bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concomitant investigation of crustacean amphipods lipidome and metabolome during molting stage by Zeno SWATH Data-Independent Acquisition coupled with Electron Activated Dissociation and machine learning
Authors: Brunet Thomas Alexandre , Clément Yohann , Calabrese Valentina , Lemoine Jérôme , Geffard Olivier , Chaumot Arnaud , Degli-Esposti Davide , Salvador Arnaud , Ayciriex Sophie
Published: December 2023

Background

DIA (Data-Independent Acquisition) is a powerful technique in Liquid Chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in metabolomics and lipidomics, for comprehensive profiling of molecules in biological samples. It provides unbiased coverage, improved reproducibility, and quantitative accuracy compared to Data-Dependent Acquisition (DDA). Combined with the Zeno trap and Electron-Activated Dissociation (EAD), DIA enhances data quality and structural elucidation compared to conventional fragmentation under CID. These tools were applied to study the lipidome and metabolome of the freshwater amphipodGammarus fossarum, successfully discriminating stages and highlighting significant biological features. Despite being underused, DIA, along with the Zeno trap and EAD, holds great potential for advancing research in the omics field.

Results

DIA combined with the Zeno trap enhances detection reproducibility compared to conventional DDA, improving fragmentation spectra quality and putative identifications. LC coupled with Zeno-SWATH-DIA methods were used to study molecular changes in reproductive cycle of female gammarids. Multivariate data analysis including Principal Component Analysis and Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis successfully identified statistically significant features responsible for group segregation. EAD fragmentation helped to identify unknown features and to confirm their molecular structure using fragmentation spectra DB annotation or machine learning. EAD database matching accurately annotated five glycerophospholipids, including the position of double bonds on fatty acid chain moieties. SIRIUS database predicted structures of unknown features based on experimental fragmentation spectra to compensate for database incompleteness.

Significance

Reproducible detection of features and confident identification of putative compounds are pivotal stages within analytical pipelines. The DIA approach combined with Zeno pulsing and EAD synergistically enhances detection sensitivity while providing orthogonal fragmentation information, thereby facilitating a comprehensive and insightful exploration of pertinent biological molecules associated with the reproductive cycle of gammarids. The developed methodology holds great promises for identifying biomarkers of significance in the field of environmental assessment.

Highlights

Advancements in Data-Independent-Acquisition methods for lipidomics and metabolomics.

Zeno pulsing improves sensitivity in fragment detection and compound identification.

Comprehensive structure elucidation of lipids and metabolites using EAD fragmentation.
Spatial and Temporal Coordination of Force-generating Actin-based Modules Drives Membrane RemodelingIn Vivo
Authors: Heydecker Marco , Shitara Akiko , Chen Desu , Tran Duy , Masedunskas Andrius , Tora Muhibullah , Ebrahim Seham , Appaduray Mark A. , Galeano Niño Jorge Luis , Bhardwaj Abhishek , Narayan Kedar , Hardeman Edna C. , Gunning Peter W. , Weigert Roberto
Published: December 2023

Membrane remodeling drives a broad spectrum of cellular functions, and it is regulated through mechanical forces exerted on the membrane by cytoplasmic complexes. Here, we investigate how actin filaments dynamically tune their structure to control the active transfer of membranes between cellular compartments with distinct compositions and biophysical properties. Using intravital subcellular microscopy in live rodents we show that: a lattice composed of linear filaments stabilizes the granule membrane after fusion with the plasma membrane; and a network of branched filaments linked to the membranes by Ezrin, a regulator of membrane tension, initiates and drives to completion the integration step. Our results highlight how the actin cytoskeleton tunes its structure to adapt to dynamic changes in the biophysical properties of membranes.
Unsupervised learning reveals landscape of local structural motifs across protein classes
Authors: Derry Alexander , Altman Russ B.
Published: December 2023

Proteins are known to share similarities in local regions of 3D structure even across disparate global folds. Such correspondences can help to shed light on functional relationships between proteins and identify conserved local structural features that lead to function. Self-supervised deep learning on large protein structure datasets has produced high-fidelity representations of local structural microenvironments, enabling comparison of local structure and function at scale. In this work, we leverage these representations to cluster over 15 million environments in the Protein Data Bank, resulting in the creation of a “lexicon” of local 3D motifs which form the building blocks of all known protein structures. We characterize these motifs and demonstrate that they provide valuable information for modeling structure and function at all scales of protein analysis, from full protein chains to binding pockets to individual amino acids. We devise a new protein representation based solely on its constituent local motifs and show that this representation enables state-of-the-art performance on protein structure search and model quality assessment. We then show that this approach enables accurate prediction of drug off-target interactions by modeling the similarity between local binding pockets. Finally, we identify structural motifs associated with pathogenic variants in the human proteome by leveraging the predicted structures in the AlphaFold structure database.
Germ granule compartments coordinate specialized small RNA production
Authors: Chen Xiangyang , Wang Ke , Feng Xuezhu , Mufti Farees ud din , Xu Demin , Zhu Chengming , Huang Xinya , Zeng Chenming , Jin Qile , Huang Xiaona , Yan Yong-hong , Dong Meng-qiu , Shi Yunyu , Kennedy Scott , Guang Shouhong
Published: December 2023

Germ granules are biomolecular condensates present in most animal germ cells. One function of germ granules is to help maintain germ cell totipotency by organizing mRNA regulatory machinery, including small RNA-based gene regulatory pathways. TheC. elegansgerm granule is compartmentalized into multiple subcompartments whose biological functions are largely unknown. Here, we identify a new subcompartment of theC. elegansgerm granule, which we term the E compartment. The E compartment is nonrandomly positioned within the germ granule. We identified five proteins that localize to the E compartment, including the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) EGO-1, the Dicer-related helicase DRH-3, the Tudor domain-containing protein EKL-1, and two intrinsically disordered proteins, EGC-1 and ELLI-1. Localization of EGO-1 to the E granule enables synthesis of a specialized class of 22G RNAs, which derive exclusively from 5’regions of a subset of germline-expressed mRNAs. Defects in E compartment assembly elicit disordered production of endogenous siRNAs, which disturbs fertility and the RNAi response. Our results define a new subcompartment of theC. elegansgerm granule and suggest that one function of germ granule compartmentalization is to facilitate the localized production of specialized classes of small regulatory RNAs.
Spatially resolved single-cell analysis uncovers protein kinase Cδ-expressing microglia with anti-tumor activity in glioblastoma
Authors: Mirzaei Reza , McNeil Reid , D’Mello Charlotte , Wong Britney , Sarkar Susobhan , Visser Frank , Poon Candice , Bose Pinaki , Yong V Wee
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a brain tumor that poses a formidable challenge to treatment options available. The tumor microenvironment (TME) in GBM is highly complex, marked by immunosuppression and cellular heterogeneity. Understanding the cellular interactions and their spatial organization within the TME is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we integrated single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics in a GBM mouse model to unravel the spatial landscape of the brain TME. We identified a previously unrecognized microglia subtype expressing protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) associated with potent anti-tumor functions. The presence of PKCδ-expressing microglia was confirmed in resected human GBM specimens. Elevating tumoral PKCδ expression using niacin or adeno-associated virus in mice enhanced the phagocytosis of GBM cells by microglia in culture and increased the lifespan of mice with intracranial GBM. These findings were corroborated in analyses of the TCGA GBM datasets where low PKCδ samples showed negative pathway enrichment for apoptosis, phagocytosis, and immune signaling pathways, as well as lower levels of immune cell infiltration overall. Our study underscores the importance of integrating spatial context to unravel the TME, resulting in the identification of previously unrecognized subsets of microglia with anti-tumor functions. These findings provide valuable insights for advancing innovative immunotherapeutic strategies in GBM.
Age-related Muscle Fat Infiltration in Lung Screening Participants: Impact of Smoking Cessation
Authors: Xu Kaiwen , Li Thomas Z. , Terry James G. , Krishnan Aravind R. , Deppen Stephen A. , Huo Yuankai , Maldonado Fabien , Carr J. Jeffrey , Landman Bennett A. , Sandler Kim L.
Published: December 2023

Rationale

Skeletal muscle fat infiltration progresses with aging and is worsened among individuals with a history of cigarette smoking. Many negative impacts of smoking on muscles are likely reversible with smoking cessation.

Objectives

To determine if the progression of skeletal muscle fat infiltration with aging is altered by smoking cessation among lung cancer screening participants.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis based on the National Lung Screening Trial. Skeletal muscle attenuation in Hounsfield unit (HU) was derived from the baseline and follow-up low-dose CT scans using a previously validated artificial intelligence algorithm. Lower attenuation indicates greater fatty infiltration. Linear mixed-effects models were constructed to evaluate the associations between smoking status and the muscle attenuation trajectory.

Measurements and Main Results

Of 19,019 included participants (age: 61 years, 5 [SD]; 11,290 males), 8,971 (47.2%) were actively smoking cigarettes. Accounting for body mass index, pack-years, percent emphysema, and other confounding factors, actively smoking predicted a lower attenuation in both males (β0=-0.88 HU,P<.001) and females (β0=−0.69 HU,P<.001), and an accelerated muscle attenuation decline-rate in males (βl=−0.08 HU/y,P<.05). Age-stratified analyses indicated that the accelerated muscle attenuation decline associated with smoking likely occurred at younger age, especially in females.

Conclusions

Among lung cancer screening participants, active cigarette smoking was associated with greater skeletal muscle fat infiltration in both males and females, and accelerated muscle adipose accumulation rate in males. These findings support the important role of smoking cessation in preserving muscle health.
WITHDRAWN: Molecular Analysis of Non-structural Protein 1 (NSP1) in Children Infected with Rotavirus in Babylon Province, Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mohsen M. Mohammed , Al-khafaji Zaytoon A , Mohammed Layth Jasim
Published: December 2023

Withdrawal Statement

The authors have withdrawn their manuscript owing to [The research paper has been submitted to your esteemed journal, and actions have been taken regarding the paper without my knowledge (corresponding author), which is a violation of ethical standards in scientific research and reputable publishing. Kindly withdraw the research as this goes against the principles upheld by all contributors and those who do not support the unethical dissemination of work]. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as reference for the project. If you have any questions, please contact the corresponding author.”
LWU-Net approach for Efficient Gastro-Intestinal Tract Image Segmentation in Resource-Constrained Environments
Authors: Sai Marreddi Jayanth , Punn Narinder Singh
Published: December 2023

This paper introduces a Lightweight U-Net (LWU-Net) method for efficient gastro-intestinal tract segmentation in resource-constrained environments. The proposed model seeks to strike a balance between computational efficiency, memory efficiency, and segmentation accuracy. The model achieves competitive performance while reducing computational power needed with improvements including depth-wise separable convolutions and optimised network depth. The evaluation is conducted using data from a Kaggle competition-UW Madison gastrointestinal tract image segmentation, demonstrating the model’s effectiveness and generalizability. The findings demonstrate that the LWU-Net model has encouraging promise for precise medical diagnoses in resource-constrained settings, enabling effective image segmentation with slightly less than a fifth of as many trainable parameters as the U-Net model.
Multi-omics analysis of the molecular response to glucocorticoids - insights into shared genetic risk from psychiatric to medical disorders
Authors: Knauer-Arloth Janine , Hryhorzhevska Anastasiia , Binder Elisabeth B.
Published: December 2023

Background

Glucocorticoids play a crucial role as mediators of negative health effects associated with chronic stress, including increased risk for psychiatric disorders as well as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. This study investigates the impact of genetic variants and glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-activation on gene expression and DNA methylation in peripheral blood and the relationship of these variants with disease risk.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive molecular quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis, mapping GR-methylation (me)QTLs, GR-expression (e)QTLs, and GR-expression quantitative trait methylation (eQTM) in a cohort of 199 individuals, with DNA methylation and RNA expression data collected before and after GR-activation with dexamethasone. A multi-level network analysis was employed to map the complex relationships between the transcriptome, epigenome, and genetic variation.

Results

We identified 3,772 GR-meQTL CpGs corresponding to 114,134 local GR-meQTLs. eQTM and eQTL analyses revealed distinct genetic influences on RNA expression and DNA methylation. Multi-level network analysis uncovered GR-network trio QTLs, characterised by SNP-CpG-transcript combinations where meQTLs act as both eQTLs and eQTMs. These trios’ genes demonstrated enrichment in immune response and cell activation pathways and showed a significant overlap with transcripts altered by GR-activation in the mouse brain. GR-trio variants were enriched in GWAS for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases and traits, cytokines levels and BMI.

Conclusions

Genetic variants modulating the molecular effects of glucocorticoids are associated with psychiatric as well as medical diseases. Our findings support stress as a shared risk factor for transdiagnostic negative health outcomes and may lead to innovative interventions targeting shared underlying molecular mechanisms.
The remarkable ups and downs of birth rate in Switzerland 2020 to 2023 in a historical context
Authors: Le Vu Mathilde , Matthes Katarina L. , Staub Kaspar
Published: December 2023

We follow population trends in the monthly birth rate in Switzerland almost up to the present and place the latest developments in a historical context. Birth rates in 2022 were the lowest since the 1870s, and the trend is continuing in 2023. The latest decline had already begun 1-2 years before Covid-19. Previous pandemics (1890, 1918, 1920, 1957) had led to a temporary decline in births ∽9 months after the epidemic peaks. With Covid-19, this appears more complex. During and shortly after the first two waves and shutdowns in 2020, there were more conceptions and thus excess birth rates in 2021, in all available subgroups except Italian-speaking Switzerland, and somewhat more pronounced among >30-year-old mothers and second parities. Possible reasons for the mini-boom include: The increased time at home during the shutdowns has – planned or not – led to more conceptions which has brought pregnancies forward; the corona virus was still circulat-ing too infrequently in this 1st phase of the pandemic to have a negative impact on pregnancies or fertility; at the end of the waves and shutdowns, the perceived end of the pandemic threat could have led to an optimistic mood and thus also more conceptions. The subsequent decline from January 2022 was stronger than the in-crease before. The first part of the decline in 2022 is most likely due to a negative rebound from the advance-ment of births in 2020/2021 and deliberately postponed pregnancies due to the start of the vaccination pro-gram. The second part of the decline in 2022 is associated with conceptions during the large Omicron wave in the winter of 2021/2022, when many people in Switzerland fell ill. In addition, prices have been rising and real wages falling since 2021, the global political situation has become more unstable, and a general change in values regarding the willingness to have children may also be underway. Following these observations at population level (with limited depth of variables), more in-depth studies must now follow to better under-stand the dynamic ups and downs in the birth rate in Switzerland in recent years.
The Green Heart Project: Objectives, Design, and Methods
Authors: Bhatnagar Aruni , Keith Rachel , Yeager Ray , Riggs Daniel , Sears Clara , Bucknum Brent , Smith Ted , Fleischer Daniel , Chandler Chris , Walker Kandi L. , Hart Joy L. , Srivastava Sanjay , Turner Jay , Rai Shesh
Published: December 2023

The Green Heart Project is a community-based trial to evaluate the effects of increasing greenery on urban environment and community health. The study was initiated in 2018 in a low-to-middle-income mixed-race residential area of nearly 28,000 residents in Louisville, KY. The 4 square mile area was surveyed for land use, population characteristics, and greenness, and assigned to 8 paired clusters of demographically- and environmentally matched “target” (T) and adjacent “control” (C), clusters. Ambient levels of ultrafine particles, ozone, oxides of nitrogen, and environmental noise were measured in each cluster. Individual-level data were acquired during in-person exams of 735 participants in Wave 1 (2018-2019) and 545 participants in Wave 2 (2021) to evaluate sociodemographic and psychosocial factors. Blood, urine, nail, and hair samples were collected to evaluate standard cardiovascular risk factors, inflammation, stress, and pollutant exposure. Cardiovascular function was assessed by measuring arterial stiffness and flow-mediated dilation. After completion of Wave 2, more than 8,000 mature, mostly evergreen, trees and shrubs were planted in the T clusters in 2022. Post planting environmental and individual-level data were collected during Wave 3 (2022) from 561 participants. We plan to continue following changes in area characteristics and participant health to evaluate the long-term impact of increasing urban greenery.
“IGF2BP1 phosphorylation regulates ribonucleoprotein condensate formation by impairing low-affinity protein and RNA interactions”
Authors: Hornegger Harald , Muratovic Adnan , Anisimova Aleksandra , Burgeois Benjamin , Spinetti Elena , Covino Roberto , Madl Tobias , Karagöz G Elif
Published: December 2023

The insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein (IGF2BP1) is a conserved RNA-binding protein that regulates RNA stability, localization, and translation. IGF2BP1 is part of various ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensates regulating RNA outputs. However, the mechanism that regulates its assembly into condensates remains unknown. Here we found, using proteomics, that IGF2BP1 phosphorylation at S181 in a disordered linker is regulated in a stress-dependent manner. Phosphomimetic mutations in two disordered linkers, S181E and Y396E, modulated RNP condensate formation by IGF2BP1 without impacting its binding affinity for RNA. Intriguingly, the S181E mutant, which lies in linker 1, impaired IGF2BP1 condensate formationin vitroand in cells, whereas a Y396E mutant in the second linker increased condensate size and dynamics. Structural approaches showed that the first linker binds RNAs nonspecifically through its RGG/RG motif, an interaction weakened in the S181E mutant. Notably, linker 2 interacts with IGF2BP1’s folded domains and these interactions were partially impaired in the Y396E mutant. Our data reveal how phosphorylation modulates low affinity interaction networks in disordered linkers to regulate RNP condensate formation.
Maternal SMARCA5 is required for major ZGA in mouse embryos
Authors: Kubinyecz Oana Nicoleta , Drage Deborah , Santos Fatima , Krueger Christel , Okkenhaug Hanneke , Catalinas Celia Alda , Eckersley-Maslin Melanie , Taubenschmid-Stowers Jasmin , Reik Wolf
Published: December 2023

Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) in mice takes place in two waves, a minor wave in the one-cell embryo, and a major wave at the two-cell stage, both accompanied by global transcriptional and epigenetic reprogramming. However, the orchestration of these reprogramming events by maternal factors deposited in the oocyte is not yet entirely understood. We and others have recently shown that epigenetic modifiers such as SMARCA5 (the main ATPase in ISWI complexes) can initiate the ZGA transcriptional programmein vitro. So far, the role of SMARCA5 in ZGAin vivohas not been addressed, as constitutive knock-out mice lacking SMARCA5 are not viable. We have overcome this limitation by using the targeted protein-depletion system Trim Away to degrade SMARCA5 in early zygotes. We further harnessed the power of single cell multi-omics (scNMT-seq) and showed that in the absence of SMARCA5, major ZGA genes fail to be upregulated at the two-cell stage. This is explained by the lower accessibility and disrupted nucleosome positioning at their promoters and distal regulatory regions, compared to wild-type embryos. In contrast, we show that global chromatin accessibility at the two-cell stage is higher in SMARCA5 depleted embryos compared to control embryos, and this is accompanied by other global structural changes involving heterochromatic regions. Our results show that SMARCA5 has a global regulatory role at the two-cell stage, which includes the control of ZGA gene promoters and distal regulatory regions.
Hippocampal motor memory network reorganization depends on familiarity, not time
Authors: Sullens D. Gregory , Nguyen Phuoc , Gilley Kayla , Wiffler Madison B. , Sekeres Melanie J.
Published: December 2023

There is debate as to whether a time-dependent transformation of the episodic-like memory network is observed for nonepisodic tasks, including procedural motor memory. To determine how motor memory networks reorganize with time and practice, mice performed a motor task in a straight alley maze for 1 d (recent), 20 d of continuous training (continuous), or testing 20 d after the original training (remote), and then regional c-Fos expression was assessed. Elevated hippocampal c-Fos accompanied remote, but not continuous, motor task retrieval after 20 d, suggesting that the hippocampus remains engaged for nonhabitual remote motor memory retrieval.
Apollo 24/7 – A chink in Apollo Hospitals’ armour?
Authors: Sinha Abhishek , Ranajee Ranajee , Dutta Sanjib
Published: December 2023

Learning outcomes

This case study is designed to enable students to analyze the competitive landscape of a business impacted by technological disruption; evaluate the viability of an organic growth strategy using stakeholder analysis; evaluate the revenue and cost structure of Apollo 24/7 and decide on the future investment strategy; and analyze funding strategies of traditional hospitals versus pure digital players.

Case overview/synopsis

To extend its reach, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise (Apollo Hospitals), a leading private sector brick-and-mortar hospital chain in India known for using state-of-the-art technology, launched a unified virtual mobile platform Apollo 24/7 in February 2020, 45 days into the COVID-19 pandemic. The management believed that the digital platform had a unique ecosystem that could not be replicated. The analysts were optimistic about the impact of the decision on the future performance of Apollo Hospitals, as it was expected to lead to higher penetration and increased revenue. They also anticipated the unlocking of value, as and when the venture capitalist (VC) would invest in Apollo Hospitals. However, with increasing operating expenses on account of burgeoning technological and marketing expenses, things did not seem to go going as planned. Three years later, in February 2022 after the Q3 of financial year 2023 results. Suneeta Reddy, the company’s managing director found herself pondering whether the digital platform could boost Apollo Hospitals’ profitability in addition to expanding its reach and increasing affordability when the company missed the analyst estimates. In India, which was then the second most populous country, “incremental access” and “affordability” were what mattered to the patients, However, for the investors and analysts, it was quarter-on-quarter performance. The change in the macroeconomic environment stalled the company’s plan of raising money from VCs.

Furthermore, the financing dilemma also plagued Reddy. She knew there was a difference between financing for conventional businesses that for digital businesses. She also had to take decide between short-term profitability with which investors were obsessed versus long-term sustainability, which involved taking care of stakeholders’ interests.

Complexity academic level

This case study is basically aimed at postgraduate courses and executive management courses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject Code

CSS11: Strategy.
Continuous learning at work: the power of gamification
Authors: Torresan Stefano , Hinterhuber Andreas
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This literature review explores the potential of gamification in workplace learning beyond formal training. The study also highlights research gaps and opportunities for scholars to develop new theories and methodologies to enhance the understanding and application of gamification in workplace learning. It provides guidance for managers to use gamification to enhance learning and engagement. Ultimately, this review presents gamification as a promising field of study to increase individual and organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review of 6625 papers in the timeframe 1990–2020, with an update to include papers published in 2023.

Findings

This article examines the impact of gamification beyond formal learning and its potential to enhance employee productivity and well-being in the workplace. While there has been extensive research on gamification in formal learning contexts, little is known about its impact on informal learning. The study argues that the context of gamification is crucial to extending its effects and discusses the role, antecedents and consequences of game design elements in the workplace. The article also explores how the learning context relates to employee learning during work. Further research is necessary to investigate the impact of individual characteristics on work experience and performance.

Research limitations/implications

Intended contribution of the present study is the development of a theoretical framework exploring the benefits of gamification in a work context.

Practical implications

For practicing managers, this paper shows how to use gamification to increase workplace learning and employee engagement, not just in the context of formal learning—as some companies already do today—but also systematically, in the context of informal learning.

Originality/value

This study explores the impact of gamification on informal workplace learning and emphasizes the significance of the context of gamification in extending its effects to improve individual and organizational performance.
A review and analysis of impression management with photographs in sustainability reporting
Authors: Kanbaty Majid , Hellmann Andreas , Ang Lawrence , He Liyu
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Although photographs in sustainability reports are useful in conveying complex messages, they may also be used to manipulate the presentation of disclosures to exploit the limited cognitive processing capacity of humans. Therefore, this paper aims to examine the features of photographs aimed at capturing individuals’ attention through visual structures and evoking specific emotions through carefully chosen content. Furthermore, it examines whether such framing practice is explained by incentives for legitimizing behaviours and influencing reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a content analysis of photographs in 154 sustainability reports published by US companies. The authors captured the nature of photographs, the context in which they are being used, their themes and emotional content and layout and interaction features to understand how photographs are used for attribute framing to influence information processing. Furthermore, the authors statistically examine the framing practice between companies with different characteristics to identify any patterns for the impression management use of photographs in sustainability reports.

Findings

Photographs are often large with a horizontal orientation to capture attention and show content viewed at eye level and in either medium or close-up shots to engage viewers. Furthermore, photographs are emotionally loaded with different themes such as depictions of people, technology and nature. These themes are used to predominately evoke positive emotions of awe, nurturance, pride, amusement and attachment. This practice is often used by companies in environmentally sensitive areas that have close consumer relationships or are covered controversially in the media.

Originality/value

The authors reveal reporting practices and identify photographic features that attract attention and convey emotions that go beyond aesthetic qualities. This is important because emotions conveyed through photographs can be potentially misleading and influence judgements subconsciously.
Native American victimization and resistance: an examination of uranium mining in the Northwest and Northern Plains
Authors: Fegadel Averi R. , Lynch Michael J.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the genocidal impacts of uranium mining for Native Americans in the Northwest and Northern Plains, as well as their resistance to historical and contemporary acts of colonialism.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a case study approach, this study gathered qualitative data from various government, tribal and news sources to investigate the extent of ecological violence experienced by Native Americans specific to uranium mining processes on Spokane Indian Reservation, Pine Ridge Reservation and Wind River Reservation.

Findings

Native Americans in the Northwest and Northern Plains are victimized by the capitalism-genocide involved in uranium production. The consequences of the uranium industry boom in the 1950s–1980s has left Native Americans with degraded lands, polluted water sources and a legacy of adverse health effects, including some of the highest rates of cancer.

Social implications

The work discussed in this paper offers possibilities for collaborating with Native Americans to develop more sustainable energy options for the USA to make the necessary shift away from fossil fuels and nuclear energy.

Originality/value

Prior research has addressed the genocidal impacts of uranium mining for Native Americans in the Southwest USA and claimed these actions were direct consequences of toxic colonialism, capitalistic agendas and the treadmill of production (Fegadel, 2023). Most uranium was recovered from ore deposits within the Colorado Plateau, and most abandoned uranium mines (AUMs) are located within the same region. Tribes residing in the Northwest and Northern Plains have, however, experienced similar plights as those in the Southwest, but these issues have not been widely examined.
The entangled becoming in humanities doctoral education
Authors: Nuriler Hatice , Bengtsen Søren S.E.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Institutional framings of doctoral education mostly do not recognize the existential dimension of doctoral experience. This paper aims to offer an expanded understanding of experiences of doctoral researchers in the humanities with the concept of entangled becoming. This concept is developed through an existential lens by using Søren Kierkegaard’s philosophy – particularly his emphasis on emotions such as passion, anxiety and despair – and Denise Batchelor’s derived concept of vulnerable voices.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual framing is used for an empirical study based on ethnographic interviews with 10 doctoral researchers and supplementary observational notes from fieldwork at a university in Denmark. Two of the interview cases were selected to showcase variation across lived experiences and how doctoral researchers voice their entangled becoming.

Findings

Common experiences such as loneliness, insecurity(ies), vulnerability(ies) or passion for one’s research were identified across the interviews. On the other hand, this study shows that each doctoral journey in the humanities envelops a distinct web of entanglements, entailing distinct navigation, that makes each case a unique story and each doctoral voice a specific one.

Originality/value

Combining an existential philosophical perspective with a qualitative study, the paper offers an alternative perspective for doctoral education. It connects the humanities doctoral experience to the broader condition of human existence and the sophisticated uniqueness of each researcher’s becoming.
MicroRNA let‐7 targets BmCDK1 to regulate cell proliferation and endomitosis of silk gland in the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Wang Wei , Ji Linshengzhe , Jing Xinyuan , Zhao Ping , Xia Qingyou
Published: December 2023

MicroRNAs play critical roles in multiple developmental processes in insects. Our previous study showed that CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knock down of the microRNA let‐7 in silkworms increased the size of larvae and silk glands, thereby improving the silk production capacity. In this study, we elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying of let‐7 regulates growth. Identification of differentially expressed genes in response to let‐7 knock down revealed enrichment of pathways associated with cell proliferation and DNA replication. let‐7 dysregulation affected the cell cycle and proliferation of the Bombyx mori cell line BmN. Dual‐luciferase and target site mutation assays showed that BmCDK1 is a direct target gene of let‐7, with only 1 binding site on its 3′‐untranslated region. RNA interference of BmCDK1 inhibited cell proliferation, but this effect was counteracted by co‐transfection with let‐7 antagomir. Moreover, let‐7 knock down induced BmCDK1 expression and promoted cell proliferation in multiple tissues, and further induced endomitosis in the silk gland in vivo. Knock down of BmCDK1 resulted in abnormal formation of a new epidermis, and larval development was arrested at the 2nd or 3rd molt stage. Taken together, our results demonstrated that BmCDK1 is a novel target of let‐7 in cell fate determination, possessing potential for improving silk yield in silkworm.
Utilization of propionic acid bacteria in the biotransformation of soy (tofu) whey: Growth and metabolite changes
Authors: Tindjau Ricco , Chua Jian‐Yong , Liu Shao‐Quan
Published: December 2023

Soy whey, a by‐product from the tofu and soy protein isolate industry was evaluated as a substrate for a biofortified beverage using several propionic acid bacteria (PAB). PAB growth and changes in sugars, organic acids, amino acids and isoflavones were investigated. Vitamin B12 and short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) production were measured over time. Acidipropionibacterium acidipropionici (DSM 20272) showed the highest growth, compared to the other three PABs (Propionibacterium freudenreichii [DSM 20271 and DSM 4902], A. jensenii [DSM 20535]). Acidipropionibacterium (DSM 20272 and DSM 20535) showed the best propionic acid and acetic acid production, while P. freudenreichii produced the most succinic acid. Propionibacterium freudenreichii exhibited significant vitamin B12 production at 4.06 ± 0.28 µg/L for DSM 20271, followed by 2.58 ± 0.22 µg/L for DSM 4902. Notably, all PAB displayed strong β‐glycosidase activities evidenced by the conversion of isoflavone glycosides to isoflavone aglycones. The stark differences between Acidipropionibacterium spp. and Propionibacterium spp. indicate that the former PAB is specialized in SCFA production, while the latter PAB is better at vitamin B12 bioenrichment. This study demonstrated the possibility of employing PAB fermentation to improve SCFA and vitamin B12 content. This can open avenues for a beverage or functional ingredient development.
Current applications and future trends of artificial senses in fish freshness determination: A review
Authors: Madhubhashini M. Nerandi , Liyanage Chamara P. , Alahakoon Amali U. , Liyanage Rumesh Prasanga
Published: December 2023

Fish is a highly demanding food product and the determination of fish freshness is crucial as it is a fundamental factor in fish quality. Therefore, the fishery industry has been working on developing rapid fish freshness determination methods to monitor freshness levels. Artificial senses that mimic human senses are developed as convenient emerging technologies for fish freshness determination. Computer vision, electronic nose (e‐nose), and electronic tongue (e‐tongue) are the emerging artificial senses for fish freshness determination. This review article is uniquely worked upon to investigate the current applications of the artificial senses in fish freshness determination while describing the steps, and fundamental principles behind each artificial sense, comparing them with their advantages and limitations, and future trends related to fish freshness determination. Among the artificial senses, computer vision determines the freshness of fish in a completely nondestructive way while the e‐tongue determines the freshness of fish in a completely destructive way. There are developed e‐noses for fish freshness determination in both destructive and nondestructive ways. By analyzing visual cues such as color, computer vision systems can assess fish quality without the need for physical contact and it makes computer vision suitable for large‐scale industrial fish quality assessing applications. Overall, this review study reveals artificial senses as a proven replacement for traditional sensory panels in determining fish freshness precisely and conveniently. As future trends, there is a demand for developing applications for consumers to determine fish freshness based on artificial senses.
Utility of survivorship care plans: A mixed‐method study exploring general practitioners’ and cancer specialists’ views
Authors: Tan Sim Yee , Dhillon Haryana M. , Mak Channel , Liang Roger , Kerin‐Ayres Kim , Vuong Kylie , Malalasekera Ashanya , Vardy Janette L.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Survivorship care plans (SCP) are recommended as integral to survivorship care but are not routinely provided in many centers. We explore whether SCP from the Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre (SCSC) clinic was received by general practitioners (GP) and cancer specialists, and their views on SCP.

Methods

A mixed‐method study comprising a quality assurance audit, a questionnaire of GP practices and GP, and semi‐structured interviews of cancer specialists who referred patients to the SCSC clinic between 2019–2020. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data.

Results

The audit found 153/190 (80.5%) SCSC attendees had SCP uploaded to hospital medical records. The response rate from GP practices was 41%; among the 55 responding practices, 38 (69%) did not receive the SCP. The response rate from GP was 19%; among the 29 responding GP, 25 (86%) indicated the SCP was worthwhile, especially follow‐up plans and multidisciplinary team recommendations. Analysis of 14 cancer specialist interviews identified themes of 1) awareness of SCP; 2) access: SCP difficult to locate; 3) process: access and distribution require improvement; 4) systemic issues; 5) content and layout: more concise and better readability required; 6) value: mainly for GP and survivors; 7) use of SCP: limited; 8) recommendations: improve delivery process, enhance layout/content, more stakeholder input, more tailored information.

Conclusion

Although response rates from GP were low, those responding perceived SCP to be useful. Cancer specialists believed SCP were more valuable for GP and survivors. Process issues, especially SCP delivery, need to be improved.
Reoperation for post hepatectomy complications
Authors: Yu Sam , Liu Jianliang , Reid Jessica , Clarke Jessie , Edwards Suzanne , Maddern Guy
Published: December 2023

Background

Reoperation for post hepatectomy complications is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. We aim to describe the frequency, indications, and risk factors for reoperation after liver resection in a single centre.

Methods

Perioperative data of 464 patients, who underwent elective hepatectomy from 2001 to 2020 at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in South Australia, were retrospectively analysed. The frequency and indications for reoperation for post hepatectomy complications were recorded. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine variables associated with reoperation.

Results

A total of seven patients (1.5%) underwent reoperation post hepatectomy. The most common indications for reoperation were intra‐abdominal abscess, post‐operative haemorrhage, bile leak, and ischaemic bowel. Three out of the seven patients died. Patients were more likely to require reoperation if an additional major non‐hepatic procedure was performed.

Conclusion

Reoperation post hepatectomy is associated with morbidity and mortality and is more likely to occur in patients who have undergone a non‐hepatic procedure at the same time as the primary hepatic resection. Surgeons should ensure these patients are appropriately monitored and be selective about performing complex, multiple procedures. When possible, procedures should be staged.
Early clearance of hairy cell leukaemia in the bone marrow after first‐line treatment with cladribine predicts a favourable outcome
Authors: Ligia S. , Passucci M. , Assanto G. M. , D'Elia G. M. , Annechini G. , De Propris M. S. , Martelli M. , Del Giudice I. , Tiacci E. , Pulsoni A.
Published: December 2023

First‐line purine nucleoside analogues (PNAs) in hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) allow deep and long‐lasting responses. We retrospectively analysed 53 HCL patients treated frontline with cladribine and assessed for response at 2 and 6 months after treatment to evaluate the kinetics of response. The estimated median progression‐free survival was significantly different according to the degree of residual HCL infiltrate detected by immunohistochemistry at the bone marrow biopsy at 2 months (≤5% vs. >5%, 247 vs. 132 months, respectively, p = 0.033), but not at 6 months (p = 0.79). Our data suggest a favourable prognostic impact of early marrow HCL clearance in patients treated with cladribine.
Contributing causes of mortality and potentially avoidable deaths of people with intellectual or learning disability: A data‐linkage study
Authors: Iffland Michelle , Jorgensen Mikaela , Gillies Donna
Published: December 2023

Background

People with intellectual disabilities are at much higher risk of preventable deaths compared to the general community. However, studies identifying the cause of death in people with intellectual disability are generally based on one primary cause which is frequently attributed to the person's disability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the most common associated causes that may have contributed to the deaths of Australians with intellectual or learning disabilities, particularly those that may be avoidable.

Methods

Linked data that had previously been used to identify underlying causes of deaths were re‐analysed to determine other contributing causes of death in Australians with intellectual disabilities aged under 65 years who accessed disability services between July 2013 and June 2018.

Findings

Two thousand three hundred and thirty‐three deaths occurred among 180,790 people with intellectual disability. Contributing causes of death with the greatest disparities compared to the general community were lung diseases due to external agents (adjusted rate ratio (RR) 70.6 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 63.7–78.2), influenza and pneumonia (RR 18.3; 95% CI 16.4–20.4), and coronary heart disease (RR 3.3; 95% CI 2.8–3.8).

Conclusions

Analysing all contributing causes of death in people with intellectual disabilities can ensure that the higher rates of preventable deaths in people with intellectual disability are identified and addressed earlier in the disability and health sectors.
Improved secure PCA and LDA algorithms for intelligent computing in IoT‐to‐cloud setting
Authors: Jiasen Liu , An Wang Xu , Guofeng Li , Dan Yu , Jindan Zhang
Published: December 2023

The rapid development of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data analysis requires the simultaneous development of cloud computing technology. The application of IoT‐to‐cloud setting has been fully applied in various industry sectors, such as sensor‐cloud system which is composed of wireless sensor network and cloud computing technology. With the increasing amount and types of collected data, companies need to reduce the dimension of massive data in cloud servers for obtaining data analysis reports rapidly. Due to frequent cloud server data leaks, companies must adequately protect the privacy of some confidential data. To this end, we designed a dimension reduction method for ciphertext data in the sensor‐cloud system based on the CKKS encryption scheme, principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) dimension reduction algorithm. As data cannot be directly calculated using traditional PCA and LDA algorithm after encryption, we add some interactive operations and iterative calculations to replace some steps in traditional algorithms. Finally, we select the classification dataset IRIS which is commonly used in machine learning, and screen out the best encryption and calculation parameters, and efficiently realize the dimension reduction method of ciphertext data through a large number of experiments.