bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulative synthesis of capsular polysaccharides in the pathogenesis ofStreptococcus suis
Authors: Wang Xingye , Wang Jie , Li Ning , Fan Xin , Wang Beinan
Published: August 2024

Streptococcus suis(S. suis) is an important zoonotic pathogen causing substantial economic losses in the swine industry.S. suisserotype 2 (SS2) is often isolated from the diseased.S. suisexpresses capsular polysaccharide (CPS), a virulence factor crucial for their survival in the blood. However, the role of CPS in the pathogenesis ofS. suisis incomplete. Here, we showed a dynamic regulation of CPS inS. suispathogenesis. In a mouse infection model, an SS2 strain (05ZYH33) was detected in the nasal-associated lymphoid tissue (NALT) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as early as 30 min after intranasal inoculation without bacteremia. Histological analysis revealed that 05ZYH33 in the nasal cavity invaded the olfactory epithelium, resulting in early brain inflammation. Transmission electron microscopy showed that 05ZYH33 isolated from NALT and CSF at early infection time had a thin layer of CPS, and those detected in the blood 5 h post- inoculation showed a much thicker CPS. In addition, adoptive transfer of anti-CPS restricted 05ZYH33 in the blood but not in NALT or CSF. However, an antiserum directed to multiple non-CPS virulence factors (anti-V5) efficiently inhibited 05ZYH33 in NALT, CSF, and blood. Thus, 05ZYH33 colonizes NALT more efficiently without CPS and subsequently invades the meninges through the olfactory nerve system. These findings provide valuable information for the treatment ofS. suisinfection and the development of vaccines across serotypes ofS. suisby targeting CPS-independent immunity.
Diverse somatic Transformer and sex chromosome karyotype pathways regulate gene expression in Drosophila gonad development
Authors: Mahadevaraju Sharvani , Pal Soumitra , Bhaskar Pradeep , McDonald Brennan D. , Benner Leif , Denti Luca , Cozzi Davide , Bonizzoni Paola , Przytycka Teresa M. , Oliver Brian
Published: August 2024

The somatic sex determination genetransformer(tra) is required for the highly sexually dimorphic development of most somatic cells, including those of the gonads. In addition, somatictrais required for the germline development even though it is not required for sex determination within germ cells. Germ cell autonomous gene expression is also necessary for their sex determination. To understand the interplay between these signals, we compared the phenotype and gene expression of larval wild-type gonads and the sex-transformedtragonads. XX larval ovaries transformed into testes were dramatically smaller than wild-type, with significant reductions in germ cell number, likely due to altered geometry of the stem cell niche. Additionally, there was a defect in progression into spermatocyte stages. XY larval testes transformed into ovaries had excessive germ cells, possibly due to the earlier onset of cell division. We suggest that germ cells are neither fully female nor male following somatic sex transformation, with certain pathways characteristic of each sex expressed intramutants. We found multiple patterns of somatic and germline gene expression control exclusively due totra, exclusively due to sex chromosome karyotype, but usually due to a combination of these factors showingtraand sex chromosome karyotype pathways regulate gene expression during Drosophila gonad development.
DNA-PKcs Inhibition Improves Sequential Gene Insertion of the Full-LengthCFTRcDNA in Airway Stem Cells
Authors: Stack Jacob T. , Rayner Rachael E. , Nouri Reza , Suarez Carlos J. , Kim Sun Hee , Kanke Karen L. , Vetter Tatyana A. , Cormet-Boyaka Estelle , Vaidyanathan Sriram
Published: August 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Although many people with CF (pwCF) are treated using CFTR modulators, some are non-responsive due to their genotype or other uncharacterized reasons. Autologous airway stem cell therapies, in which theCFTRcDNA has been replaced, may enable a durable therapy for all pwCF. Previously, CRISPR-Cas9 with two AAVs was used to sequentially insert two halves of theCFTRcDNA and an enrichment cassette into theCFTRlocus. However, the editing efficiency was <10% and required enrichment to restore CFTR function. Further improvement in gene insertion may enhance cell therapy production. To improveCFTRcDNA insertion in human airway basal stem cells (ABCs), we evaluated the use of the small molecules AZD7648 and ART558 which inhibit non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and micro-homology mediated end joining (MMEJ). Adding AZD7648 alone improved gene insertion by 2-3-fold. Adding both ART558 and AZD7648 improved gene insertion but induced toxicity. ABCs edited in the presence of AZD7648 produced differentiated airway epithelial sheets with restored CFTR function after enrichment. Adding AZD7648 did not increase off-target editing. Further studies are necessary to validate if AZD7648 treatment enriches cells with oncogenic mutations.
Optimising the viscoelastic properties of hyaluronic acid hydrogels through colloidal particle interactions: a response surface methodology approach
Authors: Ramanathan Giriprasath , Hassan Masroora , Rochev Yury
Published: August 2024

Enhancing the viscoelastic characteristics of hydrogel systems through strategic colloidal particle interactions is paramount for their functionality in rectal gel applications. This investigation delves into the synergistic interactions between cationic nanoparticles (CNPs), anionic nanoparticles (ANPs), and composite nanoparticles (NPs) within a hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel matrix, employing response surface methodology (RSM) for optimisation. Critical parameters, namely the volume fraction of NPs and oscillatory amplitude, were meticulously calibrated to achieve optimal complex viscosity, as determined by advanced rheometric analysis. The findings reveal substantial effects of CNPs, ANPs, and mixed NPs on the viscoelasticity of the HA hydrogel, with complex viscosity measurements of 490.82 ± 10.57, 214.70 ± 8.96, and 328.46 ± 6.67 mPa·s, respectively. The hydrogel system with mixed NPs exhibited a strong concordance with empirical data (R² = 0.9843), validating the predictive precision of the model. Morphological assessments uncovered a highly interconnected network within the HA gel-particle composite, characterised by both densely and sparsely packed porous architectures. This study presents a robust framework for modulating viscoelastic properties in colloidal particle-gel systems, providing pivotal insights for the development of advanced rectal gel formulations.
EEG-based analysis of intrinsic brain network function in chronic pain: Insights from a comprehensive multi-data set study
Authors: Bott Felix Sebastian , Zebhauser Paul Theo , Hohn Vanessa D. , Turgut Ozgun , May Elisabeth Susanne , Tiemann Laura , Gil Avila Cristina , Heitmann Henrik , Nickel Moritz M. , Day Melissa A. , Adhia Divya B. , Ashar Yoni K. , Wager Tor D. , Granovsky Yelena , Yarnitsky David , Jensen Mark P. , Gross Joachim , Ploner Markus
Published: August 2024

Chronic pain is associated with alterations in brain function. A better understanding of these alterations might help to develop new approaches for the diagnosis, prediction, and treatment of chronic pain. Here, we analyzed associations between chronic pain and alterations of intrinsic brain network function using resting-state electroencephalography. We included data from 537 people with chronic pain obtained from various research groups worldwide. We found strong evidence for associations between pain intensity and intrinsic brain network connectivity, but the replicability of these associations in independent data was mostly low. However, a mega-analysis revealed associations of chronic pain with salience-somatomotor network connectivity at theta frequencies and with more complex patterns of intrinsic brain network connectivity. These findings provide novel insights into brain network function in chronic pain. Moreover, they highlight the need for collaborative multi-center studies, which can be guided by the present approach to promote replicability and consistency of findings.
Fluidification of entangled polymers by loop extrusion
Authors: Conforto Filippo , Gutierrez Fosado Yair , Michieletto Davide
Published: August 2024

Loop extrusion is one of the main processes shaping chromosome organization across the cell cycle, yet its role in regulating deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) entanglement and nucleoplasm viscoelasticity remains overlooked. We simulate entangled solutions of linear polymers under the action of generic loop extruding factors (LEFs) with a model that fully accounts for topological constraints and LEF-DNA uncrossability. We discover that extrusion drives the formation of bottlebrushlike structures which significantly lower the entanglement and effective viscosity of the system through an active fluidification mechanism. Interestingly, this fluidification displays an optimum at one LEF every 300–3000 base pairs. In marked contrast with entangled linear chains, the viscosity of extruded chains scales linearly with polymer length, yielding up to 1000-fold fluidification in our system. Our results illuminate how intrachain loop extrusion contributes to actively modulate genome entanglement and viscoelasticity .

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Extensive Search for Axion Dark Matter over 1 GHz with CAPP’S Main Axion Experiment
Authors: Ahn Saebyeok , Kim JinMyeong , Ivanov Boris I. , Kwon Ohjoon , Byun HeeSu , van Loo Arjan F. , Park SeongTae , Jeong Junu , Lee Soohyung , Kim Jinsu , Kutlu Çağlar , Yi Andrew K. , Nakamura Yasunobu , Oh Seonjeong , Ahn Danho , Bae SungJae , Choi Hyoungsoon , Choi Jihoon , Chong Yonuk , Chung Woohyun , Gkika Violeta , Kim Jihn E. , Kim Younggeun , Ko Byeong Rok , Miceli Lino , Lee Doyu , Lee Jiwon , Lee Ki Woong , Lee MyeongJae , Matlashov Andrei , Parashar Pallavi , Seong Taehyeon , Shin Yun Chang , Uchaikin Sergey V. , Youn SungWoo , Semertzidis Yannis K.
Published: August 2024

We report an extensive high-sensitivity search for axion dark matter above 1 GHz at the Center for Axion and Precision Physics Research (CAPP). The cavity resonant search, exploiting the coupling between axions and photons, explored the frequency (mass) range of 1.025 GHz (4.24  μeV) to 1.185 GHz (4.91  μeV). We have introduced a number of innovations in this field, demonstrating the practical approach of optimizing all the relevant parameters of axion haloscopes, extending presently available technology. The CAPP 12 T magnet with an aperture of 320 mm made of Nb3Sn and NbTi superconductors surrounding a 37 l ultralight-weight copper cavity is expected to convert Dine-Fischler-Srednicki-Zhitnitsky axions into approximately 102 microwave photons per second. A powerful dilution refrigerator, capable of keeping the core system below 40 mK, combined with quantum-noise-limited readout electronics, achieved a total system noise of about 200 mK or below, which corresponds to a background of roughly 4×103 photons per second within the axion bandwidth. The combination of all those improvements provides unprecedented search performance, imposing the most stringent exclusion limits on axion-photon coupling in this frequency range to date. These results also suggest an experimental capability suitable for highly sensitive searches for axion dark matter above 1 GHz.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Role of secondary interactions in a series of 2:1 halogen-bonded cocrystals formed between 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine and ditopic halogen-bond donors
Authors: Bosch Eric , Bowling Nathan P.
Published: August 2024

The structures of a series of 2:1 cocrystals formed between 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine and each of 1,2,4,5-tetrachloro-3,6-diiodobenzene, 2C7H10N2·C6Cl4I2, 1,2,4,5-tetrabromo-3,6-diiodobenzene, 2C7H10N2·C6Br4I2, 1-bromo-4-iodo-2,3,5,6-tetrafluorobenzene, 2C7H10N2·C6BrF4I, and 1,2-dibromo-4,5-difluoro-3,6-diiodobenzene, 2C7H10N2·C6Br2F2I2, are reported. In all five structures, the core halogen-bonded 2:1 trimolecular units have geometrically similar parameters, with the central halogen-bond donor flanked by two pyridine halogen-bond acceptors twisted with respect to the central halogen-bond donor at angles ranging from 76 to 86°. The I...N halogen-bond separations are all short, ranging from 73.3 to 76.7% of the sum of the van der Waals radii, while the C—I...N bond angles are essentially linear. The Br...N halogen-bond separation in the cocrystal formed with 1-bromo-4-iodo-2,3,5,6-tetrafluorobenzene is 80.4% of the sum of the van der Waals radii. Subtle differences in the crystal packings are attributed to the role of secondary C—H...π and weak π-type interactions with chloro and bromo substituents. The cocrystals 2C7H10N2·C6Cl4I2 and 2C7H10N2·C6Br4I2 are isomorphous.
Artificial intelligence has become your co-worker! Exploring changes related to corporate culture and innovation capability
Authors: Chu Chengxiang , Cheng Sihan , Cao Cong
Published: August 2024

Purpose

There is currently a gap in the research regarding the effect of corporate culture on corporate innovation capability. Based on cultural hierarchy theory, in this paper, we explore the interactions between cultural factors and innovation capability in emerging market firms (EMFs). We discuss the mechanisms by which incentive, institutional, and vibrant corporate cultures influence corporate innovation capability. Furthermore, we consider the transformation of artificial general intelligence (AGI) from a tool into a colleague and how this affects the relationship between corporate culture and innovation capability.

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire was distributed to corporate employees to explore their attitudes towards AGI and corporate culture. In total, 523 valid questionnaires were empirically analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling and multigroup analysis (MGA).

Findings

The results showed that incentive culture, institutional culture, and vibrant culture had a positive impact on corporate innovation capability. MGA revealed significant differences between employees who considered AGI a tool and those who considered it a colleague. Employees who treated AGI as a colleague were likely to be influenced by a vibrant culture, whereas employees who treated AGI as a tool were likely to be influenced by an incentive or institutional culture.

Originality/value

Building on cultural hierarchy theory, our study provides a new theoretical framework to enrich current research on the relationship between corporate culture and AGI. The study can help EMF managers adjust incentive and institutional cultures before AGI shifts from being a tool to a colleague and negatively impacts innovation capacity.
The interplay between total quality management (TQM) and organizational learning: similarities or complementarities?
Authors: Tajouri Oumayma , El Manzani Younès , Lakhal Lassaad
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Previous contributions have reported a reciprocal relationship between total quality management (TQM) and organizational learning (OL). This paper aims to provide a clarified understanding of this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis of 15 studies published in academic journals since 2000 was conducted to examine the reciprocal relationship between TQM and OL. The findings of this analysis, along with potential explanations for bidirectional links, are discussed.

Findings

This paper’s main contribution is to explain the interplay between these two management approaches by sorting the practices, behaviors, and values regarding their focus. The findings have identified two foci precisely common focus and complementary focus.

Originality/value

The relationship between TQM and OL has been examined in previous studies. Whereas, this study examines the reciprocal relationship between these approaches. This review presents new insights into the relationship between these approaches.
Does mandating gender quota in corporate boards affect firms’ credit ratings? Evidence from India
Authors: Muricken Navya J. , Bhagawan Praveen , Mukhopadhyay Jyoti Prasad
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of compulsory presence of female members due to gender quota on corporate boards on firms’ credit ratings.

Design/methodology/approach

We investigate the impact of female directorial appointment on a firm’s credit rating using firm-level panel data in a regression framework with industry- and year-fixed effects to account for unobserved heterogeneity. Further, to address endogeneity, we employ the difference-in-differences (DiD) technique by exploiting the changes in the corporate board composition induced by the exogeneous gender quota regulation. We also employ the Oster (2019) approach to test for omitted variable bias.

Findings

In this paper, we find that the firms that appoint female members on corporate boards post-gender quota mandate (treatment firms) enjoy improved credit ratings as compared to firms that had female members on corporate boards before the gender quota mandate (control group firms) became effective. The findings are robust to alternate definitions of credit rating, treatment and post variables.

Originality/value

We employ an alternative econometric technique, such as Oster’s (2019) specification, to show that the involvement of female directors on corporate boards helps firms in improving firm’s credit ratings. We also identify corporate risk measured using stock return volatility and cash flow volatility as the potential channels through which female directors’ involvement on corporate boards leads to the improvement in firms’ credit ratings.
Determining the optimal food hub location in the fresh produce supply chain
Authors: Ge Houtian , Yi Jing , Goetz Stephan J. , Cleary Rebecca , Gómez Miguel I.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Using recent US regional data associated with food system operations, this study aims at building optimization and econometric models to incorporate varying influential factors on food hub location decisions and generate effective facility location solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Mathematical optimization and econometric models have been commonly used to identify hub location decisions, and each is associated with specific strengths to handle uncertainty. This paper develops an optimization model and a hurdle model of the US fresh produce sector to compare the hub location solutions between these two modeling approaches.

Findings

Econometric modeling and mathematical optimization are complementary approaches. While there is a divergence between the results of the optimization model and the econometric model, the optimization solution is largely confirmed by the econometric solution. A combination of the results of the two models might lead to improved decision-making.

Practical implications

This study suggests a future direction in which model development can move forward, for example, to explore and expose how to make the existing modeling techniques easier to use and more accessible to decision-makers.

Social implications

The models and results provide information that is currently limited and is useful to help inform sustainable decisions of various stakeholders interested in the development of regional food systems, regional infrastructure investment and operational strategies for food hubs.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on how the application of complementary modeling approaches improves the effectiveness of facility location solutions. This study offers new perspectives on elaborating key features to encompass facility location issues by applying interdisciplinary approaches.
The impact of digitalization on promoting business during crisis: evidence from Armenian SMEs
Authors: Beglaryan Mane , Drampyan Anush , Sargsyan Parandzem
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the factors that affect the attitudes of Armenian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) regarding digitalization, examining whether they view it as a tool to foster innovation and business growth, while also assessing the extent to which digitalization mitigated the negative impacts of the COVID-19 crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical approach is based on data collected from 452 Armenian SMEs, which were further analyzed using SPSS Statistics 23.0 software. Scales for assessing the COVID-19 impact, innovation and digitalization were constructed and validated. To test five hypotheses, binomial logistic regression was conducted to appraise the importance of digitalization for Armenian SMEs, including the ability to mitigate the consequences of the recent COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

The results of the analysis showed that the economic sector plays a significant role in forming the expectations of firms on the positive impact of digitalization, while the company size does not affect them. This paper found that the provision of online services before the pandemic did not help Armenian SMEs to be less affected by the crisis. Furthermore, the perception of whether digitalization facilitated innovative processes, products and services did not depend on the degree of being affected by COVID-19. Finally, the findings indicate that the more agile companies which had the ability to convert their business model into an e-business model were less affected by the crisis.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by studying the effect of digitalization on SMEs, as well as how SMEs in small developing countries like Armenia mitigated the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The current work is unique as, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, there are no prior empirical studies focusing on impact of digitalization and innovation induced by exogenous shocks in an under-researched country like Armenia.
Impact of balcony geometry on the performance of rubberized concrete structures against progressive collapse
Authors: Alshaikh Ibrahim M.H. , Abadel Aref A. , Nehdi Moncef L. , Hamoda Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Evaluate the performance of progressive collapse of full-scale three-dimensional structure (3D) beam-slab substructures with and without the presence of reinforced concrete (RC) balconies using two concrete mixes [normal concrete (NC) and rubberized concrete (RuC)].

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines two concrete mixes to evaluate the progressive collapse performance of full-scale 3D beam-slab substructures with and without the presence of RC balconies using the finite element (FE) method.

Findings

The results showed that the vertical loads that affect the structures of the specimens after including the balconies in the modeling increased by an average of 29.3% compared with those of the specimens without balconies. The specimens with balconies exhibited higher resistance to progressive collapse in comparison with the specimens without balconies. Moreover, the RuC specimens performed very efficiently during the catenary stage, which significantly enhanced robustness to substantial deformation to delay or mitigate the progressive collapse risk.

Originality/value

All the experimental and numerical studies of the RC beam-slab substructures under progressive collapse scenarios are limited and do not consider the balcony’s presence in the building. Although balconies represent a common feature of multistory residential buildings, their presence in the building has more likely caused the failure of this building compared with a building without balconies. However, balconies are an external extension of RC slabs, which can provide extra resistance through tensile membrane action (TMA) or compressive membrane action (CMA). All those gaps have not been investigated yet.
A qualitative investigation into financial well-being and social capital of retired government school teachers
Authors: Mundi Hardeep Singh , Vashisht Shailja , Rao Manish
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the financial well-being and social capital of Indian retirees. The paper investigates the extent of subjective financial well-being, the dependence on debts and the extent of bridging and bonding social capital of retirees with similar retirement pensions to understand the main issues they face.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 retired government schoolteachers. Two individuals transcribed the interviews after a pilot study, which helped remove repetitive responses. After ensuring the authenticity of the transcripts, the data was analyzed using interpretive phenomenological analysis.

Findings

The study's key findings reveal that retirees, armed with a clear understanding of their retirement income, exhibit a sense of financial control. At the same time, the presence of debt and the potential for high healthcare expenses adversely impact their subjective financial well-being. In terms of social capital, retirees predominantly rely on support from close-knit communities of friends and neighbors, as against their children. Additionally, retirees who migrate from their native places encounter challenges in establishing bridging social capital.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on financial well-being, specifically within the context of vulnerable groups such as retirees in India, where the absence of a state-supported retirement system adds a distinctive dimension. Against the backdrop of India's traditional societal framework, the research extends the existing literature by delving into the nuanced effects of evolving social dynamics on the social capital of retirees.
Forever I am yours: the interrelationship between service brand love, psychological contracts and customer switching barriers in the banking industry
Authors: Mnong'one Caroline , Kowero Furaha , Amani David
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of dimensions of the psychological contract on strengthening customers' switching barriers through the mediating role of service brand love.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional survey research design to collect data from 406 respondents from commercial banks in the banking industry. A quantitative approach using structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data collected through structured questionnaires.

Findings

The findings revealed that dimensions of the psychological contract, namely, ideological, transactional and relational psychological contract, significantly influence the strengthening of customers' switching barriers when mediated by service brand love.

Practical implications

Managers should consider adopting high-intensity relationship approaches that go beyond mere customer satisfaction to ensure customer retention.

Originality/value

While customer retention remains the primary avenue for establishing competitive advantages, there remain unresolved issues regarding what determines customers’ intentions to stay or switch. This study represents one of the initial endeavors to explore the psychological contract within the context of the service industry. It contributes to the existing knowledge by enhancing the understanding of the mechanisms that can impact customers' switching barriers and complements the literature on customer retention in the service domain.
Integrated management systems: a content and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Chountalas Panos T. , Lagodimos Athanasios G.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Significant interest in Integrated Management Systems (IMS), as a key area within ISO-related Management System Standards (MSS) literature, has been evident from both academia and industry over the past three decades. This study aims to map the evolution and current state of IMS research and propose possible directions for future studies.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive content and bibliometric analysis of 846 documents from the Scopus database across the period 1995 to 2023 was conducted. This included performance analysis to track publication trends and identify key contributors, and content analysis to specify dominant research methodologies and the MSS most commonly integrated. Furthermore, science mapping techniques—such as co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrence analysis, and bibliographic coupling—were utilized to outline the collaborative networks and the conceptual and intellectual structure of the field.

Findings

The study identifies three principal IMS research themes: the practical implementation of IMS, their role in promoting sustainability and social responsibility, and their impact on continuous performance improvement. It also highlights the field’s evolution and key research constituents—including influential works, prolific authors, leading academic institutions and countries, and top publishing journals. It further reveals that IMS research exhibits strong collaboration across authors and countries, and a rich methodological plurality, notably with a marked increase in empirical surveys in recent years. Additionally, it identifies the most frequently referenced MSS for integration, prominently featuring ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001/OHSAS 18001.

Originality/value

This study is original in its application of a dual analytical approach—bibliometric and content analysis—to provide a holistic overview of IMS research. It offers new insights into the integration of diverse MSS and proposes several promising paths for future research. Among the most prominent are standardizing IMS fundamental specifications, conducting more empirical research with advanced methods to evaluate the effects of MSS integration, providing practical support for organizations in IMS implementation through tailored methodologies and tools, and exploring the potential of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies to advance IMS practices.
How signature strengths develop positive interdependence and empowerment in an inclusive education context
Authors: Bressoud Nicolas , Samson Andrea Christiane , Gay Philippe , Garbaliauskaite ‐ Plagnol Gabija , Audrin Catherine , Lucciarini Elena , Shankland Rebecca
Published: August 2024

This study evaluates the Individual Strengths, Collective Power! program in fostering students' use of strengths vocabulary and improving classroom relationships in an inclusive education setting in Switzerland, where students with and without special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) attend school together. The study involved 179 students, ages 8 to 12, divided into an experimental group that received specific training and an active control group that had access to program resources, regardless of their SEND status. The study used the Strengths Use Scale (SUS) and the Gratitude Questionnaire to measure students' awareness of their strengths and gratitude. In addition, a sociometric measure, the Peer Acceptance Index (PAI), was developed to assess classroom dynamics. Results indicate that strengths‐based interventions significantly expanded students' vocabulary of strengths and increased positive discourse, particularly among girls. Time and age were the main predictors of positive peer commentary, rather than the interventions themselves, which had no significant effect on PAI scores. The study suggests that strengths‐based tools, even without guided use, can positively influence students' language about strengths, although they did not change classroom relationships within the 9‐week period. Further research is recommended to explore the specific effects and mechanisms of strengths‐based interventions in inclusive settings.
Prevalence of fentanyl in the pediatric postmortem population from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Peterson Brianna L. , Midthun Kari M.
Published: August 2024

For the past decade, illicitly manufactured fentanyl has been a primary contributor in drug overdose deaths regardless of age. The pediatric population is particularly vulnerable to fentanyl exposure, yet there are limited case reports involving this population. Postmortem cases from 2019 to 2023 were retrospectively analyzed to determine the prevalence of fentanyl in decedents between 0 and 12 years of age. Over this time frame, the fentanyl positivity rate increased from 2.6 to 6.2% (n = 632). The most commonly reported age group was 0–4 years, with a peak around 1 year of age for toddlers. Fentanyl concentrations in blood (n = 573) ranged from 0.19 to 360 ng/mL (mean 18 ng/mL, median 6.9 ng/mL). Polydrug use was present in 428 cases; midazolam (n = 96) and methamphetamine (n = 66) were the most common drugs found concurrently in blood with fentanyl, followed by markers of illicitly manufactured fentanyl, such as xylazine (n = 23), para‐fluorofentanyl (n = 18), and acetyl fentanyl (n = 17). This report contrasts the differences in postmortem pediatric fentanyl toxicology results for three groups of case histories: likely medical intervention (n = 113), pregnancy/birth related (n = 136), and inadvertent/intentional exposure (n = 196). Overall, this study provides a retrospective review of postmortem pediatric fentanyl concentrations in a variety of biological matrices and highlights the need for comprehensive toxicology testing in postmortem pediatric casework.
Integration of ssGWAS and ROH analyses for uncovering genetic variants associated with reproduction traits in Large White pigs
Authors: Zhang Zhenyang , Zhao Wei , Wang Zhen , Pan Yuchun , Wang Qishan , Zhang Zhe
Published: August 2024

The low heritability of reproduction traits such as total number born (TNB), number born alive (NBA) and adjusted litter weight until 21 days at weaning (ALW) poses a challenge for genetic improvement. In this study, we aimed to identify genetic variants that influence these traits and evaluate the accuracy of genomic selection (GS) using these variants as genomic features. We performed single‐step genome‐wide association studies (ssGWAS) on 17 823 Large White (LW) pigs, of which 2770 were genotyped by 50K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chips. Additionally, we analyzed runs of homozygosity (ROH) in the population and tested their effects on the traits. The genomic feature best linear unbiased prediction (GFBLUP) was then carried out in an independent population of 350 LW pigs using identified trait‐related SNP subsets as genomic features. As a result, our findings identified five, one and four SNP windows that explaining more than 1% of genetic variance for ALW, TNB, and NBA, respectively and discovered 358 hotspots and nine ROH islands. The ROH SSC1:21814570–27186456 and SSC11:7220366–14276394 were found to be significantly associated with ALW and NBA, respectively. We assessed the genomic estimated breeding value accuracy through 20 replicates of five‐fold cross‐validation. Our findings demonstrate that GFBLUP, incorporating SNPs located in effective ROH (p‐value < 0.05) as genomic features, might enhance GS accuracy for ALW compared with GBLUP. Additionally, using SNPs explaining more than 0.1% of the genetic variance in ssGWAS for NBA as genomic features might improve the GS accuracy, too. However, it is important to note that the incorporation of inappropriate genomic features can significantly reduce GS accuracy. In conclusion, our findings provide valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms of reproductive traits in pigs and suggest that the ssGWAS and ROH have the potential to enhance the accuracy of GS for reproductive traits in LW pigs.
The effect of 30 min of supine rest on plasma renin concentrations in paediatric patients
Authors: Al‐Zoubaidi D. F. , Johannsen T. H. , Jørgensen N. R. , Main K. M.
Published: August 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to interpret plasma renin concentrations (PRCs) correctly in a clinical setting, it is essential to understand to what extent physical activity influences the concentration. Reference values for different postural positions exist for adults, but data for children are sparse. In this study, the effect of 30 min of rest on plasma renin concentrations in paediatric patients was examined.

Methods

In total, 41 paediatric patients, undergoing either arginine or clonidine provocation tests for growth hormone deficiency, were included. For each stimulation test, two blood samples were drawn. One at time 0 min and one after 30 min of rest. In total, renin concentrations were determined in 86 serum samples.

Results

Renin concentrations decreased from 0 to 30 min with a median value of −20.5% (inter‐quartile range: −33.0% to −12.8%). This decrease was not dependent on sex, age, medication or comorbidity, and the variance of renin did not differ between 0 and 30 min.

Conclusion

Renin concentrations in children differ according to postural position, which is comparable to adults. Thus, the clinical interpretation of renin results needs to consider the preanalytical conditions applied in the local reference population.
Global viewpoints: proposals for the development of endourology in resource‐limited countries in Africa
Authors: Nedjim Saleh Abdelkerim , Ziba Ouima Justin Dieudonné , Kifle Anteneh Tadesse , Khalid Abdullahi , Muhawenimana Emmanuel , Ngwa‐Ebogo Tagang Titus , Gebreselassie Kaleab Habtemichael , Biyouma Marcella D. C. , Kalli Moussa , Mahamat Mahamat Ali , Salissou Mahamane , Rimtebaye Kimassoum , Ouchemi Choua , Niang Lamine , Honoré Berthé , Coulibaly Noel , Ndow James , Lazarus John , Ndoye Alain Khassim , Lezrek Mohamed , Aboutaieb Rachid
Published: August 2024

Endourology plays an important role in modern urological practice. Compared to open surgery, it offers many advantages. In Africa, endourology is not widely practiced or non‐existent in some referral centres. Several factors have been linked to this challenge. This article explores and proposes strategies to improve endourology practice in the African context. Recognising the unique challenges and opportunities in the region, the document discusses key initiatives and recommendations to promote the growth and development of endourological practices, including the identification of local needs, training, technological adaptation, etc. It aims to provide valuable information on the advancement of endourology in Africa.
Montelukast use in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of maternal and fetal outcomes in asthma treatment
Authors: Fareed Areeba , Siblini Dima , Vaid Rayyan , Farhat Hadi , Rida Ahmad , Moradeyo Abdulrahmon , Khan Muhammad Ahsan
Published: August 2024

This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated the safety of montelukast in treating asthma during pregnancy, focusing on maternal and fetal outcomes such as congenital anomalies (CA), preterm delivery, low birthweight, spontaneous abortion, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preeclampsia. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception until April 30, 2024. The eligible studies assessed the safety of montelukast for asthma treatment during pregnancy. The review suggests that montelukast use during pregnancy may not significantly increase the risk of major CA. The pooled results yielded risk ratio (RR) for CA was 1.13 [95% CI (0.74, 1.73), p = 0.56, I2 = 0%]. Montelukast may be associated with preterm delivery and a low birthweight odds ratio (OR) of 1.82 [95% CI (1.35, 2.45), p < 0.001, I2 = 0%]. No significant risks were found concerning neurodevelopmental outcomes. The associations with spontaneous abortion were inconclusive [OR = 1.03, 95% CI (0.72, 1.5), p = 0.86, I2 = 73%], highlighting the need for further research. This comprehensive review underscores the importance of further investigating the safety profile of montelukast during pregnancy. While the overall findings indicate a relatively favorable safety profile, especially regarding major CA, careful consideration is needed for the potential risks of preterm delivery and low birthweight.
Natural compounds from herbs and nutraceuticals as glycogen synthase kinase‐3β inhibitors in Alzheimer's disease treatment
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Yuan Ye , Li Shuang , Wang Xiaofeng , Yang Xue
Published: August 2024

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis is complex. The pathophysiology is not fully understood, and safe and effective treatments are needed. Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK‐3β) mediates AD progression through several signaling pathways. Recently, several studies have found that various natural compounds from herbs and nutraceuticals can significantly improve AD symptoms.

Aims

This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the potential neuroprotective impacts of natural compounds as inhibitors of GSK‐3β in the treatment of AD.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search on PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, focusing on in vitro and in vivo studies that investigated natural compounds as inhibitors of GSK‐3β in the treatment of AD.

Results

The mechanism may be related to GSK‐3β activation inhibition to regulate amyloid beta production, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, cell apoptosis, and cellular inflammation. By reviewing recent studies on GSK‐3β inhibition in phytochemicals and AD intervention, flavonoids including oxyphylla A, quercetin, morin, icariin, linarin, genipin, and isoorientin were reported as potent GSK‐3β inhibitors for AD treatment. Polyphenols such as schisandrin B, magnolol, and dieckol have inhibitory effects on GSK‐3β in AD models, including in vivo models. Sulforaphene, ginsenoside Rd, gypenoside XVII, falcarindiol, epibrassinolides, 1,8‐Cineole, and andrographolide are promising GSK‐3β inhibitors.

Conclusions

Natural compounds from herbs and nutraceuticals are potential candidates for AD treatment. They may qualify as derivatives for development as promising compounds that provide enhanced pharmacological characteristics.
Presentation and management of marantic endocarditis: A case series
Authors: Patil Ricky , Yongue Camille , James Les , Zhou Fang , Saric Muhamed , Vaynblat Mikhail
Published: August 2024

Marantic endocarditis is defined as a sterile endocarditis that is rarely encountered in clinical practice. This case series illustrates five cases of marantic endocarditis. All cases were diagnosed on trans thoracic echocardiography and verified on transesophageal echocardiography. The first three cases occur in the setting of antiphospholipid syndrome; the last two occur in the setting of advanced malignancy. Two cases were treated successfully with anticoagulation, while two others required valvular surgery. One case resulted in mortality. The treatment course of these five patients mirrors certain patterns described in the literature.
Fatigue life improvement by shot peening for pre‐fatigue tested carburized steel
Authors: Fujino Masashi , Tsuji Toshiya , Takahashi Koji
Published: August 2024

The effect of shot peening (SP) on pre‐fatigue tested carburized steel was investigated. Plane‐bending fatigue tests were conducted on carburized CrMo steel that was pre‐fatigue tested and treated with SP. Fatigue cracks were induced by pre‐fatigue tests with a stress amplitude of σa = 1000 MPa, and the number of the pre‐fatigue test cycles was 2.0 × 104 (L5 test) and 4.0 × 104 (L15 test). We compared the fatigue lives of the fatigue‐damaged and smooth specimens without fatigue damage treated with the same SP. The fatigue life of the L5 tested specimens with SP was longer than that of the non‐fatigue damaged smooth specimens after SP. Therefore, the fatigue cracks introduced by the L5 test can be rendered harmless by SP. Furthermore, near‐surface material properties were evaluated and the mechanisms of rendering surface cracks harmless were investigated.
Effects of peer familiarity on Chinese English learners’ L2 learning in collaborative writing
Authors: Liu Jiaxin , Ding Feng , Niu Ruiying
Published: August 2024

In second language education, the pairing of students for interaction, particularly based on peer familiarity, has garnered considerable attention from researchers. Despite this focus, studies examining the impact of peer familiarity on language learning during peer interactions have produced varied results, with limited exploration in the context of collaborative writing tasks. This study seeks to investigate the effects of peer familiarity on Chinese English learners’ language learning in collaborative writing. Two groups of participants were recruited, including five familiar pairs and five unfamiliar pairs. Their interactive dialogues throughout the collaborative writing process were recorded; transcribed; and then analyzed for the number, type, and outcome of language‐related episodes (LREs). Our findings revealed that the familiar pairs exhibited a significantly higher production of LREs and a greater success rate in solving these episodes compared to the unfamiliar pairs. Furthermore, all participants demonstrated a higher retention rate for successfully solved LREs compared to unsolved ones, although no significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of language learning retention. The findings offer pedagogical implications for student grouping in collaborative work.
Co‐digestion of xanthan gum/Lactobacillus plantarum 75‐coated cantaloupes with Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa) fruits or beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) leaves on the bioaccessibility of anthocyanins and carotenoid components
Authors: Chikhala Tshudufhadzo , Seke Faith , Mianda Sephora Mutombo , Slabbert Retha , Sivakumar Dharini
Published: August 2024

Co‐digestion of cantaloupe (C) melon fresh cuts (FC) coated with probiotics [Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 75/xanthan gum with Natal plum (NP)] or beetroot leaves (BL) was evaluated to determine their bioaccessibility of individual anthocyanins (cyanidin‐3‐glucoside, cyanidin‐3‐O‐sambubioside) and carotenoids (lutein, trans‐β‐carotene and cis‐β‐carotene). Co‐digestion of probiotic‐coated C‐melon‐FC with NP increased the percentage (%) bioaccessibility of cyanidin‐3‐glucoside (11.18%) and cyanidin‐3‐O‐sambubioside (8.89%) compared to single digestion of Natal plum. Bioaccessibility of lutein (18.2%), trans‐β‐carotene (36.92%) and cis‐β‐carotene (16.74%) increased when co‐digestion of probiotic‐coated C‐melon‐FC with BL compared to the single digestion of uncoated C‐melon. Co‐digestion of C‐melon‐FC‐L75 with BL showed the highest antioxidant activity. L. plantarum had the highest LAB survival at the intestinal phase (6.01–6.26 Log CFU mL−1) during single and co‐digestion showing probiotic potential. C‐melon‐FC‐L75, Natal plum and beetroot leaves could be recommended as functional ingredients in meal preparation.
Multiple acyl‐Coa dehydrogenase deficiency: an underdiagnosed disorder in adults
Authors: Meier Ciselle , Burns Kharis , Manolikos Catherine , Hodge Samantha , Bell Damon A.
Published: August 2024

Inherited metabolic diseases, as a first presentation in adults, are an under‐recognised condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis is challenging because of non‐specific clinical and biochemical findings, resemblance to common conditions such as neuropsychiatric disorders and the misconception that these disorders predominantly affect paediatric populations. We describe a series of patients with multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD)/MADD‐like disorders to highlight these diagnostic challenges.