bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher levels of neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio predict increased mortality risk in patients with liver cirrhosis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Du Xiaofei , Wei Xinhuan , Ma Lixia , Liu Xiaohui , Guo Haiqing , Liu Yali , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2022

Background

Recent studies indicated that the neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) was a predictor of mortality in several diseases. There has been no evidence to prove the predictive function of NPAR in patients with liver cirrhosis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between NPAR and clinical outcomes in cirrhotic patients.

Methods

We retrospectively recruited hospitalized decompensated cirrhotic patients from the tertiary grade-A hospital. Patients with malignancy or severe cardiac, respiratory and kidney diseases were excluded. Demographical data, liver functions, complications and outcomes of cirrhosis were recorded. NPAR was calculated through the ratio of neutrophil percentage (%)/serum albumin concentration (g/dL) at admission to the hospital. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to evaluate the prognostic values of NPAR, and subgroup analyses were utilized to ensure stable results.

Results

A total of 376 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis at baseline were enrolled. The liver dysfunction, cirrhosis-related complications and mortality rate increased along with the tertiles of NPAR. In multivariate analysis, higher NPARs were independently associated with increased risk of mortality in patients with liver cirrhosis after adjustments for confounding factors (tertile 3 versus tertile 1: adjusted HR = 1.92; 95% CI, 1.04–3.56; P trend =  0.008) and each unit increase of NPAR implicated a 4% increase risk of mortality. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no significant interactions in most subgroups.

Conclusion

Increased NPAR was independently correlated with a higher risk of mortality in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Telomere Length of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells is Associated with Discharge Disposition in Older Trauma Patients
Authors: Goswami Julie , MacArthur Taleen A. , Ramachandran Dhanya , Mahony Cillian , Howick Annelise S. , Price-Troska Tammy , Thompson Riley J. , Spears Grant M. , Bailey Kent R. , Patnaik Mrinal S. , Passos Joao F. , Park Myung S. , Ferrer Alejandro
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Little is known regarding peripheral blood mononuclear cell telomere length (PBMC-TL) and response to traumatic injury. The objective of this study was to characterize the role of PBMC-TL in coagulation and clinical outcomes after injury.

Methods

Plasma and buffy coats were prospectively collected from trauma patients and healthy volunteers. DNA was purified and PBMC-TL quantified by qPCR. Thrombin generation kinetics were expressed as lag time (LT, minutes), peak height (PH, nM), time to peak (ttPeak, min), and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP, nM*min). Results in median and quartiles [Q1, Q3]. Wilcoxon rank sum testing; p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

Forty-two younger patients (21 [20, 22] years, 69% male) and 39 older patients (62 [61, 64] years, 79% male) were included. There was no significant difference in Clinical Frailty Scores between groups. Younger patients had longer total PBMC-TL (0.40 Mb [0.30, 0.49] vs. 0.29 Mb [0.23, 0.33], p < 0.001) and longer average PBMC-TL per chromosome (4.3 kb [3.3, 5.3] vs. 3.2 kb [2.5, 3.7], p < 0.001). When older patients were stratified by 50th percentile of PBMC-TL, there were no differences in thrombin generation; however, those with shorter telomeres were less likely to be discharged home (29% vs. 77%, p = 0.004). Older patients in the bottom quartile of PBMC-TL had shorter LT (2.78 min [2.33, 3.00] vs. 3.33 min [3.24, 3.89], p = 0.030) and were less likely to be discharged home (22% vs. 90%, p = 0.006) than those in the top quartile of PBMC-TL. Multivariable logistic regression models revealed both increased age and shorter PBMC-TL to be independent predictors of discharge disposition other than home.

Conclusion

In older trauma patients, shorter PBMC-TL is associated with accelerated initiation of thrombin generation and lower likelihood of being discharged to home.
Hematological malignancies as disorders negatively impacting specificities of the direct agglutination and rapid rK39 strip tests as reference diagnostics for visceral leishmanisis
Authors: Nail Abd Elsalam , Ahmed Ikram , Ali Osman Hussam , el Harith Abdallah
Published: November 2022

AbstractIntroduction: During several years of work in Sudan, we occasionally had been confronted with patients who presented clinical features highly suggestive of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) however direct agglutination test (DAT) readings that were either at the high negative or low positive titre range. Inquiries on the fate of those particular patients revealed mortality, undetermined diagnosis or that in some of them leukemia was finally diagnosed.Gap statement: Investigate as to what extent hematological malignancies (HMs) interfere with VL diagnosis.Aim: Evaluate specificity of DAT version newly developed in this study wherein sodium dodecyle sulphate (SDS) was incorporated as a test sample denaturant in comparison with a standard reference wherein β-mercaptoethanol (β-ME) was used in test execution.Methodology:  Seventy plasma samples from patients with HMs were collected and tested in a primary DAT version (P-DAT). The results obtained were compared with those of the rK39 strip test as VL reference diagnostic. HM samples revealing titres higher than the start dilution (1:100) in P-DAT were further tested in a β-ME- and urea- modified DAT versions. The specificity of the newly developed SDS-DAT was assessed against that of β-ME-DAT and rK39 strip tests as current reference diagnostics for VL.Results: Seven out of 70 patients with HMs scored positive outcomes (titre >1:3200) in P-DAT and 4 in the reference rK39 strip test. Of the 7 that tested positive in P-DAT or 4 in the reference rK39, none reacted at titre > 1:100 in the SDS-DAT.  Significant reduction in non-specific agglutination reactions was achieved as a result in respect to the HM plasma samples (P. value < 0.05).Conclusion: To establish desired specificity for VL diagnosis in respect to HMs and subsequently minimize or avoid serious side effects due to unjustified anti-leishmanials prescription the combined application of the SDS-DAT here described and an improved version of the rK39 for confirmation is recommended. Key words: Visceral leishmaniasis; diagnosis; hematological malignancies; DAT; rK39; anti-leishmanials; SDS.
A wicking measurement approach to evaluate the protection of non-medical face mask fabrics
Authors: Anggasta Giovanni , Sahputra Iwan Halim , Aysia Debora Anne Yang
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The objective of this research is to systematically compare two methods of wicking test for evaluating the quality of the non-medical-mask fabric, i.e. its absorbency property at various conditions, using a design of experiment approach. This research also evaluates the suitability of several fabrics to be used for non-medical masks.

Design/methodology/approach

Horizontal and vertical wicking tests were selected to evaluate the absorbency property of five fabrics commonly used for the non-medical mask. The tests were performed at three temperatures and using two types of liquid. The design of experiment approach was employed to determine the relationship between the path length of liquid movement in fabric and type of test method, temperature and type of liquid.

Findings

Both vertical and horizontal wicking tests show the same order of fabrics according to their absorbency. The order is cotton twill, local cotton, Japanese cotton, Oxford and Scuba, where the first in the order has the lowest absorbency and the last has the highest absorbency. Based on the analysis of variance (ANOVA), the range of temperature and types of liquid employed in this research do not affect the path length of the liquid movement in the fabric.

Originality/value

This research proposes horizontal and vertical wicking tests as a practical tool to evaluate absorbency property of fabric for the non-medical mask. This research also presents a design of experiment approach to evaluate the effect of the test method, temperature and type of liquid on the path length of the liquid movement in the fabric.
Workload, work–life interface, stress, job satisfaction and job performance: a job demand–resource model study during COVID-19
Authors: Chowhan James , Pike Kelly
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study, using a comprehensive job demand–resources (JD-R) model, aims to explore the pressures of workload, work–life interface and subsequent impacts on employee stress and job satisfaction, with implications for employee job performance, in the context of working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional sample of employees at seven universities (n = 4,497) and structural equation path analysis regression models are used for the analyses.

Findings

The results show that a partial mediation JD-R model was supported, where job demands (such as workload and actual hours worked) and job resources (including expectations, support and job security) have relationships with work interference with personal life and personal life interference with work. These have subsequent negative path relationships with stress. Further, stress is negatively related to job satisfaction, and job satisfaction is positively related to employee job performance.

Practical implications

Potential policy implications include mitigation approaches to addressing some of the negative impacts on workers and to enhance the positive outcomes. Timely adjustments to job demands and resources can aid in sustaining balance for workers in an uncertain and fluid environmental context.

Originality/value

This study makes a contribution to knowledge by capturing sentiments on working arrangements, perceived changes and associated outcomes during a key period within the COVID-19 pandemic while being one of the rare studies to focus on a comprehensive JD-R model and a unique context of highly educated workers' transition to working from home.
Panarchy-based transformative supply chain resilience: the role of supply chain capital
Authors: Mirzabeiki Vahid , Aitken James
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explain the role of supply chain capital (SCC) in developing transformative supply chain resilience (SCRes) to cope with environmental dynamism. Through a panarchy theory lens, this paper holistically examines how supply chains and their resilience are impacted by the multilevel structure in which they are embedded.

Design/methodology/approach

Contextualised explanation-building case studies are used to examine the transformative SCRes of 10 companies. Data were collected via interviews, documents, archival records and observations.

Findings

Studying transformative SCRes leads to generating insights into the application of SCC for managing environmental dynamisms at the organisational and supply chain levels. Furthermore, the linkages between different levels of the panarchy and their impact on the change in SCC to cope with the dynamisms are identified and explained.

Research limitations/implications

This paper contributes to the new and timely paradigm of transformative SCRes by studying this phenomenon in a holistic manner (rather than a traditional reductionistic view). Through a panarchy lens, the need to examine and analyse different hierarchy levels simultaneously to interpret SCRes responses to environmental dynamism is highlighted.

Practical implications

Valuable insights are provided to practitioners in developing an understanding of structural and relational SCC and their management in the development of transformative SCRes.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first empirical studies using a multilevel social-ecological-based panarchy framework in the supply chain management context. Applying this novel approach is highly relevant and reveals several new research opportunities.
The contingent effect of supply chain strategies on the relationship between supply chain integration and operational performance in manufacturing context
Authors: El Mokadem Mohamed Y. , Khalaf Magdy A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the contingent effect of supply chain strategies on supply chain integration (SCI)-performance relationship in manufacturing organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This research hypothesized the moderation effect of agile, responsive, risk-hedging and efficient strategies on the relationship between SCI and operational performance (OP). Survey data were collected from a sample of 112 Egyptian manufacturing firms and analyzed using moderated regression analyses to test the study hypotheses.

Findings

The results provide supporting evidence that the four strategies moderate the relationship between internal integration (II) and OP. The results also indicated that agile strategy moderates the relationship between customer and supplier integration and OP. Besides, the results indicated that responsive strategy moderates the effect of customer integration (CI) on OP. Finally, the results did not provide sufficient evidence regarding the moderating effect of risk-hedging strategy on supplier integration (SI)-performance relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The nature of the surveyed sample and the use of a single informant might limit the ability to generalize the research findings outside the research context.

Practical implications

The research results provide managers of manufacturing organizations with the roadmap to maximize the benefits from their integrative efforts through emphasizing the appropriate supply chain strategy (SCS) with respect to the market demand/supply conditions.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to knowledge by empirically validating the contingent effect of SCS on the relationship between SCI and OP.
Are you competent coping with uncertainty and risk? Implications for work-applied management
Authors: Kelly Phil
Published: November 2022

Purpose

In a rapidly changing world, organisations are constantly presented with threats and opportunities and the need to be responsive and resilient. This necessitates developing risk and uncertainty management capabilities within organisations. This article aims to consider risk and uncertainty competence, knowledge, skills, attitudes and the behaviours required by contemporary managers to protect their organisations from threat and harm, whilst seizing opportunity and reward.

Design/methodology/approach

This article presents answers to three fundamental questions: (1) Do all managers (those not specialising in risk management) need to be competent in risk and uncertainty management? (2) What does risk competence mean? and (3) How can managers develop the capabilities to become risk competent? The content can be used by practicing managers or educators to develop individual and ultimately organisational risk competence.

Findings

All contemporary managers should have some degree of risk competence. Risk competence behavioural indicators and requisite risk knowledge and skills are identified and discussed.

Originality/value

This article provides a contemporary view on risk and uncertainty management competence, drawing on relevant competence frameworks and the existing risk literature.
A democratic school: Teacher reconciliation, child-centred dialogue and emergent democracy
Authors: Motherway Gillen
Published: November 2022

This article is an exploration of a democratic school where the author spent several years researching and engaging with teachers and students while investigating the practice of Philosophy for/with Children (P4C) within Irish Educate Together schools. I offer an account of how teachers in these contexts seek to reconcile and harmonise their P4C practice with their own educational and democratic outlooks. These perspectives were uncovered through a ‘lived enquiry’ study involving deep immersion in the day-to-day life of a school as a researcher and P4C practitioner. Teachers seeking to reconcile their practice with their views in this context resulted in the children in their classrooms learning through democratic processes, where democracy is not merely prescribed, but instead becomes a way of life. By drawing upon excerpts of teacher interview data from my doctoral studies, I suggest that there is a ‘rough ground’ of practice where diverse and unique perspectives can be revealed when lived, deeply immersive and sensitive approaches are taken towards practitioners and their communities. The intertwining of Educate Together and P4C philosophies of education is explored, with particular emphasis on the notion of child-centredness, dialogue and philosophical enquiry with children. Expanding on the democratic educational ideas of Biesta and Fielding, I argue that there is a deeply contextual and philosophically compelling connection between teachers engaging in P4C, the atmosphere or environment in which dialogue with children can occur and a different understanding of democracy through education that may result.
Religion's Origin: Returns to Grand Theory
Authors: Trompf Garry W.
Published: November 2022

Two recent impressive works probe religion's origins.
Blockade of endocannabinoid system by oxytocin attenuates memory deficits in oxycodone‐treated rats
Authors: Wan Yu‐Xiao , Shi Guang , Jian Ling‐Yan , Fan Xin‐Yu
Published: November 2022

Oxycodone is a highly prescribed opioid and its abuse has been rampant. Accumulating evidence shows that the cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) plays a key role in mediating rewarding effects to opioids. However, the downstream signalling of CB1R induced by oxycodone remains unclear. The neuropeptide oxytocin is well known as a potential remedy for drug addiction. Thus, our study aims to explore the mechanism of oxycodone‐induced learning and memory deficits underlying the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the effect of oxytocin. Rats were intraperitoneally injected with oxycodone once a day for eight consecutive day. Novel object recognition, resident‐intruder and Morris Water Maze tests were employed to assess the cognitive, social and spatial memory of the rats after oxycodone withdrawal. The (co‐)expression of CB1R, cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5), regulatory protein p25, tau and phosphorylated tau was measured 1 day after the last behavioural test. The histopathological staining and synaptic density in the hippocampus were observed as well. We found that oxycodone upregulated the expression of p‐GSK3β, co‐expression of p‐Cdk5 and p25 through CB1R. This finding was accompanied by elevation of pSer396, pSer404 in the tau, and reduction of the number of neurons, dendritic spines and synaptic density in the hippocampus. Furthermore, i.c.v. treatment with oxytocin ameliorates memory deficits in oxycodone‐treated rats through inhibition of the ECS. We propose further studies on the clinical use of this neuropeptide, which may potentially cure drug addiction.
Adapting the designated area of geographical indications to climate change
Authors: Henry Loïc
Published: November 2022

This paper examines the agricultural supply relocation of products under geographical indication (GI) labels as an option to adapt to climate change. I develop a stylized framework that endogenously relates the delineation of the production area of the GI product to the distribution of specific geographical characteristics and their influence on the quality of the product and the corresponding comparative advantages. The model can then study how the GI production area responds to climate‐related changes in the production conditions. The model shows that the GI production area can marginally expand as climate change worsens the production conditions, but it may disappear under more severe degradations. This opportunity to relocate current GIs hinges on striking a careful balance between mitigating climate‐induced yield losses and altering quality, but it is also threatened by political economy barriers that govern the redistribution of GI rents.
Dietary digestible carbohydrates are associated with higher prevalence of asthma in humans and with aggravated lung allergic inflammation in mice
Authors: Musiol Stephanie , Harris Carla P. , Karlina Ruth , Gostner Johanna M. , Rathkolb Birgit , Schnautz Benjamin , Schneider Evelyn , Mair Lisa , Vergara Ernesto Elorduy , Flexeder Claudia , Koletzko Sibylle , Bauer Carl‐Peter , Schikowski Tamara , Berdel Dietrich , von Berg Andrea , Herberth Gunda , Rozman Jan , Hrabe de Angelis Martin , Standl Marie , Schmidt‐Weber Carsten B. , Ussar Siegfried , Alessandrini Francesca
Published: November 2022

Background

Dietary carbohydrates and fats are intrinsically correlated within the habitual diet. We aimed to disentangle the associations of starch and sucrose from those of fat, in relation to allergic sensitization, asthma and rhinoconjuctivitis prevalence in humans, and to investigate underlying mechanisms using murine models.

Methods

Epidemiological data from participants of two German birth cohorts (age 15) were used in logistic regression analyses testing cross‐sectional associations of starch and sucrose (and their main dietary sources) with aeroallergen sensitization, asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis, adjusting for correlated fats (saturated, monounsaturated, omega‐6 and omega‐3 polyunsaturated) and other covariates. For mechanistic insights, murine models of aeroallergen‐induced allergic airway inflammation (AAI) fed with a low‐fat‐high‐sucrose or ‐high‐starch versus a high‐fat diet were used to characterize and quantify disease development. Metabolic and physiologic parameters were used to track outcomes of dietary interventions and cellular and molecular responses to monitor the development of AAI. Oxidative stress biomarkers were measured in murine sera or lung homogenates.

Results

We demonstrate a direct association of dietary sucrose with asthma prevalence in males, while starch was associated with higher asthma prevalence in females. In mice, high‐carbohydrate feeding, despite scant metabolic effects, aggravated AAI compared to high‐fat in both sexes, as displayed by humoral response, mucus hypersecretion, lung inflammatory cell infiltration and TH2‐TH17 profiles. Compared to high‐fat, high‐carbohydrate intake was associated with increased pulmonary oxidative stress, signals of metabolic switch to glycolysis and decreased systemic anti‐oxidative capacity.

Conclusion

High consumption of digestible carbohydrates is associated with an increased prevalence of asthma in humans and aggravated lung allergic inflammation in mice, involving oxidative stress‐related mechanisms.
Feather function and the evolution of birds
Authors: Terrill Ryan S. , Shultz Allison J.
Published: November 2022

The ability of feathers to perform many functions either simultaneously or at different times throughout the year or life of a bird is integral to the evolutionary history of birds. Many studies focus on single functions of feathers, but any given feather performs many functions over its lifetime. These functions necessarily interact with each other throughout the evolution and development of birds, so our knowledge of avian evolution is incomplete without understanding the multifunctionality of feathers, and how different functions may act synergistically or antagonistically during natural selection. Here, we review how feather functions interact with avian evolution, with a focus on recent technological and discovery‐based advances. By synthesising research into feather functions over hierarchical scales (pattern, arrangement, macrostructure, microstructure, nanostructure, molecules), we aim to provide a broad context for how the adaptability and multifunctionality of feathers have allowed birds to diversify into an astounding array of environments and life‐history strategies. We suggest that future research into avian evolution involving feather function should consider multiple aspects of a feather, including multiple functions, seasonal wear and renewal, and ecological or mechanical interactions. With this more holistic view, processes such as the evolution of avian coloration and flight can be understood in a broader and more nuanced context.
Influences of intratumoral heterogeneity on assessment of tumor microenvironment in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sugawara Kotaro , Fukuda Takashi , Kishimoto Yutaka , Oka Daiji , Yoshii Takako , Hara Hiroki , Uemura Yukari , Kawashima Yoshiyuki , Kanda Hiroaki , Motoi Noriko
Published: November 2022

The intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH) of the tumor microenvironment (TME) has yet to be addressed in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Here, we studied the ITH of CD8 and PD‐L1 status in ESCC, and examined the potential of the tumor surface for representing the TME. In total, 67 surgically resected clinical Stage II ESCC specimens were analyzed. The CD8‐cell density, PD‐L1 tumor proportion score (TPS), and combined positive score (CPS) were calculated in three (superficial, middle, and deep) areas of each specimen. ITH was quantified by distance‐standardized coefficient variations of the three values. The CD8 and PD‐L1 status of each area was dichotomized and tumor‐surface capabilities for predicting the entire tumor status were estimated. Variables were compared according to the presence of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). The ITH, especially PD‐L1 heterogeneity, differed markedly among specimens. The concordance rates of CD8 and PD‐L1 (CPS and TPS) status among the three different areas were 71.6%, 74.6%, and 73.1%, respectively. The sensitivity and the specificity of the tumor surface for predicting the CD8 status of the whole tumor were high, especially in the NAC− group (both 1.0). The tumor surface also showed high capabilities for representing the whole PD‐L1 status, while yielding moderate positive predictive values (0.70). The ITH degrees and predictive capabilities did not differ according to NAC. Taken together, the ITH of CD8 and PD‐L1 differed among ESCC specimens, while not being markedly affected by NAC. The use of a biopsy specimen from the tumor surface might be feasible for TME evaluation.
Adipocytokine plasma concentrations reflect influence of inflammation but not body mass index (BMI) on clinical outcomes of COVID‐19 patients: A prospective observational study from the Netherlands
Authors: de Nooijer Aline H. , Kooistra Emma J. , Grondman Inge , Janssen Nico A. F. , Joosten Leo A. B. , van de Veerdonk Frank L. , Kox Matthijs , Pickkers Peter , Netea Mihai G. ,   the RCI‐COVID‐19 study group
Published: November 2022

Obesity is recognized as a risk factor for adverse outcome in COVID‐19, but the molecular mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unknown. Adipose tissue functions as an endocrine organ by secreting multiple pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory factors, known as adipocytokines, which could be involved in COVID‐19 severity. We explored the role of adipocytokines in COVID‐19 and its association with BMI, clinical outcome, and inflammation. This is an observational study in 195 hospitalized COVID‐19 patients. Serial plasma concentrations of the adipocytokines leptin, adiponectin, resistin, and various inflammatory cytokines were assessed. Adipocytokines were compared between patients with normal weight (BMI: 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI: 25.0–29.9 kg/m2), and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), between patients admitted to the ICU and to non‐ICU clinical wards, and between survivors and non‐survivors. Patients with overweight and obesity displayed higher leptin concentrations and lower adiponectin concentrations throughout hospital admission (p < .001), whereas resistin concentrations were not different from patients with normal weight (p = .12). Resistin concentrations correlated with inflammatory markers and were persistently higher in ICU patients and non‐survivors compared to non‐ICU patients and survivors, respectively (both p < .001), whereas no such relationships were found for the other adipocytokines. In conclusion, leptin and adiponectin are associated with BMI, but not with clinical outcomes and inflammation in COVID‐19 patients. In contrast, resistin is not associated with BMI, but high concentrations are associated with worse clinical outcomes and more pronounced inflammation. Therefore, it is unlikely that BMI‐related adipocytokines or differences in the inflammatory response underlie obesity as a risk factor for severe COVID‐19.
Welfare effects of automatic‐IRAs
Authors: Cottle Hunt Erin
Published: November 2022

Several states require employers who do not offer retirement benefits to automatically enroll their employees in individual retirement accounts (IRAs). We quantify the welfare effects of this program for individuals who follow a rule‐of‐thumb to make savings decisions. We find workers who save more than 3% would be willing to give up 0%–1.4% of lifetime consumption to avoid an IRA. We also consider a fully rational model with credit frictions, stochastic income and pre‐retirement withdrawals, and costly IRA opt‐outs. We find that being enrolled in an IRA is most likely to benefit workers who do not borrow during the life‐cycle.
Seven decades of clinical experience with Wilson's disease: Report from the national reference centre in Poland
Authors: Członkowska Anna , Niewada Maciej , Litwin Tomasz , Kraiński Łukasz , Skowrońska Marta , Piechal Agnieszka , Antos Agnieszka , Misztal Monika , Khanna Ishani , Kurkowska‐Jastrzębska Iwona
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

Wilson's disease (WD) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder causing excessive copper deposition and a spectrum of manifestations, particularly neurological and hepatic symptoms. We analysed the clinical characteristics of patients with WD admitted to the country's only reference centre, which provided long‐term care to most adult patients in Poland over seven decades (pre‐1959 to 2019).

Methods

Electronic prospective data collection began in the 2000s and, for prior years, medical records were analysed retrospectively. Demographic and clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes were analysed by decade of diagnosis. Life‐years lost were estimated in patients with WD compared with the general population. Kaplan–Meier curves were used for a time‐to‐death analysis using 2000–2009 as a reference.

Results

In total, 929 patients were analysed. The number of patients increased from 21 before 1959 to 315 for 2000 to 2009 period. Mostly males were diagnosed before the 1990s, but the numbers of female patients diagnosed increased thereafter. Initially, most patients presented with neurological manifestations; however, the incidence of hepatic manifestations and asymptomatic presentations increased over time as patients were diagnosed early and consequently were more independent at diagnosis. Fewer Kayser‐Fleischer rings were detected recently. Prior to 1970, patients were treated with D‐penicillamine (DP); however, since the introduction of zinc, both therapies have been used as often. Since the 1990s, switches between DP and zinc were recorded in 6%–7% of patients. Consistent improvement in survival has been observed over the years.

Conclusions

This is the largest cohort of patients with WD reported in Poland, with the longest follow‐up. Earlier diagnosis and prognosis have improved over seven decades.
Summer drought exposure, stand structure, and soil properties jointly control the growth of European beech along a steep precipitation gradient in northern Germany
Authors: Weigel Robert , Bat‐Enerel Banzragch , Dulamsuren Choimaa , Muffler Lena , Weithmann Greta , Leuschner Christoph
Published: November 2022

Increasing exposure to climate warming‐related drought and heat threatens forest vitality in many regions on earth, with the trees' vulnerability likely depending on local climatic aridity, recent climate trends, edaphic conditions, and the drought acclimatization and adaptation of populations. Studies exploring tree species' vulnerability to climate change often have a local focus or model the species' entire distribution range, which hampers the separation of climatic and edaphic drivers of drought and heat vulnerability. We compared recent radial growth trends and the sensitivity of growth to drought and heat in central populations of a widespread and naturally dominant tree species in Europe, European beech (Fagus sylvatica), at 30 forest sites across a steep precipitation gradient (500–850 mm year−1) of short length to assess the species' adaptive potential. Size‐standardized basal area increment remained more constant during the period of accelerated warming since the early 1980s in populations with >360 mm growing season precipitation (April–September), while growth trends were negative at sites with <360 mm. Climatic drought in June appeared as the most influential climatic factor affecting radial growth, with a stronger effect at drier sites. A decadal decrease in the climatic water balance of the summer was identified as the most important factor leading to growth decline, which is amplified by higher stem densities. Inter‐annual growth variability has increased since the early 1980s, and variability is generally higher at drier and sandier sites. Similarly, within‐population growth synchrony is higher at sandier sites and has increased with a decrease in the June climatic water balance. Our results caution against predicting the drought vulnerability of trees solely from climate projections, as soil properties emerged as an important modulating factor. We conclude that beech is facing recent growth decline at drier sites in the centre of its distribution range, driven by climate change‐related climate aridification.
Doing gender equality and undoing gender inequality—A practice theory perspective
Authors: Grzelec Anna
Published: November 2022

Many of the efforts made by organizations to deal with gender inequalities fail to have the desired impact. This is not only because these efforts are undermined by individuals who disagree with them, nor because individuals do not perceive gender inequalities to be a problem. Rather, the issue is that gender equality practices may be embedded in an organizational context where other practices counteract gender equality. By means of a 17‐month‐long ethnographic study conducted at a technical university in Sweden, the interaction between gender equality practices and gender inequality practices has been identified. It is shown that gender equality practices are themselves based on either questionable assumptions (e.g., that increasing the number of women in senior roles will make a difference), or in an attempt to avoid blaming the victim, on reducing the salience of gendered categorization from which gendered inequalities can be adequately challenged. By focusing on the nexus of practices that move beyond equality work, two practices that undermine gender equality work have been identified, that is, a data‐driven approach to change work and a preference for simple solutions. The conclusion drawn alerts us to the fact that even practices that do not seem related to gender equality work can have an impact on the success or failure of the gender equality work of the organization. This in turn may imply that the institutionalized underpinnings of the organization need to be changed, for example, the belief that more data will help us to find more solutions, or that there are practices out there that can be implemented to wash away gender inequality.
Duration and characteristics of persistent headache following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Gaastra Ben , Carmichael Harry , Galea Ian , Bulters Diederik
Published: November 2022

Objective

To assess the long‐term frequency, prognosis, and phenotype of persistent headache following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).

Background

Very little is known about long‐term headache following aSAH with no studies looking beyond 3 years.

Methods

Retrospective analysis comparing aSAH cases to matched controls in the UK Biobank, a prospective cohort study. Headache frequency and phenotype were compared using group comparison tests. The relationship between headache frequency and time was assessed using correlation analysis.

Results

Headache was more frequent following aSAH (aSAH: 258/864 [29.9%] vs. controls: 666/3456 [19.3%], χ2 = 45.5, p < 0.001) at a median follow‐up of 7.5 years. Headache frequency decreased over time (RS = −0.71, p = 0.028), affecting 29/58 (50%) patients in the first year and reducing to 13/47 (28%) patients 10 years later. Headache frequency was not related to aSAH severity (z = 0.249, p = 0.803), treatment (z = 0.583, p = 0.560), or hydrocephalus (z = −1.244, p = 0.214). There was a consistently higher frequency of migrainous features following aSAH compared to controls, although this did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Persistent headache is more frequent following aSAH compared to controls in the long term and the prevalence reduces gradually over time. The increased frequency of migrainous features suggests that selected patients with post‐aSAH headache may benefit from migraine treatment.
Leadership and the fourth industrial revolution: A systematic literature review
Authors: Tetteh Edward Nartey
Published: November 2022

This paper examines research in the area of leadership and the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) by scoping literature through a systematic approach. The purpose of this study is to identify trends and gaps relating to issues addressed, theoretical and conceptual approaches, methodologies, geographical representation of research, and future research directions in the area. In all, 45 articles were sampled through a predetermined selection criteria and analysed using descriptive statistics. The results indicate that four major issues investigated in multiple sectors dominate the area. Besides, a number of theories were found to have been used in understanding the topic, while in terms of methodology, there appears to be a fair distribution of papers using qualitative and quantitative approaches but an imbalance between cross‐sectional and longitudinal designs. Again, most of the studies were conducted at the meso and micro levels and were produced in Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, Australia, and South America in that ranking order. Overall, it was realised that because of the emerging nature of the 4IR phenomenon, research work in the area is now rising, requiring further research output to address the gaps identified through this study.
Adiponectin protects skeletal muscle from ischaemia–reperfusion injury in mice through miR‐21/PI3K/Akt signalling pathway
Authors: Zhou Min , Zhang Hao , Chen Hairen , Qi Baiwen
Published: November 2022

Previous studies have confirmed that adiponectin (APN) plays a protective role in myocardial ischaemia–reperfusion (IR) injury, and the aim of this study was to investigate its effect on skeletal muscle. ELISA was used to detect the levels of Creatinine Kinase (CK), LDH, SOD and MDA in the plasma of the lower limbs of mice, and the levels of IL‐6, IL‐1β and TNF‐α in the gastrocnemius. Quantitative PCR was used to detect the expression level of miR‐21. TUNEL staining was used to detect the apoptosis of the gastrocnemius. The expression levels of apoptosis proteins, autophagy marker proteins and downstream target genes of miR‐21 in gastrocnemius were detected by Western Blot. The results of this study revealed that APN levels were significantly reduced in gastrocnemius of IR mice. The oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptosis and autophagy induced by IR were significantly ameliorated by APN injection. The above effects of APN may be achieved through miR‐21/PI3K signalling pathway, as found by interfering gene expression levels with miRNA antagomir and lentiviral injection. Taken together, our study revealed that APN protects skeletal muscle from IR injury through miR‐21 /PI3K/Akt signalling pathway through inhibiting inflammatory response, apoptosis and autophagy.
Evaluation of the effects of COVID‐19 disease and the trimester in which the disease is diagnosed on obstetric and neonatal outcomes: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sertel Emre , Demir Merve
Published: November 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effects of COVID‐19 disease and the trimester in which the disease is diagnosed on obstetric and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted with 358 patients who had or had not been diagnosed with COVID‐19 during their pregnancy, had a miscarriage or had given birth.

Results

COVID‐19 disease during pregnancy was associated with higher maternal hypertensive disease, preterm birth, low birth weight, low first‐ and fifth‐minute Apgar scores, and need for neonatal intensive care unit. The incidence of preterm birth, low birth weight, low first‐ and fifth‐minute Apgar scores, and need for neonatal intensive care unit in those diagnosed with COVID‐19 in the second trimester was significantly higher than those diagnosed with COVID‐19 in other trimesters. The frequency of cesarean section was observed most in those diagnosed with COVID‐19 in the 3rd trimester, while it was observed in those diagnosed with COVID‐19 at least in the first trimester.

Conclusion

The presence of COVID‐19 during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of iatrogenic preterm birth. The frequency of preterm birth in pregnant women diagnosed with COVID‐19 in the second trimester is higher than in pregnant women diagnosed with COVID‐19 in other trimesters. As the pregnancy trimester at the time of diagnosis progresses, the frequency of cesarean section increases. While the risk of maternal hypertensive disease increases more in pregnant women with COVID‐19, the effect of the trimester in which COVID‐19 was passed on the risk of maternal hypertensive disease is not observed.
Evening chronotype is associated with hormonal and metabolic disorders in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Barrea Luigi , Verde Ludovica , Vetrani Claudia , Docimo Annamaria , de Alteriis Giulia , Savastano Silvia , Colao Annamaria , Muscogiuri Giovanna
Published: November 2022

Despite current treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a considerable number of women with this syndrome do not reach the treatment goal, suggesting the presence of other probable misdiagnosed features of this syndrome that are not taken into account in the assessment and therefore in the therapeutical approach. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of chronotype categories in women with PCOS and their role in determining hormonal and metabolic aspects of PCOS. This observational case‐control study was conducted on 112 women with PCOS and 112 healthy women matched for age and body mass index (BMI). At baseline anthropometric parameters such as weight, height, BMI and waist circumference, clinical parameters such as Ferriman−Gallwey (FG) score, biochemical parameters such as fasting plasma glucose, insulin levels and assessment of the homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HoMA‐IR), inflammatory parameters such as C‐reactive protein (CRP) and hormonal parameters such as testosterone levels were evaluated. Women with PCOS had a lower chronotype score (p < .001) which indicates a higher prevalence of evening chronotype (EC) category (p = .037) compared to controls. After adjustment for BMI, chronotype score was significantly negatively correlated with CRP levels (r = −0.418, p < .001), testosterone levels (r = −0.543, p < .001) and FG score (r = −0.514, p < .001). Linear regression analysis showed that high testosterone levels were among the factors most associated with a lower chronotype score (p < .001), followed by BMI (p < .001) and HoMA‐IR (p < .05). In conclusion, there is a higher prevalence of EC in women with PCOS than in women without the condition, which in turn was associated with a worse hormonal and metabolic profile. These findings provide support for the relevance of including chronotype assessment in the treatment of women with PCOS.
Sink, swim, or drift: How social enterprises use supply chain social capital to balance tensions between impact and viability
Authors: Taylor Kelsey M. , Rosca Eugenia
Published: November 2022

Social enterprises seek solutions for some of society's most pressing problems through the development of commercially viable businesses. However, pursuing social impact is often at odds with financial viability, and social enterprises need to engage with a wide range of stakeholders to access tangible and intangible resources to overcome this tension. Although the current literature emphasizes the need for social capital within social enterprises' supply chain relationships, it does not consider the costs associated with the development of such capital. This article examines how social enterprises develop social capital in their supply chain relationships and how this social capital affects their ability to pursue impact and viability. Using data from in‐depth interviews with nine social enterprises, the findings indicate that the roles and positions of beneficiaries in supply chains determine the appropriate forms of social capital needed to sustain simultaneous impact and viability. The empirical insights highlight that structural and relational capital are most valuable within core supply chain relationships, whereas cognitive capital is most beneficial within peripheral relationships aimed at enhancing competitiveness. Further, social enterprises sometimes relinquish power in their supply chain relationships to prioritize impact but develop relational capital to mitigate threats of opportunism. This study advances a contingent view of social capital in cross‐sectoral supply chain relationships and provides valuable implications for managers pursuing impact.
Colonization with multidrug‐resistant organisms is associated with impaired survival of patients with surgically resected cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Kinzler Maximilian N. , Stehle Angelika , Schulze Falko , Hogardt Michael , Wichelhaus Thomas A. , Kempf Volkhard A. J. , Finkelmeier Fabian , Trojan Jörg , Zeuzem Stefan , Schnitzbauer Andreas A. , Bechstein Wolf O. , Wild Peter J. , Walter Dirk
Published: November 2022

Background & Aims

Colonization with multidrug‐resistant organisms (MDRO) has been shown to impair survival in patients with various malignancies. Despite the increasing spread of MDRO, its impact on patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is unclear. Aim of this study was to analyse the impact of MDRO‐colonization on overall prognosis in CCA patients.

Methods

All patients with surgically resected CCA diagnosed between August 2005 and November 2021 at the University Hospital Frankfurt were screened for MDRO. CCA patients with a positive MDRO screening before or within the first 90 days after diagnosis of CCA were defined as colonized. Patients with a negative MDRO screening were defined as non‐colonized.

Results

Hundred and sixty nine patients were included. 32% (n = 54) were screened MDRO positive, while 68% (115) were non‐colonized. Median overall survival (OS) for colonized patients was 17.1 months (95% CI = 9–25.2 months) compared to 50 months (95% CI = 37.1–62.8) for MDRO‐negative patients (p ≤ .001). Non‐cancer‐related mortality (p ≤ .001) and infectious‐related death (p ≤ .001) was significantly higher in the MDRO‐colonized group. In multivariate analysis, MDRO colonization (HR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.4–3.3, p = .001), ECOG 1 (HR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1.6–4, p ≤ .001) and N1 status (HR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.1–2.6, p = .017) were independent risk factors for OS.

Conclusion

MDRO‐colonization contributes to poor survival in patients with surgically resected CCA. MDRO surveillance is necessary to optimize clinical management of infections and to potentially reduce mortality in this critical population.