bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Age on the Characteristics of Corneal Nerves and Corneal Epithelial Cells in Healthy Adults
Authors: Chin Jia Ying , Liu Chang , Lee Isabelle Xin Yu , Lin Molly Tzu Yu , Cheng Ching-Yu , Wong Jipson Hon Fai , Teo Cong Ling , Mehta Jodhbir S. , Liu Yu-Chi
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to investigate age-related changes in corneal nerves and corneal epithelial cell parameters and to establish age-adjusted reference values.

Methods:

A total of 7025 corneal nerve images and 4215 corneal epithelial images obtained using in vivo confocal microscopy from 281 eyes of 143 healthy participants were included. Seven corneal nerve parameters and 3 corneal epithelial cell parameters were quantified using 2 automatic analytic software and analyzed across 6 age groups ranging from 21 to 80 years.

Results:

There was a declining trend in all 7 nerve parameters with advancing age. In particular, corneal nerve fiber length and corneal nerve fiber density demonstrated a significant decrease in subjects aged 65 years or older compared with subjects younger than 65 years (10.8 ± 2.6 mm/mm2 vs. 9.9 ± 2.0 mm/mm2, P = 0.011 in corneal nerve fiber length; 15.8 ± 5.2 fibers/mm2 vs. 14.4 ± 4.3 fibers/mm2, P = 0.046 in corneal nerve fiber density), whereas corneal nerve fractal dimension demonstrated a borderline significant decrease (P = 0.057). Similarly, there was a general declining trend in all epithelial cell parameters with advancing age. Corneal epithelial cell circularity was significantly lower in subjects aged 65 years and older as compared to subjects younger than 65 years (0.722 ± 0.021 μm2 vs. 0.714 ± 0.021 μm2; P = 0.011).

Conclusions:

Advancing age results in reduced corneal nerve metrics and alteration of corneal cell morphology. Aging effects should be considered when evaluating patients with corneal neuropathy.
Transient band keratopathy associated with epithelial ingrowth treated with antimetabolites
Authors: Frigoletto Evan , Amireskandari Annahita , Mauger Thomas
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

To report a case of visually significant band keratopathy associated with ocular inflammation in the setting of epithelial ingrowth, both of which resolved after repeated antimetabolite treatments.

Patient and Clinical Findings:

A 74-year-old woman with a history of uveitis–glaucoma–hyphema syndrome after complicated cataract surgery presented with epithelial ingrowth in the right eye and diffuse central band keratopathy after posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) removal and pars plana vitrectomy and anterior chamber IOL placement.

Diagnosis, Intervention, and Outcomes:

After multiple intraocular injections of antimetabolites, the epithelial ingrowth and visually significant band keratopathy resolved.

Conclusions:

Treating the underlying source of inflammation, such as epithelial ingrowth with antimetabolites, was associated with clearance of the band keratopathy without further intervention.
Metformin Protects Against Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Male Mice
Authors: Kennedy Catherine L. , Shuster Benjamin , Amanipour Reza , Milon Beatrice , Patel Priya , Elkon Ran , Hertzano Ronna
Published: August 2023

Hypothesis

Metformin treatment will protect mice from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Background

We recently identified metformin as the top-ranking, Food and Drug Administration–approved drug to counter inner ear molecular changes induced by permanent threshold shift–inducing noise. This study is designed to functionally test metformin as a potential otoprotective drug against NIHL.

Methods

Male and female B6CBAF1/J mice were obtained at 7 to 8 weeks of age. A cohort of the females underwent ovariectomy to simulate menopause and eliminate the effect of ovarian-derived estrogens. At 10 weeks of age, mice underwent a permanent threshold shift–inducing noise exposure (102.5 or 105 dB SPL, 8–16 kHz, 2 h). Auditory brainstem response (ABR) thresholds were obtained at baseline, 24 h after noise exposure, and 1 week after noise exposure. Mice were administered metformin (200 mg/kg/d) or a saline control in their drinking water after the baseline ABR and for the remainder of the study. After the 1-week ABR, mice were euthanized and cochlear tissue was analyzed.

Results

Metformin treatment reduced the 1-week ABR threshold shift at 16 kHz (p < 0.01; d = 1.20) and 24 kHz (p < 0.01; d = 1.15) as well as outer hair cell loss in the 32–45.5 kHz range (p < 0.0001; d = 2.37) in male mice. In contrast, metformin treatment did not prevent hearing loss or outer hair cell loss in the intact or ovariectomized female mice.

Conclusions

Metformin exhibits sex-dependent efficacy as a therapeutic for NIHL. These data compel continued investigation into metformin's protective effects and demonstrate the importance of evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of drugs in subjects of both sexes.
Effects of Early Vestibular Rehabilitation in Patients With Acute Vestibular Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kamo Tomohiko , Ogihara Hirofumi , Azami Masato , Momosaki Ryo , Fushiki Hiroaki
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To investigate the effect of early vestibular rehabilitation on physical function and dizziness in patients with acute vestibular disorders.

Databases Reviewed

The electronic databases examined included PubMed (MEDLINE), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE (via Dialog), and PEDro.

Methods

The inclusion criteria in terms of the study participants were patients 20 years and older with an acute unilateral peripheral vestibular disorder. We included individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cluster-RCTs, quasi-RCTs, and crossover trials. The outcomes were gait, balance (eyes open, eyes close), activities of daily living, dizziness, and vestibular function. Early vestibular rehabilitation was defined as rehabilitation within 14 days of vestibular disorder onset or surgery. Main outcome measures were gait, balance (eyes open, eyes close), activities of daily living, dizziness, and vestibular function.

Results

Twelve trials involving 542 participants were included. Early vestibular rehabilitation improved the Dizziness Handicap Inventory by −7.18 (95% confidence interval [CI], −10.48 to −3.88), balance during eyes close by −1.40 (95% CI, −2.42 to −0.39), and dizziness by −1.47 (95% CI, −2.74 to −0.21) compared with no intervention or placebo.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that early vestibular rehabilitation improved the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, balance (eyes close), and subjective dizziness in a patient with acute vestibular disorders. This result indicates that early vestibular rehabilitation can promote vestibular compensation.
Treatment of invasive candidiasis in the era of Candida resistance
Authors: Paiva José-Artur , Pereira José Manuel
Published: August 2023

Purpose of review

The increasing incidence of drug-resistant Candida brings a new challenge to the treatment of invasive candidiasis. Although cross-resistance among azoles and echinocandins was generally uncommon, reports of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Candida markedly increased in the last decade. The purpose of this review is to understand mechanisms and risk factors for resistance and how to tackle antifungal resistance.

Recent findings

The paper describes the action of the three main classes of antifungals - azoles, echinocandins and polyenes – and Candida's mechanisms of resistance. The current evolution from cross-resistance to multiresistance among Candida explains the modern glossary − multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and pandrug-resistant (PDR) – imported from bacteria. MDR Candida most commonly involves acquired resistance in species with intrinsic resistance, therefore it mostly involves C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, C guilliermondii or C. auris, which is intrinsically multidrug resistant. Finally, strategies to tackle antifungal resistance became clearer, ideally implemented through antifungal stewardship.

Avoiding antifungal's overuse and selecting the best drug, dose and duration, when they are needed, is fundamental. Knowledge of risk factors for resistance, microbiological diagnosis to the species, use of susceptibility test supported by antifungal stewardship programs help attaining effective therapy and sustaining the effectiveness of the current antifungal armamentarium.
Critical care for patients with substance use disorders
Authors: Steel Tessa L. , Bhatraju Elenore P. , Hills-Dunlap Kelsey
Published: August 2023

Purpose of review

To examine the impact of substance use disorders (SUDs) on critical illness and the role of critical care providers in treating SUDs. We discuss emerging evidence supporting hospital-based addiction treatment and highlight the clinical and research innovations needed to elevate the standards of care for patients with SUDs in the intensive care unit (ICU) amidst staggering individual and public health consequences.

Recent findings

Despite the rapid increase of SUDs in recent years, with growing implications for critical care, dedicated studies focused on ICU patients with SUDs remain scant. Available data demonstrate SUDs are major risk factors for the development and severity of critical illness and are associated with poor outcomes. ICU patients with SUDs experience mutually reinforcing effects of substance withdrawal and pain, which amplify risks and consequences of delirium, and complicate management of comorbid conditions. Hospital-based addiction treatment can dramatically improve the health outcomes of hospitalized patients with SUDs and should begin in the ICU.

SUDs have a significant impact on critical illness and post-ICU outcomes. High-quality cohort and treatment studies designed specifically for ICU patients with SUDs are needed to define best practices and improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Physical rehabilitation, mobilization and patient-centred outcomes: what is new?
Authors: Broadley Tessa , Higgins Alisa , Hodgson Carol
Published: August 2023

Purpose of review

Physical rehabilitation and mobilization interventions aim to reduce the incidence of intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired weakness and subsequently reduce morbidity in critically ill patients. This chapter will explore the evidence for physical rehabilitation and mobilization with an emphasis on patient-centred outcomes selected in randomized controlled trials. This is particularly pertinent at a time when clinicians are deciding how to implement physical rehabilitation and mobilization into the treatment of critically ill patients.

Recent findings

Multiple trials of physical rehabilitation and mobilization were published in 2022 and 2023 with conflicting results. Analysing the complexities of physical rehabilitation research provides an insight into these results and will aid in the interpretation of trials of physical rehabilitation and mobilization.

Patient-centred outcomes are often utilized in physical rehabilitation and mobilization research, but this does not automatically correspond to an increase in research quality. Improving consistency in trials of physical rehabilitation will aid in the interpretation and translation of physical rehabilitation research.
Severe community-acquired pneumonia in the post COVID-19 era
Authors: Ruiz-Spinelli Alfonsina , Waterer Grant , Rello Jordi
Published: August 2023

Purpose of review

The aim was to examine and summarize the most recent published literature in the last years stating the advances for treatment options and adjunctive therapies in patients hospitalized with severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP). Search was performed in PubMed, including observational studies, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and international guidelines.

Recent findings

Regardless of a large number of published CAP guidelines, most of their recommendations are based on low-level evidence.

Viruses have an increasing role as sCAP etiology with an impact on mortality. Accordingly, it is imperative to strengthen the demand for vaccines and newer antivirals. Considering an early monitoring of the immune response in patients with severe Influenza, may help to evaluate a personalized immunomodulatory strategy. Despite growing evidence, the use of corticosteroids as an adjunctive therapy in bacterial sCAP continues to be controversial.

Mortality due to sCAP still remains undesirably high. This fact strengthens the need for more high-quality research to increase evidence. It also highlights the need for clinicians to be aware of the level of evidence of the stated recommendations, taking this into consideration before decision making.
Severe meningoencephalitis: epidemiology and outcomes
Authors: Thy Michael , de Montmollin Etienne , Bouadma Lila , Timsit Jean-François , Sonneville Romain
Published: August 2023

Purpose of review

This article aims to provide an updated review on the epidemiology and outcomes of severe meningoencephalitis.

Recent findings

Meningoencephalitis is a critical medical condition characterized by inflammation in both the meninges and brain parenchyma. Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections are common causes, although noninfectious factors, such as autoimmune causes, can also contribute. In patients requiring intensive care, meningoencephalitis is associated with a severe prognosis, including mortality rates ranging from 11 to 25% and functional disability in 15–25% of survivors. Recent multicenter studies have identified several parameters linked to poor outcomes, including older age, immunocompromised status, focal neurologic signs, abnormal brain imaging, and delayed administration of antimicrobials. The use of new multiplex PCR techniques for diagnosis has generated debate based on recent data. Investigation is still needed to determine the effectiveness of adjunctive therapies, including seizure prophylaxis, and adjunctive steroids for nonbacterial causes.

Recent multicenter studies have enhanced our understanding of the current epidemiology and outcomes of severe meningoencephalitis in adult patients.
Association of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with colorectal adenomatous polyps and non-adenomatous polyps: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yang Yingxue , Teng Yajie , Shi Jiayi , Xu Jianhao , Bao Jie , Zhang Xia , Wang Qinghua
Published: August 2023

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the association between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and both colorectal adenomatous polyps and non-

adenomatous polyps, in order to provide evidence for the prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with NAFLD.

Methods

A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at the First People’s Hospital of Kunshan, Jiangsu, China. The study included 3028 adults who underwent abdominal ultrasonography and colonoscopy over a 5 year period. We compared characteristics among patients with adenomatous polyps, non-adenomatous polyps, and without colorectal polyps using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression analyses were used to detect associations between NAFLD with the prevalence of adenomatous polyps and non-adenomatous polyps. NAFLD was determined by abdominal ultrasound. Colorectal polyps were assessed by data in the colonoscopy report and pathology report.

Results

A total of 65% of patients with NAFLD had colorectal polys (52% adenomatous polyps and 13% non-adenomatous polyps), and 40% of patients without NAFLD had polyps (29% adenomatous polyps and 11% non-adenomatous polyps). After adjusting for confounding variables, NAFLD was significantly associated with the prevalence of adenomatous in males and females [odds ratio (OR) = 1.8, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6–2.2, P < 0.01], but was not associated with non-adenomatous polyps (OR = 1.2, 95% CI:0.9–1.5, P > 0.05).

Conclusion

NAFLD is associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenomatous polyps compared to the absence of polyps, but not associated with an increased risk of non-adenomatous polyps. These results provide important evidence for the prevention of CRC in patients with NAFLD.
The Business of Health Care
Authors: Patton Harold “Pat”
Published: August 2023

Nurse leaders need to continue to think innovatively and help improve the bottom line at their organizations and at the same time be concerned with nurse retention. Virtual nursing is one such approach that will help achieve both results. Nurse leaders must also know how to bring forth a return on investment in order to receive the funding to try innovative approaches to staffing.
Pediatric Facial Burns and Consumer Products: A Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Hauc Sacha C. , Ihnat Jacqueline M. , Stögner Viola Antonia , Williams Mica , Rivera Jean C. , Hosseini Helia , Huelsboemer Lioba , Alperovich Michael
Published: August 2023

Pediatric facial burns pose significant challenges in terms of physical, psychological, and social impacts on children. Understanding the causes of these burns is crucial for prevention and appropriate care. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of causes and preventive measures related to pediatric facial burns caused by consumer products. Using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) from 2012 to 2021, we analyzed 130,461 cases of pediatric facial burns. Common causes included household items such as cleaning supplies, hot water, kitchen appliances, and health and beauty products. Differences in burn causes were observed between genders, with boys more prone to burns from welding equipment, gasoline, and grills, while girls were more susceptible to burns from hair curling equipment, candles, and health and beauty products. The mean age of children burned by different items varied, highlighting the need for age-appropriate preventive measures. The authors discuss the importance of caregiver education, safe storage practices, supervision, and clear communication in preventing pediatric facial burns. By raising awareness of potential burn sources and implementing preventive strategies, the incidence of pediatric facial burns can be significantly reduced.
Olfactory Groove Schwannoma or Olfactory Ensheathing cell Tumor?
Authors: Guo Wenqiang , Liu Zhirui , Wang Zhigang , Tian Hailong , Zi Xicun
Published: August 2023

Background:

Schwannomas are benign tumors that arise from Schwann cells. Rare cases are shown to arise from the olfactory nerve. The genesis of Olfactory groove schwannoma (OGSs) is still puzzling. Yusda et al hypothesized that olfactory ensheathing cell tumors (OECTs) might be the origin of OGSs.

Clinical Presentation:

Here, the authors report the case of a 59-year-old woman who presented with a paroxysmal headache for 1 year. The tumor appeared as hypointensity on T1-weighted images, hyperintensity on T2-weighted, and exhibited strong, heterogeneous enhancement. The tumor was removed through a lateral supraorbital approach. The final pathologic diagnosis was schwannoma. The postoperative period was uneventful after 4 months, and the headache disappeared.

Disscussion and Conclusion:

OGSs and OECTs are extremely rare. There are many similarities in clinical manifestations, images, and pathologic findings. OGSs are difficult to distinguish from OECTs.
Drainage of a Pterygopalatine Fossa Abscess With Chronic Sinusitis via an Endoscopic Nasal Approach
Authors: Lee Hyun Su , Kim Minheon , Kwon Dong Hwan , Lee Young-Ha , Lee Eun Jung
Published: August 2023

The pterygopalatine fossa is a clinically inaccessible space deep in the face, and reports of pterygopalatine fossa abscesses are rare. The authors present the case of a 63-year-old woman presenting with a severe headache owing to an abscess involving the pterygopalatine fossa. On a computed tomography scan, inflammation of the right pterygopalatine fossa associated with right maxillary sinusitis and periapical inflammation and a cystic lesion around the tooth were observed. After administering appropriate antibiotics, the headache improved considerably, and endoscopic nasal surgery resulted in adequate abscess drainage. To the authors’ knowledge, this case study is one of the few reporting the successful treatment of an abscess in the pterygopalatine fossa through an endoscopic transnasal approach.
Analysis of Individual Components of Frailty in Simultaneous Pancreas and Kidney, and Solitary Pancreas Transplant Recipients
Authors: Parajuli Sandesh , Odorico Jon , Breyer Isabel , Zona Emily , Aziz Fahad , Lorden Heather , Garonzik-Wang Jacqueline , Kaufman Dixon , Mandelbrot Didier
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds:

It is not known which of the 5 components of the Fried frailty score have the most predictive value for outcomes in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant (SPK) and solitary pancreas transplant (SPT) recipients.

Methods:

In this study, we sought to investigate the association between pretransplant overall frailty and individual frailty components, with posttransplant outcomes among SPK and SPT recipients. Outcomes of interest were length of stay, kidney delayed graft function (K-DGF), readmission within 30 d after discharge, cardiovascular events, acute rejection, pancreas death-censored graft failure (DCGF), kidney DCGF, and death.

Results:

Of the individual frailty components among SPK (n = 113), only slow walk time was associated with an increased risk of mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.99; P = 0.03). Among SPT (n = 49), higher sum frailty scores (coefficient correlation 0.29; P = 0.04) and weight loss (coefficient correlation  = 0.30; P = 0.03) were associated with prolonged length of stay. Similarly, weight loss among SPT was associated with an increased risk of DCGF (aOR: 4.34; P = 0.049). Low grip strength was strongly associated with an increased risk of early readmission (aOR: 13.08; P = 0.008).

Conclusions:

We found that not all components of frailty contribute equally to predicting outcomes. Objective measurements of slow walk time, unintentional weight loss, and low grip strength were found to be associated with less optimal outcomes in pancreas transplant recipients. Targeted interventions may improve posttransplant outcomes.
Medium-term scenarios of COVID-19 as a function of immune uncertainties and chronic disease
Authors: Saad-Roy Chadi M. , Morris Sinead E. , Baker Rachel E. , Farrar Jeremy , Graham Andrea L. , Levin Simon A. , Wagner Caroline E. , Metcalf C. Jessica. E. , Grenfell Bryan T.
Published: August 2023

As the SARS-CoV-2 trajectory continues, the longer-term immuno-epidemiology of COVID-19, the dynamics of Long COVID, and the impact of escape variants are important outstanding questions. We examine these remaining uncertainties with a simple modelling framework that accounts for multiple (antigenic) exposures via infection or vaccination. If immunity (to infection or Long COVID) accumulates rapidly with the valency of exposure, we find that infection levels and the burden of Long COVID are markedly reduced in the medium term. More pessimistic assumptions on host adaptive immune responses illustrate that the longer-term burden of COVID-19 may be elevated for years to come. However, we also find that these outcomes could be mitigated by the eventual introduction of a vaccine eliciting robust (i.e. durable, transmission-blocking and/or ‘evolution-proof’) immunity. Overall, our work stresses the wide range of future scenarios that still remain, the importance of collecting real-world epidemiological data to identify likely outcomes, and the crucial need for the development of a highly effective transmission-blocking, durable and broadly protective vaccine.
University student-led public engagement event: increasing audience diversity and impact in a non-science space
Authors: Lacey Melissa M. , Capper-Parkin Kelly , Schwartz-Narbonne Rachel , Hargreaves Kate , Higham Catherine , Duckett Catherine , Forbes Sarah , Rawlinson Katherine
Published: August 2023

There is a wealth of innovation in microbiology outreach events globally, including in the setting where the public engagement is hosted. Previous data indicate an underrepresentation of marginalized ethnic groups attending UK science-based public engagement events. This project engaged our student cohort, encompassing a diverse range of ethnic groups, to create an integrated art and science event within an existing series of adult education evenings. The study’s objectives were to increase the proportion of visitors from marginalized ethnic groups and to gain a greater understanding of the impact of the event on the visitors’ reported science capital. The participants’ demographics, links to our students and University, and detailed impact on participants’ science capital of the event were determined through analysis of exit questionnaires. There was an increase in the proportion of marginalized ethnic group visitors compared to similar previous events. A higher proportion of visitors from marginalized ethnic groups had links with our students and University compared to white/white British visitors. Elements of the exit questionnaire were mapped to the science capital framework and participants’ science capital was determined. Both ethnically marginalized participants and white/white British visitors showed an increase in science capital, specifically dimensions of science-related social capital and science-related cultural capital, after the event. In conclusion, our study suggests that a student-led blended art and science public engagement can increase the ethnic diversity of those attending and can contribute towards creating more inclusive public engagement events.
Monitoring and Tracking the Spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Asturias, Spain
Authors: Gonzalez-Alba Jose Maria , Rojo-Alba Susana , Perez-Martinez Zulema , Boga Jose A. , Alvarez-Arguelles Marta Elena , Gomez Juan , Herrero Pablo , Costales Isabel , Alba Luz Maria , Martin-Rodriguez Gabriel , Campo Rainer , Castelló-Abietar Cristian , Sandoval Marta , Abreu-Salinas Fátima , Coto Eliecer , Rodriguez Mercedes , Rubianes Pablo , Sanchez Maria Luisa , Vazquez Fernando , Antuña Luis , Álvarez Victoria , Melón García Santiago
Published: August 2023

Mutational analysis of SARS-CoV-2 can quantify their relative importance over time, enable the dominant mutations to be identified and facilitate near real-time detection, comparison, and tracking of evolving variants. Collected samples in Asturias an autonomous community of Spain with a large aged population, and high levels of migration and tourism was monitored and tracked from its beginning in February 2020 until its decline and stabilization in August 2021, were characterized using whole genomic sequence and single nucleotide polymorphism. Data held in the GISAID database was analyzed to establish patterns in the appearance and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 strains. Only 138 non-synonymous mutations occurring in more than 1% of the population of SARS-CoV-2 were found, identifying 10 major variants worldwide (7 arose before January 2021), 19 regional and 1 local. In Asturias only 17 different variants were found. After vaccination, no further regional majority variants were found. Only half of the defined variants circulated and no new variants were generated, indicating that infection control measures (fast diagnosis, prevention measures and vaccination) were efficient.
A frontal cortical network is critical for language planning during spoken interaction
Authors: Castellucci Gregg A. , Kovach Christopher K. , Tabasi Farhad , Christianson David , Greenlee Jeremy D.W. , Long Michael A.
Published: August 2023

Many brain areas exhibit activity correlated with language planning1–9, but the impact of these dynamics on spoken interaction remains unclear. Here we use direct electrical stimulation to transiently perturb cortical function in neurosurgical patient-volunteers performing a question-answer task10. Stimulating structures involved in speech motor function evoked diverse articulatory deficits, while perturbations of caudal inferior and middle frontal gyri – which exhibit preparatory activity during conversational turn-taking – led to response errors. Perturbation of the same planning-related frontal regions slowed inter-speaker timing, while faster responses could result from stimulation of sites located in other areas. Taken together, these findings further indicate that caudal inferior and middle frontal gyri constitute a critical planning network essential for interactive language use1.
Self-assembly vascularized human cardiac organoids model cardiac diseases in petri dishes and in mice
Authors: Zhong Qixing , He Yao , Teng Li , Zhang Yinqian , Zhang Ting , Zhang Yinbing , Li Qinxi , Zhao Bangcheng , Chen Daojun , Zhong Zhihui
Published: August 2023

In this study, we generated self-assembly cardiac organoids (COs) from human pluripotent stem cells by dual-phase modulation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, utilizing CHIR99021 and IWR-1-endo. The resulting COs exhibited a diverse array of cardiac-specific cell lineages, cardiac cavity-like structures and demonstrated the capacity of spontaneous beating and vascularizationin vitro. We further employed these complex and functional COs to replicate conditions akin to human myocardial infarction and SARS-CoV-2 induced fibrosis. These models accurately captured the pathological characteristics of these diseases, in bothin vitroandin vivosettings. In addition, we transplanted the COs into NOD SCID mice and observed that they survived and exhibited ongoing expansionin vivo.Impressively, over a span of 75-day transplantation, these COs not only established blood vessel-like structures but also integrated with the host mice’s vascular system. It is noteworthy that these COs developed to a size of approximately 8 mm in diameter, slightly surpassing the dimensions of the mouse heart. This innovative research highlighted the potential of our COs as a promising avenue for cardiovascular research and therapeutic exploration.
Local organization of spatial and shape information in the primate prefrontal cortex
Authors: Sun Yunyi , Dang Wenhao , Jaffe Rye G. , Constantinidis Christos
Published: August 2023

The current understanding of sensory and motor cortical areas has been defined by the existence of topographical maps across the brain surface, however, higher cortical areas, such as the prefrontal cortex, seem to lack an equivalent organization, and only limited evidence of functional clustering of neurons with similar stimulus properties is evident in them. We thus sought to examine whether neurons that represent similar spatial and object information are clustered in the monkey prefrontal cortex and whether such an organization only emerges as a result of training. To this end, we analyzed neurophysiological recordings from male macaque monkeys before and after training in spatial and shape working memory tasks. Neurons with similar spatial or shape selectivity were more likely than chance to be encountered at short distances from each other. Some aspects of organization were present even in naïve animals, however other changes appeared after cognitive training. Our results reveal that prefrontal microstructure automatically supports orderly representations of spatial and object information.
The ubiquitin ligase UBR-1 regulates the synaptic strength between the GABAergic and glutamatergic signaling
Authors: Li Yi , Chitturi Jyothsna , Yu Bin , Zhang Yongning , Wu Jing , Ti Panpan , Hung Wesley , Zhen Mei , Gao Shangbang
Published: August 2023

Excitation/Inhibition (E/I) balance is carefully maintained by the nervous system. Neurotransmitter GABA has been reported to be co-released with its sole precursor, another neurotransmitter glutamate. The genetic and circuitry mechanisms to establish the balance between GABAergic and Glutamatergic signaling have not fully elucidated.C. elegansDVB is a classically defined excitatory GABAergic motoneuron that drives the expulsion step in defecation motor program. We show that in addition to UNC-47, the vesicular GABA transporter, DVB also expresses EAT-4, a vesicular glutamate transporter. UBR-1, a conserved ubiquitin ligase, regulates the DVB activity by suppressing a bidirectional inhibitory glutamate signaling. Loss of UBR-1 impairs the DVB Ca2+activity and the expulsion frequency. These impairments are fully compensated by the knock-down of EAT-4 in DVB. Further, glutamate-gated chloride channels GLC-3 and GLC-2/4 receive DVB’s glutamate signals to inhibit DVB and enteric muscle, respectively. These results implicate an intrinsic cellular mechanism that promotes the inherent asymmetric neural activity. We propose that the elevated glutamate inubr-1being the cause of the E/I shift, potentially contributes to the Johanson Blizzard Syndrome.
Sensitization with an allogeneic MHC class I molecule induces anti-tumor immunity in the absence of PD-1 in mice
Authors: Paramitasari Komang Alit , Ishida Yasumasa
Published: August 2023

To investigate the effect of a major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) overexpression to augment immune sensitivity against tumors, we have generated the murine colorectal carcinoma cell line MC38 (with the endogenous H-2bhaplotype) overexpressing the allogeneic mouse MHC-I cell surface molecule H-2Kd(MC38 H-2Kd). The tumorigenicity of unmodified parental cells (MC38 PT) and MC38 H-2Kdwas testedin vivoby subcutaneous injection into the flank of wild-type (WT) and programmed death-1 (PD-1) knockout (KO) mice in a C57BL/6 (H-2b) genetic background. MC38 PT cells readily formed tumors and grew progressively in both WT and PD-1 KO mice. The speed of MC38 PT tumor growth was slower in PD-1 KO mice than in WT mice. In contrast, MC38 H-2Kdcells showed full sensitivity to rejection by the immune system in both naïve WT and PD-1 KO mice, indicated by spontaneous tumor regression. Next, we sought to determine the extent to which H-2Kd-overexpressing tumors could protect the mice against unmodified cancers. PD-1 KO mice were first sensitized with highly immunogenic MC38 H-2Kdcells and then challenged with weakly immunogenic MC38 PT cells. Intriguingly, all PD-1 KO mice gained immunity against the aggressive MC38 tumor and became tumor-free. Sensitizing PD-1 KO mice with growth-arrested (by the pre-treatment with mitomycin C, MMC) and the debris of MC38 H-2Kdtumors also provided full protection against the growth of secondary MC38 PT tumors. Most notably, sensitization with the debris of MC38 H-2Kdcells provided the long-term immunological memory against MC38 PT carcinoma cells. This finding implies that MC38 H-2Kdcells retain highly efficient and durable immunogenicity.
Environmental surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 for outbreak detection in hospital: A single centre prospective study
Authors: Ray Prachi , Lim Bryant , Zorcic Katarina , Johnstone Jennie , Hinz Aaron , Hicks Alexandra M.A. , Wong Alex , MacFadden Derek R. , Nott Caroline , Castellani Lucas , Kassen Rees , Fralick Michael
Published: August 2023

Identifying COVID-19 outbreaks in hospitals at an early stage requires active surveillance. Our objective was to assess whether floor swabs correlated with COVID-19 outbreak status in hospital. We swabbed the floors of an inpatient ward at Mount Sinai Hospital for 32 weeks, from October 31, 2022 to June 15, 2023 and RT-qPCR analysis provided a quantification cycle of detection for each positive swab. 182 swabs were processed for SARS CoV-2, of which 98.4% were positive. Two COVID-19 outbreaks were declared during the study period. The median viral copy number was 210 (IQR, 49 to 1018) during non-outbreak periods and 653 (IQR, 300 to 1754) during outbreak periods. Analyzing the number of viral copies of SARS-CoV-2, instead of percentage positivity, gave a clearer view of changes in outbreak status over time, thereby illustrating the benefits of this approach to monitor pathogen load in hospital settings.
kMermaid: Ultrafast functional classification of microbial reads
Authors: Lucas Anastasia , Schäffer Daniel E. , Wickramasinghe Jayamanna , Auslander Noam
Published: August 2023

Shotgun metagenomic sequencing can determine both taxonomic and functional content of microbiomes. However, current functional classification methods for metagenomic reads require substantial computational resources and yield ambiguous classifications, limiting downstream quantitative analyses. Existingk-mer based methods to classify microbial sequences into species-level groups have immensely improved taxonomic classification, but this concept has not been extended to functional classification. Here we introducekMermaid, for classifying metagenomic reads into functional clusters of proteins. Using proteink-mers,kMermaid allows for highly accurate and ultrafast functional classification, with a fixed memory usage, and can easily be employed on a typical computer.
Leveraging gamification to enhance productivity and employee engagement in the Nigerian construction industry
Authors: Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Aliu John , Mwanaumo Erastus Misheng'u M. , Abayomi Timilehin , Kahanji Charles
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This article aims to investigate the various applications of gamification practices in the construction industry, with a focus on improving safety and quality, project management, innovation and productivity and workforce development.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify several construction areas where gamification can be employed, which helped in formulating a questionnaire survey. The survey was disseminated to construction professionals in the Nigerian construction industry using a convenience sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed using a variety of statistical tools such as percentages, frequencies, mean item scores and exploratory factor analyses. Additionally, cluster analysis was performed to obtain a more comprehensive analysis of these application areas.

Findings

Four key clusters of gamification areas of application in the Nigerian construction industry were identified – safety and quality, project management, innovation and efficiency and workforce development. By integrating game elements into these critical areas, construction organizations in Nigeria can enhance worker engagement, increase productivity and improve safety, ultimately leading to better project outcomes.

Practical implications

The identification and evaluation of the gamification areas of application in the construction industry would help construction organizations and stakeholders make informed decisions regarding the integration of game elements into critical areas such as safety and quality, project management, innovation and efficiency and workforce development.

Originality/value

The study provides valuable information for construction organizations and stakeholders looking to enhance worker engagement, increase productivity and improve safety in their projects through gamification. It also adds to the growing body of research on the use of gamification in various industries and provides a foundation for further studies in this area.
Exploring consumers' attitude and intent to purchase organic food in an emerging market context: a pre-/post COVID-19 pandemic analysis
Authors: Chetioui Youssef , Butt Irfan , Lebdaoui Hind , Neville Mary Grace , El Bouzidi Laila
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the upward trend of organic food (OF) consumption is no longer restrained to western markets but has also extended to emerging markets in different parts of the world. Still, extent post-pandemic literature has devoted little attention to the factors shaping consumers' intent to purchase organic food in developing markets. The current research empirically investigates the antecedents of consumers' attitude and intent to purchase organic food in an emerging market context (i.e. Morocco). This research also explores the differences between OF consumers' manifest attitudes prior to and following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the study's objectives, data were collected from 1,060 Moroccan respondents using online self-administered questionnaires in two different eras: prior to the COVID-19 pandemic with a total of 441 valid responses and following the pandemic with 619 valid responses. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was employed to validate the data, and a partial least squares (PLS) estimation was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

First, attitude towards OF has a significant impact on consumers' purchase intention; at the same time, it is influenced by subjective norms, organic labeling, perceived behavioral control, health consciousness, and environmental concern. This study's findings also suggest subjective norms, organic labeling, perceived behavioral control, health consciousness, environmental concern, age, and income as the key determinants of consumers' intention to purchase OF. Second, the IPMA analysis suggests that while health consciousness, organic labeling and perceived behavioral control are the most important constructs influencing attitude towards OF, consumers' purchase intention is mostly influenced by health consciousness, attitude towards OF and age. Finally, the PLS-Multigroup Analysis conveyed few discrepancies in the results when comparing the two eras (i.e. subjective norms and age had more significant impacts on consumers' purchase intent following the COVID-19 pandemic).

Practical implications

This study provides organic food retailers and practitioners with a deeper understanding of the key aspects shaping consumers' intent to purchase organic products in emerging markets. The comparative analysis will also provide important insights on how to shape consumers' attitudes and purchase intentions in a new-normal marked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originality/value

This study's findings contribute to the growing literature on consumers' behavior in the organic food industry, particularly in developing countries where research is still narrow. This study's study is the first of its kind to compare consumers' intention to purchase organic food before and following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Salespeople’s sales performance skills in B2B of services firms – a cross-industrial study
Authors: Høgevold Nils , Rodriguez Rocio , Svensson Göran , Otero-Neira Carmen
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the role of salespeople’s skills in relative and absolute SP in business-to-business (B2B) settings of services firms. This conceptual logic reported in meta-analytical works, that salespeople’s skills relate directly to their sales performance (SP), is questioned.

Design/methodology/approach

his research relies on existing theory and previous studies on SP drivers and SP measures. The literature identifies a set of common denominators on the role of salespeople’s skills regarding their SP, all of which are tested in this study. Based on a deductive approach and questionnaire survey, 732 service firms in Norway were targeted. A total of 389 questionnaires were returned, generating a response rate of 53.1%.

Findings

A total of 10 out of 12 hypothesized relationships in the research model dealing with the relationship between SP drivers and SP turn out to be non-significant. The hypothesized relationship in the research model between relative and absolute SP is also supported.

Research limitations/implications

The results reported in this study, based on a large sample of service firms, empirically confirm that the direct effect is generally overestimated. Empirical evidence is provided that sheds additional light on the role of salespeople’s skills in relative and absolute SP in B2B settings of services firms.

Practical implications

This study offers meaningful and relevant insights into the monitoring of SP drivers to practitioners in B2B sales settings of services firms. Salespeople need to learn about gathering knowledge in training programs about each customer and their specific situation. Firms should strive to recruit salespeople who possess the appropriate skills, taking into consideration their customers and specific situations related to them, such as experiences from competitors. Salespeople may be organized around similar customers and similar customer situations, rather than geographical assignments.

Originality/value

Overall, this research contributes insights into the role played by salespeople’s skills in relative and absolute SP in B2B settings of services firms. In particular, the research contributes additional insights into the non-existent role of interpersonal presentation and communication skills, adaptiveness of sales approach and sales behavior skills and product/technology-related knowledge skills in salespeople’s relative and absolute SP in B2B settings of services firms.
Stigma in payday borrowing: a service ecosystems approach
Authors: Apostolidis Chrysostomos , Brown Jane , Farquhar Jillian
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore stigma in payday borrowing by investigating how the stigma associated with using such a service may spill over and affect other people, entities and relationships beyond the user within a service ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews exploring consumers’ lived experiences and stigma were combined with publicly available reports from key stakeholders within the payday loan (PDL) industry to create a qualitative, text-based data set. The transcripts and reports were then analysed following thematic protocols.

Findings

Analysis reveals that the stigma associated with using a stigmatised service spills over, affecting not only the borrower but other actors within the service ecosystem. The analysis uncovers three important interactions that spilled over between the actors within the stigmatised service ecosystem (SSE), which can be damaging, enabling or concealed.

Research limitations/implications

This study introduces and explores the concept of “SSEs” and investigates the impact of stigma beyond the dyadic relationships between service providers and users to consider the actors within the wider ecosystem. The findings reframe existing understandings about stigma, as this study finds that stigmatised services can play both a positive (enabling) and a negative (damaging) role within an ecosystem, and this study uncovers the role of stigma concealments and how they can affect relationships and value co-creation among different actors.

Practical implications

This study provides evidence for more robust policies for addressing stigma in different SSEs by mapping the effects of stigma spillover and its effects on the borrower and other actors.

Originality/value

This study contributes to reframing marketing priorities by extending existing work on consumer stigma by showing how the stigma of a PDL may spill over and affect other actors within a service ecosystem. Significantly, the interactions between the actors may have positive as well as negative outcomes.