bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersive effects in ultrafast nonlinear phenomena: The case of optical Kerr effect
Authors: Lorenc Dusan , Alpichshev Zhanybek
Published: January 2024

It is a basic principle that an effect cannot come before the cause. Dispersive relations that follow from this fundamental fact have proven to be an indispensable tool in physics and engineering. They are most powerful in the domain of linear response where they are known as Kramers-Kronig relations. However, when it comes to nonlinear phenomena the implications of causality are much less explored, apart from several notable exceptions. Here in this paper we demonstrate how to apply the dispersive formalism to analyze the ultrafast nonlinear response in the context of the paradigmatic nonlinear Kerr effect. We find that the requirement of causality introduces a noticeable effect even under assumption that Kerr effect is mediated by quasi-instantaneous off-resonant electronic hyperpolarizability. We confirm this by experimentally measuring the time-resolved Kerr dynamics in GaAs by means of a hybrid pump-probe Mach-Zehnder interferometer and demonstrate the presence of an intrinsic lagging between amplitude and phase responses as predicted by dispersive analysis. Our results describe a general property of the time-resolved nonlinear processes thereby highlighting the importance of accounting for dispersive effects in the nonlinear optical processes involving ultrashort pulses.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Interstate Berry curvature of hinge state and its detection
Authors: Liu Zheng , Qiao Zhenhua , Gao Yang , Niu Qian
Published: January 2024

We demonstrate that the topological hinge state can possess a nontrivial interstate Berry curvature in the non-Abelian formulation of the Berry curvature. It can be readily probed by the circular photogalvanic effect (CPGE), with the light illuminating a specific hinge, and we refer to it as the hinge CPGE. As a concrete example, we calculate the hinge CPGE in ferromagnetic MnBi2nTe3n+1, and find that the hinge CPGE peak structure well reflects the interstate Berry curvature of hinge states and the optical sum rule captures the interstate Berry curvature between the hinge state and the ground state. Thus, the hinge CPGE provides a promising route towards the optical detection of a hinge-state geometrical structure.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Pauli blockade catalogue and three- and four-particle Kondo effect in bilayer graphene quantum dots
Authors: Tong Chuyao , Kurzmann Annika , Garreis Rebekka , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Ihn Thomas , Ensslin Klaus
Published: January 2024

Pauli blockade is a fundamental quantum phenomenon that also serves as a powerful tool for qubit manipulation and readout. While most systems exhibit a simple even-odd pattern of double-dot Pauli spin blockade due to the preferred singlet pairing of spins, the additional valley degree of freedom offered by bilayer graphene greatly alters this pattern. Inspecting bias-triangle measurements at double-dot charge degeneracies with up to four electrons in each dot reveals a much richer double-dot Pauli blockade catalog with both spin and/or valley blockade. In addition, we use single-dot Kondo effect measurements to substantiate our understanding of the three- and four-particle state spectra by analyzing their magnetic field dependence. With high controllability and reported long valley- and spin-relaxation times, bilayer graphene is a rising platform for hosting semiconductor quantum dot qubits. A thorough understanding of state spectra is crucial for qubit design and manipulation, and the rich Pauli blockade catalog provides an abundance of qubit operational possibilities and opportunities to explore intriguing spin and valley physics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Zharchikhite, AlF(OH)2: a novel structure type related to α-PbO2
Authors: Zubkova Natalia V. , Pekov Igor V. , Ksenofontov Dmitry A. , Pushcharovsky Dmitry Yu.
Published: January 2024

The crystal structure of zharchikhite, AlF(OH)2, from the Zharchikhinskoe deposit (Buryatia, Russia) is solved here using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The mineral is monoclinic, space group P21
/c, a = 5.1788 (4), b = 7.8386 (4), c = 5.1624 (4) Å, β = 116.276 (10)°, V = 187.91 (3) Å3 and Z = 4. Zharchikhite demonstrates a novel structure type roughly related to the α-PbO2 structure type and different from other compounds of the Al–F–OH system. The crystal structure of zharchikhite is based on the octahedral pseudoframework built from zigzag chains of edge-sharing AlF2(OH)4 octahedra; adjacent chains are linked via F vertices and the pseudoframework contains wide channels.
Mathematical modelling and PID control system implementation for quadcopter frame Tarot FY650
Authors: G. Gowtham , R. Jagan Raj
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to find the suitable trajectory path of the Numerical model of the Quadcopter. Quadcopters are widely used in various applications due to their compact size and ease of assembly. Because they are quite unstable, autonomous control systems would be used to overcome this problem. Modelling autonomous control is predominant as the research scope faces challenges because of its highly non-linear, multivariable system with 6 degree of freedom.

Design/methodology/approach

Quadcopters with antonym systems can operate in an unknown environment by overcoming unexpected disturbances. The first objective when designing such a system is to design an accurate mathematical model to describe the dynamics of the system. Newton’s law of motion was used to build the mathematical model of the system.

Findings

Establishment of the mathematical model and the physics behind a four propeller drone for the frame TAROT 650 carbon was done. Simulink model was developed based on the mathematical model for simulating the complete dynamics of the drone as well as location and gusts were included to check the stability.

Originality/value

The control response of the system was simulated numerically results are discussed. The trajectory path was found. The phases with their own parameters can be used to implement the mathematical model for another type of quadcopter model and achieve quick development.
A systematic literature review on vlog marketing: thematic analysis and future research directions
Authors: Zhang Peilin , Hasan Najmul , Chiong Raymond , Chao Chih-Wei (Fred)
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) on vlog marketing. The focus was to analyse the major themes in this field and provide insights for future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors reviewed a total of 49 peer-reviewed publications that include the search terms “vlog” or “video blog” in their titles, keywords and abstracts, retrieved from digital databases Scopus and Web of Science, up to the end of July 2023. Thematic analysis was used to examine and synthesise the articles.

Findings

The authors found 19 sub-themes and identified four major themes that emerged from the literature: (1) endorsement outcomes, (2) vlogger characteristics, (3) consumer credibility and (4) vlog content crafting.

Originality/value

There are many unanswered questions in the literature, suggesting that vlog marketing research is still in its infancy, and that in-depth further studies are required for a more comprehensive understanding of the field. This study has identified potential avenues for future research that may contribute to the existing body of knowledge and valuable insights on vlog marketing.
The role of tweets in agricultural export: an approach from text-mining and time-series analyses
Authors: Inoue Yutaro , Nakajima Shinsaku
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between consumer awareness of Zespri International Limited (Zespri™) and its sales promotion in Japan and the recent expansion of New Zealand (NZ) kiwifruit imported into Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

Tweets mentioning Zespri™ were utilised as a proxy of such awareness. They were first summarised using two text-mining techniques: tf-idf scoring and a co-occurrence network graph. Afterwards, the authors estimated a tri-variate vector autoregression (VAR) model consisting of the net imports of NZ kiwifruit in Japan, unit import price and number of tweets. Additionally, the occurrence frequency of tweets with “Kiwi Brothers”, promotional characters for Zespri™’s sales, was added to the model, and a tetra-variate VAR model was estimated. Finally, Granger-causality tests, an estimation of the impulse response function and forecast error variance decomposition was conducted.

Findings

All these variables were found to Granger-cause each other. Furthermore, a shock in the document frequency of “Kiwi Brothers” significantly affected Japan’s kiwifruit imports from NZ, explaining approximately 20% of future imports. Zespri™’s distinctive sales promotion was, thus, found to contribute in part to the recent increase in NZ’s kiwifruit export to Japan.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to apply text-regression methodology to food consumption research; it contributes to food consumption research by proposing a practical way to combine tweets with outcome variables using a time-series analysis.
Forging a sustainable path: improving India’s (Bharat’s) coal mining operations for a better tomorrow
Authors: Hasanuzzaman  , Chakraborty Kaustov , Bag Surajit
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Sustainability is a major challenge for India’s (Bharat’s) coal mining industry. The government has prioritized sustainable growth in the coal mining industry. It is putting forth multifaceted economic, environmental and social efforts to accomplish the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research aims to identify the factors for sustainable improvements in coal mining operations. Secondly, this study examines the intensity of causal relations among the factors. Thirdly, this study examines whether causal relations exist among the factors to be considered for sustainable improvement in coal mining operations. Lastly, the study aims to understand how the factors ensure sustainable improvement in coal mining operations.

Design/methodology/approach

An integrated three-phase methodology was applied to identify the critical factors related to coal mining and explore the contextual relationships among the identified factors. Fifteen critical factors were selected based on the Delphi technique. Subsequently, the fifteen factors were analyzed to determine the contextual and causal relationships using the total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) and DEMATEL methods.

Findings

The study identified “Extraction of Coal and Overburden” as the leading factor for sustainable improvement in coal mining operations, because it directly or indirectly influences the overall mining operation, environmental impact and resource utilization. Hence, strict control measures are necessary in “Extraction of Coal and Overburden” to ensure sustainable coal mining. Conversely, “Health Impact” is the lagging factor as it has very low or no impact on the system. Therefore, it requires fewer control mechanisms. Nevertheless, control measures for the remaining factors must be decided on a priority basis.

Practical implications

The proposed structural model can serve as a framework for enhancing sustainability in India’s (Bharat’s) coal mining operations. This framework can also be applied to other developing nations with similar sustainability concerns, providing valuable guidance for sustainable operations.

Originality/value

The current study highlights the significance of logical links and dependencies between several parameters essential to coal mining sustainability. Furthermore, it leads to the development of a well-defined control sequence that identifies the causal linkages between numerous components needed to achieve real progress towards sustainability.
The role of social partners in facilitating return to work: a comparative analysis for Belgium and Italy
Authors: Armaroli Ilaria , Akgüç Mehtap
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study explores how social partners contribute to the successful return to work (RTW) of individuals affected by chronic diseases, employing the framework of actor-centred institutionalism.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a comparative case study methodology to assess the role of social partners in the workplace (re-)integration of people with chronic disease in Belgium and Italy, both of which represent well-developed industrial relations systems yet having different institutional and policy frameworks on RTW.

Findings

Institutional factors are found to affect the type and degree of social partners' commitment and contribution to RTW. Differences in their commitment can be explained by their varied degrees of integration in public policy formation, which explain their different preferred stages of interactions in this field: national tripartite social dialogue for Belgium; and sectoral collective bargaining for Italy. Unsatisfactory outcomes of social partners’ contribution in facilitating RTW processes are attributed to the fragmentation of the legal framework and uneven development of collective bargaining in Italy. In Belgium, the authors find the presence of cumbersome RTW procedures downplaying the role of the worker representative.

Originality/value

This paper adds empirical evidence to the limited literature on the role of social partners in facilitating RTW and sheds light on how to improve the current policy context. It suggests involving the social partners in the development of a comprehensive public policy framework, which should allow for an early, flexible and multi-stakeholder (re-)integration procedure following chronic disease.
Relationship between indoor environmental quality and residential mobility: implications for student housing design and management in Northern Ghana
Authors: Attakora-Amaniampong Elvis , Anugwo Iruka Chijindu , Appau Miller Williams
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to establish the relationship between indoor environmental quality and residential mobility in student housing in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Using multiple regression and exploratory factor analysis through post occupancy evaluation, 26 indoor environmental quality (IEQ) indicators were explored among 1,912 students living in Purpose-Built off-campus university housing in Northern Ghana.

Findings

The study established a negative relationship between indoor environmental quality and residential mobility among student housing in Northern Ghana. Residential mobility is primarily attributed to the dissatisfaction with thermal and indoor air quality.

Practical implications

The negative relationship affects vacancy and rental cashflows for property investors. Also, understanding local environmental conditions can influence future student housing design and enhance thermal and indoor air quality.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to studies on indoor environmental quality in student housing. In addition, establishing the relationship between indoor environmental quality and residential mobility in tropical African regions is novel.
Refugee entrepreneurship from an intersectional approach
Authors: Khademi Samaneh , Essers Caroline , Van Nieuwkerk Karin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This article develops an innovative multidisciplinary conceptual framework in the field of refugee entrepreneurship by combining the theory of mixed embeddedness with the concepts of intersectionality and agency. Focusing on the phenomenon of refugee entrepreneurship, this conceptual framework addresses the following questions: how is entrepreneurship informed by the various intersectional positions of refugees? And how do refugees exert their agency based on these intersecting identities?

Design/methodology/approach

By revising the mixed embeddedness approach and combining it with an intersectional approach, this study aims to develop a multidimensional conceptual framework.

Findings

This research illustrates how the intersectional positions of refugees impact their entrepreneurial motivations, resources and strategies. The authors' findings show that refugee entrepreneurship not only contributes to the economic independence of refugees in new societies but also creates opportunities for refugees to exert their agency.

Originality/value

This conceptual framework can be applied in empirical research and accordingly contributes to refugee entrepreneurship studies and intersectionality theory.
The effects of illegitimate tasks on employee silence and voice behavior: moderated mediation model
Authors: Yuan Xiaolong , Wang Feng , Deng Mianlin , Shi Wendian
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Based on conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study aims to examine the impact of daily illegitimate tasks on employees' daily silence and daily voice behavior, as well as the mediating role of daily ego depletion and the moderating role of trait mindfulness.

Design/methodology/approach

Through daily diary approach, 81 employees were followed for 10 consecutive workdays. Multilevel analysis was employed to examine the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The results showed that daily illegitimate tasks are positively related to daily silence behavior and negatively related to daily voice behavior; daily ego depletion plays a mediating role in these relationships. Trait mindfulness moderates the effect of daily illegitimate tasks on daily ego depletion and the indirect effect of daily illegitimate tasks on daily silence and daily voice.

Practical implications

Managers should be mindful of minimizing the assignment of illegitimate tasks. Additionally, it is recommended that the organization provide training courses for employees to help them reduce ego depletion. Finally, organizations should focus on fostering high levels of mindfulness among their employees.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by investigating the immediate impact of illegitimate tasks on employee voice and silence at within-person level. By doing so, it enhances comprehension of the consequences associated with illegitimate tasks. Meanwhile, this study offers additional insights into the underlying mechanisms and boundary conditions of the effect of illegitimate tasks from a resource perspective.
Entrepreneurship by Ph.D. students: intentions, human capital and university support structures
Authors: Opizzi Matteo , Loi Michela , Macis Orsola
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Doctoral students are promising entrepreneurial actors in university-based ventures, which positively impact the external environment and create value for their universities. In this article, the authors extend current research on academic entrepreneurship by shedding light on the role of university support in the early stage of Ph.D. entrepreneurship. Based on social information processing theory, the authors posit that academic entrepreneurship results from the interplay between doctoral students' human capital and university-level support. A multilevel model is proposed and empirically tested to shed light on the cradle of doctoral students' entrepreneurship by explaining the variance of their entrepreneurial alertness and intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A model is proposed that explains the combined effect of specific human capital and different forms of university support on doctoral students' cognitive transition from entrepreneurial alertness to intentions. The model was then tested through structural equation modeling (SEM) and multigroup analysis (MGA) on a sample of 187 doctoral students enrolled in Italian universities.

Findings

The SEM results reveal that doctoral students' entrepreneurial alertness is influenced by perceived educational support and human capital. The MGA demonstrates that those who perceive a higher level of support for concept and business development from universities are more likely to convert their alertness into intentions than those who perceive lower support.

Originality/value

The present paper brings to the stage doctoral students as an extremely promising entrepreneurial target. In doing so, it extends academic entrepreneurship studies by detailing how and when the different forms of university support influence their entrepreneurial decisions, along with individual dimensions.
Co-volatility dynamics in global cryptocurrency and conventional asset classes: a multivariate stochastic factor volatility approach
Authors: Velappan Shalini
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the co-volatility patterns between cryptocurrencies and conventional asset classes across global markets, encompassing 26 global indices ranging from equities, commodities, real estate, currencies and bonds.

Design/methodology/approach

It used a multivariate factor stochastic volatility model to capture the dynamic changes in covariance and volatility correlation, thus offering empirical insights into the co-volatility dynamics. Unlike conventional research on price or return transmission, this study directly models the time-varying covariance and volatility correlation.

Findings

The study uncovers pronounced co-volatility movements between cryptocurrencies and specific indices such as GSCI Energy, GSCI Commodity, Dow Jones 1 month forward and U.S. 10-year TIPS. Notably, these movements surpass those observed with precious metals, industrial metals and global equity indices across various regions. Interestingly, except for Japan, equity indices in the USA, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, India and China exhibit a co-volatility movement. These findings challenge the existing literature on cryptocurrencies and provide intriguing evidence regarding their co-volatility dynamics.

Originality

This study significantly contributes to applying asset pricing models in cryptocurrency markets by explicitly addressing price and volatility dynamics aspects. Using the stochastic volatility model, the research adding methodological contribution effectively captures cryptocurrency volatility's inherent fluctuations and time-varying nature. While previous literature has primarily focused on bitcoin and a few other cryptocurrencies, this study examines the stochastic volatility properties of a wide range of cryptocurrency indices. Furthermore, the study expands its scope by examining global asset markets, allowing for a comprehensive analysis considering the broader context in which cryptocurrencies operate. It bridges the gap between traditional asset pricing models and the unique characteristics of cryptocurrencies.
Piloting a narrative‐mantra multi‐clinician group for mental health clinicians at a child and adolescent mental health service in London, UK
Authors: Teh Yang Yang
Published: January 2024

This study presents a mixed‐methodology pilot study of a narrative‐mantra multi‐clinician group, which is an integrative systemic and mindfulness‐based intervention, to promote the well‐being of mental health clinicians working at a local child and adolescent mental health service in London, UK. The study also served as a nonclinical sample pilot for a narrative‐mantra multi‐family group trial for adolescents awaiting treatment and their parents. In total, nine clinicians participated in the study: five participants and four controls. Descriptive analyses were conducted on self‐reported measures, GHQ‐12 and SCORE‐15. Slight improvements were found in the clinicians' mental well‐being and their significant relationships. Five global themes emerged from the thematic analysis of a focus group discussion, including ‘voices that connect and liberate’ and ‘connecting ingredients for integration’.
Examining the impact of Medicaid payments for immediate postpartum long‐acting reversible contraception on the mental health of low‐income mothers
Authors: Marthey Daniel , Rochford Hannah , Andreyeva Elena
Published: January 2024

Objective

To examine the effect of Medicaid immediate postpartum long‐acting reversible contraception (IPP LARC) reforms on self‐reported mental health among low‐income mothers aged 18–44 years.

Data Sources and Study Setting

We used national secondary data on self‐reported mental health status in the past 30 days from the core component (2014–2019) of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Study Design

We estimated linear probability models for reporting any days of not good mental health in the past 30 days. We adjusted for individual‐level factors, state‐level factors, and state and year fixed effects. Our primary independent variable was an indicator for IPP LARC payment reform. We examined the effect of the Medicaid payment reforms on self‐reported mental health status in the past 30 days using difference‐in‐differences and event‐study designs.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Not applicable.

Principal Findings

State adoption of Medicaid IPP LARC reforms was associated with significant reductions (between 5.7% and 11.5%) in the predicted probability of reporting any days of not good mental health among low‐income mothers. Treatment effects appeared to be driven by respondents reporting two or more children (less than 18 years of age) in the household (ATT = ‐0.028, p = 0.04). Results are robust to a series of sensitivity tests and alternative estimation strategies.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that contemporary efforts to improve access to contraceptive methods may have important benefits beyond reproductive autonomy. These findings have implications for policymakers as the landscape related to family planning services continues to shift.
Assessing genome‐wide adaptations associated with range expansion in the pink rice borer, Sesamia inferens
Authors: Li Hongran , Peng Yan , Wu Chao , Li Zhimin , Zou Luming , Mao Kaikai , Ping Junfen , Buck Ryan , Monahan Scott , Sethuraman Arun , Xiao Yutao
Published: January 2024

Understanding the genetic basis of adaptive evolution following habitat expansion can have important implications for pest management. The pink rice borer (PRB), Sesamia inferens (Walker), is a destructive pest of rice that was historically restricted to regions south of 34° N latitude in China. However, with changes in global climate and farming practices, the distribution of this moth has progressively expanded, encompassing most regions in North China. Here, 3 highly differentiated subpopulations were discovered using high‐quality single‐nucleotide polymorphism and structural variant datasets across China, corresponding to northern, southern China regions, and the Yunnan‐Guizhou Plateau, with significant patterns of isolation by geographic and environmental distances. Our estimates of evolutionary history indicate asymmetric migration with varying population sizes across the 3 subpopulations. Selective sweep analyses estimated strong selection at insect cuticle glycine‐rich cuticular protein genes which are associated with enhanced desiccation adaptability in the northern group, and at the histone‐lysine‐N‐methyltransferase gene associated with range expansion and local adaptation in the Shandong population. Our findings have significant implications for the development of effective strategies to control this pest.
Antibacterial mechanism of inosine against Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris
Authors: Liu Xiaoxue , Wu Youzhi , Ran Junjian , Jiao Lingxia , Sun Linjun , Ye Fuzhou
Published: January 2024

Inosine could potentially become a novel antibacterial agent against Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris as low doses of inosine can prevent its contamination. However, until now the antibacterial mechanism of inosine targeting A. acidoterrestris is still unknown. In this study, to unravel the mechanism of inosine against A. acidoterrestris puzzle, the effects of inosine on bacterial surface hydrophobicity, intracellular protein content, cell membrane damage extent, and permeability of the A. acidoterrestris were investigated. The results showed that inosine can effectively inhibit the growth and reproduction of A. acidoterrestris by destroying the integrity of cell membrane and increasing its permeability, causing the leakage of intracellular nutrients. Furthermore, the interaction networks of inosine target proteins were analyzed. The interaction networks further revealed that damage to bacterial cell membranes might be relevant to inosine's effect on bacterial DNA replication and cell energy metabolism through regulating nucleotide synthesis and metabolism and the activity of translation initiation factors. Finally, the antibacterial mechanism of inosine against A. acidoterrestris was proposed.
Characterising the metabolic rewiring of extremely slow growing Komagataella phaffii
Authors: Coltman Benjamin Luke , Rebnegger Corinna , Gasser Brigitte , Zanghellini Jürgen
Published: January 2024

Retentostat cultivations have enabled investigations into substrate‐limited near‐zero growth for a number of microbes. Quantitative physiology at these near‐zero growth conditions has been widely discussed, yet characterisation of the fluxome is relatively under‐reported. We investigated the rewiring of metabolism in the transition of a recombinant protein‐producing strain of Komagataella phaffii to glucose‐limited near‐zero growth rates. We used cultivation data from a 200‐fold range of growth rates and comprehensive biomass composition data to integrate growth rate dependent biomass equations, generated using a number of different approaches, into a K. phaffii genome‐scale metabolic model. Here, we show that a non‐growth‐associated maintenance value of 0.65  and a growth‐associated maintenance value of 108  lead to accurate growth rate predictions. In line with its role as energy source, metabolism is rewired to increase the yield of ATP per glucose. This includes a reduction of flux through the pentose phosphate pathway, and a greater utilisation of glycolysis and the TCA cycle. Interestingly, we observed activity of an external, non‐proton translocating NADH dehydrogenase in addition to the malate–aspartate shuttle. Regardless of the method used for the generation of biomass equations, a similar, yet different, growth rate dependent rewiring was predicted. As expected, these differences between the different methods were clearer at higher growth rates, where the biomass equation provides a much greater constraint than at slower growth rates. When placed on an increasingly limited glucose diet, the metabolism of K. phaffii adapts, enabling it to continue to drive critical processes sustaining its high viability at near‐zero growth rates.
Transcriptional landscape of the pMP7017 megaplasmid and its impact on the Bifidobacterium breveUCC2003 transcriptome
Authors: Dineen Rebecca L. , Bottacini Francesca , O'Connell‐Motherway Mary , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: January 2024

The 190 kb megaplasmid pMP7017 of Bifidobacterium breve JCM7017 represents the first conjugative and largest plasmid characterised within this genus to date. In the current study, we adopted an integrated approach combining transcriptomics, whole genome comparative analysis and metagenomic data mining to understand the biology of pMP7017 and related megaplasmids, and to assess the impact of plasmid‐carriage on the host strain. The data generated revealed variations within basic features of promoter elements which correlate with a high level of transcription on the plasmid and highlight the transcriptional activity of genes encoding both offensive and defensive adaptations, including a Type IIL restriction‐modification system, an anti‐restriction system and four Type II toxin‐antitoxin systems. Furthermore, a highly transcribed tmRNA, which likely provides translational support to the host strain, was identified, making pMP7017 the first plasmid of the Bifidobacterium genus and the smallest plasmid known to express a tmRNA. Analyses of synteny and variability among pMP7017 and related plasmids indicate substantial diversity in gene organisation and accessory gene cargo highlighting diverse (co‐)evolution and potential host‐specific rearrangements and adaptations. Systematic analysis of the codon usage profile of transcriptionally active pMP7017‐encoded genes suggests that pMP7017 originated from (sub)species of Bifidobacterium longum. Furthermore, mining of metagenomic data suggests the presence of pMP7017‐homologues in ~10% of microbiome samples, mostly infants and/or mothers from various geographical locations. Comparative transcriptome analysis of the B. breve UCC2003 chromosome in the presence or absence of pMP7017 revealed differential expression of genes representing 8% of the total gene pool. Genes involved in genetic information processing were exclusively upregulated, while altered expression of genes involved in biofilm production and polysaccharide biosynthesis was also observed.
Age‐regulated cycling metabolites are relevant for behavior
Authors: Schwarz Jessica E. , Sengupta Arjun , Guevara Camilo , Barber Annika F. , Hsu Cynthia T. , Zhang Shirley L. , Weljie Aalim , Sehgal Amita
Published: January 2024

Circadian cycles of sleep:wake and gene expression change with age in all organisms examined. Metabolism is also under robust circadian regulation, but little is known about how metabolic cycles change with age and whether these contribute to the regulation of behavioral cycles. To address this gap, we compared cycling of metabolites in young and old Drosophila and found major age‐related variations. A significant model separated the young metabolic profiles by circadian timepoint, but could not be defined for the old metabolic profiles due to the greater variation in this dataset. Of the 159 metabolites measured in fly heads, we found 17 that cycle by JTK analysis in young flies and 17 in aged. Only four metabolites overlapped in the two groups, suggesting that cycling metabolites are distinct in young and old animals. Among our top cyclers exclusive to young flies were components of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). As the PPP is important for buffering reactive oxygen species, and overexpression of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), a key component of the PPP, was previously shown to extend lifespan in Drosophila, we asked if this manipulation also affects sleep:wake cycles. We found that overexpression in circadian clock neurons decreases sleep in association with an increase in cellular calcium and mitochondrial oxidation, suggesting that altering PPP activity affects neuronal activity. Our findings elucidate the importance of metabolic regulation in maintaining patterns of neural activity, and thereby sleep:wake cycles.
Sustainability in healthcare: patient and public perspectives
Authors: Knagg R. , Dorey J. , Evans R. , Hitchman J.
Published: January 2024

The sustainable healthcare agenda has become increasingly prominent in recent years. But what does this mean for patients? In this article, we draw on our personal views and experiences as patients, carers and patient advocates, and consider the effects that efforts to improve the sustainability of healthcare may have on care quality and patient experience. We also review the small amount of existing research and policy in this area, with particular focus on documents from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Health Foundation. Based on synthesising these resources with our own experiences, we make recommendations on how to: share information with patients about how they can contribute to healthcare sustainability; offer more sustainable alternatives without pressure; account for diverse patient views on the relevance of sustainable healthcare; provide information about the impact of healthcare on the environment; involve patients and the public in leading positive change; and avoid broadening health inequalities. There is a clear need for more research and engagement to help advance our understanding and weigh up the benefits to individual patients vs. the environmental impacts on the wider population.
The science of climate change and the effect of anaesthetic gas emissions
Authors: Slingo J. M. , Slingo M. E.
Published: January 2024

The dedication of the international anaesthetic community to reducing the environmental impact of healthcare is important and to be celebrated. When this is underpinned by robust science, it has the potential to make a real difference. However, volatile anaesthetic agents have been widely promoted in the medical literature as damaging to the climate, leading to a drive to remove them from clinical practice. This is based on notional ‘CO2‐equivalent’ values created using the simple emission metric known as the global warming potential. Here, we assert that when proper consideration is given to the science of climate change, volatile anaesthetic gas emissions cannot be simply equated to real carbon dioxide emissions, and that their climate impact is vanishingly small. This paper gives anaesthetists a framework to make informed choices founded on climate science and calls for attention to be refocused on the urgent need to reduce the real carbon dioxide emissions associated with healthcare.
Diagnostic adequacy and accuracy of surgeon‐performed ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration in lateral neck masses
Authors: Blom Megan , Magarey Matthew J. R. , Flatman Samuel
Published: January 2024

Background

Surgeon‐performed ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration (SUS‐FNA) reduces the time to diagnosis and treatment of head and neck pathology. Although it has been validated in the investigation of thyroid pathology, there is a paucity of evidence to support its use in lateral neck masses. This study aims to determine the accuracy and adequacy of SUS‐FNA in the investigation of lateral neck masses.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed of patients who underwent a SUS‐FNA for lateral neck mass between June 2018 and October 2022 at a single institution. Pathologist reports were reviewed to determine the rate of FNA sample adequacy. A comparison was made between FNA cytology results and final histopathological diagnosis following surgical excision in a subset of patients to determine FNA accuracy.

Results

A total of 110 SUS‐FNAs were performed on lateral neck masses. Diagnostic adequacy of SUS‐FNA was determined to be 91% (100/110). When analysing the subset of patients who proceeded to surgical excision, the diagnostic accuracy of SUS‐FNA was determined to be 88% (38/43).

Conclusion

SUS‐FNA results in high adequacy rates with good diagnostic accuracy in the investigation of lateral neck masses. This tool has great potential in reducing treatment delay in the management of head and neck cancer.
Branchial CO2 and ammonia excretion in crustaceans: Involvement of an apical Rhesus‐like glycoprotein
Authors: Quijada‐Rodriguez Alex R. , Fehsenfeld Sandra , Marini Anna‐Maria , Wilson Jonathan M. , Nash Mikyla T. , Sachs Maria , Towle David W. , Weihrauch Dirk
Published: January 2024

Aim

To determine whether the crustacean Rh1 protein functions as a dual CO2/ammonia transporter and investigate its role in branchial ammonia excretion and acid–base regulation.

Methods

Sequence analysis of decapod Rh1 proteins was used to determine the conservation of amino acid residues putatively involved in ammonia transport and CO2 binding in human and bacterial Rh proteins. Using the Carcinus maenas Rh1 protein (CmRh1) as a representative of decapod Rh1 proteins, we test the ammonia and CO2 transport capabilities of CmRh1 through heterologous expression in yeast and Xenopus oocytes coupled with site‐directed mutagenesis. Quantitative PCR was used to assess the distribution of CmRh1 mRNA in various tissues. Western blotting was used to assess CmRh1 protein expression changes in response to high environmental ammonia and CO2. Further, immunohistochemistry was used to assess sub‐cellular localization of CmRh1 and a membrane‐bound carbonic anhydrase (CmCAg).

Results

Sequence analysis of decapod Rh proteins revealed high conservation of several amino acid residues putatively involved in conducting ammonia transport and CO2 binding. Expression of CmRh1 in Xenopus oocytes enhanced both ammonia and CO2 transport which was nullified in CmRh1 D180N mutant oocytes. Transport of the ammonia analog methylamine by CmRh1 is dependent on both ionized and un‐ionized ammonia/methylamine species. CmRh1 was co‐localized with CmCAg to the apical membrane of the crustacean gill and only experienced decreased protein expression in the anterior gills when exposed to high environmental ammonia.

Conclusion

CmRh1 is the first identified apical transporter‐mediated route for ammonia and CO2 excretion in the crustacean gill. Our findings shed further light on the potential universality of dual ammonia and CO2 transport capacity of Rhesus glycoproteins in both vertebrates and invertebrates.
From Alzheimer's disease to vascular dementia: Different roads leading to cognitive decline
Authors: Semerano Aurora , Fernández‐Ruiz Javier , Cortes‐Canteli Marta , Moro María A.
Published: January 2024

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue From Alzheimer's Disease to Vascular Dementia: Different Roads Leading to Cognitive Decline. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.6/issuetoc
Moving together or left behind? An examination of rural migrant working mothers' childcare strategies in the cities
Authors: Guo Chunlan , Lin Liyue , Zhu Yu
Published: January 2024

Background

In China, an increasing number of rural mothers participate in urban labour markets, but little is known about their decisions regarding childcare while living in these cities. Why do some rural mothers migrate to the cities with their children, whereas others leave their children behind in the countryside?

Methods

This study analysed 1852 samples from the 2016 China Migrant Dynamic Survey of rural migrant mothers collected in the Pearl River Delta (PRD). These mothers were registered with agricultural hukou outside of the PRD and had at least one child under 18 years of age.

Results

The results indicated that 57.8% of these mothers migrated together with their children. Rural migrant mothers who were self‐employed, had a higher level of household income on a log10 scale and had a longer duration of migration were more willing to adopt closely performing motherhood than rural migrant mothers who were not self‐employed. Additionally, rural working mothers who were intra‐provincial migrants and had a smaller number of children were more likely to bring their children to the cities than rural working mothers who were inter‐provincial migrants.

Conclusions

This study works to strengthen the understanding of rural migrant working mothers' childcare strategies, provide insights for future policy studies and contribute to evidence‐based recommendations for policymakers regarding internal rural‐to‐urban migration, migrant women and the wellbeing of the families of migrants.
Layered closure by endoscopic hand suturing involving the muscle layer for large defect after gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Masunaga Teppei , Yahagi Naohisa , Kato Motohiko
Published: January 2024

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Financial inclusion of Muslim minority in Vellore, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Ishtiyaq Nadeem Vavangani , Waheed Khalid , Fathima M.S Arshiya
Published: January 2024

The study aims to identify the potential determinants of financial inclusion and its impact on the Indian Muslim minority in Tamil Nadu. statistical package for social science and analysis of moment structures software packages were used in the study. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling techniques were applied to examine the collected data (n = 300) from the Vellore district from April 2022 to March 2023. The study reveals that financial awareness, access and quality positively and significantly impact financial inclusion. However, the financial usage dimension is statistically insignificant. Additionally, the results from the moderation effect reveal that financial access and quality, along with age and annual income, significantly influence financial inclusion. In conclusion, the study contributes new dimensions to the existing literature by exploring the financial inclusion of Muslims and suggests implications and future scope for further research.
Soluble mannose receptor: A potential biomarker in Gaucher disease
Authors: Beaton Brendan , Hughes Derralynn A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Soluble mannose receptor (sMR) relates to mannose receptor expression on macrophages, and is elevated in inflammatory disorders. Gaucher disease (GD) has altered macrophage function and utilises mannose receptors for enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) endocytosis. sMR has not previously been studied in GD.

Methods

sMR was measured by ELISA and correlated with GD clinical features including spleen and liver volume, haemoglobin and platelet count, bone marrow burden (BMB) scores and immunoglobulin levels. sMR was compared with biomarkers of GD: chitotriosidase, lyso‐GL1, PARC, CCL3, CCL4, osteoactivin, serum ACE and ferritin.

Results

Median sMR in untreated GD patients was 303.0 ng/mL compared to post‐treatment 190.9 ng/mL (p = .02) and healthy controls 202 ng/mL. Median sMR correlated with median spleen volume 455 mL (r = .70, p = .04), liver volume 2025 mL (r = .64, p = .04), BMB 7 (r = .8, p = .03), IgA 1.9 g/L (r = .54, p = .036), IgG 9.2 g/L (r = .57, p = .027), IgM 1.45 g/L (r = .86, p < .0001), with inverse correlation to median platelet count of 125 × 109/L (r = −.47, p = .08) and haemoglobin of 137 g/L (r = −.77, p = .0008). sMR correlated with established biomarkers: osteoactivin 107.8 ng/mL (r = .58, p = .0006), chitotriosidase 3042 nmol/mL/h (r = .52, p = .0006), PARC 800 ng/mL (r = .67, p = .0068), ferritin 547 μg/L (r = .72, p = .002) and CCL3 50 pg/mL (r = .67, p = .007).

Conclusions

sMR correlates with clinical features and biomarkers of GD and reduces following therapy.
Association of the neonatal Fc receptor promoter variable number of tandem repeat polymorphism with immunoglobulin response in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Fisse Anna Lena , Schäfer Emelie , Hieke Alina , Schröder Maximilian , Klimas Rafael , Brünger Jil , Huckemann Sophie , Grüter Thomas , Sgodzai Melissa , Schneider‐Gold Christiane , Gold Ralf , Nguyen Huu Phuc , Pitarokoili Kalliopi , Motte Jeremias , Arning Larissa
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an autoimmune disease with humoral and cellular autoimmunity causing demyelination of peripheral nerves, commonly treated with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg). The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), encoded by the FCGRT gene, prevents the degradation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) by recycling circulating IgG. A variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphism in the promoter region of the FCGRT gene is associated with different expression levels of mRNA and protein. Thus, patients with genotypes associated with relatively low FcRn expression may show a poorer treatment response to IVIg due to increased IVIg degradation.

Methods

VNTR genotypes were analyzed in 144 patients with CIDP. Patients' clinical data, including neurological scores and treatment data, were collected as part of the Immune‐Mediated Neuropathies Biobank registry.

Results

Most patients (n = 124, 86%) were VNTR 3/3 homozygotes, and 20 patients (14%) were VNTR 2/3 heterozygotes. Both VNTR 3/3 and VNTR 2/3 genotype groups showed no difference in clinical disability and immunoglobulin dosage. However, patients with a VNTR 2 allele were more likely to receive subcutaneous immunoglobulins (SCIg) than patients homozygous for the VNTR 3 allele (25% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.02) and were more likely to receive second‐line therapy (75% vs. 54%, p = 0.05).

Conclusions

The VNTR 2/3 genotype is associated with the administration of SCIg, possibly reflecting a greater benefit from SCIg due to more constant immunoglobulin levels without lower IVIg levels between the treatment circles. Also, the greater need for second‐line treatment in VNTR 2/3 patients could be an indirect sign of a lower response to immunoglobulins.