bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Customer-based brand competitiveness (CBBC) scale: advancing the relative perspective
Authors: Wangmo Gaki , Piehler Rico , Baumann Chris
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Brand competitiveness as a brand’s outperformance of competing brands is receiving growing attention in the literature. This study aims to provide a theoretical underpinning for the construct’s relevance, introduce customer-based brand competitiveness (CBBC) as a customer-based perspective and develop a scale to measure the construct.

Design/methodology/approach

The scale development process comprises three stages, with a literature search and a qualitative consumer study (n = 20) in the scale construction stage, interviews and a survey with academic branding experts (n = 21) in the scale refinement stage and three quantitative studies with consumers (n = 1,157), resulting in 2,078 brand evaluations across five industries, in the scale validation stage.

Findings

This study develops a seven-item CBBC scale, representing a powerful yet parsimonious tool for measuring brand competitiveness. The superiority of the new over the existing brand competitiveness scale was validated through structural equation modelling by comparing the performance in explaining customer-based brand equity and purchase intentions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to develop a brand competitiveness scale following a scholarly scale development process. The CBBC scale advances the relative perspective in brand performance measures, considering the relativity at the individual customer level. This study offers a theoretical underpinning for the construct’s relevance and further insights into brand competitiveness by investigating the customer-based perspective. Finally, this study suggests and empirically validates customer-based brand equity and purchase intentions as outcomes of CBBC, extending research into the nomological network of brand competitiveness.
The digital (r)evolution in internal audits: are we there yet? Some insights from Italy
Authors: Bertacchini Federico , Gabrielli Gianluca , Lugli Ennio , Marchini Pier Luigi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify the principal changes that digitalization has brought about in the internal audit functions (IAFs), focusing on the main characteristics that have been affected by this phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

The study follows a qualitative approach, involving the thematic analysis of semistructured interviews. A total of 22 professionals working in Italian-listed companies’ IAFs were interviewed. The framework of institutional theory was used to analyze the results.

Findings

The elements most affected by the digitalization of IAFs in Italy are: the skills required in IAFs, the relationship with external consultants and the types of activities performed by internal auditors (IArs). Nevertheless, the extent of the level digitalization within the IAFs of the companies analyzed appears to vary in accordance with the level of institutional pressures experienced by the organizations.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature on IA and digitalization by delineating the principal elements that are influenced by the digitalization process of IA. Moreover, it highlights how these elements develop and evolve as the level of digitalization of the IAF changes.
Competencies, skills, and personal attributes in job advertisements for archivists and records managers in Finland
Authors: Packalén Saara , Partanen Lauri
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to increase knowledge of archives and records management as a profession by examining which kinds of competencies, skills and personal attributes employers expect of and appreciate in archives and records-management professionals in Finland.

Design/methodology/approach

This work compiled and analysed advertisements (201 in total) of open archive and records-management positions in Finland, then subjected these to qualitative data-based content analysis with supplemental quantitative analysis. This paper illustrates the findings via tables, charts and excerpts from the advertisements.

Findings

Analysis revealed the public sector to be Finland’s largest employer of archives and records-management professionals. This study indicates that employers value an academic degree with some additional archive-related and records-management education and strong practical experience of similar duties. Both knowledge of legislation and language skills are appreciated. The general skills most valued by employers are interaction and co-operation abilities and skills in information technology, in customer service and in the development of work methods. Personal attributes especially valued in prospective archive professionals and records managers are independence, accuracy, self-motivation and flexibility.

Originality/value

This study adds to knowledge of the archives and records-management profession of the 2020s. Findings from this work may be of particular value for curriculum development.
Generation of Replication‐Competent Hepatitis B Virus Harboring Tagged Polymerase for Visualization and Quantification of the Infection
Authors: Morita Chiharu , Wada Masami , Ohsaki Eriko , Kimura‐Ohba Shihoko , Ueda Keiji
Published: December 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious global health problem causing acute and chronic hepatitis and related diseases. Approximately, 296 million patients have been chronically infected with the virus, leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although HBV polymerase (HBVpol, pol) plays a pivotal role in HBV replication and must be a definite therapeutic target. The problems are that the detailed functions and intracellular dynamics of HBVpol remain unclear. Here, we constructed two kinds of tagged HBVpol, PA‐tagged and HiBiT‐tagged pol, and the HBV‐producing vectors. Each PA tag and HiBiT tag were inserted into N‐terminus of spacer region on HBVpol open reading frame. Transfection of the plasmids into HepG2 cells led to production of HBV. These tagged HBVpol were detectable in HBV replicating cells and pol‐HiBiT enabled quantitative analysis. Furthermore, these recombinant HBV were infectious to primary human hepatocytes. Thus, we successfully designed infectious and replication‐competent recombinant HBV harboring detectable tagged HBVpol. Such infectious recombinant HBV will provide a novel tool to study HBVpol dynamics and develop new therapeutics against HBV.
miRNA targeting Mpp53 is involved in UV‐B irradiation resistance in Myzus persicae
Authors: He Longchun , Yang Changli , Meng Jianyu , Tang Xue , Zhang Changyu
Published: December 2024

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, an environmental stressor, is crucial for the survival and adaptation of organisms. Myzus persicae, a global pest, is exposed to sunlight year‐round, making it unable to avoid UV rays in its environment. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression and mediate various biological processes. However, the role of miRNA in aphids in response to UV‐B stress is unclear. In this study, Mpp53 expression level significantly increased with an increase in the duration of UV‐B radiation, peaking at 2 h; knockdown of Mpp53 decreased the survival rate of aphids under UV‐B stress, suggesting that Mpp53 is involved in aphid responses to UV‐B. Here, we first predicted 8 miRNAs targeting Mpp53, and then screened for miRNAs related to UV‐B resistance in aphids; of these, 5 miRNAs (miR‐305‐5p, novel_50, novel_80, novel_166, and novel_61) were found to target Mpp53. Luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that novel_61 binds to the noncoding region of Mpp53 and downregulates its expression. Overexpression of novel_61 in aphids decreased Mpp53 expression and caused significant mortality under UV‐B irradiation. Furthermore, the aphids exhibited lower reproductive capacity, lower body weight, and shorter body length and width. This is the first study to systematically screen and identify miRNA related to aphid responses to UV‐B stress and deepens our understanding of the molecular mechanism of insect responses to environmental stress, which may eventually aid in developing better control strategies.
Recyclable and non‐recyclable packaging films with different barrier properties: Effect of processing and storage time on quality of mashed potato and ground carrot
Authors: Sharmin Nusrat , Rotabakk Bjørn Tore , Grøvlen Magnhild Seim , Larsen Hanne , Skåra Torstein , Pettersen Marit Kvalvåg
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate if high barrier recyclable material polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol (PE/EVOH) can be an alternative non‐recyclable polyamides (PA)/PE laminate and also if high barrier is required or recyclable PE material with low barrier properties is good enough to maintain the quality of thermally processed mashed potato and ground carrot. The oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of the PA/PE and PE films decreased after heat treatment, while no change was observed for PE/EVOH films. Food contact did not impact the OTR of PA/PE and PE/EVOH films, while the OTR of PE films decreased. The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of PA/PE and PE/EVOH films increased after heat treatment. In general, the WVTR of films increased after food contact. The tensile strength of all films was only reduced up to 3–4 weeks of food contact. After 10 weeks, the PE film showed significantly lower hue values and a larger total color difference than the two other films. Light exposure reduced the hue values and increased total color difference after 6 weeks of storage. The odor and flavor of both mashed potatoes and ground carrots were affected by light exposure. The mashed potato showed a slight reduction in freshness‐odor for all materials with storage time. For flavor, mashed potato and ground carrot showed similar trends; flavor was scored unacceptable when packaged in PE films after 6 weeks, but when packaged in PA/PE and PE/EVOH films, the flavor was still acceptable after 10 weeks of storage.
Characterization of primary aroma compounds in Pu‐erh raw tea sourced from various regions using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and headspace solid‐phase microextraction
Authors: Du Lijuan , Ye Yanping , Shao Jinliang , Wang Yutong , Zhu Guolei , Jiang Hua , Liu Hongcheng , Liu Zhenhuan
Published: December 2024

The assessment of aroma plays a crucial role in determining the characteristics and quality of Pu‐erh tea. The volatile compounds present in Pu‐erh raw tea sourced from five regions in Yunnan Province have been studied using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) in conjunction with headspace solid phase microextraction (HS‐SPME). A total of 69 aroma‐active compounds were identified, with alcohols, ketones, and aldehydes being the predominant component types. Furthermore, notable variations were observed among four pairs of volatile terpenoid enantiomers. Significant discrimination was achieved using orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (R(x2) = 0.926, R(y2) = 0.843, Q2 = 0.501). Moreover, 33 important differential compounds were identified based on variable importance in the projection values (VIP > 1.0) and one‐way ANOVA analysis (p < 0.05). Subsequently, a KEGG pathway analysis was conducted, revealing enrichment pathways primarily focused on the mevalonate pathway, steroid biosynthesis, and fatty acid biosynthesis. Ultimately, the key volatile compounds and major aroma‐contributing compounds were successfully identified.
A Study on the Diagnostic Value of Dual‐Energy CT (DECT) Imaging in Patients With Gouty Arthritis
Authors: Luan YiXin , Gao XingShuai
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To explore the diagnostic value of dual‐energy computed tomography (DECT) in patients with gouty arthritis.

Methods

A total of 160 patients with gouty arthritis who were treated in our hospital from January 2023 to October 2023 were selected as the research subjects. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: an observation group and a control group. Each group had 80 cases. Observation group performed DECT examination and control group performed X‐ray examination. The researchers recorded the general information of the participants in both groups and conducted single‐factor analysis. They compared the detection of positive diseased joints between the two groups, as well as compared the distribution of positive diseased joints. In addition, the number of joint lesions was compared in the two groups.

Results

There were not any statistically great differences between the two groups in gender, age, BMI, disease duration, blood uric acid, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p > 0.05). During the DECT examination, a total of 82 positive diseased joints were identified in the observation group. The observation group also had a positive rate of 85.42% (82/96) in the DECT examination. While the control group had a total of 55 positive diseased joints during the X‐ray examination with a positive rate of 59.78% (55/92). The difference between the two groups of patients in the positive rate of two kinds of examination was statistically significant (χ2 = 15.616, p < 0.001). No statistical significance was found in the distribution of the number of positive diseased joints between two groups (χ2 = 1.986, p = 0.851). Both DECT and X‐ray examinations of patients in the two groups revealed that the lesions were primarily located in the soft tissues or ligaments surrounding the distal small joints of the limbs, such as metatarsophalangeal joints, ankle joints, and proximal interphalangeal joints. Compared with the X‐ray examination of the patients, the DECT examination of the patients showed a great increase in the number of bone destruction, gout nodules, and soft tissue swelling (χ2 = 7.712, 10.441, 5.389, p = 0.005, 0.001, 0.020). Moreover, the DECT examination of patients showed the presence of urate crystals and joint effusion, while the X‐ray examination of patients in the control group did not show any.

Conclusions

Siemens dual‐source 64‐slice CT dual‐energy imaging has better diagnostic value for gouty arthritis than X‐ray and has higher specificity for detecting urate crystals and joint effusion. Therefore, Siemens dual‐source 64‐slice CT dual‐energy imaging examination may serve as a promising new noninvasive technique for early diagnosis, clinical screening, and follow‐up of gout in the future.
circ‐TTC17 Promotes Esophagus Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Growth, Metastasis, and Inhibits Autophagy‐Mediated Radiosensitivity Through miR‐145‐5p/SIRT1 Axis
Authors: Liu Ying , Lan Shengmin , Duan Zhihui
Published: December 2024

Background

Circular RNA (circRNA) plays a significant role in esophagus squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) progression. Nevertheless, circ‐TTC17 roles in ESCC have not fully understood.

Methods

The levels of circ‐TTC17, miR‐145‐5p and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) were determined using qRT‐PCR. ESCC cell functions were examined by CCK8 assay, flow cytometry, transwell assay and colony formation assay. The relative protein levels of autophagy marker and SIRT1 were determined by western blot (WB). The interactions among circ‐TTC17, miR‐145‐5p, and SIRT1 were verified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay.

Results

circ‐TTC17 was overexpressed and miR‐145‐5p was underexpressed in ESCC. circ‐TTC17 knockdown restrained ESCC cell proliferation and metastasis, while enhance apoptosis and autophagy‐mediated radiosensitivity. Circ‐TTC17 could sponge miR‐145‐5p, and its inhibitor reversed the inhibitory effect of circ‐TTC17 knockdown on ESCC cell progression. Additionally, SIRT1 was targeted by miR‐145‐5p, and SIRT1 overexpression abolished miR‐145‐5p‐mediated the suppressive effect on ESCC cell progression. Also, circ‐TTC17 interference reduced ESCC tumor growth via miR‐145‐5p/SIRT1 axis.

Conclusion

circ‐TTC17 promoted ESCC cell growth, metastasis and inhibited autophagy‐mediated radiosensitivity by miR‐145‐5p/SIRT1 axis.
Hard tissue thin‐sectioning techniques in vertebrate paleohistology: Review, synthesis and improvements
Authors: Cuccu Andrea , Calderón Teresa , Azanza Beatriz , DeMiguel Daniel
Published: December 2024

Paleohistology provides a significant amount of information on the physiology and evolution of ancient organisms through the study of their fossilized tissues' microstructure. Such discipline has been increasingly applied in vertebrate research over the years, however comprehensive and up‐to‐date methodological resources are lacking. In the specific, technical expedients associated with mammal research are little mentioned and some standards and protocols are still needed for the homogenization of paleohistological research.

This work includes a review and summary of current paleohistological techniques, and new proposals for the improvement of the most widely used protocols for the preparation and sectioning of hard tissues. We further expand the focus beyond the traditional techniques including expedients for dentognathic remains, fossil and extant.

The guide provided herein covers the techniques necessary to produce a paleohistological thin section, providing step‐by‐step instructions along with insights for technicians and both beginners and experienced scientists.

Although paleohistology is widely applied, its technical aspect is often overlooked. With this work, we considerably improve the learning process, help standardize paleohistological techniques and make them accessible to researchers, increasing scientists' awareness of thin‐sectioning techniques and encouraging the exploration of new methodologies in this field.
Social Support, Delivery Mode, and Cultural Factors in Twin Parents' Postpartum Depression: A Response to Egsgaard et al.
Authors: Wen Yu‐Ren , Wei Lien‐Chung
Published: December 2024

Background

Egsgaard et al. (2024) highlight the temporal patterns of postpartum depression (PPD) risk in twin parents versus singleton parents. However, additional factors such as social support systems, delivery mode, and cultural influences require exploration.

Purpose

To discuss the role of structured postpartum care, cesarean sections, and mother‐infant bonding in moderating PPD risk, especially within cultural contexts.

Conclusion

These factors may explain the gender‐specific temporal patterns observed by Egsgaard et al. Future research should integrate sociocultural and clinical variables to inform interventions for twin parents at risk of PPD.
Flexural properties and finite element analysis of novel 3D‐printed ceramic materials via 3D‐LCM technology
Authors: Alshamrani Abdullah , Fahimipour Amir , Alsarani Majed , Ellakwa Ayman
Published: December 2024

Background

This study evaluates the mechanical properties of dental crown prosthodontic materials by investigating the flexural strength and stress distribution of various ceramic materials, including milled zirconia and two ceramics fabricated using LCM technology, employing Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

Methods

Seventy‐five samples were divided into five groups: milled zirconia, Zirconia‐210, Zirconia‐230, Alumina‐350 and Alumina‐500. Flexural strength tests, including three‐point bending, Weibull analysis and FEA, were conducted to analyse stress distribution. Data were evaluated using one‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test.

Results

3D‐printed zirconia showed superior flexural strength compared to milled zirconia and alumina. Zirconia‐210 had the highest flexural strength (886.35 MPa), while Alumina‐350 had the lowest (424.49 MPa). Alumina‐350 exhibited higher von Mises stress (25.77 MPa) than the control group (22.83 MPa), whereas Alumina‐500 had the lowest stress (22.65 MPa). Zirconia models showed a slight increase in von Mises strain, while alumina models showed a decrease compared to the control.

Conclusion

Our study found that 3D‐printed zirconia displayed higher flexural strength when compared to milled zirconia and alumina. Moreover, there were noticeable variations in stress levels and strain behaviours observed in the materials.
How do Australian veterinarians perceive professional conduct in their profession?
Authors: Huang Q , Van Gelderen I
Published: December 2024

Objective

Professional skills required for meeting standards of veterinary professional conduct demanded by the public, colleagues and the community are recognised as being equally important to the technical skills required of a veterinarian. To reflect current standards in the profession, this project describes how Australian veterinarians perceive aspects of veterinary professional conduct.

Methods

Using an anonymous survey, opinions of Australian veterinarians were sought on perceptions of importance of professional conduct criteria derived from the eight standards listed in the Australian Veterinary Association's Code of Professional Conduct. Participants rated the importance of 15 statements on a six‐point Likert scale. Univariable analysis of 98 completed responses was conducted where impacts of age, gender, career stage and the industry on the dependent variable (response to each statement) were evaluated using ordinary logistic regression analysis in R studio where odd ratios (ORs) were determined, and significance was at P < 0.05.

Results

The statement revealing the highest mean score with respect to perceived importance was ‘that veterinarians hold the health, welfare and respectful treatment of animals as a key concern’. Results indicated high levels of consensus with nine of 15 statements revealing no significant differences based on age, gender, career stage, and for all statements no significant difference based on nature of work. Six statements demonstrating significant differences were based on either gender, age or career stage.

Conclusions

This study provides insights into how Australian veterinarians perceive professional conduct. Results provide an aid for future study development and contribute to the discussion of veterinary professionalism.
Expression of aquaporin and Na+/K+‐ATPase in gill and gut cells of the shrimp Palaemon argentinus regulated by ecdysone
Authors: Foguesatto Kamila , Almeida Celina C. , Boyle Robert T. , Nery Luiz E. M. , Souza Marta M.
Published: December 2024

The crustacean molting cycle is triggered by the elevation of ecdysteroid levels in the hemolymph during late pre‐molt. It is known that these animals absorb water through the intestine and gills to promote bodily swelling and rupture of the old exoskeleton. The participation of two membrane proteins responsible for the most uptake of water during the late pre‐molt has been shown in the gill and gut cells of the freshwater shrimp Palaemon argentinus: Na+/K+‐ATPase (NKA), which generates an osmoionic gradient, and Aquaporins (AQPs), water channels, which provide higher water permeability. Studies investigating the action of ecdysteroids on these proteins are scarce. Therefore, we investigated 20‐hydroxyecdisone (20E) in relation to the regulation of NKA and AQPs in the gill and gut cells of P. argentinus. We exposed primary cultures of both gut and gill cells to 20E. Gill cells treated with hormone in the presence of NKA‐blockers, exhibited a reduction in volume, and cells treated with 20E showed a greater expression of NKA than untreated cells. Additionally, gills cells treated with 20E showed an increase in volume (∼60%), which the aquaporin inhibitor (HgCl2) prevented. The participation of AQPs in the influx of water was corroborated by a greater expression of AQP in cells treated with 20E compared to untreated cells. Gut cells of animals in intermolt exposed to hormone (20E) maintained their initial cell volume. With the addition of HgCl2, these cells showed a reduction in volume similar to cells of animals in pre‐molt. Immunocytochemistry showed a high expression of AQP in gut cells treated with 20E. These findings suggest that 20E regulates the expression of AQP and NKA in the late pre‐molt, to provide water uptake for molting. This work offers new perspectives concerning the molting hormone, placing it as a crucial part of water uptake for ecdysis.
Risk of artery dissection during systemic exposure to vascular endothelial growth factor pathway inhibitors
Authors: Okui Jun , Waki Takashi , Kajiyama Kazuhiro , Sawada Sono , Watanabe Shinya , Namba Yukari , Kobayashi Ayano , Kawarasaki Shuichi , Amakasu Kohei , Iguchi Toyotaka , Horiuchi Naoya , Uyama Yoshiaki
Published: December 2024

Whether or not vascular endothelial growth factor pathway inhibitors (VPIs) increase the risk of artery dissection is still unknown. This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the possibility of artery dissection as a class effect of VPIs using nationwide real‐world data. This cohort study was conducted based on the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan (NDB), which spans nearly the entire Japanese population of over 100 million individuals. We included the patients prescribed with 12 types of VPIs between 2012 and 2020. The incidence rate (IR) ratio of artery dissection for each VPI were estimated in comparison with bevacizumab, the only VPI in Japan with artery dissection listed in the package insert. Artery dissection as an outcome was targeted for acute artery dissection requiring hospitalization (including dissecting aneurysm). As a reference, a natural IR standardized by sex and age of bevacizumab‐prescribed patients was also estimated using the direct method for the general population of NDB. Of 503,342 patients, the IR of artery dissection for bevacizumab was 44.4 (/100,000 person‐years), and the adjusted IR ratios for each VPI compared with bevacizumab were consistently similar to or >1.0. The IRs for each VPI were also higher than the crude natural IR (1.66/100,000 person‐years; 95% CI: 1.59–1.73) and the standardized natural IR (2.18/100,000 person‐years; 95% CI: 1.86–2.50). Real‐world evidence suggests the risk of artery dissection as a class effect of VPIs. More attention on this risk will be necessary when using VPIs in clinical practice.
Feasibility of implementing the elective oocyte cryopreservation in China: A case study
Authors: Xie Yijing , Zhai Xiaomei
Published: December 2024

In China, a prominent case exists wherein a medically fit woman filed a lawsuit against a hospital for denying her request to undergo oocyte cryopreservation. She contended the hospital had infringed upon her rights. This paper focuses on medicalization and gender equality to discuss whether or not a hospital can infringe upon a woman's rights. We believe elective oocyte cryopreservation is not a medical treatment and it may lead to an overwhelming utilization of extensive medical resources. Reproductive medicine may face the risk of resource commercialization due to the practice of selective egg freezing. There are physiological disparities between males and females. The ability of men to cryopreserve sperm does not necessarily extend to a woman's capacity for oocyte cryopreservation. We contend that the application of this technology should continue to adhere to the principle of prudence.
Safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of multiple‐dose noiiglutide (SHR20004), a novel GLP‐1 receptor agonist, in Chinese obese subjects without diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zou Yang , Jiang Fan , Sun Chan , Zhao Chunyang , Qian Hongjie , Jia Jingying , Yu Chen , Chen Hong , Wang Mingli , Chen Qian
Published: December 2024

Aims

This study aimed to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of noiiglutide (SHR20004), a novel glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, in Chinese obese participants without diabetes mellitus (DM).

Materials and Methods

This phase 1, randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study enrolled adult participants with body mass index (BMI) ≥28 kg/m2. The study used a titration method, each subject received daily noiiglutide injection for 3–6 weeks, until reaching the final dose of 0.18, 0.24, 0.30 or 0.36 mg per day. Each dose group consisted of 10 participants, with eight receiving noiiglutide and two receiving placebos. Safety assessments were conducted throughout the study, and pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were evaluated.

Results

Most treatment‐emergent adverse events were of mild to moderate in severity, with no serious adverse event or adverse event led to withdraw. Blood concentration of noiiglutide reached a steady state after daily administration for 4 days, with no significant accumulation. Mean elimination half‐life (t1/2) was between 9.90 and 11.8 h at steady state. At the end of treatment, the mean weight loss compared to baseline for the placebo group and each treatment group was −1.89, −3.26, −5.45, −4.35 and −7.46 kg respectively. The weight and BMI reductions observed in each noiiglutide treatment group were greater than those in the placebo group and exhibited an increasing trend with extended administration duration.

Conclusions

Daily administration of noiiglutide using a titration method was well tolerated by Chinese obese participants without DM and showed potential therapeutic effect for weight loss.
The role of the glucagon‐FGF21 axis in improving beta cell function during glucose intolerance and SGLT2 inhibition
Authors: Moreno‐Lopez Maria , Louvet Isaline , Delalleau Nathalie , Acosta‐Montalvo Ana , Thevenet Julien , Pasquetti Gianni , Gmyr Valery , Kerr‐Conte Julie , Pattou Francois , Bonner Caroline , Saponaro Chiara
Published: December 2024

Objective

Although primarily secreted by the liver, Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) is also expressed in the pancreas, where its function remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the role of the glucagon‐FGF21 interaction in the metabolic benefits of SGLT2 inhibition (SGLT2i) and hypothesizes it is key to enhancing glucose and lipid metabolism in individuals with glucose intolerance or type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

FGF21, FGF1R, and β‐klotho expression in human pancreas was analysed by RNAscope, qPCR and immunofluorescent techniques. Glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) assay was used to investigate the effects of recombinant FGF21 (rFGF21) on islets from donors with glucose intolerance or T2D. To explore the role of the glucagon‐FGF21 axis in the benefits of SGLT2i, we used WT and Sglt2 knockout (KO) mice fed a chow diet (CD) or a high‐fat diet (HFD) and chronically treated with vehicle or dapagliflozin.

Results

Chronic rFGF21 treatment enhanced GSIS in islets from donors with glucose intolerance, with increased FGFR1 expression, suggesting FGF21's greater efficacy in the early stages of disease. In diet‐induced insulin‐resistant mice, dapagliflozin reduced postprandial glycaemia and elevated plasma glucagon and FGF21 levels. Sglt2 KO mice on a CD showed increased fasting plasma glucagon without changes in FGF21. In diet‐induced insulin‐resistant Sglt2 KO mice, elevated glucagon and FGF21 levels paralleled chronic dapagliflozin treatment, indicating similar metabolic adaptations in both models.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate FGF21 as a crucial mediator in liver‐pancreas crosstalk, improving lipid and glucose metabolism, enhancing pancreatic function, and potentiating the therapeutic efficacy of SGLT2i, thereby representing a target for prediabetes treatment.
Intestinal mucosal immunity and type 1 diabetes: Non‐negligible communication between gut and pancreas
Authors: Liu Ruonan , Zhang Jing , Chen Si , Xiao Yang , Hu Jingyi , Zhou Zhiguang , Xie Lingxiang
Published: December 2024

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by T cell‐mediated pancreatic β cell loss, resulting in lifelong absolute insulin deficiency and hyperglycaemia. Environmental factors are recognized as a key contributor to the development of T1D, with the gut serving as a primary interface for environmental stimuli. Recent studies have revealed that the alterations in the intestinal microenvironment profoundly affect host immune responses, contributing to the aetiology and pathogenesis of T1D. However, the dominant intestinal immune cells and the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely elucidated. In this review, we provide an overview of the possible mechanisms of the intestinal mucosal system that underpin the pathogenesis of T1D, shedding light on the roles of both non‐classical and classical immune cells in T1D. Our goal is to gain insights into how modulating these immune components may hold potential implications for T1D prevention and provide novel perspectives for immune‐mediated therapy.
Increasingly Active Wildfire Seasons Threaten the Sustainability of Forest‐Backed Carbon Offset Programs
Authors: Badgley Grayson
Published: December 2024

In 2024, wildfires burned a record number of forests participating in California's forest offset program, exposing the danger of relying on forests to slow climate change. While California maintains a reserve of offset credits—known as a “buffer pool”—that is intended to safeguard against such carbon losses, the growing frequency, and severity of wildfires threatens to undermine the program's environmental goals.
Predictors for choosing doravirine‐based versus INSTI‐based regimen in ART‐naïve and ART‐experienced people with HIV in real‐world setting: Data from the Icona cohort
Authors: d'Arminio Monforte Antonella , Tavelli Alessandro , Quiros‐Roldan Eugenia , Fabbiani Massimiliano , Ferrara Micol , Lo Caputo Sergio , Squillace Nicola , Rusconi Stefano , Ponzano Marta , Bovis Francesca , Antinori Andrea , Saracino Annalisa , Cozzi‐Lepri Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Rationale

Doravirine (DOR) is an attractive new option both for ART‐naïve people with HIV (PWH) and those with suppressed HIV‐RNA who seek treatment simplification. We used real‐world data to examine the pattern of use of DOR‐containing regimens in these settings.

Methods

All PWH enrolled in the Icona cohort after January 2020 who initiated a three‐drug regimen (3‐DR) with DOR or an integrase inhibitor (INSTI)‐based regimen as first antiretroviral therapy (ART) or when switching ART, with HIV‐RNA ≤50 copies/mL, were included. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression models to identify demographic factors, immuno‐virological and laboratory markers associated with the prescription of 3‐DR DOR instead of INSTI‐based regimens.

Results

A total of 5803 PWH were included; 1958 were in the first regimen (80 DOR, 1,878 INSTI) and 3854 (387 DOR, 3,458 INSTI) were ART‐experienced virologically suppressed. In the first line, 3‐DR DOR was more frequently started in people who inject drugs, and its use was also associated with higher body mass index, higher low‐density lipoprotein levels, and less advanced HIV disease compared with PWH initiating an INSTI‐based regimen. In the switch setting, older age, Italian origin, higher estimated glomerular filtration rate and aspartate aminotransferase levels were all strongly associated with 3‐DR DOR use, as well as higher a CD4/CD8 ratio (only vs. 3‐DR INSTI), while the association with lipid abnormalities was attenuated.

Conclusions

Our analysis shows that among PWH in care in Italy, those with less advanced HIV disease but with other fragilities and potential risk factors for comorbidities are more likely to use DOR‐ than INSTI‐based regimens, regardless of prior treatment history.
Antifungal stewardship in Australian hospitals: defining the scope and future targets
Authors: Urbancic Karen F. , Kong David C. M. , Johnson Paul D. R. , Yong Michelle K. , Slavin Monica A. , Thursky Karin
Published: December 2024

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) guidelines now recommend antifungal stewardship (AFS) interventions to improve the management of invasive fungal diseases (IFDs). AFS programmes have not been reported in Australia.

Aims

To determine the monitoring of antifungal use, AFS strategies and targets, and barriers to AFS implementation in Australian hospitals.

Methods

An electronic quantitative cross‐sectional survey was developed and distributed to public and private hospitals in Australia in February 2018. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the findings.

Results

Eighty‐three Australian hospitals completed the survey with an overall response rate of 58% (83/143). Most hospitals monitored antifungal use (62/83, 75%). Frequently used AFS metrics included costs (48/60, 80%) and yearly point prevalence surveys (45/60, 75%). Core AFS strategies were commonly in place, including preauthorisation requirements (71/80, 89%) and expert antifungal post‐prescription review and feedback (PPRF) (63/80, 79%). Both these strategies were more strictly applied to high‐cost, intravenous agents. Formal education (44/79, 56%) and hospital‐endorsed guidelines (35/79, 44%) were modestly used. Fungal diagnostics and antifungal therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) were utilised, largely off site. IFD surveillance was infrequently performed (9/77, 12%). Barriers to AFS identified included lack of staff time, prioritisation of AFS, and access to rapid diagnostics and TDM.

Conclusions

AFS strategies utilised in Australian hospitals have focused on high‐cost, intravenous agents. Although expert oversight of antifungals is evident, many sites omit potentially important targets for AFS, including fluconazole and oral posaconazole. Identifying these gaps and barriers to AFS will guide the development of an AFS model for hospitals.
Emerging concepts of CMV in transplantation
Authors: Westall Glen P. , Gottlieb David , Hughes Peter , Marinelli Tina , Rawlinson William D. , Ritchie David , Sasadeusz Joe , Yong Michelle K.
Published: December 2024

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections continue to be associated with significant morbidity and mortality following solid organ transplantation and haemopoietic stem cell transplantation. Advances in understanding the biology of CMV in the immunosuppressed host will translate into improved management approaches and better clinical outcomes. Updated definitions of resistant and refractory CMV infections will lead to more consistent reporting of CMV outcomes, better inform appropriate antiviral strategies and influence clinical trial design. Improved knowledge of the immunological control of CMV in the immunosuppressed host has led to novel diagnostics, emerging therapeutic cellular therapies and the development of an informed rationale for prophylactic and pre‐emptive strategies. As the boundaries of transplantation are extended, new patterns of CMV infection are being recognised. Finally, recent studies support the use of novel antiviral therapies in transplant recipients in the appropriate clinical setting. In this review, we provide an update on important new and emerging concepts in the management of CMV in immunosuppressed transplant recipients.
Mechanical characteristics of dual‐phase medium‐entropy boride/carbide ceramics synthesized through SPS
Authors: Bayrak Kübra Gürcan , Umutlu Özge Nur , Koroglu Levent , Demir Burak
Published: December 2024

Material scientists constantly look for new compounds with exceptional properties to meet the ever‐changing technology and industry needs. Hereby, the dual‐phase medium‐entropy ceramics have fabricated by employing high‐energy ball milling (HEBM) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) techniques on commercial boride and carbide powders of IVB group metals. The boride and carbide powders have undergone 3‐hour milling in a planetary ball mill, followed by SPS processing at 1800°C and 2000°C under 30 MPa uniaxial pressure for 10 min. The milled powders and SPS'ed ceramics have been characterized, focusing on composition, density, and microstructure using X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Microhardness and sliding wear tests have also been performed on the SPS'ed ceramics. The systematic analysis of the characterization results has revealed that the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of the dual‐phase ceramics have developed to a comparable level with the single‐phase ceramics, regardless of the sintering temperature. In fact, the dual‐phase ceramics sintered at 1800°C come to the forefront due to the superior hardness and fracture toughness values (∼ 16 GPa and ∼ 5.4 MPa.m1/2).
An Evolutionary Concept Analysis of Spiritual Competence in Nursing
Authors: Alshakhshir Nadeen Sami , Ersig Anne L. , Ward Earlise , Hendricks‐Ferguson Verna L. , Montgomery Kathleen E.
Published: December 2024

Aims

Clarify the concept of spiritual competence in the context of nursing through evidence‐based extraction of attributes, antecedents and consequences.

Design

Concept analysis.

Methods

Rodgers' evolutionary method of concept analysis guided this analysis, and we followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.

Results

An analysis of 45 studies clarified the concept of spiritual competence in the context of nursing. Spiritual competence in nursing is a dynamic process that, once initiated by nurses' spiritual awareness, promotes their spiritual well‐being, their spiritual knowledge and skills and their sense of spiritual‐care self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

A comprehensive understanding and clear conceptual definition of the concept of spiritual competence in nursing will enable researchers to overcome barriers and foster nurses' development of spiritual competence to provide spiritual care in nursing.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

The clarified concept of spiritual competence in nursing can help to shape education and clinical‐training programs for nurses in a way that supports their ability to provide spiritual care and promote patient well‐being and positive health outcomes.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution was essential to the conduct of this research.
Exploration of the biological mechanisms of CENPA as an oncogene in glioma: Screening based on cancer functional status
Authors: Ling Yuanguo , Teng Wei , Long Niya , Qiu Wenjin , Wei Ruting , Hou Yunan , Jiang Lishi , Liu Jian , Zhou Xingwang , Chu Liangzhao
Published: December 2024

Glioma is the most common primary tumour in central nervous system, characterized by high invasiveness, a high recurrence rate and extremely poor prognosis. Machine learning based on cancer functional state helps to combine multi‐omics methods to screen for key gene, such as CENPA, that influences the phenotype of glioma and patients' prognosis. Based on 14 CFS, glioma was divided into three subtypes. Bioinformatics and machine learning methods were utilized to develop an enhanced prognostic prediction signature based on three subtypes. We selected CENPA as a hub biomarker and conducted in vitro experiments such as IHC, western blot, Coip, transwell, cck8, flow cytometry, scratch assay, qPCR, AlphaFold, MOE and in vivo experiments. We identified three subtypes of glioma based on the 14 CFS. The C subtype exhibits poor clinical outcomes, increased carbohydrate and nucleotide metabolism, high infiltration of immune cells, high CNV and tumour mutation burden (p < 0.05). The differential expression of gene between three subtypes were used to construct a novel signature with improved performance in prognostic prediction via machine learning. CENPA was selected as the hub gene, in vitro experiments such as ihc, western blot and qPCR showed that CENPA had high expression in tissues and cell lines (p < 0.05). The scratch assay, edu, cck8, flow cytometry and transwell after CENPA knockdown or overexpression had significant effects on the functions of glioma. Meanwhile, CENPA was regulated by EZH2 and influenced downstream wnt pathway, affecting phosphorylation of two sites, Ser675 and Ser552, on β‐catenin. The effect of CENPA knockdown was reversed by drug CHIR‐99021. Animal experiments indicated that the tumour volume of control and overexpression group increased faster, especially the overexpression group, which was significantly faster (p < 0.001). Machine learning based on CFS is beneficial for the selection of key genes and disease assessment. In glioma, CENPA is positively correlated with WHO grading at both the gene and protein levels, and high CENPA affects patients' poor prognosis. Regulating CENPA can affect functions of glioma, and these phenomena may act through the EZH2/CENPA/β‐catenin signalling axis. CENPA knockdown can be reversed by the drug CHIR‐99021. CENPA may become one of the therapeutic targets in glioma.
Daily fluctuations in adolescents' sleep predict next‐day attention, sleepiness, and fatigue: an ecological momentary assessment study over 28 days
Authors: Shen Lin , Nicolazzo Jessica , Sletten Tracey L. , Anderson Clare , Yap Yang , Wiley Joshua F. , Bei Bei
Published: December 2024

Background

Current understanding of the associations between adolescents' daily sleep and daytime alertness and fatigue under naturalistically occurring restricted (school) and unrestricted (vacation) sleep opportunities is limited.

Methods

A convenience sample of adolescents (n = 205; 54.1% females, Mage ± SD = 16.9 ± 0.87 years) completed daily measures of sleep, alertness, and fatigue over 28 days (2 weeks during school, and the subsequent 2‐week vacation). Actigraphy and sleep diary total sleep time (TST) and sleep efficiency (SE) were measured. Participants self‐reported sleepiness and fatigue every morning and afternoon, and completed a tablet‐based, 3.2‐min psychomotor vigilance task (PVT) every afternoon. Cross‐lagged multilevel models tested daily TST and SE as predictors of next‐day subjective sleepiness/fatigue and PVT performance. Between‐ (i.e., differences between individuals) and within‐person associations (i.e., whether nights with higher‐than‐individual's‐average TST/SE, predict next‐day outcomes) were tested simultaneously. Covariates included previous‐day outcome, day of the week, study day (1–28), school/vacation, chronotype, and sociodemographic variables.

Results

Within‐persons, higher‐than‐average TST and SE (both actigraphy and diary) predicted better next‐day PVT performance (all p ≤ .006), and lower subjective sleepiness and fatigue the following morning and afternoon (all p ≤ .032). Between‐persons, adolescents with higher overall diary SE had lower morning subjective sleepiness (p < .001) and fewer PVT false starts in the afternoon (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Nights with longer‐ and higher‐than‐average sleep efficiency (both actigraphy and diary) predicted better daytime alertness and fatigue, both when examined objectively via sustained attention and via self‐report. These findings are relevant for understanding the significance of sleep for adolescents' day‐to‐day alertness levels and fatigue, particularly in the context of classroom learning and road safety.