bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor inhibition reduces stenosis grade and total serum cholesterol levels in a mouse model for atherosclerosis
Authors: Hemme E , Depuydt M A C , Van Santbrink P J , Delfos L , Kuiper J , Bot I
Published: May 2024

Funding Acknowledgements 

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Dutch Heart Foundation

Atherosclerosis is characterized by the accumulation of lipids and immune cells in the arterial wall and it is the main underlying pathology causing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Cytokines are involved in all stages of atherosclerosis and most cytokines contribute to disease progression. For instance, IL-6 cytokine family members, such as IL-6, oncostatin-M and cardiotrophin-1, are closely related to CVDs. However, the role of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a member of the IL-6 cytokine family, and its receptor (LIFR) in atherosclerosis remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the contribution of LIFR signaling to atherosclerosis development by systemically inhibiting LIFR in an atherosclerotic mouse model.

First, the expression of LIF and LIFR was examined using single-cell RNA sequencing data of human carotid artery plaques. Mast cells highly and exclusively express LIF, whereas LIFR was specifically expressed by activated endothelial cells. To validate LIFR signaling in vivo, female western-type diet fed Ldlr-/- mice were treated with LIFR inhibitor EC359 (5 mg/kg s.c., n=15) or control solvent (n=15) three times per week for eight weeks. During the experiment, weights of the mice did not differ between groups, whereas total serum cholesterol levels were significantly reduced in EC359 treated mice (p=0.03). In particular, EC359 treatment reduced VLDL levels. Additionally, EC359 treatment significantly reduced Sr1, Abca1 and Lrp1 expression in the liver, suggesting an altered lipid metabolism in EC359 treated mice. Furthermore, LIFR inhibition affected innate immunity, both systemically and locally in the plaque. Neutrophil numbers were significantly increased in the circulation (ctrl 18.7±1.7%; EC359 28.0±2.0%; p=0.002) and aortic plaques (ctrl 3.9±0.8%; EC359 9.9±1.9%; p=0.003) of mice treated with EC359 compared to control mice. Moreover, LIFR inhibition affected circulating monocytes resulting in less inflammatory monocytes. The adaptive immune cells, such as T and B cells, remained largely unaffected. Collectively, the reduction of serum total cholesterol and increase in neutrophil numbers in EC359 treated mice resulted in a trend towards reduced atherosclerotic stenosis grade compared to control mice (39.8±1.4% versus 34.9±1.9%; p=0.054), but it did not affect plaque collagen and monocyte/macrophage content in the aortic root. Conclusively, LIFR signaling inhibition reduces atherosclerotic stenosis grade, lowers plasma total cholesterol levels and affects innate immunity.
The novel bispecific anti-NLRP3 inflammasome antibody InflamAb inhibits atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice
Authors: Delfos L , Depuydt M A C , Bernabe Kleijn M N A , Foks A C , Kuiper J , Chemaly M , Peace A , Mcgilligan V , Bot I
Published: May 2024

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Dutch Heart Foundation

Background/Introduction

Atherosclerosis is the underlying pathology of many cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by chronic inflammation in the larger arteries. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome is one of the drivers of inflammation during atherosclerosis.

Purpose

Therefore, we aimed to determine the ability of the novel bispecific anti-NLRP3 inflammasome antibody, called InflamAb, to inhibit atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results

In vitro treatment of bone marrow derived macrophages with 25 ng/mL InflamAb effectively inhibited the IL-1β release induced by NLRP3 inflammasome activation with LPS and Aluminium hydroxide (P<0.05). In addition, InflamAb administration in western-type diet fed Apoe-/- mice significantly reduced circulating IL-1β at 4 hours post inflammasome activation (P<0.05), thereby showing in vivo efficacy of InflamAb. Subsequently, we assessed the effect of InflamAb on both the development of atherosclerosis and on pre-existing plaques. Treatment of western-type diet fed female Apoe-/- mice with 100 µg InflamAb or isotype control antibody (3x per week i.p) significantly inhibited collar-induced atherosclerotic plaque development in the carotid artery from 59±8*10^3 µm^2 in control mice to 36±5*10^3 µm^2 (P<0.05), which coincided with a reduction in relative macrophage (control: 36±2% versus InflamAb: 28±3%, P<0.05) and necrotic core content (control: 16±2% versus InflamAb: 8±1%, P<0.05). InflamAb treatment of male Apoe-/- with pre-existing atherosclerosis did not affect lesion size, but improved plaque stability parameters as illustrated by a reduced relative macrophage (control: 48±2% versus InflamAb: 42±2%, P<0.05) and necrotic core (control: 21±1% versus InflamAb: 18±1%, P<0.05) content. In addition, we observed a trend towards increased collagen levels upon InflamAb treatment (control: 39±2% versus InflamAb: 44±2%, P=0.08).

Conclusion

To conclude, NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition by the bispecific antibody InflamAb shows promising efficacy in inhibiting atherosclerotic plaque development and destabilization.
Generation of isogenic allelic series of LMNA-mutated hiPSC lines using the novel and highly-efficient targeting platform, STRAIGHT-IN
Authors: Meraviglia V , Blanch-Asensio A , Davis R , Mummery C L , Bellin M
Published: May 2024

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development ZonMW

Background

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) have demonstrated enormous potential for advancing in vitro disease modelling and genetically modified hiPSCs carrying disease-associated variants are particularly useful tools for this purpose. Until now, strategies for efficient and rapid integration of large DNA payloads (>10 kb) into specific genomic regions are still limited, thus precluding efficient and rapid targeting of hiPSC lines.

Purpose and Methods

To overcome this, the STRAIGHT-IN platform (Serine and Tyrosine Recombinase Assisted Integration of Genes for High-Throughput INvestigation) was developed that combined different classes of site-specific recombinases with CRISPR-Cas9 mediated homologous recombination and allowed stringent site-specific replacement of large genomic fragments in hiPSCs.

Here, we use STRAIGHT-IN to simultaneously generate a library of genetically matched hiPSC lines carrying multiple heterozygous mutations in LMNA gene. Mutations in LMNA, encoding Lamin A/C protein, have been associated with 5-10% cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with conduction defects.

Results

Through detailed online searches of the LMNA database and literature, we identified and selected 11 LMNA mutations to insert into a wild-type hiPSC line based on the following criteria: (i) mutations associated with cardiac abnormalities, in terms of structural (DCM/heart failure) and arrhythmic phenotypes; (ii) mutations with known familiar/pedigree-relationship; (iii) different types of mutations (missense and nonsense). We then applied the workflow of STRAIGHT-IN consisting of: (1) replacing the entire LMNA genomic locus (33 kb) on one allele with a Landing Pad (LP) cassette containing Serine Recombinase (Bxb1) recognition sites; (2) reintroducing LMNA gene into the LP cassette through integration of Bxb1-Donor plasmids carrying the LMNA variants of interest via Bxb1 expression; (3) expressing a tyrosine recombinase (Cre) to excise the majority of the auxiliary exogenous DNA sequences.

Conclusions

STRAIGHT-IN allows simultaneous generation of a panel of 11 isogenic hiPSC lines carrying selected LMNA mutations rapidly (5-6 weeks), efficiently and cost-effectively, thus facilitating the production of specific mutated hiPSC lines for disease modelling and personalized medicine applications.
What Good Are Treatment Effects Without Treatment? Mental Health and the Reluctance to Use Talk Therapy
Authors: Cronin Christopher J , Forsstrom Matthew P , Papageorge Nicholas W
Published: May 2024

Evidence across disciplines suggests that talk therapy is more curative than antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety. Yet, few patients use it. We develop a dynamic choice model to analyse patient demand for the treatment of depression and anxiety. The model incorporates myriad potential impediments to therapy use along with links between mental health improvements and earnings. The estimated model reveals that mental health improvements are valuable, directly through utility and indirectly through earnings. However, patient reluctance to use therapy is nearly impervious to reasonable counterfactual policies (e.g. lowering prices or removing other costs). Patient behaviour might reflect stigma, biases in beliefs about the effectiveness of therapy, or a distaste for discussing personal or painful issues with a stranger. More broadly, the benefits of therapy estimated in randomized trials tell only half the story. If patients do not use treatments outside of an experimental setting—and we fail to understand why or how to get them to—estimated treatment effects cannot be leveraged.
Mitigating Microaggressions in Medical Education Through the TRAUMA Framework
Authors: Johnson Christen D. , Mike Elise V. , Jean-Charles Antoinette Leonard
Published: May 2024

Microaggressions are defined as brief communications directed at members of a stigmatized group that are received as derogatory but are unrecognized by the offender. Studies show that microaggressions are detrimental to those of all identities who endure them. Given that microaggressions can result in specific emotional, psychological, and physical challenges for underrepresented medical students from minoritized backgrounds, it is imperative that the medical education community focus efforts on reducing them and their impact through appropriate responses. The TRAUMA framework was developed by the authors and can be used to organize a thorough response to the threat that microaggressions create for all students. The framework includes improved student support, guidelines for faculty and institutional responses to microaggressions, improved faculty development for addressing microaggressions, recommendations to improve classroom environments, and interventions both to create and measure culture change in medical education.
Conceptualizing Educational Comparability in Distributed Health Professions Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hsu Helen C.H. , Martin Tyler , Teunissen Pim W. , Eva Kevin W.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to create greater clarity about the current understanding and formulate a model of how educational comparability has been used in the literature to inform practice.

Method

The authors conducted a literature search of 9 online databases, seeking articles published on comparability in distributed settings in health professions education before August 2021, with an updated search conducted in May 2023. Using a structured scoping review approach, 2 reviewers independently screened articles for eligibility with inclusion criteria and extracted key data. All authors participated in the descriptive analysis of the extracted data.

Results

Twenty-four articles published between 1987 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria. Most articles were focused on medical education programs (n = 21) and located in North America (n = 18). The main rationale for discussing comparability was accreditation. These articles did not offer definitions or discussions about what comparability means. The program logic model was used as an organizing framework to synthesize the literature on practices that schools undertake to facilitate and demonstrate comparability in the design (inputs), implementation (activities), and evaluation (outcomes) of distributed education. Inputs include common learning objectives, identical assessment tools and policies, governance models that enable clear communication, and reporting structure that is supported by technological infrastructure. Activities include faculty planning meetings and faculty development training. Outcomes include student experiences and academic performances.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that a more complex understanding of the dynamics of educational processes and practices is required to better guide the practice of educational comparability within distributed education programs. In addition to highlighting the need to develop an accepted definition of educational comparability, further elucidation of the underlying dynamics among input, activities, and outcomes would help to better determine what drivers should be prioritized when considering educational change with attention to context within distributed education.
Clinician Educator Milestones: Assessing and Improving Educators’ Skills
Authors: Mahan John D. , Kaczmarczyk Joseph M. , Miller Juve Amy K. , Cymet Tyler , Shah Brijen J. , Daniel Rebecca , Edgar Laura
Published: May 2024

The importance of the clinician educator (CE) role in delivery of competency-based medical education is well recognized. There is, however, no formal mechanism to identify when faculty have the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to be successful CEs. In 2020, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education, Association of American Medical Colleges, and American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine convened a workgroup of 18 individuals representing multiple medical specialties and diverse institutions in the United States, including nonphysician educators, a medical student, and a resident, to develop a set of competencies, subcompetencies, and milestones for CEs.

A 5-step process was used to create the Clinician Educator Milestones (CEMs). In step 1, the workgroup developed an initial CEM draft. Through brainstorming, 141 potential education-related CE tasks were identified. Descriptive statements for each competency and developmental trajectories for each subcompetency were developed and confirmed by consensus. The workgroup then created a supplemental guide, assessment tools, and additional resources. In step 2, a diverse group of CEs were surveyed in 2021 and provided feedback on the CEMs. In step 3, this feedback was used by the workgroup to refine the CEMs. In step 4, the second draft of the CEMs was submitted for public comment, and the CEMs were finalized. In step 5, final CEMs were released for public use in 2022.

The CEMs consist of 1 foundational domain that focuses on commitment to lifelong learning, 4 additional domains of competence for CEs in the learning environment, and 20 subcompetencies. These milestones have many potential uses for CEs, including self-assessment, constructing learning and improvement plans, and designing systematic faculty development efforts. The CEMs will continue to evolve as they are applied in practice and as the role of CEs continues to grow and develop.
C/EBPβ-Lin28a positive feedback loop triggered by C/EBPβ hypomethylation enhances the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells in restenosis
Authors: Zhou Xiaojun , Jiang Shan , Guo Siyi , Yao Shuai , Sheng Qiqi , Zhang Qian , Dong Jianjun , Liao Lin
Published: May 2024

Background:

The main cause of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is the excessive proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Lin28a has been reported to play critical regulatory roles in this process. However, whether CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins β (C/EBPβ) binds to the Lin28a promoter and drives the progression of restenosis has not been clarified. Therefore, in the present study, we aim to clarify the role of C/EBPβ–Lin28a axis in restenosis.

Methods:

Restenosis and atherosclerosis rat models of type 2 diabetes (n  =  20, for each group) were established by subjecting to PTA. Subsequently, the difference in DNA methylation status and expression of C/EBPβ between the two groups were assessed. EdU, Transwell, and rescue assays were performed to assess the effect of C/EBPβ on the proliferation and migration of VSMCs. DNA methylation status was further assessed using Methyltarget sequencing. The interaction between Lin28a and ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) was analysed using co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay. Student’s t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

C/EBPβ expression was upregulated and accompanied by hypomethylation of its promoter in restenosis when compared with atherosclerosis. In vitro
C/EBP
β overexpression facilitated the proliferation and migration of VSMCs and was associated with increased Lin28a expression. Conversely, C/EBP
β knockdown resulted in the opposite effects. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays further demonstrated that C/EBPβ could directly bind to Lin28a promoter. Increased C/EBPβ expression and enhanced proliferation and migration of VSMCs were observed after decitabine treatment. Further, mechanical stretch promoted C/EBPβ and Lin28a expression accompanied by C/EBP
β hypomethylation. Additionally, Lin28a overexpression reduced C/EBP
β methylation via recruiting TET1 and enhanced C/EBPβ-mediated proliferation and migration of VSMCs. The opposite was noted in Lin28a knockdown cells.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that the C/EBPβ–Lin28a axis is a driver of restenosis progression, and presents a promising therapeutic target for restenosis.
Mycolicibacterium cyprinidarum sp. nov., a rapidly growing species isolated from diseased koi carp, Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Matsumoto Megumi , Chien Tang Belinda Chien , Machida Yuichiro , Matoyama Hisato , Kishihara Tatsuya , Sato Shoh , Kawato Satoshi , Hirono Ikuo , Sano Motohiko , Kato Goshi
Published: May 2024

A rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacterium was isolated from diseased koi carp in Niigata, Japan, which was identified as representing a novel Mycolicibacterium species through whole genome sequence analysis. The bacterial isolates (NGTWS0302, NGTWS1803T and NGTWSNA01) were found to belong to the genus Mycolicibacterium through phylogenetic analysis using whole genome sequences of mycobacteria species. The bacterial colony was smooth, moist and non-chromogenic on 1% Ogawa medium at 30 °C. In biochemical characteristic tests, the bacterial isolates showed positive reactions for catalase activity, Tween 80 hydrolysis and tellurite reduction. The isolates were sensitive to 2–4 µg ml−1 ampicillin, kanamycin and rifampicin. Based on these results, we propose a novel Mycolicibacterium species, Mycolicibacterium cyprinidarum sp. nov. The type strain is NGTWS1803T (=JCM 35117T=ATCC TSD-289T).
Systematic study of hybrid triplex topology and stability suggests a general triplex-mediated regulatory mechanism
Authors: Genna Vito , Portella Guillem , Sala Alba , Terrazas Montserrat , Villegas Núria , Mateo Lidia , Castellazzi Chiara , Labrador Mireia , Aviño Anna , Hospital Adam , Gandioso Albert , Aloy Patrick , Brun-Heath Isabelle , Gonzalez Carlos , Eritja Ramon , Orozco Modesto
Published: May 2024

By combiningin-silico, biophysical andin-celluloexperiments, we decipher the topology, physical and potential biological properties of hybrid-parallel nucleic acids triplexes; an elusive structure at the basis of life. We found that hybrid triplex topology follows a stability order: r(Py)-d(Pu)·r(Py)> r(Py)-d(Pu)·d(Py)> d(Py)-d(Pu)·d(Py)> d(Py)-d(Pu)·r(Py). The r(Py)-d(Pu)·d(Py) triplex is expected to be the preferred in the cell as it avoids the need to open the duplex reducing the torsional stress required for triplex formation in the r(Py)-d(Pu)·r(Py) topology. Upon a massive collection of melting data, we have created the first predictor for hybrid triplex stability. Leveraging this predictor, we conducted a comprehensive scan to assess the likelihood of the human genome and transcriptome to engage in triplex formation. Our findings unveil a remarkable inclination - of both the human genome and transcriptome - to generate hybrid triplex formation, particularly within untranslated (UTRs) and regulatory regions, thereby corroborating the existence of a triplex-mediated regulatory mechanism. Furthermore, we found a correlation between nucleosome linkers and TFS which agree with a putative role of triplexes in arranging chromatin structure and local/global level.
Functional Validation of SAM Riboswitch Element A fromListeria monocytogenes
Authors: Hall Ian , Zablock Kaitlyn , Sobetski Raeleen , Weidmann Chase A. , Keane Sarah C.
Published: May 2024

SreA is one of seven candidateS-adenosyl methionine (SAM) class I riboswitches identified inListeria monocytogenes, a saprophyte and opportunistic foodborne pathogen. SAM is essential to all domains of life, serving as a ubiquitous methyl donor and mediator of trans-sulfuration. SreA precedes genes encoding a methionine ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter, which imports methionine, a sulfur containing amino acid and substrate for sulfur metabolism. SreA is presumed to regulate transcription of its downstream genes in a SAM-dependent manner. The proposed role of SreA in controlling the transcription of genes encoding an ABC transporter complex may have important implications for how the bacteria senses and responds to the availability of the metabolite SAM in the diverse environments in whichL. monocytogenespersists. Here we validate SreA as a functional SAM-I riboswitch through ligand binding studies, structure characterization, and transcription termination assays. We determined that SreA has both a similar structure and SAM binding properties to other well characterized SAM-I riboswitches. Interestingly, SreA regulates transcription at a distinctly lower (nM) ligand concentration than other SAM riboswitches but does not substantially terminate transcription, even in the presence of mM SAM.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
How do institutional dimensions of open government data affect innovation? Evidence from research institutes in China
Authors: Mu Rui , Zhao Xiaxia
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the individual and binary (i.e. combined) effects of institutional dimensions of open government data (which include instructional, structural and accessible rules) on scientific research innovation, as well as the mediating roles that researchers' perceived data usefulness and data capability play in between.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 1,092 respondents, this study uses partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and polynomial regression with response surface analysis to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of individual and binary institutional dimensions on scientific research innovation.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that instructional, structural and restricted access data have a positive effect on scientific research innovation in the individual effect. While the binary effect of institutional dimensions produces varying degrees of scientific research innovation. Furthermore, this study discovers that the perceived usefulness and data capability of researchers differ in the mediating effect of institutional dimensions on scientific research innovation.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study contributes new knowledge on the causal links between data publication institutions and innovation. Practically, the research findings offer government data managers timely suggestions on how to build up institutions to foster greater data usage.
Impact of Sharia hospital service standards and religiosity commitment on patient satisfaction and loyalty: insights from certified Sharia hospital in Indonesia
Authors: Ngatindriatun Ngatindriatun , Alfarizi Muhammad , Widiastuti Tika
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the influence of the dimensions of Sharia hospital service standards, religiosity commitment and trust of Muslim patients on attitudes and satisfaction, as well as the implications of loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was carried out by analyzing data obtained from a survey with purposive sampling techniques with 425 patients in an Indonesian-certified Sharia hospital and analyzing it using partial least squares structural equation modeling software to test the path modeling and the relationship between the instruments.

Findings

This study shows that hospital amenities, doctor’s services, nurses’ services, health-care technicalities and hospital environmental and administrative behavior affect patient satisfaction. In addition, religiosity and trust in encouraging patient attitudes determine patient satisfaction. High satisfaction points will increase loyalty to Sharia hospitals.

Research limitations/implications

This study encourages managers to maximize the quality of humanist Islamic medical services and the infrastructure of comfortable facilities. In addition, hospitals need to improve their holistic atmosphere, technical services and administrative behavior so that they can become essential value for hospital marketing – the development of competence and ethical behavior of health workers through various training programs internally and externally.

Originality/value

This study presents the determination of Sharia hospital service standards accompanied by a commitment to religiosity and trust as a psychological perspective of Muslim patients on attitudes and satisfaction and its implications on the brand loyalty of Indonesian Sharia hospitals that have been officially certified.
E-waste prediction and optimal route selection using adaptive deep Markov random field and block chain
Authors: Santhuja P. , Anbarasu V.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

An efficient e-waste management system is developed, aided by deep learning techniques. Here, a smart bin system using Internet of things (IoT) sensors is generated. The sensors detect the level of waste in the dustbin. The data collected by the IoT sensor is stored in the blockchain. Here, an adaptive deep Markov random field (ADMRF) method is implemented to determine the weight of the wastes. The performance of the ADMRF is boosted by optimizing its parameters with the help of the improved corona virus herd immunity optimization algorithm (ICVHIOA). Here, the main objective of the developed ADMRF-based waste weight prediction is to minimize the root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) rate at the time of testing. If the weight of the bins is more than 80%, then an alert message will be sent to the waste collector directly. Optimal route selection is carried out using the developed ICVHIOA for efficient collection of wastes from the smart bin. Here, the main objectives of the optimal route selection are to reduce the distance and time to minimize the operational cost and the environmental impacts. The collected waste is then considered for recycling. The performance of the implemented IoT and blockchain-based smart dustbin is evaluated by comparing it with other existing smart dustbins for e-waste management.

Design/methodology/approach

The developed e-waste management system is used to collect the waste and to avoid certain diseases caused by the dumped waste. Disposal and recycling of the e-waste is necessary to decrease pollution and to manufacture new products from the waste.

Findings

The RMSE of the implemented framework was 33.65% better than convolutional neural network (CNN), 27.12% increased than recurrent neural network (RNN), 22.27% advanced than Resnet and 9.99% superior to long short-term memory (LSTM).

Originality/value

The proposed E-waste management system has given an enhanced performance rate in weight prediction and also in optimal route selection when compared with other conventional methods.
IP, limited release and premium consumption: evidence from Generation Z
Authors: Lei Bing , Chang Yue , Liu Wei , Shi Saihua
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of IP (Intellectual Property) on the intention for premium consumption of Generation Z, and to construct a theoretical model of IP on the premium consumption of Generation Z. Based on the results of the study, it provides better marketing suggestions to merchants, and is an expansion of previous research on the consumption behavior of Generation Z.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper contains two empirical tests and one experimental analysis. First, this study crawl over 5,000 pieces of Generation Z’s consumption data from Poizon, an e-commerce platform and exclusive trending community for Generation Z. Second, this study designs a two-group online experiment to collect 292 valid data from members of the Generation Z. The authors use Stata software for multiple linear regression, t-tests, and ANOVA to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results of the data analysis show that IP has a significant positive effect on the premium consumption intention of Generation Z, and the limited release strategy positively moderates the effect. Self-image congruence and social identification play mediating role in the influence of IP on Generation Z’s premium consumption.

Originality/value

First, this study finds a link between IP and commodity premiums, which is the first study to explore the effect of IP on commodity price changes. Second, this study is the first to examine the marketing science value of IP using a combination of empirical tests and experimental analysis. These fill research gaps. Finally, the mechanism of IP’s influence on Generation Z’s premium consumption is revealed, enriching the literature on Generation Z’s consumption behavior.
AI Open research Plagiarism Dupli Checker, Scribbr Plagiarism Checker, Quetext, Small SEO Tools Plagiarism Checker Web Technology: comparative study
Authors: Negi Dheeraj Singh , Pandey Praveen Kumar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper mainly aims to explore the AI Open research Plagiarism Dupli Checker, Scribbr Plagiarism Checker, Quetext and Small SEO Tools Plagiarism Checker and provides a comparative study about the features and benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides a check list for AI Open research Plagiarism Dupli Checker, Scribbr Plagiarism Checker, Quetext and Small SEO Tools Plagiarism Checker according to the features and limitations.

Findings

After the analysis, it is found that DupliChecker scans up to 1,000 words per check; Scribbr, authorized partner of Turnitin, scans up to paid bases; Quetext offers free 500-word plagiarism and Small SEO Tools scans up to 1,000 words per check. The limitations noted are as follows: Dupli Checker provides limited checks per month, Quetext offers limited free scan and Small SEO Tools have limited features compared to other options.

Research limitations/implications

This study shows the comparative study of AI Plagiarism online tools and is very useful for researchers and learners. The value of this study is to improve the user’s experience and performance of AI plagiarism.

Originality/value

This study shows the comparative study of AI Plagiarism online tools and is very useful for researchers and learners. This study finds out the user experience and awareness accessibility about the performance of open AI plagiarism feature and function.
Accurately predicting rare and poorly detectable species habitat for spatial protection
Authors: Elliott Sophie A. M. , Dubost Gaspard , Rivot Etienne , Acou Anthony , Toison Vincent , Réveillac Elodie , Beaulaton Laurent
Published: May 2024

With the loss of biodiversity worldwide, understanding species distribution is essential for species management, but modelling the distribution of rare and poorly detectable species can be challenging because of data gaps and observer biases. Over‐ or under‐predictions are frequent, leading to uncertainty in spatial management measures, particularly for highly mobile and data‐poor species.

Here we developed a ‘Combined Model for Accurate Prediction’ to accurately predict the distribution of data‐poor and rare species. This modelling framework aims to improve the accuracy of both predicted ‘core’ and ‘unsuitable’ habitats, to help support managers with spatial protection measures. We tested the combined modelling approach on 11 data‐poor and rare diadromous fish during their at‐sea life history phase and used the combined model to analyse the adequacy of existing marine protected areas (MPAs) for these fish.

The combined modelling approach modelled both ‘core’ and ‘unsuitable’ habitats with high accuracy. Of the seven diadromous species modelled, most MPAs designated to protect diadromous fish are outside their core habitats. Furthermore, when their core habitat was within an MPA, only 50% of this area was designated to protect them. These results highlight inadequate protection of the existing networks of MPAs for protected and threatened species.

Synthesis and applications. Being able to accurately model species distribution is critical to reliable and transparent biodiversity and conservation assessments. By modelling accurate ‘core’ and ‘unsuitable’ habitats with models that minimise omission and commission rates respectively, conservation measures could be targeted in specific spatial areas that maximise the protection of rare and poorly detected species. This method therefore helps minimise impacts on stakeholders, while providing managers with increased confidence in the model predictions.
Back to the Future? Rishi Sunak's Industrial Strategy
Authors: Silverwood James , Woodward Richard
Published: May 2024

Since becoming Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak has been variously described as pursuing a ‘furtive’, ‘surreptitious’ and ‘apologetic’ industrial strategy. Terms such as industrial policy and industrial strategy have been expunged from official speeches and policy documents, yet industrial intervention remains widespread. In adopting this approach, the article argues that Sunak has returned the UK to an industrial policy consensus established under Thatcherism. This consensus places in the foreground pro‐market rhetoric and policies suggesting that industrial strategy should be limited to the correction of market failure, while in the background the state actively intervenes to shape the structure of the economy by ‘picking winners’. In following this approach, Sunak has a legitimate claim to be the heir to Thatcher's legacy, although not in the manner that either its celebrants or critics believe.
Show Me the Money! Supply and Demand Misalignment for Tangible Rewards in Business*
Authors: Stubbs Kyle M. , Bentley Jeremiah W.
Published: May 2024

In incentive contracts, supervisors often set targets for employee performance, while employees decide the effort they are willing to exert to meet the target and earn the incentive. Both supervisors and employees make judgments about the value of incentives in terms of effort required or expended. Recent research on incentive types investigates employee effort in response to tangible and cash rewards under the premise that they may be valued differently by employees. We extend this research by investigating whether supervisors and employees make different effort‐related decisions in response to tangible and cash rewards. Specifically, relying on construal‐level theory, we predict that supervisors will favor tangible rewards relative to cash more than employees will. We conduct a lab experiment where we ask participants to take the role of either supervisor or employee. We manipulate the reward type (tangible or cash) and measure how much work supervisors demand and employees are willing to provide to obtain the reward. As predicted, we find that the tangible rewards, relative to cash, increase supervisors' target setting significantly more than employee effort levels. Our results offer implications for real‐world incentive compensation design.
Unveiling ceramide dynamics: Shedding light on healthy aging in growth hormone‐releasing hormone knockout mice
Authors: Lasher Alexander Tate , Wang Liping , Hyun Jooyoung , Summers Scott A. , Sun Liou Y.
Published: May 2024

Dysregulation of growth hormone (GH) signaling consistently leads to increased lifespan in laboratory rodents, yet the precise mechanisms driving this extension remain unclear. Understanding the molecular underpinnings of the beneficial effects associated with GH deficiency could unveil novel therapeutic targets for promoting healthy aging and longevity. In our pursuit of identifying metabolites implicated in aging, we conducted an unbiased lipidomic analysis of serum samples from growth hormone‐releasing hormone knockout (GHRH‐KO) female mice and their littermate controls. Employing a targeted lipidomic approach, we specifically investigated ceramide levels in GHRH‐KO mice, a well‐established model of enhanced longevity. While younger GHRH‐KO mice did not exhibit notable differences in serum lipids, older counterparts demonstrated significant reductions in over one‐third of the evaluated lipids. In employing the same analysis in liver tissue, GHRH‐KO mice showed pronounced downregulation of numerous ceramides and hexosylceramides, which have been shown to elicit many of the tissue defects that accompany aging (e.g., insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and cell death). Additionally, gene expression analysis in the liver tissue of adult GHRH‐KO mice identified substantial decreases in several ceramide synthesis genes, indicating that these alterations are, at least in part, attributed to GHRH‐KO‐induced transcriptional changes. These findings provide the first evidence of disrupted ceramide metabolism in a long‐lived mammal. This study sheds light on the intricate connections between GH deficiency, ceramide levels, and the molecular mechanisms influencing lifespan extension.
The TREK‐1 potassium channel is a potential pharmacological target for vasorelaxation in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Csáki Réka , Nagaraj Chandran , Almássy János , Khozeimeh Mohammad Ali , Jeremic Dusan , Olschewski Horst , Dobolyi Alice , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Olschewski Andrea , Enyedi Péter , Lengyel Miklós
Published: May 2024

Background and purpose

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease in which chronic membrane potential (Em) depolarisation of the pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) causes calcium overload, a key pathological alteration. Under resting conditions, the negative Em is mainly set by two pore domain potassium (K2P) channels, of which the TASK‐1 has been extensively investigated.

Experimental Approach

Ion channel currents and membrane potential of primary cultured human(h) PASMCs were measured using the voltage‐ and current clamp methods. Intracellular [Ca2+] was monitored using fluorescent microscopy. Pulmonary BP and vascular tone measurements were also performed ex vivo using a rat PAH model.

Key Results

TREK‐1 was the most abundantly expressed K2P in hPASMCs of healthy donors and idiopathic(I) PAH patients. Background K+‐current was similar in hPASMCs for both groups and significantly enhanced by the TREK activator ML‐335. In donor hPASMCs, siRNA silencing or pharmacological inhibition of TREK‐1 caused depolarisation, reminiscent of the electrophysiological phenotype of idiopathic PAH. ML‐335 hyperpolarised donor hPASMCs and normalised the Em of IPAH hPASMCs. A close link was found between TREK‐1 activity and intracellular Ca2+‐signalling using a channel activator, ML‐335, and an inhibitor, spadin. In the rat, ML‐335 relaxed isolated pre‐constricted pulmonary arteries and significantly decreased pulmonary arterial pressure in the isolated perfused lung.

Conclusions and Implications

These data suggest that TREK‐1is a key factor in Em setting and Ca2+ homeostasis of hPASMC, and therefore, essential for maintenance of a low resting pulmonary vascular tone. Thus TREK‐1 may represent a new therapeutic target for PAH.
A real‐time decision support system to improve operations in electric bus networks
Authors: Abdelwahed Ayman , van den Berg Pieter L. , Brandt Tobias , Ketter Wolfgang
Published: May 2024

Electrifying transit bus networks (TBNs) has recently become a challenging problem that many public transport operators around the world are facing. Due to the limited driving range of electric buses, electric TBNs are more sensitive to operational delays and uncertainties. Moreover, the impact on sustainability is most profound when the buses are powered by renewable energy resources, which are often subject to intermittency and uncertainty. In this work, we tackle the complicated problem of planning charging schedules amid these various sources of uncertainty. We develop a real‐time decision support system that uses real‐time data, predictions, and mathematical optimization to update the charging schedules and mitigate the impact of operational uncertainties. Our results show that the online strategy can maintain higher reliability and renewable energy utilization levels compared to other charging strategies. The study has been carried out in cooperation with the public transport operator in Rotterdam in the Netherlands to assist them in their TBN transition process.
Does in vitro hemolysis affect measurements of plasma apixaban concentration by UPLC‐MS and anti‐Xa assay?
Authors: Røed‐Undlien Henriette , Schultz Nina Haagenrud , Amundsen Erik Koldberg , Wollmann Birgit M. , Molden Espen , Akerkar Rupali R. , Bjørnstad Johannes Lagethon
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hemolytic interference may impact various laboratory tests, including coagulation analyses. Apixaban is the most commonly used direct oral anticoagulant in Norway, and there is lacking knowledge on how apixaban concentration measurements might be influenced by hemolysis. Moreover, hemolysis‐induced alterations in apixaban levels could potentially impact the risk of bleeding in specific clinical scenarios. We wanted to study whether hemolysis would increase apixaban concentration and investigate the impact of hemolytic interference on apixaban concentration measurements.

Methods

Blood samples from 20 apixaban‐treated patients and 8 healthy controls were hemolyzed in vitro by a freeze method. The degree of hemolysis was measured with plasma free hemoglobin (PfHb) at baseline and two levels of hemolysis. Apixaban concentration was measured in plasma using both the chromogenic anti‐Xa method and the ultraperformance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS). Thrombin generation assay was performed to assess coagulability.

Results

UPLC‐MS measurements showed a mean concentration change of −1.66% (±3.2%, p = 0.005) and anti‐Xa assay showed a mean concentration change of 3.37% (±6.5%, p = 0.09) with increasing hemolysis. Thrombin generation lagtime decreased, and endogenous thrombin potential and peak thrombin increased with increasing hemolysis in both the control group and the apixaban group.

Conclusion

Apixaban concentration measurements by anti‐Xa assay and UPLC‐MS were not affected by hemolysis to a clinically relevant extent. Furthermore, hemolysis did not lead to hypocoagulability when assessed by thrombin generation.
TH1L involvement in colorectal cancer pathogenesis by regulation of CCL20 through the NF‐κB signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Shaochang , Sun Yujing , Li Chunya , Chong Yueyang , Ai Meihong , Wang Yanxia , Shi Haiyun , Shang Yu
Published: May 2024

TH1L (also known as NELF‐C/D) is a member of the Negative Elongation Factor (NELF) complex, which is a metazoan‐specific factor that regulates RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII) pausing and transcription elongation. However, the function and molecular mechanisms of TH1L in cancer progression are still largely unknown. In this study, we found that TH1L was highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues and the faeces of CRC patients. Overexpression of TH1L significantly enhanced the proliferation and migration of CRC cells, while its knockdown markedly suppressed these processes. In mechanism, RNA sequencing revealed that CCL20 was upregulated in TH1L‐overexpressed CRC cells, leading to activation of the NF‐κB signalling pathway. Rescue assays showed that knockdown of CCL20 could impair the tumour‐promoting effects of THIL in CRC cells. Taken together, these results suggest that TH1L may play a vital role via the CCL20/NF‐κB signalling pathway in CRC proliferation and migration and may serve as a potential target for diagnosis and therapy of CRC.
Larger yellow‐phase Japanese eels show short‐range homing in a freshwater river
Authors: Mitamura Hiromichi , Takagi Junichi , Itaya Yoshimi , Watanabe Shun , Kume Manabu
Published: May 2024

The homing behavior and site fidelity to habitats in various fishes, including anguillid eels (genus Anguilla), are fascinating. However, little is known about how yellow‐phase eels exhibit homing behavior and the sensory mechanisms involved. Using acoustic telemetry, we investigated the homing behavior of 18 Japanese eels, A. japonica, with total lengths ranging from 204 to 570 mm, in a narrow freshwater river in inland central Japan, where salinity gradient, tidal current, and magnetic sense cannot be used for their homing, but where olfaction could play a role. The tagged eels captured upstream and downstream were released downstream and upstream, respectively. The results showed that large eels, over approximately 400 mm in total length, exhibited homing behavior to their original sampling locations (likely to shelters and foraging sites, where they probably spent a longer time than in other locations and grew successfully) from outside their home ranges, predominantly during the dark period. Homing success was not affected by the two capture locations, indicating that eels did not use olfactory cues for short‐range homing in freshwater rivers.
Self‐care rhetoric and institutional culpability: Theorizing the academy and intellectual labor
Authors: Cabaniss Emily R. , Davis Shannon N. , Parrotta Kylie L.
Published: May 2024

Self‐care, a ubiquitous concept commonly touted as the solution to an array of modern‐day problems, implies unapologetic selfishness aimed at preserving mental, emotional, and physical health. The overtly individualistic framing in its most common usage—the centering of oneself for the sake of oneself—obscures power relations and structural/institutional inequalities that create the need for self‐care. To deal with difficult work or family lives, taking up a hobby or some kind of diversion offers an escape that feels good; self‐care serves as a kind of coping mechanism, but not a solution to a social problem. It also lets society, or more specifically, managers and administrators in organizations, off the hook because it places the onus on individuals to deal with challenges on their own rather than situating them as social problems. We critique shortcomings in self‐care rhetoric employed by organizations—and specifically university administrators—to their members, by extending Hochschild's economy of gratitude framework.