bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collective argumentation in elementary school: an experience of reasoning with data in an online open class
Authors: Estrella Soledad , Morales Sergio , Méndez-Reina Maritza , Vidal-Szabó Pedro , Mondaca-Saavedra Alejandra
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the statistical arguments produced by third-grade students (8–9 years old) and to identify the teaching support for collective argumentation in a lesson based on data comparison. A Lesson Study Group researched and planned the lesson around a problem from the official mathematics textbook.

Design/methodology/approach

From an interpretative perspective, we have analysed the arguments produced by students in a situation where they should give reasons to support or refute some claims based on data analysis. We looked at how some teaching support strategies promoted collective argumentation.

Findings

The strategies outlined in the lesson plan enabled the teacher to foster collective argumentation, encouraging students to provide reasoning based on data analysis. The lesson plan served as a means of improving the context presented in the textbook, guiding the development of well-structured teaching, and promoting high-quality teaching practices.

Research limitations/implications

One of the limitations, and future lines of research by the LSG is the deepening of teachers' understanding of the support required for CA in their classrooms so that they can distinguish the components of an argument and their role in and interpretation of the effectiveness of the arguments. In addition, the lesson plan did not consider in depth aspects such as the argumentative processes of the students, nor did it implement specific actions to promote argumentation. Addressing these limitations would be interesting and is necessary, considering that teachers still do not understand the key role of argumentation in learning and that the mastery of CA strategies is still a challenge for initial teacher training and for professional development programs for teachers.

Practical implications

For research purposes, evidence is presented of the types of teacher support in collective argumentation in a comparative task of two dot plots. For teaching purposes, these types of support can be pointed out within Lesson Study Groups and included in lesson plans, allowing discussions and base-data argumentation.

Social implications

The research has social implications in civic development, educational inclusion, and adaptation to technological and pandemic changes, with a focus on inferential statistical reasoning and the crucial role of the teacher in facilitating collective argumentation in the online school classroom.

Originality/value

The study enriches knowledge about the potential of Lesson Study and the possibilities of planned online lessons to develop professional learning on collective argumentation with data, as exemplary teaching practices that should be widely shared.
What role does HRM system strength play in Italian healthcare organizations? A post COVID-19 snapshot
Authors: Ceschel Federico , Bianchini Valentina , Homberg Fabian , Di Marcantonio Marzia
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Our study investigates the role of the Human Resources Management (HRM) system strength in supporting Italian healthcare managers during times of uncertainty and change. The perceived HRM system strength and its relationship with managers’ taking charge behaviors, perceived procedural constraints, and work engagement were examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Two surveys were conducted to gather empirical data from a pooled sample of 121 healthcare managers located in hospitals across Italy. We use regression analysis to test our hypotheses.

Findings

The data show that strong HRM systems facilitate managers taking charge behaviors and work engagement. Additionally, the findings highlight the mitigating effect of a strong HRM system on procedural constraints, such as red tape, in public healthcare organizations.

Practical implications

Emphasizing the positive outcomes associated with strong HRM systems, the findings suggest that public health organizations should make efforts to put in place robust HR practices to bolster engagement and proactive behaviors among healthcare managers in times of uncertainty and change.

Originality/value

Analyzing a unique data set, the study extends the understanding of HRM system strength in the public sector, specifically in post-pandemic healthcare organizations. Overall, the study contributes to the growing literature on HRM system strength by offering novel insights into its nomological network.
Stretching the social protection system beyond capacity: tensions between governance capacity and conceptualisations of elder care in nursing homes in Indonesia
Authors: Asmorowati Sulikah , Schubert Violeta , Supeno Eko
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Ageing is a global concern that poses many challenges for governments, particularly in relation to the pressing issue of how to provide adequate social protection for the increasing number of elderly. Alongside rapid social and demographic transformation, Indonesia is especially challenged by the increasing number of elderly in need of formal care that is stretching the capacities of government and necessitates improvements in the social protection system. This study examines governance capacity in nursing homes and offers recommendations for improving the social protection system.

Design/methodology/approach

The research presents a qualitative case study of government aged care centres in East Java and the experiences of residents and staff of three centres managed by the Provincial Social Service of East Java. The case study is based on ethnographic fieldwork, semi-structured interviews with 32 informants comprising directors, managers, staff and elderly residents of nursing homes.

Findings

The research finds that while social protection is in place, governance capacities at the provincial and local level are thinly stretched. The research highlights the tensions between existent governance capacities – in terms of mobility, decision-making, implementation and established local structures of governance and management – and the inability to meet the increasing demands for government elder care services and resources amidst broader societal transformations such as shifts in cultural framing of familial care of elderly. The findings point to the importance of understanding the dynamic relationship between governance capacity and the shifting terrains of elderly care due to societal transformation.

Originality/value

The research brings attention to the pivotal role that governance capacity plays in shaping the experiences and challenges of local government level elder care provision and the growing need for elder care in the face of an ageing population and shifts in kinship and family elder care arrangements. Elder care is not simply about addressing basic needs but also the quality and dignity of elderly and this is not easy to address where social protection systems are stretched beyond capacity. Recommendations are provided for enhancing government policy and expanding the scope for building cross-sectorial partnerships.
Examining the antecedents of entrepreneurial propensity: a study among university students in India
Authors: Khan Gohar Abass , Bashir Irfan , Alshiha Mohammed , Alshiha Ahmed Abdulaziz
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The primary objective of this paper is to determine the factors that affect the entrepreneurship propensity of students undergoing compulsory entrepreneurship education courses at various universities.

Design/methodology/approach

A research instrument was developed and implemented on a sample of 380 students who were offered compulsory entrepreneurship education courses at six major universities in the Jammu and Kashmir region of India. The study employed multiple cross-sectional designs with a simple random sampling technique to gather data. The collected data was subjected to descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling using SMART-PLS (Version 4).

Findings

The findings reveal that conceptualization, opportunity identification and implementation are the three antecedents of entrepreneurship propensity. The results indicate that the conceptualization factor is one of the most important predictors of entrepreneurship propensity, followed by opportunity identification, whereas implementation through education has the weakest influence on students' entrepreneurship propensity.

Practical implications

This research provides important insights to universities for designing and developing entrepreneurship courses that can foster the start-up culture. The results will be helpful for policymakers to devise various programs to boost entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

The study integrated the theories of planned behavior and human capital to evaluate the effectiveness of entrepreneurship courses at the university level. The three factors, namely, conceptual factors, actualization factors and implementation factors of entrepreneurship propensity are under-researched.
A contemporary systematic literature review of equestrian tourism: emerging advancements and future insights
Authors: Rezapouraghdam Hamed , Saydam Mehmet Bahri , Altun Ozlem , Roudi Samira , Nosrati Saeid
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Horse-based tourism stands at the intersection of cultural heritage, leisure activities, and eco-friendly travel, captivating enthusiasts and researchers alike with its diverse facets and impacts. This study examines the horse-based tourism literature to provide an overview of horse-based tourism publications.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a systematic literature review (SLR) method, pertinent journal articles published over the past 3 decades were retrieved and analyzed. Based on the review process, 44 papers were identified and analyzed by publication year, journal distribution, research method, and lead author. Using Leximancer software, a thematic analysis was undertaken to determine the major themes of horse-based tourism.

Findings

The findings revealed a rising trend of horse-based tourism articles and the appearance of an increasing number of studies in tourism-oriented journals. In addition, it was discovered that the majority of available studies are qualitative, whereas quantitative research is few and limited.

Research limitations/implications

Our research establishes a foundational resource for future studies and scholarly discourse on the multifaceted contributions of horse-based tourism.

Practical implications

This study can assist decision-makers in understanding the potential of horse-based tourism in the sustainable development of destinations. Moreover, it provides clear direction on implementing appropriate strategies to manage horse-based tourism.

Originality/value

This study distinguishes itself as the inaugural comprehensive literature review encompassing the breadth of horse-based tourism publications and research domains. By pioneering this endeavor, we not only contribute a unique perspective to the existing body of knowledge in the field but also emphasize the vital role of horse-based tourism in fostering economic and social sustainability for the countries involved.
Navigating organizational change: sequential vs simultaneous approaches to innovation management in modern enterprises
Authors: Cosa Marcello
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between innovation and strategic management in contemporary enterprises, emphasizing the navigation of organizational change for sustainable competitive advantage. This study addresses the challenge of adapting to dynamic environments and the critical role of leadership, organizational culture and collaboration in successful innovation management.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the typology research design and comparative analysis to explore the principles and strategies underlying different innovation approaches. This study examines their impact on organizational structures, resource allocation and the integration of technological advancements with managerial practices.

Findings

The authors developed a typology of two innovation management models. The sequential approach emphasizes phased and incremental innovation, while the simultaneous approach advocates for dynamic and comprehensive integration of innovation across the organization. Each model presents distinct advantages and challenges, underscoring the need for a tailored approach based on the enterprise’s context and objectives. Mature companies may benefit from the sequential approach to gradually evolve their innovation, while new and high-tech-intensive companies can leverage the simultaneous approach for dynamic and continuous innovation.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should examine local bodies and trade unions’ perception on the energy crisis’ impact toward rural entrepreneurship.

Practical implications

The findings are useful to Greek and European policymakers and rural micro-entrepreneurs as the experience of dealing with several previous crises can be a useful tool when dealing with current and future crises.

Originality/value

This study enhances understanding of the complex interplay between organizational innovation and strategy. The authors recommend further exploration of emerging technologies, cultural values, collaboration, sustainable practices and changing customer behavior to boost innovation capabilities and achieve success.
Why do we invest online? An empirical study of online crowdfunding in China
Authors: Chen Dongyu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The emergence of crowdfunding has provided a new way to solve the problem of financing difficulties for start-ups. Although crowdfunding has attracted great attention from the government and industry, investors are still hesitating to invest online. This paper aims to investigate the investment behavior of China’s debt-based internet crowdfunding market and construct a model to explain online investment decisions from the perspectives of trust and economic valence.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the survey method to verify the research model. The questionnaire was constructed based on the items in prior studies. The data were collected from users with project investment experience on a leading crowdfunding platform in China. A total of 474 valid responses were collected. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling was used in the data analysis.

Findings

This paper finds that initial trust and perceived benefits are the key factors influencing investment intentions; investors are more concerned about potential benefits than about risk; perceived benefits partially mediate the relationship between initial trust and investment intentions. Fundraisers’ reputation is also found to have a greater impact on investors’ initial trust than investors’ trust propensity.

Originality/value

The conclusions of this paper provide important insights into the design of internet crowdfunding platforms and the regulation of policymakers.
Deschooling teachers: a pathway to self-directed education
Authors: Justus-Smith Cammie
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of former teachers who transitioned into self-directed education (SDE), a K-12 educational paradigm where learning is authentically student-led.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on Ivan Illich’s Deschooling Society and qualitative thematic analysis of interviews with educators who have left conventional teaching, the research delves into understanding the modern concept of deschooling, critique of conventional schooling’s limitations and the implications of both for the future of educational practice.

Findings

The study highlights the themes that emerged from a cross-analysis of text and lived experience, emphasizing the need for childhood autonomy and agency in approaches to education. This study reveals a reimagined relationship and new profession for educators as they reemerge on the other side of the deschooling process. This study offers insights into the transformative potential of deschooling and SDE’s alignment with Illich’s vision for a lifelong learning society that transcends institutional constraints, thereby contributing to the discourse on educational reform and the empowerment of authentic learner-directed education.

Originality/value

Research on SDE as a field is quite limited, with no known prior empirical studies on SDE mentors or their process of deschooling. This work also provides theoretical novelty in using Deschooling Society as a lens for understanding the phenomenon of deschooling through lived experience as a critique of modern society and creating a real, re-envisioned future.
Polymer composites with advanced pigments: enhancing properties and applications
Authors: Randhawa Kawaljit Singh
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the synthesis, characteristics and utilization of polymer composites integrated with cutting-edge pigments.

Design/methodology/approach

The incorporation of advanced pigments introduces functionalities such as enhanced mechanical strength, thermal stability, ultraviolet resistance and color stability, thus extending the range of applications in diverse fields including automotive, aerospace, electronics and construction.

Findings

This review discusses the mechanisms underlying the property enhancements achieved through the incorporation of advanced pigments and highlights recent developments in the field.

Originality/value

Polymer composites incorporating advanced pigments have garnered significant attention in recent years because of their potential to enhance various material properties and broaden their applications. This paper explores the fabrication methods of polymer composites reinforced with organic/inorganic advanced pigments in brief along with their characteristics and applications.
Experimenting on the metaverse to foster innovation
Authors: Mele Cristina , Russo Spena Tiziana , Russo Stefano Paolo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the evolving concept of the metaverse and its implications for service innovation. It seeks to understand how integrating technologies such as extended reality, blockchain, artificial intelligence and non-fungible tokens enables companies to experiment and innovate.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a qualitative methodology, this investigation conducts an immersive netnography across more than 25 case studies spanning diverse industries such as gaming, retail, health care and education. The thematic analysis method is used to distill critical insights, providing a deep dive into the technological enablers, innovation processes and market adaptations within the metaverse.

Findings

The study addresses four main building blocks through which companies experiment with the metaverse to foster innovation: enabling virtual identities’ agency, developing non-fungible tokens, designing immersive paths and crafting phygital microworlds. They shape the metaverse by enacting actors, resources, processes and phygital ecosystems. Companies obtain learning outcomes from such experimentation and identify learning challenges.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the nascent body of knowledge on the metaverse and service innovation by providing a comprehensive framework that encapsulates the multifaceted ways companies experiment within the metaverse. It extends the understanding of digital-physical convergence in service research, offering theoretical and practical insights into the development of phygital service ecosystems.
The influence of homophily and social identity on eWOM in streaming consumption behaviour
Authors: Oquiñena Iker , Sánchez Joaquín , Monfort Abel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the influence of homophily and social identity in eWOM adoption and influence on music consumption in streaming platforms. The study also proposes a framework for eWOM influence on product consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire with a total of 524 valid responses. A partial least square methodology was used to approach the data analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate that both homophily and social identity have an influence on eWOM effect. Additionally, homophily shows influence on social identity being an important value to the total influence. It is also confirmed how eWOM has direct influence on music consumption.

Practical implications

Social information of consumers becomes more relevant than ever, as the results contribute to highlight its importance as a message adoption influencer and product consumption driver.

Originality/value

This study contributes to social communication theory by identifying homophily and social identity as valuable assets during eWOM generation. The research brings a new angle to social identity theory in the social network environment and influences eWOM adoption in music streaming consumption.
Functional diversity of neighbours mediates sap flow density and radial growth of focal trees, but in different ways between evergreen and deciduous broadleaved species
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Bai Yun‐Hao , Chen Xia , Guo Yanpei , Zhang Hong‐Tu , Zhang Xuejiao , Li Shan , Schmid Bernhard , Bruelheide Helge , Ma Keping , Tang Zhiyao
Published: July 2024

The functioning of a tree is shaped by the neighbouring species through the interspecific interaction and local environments. The functional trait composition of the neighbourhood could provide mechanistic insights into the effects of neighbours on the resource strategies of focal trees.

In this study, we deployed an automated high‐frequency measurement of the sap flow density (SFD) and the radial growth of 48 trees of 12 species at BEF‐China, a large‐scale forest biodiversity manipulation experiment, to investigate the consequences and underlying mechanisms of the functional trait composition of the neighbourhood on the sap flow and radial growth of focal trees.

We found a positive relationship between SFD and growth, reflecting the important supportive role of sap flow in tree growth. High functional diversity (FD) of the neighbourhood depressed SFD but promoted growth when considering all species, and thus promoted water‐use efficiency. Acquisitiveness of neighbouring trees positively affected growth, suggesting interspecific facilitation. Furthermore, neighbourhood FD benefits evergreen focal trees by promoting growth. However, in deciduous focal trees, neighbourhood FD reduced SFD but had no significant effects on growth.

Our findings suggest that considering the functional trait composition of neighbourhood communities will support effective afforestation and forest management.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Breeding records of 325 bird species from Peru over 21 years based on citizen science data
Authors: Díaz Alexis , Amanqui Edson , Saravia‐Llaja Keyko Geraldy , Mandujano Collantes Jhon Raúl , Jiménez Mirian , Zárate‐Gómez Ricardo , Condo Florangel
Published: July 2024

Breeding is a key component of the life history of birds. Documenting diverse aspects of their breeding biology provides valuable natural history data that can be used to address questions of evolutionary, ecological, or conservation significance. Despite its importance, this information is scarce for most Neotropical species. We compiled 1180 breeding records corresponding to 325 bird species for the period 2000–2021, through an in‐depth review of photo or video records from Peru, sourced from Macaulay Library and iNaturalist platforms. We determined the geographical distribution of the breeding records, described patterns of activity and nesting behavior (i.e., host plant preference and clutch size), and explored the timing of breeding. Our study represents one of the few efforts to provide nationwide data on breeding birds in the Neotropical region. We also offer broad taxonomic coverage for further studies interested in testing hypotheses on the variation of reproductive traits and timing at both local and regional scales. The complete data set for this abstract published in the Data Article section of the journal is available in electronic format in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP-2024-07.1/jalter-en.
A footloose entrepreneur model with productivity heterogeneity in two regions
Authors: Lu Po‐Hao , Tsai Jyh‐Fa
Published: July 2024

This article introduces the productivity heterogeneity of Melitz, M. J. (2003). Econometrica, 71(6), 1695–1725 into the footloose entrepreneur model of Forslid, R., and Ottaviano, G. I. (2003). Journal of Economic Geography, 3(3), 229–240 to explore the industrial spatial distribution between two regions. We suggest a negative relationship between the shape parameter of the Pareto distribution and the share of skilled workers in a region. It enhances the escape competition effect to avoid agglomeration when the share of skilled workers in a region increases to generate intensified competition. This effect allows the equal distribution outcome to be sustained for a larger range of transport costs.
Gambling Control in a Cost‐of‐Living Crisis: An Analysis of the White Paper High Stakes: Gambling Reform for the Digital Age (2023)
Authors: Bedford Kate
Published: July 2024

This article explains the broader stakes of contemporary British gambling reform debates, via an analysis of the White Paper High Stakes: Gambling Reform for the Digital Age (2023). I lay out the context to the White Paper, and I summarise its main proposals, focusing especially on efforts to reduce the harms caused by gambling. I also offer a critical analysis of one particularly significant and contentious proposed reform: mandated affordability checks for online gambling, when losses reach certain thresholds. I suggest that these checks reflect and deepen a shared regulatory, industry, and academic faith in online gambling technologies to resolve social responsibility problems, with wider implications for consumer surveillance and public health.
Study on the mechanism of targeted regulation of casein linear epitopes by three animal‐derived proteases under the optimal antigen inhibition rate conditions
Authors: Sun Qi , Mu Guangqing , Sun Peng , Ma Xutong , Zhao Qing , Wu Xiaomeng , Jiang Shujuan , Kong Fanhua
Published: July 2024

Casein (CN) is the major family of proteins in milk and can cause allergic reactions in some infants and children. This study investigated the regulatory mechanisms of three animal‐derived proteases on allergenic epitopes. The results showed that all three proteases effectively reduced the antigenicity of CN. After hydrolysis, the secondary structure of CN underwent a conformational transition from α‐helix to β‐turn. Based on peptidomics analysis, the allergenic epitopes of αs1‐CN at positions 91–110, 131–151, 166–180 and 188–201 were effectively cleaved by pepsin, and the allergenic epitopes of β‐CN at positions 60–69, 139–158 and 182–194 were effectively cleaved by pancreatic elastase.
Single droplet drying of dairy‐based systems at spray drying like temperature–time trajectories
Authors: Eijkelboom Nienke M. , Hooiveld Ellard , Kingma Johannes , Boom Remko M. , Wilms Patrick F.C. , Schutyser Maarten A.I.
Published: July 2024

Upon spray drying of dairy powders, the distribution of components within the droplets can become nonuniform. In this study, the influence of the composition on the drying behaviour, morphological development and surface composition were studied using single droplet drying. The addition of fat was found to result in an earlier locking point (1.1 instead of 1.8 s). The fat content did not influence the morphological development, but the protein and lactose ratios did influence whether the dried particle was smooth or wrinkled. Confocal Raman microscopy revealed that the initial fat, lactose and protein contents influenced the dry surface composition. For example, fat was found on the surface of emulsions that were either rich in fat or in whey protein.
Surface display of the COE antigen of porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus on Bacillus subtilis spores
Authors: Tian Yanhong , Wang Zhichao , Sun Ju , Gu Jiayun , Xu Xiaojuan , Cai Xuwang
Published: July 2024

Porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV) infects pigs of all ages by invading small intestine, causing acute diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration with high morbidity and mortality among newborn piglets. However, current PEDV vaccines are not effective to protect the pigs from field epidemic strains because of poor mucosal immune response and strain variation. Therefore, it is indispensable to develop a novel oral vaccine based on epidemic strains. Bacillus subtilis spores are attractive delivery vehicles for oral vaccination on account of the safety, high stability, and low cost. In this study, a chimeric gene CotC‐Linker‐COE (CLE), comprising of the B. subtilis spore coat gene cotC fused to the core neutralizing epitope CO‐26 K equivalent (COE) of the epidemic strain PEDV‐AJ1102 spike protein gene, was constructed. Then recombinant B. subtilis displaying the CLE on the spore surface was developed by homologous recombination. Mice were immunized by oral route with B. subtilis 168‐CLE, B. subtilis 168, or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) as control. Results showed that the IgG antibodies and cytokine (IL‐4, IFN‐γ) levels in the B. subtilis 168‐CLE group were significantly higher than the control groups. This study demonstrates that B. subtilis 168‐CLE can generate specific systemic immune and mucosal immune responses and is a potential vaccine candidate against PEDV infection.
PRPS2‐mediated modulation of the antitumor immune response in lung cancer through CCL2‐mediated tumor‐associated macrophages and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells
Authors: Liu Qing , Wu Ningzi , Hou Peifeng
Published: July 2024

Background

Phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate synthetase 2 (PRPS2) is known as an oncogene in many types of cancers, including lung cancer. However, its role in regulating tumor‐associated macrophages (TAM) and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) remains unclear. Our study aimed to explore the involvement of PRPS2 in TAM and MDSC regulation.

Methods

Stable Lewis lung cancer (LLC) cell lines were established using a lentivirus system. These LLC lines were then used to establish tumor model in mice. The levels of target genes were determined using qPCR, western blotting, and ELISA assays. The percentage of different immune cell types was analyzed using fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. The chemotaxis ability of TAM and MDSC was evaluated using an in vitro transwell chemotaxis assay.

Results

Notably, PRPS2 was found to regulate the chemotaxis of TAM and MDSC in tumor cells, as evidenced by the positive correlation of PRPS2 expression levels and abundance of TAM and MDSC populations. In addition, the expression of CCL2, mediated by PRPS2, was identified as a key factor in the chemotaxis of TAM and MDSC, as evidenced by a significant reduction in macrophages and MDSC numbers in the presence of the CCL2 antibody. Furthermore, in vivo experiments confirmed the involvement of PRPS2 in mediating CCL2 expression. PRPS2 was also found to regulate immune cell infiltration into tumors, whereas knockdown of CCL2 reversed the phenotype induced by PRPS2 overexpression. In tumor tissues from mice implanted with LLC‐PRPS2‐shCCL2 cells, a notable increase in CD4+ and CD8+ T cell percentages, alongside a marked decrease in TAMs, M‐MDSC, and PMN‐MDSC, was observed.

Conclusion

Taken together, PRPS2 plays a crucial role in modulating the antitumor immune response by reprogramming CCL2‐mediated TAM and MDSC.
Overexpression of mitochondrial fission or mitochondrial fusion genes enhances resilience and extends longevity
Authors: Traa Annika , Keil Allison , AlOkda Abdelrahman , Jacob‐Tomas Suleima , Tamez González Aura A. , Zhu Shusen , Rudich Zenith , Van Raamsdonk Jeremy M.
Published: July 2024

The dynamicity of the mitochondrial network is crucial for meeting the ever‐changing metabolic and energy needs of the cell. Mitochondrial fission promotes the degradation and distribution of mitochondria, while mitochondrial fusion maintains mitochondrial function through the complementation of mitochondrial components. Previously, we have reported that mitochondrial networks are tubular, interconnected, and well‐organized in young, healthy C. elegans, but become fragmented and disorganized with advancing age and in models of age‐associated neurodegenerative disease. In this work, we examine the effects of increasing mitochondrial fission or mitochondrial fusion capacity by ubiquitously overexpressing the mitochondrial fission gene drp‐1 or the mitochondrial fusion genes fzo‐1 and eat‐3, individually or in combination. We then measured mitochondrial function, mitochondrial network morphology, physiologic rates, stress resistance, and lifespan. Surprisingly, we found that overexpression of either mitochondrial fission or fusion machinery both resulted in an increase in mitochondrial fragmentation. Similarly, both mitochondrial fission and mitochondrial fusion overexpression strains have extended lifespans and increased stress resistance, which in the case of the mitochondrial fusion overexpression strains appears to be at least partially due to the upregulation of multiple pathways of cellular resilience in these strains. Overall, our work demonstrates that increasing the expression of mitochondrial fission or fusion genes extends lifespan and improves biological resilience without promoting the maintenance of a youthful mitochondrial network morphology. This work highlights the importance of the mitochondria for both resilience and longevity.
Unique urine and serum metabolomic signature in patients with excessive alcohol use: An exploratory study
Authors: Yang Zhihong , Gao Hui , Ma Jing , Liang Nathan A. , Liang Sophia P. , Huda Nazmul , Jiang Yanchao , Thoudam Themis , Tu Wanzhu , Su Jing , Hesler Maggie , Chandler Kristina , Liangpunsakul Suthat
Published: July 2024

Background

Excessive alcohol consumption has a multifaceted impact on the body's metabolic pathways and organ systems. The objectives of this study were to characterize global metabolomic changes and identify specific pathways that are altered in individuals with excessive alcohol use.

Methods

This exploratory study included 22 healthy controls with no known history of excessive alcohol use and 38 patients identified as using alcohol excessively. A Fibrosis‐4 score was used to determine the risk of underlying alcohol‐associated liver disease among the excessive drinkers.

Results

We found significantly altered urinary and serum metabolites among excessive drinkers, affecting various metabolic pathways including the metabolism of lipids, amino acids and peptides, cofactors and vitamins, carbohydrates, and nucleotides. Levels of two steroid hormones—5alpha‐androstan‐3beta,17beta‐diol disulfate and androstenediol (3beta,17beta) disulfate—were significantly higher in both the serum and urine samples of excessive drinkers. These elevated levels may be associated with a higher risk of liver fibrosis in individuals with excessive alcohol use.

Conclusion

Alcohol consumption leads to marked alterations in multiple metabolic pathways, highlighting the systemic impact of alcohol on various tissues and organ systems. These findings provide a foundation for future mechanistic studies aimed at elucidating alcohol‐induced changes in these metabolic pathways and their implications.
The rise of and demand for identity‐oriented media coverage
Authors: Hopkins Daniel J. , Lelkes Yphtach , Wolken Samuel
Published: July 2024

While some assert that social identities have become more salient in American media coverage, existing evidence is largely anecdotal. An increased emphasis on social identities has important political implications, including for polarization and representation. We first document the rising salience of different social identities using natural language processing tools to analyze all tweets from 19 media outlets (2008–2021) alongside 553,078 URLs shared on Facebook. We then examine one potential mechanism: Outlets may highlight meaningful social identities—race/ethnicity, gender, religion, or partisanship—to attract readers through various social and psychological pathways. We find that identity cues are associated with increases in some forms of engagement on social media. To probe causality, we analyze 3,828 randomized headline experiments conducted via Upworthy. Headlines mentioning racial/ethnic identities generated more engagement than headlines that did not, with suggestive evidence for other identities. Identity‐oriented media coverage is growing and rooted partly in audience demand.
A quasi‐experimental investigation of differences between face‐to‐face and videoconference interviews in an actual selection process
Authors: Langer Markus , Demetriou Andrew , Arvanitidis Alexandros , Vanderveken Stephane , Hiemstra Annemarie M. F.
Published: July 2024

Videoconference interviews are now integral to many selection processes. Theoretical arguments and empirical findings suggest that videoconference interviews may lead to different interview performance ratings in comparison to Face‐to‐Face (FTF) interviews. This has led to the question of the comparability of the psychometric properties of videoconferences and FTF interviews. However, evidence from actual selection processes stems from the beginning of the century, and recent findings predominantly stem from simulated interview contexts. We present insights from an actual selection process within a large European organization where we had the unique opportunity for a quasi‐experimental investigation of differences between videoconference and FTF interviews. Initially, the organization conducted FTF interviews, and after the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic, the interviews were conducted via videoconference. We examine mean differences in applicant performance ratings and evidence for response format‐related validity differences. There were only small, non‐significant mean differences and no evidence for response format related validity differences. We discuss possible causes for discrepancies in our findings compared to previous research. Furthermore, we conclude that downstream consequences of differences between FTF and videoconference interviews may be lower than previously expected. We end with a call for research on the interaction between technology‐design and selection‐tool‐design features.
Diagnosis and initial treatment of transplant‐eligible high‐risk myeloma patients: A British Society for Haematology/UK Myeloma Society Good Practice Paper
Authors: Kaiser Martin , Pratt Guy , Bygrave Ceri , Bowles Kristian , Stern Simon , Jenner Matthew ,   the BSH Committee
Published: July 2024

This Good Practice Paper provides recommendations for the diagnosis and initial management of transplant‐eligible high‐risk myeloma patients. It describes recent updates to the genetic diagnostics of high‐risk myeloma and provides recommendations for treatment on the basis of recent prospective clinical trial evidence.
Hepatocyte transformation is induced by laminin γ2 monomer
Authors: Funahashi Nobuaki , Okada Hikari , Kaneko Ryo , Nio Kouki , Yamashita Taro , Koshikawa Naohiko
Published: July 2024

Serum laminin‐γ2 monomer (Lm‐γ2m) is a potent predictive biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) onset in patients with hepatitis C infection who achieve a sustained virologic response with liver cirrhosis (LC) and for the onset of extrahepatic metastases in early‐stage HCC. Although Lm‐γ2m involvement in late‐stage cancer progression has been well investigated, its precise roles in HCC onset remain to be systematically investigated. Therefore, we analyzed an HCC model, human hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, and surgically resected liver tissues from patients with HCC to understand the roles of Lm‐γ2m in HCC onset. Ck‐19‐ and EpCAM‐positive hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) in the liver of pdgf‐c transgenic HCC mouse model with ductular reaction showed ectopic expression of Lm‐γ2m. Forced expression of Lm‐γ2m in hepatocytes adjacent to HPCs resulted in enhanced tumorigenicity, cell proliferation, and migration in immortalized hepatocytes, but not in cholangiocytes in vitro. Further, pharmacological inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and c‐Jun activator JNK suppressed Lm‐γ2m‐induced hepatocyte transformation, suggesting the involvement of EGFR/c‐Jun signaling in the transformation, leading to HCC development. Finally, immunohistochemical staining of HCC tissues revealed a high level of Lm‐γ2 expression in the HPCs of the liver with ductular reaction in normal liver adjacent to HCC tissues. Overall, HPC‐derived Lm‐γ2m in normal liver with ductular reaction acts as a paracrine growth factor on surrounding hepatocytes and promotes their cellular transformation through the EGFR/c‐Jun signaling pathway. Furthermore, this is the first report on Lm‐γ2m expression detected in the normal liver with ductular reaction, a human precancerous lesion of HCC.
Long‐term retention and survival of cemented implant‐supported zirconia and metal‐ceramic single crowns: A retrospective study
Authors: Rammelsberg P. , Klotz A. L.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of different cement types on the incidence of failure and loss of retention of zirconia and metal‐ceramic single crowns (SCs) cemented on implant abutments.

Methods

We placed 567 implant‐supported SCs in 358 patients and retrospectively evaluated long‐term retention for up to 12.8 years. The frameworks were made from metal alloy (n = 307) or zirconia (n = 260). SCs were cemented with permanent (glass‐ionomer cement; n = 376) or semipermanent cement (zinc oxide non‐eugenol cement; n = 191) on standardized (n = 446) or customized (n = 121) abutments. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to calculate the incidence of decementation. Differences between survival curves were assessed with log‐rank tests. Cox‐regression analysis was performed to evaluate multiple risk factors.

Results

Of the 567 SCs, 22 failed because of technical complications and four because of implant loss. Loss of retention was observed in 50 SCs. Analysis revealed a 7% probability of loss of retention for zirconia and 16% for metal‐ceramic SCs after 10 years (p = .011). After 5 years, loss of retention was higher for standardized abutments than for customized abutments (p = .014). The probability of loss of retention was higher with semipermanent than with permanent cement (p = .001). Cox‐regression analysis revealed semipermanent cement as the only significant risk factor for SC failure (p = .026).

Conclusions

In contrast to semipermanent cement, permanent cement provides acceptable long‐term retention of cemented implant‐supported SCs. These possible positive effects of customized abutments have to be controlled with larger sample sizes.
Living Donor Decision‐Making and the Complex Interplay of Finances and Other Motivators, Barriers, and Facilitators
Authors: Smith Abigail R. , Mandell Rebecca J. , Goodrich Nathan P. , Helmuth Margaret E. , Wiseman Jonathan B. , Gifford Kimberly A. , Fava Melissa A. , Ojo Akinlolu O. , Merion Robert M. , Mathur Amit K.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The decision to become a living donor requires consideration of a complex, interactive array of factors that could be targeted for clinical, policy, and educational interventions. Our objective was to assess how financial barriers interact with motivators, other barriers, and facilitators during this process.

Methods

Data were obtained from a public survey assessing motivators, barriers, and facilitators of living donation. We used multivariable logistic regression and consensus k‐means clustering to assess interactions between financial concerns and other considerations in the decision‐making process.

Results

Among 1592 respondents, the average age was 43; 74% were female and 14% and 6% identified as Hispanic and Black, respectively. Among employed respondents (72%), 40% indicated that they would not be able to donate without lost wage reimbursement. Stronger agreement with worries about expenses and dependent care challenges was associated with not being able to donate without lost wage reimbursement (OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.0–1.3; OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1–1.3, respectively). Four respondent clusters were identified. Cluster 1 had strong motivators and facilitators with minimal barriers. Cluster 2 had barriers related to health concerns, nervousness, and dependent care. Clusters 3 and 4 had financial barriers. Cluster 3 also had anxiety related to surgery and dependent care.

Conclusions

Financial barriers interact primarily with health and dependent care concerns when considering living organ donation. Targeted interventions to reduce financial barriers and improve provider communication regarding donation‐related risks are needed.
Theology as embodied: How tangible theology offers a new invitation to embodied people
Authors: Fisher Miriam Jessie
Published: July 2024

Far from being a purely cerebral activity, meaningful theological work seeks the transformation of people; intellectual assent is necessary, but humans are embodied, and theology can be multi‐modal in its action and delivery. This essay draws on the traditions of visual and sensory theological practices to make an argument for theology as a rigorous process enacted in embodied—mind, hand, and heart—ways. The interwoven relationship between orthodoxy and orthopraxy is too often tenuous, practitioners on one side and thinkers on the other. In exploring lives of biblical characters, specifically women, and expressing these across modalities of spoken word, stitch, and poetry, the writer makes a case for the essential embodiment of a sensuous theological expression—the kind of expression that one frequently experiences in sacrament and frequently ignores in formal theological discourse. In drawing from her own research practices the writer presents a case for the importance of personal theological work moving from thinking as the sole location, arguing that embodiment is always the outcome of good theological commitment. This essay builds on a foundation of theologians who make a case for the arts and for the sensory in pointing toward the Divine, and it unapologetically draws on textile practice as “women's work” and a location of shared human experience. The essay also explores responses to theology in physical stitched form and poetry. It includes responses which take theological interactions beyond consumption into production; it considers the value of embodied, holistic theological work as a potential gift to the community.