bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New imaging tools reveal live cellular collagen secretion, fibril dynamics and network organisation
Authors: Kent Olivia , Casey Ellie R. , Brown Max , Bell Steven , Ehrman Matt , Flagler Mike , Määttä Arto , Benham Adam M. , Hawkins Timothy J.
Published: August 2024

Although light microscopy has been used to examine the early trafficking of collagen within the cell, much of our understanding of the detailed organisation of cell deposited collagen is from static electron microscopy studies. To understand the dynamics of live cell collagen deposition and fibril organisation, we generated a bright photostable mNGCol1α2 fusion protein and employed a range of microscopy techniques to follow its intracellular transport and elucidate extracellular fibril formation. Our findings reveal the dynamics of fibril growth and the dynamic nature of collagen network interactions at the cellular level. Notably we observed molecular events that build network organisation, including fibril bundling, bifurcation, directionality along existing fibrils, and looping/intertwining behaviours. Strikingly, mNGCol1α2 fluorescence intensity maxima can mark a fibril before another growing collagen fibril intersects at this location. Our study shows that N-terminal protease site is not an absolute requirement for collagen fibril incorporation and is, to our knowledge, the first time that cell-directed collagen fibrillogenesis has been visualised at high resolution in real time. The approach paves the way for assessing the dynamic organisation and assembly of collagen into the extracellular matrix in skin models and other tissues during health, ageing and disease.
Achieve Handle Level Random Access in Encrypted DNA Archival Storage System via Frequency Dictionary Mapping Coding
Authors: Cao Ben , Li Xue , Wang Bin , He Tiantian , Zheng Yanfen , Zhang Xiaokang , Zhang Qiang
Published: August 2024

DNA as a storage medium has the characteristics of high storage density and durability, but the existing DNA storage system has a high latency, and lacks the consideration of data security. In order to improve the availability of DNA storage, this paper proposes that Frequency Dictionary Mapping Coding (FDMC) implements handle-level random access in DNA Archival storage, and a hybrid e-molecular encryption strategy and multi-level error correction algorithm are provided to ensure data security and integrity. The results of the simulation and wet experiments demonstrate that FDMC can achieve handle-level random access in lossless encrypted DNA storage systems, which balances security and convenience. In terms of read and write consistency, FDMC has significant advantages in storage density and robustness of data recovery. Even in the extreme case of DNA sequence loss of 10%, it can still recover 91.74% of the original data while ensuring storage density above 1.80 bits/nt. In summary, FDMC improves the application range of DNA as a storage medium and bridges the gap between DNA storage and traditional storage modes in the storage and reading of large-scale archives.
Gene expression and alternative splicing analysis in a large-scale Multiple Sclerosis study
Authors: Sak Müge , Chariker Julia H. , Park Juw Won , Rouchka Eric C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune neurodegenerative disease affecting approximately 3 million people globally. Despite rigorous research on MS, aspects of its development and progression remain unclear. Understanding molecular mechanisms underlying MS is crucial to providing insights into disease pathways, identifying potential biomarkers for early diagnosis, and revealing novel therapeutic targets for improved patient outcomes.

Methods

We utilized publicly available RNA-seq data (GSE138614) from post-mortem white matter tissues of five donors without any neurological disorder and ten MS patient donors. This data was interrogated for differential gene expression, alternative splicing and single nucleotide variants as well as for functional enrichments in the resulting datasets.

Results

A comparison of non-MS white matter (WM) to MS samples yielded differentially expressed genes involved in adaptive immune response, cell communication, and developmental processes. Genes with expression changes positively correlated with tissue inflammation were enriched in the immune system and receptor interaction pathways. Negatively correlated genes were enriched in neurogenesis, nervous system development, and metabolic pathways. Alternatively spliced transcripts between WM and MS lesions included genes that play roles in neurogenesis, myelination, and oligodendrocyte differentiation, such as brain enriched myelin associated protein (BCAS1), discs large MAGUK scaffold protein 1 (DLG1), KH domain containing RNA binding (QKI), and myelin basic protein (MBP). Our approach to comparing normal appearing WM (NAWM) and active lesion (AL) from one donor and NAWM and chronic active (CA) tissues from two donors, showed that different IgH and IgK gene subfamilies were differentially expressed. We also identified pathways involved in white matter injury repair and remyelination in these tissues. Differentially spliced genes between these lesions were involved in axon and dendrite structure stability. We also identified exon skipping events and spontaneous single nucleotide polymorphisms in membrane associated ring-CH-type finger 1 (MARCHF1), UDP glycosyltransferase 8 (UGT8), and other genes important in autoimmunity and neurodegeneration.

Conclusion

Overall, we identified unique genes, pathways, and novel splicing events affecting disease progression that can be further investigated as potential novel drug targets for MS treatment.
Tools and Resources at the Maize Genetics and Genomics Database (MaizeGDB)
Authors: Woodhouse Margaret R. , Cannon Ethalinda K. , Portwood John L. , Gardiner Jack M. , Hayford Rita K. , Haley Olivia , Andorf Carson M.
Published: August 2024

The Maize Genetics and Genomics Database (MaizeGDB) is the community resource for maize researchers, offering a suite of tools, informatics resources, and curated data sets to support maize genetics, genomics, and breeding research. Here, we provide an overview of the key resources available at MaizeGDB, including maize genomes, comparative genomics, and pan-genomics tools. This review aims to familiarize users with the range of options available for maize research and highlights the importance of MaizeGDB as a central hub for the maize research community. By providing a detailed snapshot of the database's capabilities, we hope to enable researchers to make use of MaizeGDB's resources, ultimately assisting them to better study the evolution and diversity of maize.
Selection of Antigen Binders from a Chicken Single-Chain Variable Fragment Library
Authors: Yang Hyunji , Chae Jisu , Kim Hyori , Noh Jinsung , Chung Junho
Published: August 2024

Antibody production against an antigen of interest is highly efficient in chickens, and the use of chicken antibody libraries in phage display can result in high-affinity single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) for multiple applications. After library preparation from an animal immunized with the antigen of interest, the next step involves the identification of antigen binders. Here, we describe a process for the screening of a phage display chicken library using a technique called bio-panning. It consists of several rounds of binding scFv-displaying phage to antigens, followed by washing, elution, and reamplification. We also describe the steps for assessing clone pools obtained after bio-panning via an ELISA-based procedure known as “phage ELISA” to identify single clones. Last, we provide the steps for using high-throughput sequencing to analyze the pool of selected clones.
Generation of a Phage Display Chicken Single-Chain Variable Fragment Library
Authors: Yang Hyunji , Chae Jisu , Kim Hyori , Noh Jinsung , Chung Junho
Published: August 2024

Phage-displayed antibody fragment libraries can be constructed using essentially any species that is easily immunized, as long as the immunoglobulin variable region gene sequences are known. This protocol describes the procedures for the generation of a phage-displayed chicken single-chain variable fragment (scFv) library after immunization with a target antigen. Briefly, the rearranged heavy chain variable region (VH) genes and theλlight chain variable region (Vλ) genes are amplified separately and are linked through two separate PCR steps to give the final scFv genes. The genes are then cloned into pComb3XSS to generate the phage display chicken scFv library, which can then be used for test and final library ligations.
Generation of Chicken Antibody Libraries and Selection of Antigen Binders
Authors: Yang Hyunji , Chae Jisu , Kim Hyori , Noh Jinsung , Chung Junho
Published: August 2024

Chicken antibodies have been widely used for research and diagnostic purposes. Chicken antibodies are often cross-reactive to epitopes shared by humans, nonhuman primates, and other mammals, and can be tested in many mouse disease models, which provides an advantage for their preclinical study and evaluation. In addition, the variable region of chicken antibodies has unique structural characteristics, including noncanonical cysteine residues in the heavy chain complementarity-determining region (CDR)3 and a long heavy chain CDR3, which together with a short light chain CDR enable the formation of unconventional antibody paratopes. As chickens have single functional copies of theVHandJHgenes, and the somatic gene conversion process usually involvesDHgenes, all functional VDJ gene fragments can be obtained from the B-cell repertoire using a single PCR primer set, without any primer bias. As for the light chain, chickens only have aVλlight chain, composed of a singleVλandJλgene pair. Therefore, the chicken light chain repertoire can also be accurately amplified using a single primer set. This unbiased reconstitution of the chicken B-cell repertoire provides a great advantage not only in the construction of phage display libraries but also for the in silico selection of antigen binders from a virtual B-cell receptor repertoire. Here, we introduce the use of chicken antibodies in research, diagnostic, and therapeutic fields. In addition, the chromosomal organization of chicken immunoglobulin genes and its diversification mechanisms for shaping the antibody repertoire are also discussed.
Phenomenological investigation of the beauty content of a proton in the framework of
kt
-factorization using Kimber-Martin-Ryskin and Martin-Ryskin-Watt unintegrated parton distributions
Authors: Olanj N.
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we address the reduced beauty cross section [σredbb¯(x,Q2)] and the beauty structure function [F2bb¯(x,Q2)], to study the beauty content of a proton. We calculate σredbb¯ and F2bb¯ in the kt-factorization formalism by using the integral form of the Kimber-Martin-Ryskin and Martin-Ryskin-Watt unintegrated parton distribution function (KMR and MRW-UPDF) with the angular ordering constraint (AOC) and the MMHT2014 PDF set as the input. Recently Guiot and van Hameren demonstrated that the upper limit, kmax, of the transverse-momentum integration performed in the kt-factorization formalism should be almost equal to Q, where Q is the hard scale, otherwise it leads to an overestimation of the proton structure function [F2(x,Q2)]. In the present work, we show that kmax cannot be equal to Q at low and moderate energy region, and also by considering the gluon and quark contributions to the same perturbative order and a physical gauge for the gluon, i.e., Aμqμ′=0 in the calculation of F2bb¯ in the kt-factorization formalism, we do not encounter any overestimation of the theoretical predictions due to different choices of kmax>Q. Finally, the resulted σredbb¯ and F2bb¯ are compared to the experimental data and the theoretical predictions. In general, the extracted σredbb¯ and F2bb¯ based on the KMR and MRW approaches are in perfect agreement with the experimental data and theoretical predictions at high energies, but at low and moderate energies, the one developed from the KMR approach has better consistency than that of the MRW approach.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Temporal interaction and its role in the evolution of cooperation
Authors: He Yujie , Ren Tianyu , Zeng Xiao-Jun , Liang Huawen , Yu Liukai , Zheng Junjun
Published: August 2024

This research investigates the impact of dynamic, time-varying interactions on cooperative behavior in social dilemmas. Traditional research has focused on deterministic rules governing pairwise interactions, yet the impact of interaction frequency and synchronization in groups on cooperation remains underexplored. Addressing this gap, our work introduces two temporal interaction mechanisms to model the stochastic or periodic participation of individuals in public goods games, acknowledging real-life variances due to exogenous temporal factors and geographical time differences. We consider that the interaction state significantly influences both game payoff calculations and the strategy updating process, offering new insights into the emergence and sustainability of cooperation. Our results indicate that maximum game participation frequency is suboptimal under a stochastic interaction mechanism. Instead, an intermediate activation probability maximizes cooperation, suggesting a vital balance between interaction frequency and inactivity security. Furthermore, local synchronization of interactions within specific areas is shown to be beneficial, as time differences hinder the spread of cross-structures but promote the formation of dense cooperative clusters with smoother boundaries. We also note that stronger clustering in networks, larger group sizes, and lower noise increase cooperation. This research contributes to understanding the role of node-based temporality and probabilistic interactions in social dilemmas, offering insights into fostering cooperation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Rydberg Molecules Bound by Strong Light Fields
Authors: Hollerith Simon , Walther Valentin , Srakaew Kritsana , Wei David , Adler Daniel , Agrawal Suchita , Weckesser Pascal , Bloch Immanuel , Zeiher Johannes
Published: August 2024

The coupling of an isolated quantum state to a continuum is typically associated with decoherence and decreased lifetime. For coupling rates larger than the bandwidth of the associated continuum, decoherence can be mitigated, and new stable eigenstates emerge. Here, we laser-couple diatomic molecules of highly excited Rydberg atoms, so-called Rydberg macrodimers, to a continuum of free motional states. Enabled by their small vibrational eigenfrequencies, we achieve the regime of strong continuum couplings and observe the appearance of new resonances. We explain the observed spectroscopic features as molecular states emerging in the presence of the light field using a Fano model. For atoms arranged on a lattice, we predict the strong continuum coupling to even stabilize triatomic molecules and find the first signatures of these by observing three-atom loss correlations using quantum gas microscopy. Our results present a mechanism to control decoherence and bind polyatomic molecules using strong light-matter interactions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Electrochemical cell for synchrotron nuclear resonance techniques
Authors: Yaroslavtsev Sergey , Celse Jean-Philippe
Published: August 2024

Developing new materials for Li-ion and Na-ion batteries is a high priority in materials science. Such development always includes performance tests and scientific research. Synchrotron radiation techniques provide unique abilities to study batteries. Electrochemical cell design should be optimized for synchrotron studies without losing electrochemical performance. Such design should also be compatible with operando measurement, which is the most appropriate approach to study batteries and provides the most reliable results. The more experimental setups a cell can be adjusted for, the easier and faster the experiments are to carry out and the more reliable the results will be. This requires optimization of window materials and sizes, cell topology, pressure distribution on electrodes etc. to reach a higher efficiency of measurement without losing stability and reproducibility in electrochemical cycling. Here, we present a cell design optimized for nuclear resonance techniques, tested using nuclear forward scattering, synchrotron Mössbauer source and nuclear inelastic scattering.
Retrieving the time-dependent blood perfusion coefficient in the thermal-wave model of bio-heat transfer
Authors: Alosaimi M. , Lesnic D.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

In order to include the non-negligible lag relaxation time feature that is characteristic of heat transfer in biological bodies, the classical Fourier's law of heat conduction has to be generalized as the Maxwell–Cattaneo law resulting in the thermal-wave model of bio-heat transfer. The purpose of the paper is to retrieve the unknown time-dependent blood perfusion coefficient in such a thermal-wave model of bio-heat transfer from (non-intrusive) measurements of the temperature on an accessible sub-portion of the boundary that may be taken with an infrared scanner.

Design/methodology/approach

The nonlinear and ill-posed problem is reformulated as a nonlinear minimization problem of a Tikhonov regularization functional subject to lower and upper simple bounds on the unknown coefficient. For the numerical discretization, an unconditionally stable direct solver based on the Crank–Nicolson finite-difference scheme is developed. The Tikhonov regularization functional is minimized iteratively by the built-in routine lsqnonlin from the MATLAB optimization toolbox. Numerical results for a benchmark test example are presented and thoroughly discussed, shedding light on the performance and effectiveness of the proposed methodology.

Findings

The inverse problem of obtaining the time-dependent blood perfusion coefficient and the temperature in the thermal-wave model of bio-heat transfer from extra boundary temperature measurement has been solved. In particular, the uniqueness of the solution to this inverse problem has been established. Furthermore, our proposed computational method demonstrated successful attainment of the perfusion coefficient and temperature, even when dealing with noisy data.

Originality/value

The originalities of the present paper are to account for such a more representative thermal-wave model of heat transfer in biological bodies and to investigate the possibility of determining its time-dependent blood perfusion coefficient from non-intrusive boundary temperature measurements.
Knowledge transfer within company-specific production systems: from an MNC subsidiary to local suppliers
Authors: Silva de Lima Danilo Felipe , Gohr Cláudia Fabiana , Costa Santos Luciano , Castro José Márcio de
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the knowledge transfer process for implementing a company-specific production system (XPS) from a subsidiary of a multinational corporation (MNC) to its local suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was adopted and applied in an automotive supply chain. Empirical data were collected from interviews, observations and internal documents.

Findings

The literature shows that the successful XPS implementation depends on the ability to transfer XPS knowledge; the motivation of the source unit to share XPS knowledge; the value and nature of knowledge embedded in XPS; the effectiveness of individual, social and organizational transfer mechanisms; the motivation and absorptive capacity of the target unit and, the organizational, social and relational contexts in which XPS is transferred. Based on the research findings, we develop 12 propositions and presented them in a framework.

Research limitations/implications

This paper expands and enriches the literature on the knowledge transfer process of XPS. The proposed framework establishes theoretical propositions and associations raised by qualitative analysis. However, these propositions are potentially testable on a larger scale for broader generalization.

Practical implications

Managers can recognize critical factors and relationships needed to improve the XPS implementation from an MNC subsidiary to its local suppliers.

Originality/value

The proposed framework provides a scheme to capture the essential critical factors affecting a successful XPS implementation between MNC subsidiaries and local suppliers. Moreover, we found relevant associations between pairs of critical factors that were not identified in the literature.
Enhancing the journey to six sigma excellence: identifying critical success factors
Authors: Bagherian Anthony , Gerschon Mark , Kumar Sunil
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Numerous attempts at installing Six Sigma (SS) have faced challenges and fallen short of the desired success. Thus, it becomes vital to identify the critical factors and characteristics that play a pivotal role in achieving successful adoption. Research has highlighted that a considerable number of corporate Six Sigma initiatives, around 60%, fail primarily due to the improper incorporation of essential elements and flawed assumptions.

Design/methodology/approach

To validate the influence of CSFs on Six Sigma accomplishment, the study employed a research design combining exploratory and mixed-methods approaches. The analysis focused on 260 completed questionnaires, and statistical methods including SEM, EFA, and CFA were utilized for data analysis.

Findings

The study acknowledged four essential components of CSFs that are imperative for sustaining the success of Six Sigma (SS): (1) Competence of Belt System employees; (2) Project management skills; (3) Organizational economic capability; and (4) Leadership commitment and engagement. These factors were identified as significant contributors to the maintenance of Six Sigma’s success.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this research imply that institutions, practitioners, and researchers can utilize the four identified factors to foster the sustainable deployment of SS initiatives. By incorporating these factors, organizations can enhance the effectiveness and longevity of their Six Sigma practices.

Originality/value

The investigation’s originality lies in its contribution to assessing critical success factors in Six Sigma deployment within the European automobile industry, utilizing a mixed-methods research design supplemented by descriptive statistics.
Linguistic insights into customer satisfaction: an exploratory analysis of online reviews for gaming destination resorts in Las Vegas
Authors: Lee Harold Sang Kwon , Wang Jue , Moreno-Brito Yahaira Lisbeth , Shen Yiwen , Kim Hak-Seon
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the quality of user-generated content regarding readability, polarity, word length and diversity, as well as its implications for guest satisfaction in Las Vegas luxury gaming resorts.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined 12,940 textual customer reviews from six luxury hotels in luxury gaming destination resorts via Google Travel gathered from SCTM 3 (Smart Crawling and Text Mining). Moreover, the regression analysis identified the relationship between the variables in the textual customer reviews and the customer’s overall satisfaction.

Findings

A key finding of this study revealed that word length moderates the relationship between readability and overall customer satisfaction negatively, whereas it positively moderates the path from sentiment polarity and diversity to overall customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the relationship between technical aspects of online reviews. The adopted methodology allows us to precisely identify the essential attributes that influence customer satisfaction through textual reviews. Further, the study explores the quality of user-generated content, addressing aspects such as readability, polarity, diversity and word length, providing a unique perspective on how these specific elements directly impact customer satisfaction in this context of hotels in luxury in Las Vegas.
Blockchain applications: promotion of green innovation
Authors: Fang Xing , Jiang Yuansheng
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to address the gaps in current research by exploring how blockchain technology influences corporate green innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the potential of blockchain technology to stimulate the green innovation of companies using the difference-in-difference model with a panel data set of 1,803 Chinese listed companies from 2012 to 2019.

Findings

The application of blockchain significantly increases the number of green invention patents obtained by companies but has no significant impact on green utility model patents, that is, blockchain applications improve the quality rather than the quantity of green innovation. The role of blockchain in promoting green innovation is particularly pronounced in state-owned enterprises, non-heavily polluting industries and older companies. The use of blockchain technology helps reduce sales costs and boosts research and development investments, thereby encouraging green innovation. Additionally, a company’s internal control quality plays a moderating effect.

Originality/value

Firstly, previous research on blockchain has primarily centered on its relationship with supply chain management. This article empirically tests the impact of blockchain applications on the green innovation of companies using the DID method. Secondly, current studies mainly explore the influencing factors on green invention patents. This article examines the impact of blockchain applications on both green invention patents and green utility model patents and identifies distinct influencing effects. Finally, this article introduces the internal control mechanism of enterprises into the DID model and explores the potential impact of the quality of internal control on the relationship between blockchain and green innovation.
A study of customer satisfaction in using banking services through Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India
Authors: Shaikh Asmat Ara , Kumar Arya , Mishra Apoorva , Elahi Yasir Arafat
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This article examines customer satisfaction in using banking services through Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India. It addresses two questions: first, will customers perceive AI technology as a reliable and efficient alternative to traditional banking practices; second, will AI save customers’ time.

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative research method based on regression analysis models was adopted for hypothesis testing, with data collected from a survey of 189 banking customers from four banks, i.e., State Bank of India, Axis Bank, Punjab National Bank, and HDFC Bank in India.

Findings

AI improves banking customers’ experiences by making banking more accessible and enjoyable. Satisfied customers are quick to use cutting-edge AI tools. However, human service is more satisfying than digital service. AI has great potential but works alongside humans rather than replacing them. Even though AI’s novel architecture is helpful, human bank tellers are still needed in enhancing customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

AI’s integration in Indian banking, propelled by customer satisfaction, foresees a transformative landscape. This study uncovers AI’s role in saving time and improving customer satisfaction. While AI revolutionizes financial processes, its harmonious coexistence with human expertise emphasizes personalized and efficient services. This study provides insights for optimal AI utilization in shaping the future of banking.
Of flippers and wings: The locomotor environment as a driver of the evolution of forelimb morphological diversity in mammals
Authors: Rothier Priscila S. , Fabre Anne‐Claire , Benson Roger B. J. , Martinez Quentin , Fabre Pierre‐Henri , Hedrick Brandon P. , Herrel Anthony
Published: August 2024

The early diversification of tetrapods into terrestrial environments involved adaptations of their locomotor apparatus that allowed for weight support and propulsion on heterogeneous surfaces. Many lineages subsequently returned to the water, while others conquered the aerial environment, further diversifying under the physical constraints of locomoting through continuous fluid media. While many studies have explored the relationship between locomotion in continuous fluids and body mass, none have focused on how continuous fluid media have impacted the macroevolutionary patterns of limb shape diversity.

We investigated whether mammals that left terrestrial environments to use air and water as their main locomotor environment experienced constraints on the morphological evolution of their forelimb, assessing their degree of morphological disparity and convergence. We gathered a comprehensive sample of more than 800 species that cover the extant family‐level diversity of mammals, using linear measurements of the forelimb skeleton to determine its shape and size.

Among mammals, fully aquatic groups have the most disparate forelimb shapes, possibly due to the many different functional roles performed by flippers or the relaxation of constraints on within‐flipper bone proportions. Air‐based locomotion, in contrast, is linked to restricted forelimb shape diversity. Bats and gliding mammals exhibit similar morphological patterns that have resulted in partial phenotypic convergence, mostly involving the elongation of the proximal forelimb segments.

Thus, whereas aquatic locomotion drives forelimb shape diversification, aerial locomotion constrains forelimb diversity. These results demonstrate that locomotion in continuous fluid media can either facilitate or limit morphological diversity and more broadly that locomotor environments have fostered the morphological and functional evolution of mammalian forelimbs.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Caught in a Vicious Cycle: Where are we with Stop and Search?
Authors: Shiner Michael , Delsol Rebekah , Samota Neena
Published: August 2024

Police in England and Wales are invested with specific legal powers to detain a person—who is not under arrest—and search them or their vehicle for unlawful items. The exercise of this coercive power has long been a source of tension and mistrust, particularly among minoritised and other marginalised communities, and has been repeatedly implicated among the causes of serious public disorder. Although concerns about the misuse of stop and search have created a recurring cycle of crisis and reform—stretching back over more than four decades—the fundamental problem remains unchanged. How did this happen and what should now be done about it? These questions will be addressed by considering how the policy problem has been framed over time, reviewing evidence on the impact of stop and search and identifying policy challenges associated with regulating the powers, including lessons that can be learnt from previous attempts at reform.
How to Build Progressive Public Services with Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Margetts Helen , Dorobantu Cosmina , Bright Jonathan
Published: August 2024

The new government faces an urgent challenge: revitalising the UK's crumbling public services without major increases in public spending. While technological change holds promise, UK digital government initiatives have failed to reach their full potential over the past twenty‐five years. This article argues that the latest generation of ‘data‐intensive’ technologies, including data science and AI, can succeed where past efforts have faltered. We provide a roadmap for how to harness the power of recent technologies for a more productive and equitable public sector, and pinpoint the organisational changes necessary to develop progressive, technologically enhanced public services.
State of the Field: The New Administrative History
Authors: MCGOVERN JONATHAN , WRIGHT KIRSTY , HUDDLESTONE CONNOR
Published: August 2024

This article discusses the development of administrative history from ancient times to the present day. It explains the importance of Thomas Madox, T. F. Tout and other pioneers of administrative history in modern England and France. It also discusses the golden age of early modern administrative history (roughly 1950–1990), in which administrative methods thrived under the auspices of Sir Geoffrey Elton. The final section discusses a recent resurgence of administrative history, which some have referred to as the New Administrative History. It makes a case for the continuing importance of administrative history.
Properties, evaluation and application of naringin magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer based on synergistic imprinting strategy
Authors: Zhang Li‐Ping , Wang Miao , Li Tian , He Yi‐Fan , Li Shu‐Jing , Wang Lan , Mao Long‐Fei
Published: August 2024

A novel and facile surface molecularly imprinted polymer coated on magnetic chitosan (Fe3O4@CS@MIP) was fabricated for the selective recognition and enrichment of naringin (NRG). The Fe3O4@CS@MIP was prepared based on covalent–noncovalent synergistic imprinting strategies, utilizing 4‐vinyl phenyl boric acid as covalent functional monomer, deep eutectic solvent (choline chloride/methacrylic acid [ChCl/MAA]) as non‐covalent functional monomer and Fe3O4@CS nanoparticles as the magnetic support. The obtained Fe3O4@CS@MIP exhibited a uniform morphology, excellent crystallinity, outstanding magnetic properties, and high surface area. Owing to the double recognition abilities, the resultant polymer showed exceptional binding performance and rapid mass transfer in phosphate buffer (pH 7.0). The maximum binding amount of Fe3O4@CS@MIP was found to be 15.08 mg g−1, and the equilibrium adsorption could be achieved within 180 min. Moreover, they also exhibited stronger selectivity for NRG and satisfactory reusability, with only 11.0% loss after five adsorption‐desorption cycles. Additionally, the Fe3O4@CS@MIP, serving as an adsorbent, presented practical application potential in the separation and enrichment of NRG from pummelo peel, with extraction efficiency in the range of 79.53% to 84.63%. This work provided a new strategy for improving the performance of MIP and contributed an attractive option for the extraction of NRG in complex samples.
Stability of oil‐in‐water emulsion and immunomodulating activity in S180 tumor‐bearing mice
Authors: Zhang Yanying , Dong Jingning , Wang FeiFei , Li Qiqi , Fan Yan , Zhao Xue , Hao Li , Hou Hu
Published: August 2024

The stability and nutritional integrity of emulsions are susceptible to various factors including thermal treatment, solid–liquid ratio, and sterilization. In this study, the physicochemical stability and immunomodulatory activities of an oil‐in‐water emulsion containing immune peptides (TUFSE) were assessed through particle size, zeta potential, related cytokines, and so on. When the temperature was 70°C and a solid–liquid ratio of 1:4, the emulsion revealed stability at high‐pressure homogenization, with the small particle size. The loss rates of vitamins were 8.57%–62.26% in 6 months at 25°C. After treatment with cyclophosphamide (CTX), lymphocyte proliferation activity in TUFSE‐H group increased (p < 0.05), and immune globulin levels were notably elevated (p < 0.05) in TUFSE groups compared to model group. It confirms the parameters of the emulsion, suggesting its ability to be prepared with minimal vitamin loss while simultaneously improving the disease status in CTX‐treated tumor‐bearing mice. It shows potential as an immune‐enhancing supplement with significant potential value.

Practical Application

This study validated the parameters of the oil‐in‐water emulsion and showed that it can be stably prepared with minor vitamin loss while simultaneously improving the disease status in CTX‐treated tumor‐bearing mice. TUFSE‐H group exhibited a notable increase in lymphocytes proliferation activity, whereas serum cytokines and immune globulin levels were elevated compared to MC group, indicating its potential as an immune‐enhancing supplement with substantial value.
Natural glyceollin soybean extracts elicited with Aspergillus sojae reduce estrogen‐dependent breast cancer growth in orally fed mice
Authors: Ferriere François , Percevault Frederic , Plu Nicolas , Le Page Yann , Pham Tu‐Ha , Lecomte Sylvain , Costet Nathalie , Surel Claire , Efstathiou Theo , Pakdel Farzad
Published: August 2024

Previous studies have demonstrated antiestrogenic and antiproliferative effects of these molecules in breast cancer cells. Notably, we have reported that pure synthetic glyceollins I and II act through various pathways, including ERα, FOXM1, AhR, and HIF pathways to inhibit cell proliferation and migration. In this study, the potential antitumor activity of glyceollins enriched in crude soybean extracts, obtained by solid fermentation with Aspergillus sojae, was investigated in vivo on MCF‐7 breast cancer cells implanted in the chorioallantoic membrane of the chick egg and on ovariectomized nude mice. The first trial showed a substantial reduction in the migration of MCF‐7 cells treated with the natural extracts. However, the natural extracts significantly reduced the estrogen‐dependent growth of transplanted tumors in orally fed nude mice. Our results showed that natural soybean extracts slightly but significantly reduced estrogen‐dependent growth of the transplanted tumors in orally fed nude mice. These results were confirmed by immunohistochemistry of Ki‐67 and histone H3S10 phosphorylation (H3S10P), revealing lower expression of these proliferation markers in the transplanted tumors from mice fed with the fermented extracts. Additionally, compared to the control animals, we observed a lower expression of angiogenesis markers such as CD31 and CD34. Surprisingly, transcriptomic analysis of RNA from transplanted MCF‐7 cells revealed no differential gene expression. These results may suggest that orally consumed natural glyceollins exert biological effects throughout the body, acting indirectly to reduce tumor angiogenesis and consequently tumor volume. Overall, our results indicate that glyceollins, elicited components of the soy origin, hold potential therapeutic applications for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
Integration of transcriptional responses in cold contrasting sorghum genotypes under low temperatures
Authors: Vera Hernández Pedro Fernando , Flores Benavides Vladimir , Martínez Núñez Marcelino , Luna Suárez Silvia , Rosas Cárdenas Flor de Fátima
Published: August 2024

Sorghum is a crop that is susceptible to low temperatures. However, due to the extreme global temperatures, new genotypes have been bred to adapt better to cold climates. Therefore, to better understand the metabolic and molecular differences that may contribute to the improved cold tolerance of these genotypes, it is essential to investigate whether specific molecules play a key role in determining the degree of sorghum tolerance. Furthermore, identifying genes associated with cold tolerance may assist in the development of more robust and productive sorghum cultivars. Here, we analysed the changes in selected elements of the antioxidant metabolism, genes, and miRNAs in two sorghum varieties with different degrees of tolerance to cold stress at different times of exposure to cold stress. The high expression of SbCBF6 in response to cold treatment in early time in the tolerant variety suggests its involvement in the cold response, thereby facilitating a better adaptation of the plant to cold conditions. MiR398 and miR394 showed contrasting behaviour in both varieties in low temperatures, resulting in interesting miRNAs in the degree of sorghum tolerance. MiR319, a marker for the selection of cold‐tolerant cultivars, presents a decrease, suggesting that the better capacity to repress the expression of several members of TCP family of transcription factor genes might be involved in better tolerance to cold stress. This study shows the changes of molecules of interest in response to cold stress in sorghum, marking the difference between cold‐susceptible and cold‐tolerant sorghum plants, which can contribute to selecting tolerant genotypes, allowing new strategies to enhance crop productivity and food security, in regions where low temperatures significantly constrain crop growth and yield.
The connection between aging, cellular senescence and gut microbiome alterations: A comprehensive review
Authors: Jang Dong‐Hyun , Shin Ji‐Won , Shim Eunha , Ohtani Naoko , Jeon Ok Hee
Published: August 2024

The intricate interplay between cellular senescence and alterations in the gut microbiome emerges as a pivotal axis in the aging process, increasingly recognized for its contribution to systemic inflammation, physiological decline, and predisposition to age‐associated diseases. Cellular senescence, characterized by a cessation of cell division in response to various stressors, induces morphological and functional changes within tissues. The complexity and heterogeneity of senescent cells, alongside the secretion of senescence‐associated secretory phenotype, exacerbate the aging process through pro‐inflammatory pathways and influence the microenvironment and immune system. Concurrently, aging‐associated changes in gut microbiome diversity and composition contribute to dysbiosis, further exacerbating systemic inflammation and undermining the integrity of various bodily functions. This review encapsulates the burgeoning research on the reciprocal relationship between cellular senescence and gut dysbiosis, highlighting their collective impact on age‐related musculoskeletal diseases, including osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and osteoarthritis. It also explores the potential of modulating the gut microbiome and targeting cellular senescence as innovative strategies for healthy aging and mitigating the progression of aging‐related conditions. By exploring targeted interventions, including the development of senotherapeutic drugs and probiotic therapies, this review aims to shed light on novel therapeutic avenues. These strategies leverage the connection between cellular senescence and gut microbiome alterations to advance aging research and development of interventions aimed at extending health span and improving the quality of life in the older population.
Pectoral Nerve Block II for Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices
Authors: Zafar Shehzad , Khan Rubaiqa , Akbar Muhammad Ali , Zameer Rabia , Malik Jahanzeb , Akhtar Waheed , Mehmoodi Amin , Awais Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the pectoral nerves (PECS) II block in facilitating cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) insertion in a sample of 120 patients, with a focus on the percentage of cases completed without additional intraoperative local anesthesia.

Methods

PECS II blocks were performed on the left side using ultrasound guidance in all 120 patients. Feasibility was assessed by the proportion of cases completed without the need for extra intraoperative local anesthetic. Secondary outcomes included the amount of additional local anesthetic used, intraoperative opioid requirements, postoperative pain scores, time to first postoperative analgesia, analgesic consumption, patient satisfaction, and block‐related complications.

Results

Of the 120 patients, 78 (65%) required additional intraoperative local anesthetic, with a median volume of 8.2 mL (range 3–13 mL). Fifteen patients (12.5%) needed intraoperative opioid supplementation. Nine patients (7.5%) required postoperative tramadol for pain relief. In total, 98 patients (81.7%) reported high satisfaction levels with the procedure.

Conclusions

The PECS II block, when combined with supplementary local anesthetic, provided effective postoperative analgesia for at least 24 h in 120 patients undergoing CIED insertion. While it did not completely replace surgical anesthesia in most cases, the PECS II block significantly contributed to a smoother intraoperative experience for patients.
Controlled comparative tensile tests of backed versus non‐backed edges’ adhesion: Inferences into stone tool functional properties
Authors: Wilson Michael , Buchanan Briggs , Fisch Michael , Bebber Michelle R. , Eren Metin I. , Pargeter Justin
Published: August 2024

Backing is a procedure for retouching a stone tool edge to an angle of or near 90°. Archaeologists have recorded backed lithic specimens in the Pleistocene and Holocene around the world. One prominent hypothesis for the occurrence of backing is that it increases a stone tool's adhesion relative to what it would have otherwise been with unmodified, sharp edges. We conducted a highly controlled semi‐static tensile test in which we assessed lithic specimens that possessed both a backed and a non‐backed edge, opposing each other. We hafted each specimen's backed and non‐backed edges to wood, and the bi‐hafted stone implement was then pulled apart using an Universal Instron Materials Tester, allowing for a direct ‘head‐to‐head’ comparison of the two edge types’ adhesive properties. Our tensile test results suggested no significant difference between backed and non‐backed edges in terms of adhesion, which does not support the hypothesis that backing increases a lithic specimen's adhesion.
Plasma apixaban concentrations and thrombin generation assay parameters in response to dose reduction for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yeo Muhan , Lee So‐Ryoung , Choi Eue‐Keun , Choi JungMin , Lee Kyung‐Yeon , Ahn Hyo‐Jeong , Kwon Soonil , Park Hyoung‐Seob , Kim Hyun Kyung , Oh Seil , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: August 2024

Aims

To investigate plasma apixaban concentrations and thrombin generation assay (TGA) parameters across different apixaban doses in atrial fibrillation patients who had dose‐reduction criteria for apixaban.

Methods

This observational study included 374 patients (mean age 75.6 ± 7.7 years, 54.8% female) with dose‐reduction criteria for apixaban. The patients were divided into 3 groups: (i) on‐label standard dose (5 mg twice daily, n = 166); (ii) on‐label reduced dose (2.5 mg twice daily, n = 55); and (iii) off‐label underdose (2.5 mg twice daily, n = 153). Apixaban concentrations determined via the anti‐Xa assay and TGA parameters were compared at trough levels.

Results

The off‐label underdose group exhibited significantly lower apixaban trough concentrations than the on‐label reduced‐dose and standard‐dose groups (56.7 ± 42.9 vs. 83.7 ± 70.4 vs. 129.9 ± 101.8 ng/mL, all P < .001). Less than 70% of all patients fell within the expected range of apixaban concentrations. Proportions exceeding the upper limit of the expected range were significantly lower in the off‐label underdose group (1.3%) than in the on‐label reduced‐dose (9.1%, P = .005) and standard‐dose (12.7%, P < .001) groups. The TGA parameters showed the on‐label standard‐dose group displaying the lowest thrombogenic profiles. Lower creatinine clearance was the most significant predictor of higher apixaban concentrations.

Conclusion

Off‐label underdosed apixaban resulted in lower apixaban concentrations than both on‐label standard and reduced‐dose regimens. A considerable proportion of the patients exhibited apixaban concentrations outside the expected range, suggesting the potential benefits of plasma concentration monitoring. Further studies are needed to compare dosages directly, investigate the impact of plasma apixaban concentration monitoring and validate the current dose‐reduction criteria.