bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dealing with hotel customer stealing practices: a managerial perspective
Authors: Sufi Tahir , Ranga Bindu , Ranga Indu
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The incidents of hotel theft constitute a significant cause of concern for the hotel industry. Such incidents result in substantial financial implications, inventory management issues and complications in finding exact replacements. This study, therefore, investigates customer stealing practices in Indian hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured email interview was conducted with twenty-five senior hotel managers. The data were analyzed by adopting a coding technique using inductive content analysis.

Findings

The results were discussed under seven headings-extent of such stealing incidents, financial consequences of such practices, strategies to prevent such instances and, finally, how to deal with customers when caught stealing.

Research limitations/implications

This study highlighted themes related to the profile of customers involved in stealing practices, motives, consequences and strategies required to manage such customers. Future studies can focus on restaurants, airlines, airports and tourist attractions to identify strategies and best practices for preventing such practices.

Practical implications

The study's findings have tremendous potential for the hospitality industry. Dealing with customers’ stealing practices is a very sensitive issue. Furthermore, hotels bear lots of expenses if the policy for tackling the problem still needs to be implemented. Furthermore, if not handled professionally, a lack of effective guidelines can cause embarrassment for managers.

Social implications

The study has the potential to raise awareness among the members of society to be more responsible toward hotel property.

Originality/value

This study extends to the limited literature on hotel guests' theft. The comprehensive analysis of the themes generated from an interview with the senior managers of the hotel industry provides a unique insight into the nature of the problem. The solutions offered in this study are an original contribution to the literature.
Integrity, positive psychological capital and academic performance
Authors: Chaffin T. Daniel , Luthans Brett C. , Luthans Kyle W.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In this study, the authors consider the mediating role of psychological capital (i.e. PsyCap) in the relationship between integrity and academic performance. Specifically, the authors propose that integrity is a relatively stable and distal character strength that is likely to have a minimal direct effect on academic performance. Going further, the authors argue that integrity is more likely to have an indirect effect on academic performance via the psychological resources that encompass one's PsyCap.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from a sample of 179 undergraduate business students and student grade point average (GPA) data, the authors find support for the notion that PsyCap partially mediates the relationship between integrity and academic performance.

Findings

These findings reveal the key role that PsyCap plays in translating a student's integrity toward behaviors that lead to higher levels of academic performance.

Originality/value

Prior research suggests the direct relationship between integrity and academic performance has been mixed. In this study, the authors consider how mediation may help explain this relationship. The authors believe this to be among the first empirical studies to consider integrity, PsyCap and academic performance.
A study on factors affecting the wear of steel track undercarriage
Authors: Rich Frederick A. , Shahhosseini A. Mehran , Badar M. Affan , Kluse Christopher J.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Reducing wear of undercarriage track propulsion systems used in heavy construction equipment decreases the maintenance costs and increases the equipment's life. Therefore, understanding key factors that affect the wear rate is critical. This study is an attempt to predict undercarriage wear.

Design/methodology/approach

This research analyzes a sample of track-type dozers in the eastern half of North Carolina (NC), USA. Sand percentage in the soil, precipitation level, temperature, machine model, machine weight, elevation above sea level and work type code are considered as factors influencing the wear rate. Data are comprised of 353 machines. Machine model and work code data are categorical. Sand percentage, elevation, machine weight, average temperature and average precipitation are continuous. ANOVA is used to test the hypothesis.

Findings

The study found that only sand percentage has a significant impact on the wear rate. Consequently, a regression model is developed.

Research limitations/implications

The regression model can be used to predict undercarriage wear and bushing life in soils with different sand percentages. This is demonstrated using a hypothetical scenario for a construction company.

Originality/value

This work is useful in managing maintenance intervals of undercarriage tracks and in bidding construction jobs while predicting machine operating expense for each specific job site soil makeup.
Understanding the relationship between social media use and depression: a review of the literature
Authors: Zhu Wenlong , Mou Jian , Benyoucef Morad , Kim Jongki , Hong Taeho , Chen Sihua
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This paper analyzes the existing body of work on the relationship between depression and social media use in the information system field, including the impact of social media use on depression, the effect of depression on social media use and the association and interaction between depression and social media use.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the systematic review method, this study selected the Web of Science, Emerald, Science Direct, JSTOR, Wiley Online Library and Taylor and Francis Online as search databases and ended up with 29 papers that met all the authors' requirements.

Findings

This study identified five possible reasons for the inconsistencies between the findings of the selected studies. First, uses and gratifications theory has different influence mechanisms in evaluating the relationship between social media use and depression. Second, gender can moderate the impact of social media use on depression. Third, age moderates the association between social media use and depression. Fourth, for adolescents, the time spent on social media has a critical effect on their depression. Fifth, negative personality traits (e.g. rumination, envy, etc.) can play a significant role in mediating the relationship between passive social media use and depression.

Originality/value

This study conducted an evaluation of the relationship between depression and social media use. First, the authors summarized the research framework and main body of work covering the relationship between depression and social media use. Second, the authors proposed possible explanations for the inconsistencies between the findings. Third, the authors discussed and explained the possible influence mechanisms of the existing results.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-04-2021-0211.
Decoding employee experiences during pandemic through online employee reviews: insights to organizations
Authors: Joshi Arun , Sekar Srinivasan , Das Saini
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to unearth various dimensions of employee experience (EX) and explore how pandemic impacted various EX factors using online employee reviews. The authors identify employee-discussed EX-factors and quantify the associated sentiments and importance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs Latent Dirichlet Allocation on the online employee reviews to identify the key EX-factors. The authors probe sentiments and importance associated with key EX-factors using sentiment analysis, importance analysis, regression analysis and dominance analysis.

Findings

The result of topic modeling identifies 20 EX-factors that shape overall EX. While skill development plays a major role in shaping overall EX, employees perceived Salary and Growth as the most important EX-factor and expressed negative sentiments during the pandemic. Employee sentiments significantly influence overall EX.

Practical implications

When employees have extensive change experience, managers should consider various facets of EX to manage the smooth change and deliver a better EX. This research offers key EX-factors to be considered by managers while dealing with employees. Online employee reviews websites are recommended to include the identified key EX-factors to comprehend the holistic EX.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing literature on the employee experience as a concept by identifying various EX-factors. The authors expand the extant EX scales by identifying an inclusive and updated set of EX-factors.
Better together: experiential learning in peer-led research services
Authors: Graewingholt Megan , Cornforth Jonathan , Parramore Sarah
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Implementing peer-to-peer learning models within an academic library environment presents several benefits and challenges. This study explores the effectiveness of integrating peer-assisted learning in research services and considers the impact on those providing support and those seeking assistance. A more comprehensive understanding of peer education approaches in research support services will benefit academic libraries interested in incorporating this model.

Design/methodology/approach

This article showcases case study data from the reference and instruction peer-led learning programs at California State University Fullerton's Pollak Library, incorporating library interns and student assistants trained to provide front line research support to fellow students from 2019 to 2022. Feedback was collected across the learning experience from student facilitators, patrons assisted and participating library supervisors.

Findings

Project data demonstrates that incorporating students in traditional academic library research services nurtures experiential learning and serves as an effective high-impact practice. Additionally, peer-led programs contribute to a helpful, welcoming atmosphere for library users and help connect libraries to the communities they serve.

Originality/value

Exploring survey data and student reflections, this combined study highlights advantages and implications of incorporating peer learning programs in research services in both formal and informal instruction environments. Results also reveal promising methods for recruitment, training and sustainable program development for libraries considering this approach.
Developing the relationship between corporate cultural factors and employees' organizational commitment via self-efficacy
Authors: Soomro Bahadur Ali , Zehri Abdul Wahid , Anwar Sadia , Abdelwahed Nadia A. Abdelmegeed , Shah Naimatullah
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In this study, the researchers explored the predictive powers of corporate cultural factors and self-efficacy on Pakistan's public sector bank employees' organizational commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers designed a co-relational study based on cross-sectional data using a questionnaire to collect the data from the Pakistan public sector banks' managers, assistant managers and operational managers. Consequently, the researchers based this study's findings on the 270 valid responses to the questionnaire.

Findings

This study's findings reveal that, except for teamwork, together with self-efficacy, the corporate cultural factors comprising organizational communication, training and development and reward and recognition have positive and significant impacts on organizational commitment. More specifically, self-efficacy plays a mediating role in terms of the relationships between organizational commitment and organizational communication, training and development and reward and recognition.

Practical implications

From establishing the most relevant corporate cultural factors, the researchers consider that this study's findings are helpful to policymakers and organizations in developing organizational commitment among employees. More practically in the case of Pakistan's public sector banks, the employees can improve employees' performance by recognizing the significance of the corporate cultural factors on employees' organizational commitment. In addition, the researchers consider that this study's findings can improve managerial efficiency which, in turn, can lead to the organizations becoming more successful.

Originality/value

In the context of Pakistan's public sector banks, this study's findings provide empirical insights to the relationships between the corporate cultural factors and organizational commitment. In addition, the findings provide insights to the role played by self-efficacy in mediating these relationships.
Christian Socialist Kim Chang‐joon's Path to Liberation and the Reunification of Korea
Authors: Seong Shinhyung
Published: February 2023

This paper examines the life of Christian Socialist Kim Chang‐joon and explores the themes of independence, liberation, reunification, and peace between both Koreas. It divides Kim's life into four stages: his participation in the March First Movement, his involvement in Christian socialism, his practice of social thought in Manchuria, and his activities toward reunifying the two Koreas after liberation from Japanese colonial rule. In the first phase, Kim became an active nationalist. His national consciousness developed into Christian socialism through his pastoral work. When he experienced Japanese colonial oppression while working with this ministry, he abandoned religious life and focused on socio‐political activism in Manchuria. He founded the Christian Democratic Alliance and participated in the Democratic National Front to reunite the two Koreas after liberation. This article demonstrates how Kim set an example for how churches and Christians can strive for and attain liberation, reunification, and peace in the Korean context.
HiMAP2: Identifying phylogenetically informative genetic markers from diverse genomic resources
Authors: Vernygora Oksana V. , Congrains Carlos , Geib Scott M. , Dupuis Julian R.
Published: February 2023

Multiplexed amplicon sequencing offers a cost‐effective and rapid solution for phylogenomic studies that include a large number of individuals. Selecting informative genetic markers is a critical initial step in designing such multiplexed amplicon panels, but screening various genomic data and selecting markers that are informative for the question at hand can be laborious. Here, we present a flexible and user‐friendly tool, HiMAP2, for identifying, visualizing and filtering phylogenetically informative loci from diverse genomic and transcriptomic resources. This bioinformatics pipeline includes orthology prediction, exon extraction and filtering of aligned exon sequences according to user‐defined specifications. Additionally, HiMAP2 facilitates exploration of the final filtered exons by incorporating phylogenetic inference of individual exon trees with raxml‐ng as well as the estimation of a species tree using astral. Finally, results of the marker selection can be visualized and refined with an interactive Bokeh application that can be used to generate publication‐quality figures. Source code and user instructions for HiMAP2 are available at https://github.com/popphylotools/HiMAP_v2.
Study protocol of KeyPemls‐004: A phase 2 study of pembrolizumab in combination with plinabulin and docetaxel in previously treated patients with metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer and progressive disease (PD) after immunotherapy (PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitor) alone or in combination with platinum‐doublet chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Jia , Chen Minjiang , Gao Xiaoxing , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhao Jing , Pan Ruili , Zhong Wei , Xu Yan , Wang Mengzhao
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐based treatment regimens have become the standard of care for first‐line treatment of metastatic epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) wild‐type non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nevertheless, most patients inevitably develop disease progression, and the mechanisms of resistance to first‐line immunotherapy are not clear. ICIs in combination with agents targeting other pathways may serve as second‐line therapy options. Plinabulin is a selective immunomodulating microtubule‐binding agent which inhibits the polymerization of tubulin monomers, with multiple mechanisms to inhibit tumor growth. Clinical studies have demonstrated preliminary the antitumor efficacy of this agent. Therefore, we hypothesize that a combination of plinabulin with programmed death 1 (PD‐1) inhibitor and docetaxel may result in higher efficacy and fewer side effects leading to better tolerance.

Methods

In this investigator‐initiated, single‐arm, open‐label, phase II trial, metastatic NSCLC patients who acquired resistance to first‐line immunotherapy‐based therapy will be enrolled. Participants will receive pembrolizumab 200 mg D1, plinabulin 30 mg/m2 D1 and D8, and docetaxel 75 mg/m2 D1 intravenously for a 21‐day cycle. The study intervention will be given until disease progression, intolerable toxicity, informed consent withdrawal or investigator decision. The primary endpoint is investigator‐based objective response rate per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1. The secondary endpoints are progression‐free survival, overall survival, duration of response, and safety.

Discussion

This trial will provide evidence of the benefit and safety of pembrolizumab in combination with plinabulin and docetaxel in metastatic NSCLC patients who have been exposed and developed resistance to first‐line PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitor either as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy.
Irritant potential of different washing procedures used for heavy‐duty soiling: Short and intense or longer and mild?
Authors: Gina Michal , Wichert Katharina , Pieper Birgit , Behrens Thomas , Brüning Thomas , Fartasch Manigé
Published: February 2023

Background

To prevent irritant contact eczema even in occupational fields with heavy‐duty soiling, it is generally recommended to use ‘mild’ hand cleansers (mild detergent without grits, MC). On the other hand, since grit‐containing cleansers (GC) show a higher washing power that minimizes washing time, their usage is generally preferred in specific occupational fields.

Objectives

To compare whether a shorter, intense washing period might cause less skin damage than a longer washing period with an MC.

Methods

Differences in cleaning time were first verified in a pilot study using standardized model dirt. In the main study, the forearms of 35 healthy volunteers were washed with three standardized procedures over a period of 3 days, either using 2 min of MC with/without hand brush or 1‐min GC. Clinical scoring, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), corneometry, colourimetry and scaliness/roughness (Visioscan) were used to evaluate the epidermal barrier, topography and irritation.

Results

The pre‐study showed that washing time doubled when using MC vs. GC. Using GC resulted in stronger barrier disruption, even after a shorter washing period – median ΔT4–T1 TEWL 0.96 g/m2/h vs. 4.91 g/m2/h respectively, p < 0.0001. The most harmful procedure for the skin was the additional application of a hand brush (18.86 g/m2/h).

Conclusions

Short‐time washing with GC damages the skin barrier more significantly in comparison to a longer application of an MC. When washing with MC, the strongest irritant reaction occurred when accompanied with hand brushing.
Applying skin protective cream and the wearing of gloves?—A randomized controlled experimental study
Authors: Gina Michal , Wichert Katharina , Kutz Gerald , Brüning Thomas , Fartasch Manigé
Published: February 2023

Background

Glove occlusion might enhance skin sensitivity to a subsequent detergent challenge (occlusion effect). Thus, some skin protection creams (PC) claim to protect against this effect of occlusion, and are recommended to be used before wearing liquid‐proof gloves.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of PC applied prior to glove occlusion on the ‘occlusion effect’—refers to increased susceptibility of the skin to a model detergent.

Methods

One hundred and eleven volunteers were enrolled in a single‐blind, randomized study. Seven PCs were applied before glove occlusion over 7 days (D1–D7). After sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) challenge, we compared the irritation between the areas treated with PC and occlusion alone. Clinical scoring and bioengineering methods (capacitance, transepidermal water loss [TEWL], and colourimetry [erythema]) were used to quantify the irritant reactions.

Results

After 1 week of occlusion and PC application, we did not observe significant changes in TEWL, nor in erythema, whereas skin hydration raised in three cream‐treated areas. On day 10, after a challenge with SLS, some products significantly aggravated the skin irritation as compared to occlusion alone.

Conclusions

The ‘occlusion effect’—shown as higher skin susceptibility to a model detergent—was not mitigated by PCs when applied prior to glove occlusion. On the contrary, some PCs might have negative effects on skin barrier function and augment such sensitivity.
Surgical techniques for mesenteric lengthening in ileoanal pouch surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Zwakman Marije , Hentzen Judith E. K. R. , Jonker Jara E. , Krikke Christina , Lange Johan F. M. , Hofker Sijbrand H. S.
Published: February 2023

Aim

The key to successful construction of an ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) following proctocolectomy in patients with ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis is the ability of the pouch reservoir to reach the anus well vascularized and without tension. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of previously described different surgical lengthening techniques to achieve adequate length for a tension‐free IPAA.

Method

Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched. Two reviewers conducted a systematic search with combinations of keywords for the surgical procedure and surgical lengthening techniques. All publications that reported one or more surgical lengthening techniques during IPAA surgery in adult patients were selected, consisting of reviews, cohort studies, case reports, human cadaver studies and expert opinions. The primary outcomes measured were the different surgical lengthening techniques and the step‐by‐step approach they involve that can be used during surgery to achieve adequate length for an IPAA.

Results

Of 1577 records reviewed, 19 articles were included in this systematic review describing at least 1181 patients (i.e. one review, four retrospective studies, five human cadaver studies, two case reports and seven expert opinions). A total of six different surgical lengthening techniques with various subtechniques were found and described, consisting of pouch folding, construction of different types of pouches, stepladder incisions, skeletonization of vessels, division and ligation of mesenteric vessels and using an interposition vein graft. No prospective or randomized controlled trials were performed regarding this topic. Quality assessment showed a medium quality of the included studies.

Conclusion

Different surgical lengthening techniques are described in a step‐by‐step approach to create adequate mesenteric length during IPAA surgery, in patients in whom the ileal pouch cannot reach the dentate line.
Is early bowel resection better than medical therapy for ileocolonic Crohn's disease? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Husnoo Nilofer , Gana Tabitha , Hague Adam Gary , Khan Zarnigar , Morgan Jenna L. , Wyld Lynda , Brown Steven R.
Published: February 2023

Aim

There is emerging evidence supporting early bowel resection (EBR) for ileocaecal Crohn's disease (CD) as an alternative to conventional escalation of medical therapy (MT). Here, we present a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies comparing the outcomes of EBR with those of MT in ileocolonic CD, with a focus on ileocaecal disease.

Methodology

The MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for studies reporting the outcomes of EBR versus MT for ileocolonic CD. The Cochrane tools for assessment of risk of bias were used to assess the methodological quality of studies.

Results

Nine records (from 8 studies, with a total of 1867 patients) were included in the analysis. Six studies were observational and two were randomised controlled trials. There was a reduced need for drug therapy in the EBR arm. The rate of intestinal resection at 5 years was 7.8% in the EBR arm and 25.4% in the MT group with a pooled OR of 0.32 (95% CI 0.19, 0.54; p < 0.0001). The EBR group had a longer resection‐free survival (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.38, 0.83; p = 0.004). These outcomes were consistent in a subgroup analysis of patients with ileocaecal disease. Morbidity and quality of life scores were similar across the two groups.

Conclusion

EBR is associated with a more stable remission compared to initial MT for ileocolonic Crohn's disease. There is enough evidence to support EBR as an alternative to escalation of MT in selected patients with limited ileocaecal disease.
Cognitive behavioral therapies for individuals with cerebral palsy: A scoping review
Authors: Silberg Tamar , Kapil Nisha , Caven Isabelle , Levac Danielle , Fehlings Darcy
Published: February 2023

Aim

To synthesize the evidence about the main intervention characteristics of cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) for individuals with cerebral palsy and identify barriers and facilitators to their success, focusing on aspects of feasibility and markers of success.

Method

A scoping review methodology informed a literature search for papers published between 1991 and 2021. Articles were screened, reviewed, and categorized using the DistillerSR systematic review software, and critically appraised for quantitative and/or qualitative criteria.

Results

Out of 1265 publications identified, 14 met the inclusion criteria. Elements associated with the specific study participant characteristics (46% female; aged 6–65 years), type of CBT techniques used (third‐wave [n = 6], cognitive [n = 3], cognitive and behavioral [n = 2], biofeedback training [n = 2]), and features of the study context and methodological quality (two randomized clinical trials and small sample sizes [n ≤ 12]), were identified. Most studies had psychological targets of intervention (n = 10) and secondary physiological (n = 3) or social (n = 2) objectives. Feasibility indicators were described in nearly one‐third of the papers.

Interpretation

This study highlights the high flexibility within CBT interventions, enabling their adaptation for individuals with cerebral palsy. However, relatively little, and only low‐certainty evidence was identified. More high‐quality research in terms of specific CBT techniques, optimal treatment doses, and detailed population characteristics are needed.
Preventing and protesting workplace sexual harassment: Women agro‐processing workers in Bangladesh
Authors: Sultan Maheen
Published: February 2023

Motivation

Sexual harassment of women in the workplace is considered to be one of the reasons holding back women from entering work and a major reason for women dropping out of work in Bangladesh. However, paid work is an important pathway to empowerment. To enable and sustain women's entry into the formal sectors of the economy, it is important to understand their voice and agency in preventing workplace sexual harassment and from the obstacles they face in doing so.

Purpose

The article explores how language and social and gender norms constrain young women's voice and agency in response to sexual harassment. Our research asked how language, gender norms, and informality in work arrangements influence young women's voice and agency in response to sexual harassment at work.

Methods and approach

Based on case studies with factory workers in agro‐processing firms in the outskirts of the capital, Dhaka, 21 in‐depth interviews were carried out, supplemented by participatory techniques of gender safety audits and body mapping.

Findings

I show the informal nature of formal workspaces and the failure of formal institutions which create precarity for the women working there. Young women's experiences, perceptions, and articulation of sexual harassment and attempts at prevention or redress are determined by gender norms and how these norms influence the factory workspace and interactions with others in that space. I argue that sexual harassment is normalized, formal complaints mechanisms do not work, and so informal means aligned with social norms may be the only option available.

Policy implications

The policy implications of the research include the need to recognize the informal mechanisms being used and the importance of developing a common language that will allow the “victims” to speak openly about their experiences and make complaints, increasing access to and confidence in formal complaints mechanisms and developing young women's civic and political capacities to protest harassment and seek redress.
Can We Bridge The Divide? Right‐Wing Memes as Political Education
Authors: Keehn Gabriel
Published: February 2023

Many on the contemporary Left assume that the Right has irrevocably taken control of cyberspace. Many believe that the terrain of online memetic discourse, from 4chan to Russian interference in the 2016 election via social media, is now the domain of trolls, fascists, and neo‐Nazis. In this article, Gabriel Keehn argues against that assumption, tracing the ways in which the Right won the meme war and arguing for the educative and liberatory potential of a left counteroffensive in this still contested space.
Erythrocytosis, thrombocytosis, and rate of recurrent thromboembolic event—A population based cohort study
Authors: Larsson Anneli Enblom , Andréasson Björn , Holmberg Henrik , Liljeholm Maria , Själander Anders
Published: February 2023

Introduction

The management to reduce risk of thromboembolic complications in polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia are well established, but for other conditions with elevated hemoglobin, hematocrit, or platelets there are no consensus regarding treatment and follow up.

Aims

To assess frequency of elevated blood values in patients with thromboembolic event, how many of these should be investigated further regarding myeloproliferative neoplasm and if the risk of recurrent event is depending on underlying condition.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 3931 adult patients in the county of Norrbotten, Sweden, with thromboembolism during 2017 and 2018.

Results

Of the 3931 patients, 1195 had either elevated Hb, HCT, or platelets fulfilling the 2016 revised WHO criteria for PV and ET, and out of these 411 should be evaluated regarding underlying myeloproliferative neoplasms. Unexplained thrombocytosis and secondary erythrocytosis were associated with the highest rate of recurrent event as well as the most inferior restricted mean survival time.

Conclusion

Elevated blood values are common in patients with thromboembolic event and the high risk of recurrent event and inferior restricted mean survival time in patients with unexplained thrombocytosis and secondary erythrocytosis implicates the importance of finding and managing the underlying condition.
Association between proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 and subclinical cerebrovascular disease in the community
Authors: Kunimura Ayako , Yano Yuichiro , Hisamatsu Takashi , Torii Sayuki , Kondo Keiko , Kadota Aya , Fujiyoshi Akira , Okamura Tomonori , Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Shiino Akihiko , Nozaki Kazuhiko , Ueshima Hirotsugu , Miura Katsuyuki ,   the SESSA research group
Published: February 2023

Background and purpose

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a new target for reducing low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and incident cardiovascular disease, including stroke. However, the clinical relevance of circulating PCSK9 levels has been poorly elucidated in the general population, particularly in association with subclinical cerebrovascular disease including cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) and intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS).

Methods

In community‐dwelling Japanese men (n = 526) aged 46–82 years without a history of cardiovascular disease, the associations of serum PCSK9 levels with the prevalence of CSVD and ICAS were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. CSVD included lacunar infarction, deep and subcortical white matter hyperintensity, periventricular hyperintensity and cerebral microbleeds.

Results

The median (interquartile range) age at baseline and serum PCSK9 levels were 69 (63–74) years and 240 (205–291) ng/ml, respectively. After adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors including low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, multivariable Poisson regression with robust error variance revealed a significant association between PCSK9 levels (per 1 SD) and ICAS (relative risks 1.18, 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.37). Multivariable ordinal logistic regression for ICAS, with stenosis graded as mild (<50%) or moderate–severe (≥50%), revealed a similar association (common odds ratio 1.31, 95% confidence interval 1.04–1.64). However, no significant association was observed between serum PCSK9 levels and CSVD.

Conclusions

Higher circulating PCSK9 levels were independently associated with an ICAS prevalence but not with CSVD prevalence. The quantification of circulating PCSK9 levels may help to identify individuals at high risk for cerebrovascular disease in the general population.
Poetics and panic
Authors: Stromberg Peter G.
Published: February 2023

Authors in the pragmatic and phenomenological traditions offer several distinct but overlapping theories of meaning. Drawing on a number of these theories, I analyze the speech of a panic sufferer, as he recounts an attack of panic and as he has one, in order to contrast the enactment of meaning with its paralysis. This material offers an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the construction of self as it arises out of the interaction between a human being and their cultural environment.
Magnetic susceptibility, mineral chemistry, and geothermobarometry of granitoids from Lohit Plutonic Complex, Arunachal Trans‐Himalaya, Northeast India: Implications on emplacement and crystallization conditions of oxidized calc alkaline magmatic arc system
Authors: Meyase Diezeneino , Rino Vikoleno , Kumar Santosh , Nagi Rokozono
Published: February 2023

The Lohit Plutonic Complex (LPC) of Arunachal Trans‐Himalaya represents the northeast extension of Trans‐Himalayan magmatic arc system located in the north of Indus Tsangpo Suture Zone (ITSZ). Field relation, magnetic susceptibility (MS), and phase petrology on the granitoids of LPC was conducted in order to assess the granite series (magnetite, oxidized vs. ilmenite, reduced types), and physico‐chemical conditions of the LPC granitoid magmas. The studied granitoids are well‐exposed in the Dibang and Lohit valleys, and their MS values indicate a bi‐modal patterns corresponding to ilmenite (reduced) series (71%) and magnetite (oxidized) series (29%) granites. The variation of MS in the LPC granitoids is related to the alteration of ferromagnetic minerals, and later tectonic and deformational processes that acted upon them. The amphiboles from the LPC granitoids are calcic (CaB >1.5, Si = 6.30–7.06 apfu) and exhibit tschermak substitutions typical to their evolution in a calc alkaline, metaluminous (I‐type) felsic magmas. Al‐in‐hornblende rims estimate the emplacement of quartz diorite and granodiorite magmas at shallow (~5 km) and mid (~16 km) crustal depths. Geothermometric results point to a regime of magmatic crystallization (940–837°C for quartz diorite; 882–829°C for granodiorite) sufficiently above the solidus of respective melts. Biotites from LPC granitoids are primary to re‐equilibrated, and transitional between magnesio‐ and ferri‐biotites. Quartz diorite and granodiorite biotites evolved under oxidizing magmas (log ƒO2−14 to log ƒO2−13) in a temperature range of ~750–950°C, typical to their formation in a calc alkaline magma of subduction zone environment. However, the biotites from leucogranite appear to have evolved under a mildly reducing magma environment, most likely attained in a collisional setting. The obtained results suggest that the oxidized nature of calc alkaline, subduction‐related magmatic arc rocks of the LPC is largely modified and reduced by post‐magmatic, and later tectonothermal and deformational events that operated during Himalayan and Trans‐Himalayan orogenesis.
Dual blockages of a broad and potent neutralizing IgM antibody targeting GH loop of EV‐As
Authors: Zhu Wenbing , Li Jun , Wu Zhongxiang , Li Hui , Zhang Zhixiao , Zhu Xiaoyong , Sun Ming , Dong Shaozhong
Published: February 2023

The reported enterovirus A 71 (EVA71) vaccines and immunoglobin G (IgG) antibodies have no cross‐antiviral efficacy against other enterovirus A (EV‐A) which caused hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Here we constructed an IgM antibody (20‐IgM) based on our previous discovery to address the resistance encountered by IgG‐based immunotherapy. Although binding to the same conserved neutralizing epitope within the GH loop of EV‐As VP1, the antiviral breath and potency of 20‐IgM are still higher than its parental 20‐IgG1. The 20‐IgM blocks the interaction between the EV‐As and its receptors, scavenger receptor class B, member 2 (SCARB2) and Kringle‐containing transmembrane protein 1(KREMEN1) of the host cell. The 20‐IgM also neutralizes the EV‐As at the post‐attachment stages, including postattachment neutralization, uncoating and RNA release inhibition after internalization. Mechanistically, the dual blockage effect of 20‐IgM is dependent on both a conserved site targeting and high affinity binding. Meanwhile, 20‐IgM provides cross‐antiviral efficacy in EV‐As orally infected neonatal ICR mice. Collectively, 20‐IgM and its property exhibit excellent antiviral activity with a dual‐blockage inhibitory effect at both the pre‐ and post‐attachment stages. The finding enhances our understanding of IgM‐mediated immunity and highlights the potential of IgM subtype antibodies against enterovirus infections.
A meta‐analysis examined the effect of topical nursing application of antimicrobial as a prophylaxis for the stoppage of surgical wound infection in colorectal surgery
Authors: Wang Xue , Fu Liming , Guo Shaoning , Fang Xuedong
Published: February 2023

To assess the impact of topical antimicrobial (TA) as a prophylaxis for the stoppage of surgical wound infection (SWI) in colorectal surgery (CS), we lead a meta‐analysis. 9160 participants with CS were enrolled in the chosen studies; 4719 of them used TA, while 4441 served as controls. To assess the effectiveness of TA application in lowering SWIs following CS, odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed with a dichotomous technique with a fixed‐ or random‐effect model. Significantly lower SWIs post CS for TA as whole (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.38–0.64; P < .001), gentamicin collagen sponge and beads (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.32–0.86; P = .01), triclosan impregnated fascial suture (OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.38–0.84; P = .005), antibiotic powder, ointment, lavage, or injection for the abdominal wound (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.21–0.59; P < .001), and ionised silver dressing on the closed abdominal wound (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.27–0.77; P = .003) compared to control. Significantly lower SWIs post CS for TA as a whole, gentamicin collagen sponge and beads, triclosan impregnated fascial sutures, antibiotic powder, ointment, lavage, or injection for the abdominal wound, and ionised silver dressing on the closed abdominal wound compared with control. The low sample size of 8 out of the 39 included studies in this meta‐analysis calls for precaution when analysing the outcomes.
A critical review of the role of ettringite in binders composed of CAC–PC–C$ and CSA–PC–C$
Authors: Noor Lamiya , Tuinukuafe Atolo , Ideker Jason H.
Published: February 2023

Ettringite‐accelerated binders composed of CAC–PC–C$ (calcium aluminate cement–Portland cement–calcium sulfate) and CSA–PC–C$ (calcium sulfoaluminate cement–Portland cement–calcium sulfate) have been used widely for indoor applications, such as self‐leveling floor screeds, underlayment, and tile adhesives owing to their rapid setting, early strength gain, and shrinkage compensation properties. These properties also make these binders appealing candidates for outdoor rapid repair (e.g., highways, bridge decks, and airfield pavements). However, a central question remains: Does ettringite remain stable in outdoor exposure conditions? If so, which factors will contribute positively/negatively to the long‐term stability of ettringite in these systems? To address these questions, this critical review presents the current state of knowledge regarding the hydration of ternary binders composed of CAC–PC–C$ and CSA–PC–C$ with respect to ettringite formation and the factors affecting the stability of ettringite thereafter. The purpose of this review paper is to synthesize and analyze current research regarding conditions that promote or deter ettringite stability, establish what information is missing, unclear, or contradictory, and identify remaining research needs to address the identified knowledge gaps.
Change in Cutibacterium acnes phylotype abundance and improvement of clinical parameters using a new dermocosmetic product containing Myrtus communis and Celastrol enriched plant cell culture extracts in patients with acne vulgaris
Authors: Mias Céline , Thouvenin Marie Dominique , Gravier Eleonore , Dalmon Sandrine , Bouyer Karine , Alvarez Sandrine , Mengeaud Valerie , Ribet Virginie , Bessou‐Touya Sandrine , Duplan Hélène
Published: February 2023

Background

Acne is a multifactorial chronic inflammatory disease of the pilosebaceous unit, where Cutibacterium acnes plays a main role. Recent papers demonstrated that specific C. acnes phylotypes were correlated with the severity of inflammatory acne and reported a specific loss of C. acnes phylotype diversity in this context.

Objectives

The aim of this exploratory study was to evaluate the efficacy of a new dermocosmetic product containing Myrtus communis and Celastrol‐enriched plant cell culture extracts on C. acnes phylotype abundance and clinical parameters in subjects with mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

Methods

Cutibacterium acnes phylotype diversity was evaluated by single‐locus sequence typing sequencing on the nonlesional areas of the forehead, that is, areas excluding inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) on day 1 (D1) and after 56 days (D57) of twice daily application of the dermocosmetic product on the whole face. Clinical efficacy on acne was also assessed by acne lesion counting and Global Evaluation Acne (GEA) score on D1 and D57.

Results

Our study confirmed the link between the presence of some C. acnes phylotypes and acne severity. The dermocosmetic cream was linked to a positive impact on C. acnes phylotypes: a significant decrease in pro‐pathogen phylotype IC and increase in nonpathogen phylotype IB were observed in the nonlesional areas of acne on D57 compared to D1. In parallel, the clinical results showed a significant decrease in inflammatory and comedonal acne lesions and a significant improvement in the acne severity according to the GEA score.

Conclusions

This study showed that the application of a new dermocosmetic product containing M. communis and Celastrol‐enriched plant cell culture extracts was linked to a change in the C. acnes phylotype abundance and an improvement in acne severity.
Development of a PCR assay for the specific identification of the fish pathogen Tenacibaculum piscium
Authors: Saldarriaga‐Córdoba Mónica , Araya‐León Henry , Irgang Rute , Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben
Published: February 2023

Tenacibaculosis is an emerging disease that severely affects salmonid farming in Chile, producing high mortalities and causing great economic losses. This work describes a novel PCR assay for the specific detection of Tenacibaculum piscium, a species recently described and identified in tenacibaculosis outbreaks in Norway and Chile. The designed primers amplified a 678‐bp fragment of the peptidase gene (peptidase M23 family) from T. piscium. This method is specific for T. piscium; no other chromosomal DNA amplification products were obtained for other Tenacibaculum species. In pure cultures, the PCR assay detected up to 500 pg of DNA, or the equivalent of 2.44 ± 0.06 × 104 CFU/ml. For seeded fish samples (i.e., gills, liver, kidney, and mucus), the sensitivity limit was 4.88 ± 0.11 × 106 CFU/g, sufficient to detect T. piscium in acute infections in fish. Notably, this sensitivity level was 100‐fold lower for DNA extracted from mucus samples. As compared to other existing methodologies (e.g., gene sequencing), the PCR approach described in this work allowed for the easiest detection of T. piscium in mucus samples obtained from challenged fish, an important outcome considering that the identification of this bacterium is difficult. Our results indicate that the designed specific primers and PCR method provide a rapid and specific diagnosis of T. piscium.
A comprehensive review on the application of ultrasound for the preservation of fruits and vegetables
Authors: Ahmad Faizan , Mohammad Zahra H. , Zaidi Sadaf , Ibrahim Salam A.
Published: February 2023

Ultrasound technology is a green and environment‐friendly technology that rarely causes thermal damage to food products. In this review, we present an overview of the application of ultrasound technology for the dehydration of food products, including pre‐treatments such as ultrasound, osmotic dehydration, and ultrasound‐assisted osmotic dehydration. Dehydration promotes the preservation of food products and increases the shelf life of the food products by reducing water activity. In addition, the ultrasound‐assisted drying of food products is highlighted. The influence of ultrasound and ultrasound‐assisted osmotic dehydration parameters on drying kinetics and food quality is also discussed. The application of pre‐treatments enhances the mass transfer rate, increases the drying rate and drying efficiency, reduces drying time, and helps to retain food properties such as texture and nutrition value. Generally, ultrasound and osmotic dehydration application decreases water activity, increases rehydration ability, improves product color, and reduces nutrient losses. To conclude, we have discussed the use of ultrasound applications for improving the quality and safety of produce before and after the drying process.