bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Correlators in
N=4
Supersymmetric Yang-Mills Theory beyond Localization
Authors: Brown Augustus , Heslop Paul , Wen Congkao , Xie Haitian
Published: March 2024

We study integrated correlators of four superconformal primaries Op with arbitrary charges p in N=4 super Yang-Mills theory. The ⟨O2O2OpOp⟩ integrated correlators can be computed by supersymmetric localization, whereas correlators with more general charges are currently not accessible from this method and, in general, contain complicated multiple zeta values. Nevertheless, we observe that, if one sums over the contributions from all different channels in a given correlator, then all the multiple zeta values (and products of ζ’s) cancel, leaving only ζ(2ℓ+1) at ℓ loops. We then propose an exact expression of such integrated correlators in the planar limit, valid for arbitrary ‘t Hooft coupling. The expression matches with the known exact localization-based results for specific charges, as well as with all existing perturbative and strong-coupling results in the literature for more general charges. As an application, our result is used to determine certain seven-loop Feynman integral periods and fix previously unknown coefficients in the correlators at strong coupling.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
TETRIS-ADAPT-VQE: An adaptive algorithm that yields shallower, denser circuit
Ansätze
Authors: Anastasiou Panagiotis G. , Chen Yanzhu , Mayhall Nicholas J. , Barnes Edwin , Economou Sophia E.
Published: March 2024

Adaptive quantum variational algorithms are particularly promising for simulating strongly correlated systems on near-term quantum hardware, but they are not yet viable due, in large part, to the severe coherence time limitations on current devices. In this paper, we introduce an algorithm called TETRIS-ADAPT-VQE (tiling efficient trial circuits with rotations implemented simultaneously adaptive derivative-assembled problem-tailored variational quantum eigensolver), which iteratively builds up variational a few operators at a time in a way dictated by the problem being simulated. This algorithm is a modified version of the ADAPT-VQE algorithm, in which the one-operator-at-a-time rule is lifted to allow for the addition of multiple operators with disjoint supports in each iteration. TETRIS-ADAPT-VQE results in denser but significantly shallower circuits, without increasing the number of controlled- gates or variational parameters. Its advantage over the original algorithm in terms of circuit depths increases with the system size. Moreover, the expensive step of measuring the energy gradient with respect to each candidate unitary at each iteration is performed only a fraction of the time compared with ADAPT-VQE. These improvements bring us closer to the goal of demonstrating a practical quantum advantage on quantum hardware.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Adiabatic Dynamics of Coupled Spins and Phonons in Magnetic Insulators
Authors: Ren Shang , Bonini John , Stengel Massimiliano , Dreyer Cyrus E. , Vanderbilt David
Published: March 2024

In conventional methodologies, phonons are calculated by solving equations of motion involving static interatomic force constants and atomic masses. The Born-Oppenheimer approximation, where all electronic degrees of freedom are assumed to adiabatically follow the nuclear dynamics, is also adopted. This approach does not fully account for the effects of broken time-reversal symmetry in systems with magnetic order. Recent attempts to rectify this involve the inclusion of the velocity dependence of the interatomic forces in the equations of motion, which accounts for time-reversal symmetry breaking, and can result in chiral phonon modes with nonzero angular momentum even at the zone center. However, since the energy ranges of phonons and magnons typically overlap, the spins cannot be treated as adiabatically following the lattice degrees of freedom. Instead, phonon and spins must be treated on a similar footing. Focusing on zone-center modes, we propose a method involving Hessian matrices and Berry curvature tensors in terms of both phonon and spin degrees of freedom, and describe a first-principles methodology for calculating these. We then solve Lagrange’s equations of motion to determine the energies and characters of the mixed excitations, allowing us to quantify, for example, the energy splittings between chiral pairs of phonons in some cases, and the degree of magnetically induced mixing between infrared and Raman modes in others. The approach is general and can be applied to determine the adiabatic dynamics of any mixed set of slow variables.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Breaking the institutional logic or going under - Controllers and sustainability
Authors: Kunz Jennifer , Oltmann Johanna , Weinhart Felix
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The present paper aims to focus on the role which German controllers play so far in the process of sustainable transformation in for-profit organizations, the current obstacles to a wider engagement here and ways to overcome these obstacles.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis combines two qualitative study designs. Empirical data is generated via a job advertisement analysis and an explorative survey with 107 subjects from management accounting/controlling and sustainability management. The generated data is interpreted against the background of the theory of institutional logics and Abbott’s (1988) theory of professional jurisdiction.

Findings

We find that controllers are in a state of tension. On the one hand, the pressure to integrate sustainability into companies is increasing. On the other hand, they seem to be rather reluctant to get involved. The institutional logics that shape their profession play an important role here, as does an unclear relationship with the sustainability department, which has its own claims here. Based on these observations, we identify the core obstacles to the transformation of the controllers’ profession and discuss solutions which can guide the transformation of this profession.

Originality/value

The present paper provides insights from a unique combination of different quantitative study designs and different perspectives on the possible role that controllers can play in advancing sustainable transformation in companies.
Enhancing green service innovation behavior through green involvement: the role of information technology adoption
Authors: Tseng Shu-Mei , Octavyaputri Shervina
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Developing green innovative services is critical to the restaurant industry to achieve significant benefits as well as environmental sustainability. This study aims to explore the mechanisms through which employees’ green involvement can foster green service innovation behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The data set garnered from employees who worked in restaurants was used to test these mechanisms. A partial least square technique was conducted on this data set.

Findings

The results revealed the employees’ green involvement significantly influences their green service innovation intention, which subsequently influences their green service innovation behavior. Furthermore, information technology (IT) adoption was found to fortify the linkage of employee green involvement with green service innovation intention.

Practical implications

The results suggest to the restaurant industry that awareness of green service innovation and IT adoption practices can help restaurants to develop effective sustainability work practices and meet societal expectations.

Originality/value

This study extends the restaurant management literature by linking the green involvement of restaurant employees to green service innovation intention as well as identifying the moderating role of IT adoption underlying this link.
Performance analysis of columnar convex-concave compound microtexture thrust bearing
Authors: Wang Lili , Liu Ying’ao , Duan Jingdong , Bao Yunlong
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to enhance the lubrication performance of thrust bearings. The influence of columnar convex–concave compound microtexture on bearing performance is investigated

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the compound microtexture model of thrust bearings, considering surface roughness and turbulent effect, the variation of lubrication characteristics with the change in the compound microtexture parameters is studied.

Findings

The results indicate that, compared with circular microtexture, the maximum pressure of compound microtexture of thrust bearings increases by 7.42%. Optimal bearing performance is achieved when the internal microtexture depth is 0.02 mm. Turbulent flow states and surface roughness lead to a reduction in the optimal depth. The maximum pressure and load-carrying capacity of the bearing decrease as the initial angle increases, whereas the friction coefficient increases with the increase in the initial angle. The lubrication performance is best for bearings with a circumferential parallel arrangement of microtexture.

Originality/value

The novel composite microtexture with columnar convex-concave is proposed, and the computational model of thrust bearings is set. The influence of surface roughness and turbulent flow on the bearing performance should be considered for better conforming with engineering practice. The effect of microtexture depth, arrangement method and distribution position on the lubrication performance of the compound microtexture thrust bearing is investigated, which is of great significance for improving tribology, thrust bearings and surface microtexture theory.
Collaborative federated learning framework to minimize data transmission for AI-enabled video surveillance
Authors: Sugianto Nehemia , Tjondronegoro Dian , Sorwar Golam
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study proposes a collaborative federated learning (CFL) framework to address personal data transmission and retention issues for artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled video surveillance in public spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines specific challenges for long-term people monitoring in public spaces and defines AI-enabled video surveillance requirements. Based on the requirements, this study proposes a CFL framework to gradually adapt AI models’ knowledge while reducing personal data transmission and retention. The framework uses three different federated learning strategies to rapidly learn from different new data sources while minimizing personal data transmission and retention to a central machine.

Findings

The findings confirm that the proposed CFL framework can help minimize the use of personal data without compromising the AI model's performance. The gradual learning strategies help develop AI-enabled video surveillance that continuously adapts for long-term deployment in public spaces.

Originality/value

This study makes two specific contributions to advance the development of AI-enabled video surveillance in public spaces. First, it examines specific challenges for long-term people monitoring in public spaces and defines AI-enabled video surveillance requirements. Second, it proposes a CFL framework to minimize data transmission and retention for AI-enabled video surveillance. The study provides comprehensive experimental results to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed framework in the context of facial expression recognition (FER) which involves large-scale datasets.
Modelling business performance from marketing practices of architecture firms in Nigeria
Authors: Maina Joy Joshua
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to establish marketing practices which predict business performance of architecture firms within the Nigerian Construction Industry (NCI) to address the sustained poor business performance of firms, which affects allied professionals as many projects in the built environment depend on design proposals from architects.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey responses from 86 firms were used to model business performance measured as total revenue of the firms from 40 commonly deployed marketing practices in construction.

Findings

Two-thirds of the marketing practices most used by architectural firms were ineffective in predicting business performance. The model also explains up to half the variance in business performance (37.4–49.9%), supporting the view that marketing in the CI affects business performance. Researching client needs and competitors emerged as the only significant positive predictor of business performance (β = 0.827, p = 0.043). Using social media (β = −1.247, p = 0.004), regular participation in awards/competitions (β = −1.420, p = 0.013) and inclusion of political offers in bids (β = −1.050, p = 0.016) negatively predicted business performance.

Practical implications

Architecture and allied professional bodies in Nigeria need to rethink existing restrictions regarding marketing based on traditional code of ethics in light of present-day realities of digital and internet business environments. Principals and management of architecture firms require a paradigm shift in deploying the appropriate marketing practices, especially as it relates to research regarding changing client expectations and current competition within the NCI.

Originality/value

The study established marketing practices which model business performance and demonstrate their value in a framework for improving the financial sustainability of architecture firms within the NCI.
Trust in embedding co-design for innovation and change: considering the role of senior leaders and managers
Authors: Bedenik Tina , Kearney Claudine , Ní Shé Éidín
Published: March 2024

Purpose

In this viewpoint article, the authors recognize the increased focus in health systems on co-design for innovation and change. This article explores the role of leaders and mangers in developing and enhancing a culture of trust in their organizations to enable co-design, with the potential to drive innovation and change in healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

Using social science analyses, the authors argue that current co-design literature has limited focus on interactions between senior leaders and managers, and healthcare staff and service users in supporting co-designed innovation and change. The authors draw on social and health science studies of trust to highlight how the value-based co-design process needs to be supported and enhanced. We outline what co-design innovation and change involve in a health system, conceptualize trust and reflect on its importance within the health system, and finally note the role of senior leaders and managers in supporting trust and responsiveness for co-designed innovation and change.

Findings

Healthcare needs leaders and managers to embrace co-design that drives innovation now and in the future through people – leading to better healthcare for society at large. As authors we argue that it is now the time to shift our focus on the role of senior managers and leaders to embed co-design into health and social care structures, through creating and nurturing a culture of trust.

Originality/value

Building public trust in the health system and interpersonal trust within the health system is an ongoing process that relies upon personal behavior of managers and senior leaders, organizational practices within the system, as well as political processes that underpin these practices. By implementing managerial, leadership and individual practices on all levels, senior managers and leaders provide a mechanism to increase both trust and responsiveness for co-design that supports innovation and change in the health system.
Environmental tax, renewable energy and environmental sustainability in Germany: evidence from wavelet and Fourier-based approaches
Authors: Ali Minhaj , Kirikkaleli Dervis
Published: March 2024

Purpose

In order to achieve sustainable development objectives, safeguard the ecosystem, combat global warming and preserve biodiversity for a more sustainable and secure future, the ecological footprint (EF) must be reduced. Therefore, embracing holistic methods, emphasizing renewable energy (RN) and environmental taxes (ET) is crucial. Therefore, the present study aims to capture the effect of ET and RN on EF in Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this aim, the novel Fourier-based Autoregressive Distributive Lag (ADL) cointegration and the time and frequency-based connections among the variables are investigated in this work throughout the 1994–2021 time span using the wavelet analytic methods, including wavelet power spectrum (WPS) and wavelet coherence (WC) methods, respectively.

Findings

The study’s results express that (1) RN, ET and EF are cointegrated in the long run; (2) EF and RN have volatility; (3) RN use in Germany prevents environmental deterioration and (4) ET decreases EF.

Practical implications

The research findings imply that Germany needs rigorous environmental restrictions and enforcement of alternate energy sources for energy use plans and sustainable production objectives.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, the effect of RN and ET on EF in Germany has not been comprehensively explored by using newly developed econometrics techniques and a single dataset. Therefore, the study provides important policy implementations for the German government and is also likely to open debate on the concept.
Enhancing word of mouth in the quick service restaurants: role of perceived brand globalness and localness
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Davood , Rahehagh Atena , Ghiyasi Maryam
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Due to changing consumer thinking patterns and market dynamics, the quick service restaurant (QSR) industry has changed dramatically in the past few years. Considering this, this study aims to examine the influence of perceived brand globalness and perceived brand localness on consumer word of mouth through brand attitude by considering consumer ethnocentrism and perceived brand origin as moderators.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained 750 responses from Turkish consumers through a survey and analyzed the data using the maximum-likelihood estimation technique with structural equation modeling.

Findings

This study discovered that perceived brand globalness and perceived brand localness are critical components that drive brand attitude, influencing consumers' WOM toward global and local QSR brands. Similarly, perceived brand globalness and perceived brand localness are important brand attributes influencing consumer WOM. Importantly, this study found the significant effects of perceived brand origin on brand attitude mainly toward perceived local brands compared to global QSR brands. Although this study did not uncover the influence of consumer ethnocentrism as expected. However, these insights may assist global and local managers to rethink their strategies toward Turkish consumer settings.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted exclusively in Turkey. However, additional studies in other countries, such as the comparative Asian versus European consumers' perspectives, may be considered to generalize the findings.

Practical implications

This study provides recommendations to global and local managers to support them in designing and executing several brand positioning strategies in the QSR industry.

Originality/value

This novel study contributes to the accessibility diagnostic theory and signaling theory by examining consumers' perceptions of local and global brands.
Tourism academia: a Horizon 2050 paper
Authors: Schweinsberg Stephen , Fennell David A.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to chart the history of tourism academia and offer observations as to its future development in the 21st century.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a limited review of the literature and the personal reflections of the authors as its main approaches.

Findings

In reviewing the multi-generational history of tourism academia, it became apparent that whilst we have become a more scientifically rigorous community of scholars, a challenge for the academy going forward will be how best to cultivate a spirit of understanding among different parts of the academy when presented with viewpoints that do not appear to coalesce with one’s understanding of “truth”.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to scholarly debates over the history and future of tourism academia by challenging the academy to reflect critically on its increasing diversity and how to incorporate diverse viewpoints into the tourism knowledge canon.
International exchange on the clinical practice and research of rheumatic skin diseases: A report of the 5th International Conference of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Hasegawa Minoru , Chasset François , Chong Benjamin F. , Fiorentino David F. , Fujimoto Manabu , Nyberg Filippa , Sato Shinichi , Wenzel Joerg , Werth Victoria P.
Published: March 2024

The 5th International Conference of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus was held in Tokyo, Japan on May 9 and 10, 2023. The latest topics on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and scleroderma (systemic sclerosis, morphea) were presented by experts in each field and new developments discussed. In these rheumatic skin diseases, many clinical trials of novel therapies targeting cytokines, signaling molecules, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, B cells, and other molecules are currently underway, and standardization of outcome assessment was discussed. In addition, the selection of the therapeutic agents available for the diversity of each case is becoming more important, together with the ongoing pathophysiological analysis of the diseases. The achievements of this conference will further promote the development of clinical practice and research in rheumatic skin diseases through international exchange among researchers. We hope that by reporting a summary of the conference in this manuscript, we can share its contents with readers.
Declining potential nectar production of the herb layer in temperate forests under global change
Authors: De Schuyter Wim , De Lombaerde Emiel , Depauw Leen , De Smedt Pallieter , Stachurska‐Swakoń Alina , Orczewska Anna , Teleki Balázs , Jaroszewicz Bogdan , Closset Déborah , Máliš František , Mitchell Fraser , Schei Fride Høistad , Peterken George , Decocq Guillaume , Van Calster Hans , Šebesta Jan , Lenoir Jonathan , Brunet Jörg , Reczyńska Kamila , Świerkosz Krzysztof , Diekmann Martin , Kopecký Martin , Chudomelová Markéta , Hermy Martin , Macek Martin , Newman Miles , Wulf Monika , Vild Ondřej , Eriksson Ove , Horchler Peter , Petrik Petr , Pielech Remigiusz , Heinken Thilo , Dirnböck Thomas , Nagel Thomas A. , Durak Tomasz , Standovár Tibor , Naaf Tobias , Schmidt Wolfgang , Baeten Lander , De Frenne Pieter , Bernhardt‐Römermann Markus , Hédl Radim , Waller Don , Verheyen Kris
Published: March 2024

Wild pollinators are crucial for ecosystem functioning and human food production and often rely on floral resources provided by different (semi‐) natural ecosystems for survival. Yet, the role of European forests, and especially the European forest herb layer, as a potential provider of floral resources for pollinators has scarcely been quantified.

In this study, we measured the potential nectar production (PNP) of the forest herb layer using resurvey data across 3326 plots in temperate forests in Europe, with an average time interval of 41 years between both surveys in order to assess (i) the importance of the forest herb layer in providing nectar for wild pollinators, (ii) the intra‐annual variation of PNP, (iii) the overall change in PNP between survey periods and (iv) the change in intra‐annual variation of PNP between survey periods. The PNP estimates nectar availability based on the relative cover of different plant species in the forest herb layer. Although PNP overestimates actual nectar production, relative differences amongst plots provide a valid and informative way to analyse differences across time and space.

Our results show that the forest herb layer has a large potential for providing nectar for wild pollinator communities, which is greatest in spring, with an average PNP of almost 16 g sugar/m2/year. However, this potential has drastically declined (mean plot‐level decline >24%).

Change in light availability, associated with shifts in canopy structure and canopy composition, is the key driver of temporal PNP changes.

Synthesis. Our study shows that if management activities are carefully planned to sustain nectar‐producing plant species for wild pollinators, European forest herb layers and European forests as a whole can play key roles in sustaining wild pollinator populations.
Wolbachia strain wAlbB shows favourable characteristics for dengue control use in Aedes aegypti from Burkina Faso
Authors: Mancini Maria Vittoria , Murdochy Shivan M. , Bilgo Etienne , Ant Thomas H. , Gingell Daniel , Gnambani Edounou Jacques , Failloux Anna‐Bella , Diabate Abdoulaye , Sinkins Steven P.
Published: March 2024

Dengue represents an increasing public health burden worldwide. In Africa, underreporting and misdiagnosis often mask its true epidemiology, and dengue is likely to be both more widespread than reported data suggest and increasing in incidence and distribution. Wolbachia‐based dengue control is underway in Asia and the Americas but has not to date been deployed in Africa. Due to the genetic heterogeneity of African Aedes aegypti populations and the complexity of the host‐symbiont interactions, characterization of key parameters of Wolbachia‐carrying mosquitoes is paramount for determining the potential of the system as a control tool for dengue in Africa. The wAlbB Wolbachia strain was stably introduced into an African Ae. aegypti population by introgression, and showed high intracellular density in whole bodies and different mosquito tissues; high intracellular density was also maintained following larval rearing at high temperatures. No effect on the adult lifespan induced by Wolbachia presence was detected. Moreover, the ability of this strain to strongly inhibit DENV‐2 dissemination and transmission in the host was also demonstrated in the African background. Our findings suggest the potential of harnessing Wolbachia for dengue control for African populations of Ae. aegypti.
Risk factors and a nomogram for predicting cognitive frailty in Chinese patients with lung cancer receiving drug therapy: A single‐center cross‐sectional study
Authors: Li Jinping , Wang Yan , Zhai Minfeng , Qin Mengyuan , Zhao Dandi , Xiang Qian , Shao Zaoyuan , Wang Panrong , Lin Yan , Dong Yiting , Liu Yan
Published: March 2024

Background

To identify independent factors of cognitive frailty (CF) and construct a nomogram to predict cognitive frailty risk in patients with lung cancer receiving drug therapy.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, patients with lung cancer undergoing drug therapy from October 2022 to July 2023 were enrolled. The data collected includes general demographic characteristics, clinical data characteristics and assessment of tools for cognitive frailty and other factors. Logistic regression was harnessed to determine the influencing factors, R software was used to establish a nomogram model to predict the risk of cognitive frailty. The enhanced bootstrap method was employed for internal verification of the model. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by using calibration curves, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and decision curve analysis.

Results

A total of 372 patients were recruited, with a cognitive frailty prevalence of 56.2%. Age, education background, diabetes mellitus, insomnia, sarcopenia, and nutrition status were identified as independent factors. Then, a nomogram model was constructed and patients were classified into high‐ and low‐risk groups with a cutoff value of 0.552. The internal validation results revealed good concordance, calibration and discrimination. The decision curve analysis presented prominent clinical utility.

Conclusions

The prevalence of cognitive frailty was higher in lung cancer patients receiving drug therapy. The nomogram could identify the risk of cognitive frailty intuitively and simply in patients with lung cancer, so as to provide references for early screening and intervention for cognitive frailty at the early phases of drug treatment.
Genomic dissection of brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) resistance in Indica rice genotypes
Authors: Meher Chanchala , Guru‐Pirasanna‐Pandi Govindharaj , Babu Soumya Bharati , Parameswaran Chidambaranathan , Samal Tribikram , Sah Rameswar Prasad , Anilkumar C. , Gadratagi Basana‐Gowda , Rath Prakash Chandra , Sabarinathan S.
Published: March 2024

The population growth and the regular breakout of Nilaparvata lugens pose a significant risk to rice cultivation. Four different N. lugens biotypes have been identified worldwide, with biotype 4 being the most destructive and prevalent throughout Asia, particularly in India. Therefore, a rice variety with multiple resistance genes/alleles is required for effective management of N. lugens. Hence, 191 rice genotypes collected from various parts of India were evaluated for resistance to N. lugens. Further, SSR markers representing 23 different N. lugens resistant (R) genes were assayed to identify genomic regions associated with resistance. The results of the genetic analysis showed that the average genetic diversity value of all markers was 0.165 and polymorphic information content of 0.145 for all the markers used. The population structure and cluster analysis divided the studied genotypes into three distinct groups, with resistant genotypes grouped separately. These findings were confirmed by the principal coordinate analysis, which categorized resistant genotypes, moderately resistant genotypes, and susceptible genotypes into distinct components. Additionally, 90% of the genetic variation was between individuals of populations and 10% between the populations. Marker‐trait association study through mixed linear model and generalized linear model identified six SSR markers such as RM6732 (Bph15), RM314 (Bph6), RM16999 (Bph6), RM7 (QBph3), RM401 (bph4), and RM7102 (Bph1), which were significantly associated with various phenotypic parameters, such as feeding mark, honeydew excretion, percent damage and nymphal survival. The resistant genes identified in these genotypes could help in the marker‐assisted rice variety development with durable resistance against N. lugens.
Ercc1 DNA repair deficiency results in vascular aging characterized by VSMC phenotype switching, ECM remodeling, and an increased stress response
Authors: van der Linden Janette , Stefens Sanne J. M. , Heredia‐Genestar José María , Ridwan Yanto , Brandt Renata M. C. , van Vliet Nicole , de Beer Isa , van Thiel Bibi S. , Steen Herman , Cheng Caroline , Roks Anton J. M. , Danser A. H. Jan , Essers Jeroen , van der Pluijm Ingrid
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular diseases are the number one cause of death globally. The most important determinant of cardiovascular health is a person's age. Aging results in structural changes and functional decline of the cardiovascular system. DNA damage is an important contributor to the aging process, and mice with a DNA repair defect caused by Ercc1 deficiency display hypertension, vascular stiffening, and loss of vasomotor control. To determine the underlying cause, we compared important hallmarks of vascular aging in aortas of both Ercc1Δ/− and age‐matched wildtype mice. Additionally, we investigated vascular aging in 104 week old wildtype mice. Ercc1Δ/− aortas displayed arterial thickening, a loss of cells, and a discontinuous endothelial layer. Aortas of 24 week old Ercc1Δ/− mice showed phenotypical switching of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), characterized by a decrease in contractile markers and a decrease in synthetic markers at the RNA level. As well as an increase in osteogenic markers, microcalcification, and an increase in markers for damage induced stress response. This suggests that Ercc1Δ/− VSMCs undergo a stress‐induced contractile‐to‐osteogenic phenotype switch. Ercc1Δ/− aortas showed increased MMP activity, elastin fragmentation, and proteoglycan deposition, characteristic of vascular aging and indicative of age‐related extracellular matrix remodeling. The 104 week old WT mice showed loss of cells, VSMC dedifferentiation, and senescence. In conclusion, Ercc1Δ/− aortas rapidly display many characteristics of vascular aging, and thus the Ercc1Δ/− mouse is an excellent model to evaluate drugs that prevent vascular aging in a short time span at the functional, histological, and cellular level.
Prospective evaluation of single‐dose aminoglycosides for treatment of complicated cystitis in the emergency department
Authors: Jenrette Jordan E. , Coronato Kyle , Miller Matthew A. , Molina Kyle C. , Quinones Alexander , Jacknin Gabrielle
Published: March 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance among Enterobacterales continues to be a growing problem, particularly in those with urinary infections. Previous studies have demonstrated safety and efficacy with the use of single‐dose aminoglycosides in uncomplicated cystitis. However, data in complicated infections are limited. Single‐dose aminoglycosides may provide a convenient alternative for those with or at risk for resistant pathogens causing complicated urinary infections, especially when oral options are unavailable due to resistance, allergy, intolerance, or interactions with other medications. This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of single‐dose aminoglycosides in treatment of complicated cystitis in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

This was a multicenter, prospective study performed between July 2022 and March 2023 of patients who met criteria for complicated cystitis and were otherwise stable for discharge at an academic ED. Primary outcomes were clinical or microbiologic failure within 14 days of treatment. Safety was assessed by review of adverse events. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results

Thirteen patients were included. Complicating factors were male sex (n = 4), kidney stone (n = 2), urinary catheter (n = 6), recent urologic procedure (n = 1), urinary hardware (n = 1), antibiotic allergy precluding use of alternate oral options (n = 4), immunocompromised status (n = 2), and <1‐year history of multidrug‐resistant organisms on urine culture (n = 8). Eleven patients (85%) had positive urine cultures in the preceding 12 months with no oral antimicrobial option. Eight patients (62%) received amikacin (median dose 15 mg/kg), four patients (31%) received gentamicin (median dose 5 mg/kg), and one patient (8%) received tobramycin (5 mg/kg) for treatment. Ten patients (77%) reported resolved urinary symptoms after treatment and 11 patients (85%) reported no new urinary symptoms since discharge. No patient required hospital admission for treatment failure, and no adverse events were noted.

Conclusions

Single‐dose aminoglycosides appear to be a reasonably effective and safe treatment for complicated cystitis, which avoided hospital admission in this cohort.
Interaction of talus and calcaneus morphometric values and estimation of carcass weight in cattle
Authors: Kartal Mehmet , Üstündağ Yasemin , Mutuş Rifat , Silibolatlaz Baykara Derya , Öztürk Muhsin , Mutlu Zihni
Published: March 2024

In this study, the calcaneus and talus bones of 20 male and female adult Simmental and Angus cattle were used. The age and sex of these animals were recorded before slaughter, and carcass weights were taken after slaughter. Calcaneus and talus morphometric measurements were used to obtain multipliers that allow the estimation of the carcass weight. These multipliers were found to be mean values of 3.346 and 4.642, respectively. Thus, multipliers were obtained that can be used in the evaluation of chronological differences in archaeological cattle size and consequently carcass weight. LSM (Least Square Means) analysis of calcaneus and talus GL values revealed the effect of sex but not of breed. Proportional factors were obtained for calcaneus and talus pairings and associated bone size (GL) estimates.
‘Psychedelics are no magic pill’: the narrative and embodied dimensions of psychedelic integration in Denmark
Authors: Marie Sidsel
Published: March 2024

Within recent years, an increasing number of people and researchers in the Global North have become interested in psychedelic substances and their therapeutic application. While much of the current media attention and research effort mainly concentrate on the therapeutic potential and actions of the individual's acute psychedelic experience, this article explores the user‐perceived, therapeutic dynamics of psychedelics in a more long‐term perspective by charting the lived experiences and practices of ‘integration’ among psychedelic users in Denmark. Based on ethnographic fieldwork from November 2020 to June 2021, I offer a dual typology of self‐related integration as narrative and experiential‐somatic. Combining the two, I argue that psychedelic integration in contemporary Denmark can be viewed as a processual self‐transformation of the users' experiential orientation where understandings and/or modes of being from the acute psychedelic experience are woven into, prolonged, and/or embodied in their everyday existence.
Population pharmacokinetics of vancomycin in term neonates with perinatal asphyxia treated with therapeutic hypothermia
Authors: van der Veer Marlotte A. A. , de Haan Timo R. , Franken Linda G. W. , van Hest Reinier M. , Groenendaal Floris , Dijk Peter H. , de Boode Willem P. , Simons Sinno , Dijkman Koen P. , van Straaten Henrica L. M. , Rijken Monique , Cools Filip , Nuytemans Debbie H. G. M. , van Kaam Anton H. , Bijleveld Yuma A. , Mathôt Ron A. A. ,   for the PharmaCool Study Group
Published: March 2024

Aims

Little is known about the population pharmacokinetics (PPK) of vancomycin in neonates with perinatal asphyxia treated with therapeutic hypothermia (TH). We aimed to describe the PPK of vancomycin and propose an initial dosing regimen for the first 48 h of treatment with pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic target attainment.

Methods

Neonates with perinatal asphyxia treated with TH were included from birth until Day 6 in a multicentre prospective cohort study. A vancomycin PPK model was constructed using nonlinear mixed‐effects modelling. The model was used to evaluate published dosing guidelines with regard to pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic target attainment. The area under the curve/minimal inhibitory concentration ratio of 400–600 mg*h/L was used as target range.

Results

Sixteen patients received vancomycin (median gestational age: 41 [range: 38–42] weeks, postnatal age: 4.4 [2.5–5.5] days, birth weight: 3.5 [2.3–4.7] kg), and 112 vancomycin plasma concentrations were available. Most samples (79%) were collected during the rewarming and normothermic phase, as vancomycin was rarely initiated during the hypothermic phase due to its nonempirical use. An allometrically scaled 1‐compartment model showed the best fit. Vancomycin clearance was 0.17 L/h, lower than literature values for term neonates of 3.5 kg without perinatal asphyxia (range: 0.20–0.32 L/h). Volume of distribution was similar. Published dosing regimens led to overexposure within 24 h of treatment. A loading dose of 10 mg/kg followed by 24 mg/kg/day in 4 doses resulted in target attainment.

Conclusion

Results of this study suggest that vancomycin clearance is reduced in term neonates with perinatal asphyxia treated with TH. Lower dosing regimens should be considered followed by model‐informed precision dosing.
Paliperidone poisoning and measurable plasma concentrations 2.5 years after last administered dose: A case report
Authors: Nersesjan Mariam , Wagner Maria , Dalhoff Kim Peder , Petersen Tonny Studsgaard , Bøgevig Søren , Horwitz Henrik
Published: March 2024

We report a poisoning with paliperidone palmitate, a once‐monthly, long‐acting injectable antipsychotic. The patient suffered from deep sedation and dystonia. She had been treated with extended release intramuscular paliperidone for several years and had received her last injection 8 days prior to admission. The plasma paliperidone was nearly five times higher than the upper reference range. Paliperidone is a substrate of p‐glycoprotein and we therefore aimed to increase its elimination by inducing p‐glycoprotein through treatment with St John's wort. This seemed to have a limited effect on paliperidone clearance. Plasma concentration levels decreased with time as did the dystonia. All antipsychotic treatment was discontinued after this unfortunate event, and the patient did specifically not receive any prescriptions of paliperidone or risperidone. However, the plasma paliperidone concentration was in the low end of the normal therapeutic range 2.5 years after the last dose of paliperidone was administered, and the patient still had some extrapyramidal symptoms.
‘The world was going through what we go through everyday’: The experiences of women with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) living with their partners during the COVID‐19 lockdown in the United Kingdom
Authors: Sehmbi Tarnjit , Wearden Alison , Peters Sarah , Dienes Kimberly
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a long‐term debilitating illness characterised by profound and persistent fatigue (JAMA: The Journal of the American Medical Association, 313, 2015, 1101). The current study aims to explore the experiences of women with ME/CFS living with their partners during the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United Kingdom.

Design

The study adopted a qualitative design comprising semi‐structured interviews with participants. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis (TA).

Methods

Participants were women with ME/CFS (n = 21) recruited through ME/CFS support groups in the United Kingdom. All participants were in romantic relationships and lived with their partners.

Results

Data were organised into three themes: (1) lockdown disrupting routine, (2) reducing difference and (3) fear of getting COVID‐19. People with ME/CFS found that lockdown disrupted their well‐established routines. Although routines were disrupted by partners and increased working‐from‐home practices, participants found having partners at home helpful. People with ME/CFS believed that the changes induced by the pandemic reduced the differences between themselves and the outside world which, prior to lockdown, had felt prominent. They were fearful of getting COVID‐19 as they believed this would make their ME/CFS worse. This meant that for people with ME/CFS, the lifting of the lockdown restrictions was an anxiety‐provoking time, hence impacting symptoms. People with ME/CFS continued to adhere to government guidelines after national restrictions were eased.

Conclusions

This study outlines the experiences of women with ME/CFS during COVID‐19, alongside the long‐term impact this has had due to the changes that the pandemic imposed. These findings may have implications for those with long COVID.
Can agentic messages help? Linguistic strategies to counteract voice‐based sexual orientation discrimination
Authors: Fasoli Fabio , Formanowicz Magdalena
Published: March 2024

Gay men who believe to sound ‘gay’ expect to be discriminated against because of their voices and gay‐sounding men are discriminated against in the hiring process. We examined whether uttering an agency‐based message decreased discrimination expectancy and enactment. In Study 1a (N = 256; gay and bisexual men) and Study 1b (N = 216; gay men), speakers uttered agentic (vs. neutral) messages. We assessed their self‐perception as gay sounding, agency self‐attribution and discrimination expectancy. Uttering agentic (vs. neutral) messages made the speakers self‐perceive as more agentic and this decreased discrimination expectancy. Additionally, self‐perception as gay sounding predicted discrimination expectancy. In Study 2 (N = 466), heterosexual participants listened to gay‐ and straight‐sounding speakers uttering either neutral or agentic messages and rated them in terms of agency and employability. Gay‐sounding speakers uttering agentic messages were less likely to be discriminated against than when uttering neutral messages. Results show the positive impact of linguistic strategies involving agentic messages to reduce discrimination expectancy and hiring biases.
Computational analysis followed by in vitro studies to explore cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6 and IL‐1β) inhibition potential of the new natural molecule polonilignan
Authors: Pal Pragya Paramita , Lakshmi Soukya P. S. , Gupta Suraj , Araya Hiroshi , Fujimoto Yoshinori , Begum Ahil Sajeli
Published: March 2024

Targeting pro‐inflammatory cytokines and their production is found to be of therapeutic benefit for the regulation of inflammation in various chronic autoimmune diseases. Our continued efforts to discover small molecular‐weight pro‐inflammatory cytokine inhibitors resulted in identifying a novel natural lignan molecule named polonilignan, isolated from the culture broth extract of an endophytic fungus Penicillium polonicum. An in silico study (molecular docking, ADME predictions, binding free energy calculation and molecular dynamics simulation) of the polonilignan over the pro‐inflammatory cytokines proteins TNF‐α, IL‐6 and IL‐1β was performed using Schrodinger LLC software to understand the binding interactions, drug‐like properties, and stability of the ligand‐protein complex. Further, in‐vitro testing of inhibition of TNF‐α, IL‐6 and IL‐1β by polonilignan was carried out using ELISA and RT‐PCR on LPS‐induced RAW 264.7 cell lines along with the testing of nitrite production effect (Griess assay) and cytotoxicity (MTT) analysis. Under the computational study, polonilignan revealed good docking scores, binding interactions, and stability under MDS and desirable in silico ADME results over the proteins TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐6. Poloniligan showed significant inhibition of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α with IC50 values of 2.01 μM, 6.59 μM and 42.10 μM, respectively. Also, it reduced the translocation of the NF‐κB subunit p65 to the nucleus (confocal microscopy). The mRNA expression levels of pro‐inflammatory markers IL‐1β, TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels were lowered significantly (p < .001) by the compound, and the diminution was higher with IL‐1β. Further, the lignan was non‐cytotoxic and effective in attenuating nitrite release (IC50 48.56 μM). Thus, polonilignan has been identified as a new pan‐cytokine and NO inhibitor, it is recommended to optimise a method for the synthesis of this small molecular weight lignan and explore its pharmacokinetic characteristics, toxicity and therapeutic effect under various chronic inflammatory disease models.