bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knockdown of HIPK2 Attenuates Angiotensin II–Induced Cardiac Fibrosis in Cardiac Fibroblasts
Authors: Xu Feng , Mao Bingbing , Li Yan , Zhao Yang
Published: May 2022

Homeodomain-interacting protein kinase-2 (HIPK2), a member of an evolutionary conserved family of serine/threonine kinases, has been observed to be involved in the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases. However, its role in cardiac fibrosis remains unclear. In this study, we assessed the effect of HIPK2 on cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) in response to angiotensin II (Ang II) stimulation. The results indicated that HIPK2 expression was significantly increased in Ang II–induced CFs in a dose-dependent manner. Then, HIPK2 was knocked down in CFs to evaluate the roles of HIPK2. Knockdown of HIPK2 suppressed cell proliferation and migration in Ang II–induced CFs. The Ang II–caused increase in expression of α-smooth muscle actin, a hallmark of myofibroblast differentiation, was decreased by knockdown of HIPK2. HIPK2 knockdown also reduced extracellular matrix production including type I collagen and connective tissue growth factor. Furthermore, knockdown of HIPK2 blocked the activation of TGF-β1/Smad pathway in Ang II–induced CFs. These data suggested that HIPK2 knockdown prevented the Ang II–induced activation of CFs through inhibiting TGF-β1/Smad pathway, indicating HIPK2 might be an antifibrosis target for the treatment of cardiac fibrosis.
Ifosfamide-induced Encephalopathy With Rapid Response to Thiamine: A Pediatric Case
Authors: Müngen Eren , Yaman Bajin İnci , Öz Sibel , Günbey Ceren , Anlar Banu , Aydin Burca
Published: May 2022

Ifosfamide is an important chemotherapeutic agent used in the therapeutic protocols of many malignant tumors. Central nervous system toxicity of ifosfamide manifests with encephalopathy in 10% to 30% of patients treated with ifosfamide. Thiamine and methylene blue have been reported beneficial in the treatment and prevention of ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy (IIE). We describe an episode of encephalopathy developed at the third cycle of ifosfamide treatment in a child with Ewing sarcoma. With the administration of thiamin, the encephalopathy resolved and no episode was noted during subsequent courses of ifosfamide. Previous use of cisplatin, concomitant use of opioids, low levels of serum albumin and hemoglobin, and elevated levels of serum creatinine are potential risk factors for IIE. The current case illustrates the possibility of IIE even in the absence of such additional risk factors, treated successfully with thiamin and draws attention to the need for close neurological monitorization of patients treated with ifosfamide.
Unresectable Clival Giant Cell Tumor, Tumor Control With Denosumab After Relapse: A Case Report and Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Pionelli Maria Grazia , Asaftei Sebastian D. , Tirtei Elisa , Campello Anna , Di Rosa Gianpaolo , Fagioli Franca
Published: May 2022

Giant cell tumors (GCTs) of the skull base are rare entities. Although considered histologically benign, GCTs are locally aggressive with a high rate of local recurrence. The present case describes a 14-year-old girl with a clival GCT who underwent long-term therapy with denosumab after local relapse. To our knowledge, it is the second case described with a follow-up term >2 years from the start of denosumab and who did not receive any other adjuvant treatment besides denosumab. The patient achieved a local control of the disease. According to the few available data, radical excision with adjuvant therapy helps in long-term control in uncommon sites, such as the skull. However, the definitive treatment is still controversial because of their rarity and few follow-up data. The present case highlights the benefit of denosumab and its safety as long-term therapy and contributes to the existing literature with analysis and evaluation of the management strategies and prognosis.
Use of Cabozantinib to Treat MET-amplified Pediatric Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Fukui Sadahiro , Umeda Katsutsugu , Kubota Hirohito , Iwai Atsushi , Akazawa Ryo , Isobe Kiyotaka , Tanaka Kuniaki , Kouzuki Kagehiro , Kawabata Naoko , Saida Satoshi , Kato Itaru , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Itatani Yoshiro , Funakoshi Taro , Adachi Souichi , Takita Junko
Published: May 2022

Pediatric colorectal cancer (CRC) is extremely rare, with little information about genetic profiles compared with adult CRC. Here, a 13-year-old male with advanced CRC underwent cancer gene panel testing, which detected 4 genetic abnormalities (MET amplification in addition to TP53, SMAD4, and CTNNA1 mutations) that might be associated with a poor prognosis. Based on high-level MET amplification, he received a multikinase inhibitor, cabozantinib, after failure of first-line and second-line chemotherapy, resulting in transient disease stabilization. Tailored targeted therapy based on molecular profiling can be an effective treatment strategy for rare cancers such as pediatric CRC.
The Rising Status of Phenobarbital
Authors: Hilbert Morgan T. , Henkel Nicholas D. , Spetz Samantha L. , Malaiyandi Deepa P.
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Up to 48% of patients who have had a stroke will experience poststroke delirium (PSD) that can be hyperactive, hypoactive, or mixed. Literature on treatment of the hyperactive subtype is specifically lacking. This case report describes the rapid resolution of severe refractory hyperactive PSD with phenobarbital.

Case Report:

A 58-year-old man with a left middle cerebral artery stroke presented with severe hyperactive PSD of 12 days duration, refractory to antipsychotics, alpha-2 agonists, gabapentin, therapeutic valproic acid, benzodiazepines, and ketamine infusion. An oral dose of phenobarbital 30.4 mg, followed by oral maintenance therapy was initiated on day 13 of admission with dramatic improvement. As his Richmond Agitation-Sedation score trended downwards to 0, he was able to cooperate with therapies. This allowed for discharge to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation and subsequently home 2 weeks later.

Conclusion:

Hyperactive PSD is a common complication of stroke with little evidence to guide treatment strategies. This report suggests that phenobarbital, because of its varied mechanisms of action and unique neurochemistry, may be an unrecognized potential therapy.
Adjunctive Dietary Therapy Is Associated With Improved Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Steroid-Refractory Gastrointestinal Graft-Versus-Host Disease: A Case Series
Authors: Kaenkumchorn Tanyaporn , Suskind David L. , Lee Dale , Singh Namita , Ford Madeline , Skeen Kristina , Macris Paula C. , Yeung Cecilia , Summers Corinne , Carpenter Paul A. , Zheng Hengqi B.
Published: May 2022

Acute gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease (GI GVHD) is a complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplant with high morbidity and mortality. In particular, steroid-refractory GI GVHD can be difficult to treat. Recent investigations have revealed that patients after transplant can experience intestinal dysbiosis contributing to the progression of GVHD. Modulation of the gut microbiome through dietary intake could potentially improve the intestinal dysbiosis in GI GVHD. In this case series, we present 3 patients where dietary therapy was used in conjunction with immunosuppression to achieve clinical remission of GI GVHD.
A 12-Year Review of Clinical Practice Patterns in Dupuytren Contracture Based on Continuous Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Authors: Yuksel Selcen S. , Shah Nikhil D. , Sasson Daniel C. , Kearney Aaron M. , Dzwierzynski William , Gosain Arun K.
Published: May 2022

Background:

The American Board of Plastic Surgery collects data on 20 common plastic surgery operations as part of the Continuous Certification process. The goal of this study was to describe clinical trends in Dupuytren contracture repair since 2008 as they relate to evidence-based medicine articles published in this timeframe.

Methods:

Cumulative tracer data for Dupuytren contracture were reviewed for the period from February of 2008 to March of 2020 and compared with evidence-based medicine articles published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Topics were categorized as (1) pearls, addressed in both the tracer data and evidence-based medicine articles, (2) topics only addressed in tracer data, and (3) topics only addressed in evidence-based medicine articles.

Results:

As of March of 2020, 230 cases of Dupuytren contracture had been entered. The median age at time of surgery was 65 years (range, 38 to 91 years). Practice patterns from 2008 through 2014 were compared with those between 2015 and 2020. The most common surgical technique was limited fasciectomy (62 percent of cases). Differences in practice between these time periods included decrease in the use of radical fasciectomy (34 percent versus 16 percent, p = 0.002), increase in percutaneous cordotomy (0 percent versus 13 percent), and increase in the use of collagenase injections (0 percent versus 9 percent, p = 0.001). Use of Bier blocks increased (1 percent versus 7 percent), and tourniquet use decreased (97 percent versus 80 percent). Significant changes were also noted in postoperative management.

Conclusion:

By examining American Board of Plastic Surgery tracer data, the authors have described national trends in presentation and surgical techniques for Dupuytren contracture repair over a 14-year period.
HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Uptake and Continuation Among Key Populations in Cameroon: Lessons Learned From the CHAMP Program
Authors: Ndenkeh Jackson Jr Nforbewing , Bowring Anna L. , Njindam Iliassou Mfochive , Folem Romeo Dongfack , Fako Guy Christian Hendji , Ngueguim Florent Gnintedem , Gayou Oscar Leyou , Lepawa Kelly , Minka Christine Minka , Batoum Christine Manyo , Georges Sandra , Temgoua Edith , Nzima Valery , Kob David Anouar , Akiy Zacheus Zeh , Philbrick William , Levitt Daniel , Curry Dora , Baral Stefan
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is proven to be a highly effective HIV prevention method for key populations. However, its scale-up in resource-limited settings remains suboptimal. This paper seeks to describe PrEP initiation and continuation among key populations in Cameroon.

Methodology:

From June 2019 through October 2020, we collected routine program data on PrEP uptake and continuation among female sex workers (FSWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Continuum of prevention, care and treatment of HIV/AIDS with Most-at-risk Populations (CHAMP) program in Cameroon. PrEP was offered to clients who tested negative for HIV and were assessed to potentially benefit from PrEP. Using survival analysis, we identified factors associated with PrEP discontinuation over time with significance set at 5%.

Results:

Overall, 27,750 clients were sensitized for PrEP of whom 3,138 persons were eligible to start PrEP and 1,409 (45%; FSW: 691 and MSM: 718) initiated PrEP. The PrEP continuation rate was 37% at 3 months, 28% at 6 months and 19% at 12 months. PrEP discontinuation was significantly higher among FSW than MSM [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2 to 1.9)] in Yaounde [aHR 1.5 (95% CI: 1.2 to 1.9)] and Bafoussam/Bertoua [aHR 3.1 (2.2–4.5)] relative to Douala. Discontinuation was lower among those with moderate [aHR 0.3 (0.3–0.4)] or good adherence [aHR 0.4 (0.3–0.6)] compared with poor adherence (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Differentiated approaches to deliver PrEP, create demand, and provide more intensive support for adherence and continuation may support scale-up of PrEP in Cameroon for equitable and prolonged impact on HIV prevention.
Pass or Fail? Postoperative Active Voiding Trials in an Enhanced Recovery Program
Authors: Trowbridge Elisa R. , Buchanan Lauren E. , Evans Sarah L. , Allen Monica N. , Chacon Hannah L. , Hullfish Kathie L.
Published: May 2022

Importance

Pelvic reconstructive surgery is often associated with transient postoperative voiding dysfunction.

Objective

This study aimed to compare postoperative active voiding trial (AVT) outcomes before and after implementation of an enhanced recovery program (ERP) for women undergoing pelvic reconstructive surgery. In addition, risk factors for postoperative urinary retention were identified.

Study Design

We retrospectively identified patients undergoing inpatient vaginal or robotic pelvic reconstructive surgery before and after implementation of an ERP at our institution. Demographics, operative and postoperative details, and AVT outcomes were collected. Primary outcome was AVT failure. Variables associated with increased risk of AVT failure were identified using multivariate analysis.

Results

Three hundred seventeen patients were included—75 pre-ERP and 242 ERP. There was no difference in AVT failures between pre-ERP and ERP groups (21.3% vs 21.9%, P = 0.92). The AVT failures were highest among those with abnormal preoperative postvoid residual volume (PVR ≥100 mL, 25.9% vs 12.2%, P = 0.01) and those who underwent an incontinence procedure (midurethral sling or Kelly plication, 30.4% vs 16.9%, P = 0.01). Compared with a reference procedure (total vaginal hysterectomy [TVH]), the following procedures were associated with statistically significant higher odds ratios (ORs) of AVT failure: TVH with incontinence procedure (OR, 15.0; confidence interval [CI], 4.58–48.9; P < 0.001), TVH with anterior repair (OR, 4.98; CI, 1.93–12.9; P = 0.001), and robotic sacrocolpopexy (OR, 3.6; CI, 1.18–11.2; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Postoperative AVT failure incidence did not differ pre- and post-ERP intervention. Abnormal preoperative PVR was associated with failed postoperative voiding trial. Concomitant incontinence procedures and/or anterior colporrhaphy were associated with increased incidence of voiding trial failure regardless of ERP cohort.
Complications Reported to the Food and Drug Administration: A Cross-sectional Comparison of Urogynecologic Meshes
Authors: Artsen Amanda M. , Sassani Jessica C. , Moalli Pamela A. , Bradley Megan S.
Published: May 2022

Importance

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration uses the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database to evaluate the safety of urogynecologic meshes; however, reports on individual meshes have not been characterized.

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare complications among available urogynecologic meshes reported to the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database.

Study Design

This study is a cross-sectional analysis of medical device reports (MDRs) of urogynecologic mesh from January 2004 to March 2019, using the Reed Tech Navigator (LexisNexis), which codes MDRs. The percentage of reports containing specific complaints (not an adverse event rate) were compared with χ2 tests with Dunn-Sidak correction. Correlations with time on market, mesh weight, stiffness, and porosity were determined.

Results

The 34,485 reports examined included 6 transvaginal meshes, 4 sacrocolpopexy meshes, and 10 midurethral slings. Most reported events were pain, erosion, and infection. For transvaginal prolapse, less than 10% of Uphold Lite (Boston Scientific) reports contained pain or erosion versus greater than 90% of Prolift/Prolift+M (Ethicon, P < 0.001). For sacrocolpopexy mesh, greater than 90% of Gynemesh (Ethicon; Prolift in vaginal form) reports included erosion and pain versus less than 60% for Artisyn (Ethicon), Restorelle (Colpoplast), and Upsylon (Boston Scientific, P < 0.0001). For slings, Gynecare TVT Obturator had the highest proportion of erosion and pain complaints. Heavier sling meshes had more reports. When Ascend (Caldera Medical), an outlier with only 5 reports, was excluded, transvaginal mesh stiffness correlated strongly with number of reports. For transvaginal meshes, number of reports correlated with time on market (ρ = 0.8, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Individual meshes have different properties with different complication profiles, which should inform mesh development and use. Gynemesh MDRs included pain and erosion more frequently than others. Comprehensive registries are needed.
Relationship Between Opioid Prescriptions and Number of Chronic Pain Conditions in Women With Interstitial Cystitis
Authors: Duncan Jordann-Mishael , Hong Christopher X. , Harvie Heidi S. , Brown Lily A. , Arya Lily A. , Kim Edward K.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between opioid prescriptions and number of chronic pain conditions in women with interstitial cystitis (IC).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Women diagnosed with IC based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision/Tenth Revision codes over an 11-year period (2010–2020) were identified from electronic medical records. Data on comorbidities and ambulatory opioid prescriptions were also extracted. Univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used to assess the relationship between opioid prescriptions and the number and type of coexisting chronic pain conditions.

Results

Of the 1,219 women with IC, 207 (17%) had received at least 1 opioid prescription. The proportions of women with opioid prescriptions for no, 1, 2, and 3 or more coexisting chronic pain conditions were 13%, 20%, 28%, and 32%, respectively. On univariable analysis, factors significantly associated with opioid use were higher body mass index (P < 0.001), depression (P < 0.001), sleep disorder (P < 0.001), endometriosis (P < 0.05), chronic pelvic pain (P < 0.001), fibromyalgia (P < 0.05), joint pain (P < 0.001), and number of coexisting chronic pain diagnoses (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, opioid prescriptions remained significantly associated with the number of coexisting chronic pain diagnoses: 1 diagnosis (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–2.7), 2 diagnoses (aOR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.6–4.3), 3 or more diagnoses (aOR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1–5.5), diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain (aOR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.3–3.5), endometriosis (aOR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.4–4.3), chronic joint pain (aOR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1–2.9), and sleep disorders (aOR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.6–3.6).

Conclusion

The likelihood of opioid prescriptions in women with IC increases with the number and type of coexisting chronic pain conditions and sleep disorders.
Single-molecule tracking (SMT) and localization of SRF and MRTF transcription factors during neuronal stimulation and differentiation
Authors: Kuchler Oliver , Gerlach Jule , Vomhof Thomas , Hettich Johannes , Steinmetz Julia , Gebhardt J. Christof M. , Michaelis Jens , Knöll Bernd
Published: May 2022

In cells, proteins encoded by the same gene do not all behave uniformly but engage in functional subpopulations induced by spatial or temporal segregation. While conventional microscopy has limitations in revealing such spatial and temporal diversity, single-molecule tracking (SMT) microscopy circumvented this problem and allows for high-resolution imaging and quantification of dynamic single-molecule properties. Particularly in the nucleus, SMT has identified specific DNA residence times of transcription factors (TFs), DNA-bound TF fractions and positions of transcriptional hot-spots upon cell stimulation. By contrast to cell stimulation, SMT has not been employed to follow dynamic TF changes along stages of cell differentiation. Herein, we analysed the serum response factor (SRF), a TF involved in the differentiation of many cell types to study nuclear single-molecule dynamics in neuronal differentiation. Our data in living mouse hippocampal neurons show dynamic changes in SRF DNA residence time and SRF DNA-bound fraction between the stages of adhesion, neurite growth and neurite differentiation in axon and dendrites. Using TALM (tracking and localization microscopy), we identified nuclear positions of SRF clusters and observed changes in their numbers and size during differentiation. Furthermore, we show that the SRF cofactor MRTF-A (myocardin-related TF or MKL1) responds to cell activation by enhancing the long-bound DNA fraction. Finally, a first SMT colocalization study of two proteins was performed in living cells showing enhanced SRF/MRTF-A colocalization upon stimulation. In summary, SMT revealed modulation of dynamic TF properties during cell stimulation and differentiation.
Tannockella kyphosi gen. nov., sp. nov., a member of the family Erysipelotrichaceae, isolated from the hindgut of the marine herbivorous fish Kyphosus sydneyanus
Authors: Pardesi Bikiran , Roberton Anthony M. , Wollmuth Emily M. , Angert Esther R. , Rosendale Douglas I. , White William Lindsey , Clements Kendall D.
Published: May 2022

A Gram-stain-positive, non-spore-forming, rod-shaped, obligately anaerobic bacterium, designated strain BP52GT, was isolated from the hindgut of a Silver Drummer (Kyphosus sydneyanus) fish collected from the Hauraki Gulf, New Zealand. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that the isolate belonged to the family

Erysipelotrichaceae

in the phylum Firmicutes and was most closely related to

Clostridium saccharogumia

with 93.3 % sequence identity. Isolate BP52GT grew on agar medium containing mannitol as the sole carbon source. White, opaque and shiny colonies of the isolate measuring approximately 1 mm diameter grew within a week at 20–28 °C (optimum, 24 °C) and pH 6.9–8.5 (optimum, pH 7.8). BP52GT tolerated the addition of up to 1 % NaCl to the medium. Formate and acetate were the major fermentation products. The major cellular fatty acids were C16 : 0, C16:1n-7t and C18:1n-7t. The genome sequence of the isolate was determined. Its G+C content was 30.7 mol%, and the 72.65 % average nucleotide identity of the BP52GT genome to its closest neighbour with a completely sequenced genome (

Erysipelatoclostridium ramosum

JCM 1298T) indicated low genomic relatedness. Based on the phenotypic and taxonomic characteristics observed in this study, a novel genus and species Tannockella kyphosi gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed for isolate BP52GT (=NZRM 4757T=JCM 34692T).
Immunological findings in a group of individuals who were non-responders to standard two-dose SARS-CoV-2 vaccines
Authors: Zeng Qiang , Yang Xue , Gao Qi , Lin Biao-yang , Li Yong-zhe , Huang Gang , Xu Yang
Published: May 2022

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was declared a pandemic. The virus has infected more than 505 million people and caused more than 6 million deaths. However, data on non-responders to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in the general population are limited. The objective of the study is to comprehensively compare the immunological characteristics of non-responders to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in the 18-59 years with that in the 60 years and older using internationally recognized cutoff values. Participants included 627 individuals who received physical examinations and volunteered to participate in COVID-19 vaccination from the general population. The main outcome was an effective seroconversion characterized by anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike IgG level of at least 4-fold increase from baseline. Profiling of naive immune cells was analyzed prior to vaccination to demonstrate baseline immunity. Outcomes of effective seroconversion in the 18-59 years with that in the 60 years and older were compared. The quantitative level of the anti-spike IgG was significantly lower in the 60 years and older and in men among the 18-59 years. There were 7.5% of non-responders among the 18-59 years and 11.7% of non-responders in the 60 years and older using the 4-fold increase parameter. The effective seroconversion rate was significantly related to the level of certain immune cells before vaccination, such as CD4 cells, CD8 cells and B cells and the age. An individual with a titer of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike IgG that is below 50 BAU/mL might be considered a non-responder between 14-90 days after the last vaccine dose. Booster vaccination or additional protective measures should be recommended for non-responders as soon as possible to reduce disease severity and mortality.
Roles of vimentin in health and disease
Authors: Ridge Karen M. , Eriksson John E. , Pekny Milos , Goldman Robert D.
Published: May 2022

More than 27 yr ago, the vimentin knockout (Vim−/−) mouse was reported to develop and reproduce without an obvious phenotype, implying that this major cytoskeletal protein was nonessential. Subsequently, comprehensive and careful analyses have revealed numerous phenotypes in Vim−/− mice and their organs, tissues, and cells, frequently reflecting altered responses in the recovery of tissues following various insults or injuries. These findings have been supported by cell-based experiments demonstrating that vimentin intermediate filaments (IFs) play a critical role in regulating cell mechanics and are required to coordinate mechanosensing, transduction, signaling pathways, motility, and inflammatory responses. This review highlights the essential functions of vimentin IFs revealed from studies of Vim−/− mice and cells derived from them.
European novel food, patents and brokers of knowledge
Authors: Grimsby Sveinung , Gulbrandsen Magnus
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to study how public regulation promotes or hinders openness in the food industry, specifically how European novel food regulation has affected external ties among novel food pioneers seen through patents and their inventors.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiphase mixed-methods design was used to combine data as follows: Worldwide patents originating from Norwegian novel food pioneers 2004–2019, downloaded through the European Patent Office database. Application data and interviews were analysed together with substantial information on 88 patents.

Findings

Firms use patenting and novel food applications as part of a wider intellectual property rights strategy to guard against unintended spillovers and to shape external collaboration. Examinations of patents indicate a pattern of selective partnership with research and development (R&D) providers.

Practical implications

Food industry actors can combine property rights strategies to maintain a pattern of openness and external collaboration. R&D providers should consider the food industry's flag-planting strategies by integrating these into contractual regulations.

Originality/value

Little is known earlier about how novel food pioneers collaborate with suppliers, research actors, governmental actors, distributors and customers regarding new product development.
Combating terrorist financing in Switzerland in the light of current changes in Afghanistan
Authors: Teichmann Fabian , Boticiu Sonia Ruxandra
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the current situation in Afghanistan after the rapid withdrawal of US troops and the Taliban takeover of the country, and how this has shed new light on the financing of terrorism.

Design/methodology/approach

Informal interviews were conducted with alleged perpetrators as well as formal interviews with compliance experts to further investigate the subject of terrorist financing in the wake of the latest changes in Afghanistan and terrorist financing through hawala banking. The interviewees were analysed through a qualitative analysis.

Findings

Based on the interviews, it was concluded that both illegal and legal sources of income could be used by terrorist financiers. This study also shows why hawala represents a significant challenge for counter-terrorist financing policies.

Originality/value

While existing literature sufficiently links parallel banking systems, such as hawala, to terrorist financing, this study shows the implications for Switzerland’s perceived commitment against financial crime in light of current changes in Afghanistan, and in addition, certain dogmatic weaknesses of Article 260quinquies of the Swiss Penal Code are critically analysed.
Small-series supply network configuration priorities and challenges in the EU textile and apparel industry
Authors: Harper Sara , Pal Rudrajeet
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Technology and market pressures are encouraging localized and small-series production in customer-driven industries. The purpose of this paper is to explore and understand the supply chain-, product- and process-design factors for small-series production in EU's textile and apparel industry, to understand configuration decisions, priorities and challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

An interview study was undertaken with ten companies that represent diverse small-series production models and value chain roles. Interview data was analysed to identify supply network configuration characteristics, decision priorities and challenges.

Findings

Three small-series production models emerged from the analysis, differing with respect to adoption of process postponement and customization. The findings confirm and extend past research regarding diverse decision priorities and product, process, supply chain structure/relationship configurations. Challenges identified relate to planning (priorities) and implementation (configuration). Whereas competence availability and digital technology challenges are common, several difficulties are linked to production model like tensions related to priorities and small volumes, which are not found with customization.

Research limitations/implications

Future research can make comparisons with other industry and location contexts; adopt dynamic approaches to distinguish between design and reconfiguration processes; and address indicated paradoxical-tensions.

Practical implications

The study findings can provide guidance for companies regarding identification of priorities and management of (planning/implementation) challenges impacting small-series production in T&A.

Originality/value

The paper brings a configuration perspective at the supply chain level to the problem of small-series production implementation, which demands holistic and context-specific understanding.
Effects of interface layout design on mobile learning efficiency: a comparison of interface layouts for mobile learning platform
Authors: Zhang Mingming , Hou Guanhua , Chen Yeh-Cheng
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of mobile learning platforms on users' study efficiency and develop cognitive indicators to evaluate users' study efficiency on mobile learning platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

Layout style was the only independent factor that was investigated. A between-group experimental design was employed. Eye movement data were recorded during the experiment, following which participants were asked to complete an after-scenario questionnaire. This study evaluated the usability of the proposed new design using both subjective and objective data. The computer system usability questionnaire V3 (CSUQ) was used to measure subjective data. For the eye-tracking measure, gaze entropy, the proportion of fixation count and duration of each AOI were calculated. Gaze entropy reflects the complexity of information organization. Fixation counts and AOI duration represent the difficulty of information processing and attention distribution, respectively during the task.

Findings

The results indicated that interface layout presents significant effects on user's learning efficiency, usability and cognitive load. Sequential layout improved efficiency and satisfaction among participants and reduced information complexity. The results provided useful insights for designers whose goal is to improve user's learning efficiency under mobile learning scheme.

Originality/value

This study investigated the effects of interface layout on usability, user performance and cognitive load using subjective ratings and eye-tracking technology. Gaze entropy was used to measure the complexity of information organized by the interface design. Fixation count and duration proportion were used to identify the difficulty of information processing and distinguish users' distribution of cognitive resources. The results indicated that a vertical layout panel design was more efficient than a horizontal layout panel design. The design implications of the eye tracking indicators and research results were then summarized. This study is expected to encourage designers to optimize their design proposals using eye tracking testing.
Emergency transition to remote learning: DoIt@Home Lab in engineering
Authors: Raut Nitin Bhaurao , Gorman Gweneth
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The interruption of on-campus teaching and learning, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, forced universities around the globe to rethink their pedagogical models and adopt innovative strategies and approaches that enabled continuity of learning. Engineering schools and faculties were faced with the challenge of how to continue to engage students with the practical component of coursework, especially in terms of lab work and experimentation, which are mandatory requirements for degree awards.

Design/methodology/approach

This study documents how the Faculty of Engineering in a university in Oman engaged students with the practical component of their course during the pandemic by launching the remote DoIt@Home Lab. The DoIt@Home Lab approach included the design and development of video recorded labs, virtual labs, simulation exercises and DoIt@Home experiments which were provided to students as teaching tools and guides to conducting home experiments remotely.

Findings

This study presents the DoIt@Home Lab approach introduced to Year 2 Chemistry for engineering students. Students' grades improved by 11% over the previous year when the course was delivered face-to-face. Failure rates dropped by 8% while the number of students earning a 3.25 grade point average (GPA) or higher increased by 18%.

Originality/value

The DoIt@Home Lab for engineering courses could enhance students' learning experience and create an effective remote learning environment. While the DoIt@Home Lab was created to supplement on-campus activity in the event of a temporary disruption, it can also be used to supplement regular face-to-face program delivery.
“Content, content everywhere… . . How to reach and engage consumers?” – Brand Nabhi Sutra
Authors: Nagori Viral , Magotra Crystal
Published: May 2022

Theoretical basis

The SAVE framework introduced by Richard Ettenson, Eduardo Conrado and Jonathan Knowles can be used to address the problem of content saturation and to plan content strategies for the brand Nabhi Sutra. The framework focuses on the solution, access, value and education instead of the traditional four Ps of marketing.

Research methodology

The research methodology involved conducting structured interviews with the protagonist. The responses were recorded and analysed for the case development. The supplementary information was taken from the brand’s website “nabhisutra.com” and its Facebook and Instagram pages.

Case overview/synopsis

The case is classified in the category of a short case addressing the identification of the problem of content saturation and guidelines to avoid it. The case narrates the story of Nabhi Sutra, a health-care start-up that offers “Ayurveda” remedies in the form of oil to be applied to the navel to cure health issues. Ms Vakharia, the owner of Nabhi Sutra, mentioned that her social media posts and campaigns are not reaching the desired target audience.

Complexity academic level

The case can be used for teaching undergraduate, postgraduate as well as certificate and executive development programs to teach courses on digital marketing, content marketing and social media marketing to cover the concept of content saturation. The case can be of value addition to the entrepreneurship and digital marketing practitioners.
Gender and psychological safety in virtual teams: the role of awareness types enabled by information technologies
Authors: Lim JoAnne Yong-Kwan
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Organizations worldwide use virtual teams to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic and capitalize on distributed members' unique expertise to accomplish essential tasks. A critical reason that inhibits virtual team members from leveraging each other’s knowledge is a lack of psychological safety. Specifically, individuals are unwilling to speak out for fear of negative repercussions, such as embarrassment to one’s image and rejection from others in their teams. The purpose of this study is to advance the importance of distinct awareness (task knowledge and presence) enabled by information technologies in developing the psychological safety of men and women in virtual teams.

Design/methodology/approach

This study tested the hypotheses using a survey study of 94 participants from 19 graduate student virtual teams.

Findings

This study found that task knowledge awareness predicted psychological safety for men, whereas it was presence awareness for women. By demonstrating the role of awareness in promoting psychological safety for men and women in virtual teams, this study also sheds light on reducing online gender inequitable issues.

Practical implications

First, organizational managers need to incorporate gender when deciding the awareness type to promote psychological safety in virtual teams. For men, it is task knowledge awareness, whereas for women, it is presence awareness. Second, as there is a wide range of information technologies (ITs) available, managers need to identify if the provided ITs enable virtual team members to develop the specific type of knowledge awareness critical for psychological safety development. Third, managers can incorporate rewards and apply interventions at regular temporal periods to encourage team members to increase their online presence as well as question and share task-related content.

Originality/value

It is imperative to identify ways to encourage men and women working in virtual teams to speak up so that the expertise held by the members can be better leveraged. This study represents an important step in this direction.
Propagation of information-sharing in social media: the perspective of intrinsic and extrinsic cues
Authors: Le Xuan Cu
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Social media has progressively upgraded an interactive domain via online sociability and information-sharing. This study aims to formulate an information-sharing intention model by identifying the decisive role of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data from 508 participants were collected to examine the structural model using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results indicate that information-sharing intention is strongly promoted by intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. Furthermore, perceived herding, perceived crowd and intrinsic motivation boost substantially extrinsic motivation. Perceived herding is of utmost importance to extrinsic motivation, whereas emotional appeal and informative appeal are of paramount importance to intrinsic motivation. Moreover, source trust and exhibitionism are underlying motivations for intrinsic motivation.

Practical implications

The findings provide useful guidelines for practitioners to urge users into information-sharing via social media.

Originality/value

This study contributes significantly to the current literature by developing an effective mechanism of information-sharing through social media based on the motivational theory.
Environment, taxonomy and morphology constrain insect thermal physiology along tropical mountains
Authors: Bota‐Sierra Cornelio A. , García‐Robledo Carlos , Escobar Federico , Novelo‐Gutiérrez Rodolfo , Londoño Gustavo A.
Published: May 2022

Tropical mountains display limited variation in monthly temperatures, but high spatial climatic variability. It is assumed this stability promotes ecological and physiological adaptations to local temperatures, which may preclude dispersal up or downslope. Determining how environmental, taxonomic and morphological factors affect thermal limits is fundamental to understand biotic responses to global warming.

We selected 54 species of dragonflies and damselflies (Order Odonata) distributed from 300 to 2,550 m along one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, the Tatamá elevational gradient in the Andean‐Choco region transition. We estimated for 846 individuals three thermal tolerance parameters: CTmax, the highest temperature preceding the loss of motor control, Tvol, the temperature at which individuals avoid heat, and CTmin, the minimum temperature required for wing movement.

For each thermal tolerance parameter, we evaluated associations between physiological and behavioural responses, species elevational distribution and specialization to forests or open areas. We also evaluated the effect of autecological characteristics such as body mass, sex and taxonomy on temperature regulation.

Temperatures prevalent at different elevations and habitats are associated with odonate upper thermal limits. However, tolerance to low temperatures is not associated with habitat use or elevation. Forest species display lower thermal tolerances. Small species are more tolerant to high temperatures than larger species. Dragonflies are more tolerant to high temperatures than damselflies with similar body mass. Females are more tolerant to high temperatures than males.

Our results highlight the importance of considering differences in morphology, life history and behaviour when comparing thermal tolerances of organisms along elevational gradients. Only by incorporating such factors, it would be possible to generate accurate predictions on the impact of climate change on tropical organisms.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Small giants: Tributaries rescue spatially structured populations from extirpation in a highly fragmented stream
Authors: Tsuboi Jun‐ichi , Morita Kentaro , Koseki Yusuke , Endo Shinsuke , Sahashi Genki , Kishi Daisuke , Kikko Takeshi , Ishizaki Daisuke , Nunokawa Masanori , Kanno Yoichiro
Published: May 2022

Habitat fragmentation is a pervasive threat to biodiversity. Linearly arranged habitats such as stream networks are particularly vulnerable to fragmentation. As the landscape becomes increasingly human dominated, conservation values of fragmented habitat patches cannot be overlooked. It is critical to understand the demographic mechanisms of population persistence or extirpation in fragmented patches.

We studied dynamics of spatially structured populations of two Japanese landlocked salmonids persisting for >30 years in a headwater stream network that is highly fragmented due to low‐head dams in the mainstem. We parameterised and analysed spatial matrix population models using 9‐year mark–recapture data.

Tributaries supported higher survival rates in some life stages, and movement was asymmetrical from the tributaries to the mainstem. Accordingly, population growth rates were higher in the tributary patches than the mainstem in both species despite the tributaries occupying only 12% or 18% of the study stream network by surface area. The tributaries harboured more physically and hydraulically complex instream habitats (i.e. higher wood density and flow refugia), indicating that habitat patch quality was more important than habitat patch size in determining the dynamics of these spatially structured populations.

Tributary locations in the stream network were important in the trajectory of these populations. The upstream‐dwelling charr persisted in the highly fragmented mainstem patch (i.e. six impassable infrastructures in a <500 m patch) due to immigration of fish from upstream including the tributary. However, the downstream‐dwelling salmon has been gradually extirpated from the uppermost section of the fragmented mainstem patch because they could not maintain a positive population growth rate after loss of emigrants was accounted for and immigration was prevented due to fragmentation.

Synthesis and applications. We conclude that small tributaries have rescued the spatially structured populations from extirpation (charr) or at least slowed down extirpation (salmon). Legal protection of headwaters as aquatic habitats is weak globally. Our results suggest that stream management plans underestimating the demographic value of small tributaries will likely fail to conserve populations of headwater inhabitants and therefore endanger aquatic biodiversity. We discuss conservation implications of this study related to habitat connectivity and fisheries management.
Na+ homeostasis in Acinetobacter baumannii is facilitated via the activity of the Mrp antiporter
Authors: Hubloher Josephine Joy , van der Sande Lisa , Müller Volker
Published: May 2022

The human opportunistic pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii is a global threat to healthcare institutions worldwide, since it developed very efficient strategies to evade host defence and to adapt to the different environmental conditions of the host. This work focused on the importance of Na+ homeostasis in A. baumannii with regards to pathobiological aspects. In silico studies revealed a homologue of a multicomponent Na+/H+ antiporter system. Inactivation of the Mrp antiporter through deletion of the first gene (mrpA′) resulted in a mutant that was sensitive to increasing pH values. Furthermore, the strain was highly sensitive to increasing Na+ and Li+ concentrations. Increasing Na+ sensitivity is thought to be responsible for growth impairment in human fluids. Furthermore, deletion of mrpA′ is associated with energetic defects, inhibition of motility and survival under anoxic and dry conditions.
Preventive effect of Lactobacillus plantarum HFY15 on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced acute liver injury in mice
Authors: Long Xingyao , Wang Pan , Zhou Yujing , Wang Qiang , Ren Lixuan , Li Qin , Zhao Xin
Published: May 2022

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is the main chemical causing liver damage. In this experiment, the effect of Lactobacillus plantarum HFY15 treatment on CCl4‐induced acute liver injury was investigated using mice. Fifty adult mice were randomized into five study groups, each group with 10 ml kg–1 saline, 50 mg kg–1 silymarin, and 109CFU kg–1 L. plantarum HFY15 and LDSB per day, and all the mice expect the normal group were injected 0.8% CCl4 (10 ml kg–1) on the 14th day. Following the 16 h induction of the liver injury, various biochemical markers were assessed for blood and liver tissue. After L. plantarum HFY15 treatment, the content of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglycerides (TG), malondialdehyde (MDA), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in serum decreased by 67.7%, 65.0%, 41.9%, 59.5%, and 51.5%, respectively, and the level of antioxidant enzymes (total superoxide dismutation [T‐SOD], catalase [CAT], glutathione [GSH]) increased by more than twofold. Pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interferon‐γ (INF‐γ), and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) decreased by more than 45% in serum and live. What is more, L. plantarum HFY15 increased the expression of antiapoptosis genes Bcl‐2 by eightfold, inhibiting the expression of proapoptotic genes Caspase‐3 and Bax by about threefold. Lactobacillus plantarum HFY15 has obvious protective effects on CCl4‐induced liver injury by inhibiting oxidation, reducing the release of inflammatory factors, and exerting suppressive effect on apoptotic process in the CCl4‐induced liver injury. Lactobacillus plantarum HFY15 can be developed as edible lactic acid bacteria for preventing liver toxicity.

Practical Application

L. plantarum HFY15 can alleviate liver injury caused by carbon tetrachloride toxicity through antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐apoptotic pathways.