bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balloon guide catheter versus different sizes of non-balloon guide catheter; a MR CLEAN Registry analysis
Authors: Knapen Robrecht R.M.M. , Goldhoorn Robert-Jan B. , Hofmeijer Jeannette , Lycklamaà Nijeholt Geert J. , van den Berg René , van den Wijngaard Ido R. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , van Zwam Wim H. , van der Leij Christiaan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Balloon guide catheters (BGC) are used to prevent distal emboli during endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke. Although literature reports benefit of BGC, these are not universally used and randomized head-to-head comparisons are lacking. This study compared functional, safety, and technical outcomes between patients treated with different sizes non-BGC and with BGC during EVT in a nationwide prospective multicenter registry.

Methods

Patients from the MR CLEAN Registry (2014–2018), who underwent EVT with a 5-7French (Fr) non-BGC, a 8-9Fr non-BGC, or a 8-9Fr BGC were included. Primary outcome was the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days, secondary outcomes included procedure time and first-attempt successful reperfusion (eTICI ≥ 2C). Treatment-effect modification and subgroups were analyzed according to first-line thrombectomy technique: stent retriever (SR) or direct aspiration (ASP).

Results

In total 2808 patients were included, and 1671 (60%) were treated with 8-9Fr BGC. Overall, no significant differences in clinical outcome were seen between non-BGC and BGC groups. The 8-9Fr non-BGC was associated with lower first-attempt successful revascularization rates compared to BGC (aOR:0.76, 95%CI:0.59-0.998), the 5-7 Fr non-BCG was not. Regression analysis showed a significant interaction between BGC use and device type. In the subgroup with SR as first-line technique, 90 day mRS scores were significantly higher in the 8-9Fr non-BGC group compared with BCG (acOR:0.77; 95%CI:0.59-0.996), but not in the 5-7Fr non-BCG. Direct aspiration combined with 5-7Fr non-BGC resulted in higher first-attempt rates compared to BGC (aOR:1.75; 95%CI:1.16-2.63).

Conclusion

This large prospective multicenter registry showed no differences in clinical outcome between patients treated with 5-7Fr non-BGC, 8-9Fr non-BGC, and 8-9Fr BGC. Subgroup analyses, however, suggest that BCG outperforms the non-BGC when SR is used as first-line technique.
Plasma Oxylipin Profiling by High Resolution Mass Spectrometry Reveal Signatures of Inflammation and Hypermetabolism in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Chaves-Filho Adriano B. , Diniz Larissa S. , Santos Rosangela S. , Lima Rodrigo S. , Oreliana Hector , Pinto Isabella F.D. , Dantas Lucas S. , Inague Alex , Faria Rodrigo L. , Medeiros Marisa H.G. , Glezer Isaías , Festuccia William T. , Yoshinaga Marcos Y. , Miyamoto Sayuri
Published: July 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized not only by progressive loss of motor neurons, but also linked to systemic hypermetabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation. In this context, oxylipins have been investigated as signaling molecules linked to neurodegeneration. However, the nature and role of major oxylipins involved in ALS disease progression remain unclear. Importantly, most methods focused on oxylipin analysis are based on low resolution mass spectrometry (LRMS), which usually confers high sensitivity, but not great accuracy for lipid identification, as provided by high-resolution MS (HRMS). Here, we established an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled HRMS (LC-HRMS) method for simultaneous analysis of 126 oxylipins in plasma, including lipid hydroxides, ketones, epoxides, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and others in a 15-minute run. Intra- and inter-day method validation showed high sensitivity (0.3 – 25 pg), accuracy and precision for more than 90 % of quality controls. This method was applied for the analysis of oxylipins in plasma of ALS rats overexpressing the mutant human Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase gene (SOD1-G93A) at asymptomatic (ALS 70 days old) and symptomatic stages (ALS 120 days old), and their respective age-matched wild type controls (WT 70 days old and WT 120 days old). From the 56 oxylipins identified in plasma, 17 species were significantly altered. Remarkably, most of oxylipins linked to inflammation and oxidative stress derived from arachidonic acid, such as, prostaglandins, lipoxins, mono-hydroxides, and isoprostane, were increased in ALS 120d rats. In contrast, the linoleic acid diols involved in fatty acid uptake and β-oxidation, 9(10)-DiHOME and 12(13)-DiHOME, were strongly decreased in the ALS 120d. In summary, we developed and validated a high-throughput LC-HRMS method for oxylipin analysis and provided a comprehensive overview of plasma oxylipins involved in ALS disease progression. Noteworthy, the oxylipins altered in plasma of ALS 120d rats have potential to be investigated and used as biomarkers for inflammation and hypermetabolism in ALS.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
DeepNeuropePred: a robust and universal tool to predict cleavage sites from neuropeptide precursors by protein language model
Authors: Wang Lei , Zeng Zilu , Xue Zhidong , Wang Yan
Published: July 2023

Neuropeptides play critical roles in many biological processes such as growth, learning, memory, metabolism, and neuronal differentiation. A few approaches have been reported for predicting neuropeptides that are cleaved from precursor protein sequences. However, these models for cleavage site prediction of precursors were developed using a limited number of neuropeptide precursor datasets and simple precursors representation models. In addition, a universal method for predicting neuropeptide cleavage sites that can be applied to all species is still lacking. In this paper, we proposed a novel deep learning method called DeepNeuropePred, using a combination of pretrained language model and Convolutional Neural Networks for feature extraction and predicting the neuropeptide cleavage sites from precursors. To demonstrate the model’s effectiveness and robustness, we evaluated the performance of DeepNeuropePred and four models from the NeuroPred server in the independent dataset and our model achieved the highest AUC score (0.916), which are 6.9%, 7.8%, 8.8%, and 10.9% higher than Mammalian (0.857), insects (0.850), Mollusc (0.842) and Motif (0.826), respectively. For the convenience of researchers, we provide an easy-to-install GitHub package (https://github.com/ISYSLAB-HUST/DeepNeuropePred) and a web server (http://isyslab.info/NeuroPepV2/deepNeuropePred.jsp).

Key Points

DeepNeuropePred uses a deep learning algorithm based on protein language model to accurately predict neuropeptide cleavage sites from neuropeptide precursors.

Independent test experiments show that DeepNeuropePred achieves significantly better performance than existing methods.

DeepNeuropePred could capture meaningful patterns between neuro-peptide and non-neuropeptide cleavage sites.

We further provide an easy-to-install GitHub package and a web server.
Colonization during a key developmental window reveals microbiota-dependent shifts in growth and immunity during undernutrition
Authors: Serrano Matos Yadeliz A. , Cano Jasmine , Shafiq Hamna , Williams Claire , Sunny Julee , Cowardin Carrie A.
Published: July 2023

Childhood undernutrition is a major global health challenge with devastating lifelong consequences. Linear growth stunting due to undernutrition has been linked to poor outcomes, and mothers who experience stunting are more likely to give birth to stunted children. Murine models that capture the intergenerational and multifactorial nature of undernutrition are critical to understanding the underlying biology of this disorder. Here we report a gnotobiotic mouse model of undernutrition using microbiota from human infants with healthy or stunted growth trajectories. Intergenerational transmission of microbiota from parents to offspring leads to the development of growth and immune features of undernutrition and enteropathy, including reduced linear growth, intestinal villus blunting and accumulation of intraepithelial lymphocytes. In contrast, colonization after weaning reduces sensitivity to detect changes driven by distinct microbial communities. Overall, these results suggest intergenerational colonization is a useful approach with which to investigate microbiota-dependent growth and immunity in early life.
First Eurasian cases of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in a free-ranging urban population of wild fallow deer
Authors: Purves Kevin , Brown Hannah , Haverty Ruth , Ryan Andrew , Griffin Laura L. , McCormack Janet , O’Reilly Sophie , Mallon Patrick W. , Gautier Virginie , Cassidy Joseph P. , Fabre Aurelie , Carr Michael J. , Gonzalez Gabriel , Ciuti Simone , Fletcher Nicola F.
Published: July 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infects wildlife. Recent studies highlighted that variants of concern (VOC) may expand into novel animal reservoirs with the potential for reverse zoonosis. North American white-tailed deer are the only deer species in which SARS-CoV-2 has been documented, raising the question whether further reservoir species exist as new VOC emerge. Here, we report the first cases of deer SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in Eurasia, in a city population of fallow deer in Dublin, Ireland. Deer were seronegative in 2020 (circulating variant in humans: Alpha), one animal was seropositive in 2021 (Delta variant), and 57% of animals tested in 2022 were seropositive (Omicron variant). Ex vivo, a clinical isolate of Omicron BA.1 infected fallow deer precision cut lung slice type-2 pneumocytes, also a major target of infection in human lungs. Our findings suggest a change in host tropism as new variants emerged in the human reservoir, highlighting the importance of continued wildlife disease monitoring and limiting human-wildlife contacts.

Teaser:This study is the first report of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity in fallow deer, highlighting expansion of viral variants into new host reservoirs.
Complex Sphingolipid Profiling and Identification of an Inositol Phosphorylceramide Synthase inDictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Listian Stevanus A. , Kol Matthijs , Ufelmann Edwin , Eising Sebastian , Fröhlich Florian , Walter Stefan , Holthuis Joost C. M. , Barisch Caroline
Published: July 2023

Dictyostelium discoideumis a professional phagocyte frequently used as experimental model to study cellular processes underlying the recognition, engulfment and infection course of microbial pathogens. Sphingolipids are abundant components of the plasma membrane that bind cholesterol, control vital membrane properties, participate in signal transmission and serve as adhesion molecules in recognition processes relevant to immunity and infection. While the pathway of sphingolipid biosynthesis has been well characterized in plants, animals and fungi, the identity of sphingolipids produced inD. discoideum, an organism at the crossroads between uni- and multicellular life, is not known. Combining lipidomics with a bioinformatics-based cloning strategy for key sphingolipid biosynthetic enzymes, we show here thatD. discoideumproduces phosphoinositol-containing sphingolipids with predominantly phytoceramide backbones. Cell-free expression of candidate inositol-phosphorylceramide (IPC) synthases fromD. discoideumin defined lipid environments enabled identification of an enzyme that selectively catalyses the transfer of phosphoinositol from phosphatidylinositol onto ceramide. The corresponding IPC synthase,DdIPCS1, is non-homologous to but shares multiple sequence motifs with yeast IPC and human sphingomyelin synthases and localizes to the Golgi apparatus as well as the contractile vacuole ofD. discoideum. Collectively, these findings open up important opportunities for exploring a role of sphingolipids in phagocytosis and infection across major evolutionary boundaries.
Nuclear Localization of Argonaute is affected by Cell Density and May Relieve Repression by microRNAs
Authors: Johnson Krystal C. , Kilikevicius Audrius , Hofman Cristina , Hu Jiaxin , Liu Yang , Aguilar Selina , Graswich Jon , Han Yi , Wang Tao , Westcott Jill M. , Brekken Rolf A. , Peng Lan , Karagkounis Georgios , Corey David R.
Published: July 2023

Argonaute protein is associated with post-transcriptional control of cytoplasmic gene expression through miRNA-induced silencing complexes (miRISC). Specific cellular and environmental conditions can trigger AGO protein to accumulate in the nucleus. Localization of AGO is central to understanding miRNA action, yet the consequences of AGO being in the nucleus are undefined. We show nuclear enrichment of AGO2 in HCT116 cells grown in two-dimensional culture to high density, HCT116 cells grown in three-dimensional tumor spheroid culture, and human colon tumors. The shift in localization of AGO2 from cytoplasm to nucleus de-represses cytoplasmic AGO2-eCLIP targets that were candidates for canonical regulation by miRISC. Constitutive nuclear localization of AGO2 using an engineered nuclear localization signal increases cell migration. Critical RNAi factors also affect the localization of AGO2. Knocking out an enzyme essential for miRNA biogenesis, DROSHA, depletes mature miRNAs and restricts AGO2 localization to the cytoplasm, while knocking out the miRISC scaffolding protein, TNRC6, results in nuclear localization of AGO2. These data suggest that AGO2 localization and miRNA activity can be regulated depending on environmental conditions, expression of mature miRNAs, and expression of miRISC cofactors. Localization and expression of core miRISC protein machinery should be considered when investigating the roles of miRNAs.
The global communication architecture of the human brain transcends the subcortical - cortical - cerebellar subdivisions
Authors: Schulte Julian , Senden Mario , Deco Gustavo , Kobeleva Xenia , Zamora-López Gorka
Published: July 2023

The white matter is made of anatomical fibres that constitute the highway of long-range connections between different parts of the brain. This network is referred to as the brain’s structural connectivity and lays the foundation of network interaction between brain areas. When analysing the architectural principles of this global network most studies have mainly focused on cortico-cortical and partly on cortico-subcortical connections. Here we show, for the first time, how the integrated cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar brain areas shape the structural architecture of the whole brain. We find that dense clusters vertically transverse cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar brain areas, which are themselves centralised by a global rich-club consisting similarly of cortical and subcortical brain areas. Notably, the most prominent hubs can be found in subcortical brain regions, and their targeted in-silico lesions proved to be most harmful for global signal propagation. Individually, the cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar sub-networks manifest distinct network features despite some similarities, which underline their unique structural fingerprints. Our results, exposing the heterogeneity of internal organisation across cortex, subcortex, and cerebellum, and the crucial role of the subcortex for the integration of the global anatomical pathways, highlight the need to overcome the prevalent cortex-centric focus towards a global consideration of the structural connectivity.
Ablation ofOCT4function in cattle embryos by double electroporation of CRISPR-Cas for DNA and RNA targeting (CRISPR-DART)
Authors: Nix Jada L. , Schettini Gustavo P. , Speckhart Savannah L. , Ealy Alan D. , Biase Fernando H.
Published: July 2023

CRISPR-Cas ribonucleoproteins are important tools for gene editing in pre-implantation embryos. However, the inefficient production of biallelic deletions in cattle zygotes has hindered mechanistic studies of gene function. In addition, the presence of maternal RNAs that support embryo development until embryonic genome activation may cause confounding phenotypes. Here, we aimed to improve the efficiency of biallelic deletions and deplete specific maternal RNAs in cattle zygotes using CRISPR-Cas editing technology. Two electroporation sessions with Cas9D10A ribonucleoproteins targeting exon 1 and the promoter ofOCT4produced biallelic deletions in 91% of the embryos tested. In most cases, the deletions were longer than 1000 nucleotides long. Electroporation of Cas13a ribonucleoproteins prevents the production of the corresponding proteins. We electroporated Cas9D10A ribonucleoproteins targeting exon 1, including the promoter region, ofOCT4in two sessions with inclusion of Cas13a ribonucleoproteins targetingOCT4mRNAs in the second session to ablateOCT4function in cattle embryos. A lack ofOCT4resulted in embryos arresting development prior to blastocyst formation at a greater proportion (13%) than controls (31.6%, P<0.001). The few embryos that developed past the morula stage did not form a normal inner cell mass. Transcriptome analysis of single blastocysts, confirmed to lack exon 1 and promoter region ofOCT4, revealed a significant (FDR<0.1) reduction in transcript abundance of many genes functionally connected to stemness, including markers of pluripotency (CADHD1,DPPA4,GNL3,RRM2). The results confirm thatOCT4is key regulator of genes that modulate pluripotency and is required to form a functional blastocyst in cattle.

Significance Statement

CRISPR-Cas mediated DNA editing can revolutionize agriculture and biomedicine due to its simplicity of design and use. Modifications induced in embryos, though challenging to accomplish, are beneficial for the advancement of livestock production and the study of biological function. Here, we developed an approach using CRISPR-Cas enzymes to remove DNA segments of the cattle genome in one-cell embryos. Our results show major advancement in the efficiency of producing large deletions in the genome of cattle embryos. Using our approach, we removed the function of theOCT4gene. Our results confirmedOCT4as a major regulator of pluripotency genes during embryo development and its requirement for the formation of an inner cell mass in cattle.
The Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Microbiome of Pacific Oyster Spat is Shaped by Ocean Warming but not Acidification
Authors: Zhong Kevin Xu , Chan Amy M. , Collicutt Brenna , Daspe Maxim , Finke Jan F. , Foss Megan , Green Timothy J. , Harley Christopher D.G. , Hesketh Amelia V. , Miller Kristina M. , Otto Sarah P. , Rolheiser Kate , Saunders Rob , Sutherland Ben J.G. , Suttle Curtis A.
Published: July 2023

Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas,also known asCrassostrea gigas), the most widely farmed oysters, are under threat from climate change and emerging pathogens. In part, their resilience may be affected by their microbiome, which, in turn, may be influenced by ocean warming and acidification. Consequently, for three weeks, we exposed early-development Pacific oyster spat to different temperatures (18 and 24 °C) andpCO2levels (800, 1600 and 2800µatm) in a fully crossed design. Under all conditions, the microbiome developed over time, with potentially pathogenic ciliates (Uronema marinum) greatly reduced in all treatments, suggesting that the spat’s microbiome undergoes adaptive shifts as the oysters age. The microbiome composition also differed significantly with temperature, but not acidification, indicating thatM. gigasspat microbiomes can be altered by ocean warming but resilient to ocean acidification in our experiments. These findings highlight the spat microbiome’s flexibility to environmental changes as well as its “protective” capability against potentially pathogenic microbes.
Viral enumeration using cost-effective wet-mount epifluorescence microscopy for aquatic ecosystems and modern microbialites
Authors: Bellanger Madeline , Visscher Pieter , White Richard Allen
Published: July 2023

Enumeration is a fundamental measure of community ecology in which viruses represent the most numerous biological identities. Epifluorescence microscopy (EFM) has been the gold standard method for environmental viral enumeration for over 25 years. Currently, standard EFM methods using the Anodisc filters are no longer cost-effective (>$15 per slide) and have yet to be applied to modern microbialites. Microbialites are microbially driven benthic organosedimentary deposits that have been present for most of Earth’s history. We present a cost-effective method for environmental viral enumeration from aquatic samples, microbial mats, and exopolymeric substances (EPS) within modern microbialites using EFM. Our integrated approach, which includes filtration, differential centrifugation, chloroform treatment, glutaraldehyde fixation, benzonase nuclease treatment, probe sonication (EPS and mat only), SYBR Gold staining, wet-mounting, and imaging, provides a robust method for modern microbialites and aquatic samples. Viral abundances of modern microbialites and aquatic samples collected from Fayetteville Green Lake (FGL) and Great Salt Lake (GSL) did not differ across ecosystems by sample type. EPS and microbial mat samples had an order of magnitude higher viral-like particle (VLP) abundance when compared to water regardless of the ecosystem (107vs. 106). Viral enumeration allows for estimates of total viral numbers and weights. The entire weight of all the viruses in FGL and GSL are ∼598 g and ∼2.2 kg, respectively; this is equivalent to a loaf of bread for FGL and standard brick for GSL. Further development of EFM methods and software is needed for viral enumeration. Our method provides a robust and cost-effective (∼$0.75 per sample) viral enumeration within modern microbialites and aquatic ecosystems.
Replaying the tape of ecology to domesticate wild microbiota
Authors: Pascual-García Alberto , Rivett Damian , Jones Matt L. , Bell Thomas
Published: July 2023

Humanity has benefited from the domestication of nature and there is an increasing need to predict and control ecosystems. Domesticating bacterial communities would be particularly useful. Bacterial communities play key roles in global biogeochemical cycles, in industry (e.g. sewage treatment, fermented food and drink manufacturing), in agriculture (e.g. by fixing nitrogen and suppressing pathogens), and in human health and animal husbandry. There is therefore great interest in understanding bacterial community dynamics so that they can be controlled and engineered to optimise ecosystem services. We assessed the reproducibility and predictability of bacterial community dynamics by creating a frozen archive of hundreds of naturally-occuring bacterial communities that were repeatedly revived and tracked in a standardised, complex environment. Replicate communities followed reproducible trajectories and the community dynamics could be closely mapped to ecosystem functioning. However, even under standardised conditions, the communities exhibited tipping-points, where a small difference in initial community composition created divergent outcomes. We accurately predicted ecosystem outcomes based on initial bacterial community composition, and identified the conditions under which divergent ecosystem outcomes may be expected. In conclusion, we have shown the feasibility of our approach to reproducibly achieve predictable compositions and functions from wild communities. Nonetheless, the predictability of community trajectories, and therefore their utility in domestication, requires detailed knowledge of rugged compositional landscapes where ecosystem properties are not the inevitable result of prevailing environmental conditions but can be tilted toward different outcomes depending on the initial community composition.
Bacterial vampirism mediated through taxis to serum
Authors: Glenn Siena J. , Gentry-Lear Zealon , Shavlik Michael , Harms Michael J. , Asaki Thomas J. , Baylink Arden
Published: July 2023

Bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae are associated with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and bacteremia and are a leading cause of death, from sepsis, for individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases. The bacterial behaviors and mechanisms underlying why these bacteria are prone to bloodstream entry remains poorly understood. Herein, we report that clinical isolates of non-typhoidalSalmonella entericaserovars,Escherichia coli, andCitrobacter koseriare rapidly attracted toward sources of human serum. To simulate GI bleeding, we utilized a custom injection-based microfluidics device and found that femtoliter volumes of human serum are sufficient to induce the bacterial population to swim toward and aggregate at the serum source. This response is orchestrated through chemotaxis, and a major chemical cue driving chemoattraction is L-serine, an amino acid abundant in serum that is recognized through direct binding by the chemoreceptor Tsr. We report the first crystal structures ofSalmonellaTyphimurium Tsr in complex with L-serine and identify a conserved amino acid recognition motif for L-serine shared among Tsr orthologues. By mapping the phylogenetic distribution of this chemoreceptor we found Tsr to be widely conserved among Enterobacteriaceae and numerous World Health Organization priority pathogens associated with bloodstream infections. Lastly, we find that Enterobacteriaceae use human serum as a source of nutrients for growth and that chemotaxis and the chemoreceptor Tsr provides a competitive advantage for migration into enterohaemorrhagic lesions. We term this bacterial behavior of taxis toward serum, colonization of hemorrhagic lesions, and the consumption of serum nutrients, as “bacterial vampirism” which may relate to the proclivity of Enterobacteriaceae for bloodstream infections.
Proteomics and phosphoproteomics profiling in glutamatergic neurons and microglia in an iPSC model of Jansen de Vries Syndrome
Authors: Aguilan Jennifer T. , Pedrosa Erika , Dolstra Hedwig , Baykara Refia Nur , Barnes Jesse , Zhang Jinghang , Sidoli Simone , Lachman Herbert M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Jansen de Vries Syndrome (JdVS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) caused by gain-of-function (GOF) truncating mutations inPPM1Dexons 5 or 6. PPM1D is a serine/threonine phosphatase that plays an important role in the DNA damage response (DDR) by negatively regulating TP53 (P53). JdVS-associated mutations lead to the formation of a truncated PPM1D protein that retains catalytic activity and has a GOF effect because of reduced degradation. SomaticPPM1Dexons 5 and 6 truncating mutations are well-established factors in a number of cancers, due to excessive dephosphorylation and reduced function of P53 and other substrates involved in DDR. Children with JdVS have a variety of neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and physical problems. In addition, a small fraction has acute neuropsychiatric decompensation apparently triggered by infection or severe non-infectious environmental stress factors.

Methods

To understand the molecular basis of JdVS, we developed an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) model system. iPSCs heterozygous for the truncating variant (PPM1D+/tr), were made from a patient, and control lines engineered using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Proteomics and phosphoprotemics analyses were carried out on iPSC-derived glutamatergic neurons and microglia from three control and threePPM1D+/triPSC lines. We also analyzed the effect of the TLR4 agonist, lipopolysaccharide, to understand how activation of the innate immune system in microglia could account for acute behavioral decompensation.

Results

One of the major findings was the downregulation of POGZ in unstimulated microglia. Since loss-of-function variants in thePOGZgene are well-known causes of autism spectrum disorder, the decrease inPPM1D+/trmicroglia suggests this plays a role in the neurodevelopmental aspects of JdVS. In addition, neurons, baseline, and LPS-stimulated microglia show marked alterations in the expression of several E3 ubiquitin ligases, most notably UBR4, and regulators of innate immunity, chromatin structure, ErbB signaling, and splicing. In addition, pathway analysis points to overlap with neurodegenerative disorders.

Limitations

Owing to the cost and labor-intensive nature of iPSC research, the sample size was small.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insight into the molecular basis of JdVS and can be extrapolated to understand neuropsychiatric decompensation that occurs in subgroups of patients with ASD and other NDDs.
The association between different types of dietary fat intake and blood lipids in Type 2 diabetes patients: sex differences
Authors: Al-Mssallem Muneera Qassim , Alarifi Sehad Nasser , Al-Mssallem Nora Ibrahim
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Blood lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities are common among patients with diabetes. The study aimed to assess dietary fat intake and its association with blood lipids among patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) considering sex differences.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with patients (207 males and 197 females) with T2DM. The daily food intake and its contents of fat and fat types were assessed through face-to-face interview. Anthropometric measurements, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglyceride, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were initially recorded.

Findings

The results revealed that TC, LDL and HDL cholesterol levels were significantly higher in females than in males. However, the TC: HDL ratio was significantly higher in males than in females. The results also showed that the daily intake of saturated fatty acid (SFA) slightly exceeded the daily recommended allowance. However, the monounsaturated fatty acid + polyunsaturated fatty acid/SFA (MUFA + PUFA/SFA) ratio was within the recommended ratio. In addition, this study found that the main sources of SFA and cholesterol intake were milk and milk products. A significant association between high fat intake and HbA1c levels was observed (r = 0.234, p < 0.001).

Research limitations/implications

As it is a cross-sectional observational study, this study has the natural limitation where it can only demonstrate an association.

Originality/value

The types of dietary fat intake may contribute to blood lipid abnormalities and differences effects may exist among male and female. Studies on the effect of daily fat intake and its types on blood lipids in patients with diabetes, in particular Saudi patients with diabetes are limited. This study focused on the amount and type of the consumed fat among male and female Saudi patients with T2DM and studied the relationship between the type of consumed fat and blood lipid profiles.
Institutional ownership and board governance. A structured literature review on the heterogeneous monitoring role of institutional investors
Authors: Velte Patrick
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to review empirical research on the relationship between institutional ownership (IO) and board governance (85 studies).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on agency and upper echelons theory, the heterogeneous monitoring function of specific types and the nature of institutional investors on board composition, compensation and chief executive officer (CEO) characteristics will be focused.

Findings

The author found that most studies have referred to archival studies, analyzed the impact of board governance on IO, focused on CEO characteristics, neglected IO heterogeneity and advanced regression models to address endogeneity concerns. In line with the theoretical framework, the relationship between total IO and board governance is heterogeneous. However, specific types such as foreign, dedicated and pressure-resistant institutions represent active monitoring tools and push for increased board governance.

Research limitations/implications

The author provided useful recommendations for future research from a content and methodological perspective, e.g. the need for analyzing the impact of IO on sustainable board governance and other characteristics of top management team members, e.g. the chief financial officer.

Practical implications

As many regulatory bodies implemented regulations to promote shareholder rights and board governance, this literature review highlights the connections of both corporate governance mechanisms. Managers should conduct a careful and timely investor analysis and change the composition and compensation of the board of directors in line with institutional investors’ preferences.

Originality/value

This analysis makes useful contributions to prior research by focusing on IO and board governance, whereas the author structured the heterogeneous variables and results within the structured literature review. The authors guides researchers, regulatory bodies and business practice in this corporate governance topic.
“It worked for my friend”: non-medical use of tramadol among manual labourers in Anambra state, Nigeria
Authors: Nwafor Chidozie Edwin , Okoye Chukwuemeka Felix A. , Nwankwo Nelson I. , Ugwu Paschal Chukwuma
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the dynamics involved in the non-medical use of tramadol among manual labourers in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the phenomenological approach, we conducted in-depth interviews with forty (40) manual labourers (age: 19–36 years). These participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques from two cities in Anambra state, Nigeria, and the data was analysed with thematic analysis.

Findings

The results revealed that most of the participants were introduced to tramadol use by their friends. They used tramadol for pain relief, euphoric feeling, energy for work and sexual performance. Unfortunately, most of them may have gradually become dependent on this drug to function well in life without knowing the possible medical and psychological implications.

Research limitations/implications

The sample choice may limit the generalization of the findings; however, the study indicates a need to improve working condition, access to healthcare and awareness of the negative effects of non-medical use of tramadol.

Originality/value

Non-medical use of tramadol may have started as an attempt to help self in performing the daily routine. This action can jeopardize an individual’s mental health and, at the extreme state, hinder performance of daily routine. Friends and the quality of information they provide play a significant role in the onset of this action. The strong point is that many people who are involved in the non-medical use of tramadol are unaware of the possible risks. Improving working conditions and access to healthcare for chronic pain could help reduce these risks.
Trust in disaster resilience
Authors: Fornalé Elisa , Armiero Marco , Odasso Laura
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The erosion of ‘trust’ (among citizens as well as within and between institutional levels) is a worrying aspect of these turbulent times in Europe and beyond. Trust (between citizens and institutions, citizens and experts, policymakers and experts, and among different levels of governance) is crucial in all dimensions of disaster resilience. Risk perceptions stem from a complex web of feedback between individuals, communities, institutions, and experts. Sometimes, institutions and experts are slow or even resistant to accepting signals and knowledge about risks coming from the grassroots. Or, it is the other way around, and citizens are skeptical about the information coming from institutions and experts. Thus, trust must work in all directions (from citizens to institutions, from experts to citizens, etc.) to build a cooperative framework for action.

Design/methodology/approach

Our article aims to explore the construction of trust and distrust in communities dealing with historical, actual, or potential disasters by putting forward a three-dimensional approach (societal, cooperative, and institutional). We convey the idea that less tangible aspects such as culture, contextual history, knowledge, and habits shape the perception of risk, the degree of preparedness and, ultimately, the impacts of environmental changes.

Findings

These elements affect cooperative behaviors, and it is expected that the institutional environment – which will vary across domestic, national, and regional contexts – will play a significant role in nurturing trust or distrust in relation to disaster risk.

Originality/value

This article will offer valuable insights by developing a new conceptual framework that can be translated and validated by future research.
A new method for solving multiple definite integrals using multiple sets of correlation extreme learning machines
Authors: Li Shangjie , Huang Xianzhen , Wang Xingang , Zhao Chengying , Lv Hangyuan
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a novel method and apply it to solve multiple definite integrals. The proposed method is constructed based on multiple sets of correlation extreme learning machines (MCELM).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present a novel method for solving multiple definite integrals. By using an extreme learning machine (ELM) to learn the integrand function, the primitive function is analytically derived based on the functional expression of the trained ELM and expressed by another ELM, while the correlations between the two ELMs are established. Solutions of multiple definite integrals can be realized by applying this process repeatedly.

Findings

To verify the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method, various examples are selected and its numerical solutions are obtained by using the proposed method. The proposed method has high computational accuracy and efficiency, and the superiority is illustrated by comparing with some other existing methods.

Originality/value

MCELM method is proposed for solving multiple definite integrals. The method can be applied for solving multiple definite integrals appearing in applications, the strong applicability of the method in engineering problems is demonstrated in structural system reliability analysis of a cantilever beam.
Construction group conflict under resource overlap: a game theory approach
Authors: Peng Junlong , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The replenishment of construction materials heavily relies on the functioning of heavy machinery, which often leads to confusion and negotiations among construction work groups regarding the allocation rights of these materials. When multiple groups require the same construction materials, they often struggle to determine whether the delivered materials are intended for their own use or if they have encroached upon supplies designated for others. Such uncertainties and negotiations frequently result in delays in construction progress and have the potential to escalate into conflicts. To minimize misunderstandings among work groups and mitigate the risk of severe safety consequences, it is crucial to understand the decision-making processes involved in the interaction between work groups.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a game theory approach to examine the interactions among work groups from a safety perspective. Quantum response equilibrium (QRE), as a specialized form of game with incomplete information, is assumed to govern the behavior of work groups in this study. By conducting a questionnaire survey, interactive scenarios were simulated. A resource overlap scenario for high-altitude construction is established, with the key factors being the importance of construction materials, the time required to supplement materials, whether managers are present and the climate within the groups. The model parameters were estimated using the expectation–maximization algorithm. Additionally, individual traits and safety awareness are surveyed in the questionnaire, further explaining the results of the game.

Findings

The findings indicate that the likelihood of conflicts between work groups under resource overlap can be quantified. The radical behavior of construction work groups exhibits a positive correlation with the importance of construction materials and the time required for material replenishment. Furthermore, the presence of a safety climate and the oversight of management personnel play a significant role in maintaining the composure of construction work groups. The expanded results of the questionnaire demonstrate that there is considerable room for improvement in workers' safety awareness, and management approaches can be further enhanced to prevent unsafe behaviors from occurring.

Originality/value

A novel game theory model was developed to evaluate the behavior of construction groups in situations of resource overlap. This model offers practical suggestions to improve safety performance and efficiency in construction projects.
Consumer anticipation as a performative experience
Authors: Vichiengior Tunyaporn , Ackermann Claire-Lise , Palmer Adrian
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore consumer anticipation processes that occur after commitment to a purchase has been made, but before consumption occurs. The authors add to the knowledge and theory building about anticipation that occurs in this liminal phase by investigating the cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes that interact to influence post-consumption evaluations.

Design/methodology/approach

An abductive research approach used a phase-based research design using semi-structured interviews. The authors identify interactions between cognitive, emotional and behavioural processes that occur during anticipation and associate these with post-consumption outcomes.

Findings

Anticipation of a consumption experience, enacted through thoughts, emotions and actions, and undertaken with peers, is an experience per se, independent from and interdependent with the substantive experience, and contributes to performance of the substantive experience. The authors propose a framework in which anticipation – as a performative phenomenon – influences the overall evaluations of the substantive consumption experience in contexts of delayed consumption. The theoretical grounding of performativity makes a useful contribution through its linkage of thought processes to outcomes. The authors further locate their findings within the literature on attribution theory. By engaging in anticipation, informants perceived the locus of causality to be internal, and expressed pride in having anticipated if the subsequent experience was successful. By anticipating, informants perceived an ability to exert control over future events and felt ashamed of not having adequately anticipated if an experience was subsequently unsuccessful.

Research limitations/implications

The theoretical grounding of performativity makes a useful contribution through its linkage of thought processes to outcomes. The authors further locate their findings within the literature on attribution theory. By engaging in anticipation, informants perceived the locus of causality to be internal and expressed pride in having anticipated if the subsequent experience was successful. By anticipating, informants perceived an ability to exert control over future events and felt ashamed of not having adequately anticipated if an experience was subsequently unsuccessful.

Practical implications

The authors discuss the trade-off service providers face between encouraging anticipation, which raises expectations that might not be met, and facilitating anticipatory preparations, which may reduce the risk of service failure.

Originality/value

The authors provide a new lens by conceptualising anticipation as a performative process and identifying mechanisms by which anticipation is embedded in total consumption experience. This study has important generalisable implications for contexts where mechanisms of performative anticipation may be a means for ameliorating uncertainty about future consumption experiences.
The innovative–performance connection: how dynamic capabilities empower nurses
Authors: Alwali Joather
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relationship between employee dynamic capabilities (EDCs), innovative work behavior (IWB) and job performance (JP) among nurses in public hospitals in Iraq. It also determines the mediating role of IWB in the relationship between EDC and JP.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses structural equation modeling via partial least squares (PLS-SEM) and bootstrapping estimation to analyze the model. A total of 425 respondents participated in the survey, though only 372 participants completed all the items in the questionnaire. Hence, 372 responses were analyzed after data screening.

Findings

This study indicates that EDC has a positive correlation with IWB among nurses in public hospitals in Iraq. It also shows that IWB has a positive relationship with JP. It further demonstrates that IWB has a positive mediating effect on the relationship between EDC and JP among nurses in Iraq’s public hospitals.

Research limitations/implications

The implication of this study is that EDC can significantly predict IWB, while the latter is a significant predictor of JP among nurses in public hospitals in Iraq. Besides, the relationship between EDC and JP is significantly mediated by IWB. However, as a cross-sectional investigation showing a single snapshot in time, this study has some limitations in terms of establishing strict causality among the variables. Rather than extensive actual data, the findings are based on a log compiled by a key respondent. The findings are obtained from a survey conducted in one country, but certain variables, such as EDC, may have varying implications across different countries. Hence, future research can focus on a diverse range of countries, which could be used to ascertain the findings’ generalizability.

Originality/value

This study advances our understanding of the direct effect of the exploration and exploitation variables as well as the mediating effect of IWB in the relationship between EDC and JP among nurses in public hospitals in Iraq.
Co-creating a city brand image based on cultural identity: the case of Cali and the Salsa music and dance scene
Authors: Muñiz-Martínez Norberto
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper explores Salsa co-creation processes in the city of Cali, Colombia. The purpose of this paper is to uncover the processes of bottom-up and top-down place governance at work in the system. This study proposed that these processes are founded on a place-based cultural identity in Cali’s civil society.

Design/methodology/approach

This research draws on practice and structuration theories to understand how social structures frame place-based cultural identity and takes a social constructivist approach to place making and place branding. Empirical data were collected using a qualitative, multi-method approach, with primary data gathered from interviews with key actors and records of in-situ interactions between tourists and local citizens.

Findings

Evidence is presented to show how tourists and visitors are attracted to Cali in pursuit of an urban existential authenticity generated through sensory experiences connected to music and dance mediated by interpersonal interactions with local residents.

Research limitations/implications

Further investigation is needed to gain greater insight into tourists’ motivations, and in addition, a more quantitative approach is required to understand better the range of interpersonal and intrapersonal factors involved.

Practical implications

Place branding should consider synergies between economics and culture as well as exploring the potential of sensorial interactions to produce emotional place attachment in a range of different stakeholders.

Originality/value

While place branding research tends to focus on the views and beliefs of stakeholders (cognitive dimension), this investigation takes an approach to the topic based on interpersonal sensorial interactions between visitors and local inhabitants as part of daily life (emotional dimension).