bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted isolation of bacteria with potential to competitively excludeStaphylococcus aureusin the upper respiratory tract of pigs
Authors: Vlasblom Abel A. , Patel Shriram , Lawlor Peadar G. , Claesson Marcus J. , Crespo-Piazuelo Daniel , Eckenberger Julia , Huseyin Chloe E. , Elend Christian , Wagenaar Jaap A. , Zomer Aldert L. , Duim Birgitta
Published: June 2024

Considering global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) prevalence, alternative or complementary strategies to antimicrobial use, are of interest. Livestock-associated methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(LA-MRSA) is of particular interest as despite significant AMU reduction, LA-MRSA prevalence in pig husbandry has not decreased. We performed targeted isolation of bacterial species with potential antagonism against LA-MRSA in pig farms. Duplicate piglet nasal swabs from three European countries (Germany, Ireland and The Netherlands) were taken longitudinally from birth up to 10 weeks, one for amplicon sequencing and qPCR, and the other was cryopreserved for culturing. We identified potential probiotic species by anticorrelation analysis of bacterial abundance from amplicon sequencing data with quantitativeS. aureusestimates from qPCR data from the samples. A literature-screen was performed on the species identified, to determine their probiotic potential. Following this, 1302 isolates were grown from selected cryopreserved swabs and identified using MALDI-TOF and additional 16S rRNA gene sequencing to isolate the anticorrelating species. Ninety-five isolates of interest were screened for absence of tetracycline resistance and hemolytic activity and whole genome sequencing was conducted to verify their taxonomy and to assess their AMR and virulence gene profile. Additional phenotypic antimicrobial resistance testing selected three differentLactococcus lactisstrains. During anin vitrochallenge using spent medium, all three strains demonstrated inhibition against twoS. aureusstrains. TheseL. lactisstrains may have the ability to be used safely to reduce LA-MRSA carriage in the nasal passages of pigs but furtherin vivotesting is necessary to confirm this potential.

Importance

An approach to tackle antimicrobial resistance in livestock is to use competitive exclusion agents. We employed a sequencing guided isolation approach to identify bacterial species within silicoantagonism to livestock-associatedStaphylococcus aureus(LA-MRSA) in the nasal microbiome of piglets. Based on this, threeLactococcus lactisisolates were found to be suitable for further probiotic testing. This strategy can be used to effectively identify, isolate, and screen bacteria that live in antagonism with opportunistic pathogens such as LA-MRSA in a complex microbiome.
Enabling non-viral DNA delivery using lipid nanoparticles co-loaded with endogenous anti-inflammatory lipids
Authors: Patel Manthan N. , Tiwari Sachchidanand , Wang Yufei , O’Neill Sarah , Wu Jichuan , Omo-Lamai Serena , Espy Carolann , Chase Liam S. , Majumdar Aparajeeta , Hoffman Evan , Shah Anit , Sárközy András , Katzen Jeremy , Pardi Norbert , Brenner Jacob S.
Published: June 2024

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have transformed genetic medicine, recently shown by their use in COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. While loading LNPs with mRNA has many uses, loading DNA would provide additional advantages such as long-term expression and availability of promoter sequences. However, here we show that plasmid DNA (pDNA) delivery via LNPs (pDNA-LNPs) induces acute inflammation in naïve mice which we find is primarily driven by the cGAS-STING pathway. Inspired by DNA viruses that inhibit this pathway for replication, we co-loaded endogenous lipids that inhibit STING into pDNA-LNPs. Specifically, loading nitro-oleic acid (NOA) into pDNA-LNPs (NOA-pDNA-LNPs) ameliorates serious inflammatory responsesin vivoenabling prolonged transgene expression (at least 1 month). Additionally, we demonstrate the ability to iteratively optimize NOA-pDNA-LNPs’ expression by performing a small LNP formulation screen, driving up expression 50-foldin vitro. Thus, NOA-pDNA-LNPs, and pDNA-LNPs co-loaded with other bioactive molecules, will provide a major new tool in the genetic medicine toolbox, leveraging the power of DNA’s long-term and promoter-controlled expression.
Direct modulation of CRH nerve terminal function by noradrenaline and corticosterone
Authors: Power Emmet M. , Ganeshan Dharshini , Paul Jamieson , Igarashi Hiroyuki , Inoue Wataru , Iremonger Karl J.
Published: June 2024

Nerve terminals are the final point of regulation before neurosecretion. As such, neuromodulators acting on nerve terminals can exert significant influence on neural signalling. Hypothalamic corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons send axonal projections to the median eminence where CRH is secreted to stimulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Noradrenaline and corticosterone are two of the most important neuromodulators of HPA axis function; noradrenaline excites CRH neurons and corticosterone inhibits CRH neurons by negative feedback. Here, we used GCaMP6f Ca2+imaging and measurement of nerve terminal CRH secretion using sniffer cells to determine whether these neuromodulators act directly on CRH nerve terminals. Contrary to expectations, noradrenaline inhibited action potential-dependent Ca2+elevations in CRH nerve terminals and suppressed evoked CRH secretion. This inhibitory effect was blocked by α2-adrenoreceptor antagonism. Corticosterone also suppressed evoked CRH peptide secretion from nerve terminals, independent of action potential-dependent Ca2+levels. This inhibition was prevented by the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, RU486, and indicates that CRH nerve terminals may be a site of fast glucocorticoid negative feedback. Together these findings establish median eminence nerve terminals as a key site for regulation of the HPA axis.

Significance

Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons control the stress axis. Noradrenaline and corticosterone are two signalling molecules that control CRH neuron cell body excitability. However, their effect on CRH nerve terminal function is unknown. To examine this, we performed live Ca2+imaging and measured CRH secretion. We found that noradrenaline suppressed nerve terminal Ca2+levels and inhibited nerve terminal CRH secretion. Corticosterone had no effect on nerve terminal Ca2+, but inhibited nerve terminal CRH secretion. This suggests that CRH nerve terminals may be a site of fast corticosteroid negative feedback. Together, these data demonstrate that CRH nerve terminals are a critical point of regulation in the control of the stress axis.
Impaired Suppression of Plasma Lipid Extraction and its Partitioning Away from Muscle by Insulin in Humans with Obesity
Authors: Katsanos Christos S. , Tran Lee , Hoffman Nyssa , Roust Lori R. , De Filippis Eleanna , Mandarino Lawrence J. , Johnsson Kailin , Belohlavek Marek , Buras Matthew R.
Published: June 2024

Context

Humans with obesity and insulin resistance exhibit lipid accumulation in skeletal muscle, but the underlying biological mechanisms responsible for the accumulation of lipid in the muscle of these individuals remain unknown.

Objective

We investigated how plasma insulin modulates the extraction of circulating triglycerides (TGs) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) from ingested and endogenous origin in the muscle of lean, insulin-sensitive humans (Lean-IS) and contrasted these responses to those in humans with obesity and insulin resistance (Obese-IR).

Methods

The studies were performed in a postprandial state associated with steady-state plasma TG concentrations. The arterio-venous blood sampling technique was employed to determine the extraction of circulating lipids across the forearm muscle before and after insulin infusion. We distinguished kinetics of TGs and NEFAs from ingested origin from those from endogenous origin across muscle by incorporating stable isotope-labeled triolein in the ingested fat.

Results

Insulin infusion rapidly suppressed the extraction of plasma TGs from endogenous, but not ingested, origin in the muscle of the Lean-IS, but this response was absent in the muscle of the Obese-IR. Furthermore, in the muscle of the Lean-IS, insulin infusion decreased the extraction of circulating NEFAs from both ingested and endogenous origin; however, this response was absent for NEFAs from ingested origin in the muscle of the Obese-IR subjects.

Conclusions

Partitioning of circulating lipids away from the skeletal muscle when plasma insulin increases during the postprandial period is impaired in humans with obesity and insulin resistance.
A General Framework for Characterizing Optimal Communication in Brain Networks
Authors: Fakhar Kayson , Hadaeghi Fatemeh , Seguin Caio , Dixit Shrey , Messé Arnaud , Zamora-López Gorka , Misic Bratislav , Hilgetag Claus C.
Published: June 2024

Communication in brain networks is the foundation of cognitive function and behavior. A multitude of evolutionary pressures, including the minimization of metabolic costs while maximizing communication efficiency, contribute to shaping the structure and dynamics of these networks. However, how communication efficiency is characterized depends on the assumed model of communication dynamics. Traditional models include shortest path signaling, random walker navigation, broadcasting, and diffusive processes. Yet, a general and model-agnostic framework for characterizing optimal neural communication remains to be established.

Our study addresses this challenge by assigning communication efficiency through game theory, based on a combination of structural data from human cortical networks with computational models of brain dynamics. We quantified the exact influence exerted by each brain node over every other node using an exhaustive multi-site virtual lesioning scheme, creating optimal influence maps for various models of brain dynamics. These descriptions show how communication patterns unfold in the given brain network if regions maximize their influence over one another. By comparing these influence maps with a large variety of brain communication models, we found that optimal communication most closely resembles a broadcasting model in which regions leverage multiple parallel channels for information dissemination. Moreover, we show that the most influential regions within the cortex are formed by its rich-club. These regions exploit their topological vantage point by broadcasting across numerous pathways, thereby significantly enhancing their effective reach even when the anatomical connections are weak.

Our work provides a rigorous and versatile framework for characterizing optimal communication across brain networks and reveals the most influential brain regions and the topological features underlying their optimal communication.
Drosophila melanogasterSet8 and L(3)mbt function in gene expression independently of histone H4 lysine 20 methylation
Authors: Crain Aaron T. , Butler Megan B. , Hill Christina A. , Huynh Mai , McGinty Robert K. , Duronio Robert J.
Published: June 2024

Monomethylation of lysine 20 of histone H4 (H4K20me1) is catalyzed by Set8 and thought to play important roles in many aspects of genome function that are mediated by H4K20me binding proteins. We interrogated this model in a developing animal by comparing in parallel the transcriptomes ofSet8null,H4K20R/A, andl(3)mbtmutantDrosophila melanogaster. We found that the gene expression profiles ofH4K20AandH4K20Rlarvae are markedly different thanSet8nulllarvae despite similar reductions in H4K20me1.Set8nullmutant cells have a severely disrupted transcriptome and fail to proliferate in vivo, but these phenotypes are not recapitulated by mutation ofH4K20, indicating that the developmental defects ofSet8nullanimals are largely due to H4K20me1-independent effects on gene expression. Furthermore, the H4K20me1 binding protein L(3)mbt is recruited to the transcription start sites of most genes independently of H4K20me even though genes bound by L(3)mbt have high levels of H4K20me1. Moreover, both Set8 and L(3)mbt bind to purified H4K20R nucleosomes in vitro. We conclude that gene expression changes inSet8nullandH4K20mutants cannot be explained by loss of H4K20me1 or L(3)mbt binding to chromatin and therefore that H4K20me1 does not play a large role in gene expression.
Using the Proximity Ligation Assay to Visualize Colocalization of Proteins at theDrosophilaLarval Neuromuscular Junction
Authors: Ashley James , Carrillo Robert A.
Published: June 2024

In the nearly 50 years since the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) was first established as a model synapse, its molecular composition has been extensively characterized. Early work relied on fluorescent signals to determine whether proteins localized to the pre- and postsynaptic regions. As more synaptic molecules were identified, determining the localization of these proteins relative to each other became important. Conventional microscopy lacks the resolving power to assess whether two proteins are within an appropriate distance to bind directly or be part of a larger complex. Super-resolution and immunoelectron microscopies can improve spatial resolution, but these techniques can be difficult to execute and troubleshoot, and access to these instruments is limiting. However, another approach, proximity labeling, overcomes many of these limitations by using a DNA secondary label that can only be amplified if the two proteins of interest are within 40 nm of each other, which is ∼5× greater than the resolving power of conventional microscopy. In this protocol, we describe the use of the proximity ligation assay, which combines immunohistochemistry with DNA amplification, to reveal protein colocalization in theDrosophilaNMJ.
TheDrosophilaLarval Neuromuscular Junction: Developmental Overview
Authors: Ashley James , Carrillo Robert A.
Published: June 2024

For decades, theDrosophilalarval neuromuscular junction (NMJ) has been a go-to model for synaptic development. This simple, accessible system is composed of a repeating pattern of 33 distinct neurons that stereotypically innervate 30 muscles. Fundamental mechanisms that underlie diverse aspects of axon pathfinding, synaptic form, and function have been uncovered at the NMJ, and new pathways continue to be uncovered. These discoveries are fueled by the ease of dissections and an extensive array of techniques. Chief among these techniques are various microscopy approaches, including super-resolution and electron microscopy. Functionally, theDrosophilaNMJ is glutamatergic, similar to the vertebrate central synapses, making it a great model to study normal development and neurological diseases. Here we provide a brief overview of the larval neuromuscular system, highlighting the connectivity patterns, development, and some of the mechanisms underlying these processes.
Crystalline finite-size topology
Authors: Pacholski Michał J. , Cook Ashley M.
Published: June 2024

Topological phases stabilized by crystalline point group symmetry protection are a large class of symmetry-protected topological phases subjected to considerable experimental scrutiny. Here, we show that the canonical three-dimensional (3D) crystalline topological insulator protected by time-reversal symmetry T and fourfold rotation symmetry C4 individually or the product symmetry C4T, generically realizes finite-size crystalline topological phases in thin film geometry [a quasi-(3−1)-dimensional, or q(3−1)D, geometry]: response signatures of the 3D bulk topology coexist with topologically protected, quasi-(3−2)D, and quasi-(3−3)D boundary modes within the energy gap resulting from strong hybridization of the Dirac cone surface states of the underlying 3D crystalline topological phase. Importantly, we find qualitative distinctions between these gapless boundary modes and those of strictly 2D crystalline topological states with the same symmetry protection and develop a low-energy, analytical theory of the finite-size topological magnetoelectric response.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Mixed mode transition in boundary layers: Helical instability
Authors: Bose Rikhi , Durbin Paul A.
Published: June 2024

Recent [Bose and Durbin, ] direct numerical simulations (DNS) of adverse- and zero-pressure-gradient boundary layers beneath moderate levels of free stream turbulence (Tu≤2%) revealed a mixed mode transition regime, intermediate between orderly and bypass routes. In this regime, the amplitudes of the Klebanoff streaks and instability waves are similar, and both can contribute significantly as these interact. Three-dimensional visualizations of transitional eddies revealed a helical pattern, quite distinct from the sinuous and varicose forms seen in pure bypass transition. This raises the fundamental question of whether the helical pattern could be attributed to a previously unknown instability mode. In the present work, based on stability analyses, we show that it is indeed the case. Two-dimensional stability analyses are performed herein for base flows extracted from DNS flow fields. The three-dimensional structure of the eigenfunction of the most unstable mode indeed reveals a helical pattern. The instability arises well upstream of the appearance of helical structures in flow visualizations. In DNS, fluctuations at wavelengths corresponding to the instability modes have negligible energy in the upstream region. Due to their high growth rates, these instability modes develop into helical patterns in the transition region, which quickly break down. The streak configuration leading to the formation of the helical mode instability is different from those leading to sinuous and varicose modes, analyzed in previous studies of pure bypass transition. Thus, the mixed mode precursor is the distinctive cause of helical mode transition.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Examining emotional intelligence evolution with age: insights from Bulgarian digital entrepreneurs of different generations
Authors: Todorova Ana
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This article aims to explore the relationship between age and emotional intelligence, as the latter emerges as essential to professional performance and an individual’s ability to adapt to an ever-changing world. The study examines the emotional intelligence of Bulgarian digital entrepreneurs from different generations.

Design/methodology/approach

The developed methodology for studying the emotional intelligence of digital business owners is based on Daniel Goleman’s model of emotional intelligence. The sample consists of 1,175 participants; the statistical error for the studied population is 2.8%. The demographic groups covered by the study are as follows: 1965 (Baby Boomers); 1965–1979 (Generation X); 1980–1995 (Generation Y); and 1995 (Generation Z). Data were collected using an anonymous form and subsequently analysed.

Findings

The comparison between the different generations of Bulgarian digital entrepreneurs reflects an increasing trend with age in the ability to exercise and apply emotional intelligence. The findings also show that although emotional intelligence is seen as the result of five components – self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills, the predominance of only one of these competencies does not guarantee high emotional intelligence. At the same time, self-awareness stands out as an ever-evolving component of emotional intelligence.

Originality/value

This paper integrates the concept of the development of emotional intelligence with age and confirms that general emotional intelligence may increase with age. Therefore, the study adds value to the literature on entrepreneurship, organisational behaviour and human resource management.
The hustle is real: an examination of the self-related consequences of consuming idealized self-promotional content on LinkedIn
Authors: Oliver Sebastian , Marder Ben , Lavertu Laura , Cowan Kirsten , Javornik Ana , Osadchaya Elena
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Everyday users of professional networks such as LinkedIn are flooded by posts presenting the achievements of their connections (e.g. I got a new job/award). The present research takes a self-discrepancy perspective to examine the mixed-emotional and behavioral consequences of viewing such idealized self-promotional content on professional networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The emotional and behavioral consequences following viewership of idealized self-promotional content on LinkedIn are explored through one pilot study (N = 109) and one online experiment (N = 714), which is evaluated using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Viewership of idealized self-promotional content on professional social networking sites acts as an emotional double-edged sword for LinkedIn users. Users feel both dejection and symhedonia (i.e. happiness for others), dependent on their reported career-based self-discrepancy. We find the experience of symhedonia to be bound by the relational closeness of the poster (acquaintance vs close friend). Furthermore, we show how resultant emotions drive self-regulatory compensatory IT-use behaviors (i.e. direct resolution, fluid compensation, dissociation, and escapism).

Originality/value

We offer four distinct contributions. Firstly, we disentangle inconsistent findings of mixed emotions by introducing symhedonia to IT literature. Secondly, we investigate the boundary condition of relational closeness. Thirdly, we extend our findings by investigating compensatory-consumption behaviors that stem from mixed-affective outcomes. Finally, we do so in the context of professional networks, which are greatly understudied and are distinctive from personal networks. Practical implications are discussed.
Chatbot symbolic recovery and customer forgiveness: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Zaki Heba Salah , Al-Romeedy Bassam Samir
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Artificial intelligence-based chatbots are frequently used to handle customer complaints in the hospitality and tourism sectors; however, little is known about their recovery strategies. Further, the widespread usage of chatbots is anticipated to affect customers' favorable responses. Therefore, this study aims to examine how chatbots’ symbolic recovery influences customer forgiveness through customer empathy and explore the moderating effect of time pressure on it. Moreover, it investigates the effect of customer forgiveness on customer reconciliation and customer continuous trust.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling was used to analyze data collected from 994 customers who have experienced chatbot recovery in tourism and hospitality during the past four months.

Findings

The results show that chatbots’ symbolic recovery stimulates customer forgiveness, which subsequently positively affects customer reconciliation and customer continuous trust. Moreover, customer empathy partially mediates the effect of chatbots’ symbolic recovery on customer forgiveness, and time pressure plays a moderating role in the relationship between chatbots’ symbolic recovery and customer forgiveness.

Practical implications

The results offer highly persuasive insights that may be used to promote chatbots’ symbolic recovery in tourism organizations. The effectiveness of chatbots’ symbolic recovery in achieving customer forgiveness will motivate tourism organizations to use chatbots efficiently in service recovery.

Originality/value

This study extends the theoretical scope of chatbot research by investigating the symbolic recovery capabilities of chatbots. Moreover, it expands the application of SOR theory in the context of chatbot service recovery and reveals the underlying mechanism behind the impact of chatbots’ symbolic recovery on customer forgiveness, thus building and testing an integrative model of chatbot service recovery.
“Workplaces in the mind” as metaphor: advising industry managers doing doctoral research about organisational change management
Authors: Elsey Barry
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to reflect on “good practices” in doctoral research supervision and transfer the author’s experience to other academics. The author explains the sources of his approach to doctoral research supervision drawing on traditional practice in adult learning and some reference to phenomenology as a “meeting of minds” between academic and industry mindsets.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a reflective paper condensing many years of practical experience advising industry managers doing doctoral research. It is not an empirical study as such but draws on extensive practitioner experience based on many successful PhD completions in the business and management domain.

Findings

There are no empirical findings as such, but ample practical experience of doctoral research process and outcomes over 40 years of supervision in both the UK and Australian Universities.

Research limitations/implications

Generalisation is limited to the number of doctoral research completions (between 70 and 80).

Practical implications

The paper concludes with indicators of what the author regards as “good practices” in doctoral research supervision.

Social implications

None is directly applicable, but academe-industry working partnerships might be improved with the author’s learner- and customer-centred approach to doctoral research with adults in senior positions in the industry wanting to do research.

Originality/value

This paper is based entirely on the author’s own working experience as a senior academic in UK and Australian Universities.
Viscous fluid flow and heat transfer past a permeable wall jet with convective boundary conditions
Authors: Aly Emad H. , Khan Usafzai Waqar , Merkin John H. , Pop Ioan M.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The steady laminar wall jet flow over a stretching/shrinking surface in the presence of lateral suction or injection with a convective boundary condition is considered.

Design/methodology/approach

The partial differential equations for mass, momentum and energy conservation are changed to the system of ordinary differential equations through similarity solution transformations. Solutions, both numerical and asymptotic, to these similarity equations are found in some new ranges of parameters in the governing equations.

Findings

The equations are solved both asymptotically and numerically for a range of the transpiration parameter S and the flow parameter λ given in Mahros et al. (2023), thus greatly extending the range of these previous solutions. Asymptotic solutions for both large and small values of the Prandtl number σ are derived, showing good agreement with additional numerical integrations. It should be noted that in Mahros et al. (2023), only the case when σ=1 was treated. A solution for large λ when S=1 is obtained, showing a different asymptotic form to the case when S>0 in Mahros et al. (2023). Multiple solutions were seen by them for S<0 and the nature of the lower solution branch as S→0 from below is discussed. The question as to whether the lower branch solutions join as λ>0 when S<0 is resolved through obtaining an asymptotic solution λ small.

Originality/value

The accuracy of the solutions has been checked through a detailed comparison between the solutions obtained numerically and analytically, where excellent agreement has been found. This study is important for scientists working in the area of jet flows to become familiar with the flow properties and behaviour of jets.
Investigation of metabolic syndrome among people living with HIV: insight from a comparative study
Authors: Akintola Olutosin Phebean , Oladoyinbo Catherine Adebukola , Ayedun David Olayinka
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) considering a comparative study.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out with 247 respondents which include 123 HIV patients and 124 people without HIV (PWoH) recruited using a simple random sampling method. Anthropometric measurements were taken using the standard procedures and instruments. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure was measured in all the subjects. The lipid level and blood glucose were obtained using a vacutainer method to collect at least 5 ml of venous blood into a heparin-containing bottle and fluoride bottle, and a chemical pathology analysis was conducted at the pathology laboratory.

Findings

Using the International Diabetes Federation criteria, the overall prevalence of MetS was 21.1%, while 27.6% and 14.5% prevalence were observed among the PLWHIV and PWoH, respectively. In all, 4% of the respondents were underweight, 40.9% had normal body mass index, 29.6 were overweight and 18.6 were obese I. The mean total cholesterol and triglycerides (TG) for PLWHIV and controls were 162.59 ± 37.80, 177.54 ± 34.23, 91.62 ± 51.74 and 69.59 ± 33.87 mg/dl, respectively. There was no significant association between gender and MetS. Of all the determinants of MetS, central obesity has the highest prevalence (71.5%, 65.3%) among the PLWHIV and the controls. Raised TGs were the components of MetS with the least prevalence (9.8% and 4.8%) among PLWHIV and PWoH. There was a significant association between reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.001) and raised blood pressure (p = 0.001) of PLWHIV and PWoH. This study reveals that the burden of MetS among PLWHIV is higher than apparently healthy individuals.

Research limitations/implications

This study could not measure the association between specific antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens and MetS because all the PLWHIV in the study are on one regimen Tenofovir disoproxil/lamivudine/dolutegravir. Therefore, longitudinal studies on the extent of ART on MetS should be carried out while using newly diagnosed HIV patients who are not yet on ART as controls.

Practical implications

Prevalence of MetS and its components toward the high range among PLWHIV compared to the PWoH who are apparently healthy individuals was found. Higher prevalence of central obesity and reduced HDL-C among PLWHIV was also found. Overall, MetS is high among PLWHIV, and this might predispose them to adverse metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and kidney diseases among others. Therefore, screening for metabolic risk factors should be adopted as part of routine HIV care.

Originality/value

The findings reveal the magnitude of MetS among PLWHIV compared to the apparently healthy individuals.
Impact of financial reporting quality on investment efficiency and role of investor protection in frontier markets
Authors: Khan Muhammad Azhar , Irfan Saadia , Naveed Samina
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the link between financial reporting quality and investment efficiency in publicly listed firms in frontier markets, taking into account country-level investor protection. By comparing real and accrual earnings management, this paper demonstrates the context-dependent nature of the impact of financial reporting quality. It emphasises the importance of improving investor protection and reducing agency conflicts in promoting investment efficiency in frontier markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Accounting data from 1998 to 2020 are collected for all listed firms in six frontier market countries across 21 industries. Fixed-effect regression analysis is used to test causal relationships; several robustness checks are performed; and two-stage least squares is used to address endogeneity concerns.

Findings

Higher financial reporting quality improves investment efficiency in frontier markets. Furthermore, the positive effect is amplified when country-level investor protection in frontier markets is strong.

Originality/value

These findings add to the growing body of evidence showing that financial reporting quality improves investment efficiency, even in frontier markets. Furthermore, the level of investor protection within a country strengthens this relationship, particularly in firms that are prone to underinvestment.
Navigating HRM practices in the Indian institutional context: multinational vs domestic enterprises in comparative perspective
Authors: Melhem Muntaser J. , Khassawneh Osama , Darwish Tamer K. , Singh Satwinder , Alanezi Abdullah N.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The role of distinct institutional context in shaping employment practices is particularly evident in emerging markets where institutional measures are often evolving and not yet fully established. This presents several challenges, particularly for multinational corporations (MNCs) operating in such contexts. This research paper aims to provide a comparative analysis of HRM practices, specifically recruitment and selection, internal career opportunities and performance appraisals between domestic and multinational companies in a large emerging economy, that is India.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, survey-based data was gathered from a diverse sample of 252 companies, comprising both domestic enterprises (DEs) and MNCs, to collect comprehensive data on HRM practices. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the variations in HRM approaches between DEs and MNCs, taking into account the unique institutional context of the Indian market.

Findings

Contrary to initial expectations, the study’s findings do not support the hypothesis that MNCs would prioritize more rigorous and effective HRM practices compared to DEs in the Indian context. Instead, the results reveal that DEs place a greater emphasis on effective HRM practices than their MNC counterparts, despite the latter’s international reach and operational success. These findings shed light on the distinctive HRM strategies used by MNCs and DEs when navigating the complexities of the Indian market.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing IB literature by providing a comparative perspective that emphasizes DEs proclivity for institutional entrepreneurship and change. Exploring the resource dynamics for both MNCs and DEs, the study showcases them as divergent adaptive navigators within (in)formal institutional logics, adept at navigating and influencing institutional structures and shaping distinct HRM practices. The findings challenge traditional assumptions about HRM priorities of MNCs and DEs.
Differences in the clinical presentation of necrotizing fasciitis depending on the causative pathogen
Authors: Kato Hiroshi , Kawaguchi Yohei , Saito Kenta , Hamamoto Shuzo , Nakamura Ryota , Ohashi Kazuki , Kondo Shuhei , Nakamura Atsushi , Morita Akimichi
Published: June 2024

Necrotizing fasciitis is a fatal, soft tissue infection of the skin that requires prompt treatment. Historically, most cases have been attributed to group A beta‐hemolytic Streptococcus infection. However, in recent years, other bacteria have been identified as causing necrotizing fasciitis. In the current study, we analyzed cases of necrotizing fasciitis and examined the significant differences in symptoms caused by pathogenic bacteria. We included 79 patients (43 males and 36 females, mean age 65.4 years) diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis who visited our hospital between April 2004 and July 2023. The patients were classified into five groups based on the identified pathogen: group A beta‐hemolytic Streptococcus; group B beta‐hemolytic streptococcus; group G beta‐hemolytic Streptococcus; mixed infection, including anaerobic bacteria; and Staphylococcus (S) aureus. The clinical characteristics of patients, including treatment duration and laboratory values, were analyzed. Group G beta‐hemolytic Streptococcus was more common in older patients (Bonferroni method, p < 0.05). Patients with S. aureus tended to be hyperglycemic (Bonferroni method, p < 0.05), had a higher rate of bacteremia (Fisher's direct probability test, p < 0.05), and had a longer treatment duration than the other examined groups (Bonferroni method, p = 0.0132). Although the five groups did not differ in the mortality rate, overall survival was shorter in the mixed infection group than in the other groups (log‐rank test, p < 0.05). The legs were the most common site of infection in the non‐mixed infection group; in the mixed infection group, the pubic area was identified as the most common site of infection, accompanied by a poor prognosis. Collectively, these findings suggest that necrotizing fasciitis can be characterized by pathogenic bacteria and that these characteristics may inversely predict the pathogen of origin.
Reevaluating the role of interferon‐beta in psoriasis pathogenesis: A registry‐based self‐controlled study
Authors: Heerfordt Ida M. , Framke Elisabeth , Windfeld‐Mathiasen Josefine , Mogensen Mette , Olsen Rasmus Huan , Magyari Melinda , Horwitz Henrik
Published: June 2024

Interferon‐beta has been suggested as a trigger of psoriasis, yet a systematic investigation is lacking. This study aimed to assess the risk of developing psoriasis following interferon‐beta treatment, utilizing a pharmaco‐epidemiological approach to investigate the role of interferon‐beta in psoriasis pathogenesis. We included all treatment‐naïve patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Denmark who initiated interferon‐beta treatment for MS from January 1996 to June 2023. These patients were compared to a control cohort of patients with MS treated with other disease‐modifying drugs. We compared the incidence rates of psoriasis before and during the treatment. Data for this study were extracted from the Danish MS Registry and integrated with information from other national Danish health registries. Among 7174 patients treated with interferon‐beta, the incidence rate of psoriasis post‐treatment initiation was slightly higher (2.01 per 1000 person‐years) compared to the rate prior to treatment (1.67 per 1000 person‐years). This increase did not achieve statistical significance (P = 0.53), with an incidence rate ratio (IRR) of 1.20 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68–2.13). The control cohort showed an increase in psoriasis incidence post‐treatment initiation (3.12 per 1000 person‐years) compared to prior (1.11 per 1000 person‐years), with an IRR of 2.80 (95% CI 1.36–4.77, P = 0.0038). This registry‐based self‐controlled study does not support the theory that interferon‐beta acts as a trigger for psoriasis development.
Home is where the heart is? A comparative analysis of Flemish and Danish parties' organizational linkages with the EU
Authors: Pittoors Gilles
Published: June 2024

In the light of the crucial role political parties play in connecting citizens with political decisions, this article assesses national parties' organizational linkages with the European level. It focuses on explaining variation between parties and the motivations they have to organize the way they do. Building on qualitative comparative case studies of Danish and Flemish parties, this study finds that country‐level factors override party‐level factors. Particularly the domestic political relevance of European affairs, combined with historical ties with European integration and distance from Brussels, determine the nature of parties' multilevel linkages. Contributing to the literature on parties as multilevel organization in the EU, these findings call attention to the great difficulty parties face in reaching beyond the confines of the nation‐state, despite the important role they play in providing the EU with the necessary democratic legitimacy.
Waste to protein: A systematic review of a century of advancement in microbial fermentation of agro‐industrial byproducts
Authors: Nadar Cresha Gracy , Fletcher Andrew , Moreira Bruno Rafael de Almeida , Hine Damian , Yadav Sudhir
Published: June 2024

Increasing global consumption of protein over the last five decades, coupled with concerns about the impact on emissions of animal‐based protein production, has created interest in alternative protein sources. Microbial proteins (MPs), derived through the fermentation of agro‐industrial byproducts, present a promising option. This review assesses a century of advancements in this domain. We conducted a comprehensive review and meta‐analysis, examining 347 relevant research papers to identify trends, technological advancements, and key influencing factors in the production of MP. The analysis covered the types of feedstocks and microbes, fermentation methods, and the implications of nucleic acid content on the food‐grade quality of proteins. A conditional inference tree model and Bayesian factor were used to ascertain the impact of various parameters on protein content. Out of all the studied parameters, such as type of feedstock (lignocellulose, free sugars, gases, and others), type of fermentation (solid, liquid, gas), type of microbe (bacteria, fungi, yeast, and mix), and operating parameters (temperature, time, and pH), the type of fermentation and microbe were identified as the largest influences on protein content. Gas and liquid fermentation demonstrated higher protein content, averaging 52% and 42%, respectively. Among microbes, bacterial species produced a higher protein content of 51%. The suitable operating parameters, such as pH, time, and temperature, were also identified for different microbes. The results point to opportunities for continued innovation in feedstock, microbes, and regulatory alignment to fully realize the potential of MP in contributing to global food security and sustainability goals.
Prevalence of gunshot residue particles on back seats of police vehicles
Authors: Israelsohn Azulay Osnat , Zidon Yigal , Malihi Lital , Rosengarten Hila , Cohen Yaron
Published: June 2024

The presence of gunshot residue (GSR) in a sample can provide valuable information in forensic investigations by associating a suspect with a shooting incident. However, in order to have confidence in the integrity of the results' interpretation, the possibility of contamination by secondary transfer of GSR occurring during the transportation of a person under custody in a police vehicle should be evaluated. In order to investigate police vehicles as a source for secondary transfer of GSR particles, a total of 51 samples were collected from the rear seats of random police vehicles and used to transport arrested individuals. Results indicated that the type of upholstery of the seats plays a main role in determining the potential for secondary GSR contamination. The potential chance of coming into contact with GSR particles in police vehicles is low. GSR contamination from police vehicles is, maybe, not of a major concern but should be taken into consideration mainly when very few characteristic GSR particles are found on an analyzed sample.
Click chemistry beyond metal‐catalyzed cycloaddition as a remarkable tool for green chemical synthesis of antifungal medications
Authors: Tahghighi Azar , Azerang Parisa
Published: June 2024

Click chemistry is widely used for the efficient synthesis of 1,4‐disubstituted‐1,2,3‐triazole, a well‐known scaffold with widespread biological activity in the pharmaceutical sciences. In recent years, this magic ring has attracted the attention of scientists for its potential in designing and synthesizing new antifungal agents. Despite scientific and medical advances, fungal infections still account for more than 1.5 million deaths globally per year, especially in people with compromised immune function. This increasing trend is definitely related to a raise in the incidence of fungal infections and prevalence of antifungal drug resistance. In this condition, an urgent need for new alternative antifungals is undeniable. By focusing on the main aspects of reaction conditions in click chemistry, this review was conducted to classify antifungal 1,4‐disubstituted‐1,2,3‐triazole hybrids based on their chemical structures and introduce the most effective triazole antifungal derivatives. It was notable that in all reactions studied, Cu(I) catalysts generated in situ by the reduction in Cu(II) salts or used copper(I) salts directly, as well as mixed solvents of t‐BuOH/H2O and DMF/H2O had most application in the synthesis of triazole ring. The most effective antifungal activity was also observed in fluconazole analogs containing 1,2,3‐triazole moiety and benzo‐fused five/six‐membered heterocyclic conjugates with a 1,2,3‐triazole ring, even with better activity than fluconazole. The findings of structure–activity relationship and molecular docking of antifungal derivatives synthesized with copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) could offer medicinal chemistry scientists valuable data on designing and synthesizing novel triazole antifungals with more potent biological activities in their future research.
Teaching Without Thinking: Negative Evaluations of Rote Pedagogy
Authors: Bass Ilona , Espinoza Cristian , Bonawitz Elizabeth , Ullman Tomer D.
Published: June 2024

When people make decisions, they act in a way that is either automatic (“rote”), or more thoughtful (“reflective”). But do people notice when others are behaving in a rote way, and do they care? We examine the detection of rote behavior and its consequences in U.S. adults, focusing specifically on pedagogy and learning. We establish repetitiveness as a cue for rote behavior (Experiment 1), and find that rote people are seen as worse teachers (Experiment 2). We also find that the more a person's feedback seems similar across groups (indicating greater rote‐ness), the more negatively their teaching is evaluated (Experiment 3). A word‐embedding analysis of an open‐response task shows people naturally cluster rote and reflective teachers into different semantic categories (Experiment 4). We also show that repetitiveness can be decoupled from perceptions of rote‐ness given contextual explanation (Experiment 5). Finally, we establish two additional cues to rote behavior that can be tied to quality of teaching (Experiment 6). These results empirically show that people detect and care about scripted behaviors in pedagogy, and suggest an important extension to formal frameworks of social reasoning.
Effects of florfenicol on the midgut physiological function of Bombyx mori, based on the diversity of intestinal microbiota
Authors: Tian Chao , Zou Hongbin , Guo Xiqian , Shu Qilong , Zhang Xiaoxia , Cheng Jialu , Gu Zhiya , Li Fanchi , Li Bing
Published: June 2024

Florfenicol (FF) is a new antibiotic commonly used in sericulture. This study aimed to examine the effects of low (LC: 0.06 g/L), medium (MC: 0.12 g/L), and high (HC: 1.2 g/L) concentrations of FF on the midgut physiological functions of the silkworm, Bombyx mori (L.) (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae). The results showed that the body weight and the whole cocoon weight of silkworms decreased and the development duration of the fifth instar was prolonged in the HC group. The structure of intestinal microbiota of silkworm larvae was changed by high FF exposure. Specifically, the abundance of conditional pathogens (Curtobacterium, Sanguibater, etc.) was significantly increased, whereas the abundance of Pseudomonas and Pedobacter was decreased significantly. Additionally, the intestinal reactive oxygen species level at 72 h was significantly elevated, and the muscle layer had become loose, together with the appearance of gut goblet cell atrophy. We observed that the increase in Lactobacillus abundance led to a reduction in intestinal fluid pH, resulting in decreased α‐amylase and protease activities, whereas lipase activity exhibited an elevation. The results demonstrated that the accumulation of peroxides induced by exposure to 1.2 g/L FF caused intestinal damage, and the decrease in pH resulting from alterations in microbial composition and structure affected digestive enzyme activity, collectively leading to physiological impairment of the silkworm midgut. These findings provide a valuable reference for the safe use of FF in sericulture.