bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacity evaluation of hydropower for accommodating wind‐photovoltaic power generation in the dry season
Authors: Zhou Yerong , Zhang Yangbo , Zhu Yanmei , Huang Weibin , Chen Shijun , Ma Guangwen
Published: September 2023

Considering that the benefits of hydropower stations from regulating and consuming new energy are restricted during the dry season due to the inadequate regulation capacity, this paper focuses on the accommodation capacity evaluation of hydropower for wind‐ photovoltaic (PV, for short) power generation in different supply‐grid‐load conditions. First, the factors that influence hydropower stations' accommodation capacity were initially examined in this study, in terms of power supply, power grid, and load. Then, two new indices, namely the regulatory factor of installed capacity and the regulatory factor of electric quantity, were put forward to evaluate the capacity of hydropower for accommodating wind‐PV. To reduce the peak regulation burden on the power grid and encourage the consumption of clean energy, a two‐objective optimization model with maximum source‐load matching and clean energy consumption was devised. And a two‐tier binary algorithm and progressive optimization coupled strategy was proposed to solve the model. Finally, the cascade hydropower stations in the north Panxi section of the Yalong River and the surrounding wind farm and PV power stations were taken as examples to examine the sensitivity of the factors. The results show that with each 5% increase in the regulatory electric quantity, the regulatable installed wind‐PV capacity and consumable wind‐PV electric quantity were increased by 7.57% and 8.21%, respectively, rank only second to transmission capacity. Considering the large investment required for transmission channel expansion, this result reveals that the most effective and economical way to promote wind‐PV consumption is to increase the regulated electric quantity of hydropower stations in the river basin.
Akute Ischämie bei Tumorpatienten: Pathogenese, Therapie und Prävention
Authors: Argyriou Angeliki , Shehada Yousef , Torsello Giovanni , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Stana Jan , Stavroulakis Konstantinos , Rantner Barbara
Published: September 2023

Arterielle Thromboembolien machen ca. 10–30% aller tumorassoziierten thromboembolischen Komplikationen aus 1 und haben trotz Fortschritten in der medikamentösen und operativen Therapie der akuten peripheren Ischämie noch immer eine beträchtliche Mortalität bzw. Morbidität zur
Folge 2. Der vorliegende Beitrag schildert Pathophysiologie, Diagnostik und neueste Therapiemöglichkeiten der tumorassoziierten akuten Extremitätenischämie.
The fate of ‘pseudo-’ words
Authors: Van Goethem Kristel , Norde Muriel , Masini Francesca
Published: September 2023

The present study examines the fate of the neoclassical combining form pseudo- in eight European languages, belonging to Germanic (Danish, Dutch, English, German and Swedish) and Romance (French, Italian, Spanish). In order to gain a better understanding of the synchronic morphological behaviour and productivity of pseudo- words in these languages, we carry out a cross-linguistic corpus analysis and compare the morphological and distributional properties of pseudo-. We also analyse its debonding behaviour and categorical flexibility in the set of languages and correlate this property with its productivity. The results of the corpus study are discussed against the typological background of the so-called Germanic and Romance Sandwiches.
Overview of methodological procedures in research on written corrective
feedback processing
Authors: Coyle Yvette , Nicolás-Conesa Florentina , Cerezo Lourdes
Published: September 2023

This chapter offers a critical overview of the methods
used in research on written corrective feedback processing. Broadly framed
within interventionist and non-interventionist strands of research on the
grounds of whether or not feedback and other task or participant-related
variables are controlled by the researcher, we describe the research
designs, participants, data collection tools, and analytical units used in
studies on feedback processing. Our purpose in doing so is twofold. Firstly,
we aim to take stock of the ways in which process research has evolved in
line with changing theoretical and empirical developments in the field of L2
writing studies. Secondly, we intend to offer an appraisal of the
methodological procedures used in existing research. Finally, we suggest
future directions for a more inclusive research agenda that can respond to
the challenges of new digital and curricular L2 writing scenarios and
establish greater uniformity in its analytical approaches.
Direct observation of writing activity
Authors: Séror Jérémie , Gentil Guillaume
Published: September 2023

Emerging technologies and the rise of internet-mediated
writing spaces have contributed to the appearance of new forms of digital
practices that have transformed writing and its development. These
technologies also present important methodological opportunities for
researchers interested in the study of writing processes and writing
development. This chapter offers a critical overview of one such
opportunity: the use of screen capture technologies (SCT) as a means of
documenting and engaging in direct real-time observation of language
learners’ digitally mediated writing activities. After a brief description
of SCT, this chapter reviews the research questions explored and insights
gleaned about writing processes and writing development with SCT. It then
addresses the methodological challenges and potential solutions associated
with the integration of SCT data within research projects in terms of
research design, data collection, data analysis and reporting, and ethical
considerations. The chapter concludes by suggesting some potential future
avenues for writing process research enabled by the use of SCT.
Investigating cognitive processes during writing tests
Authors: Guggenbichler Elisa , Eberharter Kathrin , Kremmel Benjamin
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this chapter is to critically discuss
some of the key issues when investigating writing processes for the purposes
of foreign language assessment research – a branch of research that
currently tends to triangulate synchronous observational data (e.g., eye
tracking, keystroke logging) with asynchronous data from stimulated verbal
recalls or text analysis. We will discuss a range of methodological
considerations that should be taken into account when researching foreign
language writing processes in the context of language tests and beyond. We
will exemplify and critically discuss key issues related to three of the
methods predominantly used in this strand of research: eye tracking,
keystroke logging, and stimulated recalls. We will illustrate these issues
and decision-making processes at the various stages of research by
critically reflecting on the lessons learned from two research projects of
this kind conducted by the authors.
Methodological considerations in the analysis of synchronous and
asynchronous written corrective feedback
Authors: Shintani Natsuko , Aubrey Scott
Published: September 2023

Providing written corrective feedback in
computer-mediated communication (CMC) environments has increasingly
attracted the interest of both researchers and practitioners. In this
chapter we reflect on our study, Shintani
& Aubrey (2016), which examined the comparative effects of
synchronous and asynchronous written corrective feedback on the accurate
production of target grammatical features in a guided writing task. The
methodological challenges we experienced related to (a) operationalizing
synchronous and asynchronous written corrective feedback; (b) designing
treatment materials and procedures; (c) testing; and (d) analyzing the data.
In each decision, we tried to find a balance between experimental control
and ecological validity. This chapter not only provides a window into how we
overcame these challenges but also gives suggestions for research
methodologies that can be used in future studies to explore the provision of
written corrective feedback through online technologies.
Afterword
Authors: Polio Charlene
Published: September 2023

In this afterword, I summarize the strengths and
challenges of different research methods used to study second language
writing processes with reference to the various chapters in the volume. This
is followed by a discussion of considerations researchers have to make when
choosing a method. Next, I summarize themes that are apparent throughout the
volume, and then focus on certain themes that I believe need more
attention.
Structural analysis of novel drug targets for mitigation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms
Authors: Ghosh Moumita , Raghav Shikha , Ghosh Puja , Maity Swagatam , Mohela Kavery , Jain Deepti
Published: September 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogen responsible for acute and chronic, hard to treat infections. Persistence of P. aeruginosa is due to its ability to develop into biofilms, which are sessile bacterial communities adhered to substratum and encapsulated in layers of self-produced exopolysaccharides. These biofilms provide enhanced protection from the host immune system and resilience towards antibiotics, which poses a challenge for treatment. Various strategies have been expended for combating biofilms, which involve inhibiting biofilm formation or promoting their dispersal. The current remediation approaches offer some hope for clinical usage, however, treatment and eradication of preformed biofilms is still a challenge. Thus, identifying novel targets and understanding the detailed mechanism of biofilm regulation becomes imperative. Structure-based drug discovery (SBDD) provides a powerful tool that exploits the knowledge of atomic resolution details of the targets to search for high affinity ligands. This review describes the available structural information on the putative target protein structures that can be utilized for high throughput in silico drug discovery against P. aeruginosa biofilms. Integrating available structural information on the target proteins in readily accessible format will accelerate the process of drug discovery.
Path Dependency in Physician Decisions
Authors: Jin Lawrence , Tang Rui , Ye Han , Yi Junjian , Zhong Songfa
Published: September 2023

We examine path dependency in physician decisions in an emergency department setting, and find that physicians’ treatment decisions for the current and previous patients are positively correlated. We show that the positive autocorrelation is higher when the current patient is of greater medical uncertainty or more similar to the previous patient in terms of observed characteristics and when the physician is less experienced or more fatigued. We then show that these patterns are highly consistent with the memory and attention model, whereby the physician’s current decision is anchored to her previous decision. The results from both reduced-form analyses and structural estimations provide further support for the importance of memory and attention in physician decision-making.
chi‐miR‐130b‐3p regulates the ZEA‐induced oxidative stress damage through the KEAP1/NRF2 signaling pathway by targeting SESN2 in goat GCs
Authors: Liu Liang , Ma Jianyu , Wei Zongyou , Yang Yingnan , Liu Zifei , Li Dongxu , Yu Xiaoqing , Fan Yixuan , Wang Feng , Wan Yongjie
Published: September 2023

As a dominant mycotoxin, zearalenone (ZEA) has attracted extensive attention due to its estrogen‐like effect and oxidative stress damage in cells. In order to find a way to relieve cell oxidative stress damage caused by ZEA, we treated goat granulosa cells (GCs) with ZEA and did a whole transcriptome sequencing. The results showed that the expression level of Sesterin2 (SESN2) was promoted extremely significantly in the ZEA group (p < .01). In addition, our research demonstrated that SESN2 could regulate oxidative stress level in GCs through Recombinant Kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1)/Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2) signaling pathway. The overexpression of SESN2 could reduce the oxidative damage, whereas knockdown of SESN2 would aggravate the oxidative damage caused by ZEA. What's more, microRNA (miRNA) chi‐miR‐130b‐3p can bind to SESN2 3′‐untranslated region (3′UTR) to regulate the expression of SESN2. The mimics/inhibition of chi‐miR‐130b‐3p would have an effect on oxidative damage triggered by ZEA in GCs as well. In summary, these results elucidate a new pathway by which chi‐miR‐130b‐3p affects the KEAP1/NRF2 pathway in GCs by modulating SESN2 expression in response to ZEA‐induced oxidative stress damage.
Next Generation Development of Hybrid Continuous Flow Pediatric Total Artificial Heart Technology: Design–Build–Test
Authors: Hirschhorn Matthew D. , Lawley Jonathan E. M. , Roof Andrew J. , Johnson Arthur P. T. , Stoddard William A. , Stevens Randy M. , Rossano Joseph , Arabia Francisco , Tchantchaleishvili Vakhtang , Massey H. Todd , Day Steven W. , Throckmorton Amy L.
Published: September 2023

To address the unmet clinical need for pediatric circulatory support, we are developing an operationally versatile, hybrid, continuous-flow, total artificial heart (“Dragon Heart”). This device integrates a magnetically levitated axial and centrifugal blood pump. Here, we utilized a validated axial flow pump, and we focused on the development of the centrifugal pump. A motor was integrated to drive the centrifugal pump, achieving 50% size reduction. The motor design was simulated by finite element analysis, and pump design improvement was attained by computational fluid dynamics. A prototype centrifugal pump was constructed from biocompatible 3D printed parts for the housing and machined metal parts for the drive system. Centrifugal prototype testing was conducted using water and then bovine blood. The fully combined device (i.e., axial pump nested inside of the centrifugal pump) was tested to ensure proper operation. We demonstrated the hydraulic performance of the two pumps operating in tandem, and we found that the centrifugal blood pump performance was not adversely impacted by the simultaneous operation of the axial blood pump. The current iteration of this design achieved a range of operation overlapping our target range. Future design iterations will further reduce size and incorporate complete and active magnetic levitation.
Statins, commonly coprescribed drugs, and concomitant risk factors: A protective, neutral, or harmful association with common cancer types development: A 10-year multicentric retrospective lebanese study
Authors: Chalhoub Issam G. , Boulos Rita T. , Dagher Yara G. , El Helou Sandra , Haifa Karen G. , Atallah Bachir , Nasr Fadi , Kassab Issam , Chahine Mirna N.
Published: September 2023

Elevated blood levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol are a major cardiovascular risk factor, and cholesterol-lowering drugs are among the most prescribed drugs worldwide. Cancer is the second leading cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. The relationship between cancer development and statins intake is controversial, and there are no clear studies in Lebanon and the Middle East concerning this topic. Hence, our study aimed to search for any possible association of statin intake as well as other medications (proton pump inhibitors [PPI], metformin, Aspirin, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme inhibitors, and fenofibrate) with lung, colorectal cancer (CRC), and bladder cancer development in the Lebanese population. A retrospective study was performed on 709 subjects divided into 2 main groups: control (no cancer ± statin intake), and cases (either lung, or colorectal, or bladder cancer ± statin intake). Collected data included the age and gender of the patient, socioeconomic status, presence of cardiovascular disease and comorbidities, cancer risk factors, and the intake type, dose, and duration of statins. Bivariate, multivariate, and binary logistic analyses were enrolled. Out of 709 participants, 63.2% were males and 75% were cancer-positive (24.1%: lung cancer, 26.7%: CRC, 24.1%: bladder cancer). The overall intake of statins was not shown to significantly affect cancer development. However, a duration-response relationship was established between Simvastatin and lung cancer (odds ratio [OR]=1.208) as well as bladder cancer (OR=1.189). No significant association was found between each statin and CRC. Although PPIs intake was associated with a possibly harmful effect on lung cancer development (OR=3.42), it revealed a protective association with CRC development (OR=0.38). Other risk factors such as smoking and age were strongly associated (harmful) with lung and bladder cancer development. Physical inactivity and a family history of CRC were each associated with a harmful effect on CRC development. A harmful association with the development of lung and bladder cancer was found with the increasing duration of intake of Simvastatin. Other drugs such as PPIs and specific risk factors were also associated negatively or positively with the development of these 3 cancers. These findings should be validated by further investigations to guide clinicians on optimal treatment options for their patients.
GDF-15 (a biomarker for metformin) and the risk of COVID-19: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Ya , Yao Peishan , Li Kai , Qin Shanyu
Published: September 2023

Background:

Regarding the impact of metformin on COVID-19, there are currently varying opinions from multiple studies. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) is a biomarker of metformin use and dosage, and we used two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the causal effect of GDF-15 (metformin) on COVID-19 susceptibility, hospitalization, and severe COVID-19, thereby guiding the selection of glucose-lowering agents for diabetic patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

Two sets of genetic tools were utilized for MR analysis, derived from publicly available genetic data. The first set was GDF-15 genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from a study with 5440 participants, while the second set was COVID-19 GWAS data from the Host Genetics Initiative (HGI) GWAS meta-analysis. The primary method used to assess causal effects was random effects inverse variance weighted estimation. Complementary methods included weighted median and MR-Egger analyses. Sensitivity analysis was performed using Cochran Q tests, MR-Egger intercept tests, MR-PRESSO, leave-one-out analyses, and funnel plots.

Results:

GDF-15 increased the risk of severe COVID-19 in patients (OR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.03–1.19; P = .006); there was no causal effect of GDF-15 on hospitalization for COVID-19 (OR = 1.02, 95% CI 0.96–1.07; P = .47) or susceptibility to COVID-19 in the general population (OR = 1.010, 95% CI 0.988–1.034; P = .354).

Conclusions:

Our study supports the notion that GDF-15 increases the risk of severe COVID-19 in patients. However, there is no causal relationship between GDF-15 and hospitalization or susceptibility to COVID-19.
Anti-amphiphysin antibody-associated paraneoplastic brainstem encephalitis with pruritus and dysphagia as the first symptoms: A case report
Authors: Wang Jin , Mi Xiaokun , Ban Feng , Zhao Jingxia
Published: September 2023

Rationale:

Anti-amphiphysin antibodies are uncommonly detected in paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes (PNS), especially in patients with small cell lung cancer. Here, we report the first case of anti-amphiphysin antibody-associated PNS with pruritus and dysphagia as the first complaints.

Patient concerns:

The patient was a 58-year-old man who sought medical advice with a chief complaint of dysphagia and the lung occupancy. We found that he had developed progressive pruritus several months ago.

Diagnoses:

In the outer basal segment of the right lung lower lobe, PET-CT revealed small occupancies with hypermetabolism. Later, the pathology showed small cell lung cancer. And anti-amphiphysin antibodies were detected in serum. Above all, the patient’s symptoms improved significantly after antitumor treatment. Even neither of the 2 cranial enhancement MRIs showed any meaningful imaging signs, the above evidence could confirm the diagnosis of PNS.

Interventions:

The chemotherapy regimen was etoposide 0.1g d1-3+cisplatin 40 mg d1-3 (q3w). Paroxetine 20 mg/day was given to relieve the itching.

Outcomes:

After the treatment, the Watian water swallowing test dropped from grade 5 to grade 1, the intense itching also became tolerable.

Lessons:

Clinicians should consider diagnoses other than anxiety states or esophageal cancer in a patient with pruritus and dysphagia, such as PNS.
Exploring the relationship between personality and chronic pain in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Rubén Muñoz Cortés , Soriano Pastor José Francisco , Monsalve Dolz Vicente
Published: September 2023

Despite the growing body of research on chronic pain in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding of the influence of psychological factors on pain experienced by individuals with this condition. This study aims to delve into the correlation between personality traits and various aspects of pain, such as frequency, intensity, appraisal, and coping mechanisms, in a significant sample of adults with OI. Additionally, the investigation seeks to identify whether certain personality profiles may be more susceptible to chronic pain within this specific population. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 418 adults diagnosed with OI. Participants completed an online survey that assessed sociodemographic and clinical variables, pain parameters, personality traits, pain appraisal, and coping strategies. Subsequently, descriptive, correlational, cluster and comparative analyses were performed. Up to 83% of the participants reported experiencing pain on a regular basis. Regarding personality dimensions, moderate scores were obtained, with no significant differences compared to the general population. Neuroticism emerged as the trait showing the most robust relationships with the evaluated variables. It positively correlated with pain intensity, frequency, and the perception of pain as threatening (P < .001). Conversely, higher levels of extraversion were associated with a reduction in pain and its threatening perception (P < .001). Finally, the cluster analysis revealed a personality profile that showed greater vulnerability in pain adaptation, characterized by high levels of neuroticism and low levels of extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Chronic pain is prevalent in adults with OI. Personality dimensions maintain a significant relationship with this pain, acting as vulnerability or protective factors. Consequently, specific personality profiles are associated with poorer adaptation. Understanding these profiles would allow for a deeper comprehension of the pain experience in adults with OI.
Synchronous occurrence of small cell lung cancer and primary rectal dedifferentiated liposarcoma with osteosarcomatous differentiation: A rare case report
Authors: Zheng Xiangyu , Wu Guangfeng , Fu Yongxian , Fan Rui
Published: September 2023

Rationale:

Rectal dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDL) and DDL with osteosarcomatous differentiation both are extremely unwonted. In addition, there are no reports of simultaneous DDL with osteosarcoma differentiation with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) to date. Therefore, it is imperative to alert clinicians and pathologists to this extremely rare and instructive synchronous tumor.

Patient concerns:

The patient was a 63-year-old male who presented with intermittent hematochezia and a swelling in the anus. Irregular masses were found on computed tomography (CT) examinations of the chest and abdomen respectively.

Diagnosis:

The final diagnosis of synchronous occurrence of SCLC and primary rectal DDL with osteosarcomatous differentiation was established by radiological, histological, immunohistochemical and molecular findings.

Interventions:

The patient underwent a puncture biopsy of the right lung mass and a complete resection of the rectal mass.

Outcomes:

The patient abandoned treatment, and multiple SCLC metastases appeared multiple metastasis 8 months after the operation. In the end, he expired suddenly due to severe cerebral hemorrhage caused by brain SCLC metastasis.

Lessons:

DDL with osteosarcoma differentiation is infrequent, and its accurate diagnosis is based on morphology, immunohistochemistry and the necessary molecular tests. In rare cases, DDL occurs concurrently with other malignancies and and will be a challenge for pathologists and clinicians at this time. Accordingly, a comprehensive examination to identify possible synchronous tumors is very important in clinical practice.
The impact of concomitant hepatitis C virus infection on liver and cardiovascular risks in patients with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Tsai Pei-Shan , Cheng Yu-Ming , Wang Chia-Chi , Kao Jia-Horng
Published: September 2023

Background:

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients with hepatic steatosis are excluded from the diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The new name and diagnostic criteria of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) were proposed in 2020 to replace the original term NAFLD. The clinical outcome of MAFLD patients with concomitant chronic HCV infection requires further investigation.

Methods

The participants from Taiwan bio-bank cohort were included. MAFLD is defined as the presence of fatty liver, plus any of the following three conditions: overweight/obesity, type 2 diabetes, or metabolic dysfunction. The patients with positive anti-HCV were considered chronic HCV infections. The severity of liver fibrosis was determined using the fibrosis-4 index and NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS). The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) was assessed using intima-media thickness (IMT) or plaques of carotid duplex ultrasound.

Results

A total of 18 907 participants (age 55.79 ± 10.42; males 31.9%) were included for final analysis. The prevalence of MAFLD and chronic HCV infections were 39.2% and 2.6%, respectively. According to the status of MAFLD and chronic HCV infection, they were distributed to four groups: ‘dual etiology group’, ‘MAFLD alone’, ‘HCV alone’, and healthy controls. Compared with the ‘MAFLD alone’ group, the ‘dual etiology’ group had a lower frequency of the male sex, reduced levels of serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL; but overall older age, a higher percentage of hypertension history. In addition, they had higher levels of serum aspartate aminotransferase, fibrosis-4 index, and NFS; but no difference in levels of alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, fatty liver index, IMT, and the percentage of carotid plaques. Using binary logistic regression, chronic HCV infection was associated with more severe liver fibrosis, but not with carotid plaques in MAFLD patients.

Conclusion

MAFLD patients with concomitant HCV infection, a specific phenotype of MAFLD may include a higher risk of advanced liver fibrosis, but a similar risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease compared to those without.
Doris Howes Calloway
Authors: Blackburn Mary L. , King Janet C. , Butte Nancy F. , Murphy Suzanne P. , Yates Allison A. , Kretsch Molly J.
Published: September 2023

This is the last in a series of 9 articles focusing on Doris Howes Calloway—A Woman Who Changed Nutrition Around the World. The pioneering “woman behind the science” is presented through the eyes of her students and associates. Her memorable humanitarian spirit, compassion, sensitivity, and the lens through which she viewed diversity, equity, and inclusion resonated with people worldwide. Her endearing personal qualities and professional ethics enhanced her stature as a trailblazing nutrition scientist, outstanding role model, exceptional mentor, and worldwide social justice benefactor in nutrition. Her students cherished the joy of knowing her and took pride in following in her footsteps.
Loss of embryonically-derived Kupffer cells during hypercholesterolemia accelerates atherosclerosis development
Authors: Fima Rebecca , Dussaud Sébastien , Benbida Cheïma , Blanchet Margault , Lanthiez François , Poupel Lucie , Brambilla Claudia , Moreau Martine , Boissonnas Alexandre , Gautier Emmanuel L. , Huby Thierry
Published: September 2023

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases. The liver plays a key role in the regulation of plasma cholesterol levels and hosts a large population of tissue-resident macrophages known as Kupffer cells (KCs). KCs are located in the hepatic sinusoids where they ensure key functions including blood immune surveillance. However, how KCs homeostasis is affected by the build-up of cholesterol-rich lipoproteins that occurs in the circulation during hypercholesterolemia remains unknown. Here, we found that embryo-derived KCs (EmKCs) accumulated large amounts of lipoprotein-derived cholesterol, in part through the scavenger receptor CD36, and massively expanded early after the induction of hypercholesterolemia. After this rapid adaptive response, EmKCs exhibited mitochondrial oxidative stress and their numbers gradually diminished while monocyte-derived KCs (MoKCs) with reduced cholesterol-loading capacities seeded the KC pool. Decreased proportion of EmKCs in the KC pool enhanced liver cholesterol content and exacerbated hypercholesterolemia, leading to accelerated atherosclerotic plaque development. Together, our data reveal that KC homeostasis is perturbed during hypercholesterolemia, which in turn alters the control of plasma cholesterol levels and increases atherosclerosis.
Beauty beacon: correlated strategies for the Fisher runaway process
Authors: Ryabko Daniil , Vaca Angustias , Pazoca Prudencio
Published: September 2023

Suppose that females choose males based on attributes that do not signal any genetic quality that is not related to the choice itself. Can being choosy confer selective advantage in this situation? We introduce correlated strategies, which means that females, when making their choice, may take into consideration external and independent random factors that are known to be observable by all. Individual-based simulation is used to show that, in this case, choosiness can emerge against the cost of over 25% when pitted against randomly mating females. Moreover, after being established in the population, it can sustain costs of over 35% . While such costs are not biologically plausible, they demonstrate unequivocally that sexual choice is a strong evolutionary force. Thus, correlated strategies are shown to be an evolutionary tool that channels randomness from the environment into genetic diversity. In addition, it turns out that a higher number of attributes in the ornament makes the choice more advantageous, which may result in a runaway complexity of sexual traits. Implications for the evolution of (female) cognitive abilities and speciation are discussed.
Unveiling the enigma of Brain-resident immune cells
Authors: Hwang Sunsook , Jang Juneil , Park Kyungsoo , Yim Yeong Shin
Published: September 2023

The immune system has been extensively studied in traditional immune hubs like the spleen and lymph nodes. However, recent advances in immunology highlight unique immune cell characteristics across anatomical compartments. In this study, we challenged conventional thinking by uncovering distinct immune cell populations within the brain parenchyma, separate from those in the blood, meninges, and choroid plexus, with unique transcriptional profiles. Brain-resident immune cells are not derived from maternal immune cells, and age-related changes, with an increase in CD8+T cells in aged mice, are noted. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) alters microglia’s interaction with brain-resident immune cells, emphasizing immune-brain dynamics. Furthermore, we reveal dynamic immune cell interactions and essential cytokine roles in brain homeostasis, with stable cytokine expression but emerging signaling pathways in AD. In summary, this study advances our understanding of brain-resident immune cells in both normal and pathological conditions.
Common food preservatives impose distinct selective pressures onSalmonellaTyphimurium planktonic and biofilm populations
Authors: Assaf Justin Abi , Holden Emma R. , Trampari Eleftheria , Webber Mark A.
Published: September 2023

Food preservatives are crucial in controlling microbial growth in processed foods to maintain food safety. Bacterial biofilms pose a threat in the food chain by facilitating persistence on a range of surfaces and food products. Cells in a biofilm are often highly tolerant of antimicrobials and can evolve in response to antimicrobial exposure. Little is known about the efficacy of preservatives against biofilms and their potential impact on the evolution of antimicrobial resistance. In this study we investigated how the common food pathogenSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium responded to subinhibitory concentrations of four common food preservatives (sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium nitrite or sodium lactate) when grown planktonically and in biofilms. We found that each preservative exerted a unique selective pressure onS. Typhimurium populations grown planktonically and in a biofilm. Biofilm formation itself seemed to confer protection when exposed to each of the four preservatives, more so than previous exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of preservatives. There was a trade-off between biofilm formation and growth in the presence of three of the four preservatives, where prolonged preservative exposure resulted in reduced biofilm biomass and matrix production over time. Despite the differences in biofilm formation and preservative tolerance seen following three preservative stresses, they selected for mutations in global stress response regulatorsrpoSandcrp. There was no evidence for any selection of cross-resistance to antibiotics after preservative exposure, and some evidence that antagonism between preservatives can be exploited in compound cocktails to reduce contamination in the food chain.

Highlights

Preservative-specific evolutionary adaptation ofSalmonellawas shown over time.

A trade-off between adaptation and biofilm formation was observed.

No cross-resistance to antibiotics was seen after preservative exposure.

Mutations were found to be preservative-specific, with some common ones likerpoSandcrp.
Sharp habitat shifts, evolutionary tipping points and rescue: quantifying the perilous path of a specialist species toward a refugium in a changing environment
Authors: Dekens Léonard
Published: September 2023

Specialists species thriving under specific environmental conditions in narrow geographic ranges are widely recognised as heavily threatened by climate deregulation. Many might rely on both their potential to adapt and to disperse toward a refugium to avoid extinction. It is thus crucial to understand the influence of environmental conditions on the unfolding process of adaptation. Here, I study the eco-evolutionary dynamics of a sexually reproducing specialist species in a two-patch quantitative genetic model with moving optima. Thanks to a separation of ecological and evolutionary time scales and the phase-line study of the selection gradient, I derive the critical environmental speed for persistence, which reflects how the existence of a refugium impacts extinction patterns. Moreover, the analysis provides key insights about the dynamics that arise on the path to-wards this refugium. I show that after an initial increase of population size, there exists a critical environmental speed above which the species crosses a tipping point, resulting into an abrupt habitat switch. Besides, when selection for local adaptation is strong, this habitat switch passes through an evolutionary “death valley”, leading to a phenomenon related to evolutionary rescue, that can promote extinction for lower environmental speeds than the critical one.
Targeting high-density aromatic peptides to cardiolipin optimizes the mitochondrial membrane potential
Authors: Birk Alexander , Liu Shaoyi , Garcia-Marin Virginia , MacNeil Margaret A.
Published: September 2023

The mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) is created by the accumulation of protons on an outer leaflet of the inner mitochondrial membrane and drives the synthesis of most cellular ATP, which is essential for cellular bioenergetics and survival. The ΔΨm also facilitates the electrogenic transport of cations, such as Ca2+, and regulates generation of reactive oxygen species, which serves as a powerful bioenergetic and stress-signaling regulator. Proton trapping on the outer leaflet of the inner mitochondrial membrane of mitochondrial cristae could be controlled by cardiolipin when the local pH is above 8. However, there is presently no technology that effectively targets strong bases to cardiolipin.

We have developed a novel, high-density aromatic peptide (HDAP2) to preserve a proton gradient-driven potential in mitochondria by increasing proton trapping on cardiolipin (CL). HDAP2-induced formation of cardiolipin-HDAP2 complexes accumulated positive charges at the head of CL. The HDAP2-CL vesicles could accumulate the mitochondrial transmembrane potential probe, Tetramethylrhodamine (TMRM). This potential could be uncoupled with Carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) and Dinitrophenol (DNP), indicating that an interaction of HDAP2 with CL could support a proton gradient-driven transmembrane potential.

We demonstrated that this novel, water-soluble peptide is cell-permeable, targets mitochondria without causing cell toxicity, and promotes cell survival during serum starvation. Importantly, the HDAP2-cardiolipin complex-mediated optimization of the proton gradient was supported by the ability of HDAP2 to prevent CCCP-mediated mitochondrial depolarization in ARPE-19 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Based on its mechanism of action, HDAP2 could promote cellular homeostasis, which would have broad clinical applicability for the prevention, recovery and reversal of many acute and chronic disease conditions, such as neurodegeneration, ischemia– reperfusion injury, and inflammation.
The role of green strategic alliances and their impact on green organizational identity and sustainability
Authors: Lopes Cancela Beatriz , Coelho Arnaldo , Neves Maria Elisabete
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of green strategic alliances (GSAs) in fostering a green shared vision (GSVis) and green shared value (GSV) and their impact on green organizational identity (GOI) and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed structural equation modeling to analyze data collected through a 60-item questionnaire administered in Portugal and China, allowing the authors to test their theoretical model.

Findings

The findings of the authors' study indicate that green strategic alliances have a positive influence on the development of a GSVis and GSV in both countries. This, in turn, contributes to improved sustainability and the establishment of a GOI. Furthermore, the authors' results demonstrate that these alliances enhance GSV, resulting in enhanced sustainability performance and a stronger green identity, with a notable increase in awareness of environmental and social practices.

Originality/value

This article is innovative as it applies organizational learning and value creation theories to gain a deeper understanding of how alliances can shape the green identity of companies and contribute to their overall sustainability.
The influence of family firm succession on financialisaton: evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Lijie , Baranchenko Yevhen , Lin Zhibin , Ren Li
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study seeks to fill a gap in the literature by examining the role of family firm succession in shaping the firm's approach to financialisation, which has received limited attention in the previous research. In addition, the study explores the influence of factors such as clan culture, concentration of control and generational differences on the relationship between succession and financialisation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were based on a sample of 7,023 firm-year observations, compiled from the listed family firms in China's A-share. Several tobit models are used for analysing the data and testing the hypotheses.

Findings

Family firm succession is negatively related to the level of financialisation, and this relationship is influenced by clan culture, concentration of control and the stage of succession. Specifically, a higher clan culture, a greater concentration of ultimate control by the controlling family member and the dominance of the first generation in management strengthens the negative relationship between family firm succession and financialisation.

Originality/value

This study offers new insights into the consequence of family firm succession on a new area of the firm's strategy, i.e. financialisation. The study further advances the understanding of family firm succession by considering the role of clan culture, the concentration of control and the stage of the succession process.
Time series observation of relationship between United States private residential construction spending and its indicators
Authors: Zhang Xingrui , Yang Eunhwa , Wang Yunpeng
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Private residential construction spending (PRRESCON) is an important indicator for assessing housing supply/demand and economic strength. Currently, there are no comprehensive studies on PRRESCON forecasting. This study aims to address the gap in knowledge by conducting a comprehensive exploration of indicators for PRRESCON using time series methods.

Design/methodology/approach

Granger causality test trials were conducted between PRRESCON and all of its potential indicators before the vector autoregression model was implemented. Extensive effort was exerted toward model interpretation in the form of impulse–response functions.

Findings

Impulse–response functions indicated that the escalation of labor supply, material/construction costs and issued building permits at any given time consistently had a positive impact on PRRESCON 10–11 months later, with a 95% confidence interval. Conversely, the unemployment rate and housing value escalations at any given time were found to have a negative impact on PRRESCON 10–11 months later in more than 95% of the instances. Furthermore, material/construction cost escalations at any given time were shown to have a negative impact on PRRESCON 7 months later in more than 95% of the instances.

Originality/value

Current forecasting literature on construction spending focuses exclusively on the parameter’s relationship with gross domestic product and the architectural billing index. This study reveals many additional indicators, many of which are directly related to the implementation of housing development projects. The paper is also the first in the body of forecasting literature, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to conduct impulse–response analysis on residential construction spending.
Life as a relational unit, the process of ecopoiesis
Authors: Lavanderos Leonardo , Malpartida Alejandro
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to introduce the concept of Ecopoiesis. Introduction of the concept of ecopiesis, which explains the linkage strategy between relational and energetic resources (sustainability) that enable the relational viability of living things.

Design/methodology/approach

The design is based on the use of the relationship between abduction, epigenesis, cismogenesis and morphogenesis.

Findings

This paper concludes with a counter-intuitive proposal to the dominant lines of thought, distinguishing: Complexity as vital interweaving, Aristotelian Oikos as communitarian distinction, Organism-Entorno from relational theory (beyond the interactional), in a cybernetic referential framework that allows tending to sustain and sustain life from Ecopoiesis.

Originality/value

According to a relational theory of cognition, the sources of knowledge go beyond genetic and environmental factors. In the sphere of explanation, this study moves from “how much,” “why” and “how” to “why not.” Thus, the processes involved in understanding the living are forced to move from the logic of parts to the logic of patterns, which implies developing an explanation that considers the unique characteristics of development, encompassing the diverse origins of the organization of the living.
The confessional community
Authors: Garcia Angela
Published: September 2023

In the past two decades, drug‐treatment centers called anexos (annexes) have proliferated throughout Mexico. Run and attended by the working poor, anexos’ therapeutic practices blend criminal violence and religious ritual, and they are widely condemned as abusive and unethical. Based on several years of ethnographic research in Mexico City, this article situates anexos within a larger historical frame and examines how they conjure and rework contemporary forms of affliction through a novel form of confessional practice. It shows how confession simultaneously reproduces pervasive images of violence while also disclosing projects of communitarian survival that are ethically affirmative. In doing so, this article demonstrates that anexos’ confessional practices constitute an aesthetics and politics of recovery that calls for a rethinking of criminal, religious, and therapeutic domains.
The impact of age‐relevant and generic infographics on knowledge, attitudes and intention to attend cervical screening: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Waite Frances , Marlow Laura A. V. , Nemec Martin , Waller Jo
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Cervical screening uptake in England is falling. Infographics could strengthen intention to attend, increase positive attitudes and improve knowledge. Age targeting could improve these outcomes further. We tested the impact of generic and age‐targeted infographics.

Design

A randomized controlled trial using an age‐stratified, parallel‐group design.

Methods

Women aged 25–64 (n = 2095) were recruited through an online panel and randomized to see one of the three infographics. We tested: (i) impact of a generic cervical screening infographic compared to a control infographic on an unrelated topic with all screening age women and (ii) impact of an age‐targeted infographic compared to a generic cervical screening infographic with older women (50–64 years). Intentions, knowledge and attitudes were measured.

Results

Women aged 25–64 years who viewed the generic infographic had significantly higher intentions [F(1, 1513) = 6.14, p = .013,  = .004], more accurate beliefs about the timeline of cervical cancer development (OR: 5.18, 95% CI: 3.86–6.95), more accurate social norms (OR: 3.03, 95% CI: 2.38–3.87) and more positive beliefs about screening benefits (OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.52–3.28) than those viewing the control infographic. In the older age group, there was no significant difference in intention between those viewing the generic versus age‐targeted versions [F(1, 607) = .03, p = .853,  < .001], but the age‐targeted version was more engaging [F(1, 608) = 9.41, p = .002,  = .015].

Conclusions

A cervical screening infographic can result in more positive attitudes and better knowledge and may have a small impact on intentions. Although age targeting did not affect intention, it had a positive impact on engagement and may therefore be useful in encouraging women to read and process materials.
Class matters—Children's perceptions of sports coaching
Authors: Goosen Tanya , Twitchen Alex
Published: September 2023

The aim of the study was to acquire an insight into the experiences of 84 children from two schools in the United Kingdom who were asked to describe their interpretation of ‘excellent sports coaching’. Using visual and narrative research methods it was found that the influence of social class was significant. Children from higher socioeconomic groups described excellent sports coaching as a structured and adult‐led process, whereas children from lower socioeconomic classes described it as being more play‐like and self‐determined. Reasons for this difference are explained through the contrasting attitudes to sport and physical activity present amongst different social classes.