bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PVC Variability and Impact on Meeting Expert Consensus Cutoffs of ≥10,000 PVCs/day and ≥15% PVCs
Authors: Amara Richard S. , Appelbaum Jason , Abutaleb Ameer , Vunnam Rama , Shorofsky Stephen R. , Rottman Jeffrey N. , Kacorri Ardit , Dickfeld Timm M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Frequent PVCs have been associated with a reversible cardiomyopathy. Cutoffs of ≥10,000 PVCs/day and ≥15% PVCs have been suggested by the 2014 EHRA/HRS/APHRS and 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS Expert Consensus guidelines, respectively, for PVC suppression.

Methods

606 patients with 14 day ZIO® monitor datasets with ≥10,000 PVCs on at least one day were identified (2014 Guidelines Cohort). Of these patients, 325 had at least one day of ≥15% PVCs (2017 Guidelines Cohort). Analysis was performed on these cohorts to investigate the impact of PVC variability on meeting guideline thresholds.

Results

Within the 2014 Guidelines Cohort, mean daily PVC burden was 12,188±8,300 [range 0-64,188]. Intra-patient daily PVCs were highly variable (median 3.6-fold change between max and min PVC days (Q1/3: 2.22/10.15) with instances of >10,000-fold change observed. 54.3% and 19.5% of patients had days with <5,000 and <1,000 PVCs, respectively. Even patients with days of 0 PVCs (0.5%) were observed. 72h monitoring detected 69% of patients with ≥10,000 PVCs/24h with an additional 2-4% of patients crossing the threshold each additional day. A bimodal distribution of number of days meeting PVC thresholds/corresponding PVC counts was observed, suggesting a previously unidentified pattern of distinct populations – “low frequency/low PVC” (≤3/14 above-threshold days/mean 12,342 PVCs those days) vs “high frequency/high PVC” (14/14 above-threshold days/mean 24,580 PVCs those days). The 2017 Guidelines Cohort demonstrated similar findings.

Conclusion

Daily PVC burdens vary greatly. More sensitive detection of guideline-suggested cut-offs requires prolonged monitoring. Novel potential PVC patterns may allow for better identification of candidates for PVC suppression.
Detection of risk factors of hypertension in people with sleep disorders using machine learning
Authors: Wenzhong Wu , Weixiang Liu , Ye Junlan , Yuting Zhang , Shan Qin , Xiaoqiu Wang , Xiaojie Li , Min Xu , Liyu Lin , Chengyong Liu , Xiaoyang Lian , Tao Yang
Published: June 2024

Background: Sleep disorders are one of the etiologic factors in the development of hypertension, and the risk of hypertension in patients with sleep disorders is increasing due to the increase in the prevalence of sleep disorders in recent years. We hypothesized that machine learning could establish a prediction model for hypertension in patients with sleep disorders. Methods: The data for patients diagnosed with sleep disorders were collected from two hospitals from 2019 to 2023, including medical history and biochemical indicators. After data processing, Logistic Regression, Decision Tree, Artificial Neural Network, Support Vector Machine, Naive Bayes, Adaptive Boosting, Random Forest, and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) were selected for training. Five-fold cross-validation was used to evaluate the models, and accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to verify the discrimination and clinical practicability of the models. SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) was used to explain the optimal model. Results: The XGBoost model was superior to other models, with an accuracy of 0.7216, a precision of 0.7576, a recall of 0.7660, an F1-score of 0.7430, and an AUC of 0.844. The SHAP results showed that age, weight, white blood cells, creatine, uric acid, glycosylated hemoglobin, and platelets were the risk factors of hypertension in people with sleep disorders, while high density lipoprotein cholesterol was a protective factor. Conclusion: Machine learning algorithms established a predictive risk model of hypertension in people with sleep disorders, which provides significant guidance to prevent and treat hypertension in people with sleep disorders.
A suite of enhancer AAVs and transgenic mouse lines for genetic access to cortical cell types
Authors: Ben-Simon Yoav , Hooper Marcus , Narayan Sujatha , Daigle Tanya , Dwivedi Deepanjali , Way Sharon W. , Oster Aaron , Stafford David A. , Mich John K. , Taormina Michael J. , Martinez Refugio A. , Opitz-Araya Ximena , Roth Jada R. , Allen Shona , Ayala Angela , Bakken Trygve E. , Barcelli Tyler , Barta Stuard , Bendrick Jacqueline , Bertagnolli Darren , Bowlus Jessica , Boyer Gabriella , Brouner Krissy , Casian Brittny , Casper Tamara , Chakka Anish B. , Chakrabarty Rushil , Chance Rebecca K. , Chavan Sakshi , Departee Maxwell , Donadio Nicholas , Dotson Nadezhda , Egdorf Tom , Gabitto Mariano , Garcia Jazmin , Gary Amanda , Gasperini Molly , Goldy Jeff , Gore Bryan B. , Graybuck Lucas , Greisman Noah , Haeseleer Francoise , Halterman Carliana , Helback Olivia , Hockemeyer Dirk , Huang Cindy , Huff Sydney , Hunker Avery , Johansen Nelson , Juneau Zoe , Kalmbach Brian , Khem Shannon , Kussick Emily , Kutsal Rana , Larsen Rachael , Lee Changkyu , Lee Angus Y. , Leibly Madison , Lenz Garreck H. , Liang Elizabeth , Lusk Nicholas , Malone Jocelin , Mollenkopf Tyler , Morin Elyse , Newman Dakota , Ng Lydia , Ngo Kiet , Omstead Victoria , Oyama Alana , Pham Trangthanh , Pom Christina A. , Potekhina Lydia , Ransford Shea , Rette Dean , Rimorin Christine , Rocha Dana , Ruiz Augustin , Sanchez Raymond E.A. , Sedeno-Cortes Adriana , Sevigny Joshua P. , Shapovalova Nadiya , Shulga Lyudmila , Sigler Ana R. , Siverts La’ Akea , Somasundaram Saroja , Stewart Kaiya , Szelenyi Eric , Tieu Michael , Trader Cameron , van Velthoven Cindy T.J. , Walker Miranda , Weed Natalie , Wirthlin Morgan , Wood Toren , Wynalda Brooke , Yao Zizhen , Zhou Thomas , Ariza Jeanelle , Dee Nick , Reding Melissa , Ronellenfitch Kara , Mufti Shoaib , Sunkin Susan M. , Smith Kimberly A. , Esposito Luke , Waters Jack , Thyagarajan Bargavi , Yao Shenqin , Lein Ed S. , Zeng Hongkui , Levi Boaz P. , Ngai John , Ting Jonathan , Tasic Bosiljka
Published: June 2024

The mammalian cortex is comprised of cells classified into types according to shared properties. Defining the contribution of each cell type to the processes guided by the cortex is essential for understanding its function in health and disease. We used transcriptomic and epigenomic cortical cell type taxonomies from mouse and human to define marker genes and putative enhancers and created a large toolkit of transgenic lines and enhancer AAVs for selective targeting of cortical cell populations. We report evaluation of fifteen new transgenic driver lines, two new reporter lines, and >800 different enhancer AAVs covering most subclasses of cortical cells. The tools reported here as well as the scaled process of tool creation and modification enable diverse experimental strategies towards understanding mammalian cortex and brain function.
C-LTMRs mediate wet dog shakes via the spinoparabrachial pathway
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Turecek Josef , Choi Seungwon , Delisle Michelle , Pamplona Caroline L. , Meltzer Shan , Ginty David D.
Published: June 2024

Mammals perform rapid oscillations of their body- “wet dog shakes” -to remove water and irritants from their back hairy skin. The somatosensory mechanisms underlying this stereotypical behavior are unknown. We report that Piezo2-dependent mechanosensation mediates wet dog shakes evoked by water or oil droplets applied to hairy skin of mice. Unmyelinated low-threshold mechanoreceptors (C-LTMRs) were strongly activated by oil droplets and their optogenetic activation elicited wet dog shakes. Ablation of C-LTMRs attenuated this behavior. Moreover, C-LTMRs synaptically couple to spinoparabrachial (SPB) neurons, and optogenetically inhibiting SPB neuron synapses and excitatory neurons in the parabrachial nucleus impaired both oil droplet- and C-LTMR-evoked wet dog shakes. Thus, a C-LTMR– spinoparabrachial pathway mediates wet dog shakes for rapid and effective removal of foreign particles from back hairy skin.
Congenital heart defects differ following left versus right avian cardiac neural crest ablation
Authors: Solovieva Tatiana , Bronner Marianne E.
Published: June 2024

The cardiac neural crest is critical for the normal development of the heart, as its surgical ablation in the chick recapitulates common human congenital heart defects such as ‘Common Arterial Trunk’ and ‘Double Outlet Right Ventricle’ (DORV). While left-right asymmetry is known to be important for heart development, little is known about potential asymmetric differences between right and left cardiac neural folds with respect to heart development. Here, through surgical ablation of either left or right cardiac neural crest, we find that right ablation results in more varied and more severe heart defects. Embryos with Common Arterial Trunk and with missing arteries occurred in right-ablated embryos but were not observed in left-ablated embryos; moreover, embryos with DORV and with misalignment of the arteries were more prevalent following right versus left cardiac crest ablation. In addition, survival of right-ablated embryos was lower than left-ablated embryos. Together, these data raise the intriguing possibility that there may be differences in left versus right cardiac neural crest during heart development.
Dbf4-Dependent Kinase Finetunes INO80 Function at Chromosome Replication Origins
Authors: Bansal Priyanka , Lahiri Shibojyoti , Kumar Chandni , Galanti Lorenzo , Chacin Erika , Ortíz-Bazán María Ángeles , Müller Marisa , Vizjak Petra , Straub Tobias , Müller-Planitz Felix , Aguilera Andrés , Gómez-González Belen , Pfander Boris , Imhof Axel , Kurat Christoph F.
Published: June 2024

The highly conserved Dbf4-Dependent Kinase (DDK) plays a pivotal role in the nucleus during S phase, where it directly phosphorylates the replicative helicase, the minichromosome maintenance (MCM) complex. This leads to the initiation of chromosome replication. However, aside from the MCM complex, few other targets have been identified to date, leaving DDK an understudied kinase.

Here, we describe a two-pronged mass spectrometry-based approach and define the nuclear DDK-dependent phosphoproteome, which consists of approximately 400 phosphorylation events. Within this network, we found that DDK directly phosphorylates the Arp8 subunit of the multi-subunit chromatin remodeler complex INO80. Arp8 phosphorylation stabilises INO80’s intramolecular complex integrity, which finetunes its nucleosome spacing activity at replication origins. This adjustment of origin chromatin architecture stimulates replication and is important for the response to replication stress. Our results represent a significant advance in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of replication origins.
Experience-dependent predictions of feedforward and contextual information in mouse visual cortex
Authors: Seignette Koen , de Kraker Leander , Papale Paolo , Petro Lucy S. , Hobo Barbara , Montijn Jorrit S. , Self Matthew W. , Larkum Matthew E. , Roelfsema Pieter R. , Muckli Lars , Levelt Christiaan N.
Published: June 2024

Neurons in primary visual cortex are driven by feedforward visual inputs and top-down contextual inputs. The nature of this contextual information is difficult to study, as responses to feedforward and top-down inputs overlap in time and are difficult to disentangle experimentally. To address this issue, we measured responses to natural images and partially occluded versions of these images in the visual cortex of mice. Assessing neuronal responses before and after familiarizing mice with the non-occluded images allowed us to study experience-dependent and stimulus-specific contextual responses in pyramidal cells (PyCs) in cortical layers 2/3 and 5 in the absence of feedforward input. Surprisingly, in the same retinotopic region of cortex, we found that separate populations of PyCs in layer 2/3 responded to occluded and non-occluded images. Responses of PyCs selective for occluded images were strengthened upon familiarization and decoding analysis revealed they contained image-specific information, suggesting that they signaled the absence of predicted visual stimuli. Responses of PyCs selective for non-occluded scenes were weaker for familiarized images but stronger for unfamiliar images, suggesting that these neurons signaled the presence of unpredicted visual stimuli. Layer 5 also contained PyCs preferring either feedforward or contextual inputs, but their responses were more complex and strengthening of responses to occluded images required task engagement. The results show that visual experience decreases the activity of neurons responding to known feedforward inputs but increases the activity of neurons responding to contextual inputs tied to expected stimuli.
A minimally invasive thrombotic stroke model to study circadian rhythm in awake mice
Authors: Marks Kimberly , Ahn Sung-Ji , Rai Ninamma , Anfray Antoine , Iadecola Costantino , Anrather Josef
Published: June 2024

Experimental stroke models in rodents are essential for mechanistic studies and therapeutic development. However, these models have several limitations negatively impacting their translational relevance. Here we aimed to develop a minimally invasive thrombotic stroke model through magnetic particle delivery that does not require craniotomy, is amenable to reperfusion therapy, can be combined with in vivo imaging modalities, and can be performed in awake mice. We found that the model results in reproducible cortical infarcts within the middle cerebral artery (MCA) with cytologic and immune changes similar to that observed with more invasive distal MCA occlusion models. Importantly, the injury produced by the model was ameliorated by tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) administration. We also show that MCA occlusion in awake animals results in bigger ischemic lesions independent of day/night cycle. Magnetic particle delivery had no overt effects on physiologic parameters and systemic immune biomarkers. In conclusion, we developed a novel stroke model in mice that fulfills many requirements for modeling human stroke.
Mass Generation and Long-term Expansion of Hepatobiliary Organoids from Adult Primary Human Hepatocytes
Authors: Marsee Ary , Ritchie Arabela , Myszczyszyn Adam , Ye Shicheng , Chang Jung-Chin , Ardisasmita Arif Ibrahim , Joore Indi P , Castro-Alpizar Jose , Fuchs Sabine A , Schneeberger Kerstin , Spee Bart
Published: June 2024

Adult primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) are the gold standard in ex vivo toxicological studies and possess the clinical potential to treat patients with liver disease as advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs). However, the utility of this valuable cell type has been limited by short-term functionality and limited expansion potential in vitro. While notable advances have been made in the long-term maintenance of primary hepatocytes, there has been limited success in driving the efficient generation and expansion of adult PHH-derived organoids which recapitulate both liver tissue architecture and function, hampering in vitro studies and regenerative medicine applications. Here we describe the mass generation and long-term expansion of hepatobiliary organoids with functionally interconnected hepatic and biliary-like structures from adult primary human hepatocytes. Hepatobiliary organoids retain the expression of lineage and functional markers, closely resembling PHH, while also acquiring the expression of regeneration, fetal and biliary markers. Organoids perform key hepatocyte functions while proliferating and can be matured to enhance their functionality. As a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate that hepatobiliary organoids can recapitulate hallmarks of cholestasis and steatosis in vitro. Moreover, we show that hepatocytes can be transfected, transduced and gene edited in 3D prior to organoid generation, facilitating a wide range of applications. Our novel hepatobiliary organoid system bridges the gap between short-term functionality of primary human hepatocytes and the need for scalable, long-term organoid models of the adult liver, offering immense potential for drug testing, disease modeling, and advanced therapeutic applications.
Activity-Dependent Remodeling of Corticostriatal Axonal Boutons During Motor Learning
Authors: Sheng Mengjun , Lu Di , Sheng Kaiwen , Ding Jun B
Published: June 2024

Motor skill learning induces long-lasting synaptic plasticity at not only the inputs, such as dendritic spines1–4, but also at the outputs to the striatum of motor cortical neurons5,6. However, very little is known about the activity and structural plasticity of corticostriatal axons during learning in the adult brain. Here, we used longitudinal in vivo two-photon imaging to monitor the activity and structure of thousands of corticostriatal axonal boutons in the dorsolateral striatum in awake mice. We found that learning a new motor skill induces dynamic regulation of axonal boutons. The activities of motor corticostriatal axonal boutons exhibited selectivity for rewarded movements (RM) and un-rewarded movements (UM). Strikingly, boutons on the same axonal branches showed diverse responses during behavior. Motor learning significantly increased the fraction of RM boutons and reduced the heterogeneity of bouton activities. Moreover, motor learning-induced profound structural dynamism in boutons. By combining structural and functional imaging, we identified that newly formed axonal boutons are more likely to exhibit selectivity for RM and are stabilized during motor learning, while UM boutons are selectively eliminated. Our results highlight a novel form of plasticity at corticostriatal axons induced by motor learning, indicating that motor corticostriatal axonal boutons undergo dynamic reorganization that facilitates the acquisition and execution of motor skills.
Does prosperity pay? Unraveling the relationship between economic performance and life expectancy across a large number of European regions, 2008-2019
Authors: Sauerberg Markus , Cilek Laura Ann , Mühlichen Michael , Bonnet Florian , Alliger Ina , Camarda Carlo Giovanni
Published: June 2024

Understanding the relationship between life expectancy at birth (e0) and the gross domestic product per capita (GDPpc) is relevant for cohesion policies in the European Union (EU), because it might imply that economic convergence (or divergence) is accompanied by narrowing (or widening) health gaps. Previous studies have studied the association between GDPpc ande0almost exclusively based on national data. However, it is certainly relevant to add a subnational dimension, because levels and trends in bothe0and GDPpc vary substantially across Europe’s regions. Accordingly, the aim of our study is examining whether the economic performance of a region is correlated to theire0level. To do so, we collected official mortality and population counts from national statistical offices and information on GDPpc from the Eurostat database for 506 regions in 21 European countries from 2008 to 2019. Using this data, we built Preston curves from regression models. Our results suggest that there is indeed a positive association between GDPpc ande0. Similarly to Preston’s original analysis, we observe an upward shift in the curve, indicating that factors exogenous to a region’s GDPpc level also play an important role in explaininge0gains. Yet, the relationship differs between geographical areas, and we also find examples, such as women in Germany, Austria, Poland, and the Netherlands, where the relationship/pattern does not seem to hold.
A scalable and modular computational pipeline for axonal connectomics: automated tracing and assembly of axons across serial sections
Authors: Torres Russel , Takasaki Kevin , Gliko Olga , Laughland Connor , Yu Wan-Qing , Turschak Emily , Hellevik Ayana , Balaram Pooja , Perlman Eric , Sümbül Uygar , Reid R. Clay
Published: June 2024

Progress in histological methods and in microscope technology has enabled dense staining and imaging of axons over large brain volumes, but tracing axons over such volumes requires new computational tools for 3D reconstruction of data acquired from serial sections. We have developed a computational pipeline for automated tracing and volume assembly of densely stained axons imaged over serial sections, which leverages machine learning-based segmentation to enable stitching and alignment with the axon traces themselves. We validated this segmentation-driven approach to volume assembly and alignment of individual axons over centimeter-scale serial sections and show the application of the output traces for analysis of local orientation and for proofreading over aligned volumes. The pipeline is scalable, and combined with recent advances in experimental approaches, should enable new studies of mesoscale connectivity and function over the whole human brain.
Epidemiological Study Of Foot And Mouth Diseases Through Serological And Molecular Investigation In Cattle Of Selected Districts, Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tegegne Hailehizeb , Ababulgu Seid , Ejigu Eyoel
Published: June 2024

Foot and mouth disease is highly contagious and notifiable transboundary disease of cattle that can cause a huge cattle productivity and production loss. A cross-sectional study was performed to estimate sero prevalence, assess associated risk factors and molecular detection of FMDV in cattle. Cluster sampling technique was employed for the selection of sampling units for the seroprevalence study. A total of 245 blood samples were collected using plain vacutainer tubes and the obtained sera were tested by 3ABC-Ab ELISA at the Animal Health institute. Twenty nine (29) epithelial tissue and vesicular fluid samples were collected purposively from outbreak cases for the molecular detection of FMDV. Kebeles and individual cattle were randomly selected, while households were designated using systematic random sampling method. An overall prevalence of 22.45% (95%, CI=17.22%-27.67%) was recorded. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that herd size, age, new animal introduction into the herd and management system were the major risk factors, significantly associated with FMD sero positivity (P<0.05). The large herd size had 4-times (OR=3.97; P=0.000) more odds of FMD sero-positivity compared to the small herd sizes. The FMD seropositivity decreases 0.11013 as the Cattle age increases by 5years with the (coefficient=-0.11; P=0.172). The animals from herd to which new animals was introduced had nearly 9-times more odds (OR=9.40; P=0.000) of sero positivity than the animals sampled from no new animal introduction. Likewise, cattle those reared under extensive management system were 4-times (OR=4.10; P=0.009) at higher chance of being sero-positive compared to the intensive one. From outbreak cases, 27 (93.1%) were identified positive for FMDV serotype SAT 2. A total of 124 individuals were interviewed, and the majority responded that there is no practice of reporting disease outbreak, free animal movement, free rangeland grazing and they use traditional case management as a means of controlling the disease. The finding of FMD virus antibodies in cattle from all study areas indicate endemic circulation of the virus. The implementation of regular vaccination could minimize the occurrence and further molecular characterization should be needed to identify other serotypes of FMD virus that could inform to supply an appropriate vaccine to the area.
Orbital Ingredients and Persistent Dirac Surface State for the Topological Band Structure in
FeTe0.55Se0.45
Authors: Li Y.-F. , Chen S.-D. , García-Díez M. , Iraola M. I. , Pfau H. , Zhu Y.-L. , Mao Z.-Q. , Chen T. , Yi M. , Dai P.-C. , Sobota J. A. , Hashimoto M. , Vergniory M. G. , Lu D.-H. , Shen Z.-X.
Published: June 2024

FeTe0.55Se0.45 (FTS) occupies a special spot in modern condensed matter physics at the intersections of electron correlation, topology, and unconventional superconductivity. The bulk electronic structure of FTS is predicted to be topologically nontrivial due to the band inversion between the dxz and pz bands along Γ−Z. However, there remain debates in both the authenticity of the Dirac surface states (DSSs) and the experimental deviations of band structure from the theoretical band inversion picture. Here we resolve these debates through a comprehensive angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy investigation. We first observe a persistent DSS independent of kz. Then, by comparing FTS with FeSe, which has no band inversion along Γ−Z, we identify the spectral weight fingerprint of both the presence of the pz band and the inversion between the dxz and pz bands. Furthermore, we propose a renormalization scheme for the band structure under the framework of a tight-binding model preserving crystal symmetry. Our results highlight the significant influence of correlation on modifying the band structure and make a strong case for the existence of topological band structure in this unconventional superconductor.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Selecting applications to increase the efficiency of distance learning in architectural design
Authors: Sidhom Girges , Attia Sahar , Zayed Mohammed A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

In light of the technological advancements and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational systems, universities worldwide had to find new methods to ensure that the educational process continued. In many countries, including Egypt, it has become a priority to direct their institutions toward digital transformation, using electronic means in the educational process. A set of challenges emerged in the educational process, especially in architectural learning, focusing on the design studio; problems intensified and some professors rejected the idea of distance learning, announcing their strong adherence to traditional face-to-face learning. This research aims to find a methodology that informs the choice of digital technology in architectural design courses.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers used both qualitative and quantitative methodology based on inductive, analytical, interview-questionnaire and empirical studies in Egypt.

Findings

Results show that many criteria affect the selection of proper applications. Also, using multiple applications in architecture design course helps students understand the material. However, hybrid learning is crucial in teaching architectural design since it cannot be effectively conveyed solely through distance learning.

Originality/value

The results of the research will help improve and develop the distance learning system in architectural education by proposing a methodology for choosing suitable electronic tools for architecture studio courses. These courses enhance the effectiveness of students' understanding and comprehension during the distance learning process to increase motivation for thinning development, imagination and educational skills.
Service design: a critical examination and future research directions in servitization literature
Authors: Cardoso Ana Maria Kaiser , Canciglieri Junior Osiris , Benitez Guilherme Brittes
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to deepen the understanding of the service design concept by critically analyzing the existing servitization literature. The paper’s main purpose is to structure service design and offer a clear understanding of how it should be applied.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted within servitization literature to understand the evolution of the service design concept. The authors use service design pillars (i.e. user-centered, co-creative, sequencing, evidencing and holistic) as a theoretical framework to explain how service design should be effectively incorporated into the servitization journey.

Findings

The findings expose a discordant interpretation of the pillars underpinning service design, revealing a paradoxical comprehension that jeopardizes its practical advancement within the servitization literature. The authors propose that service design should first be seen holistically, then target user-centered practices for sequencing service development steps, and finally, co-creating with partners to make the service evident to users. Furthermore, the authors contextualize service design within contemporary and traditional service-related issues such as servitization innovation, customer experience, service-dominant logic, service ecosystems and digital transformation.

Originality/value

This research pinpoints the service design concept’s shortcomings in the servitization literature. The study promotes a critical reflection on the service design concept and its current application, providing avenues for future research.
Understanding how the psychological and relational processes of a psychodynamic reflective group contribute to recovery on a medium secure ward
Authors: Woodcock Anna , Cook Andy , McGowan John
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the psychological and relational processes of a service user reflective group on a medium secure forensic ward. The group was conceptualised by the service as a component of the therapeutic offer contributing to the patients’ journey towards recovery and this study aimed to explore whether the group was being experienced as beneficial, by service users and staff, in relation to recovery concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews from 10 participants who had experience of an existing service user reflective group on a medium secure forensic ward. Participants in the study were patients who attended the group (6) and staff members who facilitated the group (4). The data collected were analysed using constructivist grounded theory methodology.

Findings

Results formed a flexible, cyclical model based on five key categories: “Group Identity”, “Linking Self with Others”, “The Changing Self”, “Living Visibly in a System” and “Moving On.”

Practical implications

Findings indicate that service user reflective groups in forensic inpatient settings can contribute to increased interpersonal effectiveness and personal recovery.

Originality/value

The role of service user reflective groups in secure recovery has not been explored empirically to date, although they are a suggested intervention to enhance relational security and to aid therapeutic progress within a secure recovery framework. This study aimed to begin to address this gap in research and understanding.
How did whistleblowing and the duty of candour get onto the agenda of the British national health service
Authors: Powell Martin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper compares how the two interacting themes of “Whistleblowing” or “Speaking Up” and the duty of candour (DoC), which are both concerned with safety and quality improvement in health care, got onto the agenda of the British National Health Service (NHS).

Design/methodology/approach

It uses the approach of multiple streams and the methodology of interpretive content analysis in a deductive approach that focusses on both manifest and latent content. It examines official documents that discuss the DoC or whistleblowing or cognate terms in connection with the British NHS from 1999 to 2019.

Findings

The main conceptual finding, which mirrors many previous studies, is that it seems difficult to operationalise many of the sub-components of the multiple streams approach. The main empirical finding points to the “focusing event” of the Francis Report into the Mid Staffordshire Trust of 2013 and the importance of its Chair, Sir Robert Francis, as a policy entrepreneur.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to focus on both issues of whistleblowing and the DoC and the first to compare them through the lens of the multiple streams approach. It has two main conceptual advantages over most previous studies in the field: it compares whistleblowing and the duty of candour rather than the dominant approach of a single case study and explores the different outcomes of failed as well as successful couplings of the streams.
The irruption of autonomous and connected vehicle technologies and the repositioning of the periphery in the European automotive industry
Authors: Lampón Jesús F. , Carballo-Cruz Francisco , Velando-Rodríguez María-Elena
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Autonomous and connected mobility technologies have led to a reconfiguration of the automotive industry value chain. This may involve an impact on the geography of the European automotive industry, especially for peripheral countries. The aim of the paper is to analyse the repositioning of a peripheral country (Portugal) in the core-periphery model of the automotive industry derived from this new technological context.

Design/methodology/approach

An eclectic theoretical framework, based on the global value chain (GVC) approach, the spatial division of labour and location theory, supports this research. Moreover, an original empirical study was developed. This study comprised a comparative analysis of two samples of firms based on the key variables related to country position. One sample comprised Portuguese traditional automotive firms and the other Portuguese firms linked to autonomous and connected mobility technologies.

Findings

The results highlight the upgrading of Portugal in the European core-periphery model of the automotive industry. This is due to the presence of domestic firms, especially multinationals, linked to autonomous and connected mobility technologies in the country. The decision power derived from their position on the first levels of supply and the added value of activities and technological innovation of these new actors change the role of the country in the European automotive industry. The main implication is that managers of domestic firms and policy makers in peripheral countries can upgrade a country’s position in the European core-periphery model by shifting its competitiveness toward knowledge-based activities linked to the new mobility technologies.

Originality/value

This research is supported by a novel eclectic theoretical framework based on the global value chain (GVC) approach, the spatial division of labour and location theory. Moreover, country position is analysed through empirical evidence. An original comparative empirical study based on the key variables defined under this theoretical framework was developed.
Role of leadership styles in connecting quality culture and university performance: a higher education perspective from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Albaroudi Hasna Balaj , Iqbal Shahzaf
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examines the influence of quality culture (QC) on university performance (UP) within the higher education (HE) context of Saudi Arabia, exploring the mediating roles of transformational (TFL) and transactional leadership (TNL) styles.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes a cross-sectional survey approach, collecting data through online surveys from administrators representing public and private universities in Saudi Arabia. Data analysis is conducted using PLS-SEM.

Findings

The findings indicate that QC exerts a notable direct influence on UP, along with an indirect effect mediated by TFL and TNL. Additionally, the influences of TFL and TNL on UP are statistically significant. However, the effect of TNL on UP and its role as a mediator in the QC-UP relationship demonstrate partial significance.

Research limitations/implications

This study enriches the theoretical comprehension of quality assurance in HE by incorporating QC as a dynamic capability within Dynamic Capability Theory and TL and TFL as valuable resources within Resource-Based View theory. However, limitations such as a cross-sectional design and reliance on input solely from university administrators must be acknowledged.

Practical implications

The study offers practical insights for policymakers, administrators, and quality managers, emphasizing the economic benefits of robust QC in universities. It highlights QC's impact on policy, curriculum development, and public trust, advocating tailored strategies to improve efficiency and collaboration, crucial for overcoming bureaucratic barriers, especially in public universities.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in introducing TFL and TNL as mediators between QC and UP within a university setting.
Structure of compound and component communities of fleas parasitic on small mammals in six different regions as revealed by environmental‐based co‐occurrence geometry analyses
Authors: KRASNOV Boris R. , GRABOVSKY Vasily I. , KHOKHLOVA Irina S. , KORALLO‐VINARSKAYA Natalia P. , LÓPEZ BERRIZBIETIA M. Fernanda , MATTHEE Sonja , SANCHEZ Juliana , STANKO Michal , VAN DER MESCHT Luther , VINARSKI Maxim V.
Published: June 2024

We inferred the patterns of co‐occurrence of flea species in compound (across all host species) and component (across conspecific hosts) communities from six regions of the world (Mongolia, Northwest Argentina, Argentinian Patagonia, West Siberia, Slovakia, and South Africa) using the novel eigenvector ellipsoid method. This method allows us to infer structural community patterns by comparing species’ environmental requirements with the pattern of their co‐occurrences. We asked whether: (a) communities are characterized by species segregation, nestedness, or modularity; (b) patterns detected by the novel method conform to the patterns identified by traditional methods that search for non‐randomness in community structure; and (c) the pattern of flea species co‐occurrences in component communities is associated with host species traits. The results of the application of the eigenvector ellipsoid method suggested that the co‐occurrence of flea species was random in all compound communities except in South Africa, where this community demonstrated a tendency to be nested. Flea species co‐occurrences were random in many component communities. Species segregation was detected in the flea community of one host, whereas the flea communities of 14 hosts from different regions appeared to be nested. No indication of a modular structure in any community was found. The nestedness of flea component communities was mainly characteristic of hosts with a low relative brain mass. We concluded that the application of this novel method that combines data on species distribution and their environmental requirements allows better identification of the community structural patterns and produces more reliable results as compared with traditional methods.
Abiotic stress responses in melon (Cucumis melo): Emerging underlying molecular mechanisms and biotechnological advances to cope with the issue
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Dong Tran , Lao Thuan Duc , Le Thuy Ai Huyen , Nguyen Nguyen Hoai
Published: June 2024

Melon (Cucumis melo), a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, is consumed worldwide. In melon cultivation, abiotic stress has been found to negatively affect crop growth and productivity. Various biotechnological approaches can be used to ameliorate stress tolerance. Previous studies have investigated the effects of major abiotic stress conditions (e.g., drought, salt, cold and heat) on melon growth and development at the phenotypic and physiological levels, and are pivotal to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying abiotic stress responses in melons. This review aims at systematically reviewing current efforts to understand the abiotic stress biology in melon plants. In addition, we discuss several approaches (e.g., fertilization, breeding, genetic engineering) that have been examined to improve melon growth and production under stressful conditions.
How effective are experienced hepatologists at staging fibrosis using non‐invasive fibrosis tests in patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease?
Authors: McPherson Stuart , Dyson Jessica K. , Jopson Laura , Masson Steven , Patel Preya , Anstee Quentin M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Sequential use of non‐invasive fibrosis tests (NITs) to identify patients with advanced hepatic fibrosis is recommended. However, it remains unclear how reliable clinicians are staging liver fibrosis using combinations of NITs.

Aim

Our aim was to assess concordance between NIT‐based ‘clinician fibrosis assessment (CFA)’ and histology in patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and compare this with established algorithmic approaches.

Methods

Six experienced hepatologists independently staged 230 MASLD patients for advanced fibrosis (F0‐2 vs F3‐4) using FIB‐4, FIB‐4+ELF, FIB‐4+ vibration controlled transient elastography (VCTE; Fibroscan™) and FIB‐4+ELF+VTCE. Concordance between histology and CFA or algorithmic approaches were assessed.

Results

A total of 230 patients were included (median age 54 [22–78] years; 55% female; median FIB‐4 1.21 [IQR: 0.78–1.91]; ELF 9.3 [IQR: 8.6–10.2]; VCTE 9.4 [IQR: 6.3–14.3]; 41% F0‐1, 22% F2, 21% F3 and 16% F4). Overall, area under the receiver operator curves for histologic F3‐4 for the raw tests were 0.84 for FIB‐4, 0.86 for ELF and 0.86 for VCTE. Concordance between the hepatologists was good (FIB4, κ = 0.64; FIB‐4+ELF, κ = 0.70; FIB‐4+VCTE, κ = 0.69; FIB‐4+ELF+VCTE, κ = 0.70). Concordance between individual CFA and histology was variable, which was reflected in variability in sensitivity (44%–84%) and specificity (76%–94%). Concordance with histology was better when clinicians used NIT combinations. Purely algorithmic approaches, particularly sequential use of FIB‐4 then VCTE, tended to perform better than the CFA.

Conclusions

Adhering to the recommended algorithmic approaches using NITs to stage fibrosis tended to perform more accurately than less‐structured clinician NIT‐based assessments conducted by experienced hepatologists.
Letter: Breaking new ground—Understanding the role of ATI‐free diet in managing MASLD—Authors' reply
Authors: Armandi Angelo , Schuppan Detlef , Schattenberg Jörn M.
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Armandi et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17941 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18064
Accuracy of manual and artificial intelligence‐based superimposition of cone‐beam computed tomography with digital scan data, utilizing an implant planning software: A randomized clinical study
Authors: Ntovas Panagiotis , Marchand Laurent , Finkelman Matthew , Revilla‐León Marta , Att Wael
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To investigate the accuracy of conventional and automatic artificial intelligence (AI)‐based registration of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) with intraoral scans and to evaluate the impact of user's experience, restoration artifact, number of missing teeth, and free‐ended edentulous area.

Materials and Methods

Three initial registrations were performed for each of the 150 randomly selected patients, in an implant planning software: one from an experienced user, one from an inexperienced operator, and one from a randomly selected post‐graduate student of implant dentistry. Six more registrations were performed for each dataset by the experienced clinician: implementing a manual or an automatic refinement, selecting 3 small or 3 large in‐diameter surface areas and using multiple small or multiple large in‐diameter surface areas. Finally, an automatic AI‐driven registration was performed, using the AI tools that were integrated into the utilized implant planning software. The accuracy between each type of registration was measured using linear measurements between anatomical landmarks in metrology software.

Results

Fully automatic‐based AI registration was not significantly different from the conventional methods tested for patients without restorations. In the presence of multiple restoration artifacts, user's experience was important for an accurate registration. Registrations' accuracy was affected by the number of free‐ended edentulous areas, but not by the absolute number of missing teeth (p < .0083).

Conclusions

In the absence of imaging artifacts, automated AI‐based registration of CBCT data and model scan data can be as accurate as conventional superimposition methods. The number and size of selected superimposition areas should be individually chosen depending on each clinical situation.
Cerebral hypoperfusion exacerbates traumatic brain injury in male but not female mice
Authors: Whitehead Bailey J. , Corbin Deborah , Alexander Megan L. , Bumgarner Jacob , Zhang Ning , Karelina Kate , Weil Zachary M.
Published: June 2024

Mild–moderate traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are prevalent, and while many individuals recover, there is evidence that a significant number experience long‐term health impacts, including increased vulnerability to neurodegenerative diseases. These effects are influenced by other risk factors, such as cardiovascular disease. Our study tested the hypothesis that a pre‐injury reduction in cerebral blood flow (CBF), mimicking cardiovascular disease, worsens TBI recovery. We induced bilateral carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) and a mild–moderate closed‐head TBI in male and female mice, either alone or in combination, and analyzed CBF, spatial learning, memory, axonal damage, and gene expression. Findings showed that BCAS and TBI independently caused a ~10% decrease in CBF. Mice subjected to both BCAS and TBI experienced more significant CBF reductions, notably affecting spatial learning and memory, particularly in males. Additionally, male mice showed increased axonal damage with both BCAS and TBI compared to either condition alone. Females exhibited spatial memory deficits due to BCAS, but these were not worsened by subsequent TBI. Gene expression analysis in male mice highlighted that TBI and BCAS individually altered neuronal and glial profiles. However, the combination of BCAS and TBI resulted in markedly different transcriptional patterns. Our results suggest that mild cerebrovascular impairments, serving as a stand‐in for preexisting cardiovascular conditions, can significantly worsen TBI outcomes in males. This highlights the potential for mild comorbidities to modify TBI outcomes and increase the risk of secondary diseases.
Re‐wiring of the bonded brain: Gene expression among pair bonded female prairie voles changes as they transition to motherhood
Authors: Forero Santiago A. , Liu Sydney , Shetty Netra , Ophir Alexander G.
Published: June 2024

Motherhood is a costly life‐history transition accompanied by behavioral and neural plasticity necessary for offspring care. Motherhood in the monogamous prairie vole is associated with decreased pair bond strength, suggesting a trade‐off between parental investment and pair bond maintenance. Neural mechanisms governing pair bonds and maternal bonds overlap, creating possible competition between the two. We measured mRNA expression of genes encoding receptors for oxytocin (oxtr), dopamine (d1r and d2r), mu‐opioids (oprm1a), and kappa‐opioids (oprk1a) within three brain areas processing salience of sociosensory cues (anterior cingulate cortex; ACC), pair bonding (nucleus accumbens; NAc), and maternal care (medial preoptic area; MPOA). We compared gene expression differences between pair bonded prairie voles that were never pregnant, pregnant (~day 16 of pregnancy), and recent mothers (day 3 of lactation). We found greater gene expression in the NAc (oxtr, d2r, oprm1a, and oprk1a) and MPOA (oxtr, d1r, d2r, oprm1a, and oprk1a) following the transition to motherhood. Expression for all five genes in the ACC was greatest for females that had been bonded for longer. Gene expression within each region was highly correlated, indicating that oxytocin, dopamine, and opioids comprise a complimentary gene network for social signaling. ACC‐NAc gene expression correlations indicated that being a mother (oxtr and d1r) or maintaining long‐term pair bonds (oprm1a) relies on the coordination of different signaling systems within the same circuit. Our study suggests the maternal brain undergoes changes that prepare females to face the trade‐off associated with increased emotional investment in offspring, while also maintaining a pair bond.