bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the G-quadruplex-binding drugs Quarfloxin and CX-5461 on the malaria parasitePlasmodium falciparum
Authors: Craven Holly M. , Nettesheim Guilherme , Cicuta Pietro , Blagborough Andrew M. , Merrick Catherine J.
Published: July 2023

Plasmodium falciparumis the deadliest causative agent of human malaria. This parasite has historically developed resistance to many drugs, including the current frontline treatments, so new therapeutic targets are needed. Our previous work on guanine quadruplexes (G4s) in the parasite’s DNA and RNA has highlighted their influence on parasite biology, and revealed G4 stabilising compounds as promising candidates for drug repositioning. In particular, quarfloxin, a former anticancer agent, kills blood-stage parasites at all developmental stages, with fast rates of kill and nanomolar potency. Here we explored the molecular mechanism of quarfloxin and its related derivative CX-5461.In vitro,both compounds bound toP. falciparum-encoded G4 sequences.In cellulo, quarfloxin was more potent than CX-5461, and could prevent establishment of blood-stage malariain vivoin a murine model. CX-5461 showed clear DNA damaging activity, as reported in human cells, while quarfloxin caused weaker signatures of DNA damage. Both compounds caused transcriptional dysregulation in the parasite, but the affected genes were largely different, again suggesting different modes of action. Therefore, CX-5461 may act primarily as a DNA damaging agent in bothPlasmodiumparasites and mammalian cells, whereas the complete antimalarial mode of action of quarfloxin may be parasite-specific and remains somewhat elusive.
Efficacy of aPseudomonas aeruginosaSerogroup O9 Vaccine
Authors: Moustafa Dina A. , DiGiandomenico Antonio , Raghuram Vishnu , Schulman Marc , Scarff Jennifer M. , Davis Michael R. , Varga John J. , Dean Charles R. , Goldberg Joanna B.
Published: July 2023

There are currently no approved vaccines against the opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosa. Among vaccine targets, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O antigen ofP. aeruginosais the most immunodominant protective candidate. There are twenty different O antigens composed of different repeat sugars structures conferring serogroup specificity, and ten are found most frequently in infection. Thus, one approach to combat infection byP. aeruginosacould be to generate immunity with a vaccine cocktail that includes all these serogroups. Serogroup O9 is one of the ten serogroups commonly found in infection, but it has never been developed into a vaccine, likely due, in part, to the acid labile nature of the O9 polysaccharide. Our laboratory has previously shown that intranasal administration of an attenuatedSalmonellastrain expressing theP. aeruginosaserogroup O11 LPS O antigen was effective in clearing and preventing mortality in mice following intranasal challenge with serogroup O11P. aeruginosa. Consequently, we set out to develop aP.aeruginosaserogroup O9 vaccine using a similar approach. Here we show thatSalmonellaexpressing serogroup O9 triggered an antibody-mediated immune response following intranasal administration to mice and that it conferred protection fromP. aeruginosaserogroup O9 in a murine model of acute pneumonia.
TW68, Cryptochromes stabilizer, regulates fasting blood glucose level inob/oband fat-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Surme Saliha , Ergun Cagla , Gul Seref , Akyel Yasemin Kubra , Gul Zeynep Melis , Ozcan Onur , Ipek Ozgecan Savlug , Akarlar Busra Aytul , Ozlu Nurhan , Taskin Ali Cihan , Turkay Metin , Gören Ahmet Ceyhan , Baris Ibrahim , Ozturk Nuri , Guzel Mustafa , Aydin Cihan , Okyar Alper , Kavakli Ibrahim Halil
Published: July 2023

Cryptochromes (CRYs), transcriptional repressors of the circadian clock in mammals, inhibit cAMP production when glucagon activates G-protein coupled receptors. Therefore, molecules that modulate CRYs have the potential to regulate gluconeogenesis. In this study, we discovered a new molecule called TW68 that interacts with the primary pockets of mammalian CRY1/2, leading to reduced ubiquitination levels and increased stability. In cell-based circadian rhythm assays using U2OS:Bmal1-dLuccells, TW68 extended the period length of the circadian rhythm. Additionally, TW68 decreased the transcriptional levels of two genes,Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1(PCK1) andGlucose-6-phosphatase(G6PC), which play crucial roles in glucose biosynthesis during glucagon-induced gluconeogenesis in HepG2 cells. Oral administration of TW68 in mice showed good tolerance, a good pharmacokinetic profile, and remarkable bioavailability. Finally, when administered to fastingob/oband fat-induced diabetic animals, TW68 reduced blood glucose levels by enhancing CRY stabilization and subsequently decreasing the transcriptional levels ofPck1andG6pc. These findings collectively demonstrate the antidiabetic efficacy of TW68in vivo, suggesting its therapeutic potential for controlling fasting glucose levels in the treatment of type 2diabetes mellitus.
Paranannizziopsisspp. associated with skin lesions in wild snakes in North America and development of a real-time PCR assay for rapid detection of the fungus in clinical samples
Authors: Lorch Jeffrey M. , Winzeler Megan E. , Lankton Julia S. , Raverty Stephen , Snyman Heindrich N. , Schwantje Helen , Thacker Caeley , Knowles Susan , Cai Hugh Y. , Grear Daniel A.
Published: July 2023

The emergence of ophidiomycosis (or snake fungal disease) in snakes has prompted increased awareness of the potential effects of fungal infections on wild reptile populations. Yet, aside fromOphidiomyces ophidiicola, little is known about other mycoses affecting wild reptiles. The closely related genusParanannizziopsishas been associated with dermatomycosis in snakes and tuataras in captive collections, andP. australasiensiswas recently identified as the cause of skin infections in non-native wild panther chameleons (Furcifer pardalis) in Florida, USA. Here we describe five cases ofParanannizziopsisspp. associated with skin lesions in wild snakes in North America and one additional case from a captive snake from Connecticut, USA. In addition to demonstrating that wild Nearctic snakes can serve as a host for these fungi, we also provide evidence that the genusParanannizziopsisis widespread in wild snakes, with cases being identified in Louisiana (USA), Minnesota (USA), Virginia (USA), and British Columbia (Canada). Phylogenetic analyses conducted on multiple loci of the fungal strains we isolated identifiedP. australasiensisin Louisiana and Virginia; the remaining strains from Minnesota and British Columbia did not cluster with any of the described species ofParanannizziopsis, although the strains from British Columbia appear to represent a single lineage. Finally, we designed a pan-Paranannizziopsisreal-time PCR assay targeting the internal transcribed spacer region 2. This assay successfully detected DNA of all described species ofParanannizziopsisand the two potentially novel taxa isolated in this study and did not cross-react with closely related fungi or other fungi commonly found on the skin of snakes. The assay was 100% sensitive and specific when screening clinical (skin tissue or skin swab) samples, although full determination of the assay’s performance will require additional follow up due to the small number of clinical samples (n=14 from 11 snakes) available for testing in our study. Nonetheless, the PCR assay can provide an important tool in further investigating the prevalence, distribution, and host range ofParanannizziopsisspp. and facilitate more rapid diagnosis ofParanannizziopsisspp. infections that are otherwise difficult to differentiate from other dermatomycoses.
Serpine1 negatively regulates Th1 cell responses in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Akbar Irshad , Tang Ruihan , Baillargeon Joanie , Roy Andrée-Pascale , Doss Prenitha Mercy Ignatius Arokia , Zhu Chen , Kuchroo Vijay K. , Rangachari Manu
Published: July 2023

Th1 cells are critical in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Serpine1 has been posited as an inhibitor of IFNγfrom T cells though its role in autoimmunity remains unclear. Here, we show that Serpine1 knockout (KO) mice develop EAE of enhanced severity relative to wild-type (WT) controls. Serpine1 overexpression represses Th1 cell cytokine production and pathogenicity, while Serpine1-KO:2D2 Th1 cells transfer EAE of increased severity in comparison to WT 2D2 Th1 cells. Notably, polarized Serpine1-KO Th1 cells display delayed expression of the Th1-specific inhibitory receptor, Tim-3. Serpine1-KO:Tim-3-Tg Th1 cells, which transgenically over-express Tim-3, showed increased expression of IFNγand reduced expression of the checkpoint molecules Lag-3 and PD-1 relative to WT Tim-3-Tg counterparts. Further, Serpine1 deficiency restored the EAE phenotype of Tim-3-Tg mice that normally develop mild disease. Together, we identify Serpine1 as a negative regulator of Th1 cells.

Key points

Serpine1 inhibits EAE in a T cell-dependent manner.

Serpine1 is upregulated in Th1 cells and inhibits their pathogenicity.

Serpine1 promotes expression and function of Th1-specific inhibitory receptor Tim-3.
An Engineered 3D Co-culture Model of Primary Macrophages and Patient-Derived Tumour Cells to Explore Cellular Responses in the Graded Hypoxic Microenvironment of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Co Ileana L. , Yu Chengxin , Lamorte Sara , Ciudad M. Teresa , Landon-Brace Natalie , Cadavid Jose L. , Xia Ziting , Fomina Aleksandra , Nurse Michelle , McGaha Tracy L. , Campbell Kieran R. , McGuigan Alison P.
Published: July 2023

In pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), tumour associated macrophages (TAMs) are a heterogeneous immune cell population that interact with cancer cells to promote malignancy, chemo-resistance, and immunosuppression. Aside from TAMs, hypoxia is a prominent feature of PDAC that can rewire cells to survive and enhance malignancy in the tumour microenvironment (TME). Deciphering the interactions between macrophages, cancer cells and hypoxia could lead to the development of effective immune-targeted therapies for PDAC. However, there are only a few models that physiologically recapitulate the PDAC TME and allow for meaningful interrogation of cancer-immune cell interactions in hypoxia. Here, we develop a model of primary macrophages and PDAC patient organoid-derived cells by adapting TRACER, a paper-based, engineered 3D model that allows snapshot analysis of cellular response in hypoxia. In this study, we establish a direct co-culture method of primary macrophages and PDAC organoid cells in TRACER and demonstrate that TRACER co-cultures generate hypoxic gradients and show expected phenotypic responses to this hypoxic gradient. Moreover, we report for the first time in a humanin vitromodel that hypoxic macrophages exert a graded chemoprotective effect on gemcitabine-treated PDAC organoid cells, and that interactions between cancer cells and macrophages from the inner layers of TRACER indirectly attenuate the inflammatory response of donor-derived T-cells. Overall, the TRACER co-culture system is a novel, fully human 3Din vitrocancer-immune model for evaluating the response of macrophages and cancer cells in a hypoxic gradient.
Multiple genetic variants at theSLC30A8locus affect local super-enhancer activity and influence pancreatic β-cell survival and function
Authors: Hu Ming , Kim Innah , Morán Ignasi , Peng Weicong , Sun Orien , Bonnefond Amélie , Khamis Amna , Bonas-Guarch Silvia , Froguel Philippe , Rutter Guy A.
Published: July 2023

Variants at theSLC30A8locus are associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk. The lead variant, rs13266634, encodes an amino acid change, Arg325Trp (R325W), at the C-terminus of the secretory granule-enriched zinc transporter, ZnT8. Although this protein-coding variant was previously thought to be the sole driver of T2D risk at this locus, recent studies have provided evidence for lowered expression ofSLC30A8mRNA in protective allele carriers. In the present study, combined allele-specific expression (cASE) analysis in human islets revealed multiple variants that influenceSLC30A8expression. Epigenomic mapping identified an islet-selective enhancer cluster at theSLC30A8locus, hosting multiple T2D risk and cASE associations, which is spatially associated with theSLC30A8promoter and additional neighbouring genes. Deletions of variant-bearing enhancer regions using CRISPR-Cas9 in human-derived EndoC-βH3 cells lowered the expression ofSLC30A8and several neighbouring genes, and improved insulin secretion. Whilst down-regulation ofSLC30A8had no effect on beta cell survival, loss ofUTP23,RAD21 or MED30markedly reduced cell viability. Although eQTL or cASE analyses in human islets did not support the association between these additional genes and diabetes risk, the transcriptional regulator JQ1 lowered the expression of multiple genes at theSLC30A8locus and enhanced stimulated insulin secretion.
Dual Membrane-spanning Anti-Sigma Factors Regulate Vesiculation in Gut Bacteroidota
Authors: Pardue Evan J. , Sartorio Mariana G. , Jana Biswanath , Scott Nichollas E. , Beatty Wandy , Ortiz-Marquez Juan C. , Van Opijnen Tim , Hsu Fong-Fu , Potter Robert , Feldman Mario F.
Published: July 2023

Bacteroidota are abundant members of the human gut microbiota that shape the enteric landscape by modulating host immunity and degrading dietary- and host-derived glycans. These processes are at least partially mediated byOuterMembraneVesicles (OMVs). In this work, we developed a high-throughput screen to identify genes required for OMV biogenesis and its regulation inBacteroides thetaiotaomicron(Bt). Our screening led us to the identification of a novel family ofDualMembrane-spanningAnti-sigma factors (Dma), which regulate OMV biogenesis inBt. We employed molecular and multiomic analyses to demonstrate that deletion of Dma1, the founding member of the Dma family, results in hypervesiculation by modulating the expression of NigD1, which belongs to a family of uncharacterized proteins found throughout Bacteroidota. Dma1 has an unprecedented domain organization: it contains a C-terminal β-barrel embedded in the OM; its N-terminal domain interacts with its cognate sigma factor in the cytoplasm, and both domains are tethered via an intrinsically disordered region that traverses the periplasm. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that the Dma family is a unique feature of Bacteroidota. This study provides the first mechanistic insights into the regulation of OMV biogenesis in human gut bacteria.
Balancing the scales: Impact of irrigation and pathogen burden on potato blackleg disease and soil microbial communities
Authors: Keating Ciara , Kilbride Elizabeth , Stalham Mark A. , Nellist Charlotte , Milner Joel , Humphris Sonia , Toth Ian , Mable Barbara K. , Ijaz Umer Zeeshan
Published: July 2023

Understanding the interaction between environmental conditions, crop yields, and soil health is crucial for sustainable agriculture in a changing climate. Management practices to limit disease are a balancing act. For example, in potato production, dry conditions favour common scab (Streptomycesspp.) and wet conditions favour blackleg disease (Pectobacteriumspp.). The exact mechanisms involved and how these link to changes in the soil microbiome is unclear. Our objectives were to test how irrigation management and bacterial pathogen load in potato seed stocks impact: i) crop yields; ii) disease development (blackleg/common scab); and iii) soil microbial community dynamics. We used stocks of seed potatoes with varyingPectobacteriumlevels (Jelly [high load], Jelly [low load], and Estima [Zero – noPectobacterium]). Stocks were grown under four irrigation regimes that differed in the timing and level of watering. The soil microbial communities were profiled using amplicon sequencing at 50% plant emergence and harvest and advanced bioinformatic analyses were used to correlate microbes to treatments and disease symptoms. Irrigation increased blackleg symptoms in the plots planted with stocks with low and high levels ofPectobacterium(22-34%) but not in the zero stock (2-6%). Not irrigating increased common scab symptoms (2-5%) and reduced crop yields. Irrigation did not impact the composition of the soil microbiome, but planting stock with a highPectobacteriumburden resulted in an increased abundance ofPlanctomycetota,Anaerolinea, andAcidobacteriaspecies within the microbiome. Ensemble quotient analysis highlightedAnaerolineaas highly associated with blackleg symptoms in the field. We conclude thatPectobacteriumpathogen load within seed stocks could have more substantial effects on soil communities than irrigation regimes.
Changes in cell morphology and function induced byNRASQ61R mutation in lymphatic endothelial cells
Authors: Yasue Shiho , Ozeki Michio , Nozawa Akifumi , Endo Saori , Ohnishi Hidenori
Published: July 2023

Recently, a low-level somatic mutation inNRAS gene (c.182 A > G, Q61R) was identified in the specimens of patients with kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA). However, it is unknown how these low-frequency mutated cells can affect the characterization and surrounding environment of their lesions. To understand the pathogenesis and association of these gene abnormalities, we establishedNRASQ61Rmutated lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) transfected with lentivirus vector and undertook morphological and functional characterization, protein expression profiling, and metabolome analysis.NRASQ61Rhuman dermal LECs showed poor tube formation and high cell proliferation and migration ability with increasing ratios of mutated cells. Analysis of signaling pathways showed inactivation of the PIK3/AKT/mTOR pathway and hyperactivation of the RAS/MAPK/ERK pathway, which was improved by MEK inhibitor treatment. This study may show the theoretical circumstancesin vitroinduced byNRASQ61R-mutated cells in the affected lesions of KLA patients.
Crystal structures of four organic salts of trihexyphenidyl at 90 K
Authors: Vinaya  , Basavaraju Yeriyur B. , Yathirajan Hemmige S. , Parkin Sean
Published: July 2023

The syntheses and crystal structure studies of four organic salts of trihexyphenidyl, viz., trihexyphenidylium [1-(3-cyclohexyl-3-hydroxy-3-phenylpropyl)piperidin-1-ium] 4-nitrobenzoate, C20H32NO+·C7H4NO4
− (I), trihexyphenidylium 4-hydroxybenzoate, C20H32NO+·C7H5O− (II), trihexyphenidylium 4-bromobenzoate, C20H32NO+·C7H4BrO2
− (III), and trihexyphenidylium thiophene-2-carboxylate hemihydrate, 2C20H32NO+·2C5H3O2S−·H2O (IV), conducted at 90 K are described. Structures I, II, and III are solvent free with one cation–anion pair per asymmetric unit, while IV crystallizes as a hemihydrate, having two cation–anion pairs and one water of crystallization in its asymmetric unit. Structures I and III exhibit configurational disorder of the cation. Structure IV also exhibits disorder, but only of the thiophene-2-carboxylate anions. Structure II is a non-merohedric twin by a twofold rotation about [403]. The main supramolecular motifs in I, II, and III are similar R
2
2(10) rings between cation–anion pairs, although their packing within the crystals is distinct. As a consequence of having two cation–anion pairs and a water molecule in its asymmetric unit, the packing in IV is by far the most complex of the four structures, its hydrogen-bonding patterns being quite different from I, II, or III. In all the crystals studied, N—H...O, O—H...O, and C—H...O interactions are observed, plus C—H...Br close contacts for III.
Circular economy practices in supply chain finance: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Patra Soumya Prakash , Wankhede Vishal Ashok , Agrawal Rohit
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Supply chain finance is an emergent research area dealing with the financial performance of a firm throughout its supply chain. It has been drawing significant attention among industrial practitioners and researchers. However, there is need to identify improvements in supply chain finance (SCF) practices to ensure sustainable growth. In recent years, circular economy practices are being adopted worldwide with a motivation to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Moreover, integration of circular economy practices in the financial aspects of supply chain is still in infant age.

Design/methodology/approach

Adoption of circular SCF in firms enhances both restorative and regenerative capacities of the firm. In this regard, this study aims to review articles on circular practices in SCF. The study identified 329 articles related to circular practices and sustainable practices in SCF from the Scopus database. The shortlisted articles were reviewed and discussed.

Findings

The findings of the study help to recognize the most influential and productive research in circular SCF in terms of journals and trends. Further research is recommended to explore this area in depth to recognize potential integrating factors that help in smooth acceptance of circular finance in supply chains.

Originality/value

Bibliometric and network analyses were performed to identify research trends and networks in the field of circular SCF. In addition, emerging research themes in the field of circular SCF were identified and discussed, and research propositions are proposed to delineate future research directions.
Reconstruction of granite microstructure model using simulated annealing method and Voronoi tessellation
Authors: Chen Bin , Wang Yuan , Cui Shaoqing , Xiang Jiansheng , Latham John-Paul , Fu Jinlong
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Accurate presentation of the rock microstructure is critical to the grain-scale analysis of rock deformation and failure in numerical modelling. 3D granite microstructure modelling has only been used in limited studies with the mineral pattern often remaining poorly constructed. In this study, the authors developed a new approach for generating 2D and 3D granite microstructure models from a 2D image by combining a heterogeneous material reconstruction method (simulated annealing method) with Voronoi tessellation.

Design/methodology/approach

More specifically, the stochastic information in the 2D image is first extracted using the two-point correlation function (TPCF). Then an initial 2D or 3D Voronoi diagram with a random distribution of the minerals is generated and optimised using a simulated annealing method until the corresponding TPCF is consistent with that in the 2D image. The generated microstructure model accurately inherits the stochastic information (e.g. volume fraction and mineral pattern) from the 2D image. Lastly, the authors compared the topological characteristics and mechanical properties of the 2D and 3D reconstructed microstructure models with the model obtained by direct mapping from the 2D image of a real rock sample.

Findings

The good agreements between the mapped and reconstructed models indicate the accuracy of the reconstructed microstructure models on topological characteristics and mechanical properties.

Originality/value

The newly developed reconstruction method successfully transfers the mineral pattern from a granite sample into the 2D and 3D Voronoi-based microstructure models ready for use in grain-scale modelling.
Developing brand meaning theory: the interplay of tangible attributes and intangible associations in relation to local food brands
Authors: Quest Jill
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore brand meaning from a consumer perspective, identifying tangible attributes and intangible associations and their arrangement in brand meaning frameworks. Previous literature has focused on brand meaning flowing from intangible associations, and new insights are offered into the tangible attributes’ contribution to brand meaning.

Design/methodology/approach

A phenomenological approach was adopted, and meanings were gathered from lived experiences with consumers of local food brands. Quasi-ethnographic methods were used, including accompanied shopping trips to food fairs and local farm shops, kitchen visits and in-depth interviews in and around the county of Dorset in the south-west of England.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that tangible attributes have sensorial and functional brand meanings and are mentally processed. Both hierarchical and flatter patterned approaches are present when connecting attributes and associations. The hierarchical approach reflects both short and long laddering approaches; the flatter alternative offers an interwoven, patterned presentation.

Research limitations/implications

This is a small in-depth study of local food brands, and the findings cannot be generalised across other brand categories.

Practical implications

Local food brand practitioners can promote relevant sensorial (e.g. taste) and functional (e.g. animal welfare) attributes. These can be woven into appropriate intangible associations, creating producer stories to be communicated through their websites and social media campaigns.

Originality/value

A revised brand meaning theoretical framework updates previous approaches and develops brand meaning theory. The study demonstrates that tangible attributes have meaning and hierarchical connections across tangible attributes, and intangible associations should not always be assumed. An additional patterned approach is present that weaves attributes and associations in a holistic, non-hierarchical way.
An investigation of precursors of online impulse buying and its effects on purchase regret: role of consumer innovation
Authors: Sarwar Muhammad Arslan , Nasir Jawaria , Sarwar Binesh , Hussain Muzzammil , Abbas Ali
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Impulsive buyers are a dream segment for retailers and marketers. Stimulants in the retail environment and cognitive aspects evoke a sudden urge the acquisition of products spontaneously. This paper aims to examine key cognitive aspects of impulsive buying behaviour and purchase regret in an online context.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted to collect the data of 317 online consumers with the help of a convenience sampling technique. The structural equation modelling technique was carried out to establish the validity and reliability of measures and examine the proposed relational paths.

Findings

The study results suggest that cognitive aspects recede impulsive buying, resulting in purchase regret. The empirical findings on the impulsive buying behaviour and purchase regret to yield several important implications, including developing marketing strategies and policies to evoke the intentions for impulsive buying behaviour, consumer innovation and balancing the feelings of regret.

Practical implications

The study also provides some significant contributions to the literature on online impulse buying and its related paradigms.

Originality/value

This study mainly attempted to determine the precursors of online impulse buying and purchase regret from the perspective of hedonic and experiential consumption motivation and consumer innovation. Getting reflections from cognitive dissonance theory and the post purchase evaluation, a theoretical model was developed and empirically tested for impulsive online buyers.
Predicting turnover intention in Indonesian public organisations: investigating the effect of citizen and workplace incivility, and job insecurity
Authors: Wirawan Hillman , Salam Rudi , Normawati Normawati , Paramarta Vip , Sunarsi Denok
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of citizens' uncivil behaviours on the turnover intention of public service personnel. It tested the moderated mediation role of job insecurity and workplace incivility. The conservation of resource (COR) theory was employed to explain the public service personnel's reactions to resource loss threats and the desire to conserve the remaining resources.

Design/methodology/approach

A longitudinal quantitative study design was used with a moderated mediation regression technique. Data were collected from 235 full-time public service personnel from five Indonesian public service organizations. The organizations included higher education, regional government institutions, and health, tourism, and transportation departments. All measures were valid and reliable for study purposes.

Findings

The citizen incivility's effect on turnover intention was mediated by job insecurity and moderated by workplace incivility. Citizen incivility positively influenced job insecurity only under high workplace incivility. Therefore, citizens' uncivil behaviours could not increase public service personnel's job insecurity and turnover intention without high workplace incivility.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on citizens' incivility as a source of social stressors in Indonesian public organizations. The findings showed that citizens' hostile behaviours impact public employees' job insecurity only through workplace incivility.
Perceived risk and benefits of e-health consultation and their influence on user’s intention to use
Authors: Sahoo Anjan Kumar , Dash Ajitabh , Nayak Parameswar
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the user’s behavior and intention to continue using e-health services by analyzing the factors influencing their decision. The stimuli–organism–behavior–consequence (SOBC) framework was used to assess how the risks and benefits of e-health influence both behavioral intention (BI) and continued use.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses proposed for this study were tested with partial least square-based structural equation modeling. This study relied on the primary data collected from 572 respondents using convenient sampling.

Findings

This study examined the SOBC model’s four phases’ with the help of eight constructs. The conceptual model allowed the authors to examine 10 relationships to measure e-health adoption behavior in emerging nations like India. This study found that convenience, perceived risk and facilitating conditions are positively related to the effort and performance expectancy (PE) associated with e-health consultation. Only social influence is unrelated. This study also found a positive and substantial relationship between BI, effort and PE.

Originality/value

The study uses the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and the SOBC paradigm to determine the factors influencing users’ intentions to use e-health. In addition to bringing new aspects to the existing literature on technology adoption and e-health consultation, the results of this study will aid e-health service providers in formulating strategies to promote the usage of e-health in emerging economies like India.
Wave‐based inversion at scale on graphical processing units with randomized trace estimation
Authors: Louboutin Mathias , Herrmann Felix J.
Published: July 2023

Thanks to continued performance improvements in software and hardware, wave‐equation‐based imaging technologies, such as full‐waveform inversion and reverse‐time migration, are becoming more commonplace. However, widespread adaptation of these advanced imaging modalities has not yet materialized because current implementations are not able to reap the full benefits from accelerators, in particular those offered by memory‐scarce graphics processing units. Through the use of randomized trace estimation, we overcome the memory bottleneck of this type of hardware. At the cost of limited computational overhead and controllable incoherent errors in the gradient, the memory footprint of adjoint‐state methods is reduced drastically. Thanks to this relatively simple to implement memory reduction via an approximate imaging condition, we are able to benefit from graphics processing units without memory offloading. We demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithm on acoustic two‐ and three‐dimensional full‐waveform inversion examples and on the formation of image gathers in transverse tilted isotropic media.
Historical Military Conflict and Cross‐Border VC Performance: The Role of Ownership Control
Authors: Buchner Axel , Helbing Pia , Mohamed Abdulkadir , Yoon Hyungseok (David)
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the effect of historical military conflict (between the home countries of venture capital (VC) firms and portfolio companies) on the performance of cross‐border VC investments. Using exhaustive data on global cross‐border investments during 1986–2017, we find that adverse memories imprinted by historical military conflict have a negative effect on cross‐border performance as measured by internal rate of return and public market equivalent. We show that nation‐dyadic (i.e. political affinity) and ownership control strategy (i.e. board seat and syndication)‐related contingencies moderate the relationship between historical military conflict and cross‐border performance. Collectively, our findings shed light on the presence of intergroup interaction challenges and mistrust when investing in cross‐border VC deals and demonstrate channels to mitigate their adverse effects.
Mechanisms of bariatric surgery for weight loss and diabetes remission
Authors: Yin Mengsha , Wang Yao , Han Mingyue , Liang Ruishuang , Li Shanshan , Wang Guixia , Gang Xiaokun
Published: July 2023

Obesity and type 2 diabetes(T2D) lead to defects in intestinal hormones secretion, abnormalities in the composition of bile acids (BAs), increased systemic and adipose tissue inflammation, defects of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) catabolism, and dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Bariatric surgery (BS) has been shown to be highly effective in the treatment of obesity and T2D, which allows us to view BS not simply as weight‐loss surgery but as a means of alleviating obesity and its comorbidities, especially T2D. In recent years, accumulating studies have focused on the mechanisms of BS to find out which metabolic parameters are affected by BS through which pathways, such as which hormones and inflammatory processes are altered. The literatures are saturated with the role of intestinal hormones and the gut‐brain axis formed by their interaction with neural networks in the remission of obesity and T2D following BS. In addition, BAs, gut microbiota and other factors are also involved in these benefits after BS. The interaction of these factors makes the mechanisms of metabolic improvement induced by BS more complicated. To date, we do not fully understand the exact mechanisms of the metabolic alterations induced by BS and its impact on the disease process of T2D itself. This review summarizes the changes of intestinal hormones, BAs, BCAAs, gut microbiota, signaling proteins, growth differentiation factor 15, exosomes, adipose tissue, brain function, and food preferences after BS, so as to fully understand the actual working mechanisms of BS and provide nonsurgical therapeutic strategies for obesity and T2D.
Phylogenomic and syntenic data demonstrate complex evolutionary processes in early radiation of the rosids
Authors: Liu Luxian , Chen Mengzhen , Folk Ryan A. , Wang Meizhen , Zhao Tao , Shang Fude , Soltis Douglas E. , Li Pan
Published: July 2023

Some of the most vexing problems of deep level relationship that remain in angiosperms involve the superrosids. The superrosid clade contains a quarter of all angiosperm species, with 18 orders in three subclades (Vitales, Saxifragales and core rosids) exhibiting remarkable morphological and ecological diversity. To help resolve deep‐level relationships, we constructed a high‐quality chromosome‐level genome assembly for Tiarella polyphylla (Saxifragaceae) thus providing broader genomic representation of Saxifragales. Whole genome microsynteny analysis of superrosids showed that Saxifragales shared more synteny clusters with core rosids than Vitales, further supporting Saxifragales as more closely related with core rosids. To resolve the ordinal phylogeny of superrosids, we screened 122 single copy nuclear genes from genomes of 36 species, representing all 18 superrosid orders. Vitales were recovered as sister to all other superrosids (Saxifragales + core rosids). Our data suggest dramatic differences in relationships compared to earlier studies within core rosids. Fabids should be restricted to the nitrogen‐fixing clade, while Picramniales, the Celastrales‐Malpighiales (CM) clade, Huerteales, Oxalidales, Sapindales, Malvales and Brassicales formed an “expanded” malvid clade. The Celastrales‐Oxalidales‐Malpighiales (COM) clade (sensu APG IV) was not monophyletic. Crossosomatales, Geraniales, Myrtales and Zygophyllales did not belong to either of our well‐supported malvids or fabids. There is strong discordance between nuclear and plastid phylogenetic hypotheses for superrosid relationships; we show that this is best explained by a combination of incomplete lineage sorting and ancient reticulation.
Health services utilization by fibromyalgia patients from two ethnic groups
Authors: Treister‐Goltzman Yulia , Peleg Roni , Sagy Iftach , Menashe Idan
Published: July 2023

Aim

The cost to the healthcare system of management and treatment for fibromyalgia patients is high. The aims of the study were to identify and compare factors associated with the use of healthcare services among fibromyalgia patients in southern Israel from two ethnic groups.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of patients insured in the southern district of the Clalit Healthcare Services in Israel in 2019–2020. The data were collected from the central computerized system. Multivariable regression models were developed for healthcare services utilization.

Results

During the study period, 7686 members were diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The median for specialist consultations was 47 and for imaging tests was eight. About 47% made emergency room visits and 25% were hospitalized. The median of imaging tests was significantly higher in Jewish patients than in Arab patients (8 vs. 6; p = .000). In contrast, a significantly higher rate of Arab patients visited the Emergency Room at least once (51.6% vs. 46.75%; p = .000) and they had a higher median number or Emergency Room visits (2 vs. 1; p = .003), compared with Jewish patients. In the Arab group there was a strong effect coefficient for another localized pain syndrome with specialist consultations (odds ratio [OR] 1.699; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.266–2.241) and imaging tests (OR 2.511; 95% CI 1.496–4.146).

Conclusions

The utilization rate of healthcare services is high among fibromyalgia patients. The factors associated with high healthcare utilization are different in the two ethnic groups. Future studies could show if interventions designed to address modifiable factors could reduce the overutilization of healthcare services.
Assessing the role of colonic and other anatomical sites uptake by [18F]FDG‐PET/CT and immune‐inflammatory peripheral blood indexes in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer treated with first‐line immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Rizzo Alessio , Cantale Ornella , Mogavero Andrea , Garetto Lucia , Racca Manuela , Venesio Tiziana , Anpalakhan Shobana , Novello Silvia , Gregorc Vanesa , Banna Giuseppe Luigi
Published: July 2023

Background

Inflammation in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) may impair the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and can be indicated by peripheral blood inflammatory indexes. 2‐deoxy‐2‐[18F]fluoro‐D‐glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography ([18F] FDG‐PET/CT) may be used as a marker of inflammation by measuring glucose metabolism in different colonic sites.

Methods

This retrospective analysis aimed to investigate the correlation between [18F] FDGPET/CT SUVratio in six gastrointestinal districts, the spleen, the pharynx and the larynx alongside the most avid tumor lesion with peripheral blood inflammatory indexes, including the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic immune‐inflammatory index (SII, i.e., NLR times platelets) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), in patients with [18F] FDG‐PET/CT staged IV NSCLC who received first‐line immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The role of SUVratios and peripheral blood inflammatory indexes in predicting overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) was then explored.

Results

A total of 43 patients were treated with first‐line ICI alone (58%) or in combination with chemotherapy (42%). A significant correlation was only found between the rectosigmoid SUVratio and NLR (p = 0.0465). NLR >5.5 and LDH > 333.5 were associated with a worse OS (p = 0.033 and p = 0.009, respectively). The SII was associated with a worse PFS in patients treated with ICI alone (p = 0.033). None of the SUVratios were significantly associated with OS or PFS, although a high left colon SUVratio showed a trend toward a worse PFS.

Conclusion

There was no significant correlation between [18F]FDG PET/CT uptake in different anatomical sites, and in the tumor, and systemic immune‐inflammatory indexes. The prognostic role of high left colon SUVratio deserves further investigation.
Safety and feasibility of preferential manual bronchoplasty in 2–3 cm single‐port video‐assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy
Authors: Qi Kang , Lin Gang , Liu Haibo , Zhang Xining , Huang Weiming , Chen Zhimao , Li Jian
Published: July 2023

Background

This retrospective study aimed to compare preferential manual bronchoplasty (PMB) and mechanical stapler closure (MSC) of the bronchial stump after 2–3 cm single‐port (SP) video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy in patients with pathological T1 (pT1) stage lung cancer.

Methods

Between January 2019 and March 2022, patients with pulmonary neoplasms who underwent 2–3 cm SP VATS lobectomy were retrospectively screened. After propensity‐matched analysis, we compared perioperative outcomes and analyzed the safety and feasibility of PMB and MSC of the bronchial stump while performing VATS lobectomy.

Results

In this study, 280 and 832 patients were enrolled in the PMB and MSC groups, respectively. Propensity score matching produced 280 pairs. The operation time was shorter in the PMB group, whereas the average number of lymph nodes dissected was higher in the PMB group. The conversion rate was significantly lower in the PMB group. The following were similar between the PMB and MSC groups, respectively: average blood loss volume, postoperative hospital stay, and chest tube removal time. Postoperatively, the incidence of atelectasis was significantly higher in the MSC group. As per subgroup analyses, PMB was associated with a shorter operation time in left and right upper lobectomies. Particularly in left upper lobectomy, PMB had more lymph node dissections and less conversion to open and postoperative atelectasis.

Conclusions

In comparison with MSC of the bronchial stump, PMB showed better safety and feasibility in 2–3 cm SP VATS left and right superior lobectomies in patients with pT1 stage lung cancer.
Implementation of geriatric screening in the emergency department using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research
Authors: Southerland Lauren T. , Gulker Peg , Van Fossen Jenifer , Rine‐Haghiri Lorri , Caterino Jeffrey M. , Mion Lorraine C. , Carpenter Christopher R. , Cardone Michael S. , Hill Michael , Hunold Katherine M.
Published: July 2023

Objective

Implementation of evidence‐based care processes (EBP) into the emergency department (ED) is challenging and there are only a few studies of real‐world use of theory‐based implementation frameworks. We report final implementation results and sustainability of an EBP geriatric screening program in the ED using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Methods

The EBP involved nurses screening older patients for delirium (Delirium Triage Screen), fall risk (4‐Stage Balance Test), and vulnerability (Identification of Seniors at Risk score) with subsequent appropriate referrals to physicians, therapy specialists, or social workers. The proportions of screened adults ≥65 years old were tracked monthly. Outcomes are reported January 2021–December 2022. Barriers encountered were classified according to CFIR. Implementation strategies were classified according to the CFIR‐Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC).

Results

Implementation strategies increased geriatric screening from 5% to 68%. This did not meet our prespecified goal of 80%. Change was sustained through several COVID‐19 waves. Inner setting barriers included culture and implementation climate. Initially, the ED was treated as a single inner setting, but we found different cultures and uptake between ED units, including night versus day shifts. Characteristics of individuals barriers included high levels of staff turnover in both clinical and administrative roles and very low self‐efficacy from stress and staff turnover. Initial attempts with individualized audit and feedback were not successful in improving self‐efficacy and may have caused moral injury. Adjusting feedback to a team/unit level approach with unitwide stretch goals worked better. Identifying early adopters and conducting on‐shift education increased uptake. Lessons learned regarding ED culture, implementation in interconnected health systems, and rapid cycle process improvement are reported.

Conclusions

The pandemic exacerbated barriers to implementation in the ED. Cognizance of a large ED as a sum of smaller units and using the CFIR model resulted in improvements.
Does patent infringement litigation affect stock price crash risk? Evidence from China
Authors: Deng Hui , Xiong Lingyun , Xiao Lijuan
Published: July 2023

Previous studies have examined the determinants of stock price crash risk. However, extant literature overlooks the relationship between patent infringement litigation and stock price crash risk. Based on a dataset of Chinese firm‐year observations for the period 2007–2021, we fill the gap by examining how patent infringement litigation affects stock price crash risk and the underlying channels through which this effect occurs. We provide robust evidence that corporate patent infringement litigation increases its risk of one‐year‐ahead stock crash. This unfavourable effect is more pronounced in firms that were involved with invention patent infringement lawsuits, lost a patent litigation case, suffered from larger litigation costs and are defendant firms. The channel analysis confirms that increased information risks and exacerbated financial constraints are two plausible channels explaining how patent infringement litigation leads to stock price crash risk. Finally, we find that effective corporate governance and risk‐taking level are conducive to mitigate the unfavourable effect of patent infringement litigation on stock crash risk. This study enriches the literature on stock price crash risk from the perspective of patent infringement litigation.
Helminths' therapeutic potential to treat intestinal barrier dysfunction
Authors: Mules Thomas C. , Inns Stephen , Le Gros Graham
Published: July 2023

The intestinal barrier is a dynamic multi‐layered structure which can adapt to environmental changes within the intestinal lumen. It has the complex task of allowing nutrient absorption while limiting entry of harmful microbes and microbial antigens present in the intestinal lumen. Excessive entry of microbial antigens via microbial translocation due to ‘intestinal barrier dysfunction’ is hypothesised to contribute to the increasing incidence of allergic, autoimmune and metabolic diseases, a concept referred to as the ‘epithelial barrier theory’. Helminths reside in the intestinal tract are in intimate contact with the mucosal surfaces and induce a range of local immunological changes which affect the layers of the intestinal barrier. Helminths are proposed to prevent, or even treat, many of the diseases implicated in the epithelial barrier theory. This review will focus on the effect of helminths on intestinal barrier function and explore whether this could explain the proposed health benefits delivered by helminths.