bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Captivity affects mitochondrial aerobic respiration and carotenoid metabolism in the house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)
Authors: Koch Rebecca E. , Okegbe Chidimma , Ramanathan Chidambaram , Zhu Xinyu , Hare Ethan , Toomey Matthew B. , Hill Geoffrey E. , Zhang Yufeng
Published: November 2023

In many species of animals, red carotenoid-based coloration is produced by metabolizing yellow dietary pigments, and this red ornamentation is an honest signal of individual quality. However, the physiological basis for associations between organism function and the metabolism of red ornamental carotenoids from yellow dietary carotenoids remains uncertain. A recent hypothesis posits that carotenoid metabolism depends on mitochondrial performance, with diminished red coloration resulting from altered mitochondrial aerobic respiration. To test for an association between mitochondrial respiration and red carotenoids, we held wild-caught, molting male house finches in either small bird cages or large flight cages to create environmental challenges during the period when red ornamental coloration is produced. We predicted that small cages would present a less favorable environment than large flight cages and that captivity would affect both mitochondrial performance and the abundance of red carotenoids. We found no evidence that living in smallversuslarge cages had significant effects on wild-caught house finches; however, birds in cages of any size circulated fewer red carotenoids, showed increased mitochondrial respiratory rates, and had lower complex II respiratory control ratios—a metric associated with mitochondrial efficiency—compared to free-living birds. Moreover, among captive individuals, the birds that circulated the most red carotenoids had the highest mitochondrial respiratory control ratio for complex II substrates. These data support the hypothesis that the metabolism of red carotenoid pigments is linked to mitochondrial aerobic respiration in the house finch, but the mechanisms for this association remain to be established.

SUMMARY STATEMENT

Holding wild-caught male house finches in cages exposed a relationship between red carotenoid production and mitochondrial respiratory efficiency.
Structure-property machine learning models with predictive capabilities for glycans in food
Authors: Naravane Tarini , Simmons Gabriel
Published: November 2023

Structure-property predictive models for food aim to decipher the complex relation between the physical shape of a molecule and its physical properties and/or the functional role of the molecule in a product formulation. Our focus in this paper is the modeling of glycans (i.e., carbohydrates), which are not only abundant in food, but essential to both food production and, more importantly, human health. In our study, we use regression methods to generalize the relationships between the structure of starch (e.g., chain length and composition of protein and amylose) and a range of its properties (e.g., gelatinization temperature, time series viscosity data, gel consistency, and sensory texture) for 301 samples of rice. Our results indicate that the structure-composition data is a significantly better predictor of sensory mouthfeel than the physical properties, even though the latter is typically used in experimental research. This demonstrates the potential to harness several structure-property relationships and we provide strategies to accelerate further experiment-based research.
Breaking the vertical barrier: effects of vertical direction and rotation of an English loan brand name on product evaluation
Authors: Park Jihye , Zhang Min , Yoo Seunghyun , Kwon Hannah Gloria
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the effects of vertical direction and rotation of English loan brand names in East Asian languages (Chinese and Korean) on processing fluency, perceived product quality and purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Four experiments were conducted in China and Korea, employing a 2 (vertical direction: downward vs upward) X 3 (rotation: 0°/marquee vs 90° clockwise vs 90° counterclockwise) between-subjects factorial design.

Findings

The findings showed that when the English loan Chinese brand name was displayed downward, the marquee format was preferred, while counterclockwise rotation was favored when displayed upward. In Korean, clockwise rotation was preferred for downward presentation, while counterclockwise rotation was favored for upward presentation. The effects on purchase intention were mediated by processing fluency and perceived product quality.

Practical implications

This research provides practical implications for global manufacturers and retailers, offering guidance on presenting brand names in East Asian languages and optimizing product packaging designs. For Chinese consumers, the marquee format is recommended for downward-oriented brand names, while counterclockwise rotation is effective for upward orientation. For Korean consumers, clockwise rotation is favored for downward presentation and counterclockwise rotation is preferred for upward presentation. Understanding linguistic habits allows the tailoring of brand presentations, enhancing brand perception and consumer responses.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding the role of cultural and linguistic influences on consumer information processing and product perception in vertical presentations of brand names.
Linking innovation and firm performance in an emerging market: does supply chain play a mediation role?
Authors: Nguyen Van It , Kotaskova Anna , Ferraris Alberto , Le Thanh Tiep
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of human capital (managers' capital, employees' capital) and orientation (market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation) for accelerating the digitalization process and improving the firm performance. It also studies the role of supply chains as both direct and indirect mediators of the correlation between digitalization and business performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This article aims to develop an empirical study using a random sampling technique and survey data collected from 368 managers and owners of different food enterprises in Vietnam. The study adopted a methodological approach quantitatively. Analysis of the relationships and confirmatory factors was performed using structural equation modeling (SEM), a technique to evaluate the proposed relationships.

Findings

In line with expectations, the findings emphasize the impact of human capital (managers' capital, employees' capital) and orientation (market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation) for accelerating the digitalization process and the role of supply chains as both direct and indirect mediators of the correlation between digitalization and improving the firm performance, in the context of emerging markets.

Originality/value

This is an important investigation, according to the authors' knowledge, regarding the role of developing human capital (managers' capital, employees' capital) and orientation (market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation) as a key strategy for accelerating the digitalization process and improving the firm performance. Further, the study's novelty reinforces the role of supply chains as both direct and indirect mediators of the correlation between digitalization and business performance in the Vietnamese food companies, where a market economy is emerging.
Should I stay or should I go: how pay secrecy influences turnover intentions
Authors: Rodrigue Shelly , Cox Susie
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to extend the pay communication literature by examining the relationship between pay secrecy and turnover intentions with the inclusion of mediators. This study further analyzes the influence pay secrecy and organizational trust have on three key employee attitudinal variables that are directly related to turnover intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from participants that were recruited using Mechanical Turk, yielding a sample size of 496. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the hypotheses.

Findings

Findings demonstrate pay secrecy positively influences turnover intentions. This relationship is double-mediated by organizational trust with organizational cynicism, organizational disidentification, and job embeddedness. All hypotheses were supported.

Practical implications

This research shows that pay secrecy has negative effects on employee attitudes and behaviors. Based on the findings of this study, organizations should take steps toward pay openness to avoid employees becoming distrustful and more cynical of the organization, boost feelings of being embedded, and deter organizational disidentification.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the pay communication literature by further explaining the pay secrecy–turnover intentions relationship with the inclusion of mediators that have shown mixed results or have not been previously analyzed to the researchers' knowledge. Specifically, organizational trust, organizational cynicism, organizational disidentification, and job embeddedness were examined as mediators. Previous research has shown mixed results for the influence pay secrecy has on organizational trust, with some studies demonstrating pay secrecy to have a positive effect and others a negative effect. This study demonstrates support for pay secrecy's negative relationship with organizational trust.
The moderating role of high- and low-involvement product types on customer loyalty and satisfaction in banking: an Australian perspective
Authors: Hinchcliff Mercedez , Kyriazis Elias , McCarthy Grace , Mehmet Michael
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The study aims to develop a holistic model identifying the constructs that impact customer loyalty in retail banking and introduce product type as a moderating variable to the model.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model of customer loyalty is introduced and empirically tested with 416 valid samples obtained from Australian retail banking customers. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling and multigroup analysis.

Findings

This study confirms the moderating effect of high- and low-involvement products on the relationship between customer loyalty and satisfaction, trust, service quality, commitment and perceived value. Surprisingly, the effect of satisfaction on loyalty was much stronger with low-involvement product types and the effect of commitment on loyalty was much stronger with customers who utilise high-involvement products.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses a sample population in Australia who utilise one of the top four banks and investigates three product types. Further research could expand the product selection and include customers who use credit unions and other banks not in the top four categories.

Originality/value

This study is the first to confirm the moderating effect product type has on the customer loyalty relationship in retail banking in regard to high- and low-involvement product categories. The research provides a deeper understanding of the factors that influence customer loyalty and identifies which types of products influences customer loyalty the most. Additionally, this study highlights the importance of understanding the different needs and priorities of customers using different product types in order to effectively influence their loyalty.
From disclosure to sustainable performance: how corporate social responsibility disclosure impacts the long-term share price performance of Malaysian IPO
Authors: Abbas Yasir Abdullah , Ahmad-Zaluki Nurwati A. , Mehmood Waqas
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper examines the relationship between the extent and quality of the four dimensions of corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD) namely community, environment, workplace and marketplace with the long-run share price performance of Malaysian initial public offering (IPO) companies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilised secondary data by the content analysis of the annual reports and Datastream of 115 IPOs listed from 2007 to 2015 in Malaysia. The IPO’s performance was determined by calculating the return measures under the equally weighted and value-weighted schemes of the mean abnormal returns and buy-and-hold abnormal returns covering the three years post-listing using the event-time approach.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that Malaysian IPOs experience substantial overperformance and underperformance when both the IPO performance measures are benchmarked against the matched companies and market. The results indicated that the extent and quality of the community and environment CSRD dimensions are positively and significantly correlated to the IPO’s performance. On the other hand, the extent and quality of the workplace and marketplace CSRD dimensions are negatively and significantly correlated to the IPO performance.

Practical implications

Malaysian regulators could benefit from these findings in their endeavour to carry out a reform process on CSRD to improve its quality. The results of this study are important to investors, regulators, non-government organisations, communities and policymakers. They also enhance the understanding of companies about the importance of disclosing greater CSR information to improve their performance and profitability.

Originality/value

To the researchers' best knowledge, this study provides new insights into the association between CSRD and the performance of Malaysian IPO companies, which is considered important.
Does circular economy entrepreneurship drive technical capabilities for circular economy performance? The moderating role of environmental dynamism
Authors: Baah Charles , Rijal Anita , Agyabeng-Mensah Yaw , Afum Ebenezer , Acquah Innocent Senyo Kwasi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Drawing on the resource-based view (RBV) and the dynamic capabilities view (DCV), this study investigates how circular economy entrepreneurship (CEE) drives technical capabilities (TC) in achieving greater circular economy (CE) performance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under the moderating influence of environmental dynamism. SMEs, facing resource constraints, need to promote CE due to growing stakeholder pressures. Thus, the authors recommend that SMEs via CEE can identify CE opportunities and then develop specific TC to exploit opportunities in the business environment to achieve CE performance. However, in doing so SMEs should pay attention to the varying degrees of environmental dynamism.

Design/methodology/approach

The RBV and DCV are used as a theoretical lens to investigate the direct and moderation effects between CEE, TC, CE performance and environmental dynamism tested via partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using survey data from 152 managers of SMEs in Nepal.

Findings

The study results show that CEE directly has a positive and significant effect on the development of TC and CE performance. Similarly, the development of TC drives SMEs to achieve improved CE performance, as evidenced by the positive and significant effect. Interestingly, the results suggest that environmental dynamism significantly improves the relationship between TC and CE performance, but this effect is strongest at high levels of environmental dynamism rather than at low and moderate levels. Additionally, the findings reveal that while environmental dynamism has a positive effect on the relationship between CEE and TC, this effect is insignificant.

Originality/value

Based on the arguments of the RBV and the DCV, this study explores how environmental dynamism can reduce and amplify SMEs' ability to use CEE to develop TC and improve CEP. First, this study integrates the circular economy and entrepreneurship domains to suggest essential CEP and TC benefits for SMEs via CEE. Second, this study suggests that at low levels of environmental dynamism, CEE has less effect on the SMEs’ development of TC, compared to high levels. Third, this study is conducted in the novel institutional context of Nepal, providing insights regarding how SMEs' CE entrepreneurship impacts TC and CEP.
A meta-analysis of the effect of chatbot anthropomorphism on the customer journey
Authors: Yanxia Cheng , Shijia Zhu , Yuyang Xiao
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Chatbots are increasingly engaged in service marketing. Some academics and managers think using anthropomorphism chatbots will improve positive attitudes and behaviors in the customer journey, but at a high degree of anthropomorphism, consumers may experience negative emotions such as fear and disgust due to the feeling that the robots resemble humans too much, which is known as the uncanny valley effect. Therefore, the authors aim to explore whether chatbot anthropomorphism will promote or limit the development of the customer journey and explore the moderating factors and the antecedent factors affecting consumers' perceptions of chatbot anthropomorphism.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected 72,782 unique data points from 42 articles and 82 samples using a meta-analysis. Based on the stimuli-organism-response (SOR) model, the impact of anthropomorphic chatbots on the consumer journey was discussed.

Findings

The authors’ findings show that chatbot anthropomorphism positively impacts the customer journey but not their negative attitudes. Further moderator analysis reveals that the impact depends on service result, chatbot gender and sample source. The chatbot anthropomorphism is significantly influenced by social presence cues, emotional message cues and mixed cues.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the chatbot anthropomorphism literature and offers guidance for managers on whether and how to enhance chatbot anthropomorphism to facilitate the customer journey and improve service sustainability.
Exploring a school‐level inclusive practice index for meaningful inclusion in Zambian schools
Authors: Chansa‐Kabali Tamara , Nyoni Joachim
Published: November 2023

The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and, in particular, its Sustainable Development Goal no. 4, underline the relevance of quality education that translates into long‐term benefits for all learners. This article reports findings of a collaborative research study that piloted an inclusive practice index to investigate inclusion in schools. We applied a mixed‐methods design to identify potent features of inclusion, and developed an index that measured the extent to which inclusive practices were considered in schools. The index was administered in 168 schools and to 498 teachers. Using exploratory factor analysis, psychometric properties and potency of factors were determined. Our results revealed a two‐factor solution cumulatively accounting for 72% of variation. Based on our findings, we highlight the need for schools to be deliberate in processes that enhance application of inclusive practices. When applied with intention, this will foster accountability for inclusion in the delivery of meaningful inclusive education.
Do ADHD and SLD children differ in executive functions and behavioural problems? A comparative study
Authors: Sharifi Ali , Asanjarani Faramarz
Published: November 2023

It is well‐known that children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and specific learning disorder (SLD) often exhibit behavioural and emotional problems. However, little is known about how these problems compare between the two groups of children. This study sought to fill this gap in knowledge by comparing the executive functions and behavioural–emotional problems of children with ADHD, SLD and typically developing children. For this study, 94 children were recruited through purposeful sampling (ADHD = 23, SLD = 30 and TD = 41). All participants were screened based on WISC‐IV. Subsequently, participants were administered executive functions and behavioural problems questionnaires. The analysis of the data using MANOVA and Scheffe post hoc pairwise shows that children with ADHD and SLD had significantly higher scores on measures of executive function impairment than typically developing children. Our study revealed that children in the ADHD group scored significantly higher in social problems, aggressive behaviours, AD/HD problems, ODD, conduct problems and externalizing problems sub‐tests. Conversely, the LD group demonstrated higher scores in the anxiety problems sub‐test. Furthermore, Our study demonstrated that children in the ADHD group scored significantly higher in the following sub‐tests: metacognition, inhibit, shift, bri, shift and emotion control. In contrast, the LD group exhibited higher scores in the initiate sub‐test. In addition, the two groups of children with disorders also exhibited more behavioural–emotional problems than typically developing children. These findings suggest that ADHD and SLD are associated with impaired executive function and increased behavioural–emotional problems. These findings have implications for the assessment and treatment of these disorders.
Quantification of diffuse parenchymal lung disease in non‐small cell lung cancer patients with definitive concurrent chemoradiation therapy for predicting radiation pneumonitis
Authors: An Ye Chan , Kim Jong Hoon , Noh Jae Myung , Yang Kyung Mi , Oh You Jin , Park Sung Goo , Pyo Hong Ryul , Lee Ho Yun
Published: November 2023

Background

We sought to quantify diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD) extent using quantitative computed tomography (CT) analysis and to investigate its association with radiation pneumonitis (RP) development in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients receiving definitive concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT).

Methods

A total of 82 NSCLC patients undergoing definitive CCRT were included in this prospective cohort study. Pretreatment CT scans were analyzed using quantitative CT analysis software. Low‐attenuation area (LAA) features based on lung density and texture features reflecting interstitial lung disease (ILD) were extracted from the whole lung. Clinical and dosimetric factors were also evaluated. RP development was assessed using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for grade ≥3 (≥GR3) RP.

Results

RP was identified in 68 patients (73.9%), with nine patients (10.9%) experiencing ≥GR3 RP. Univariable logistic regression analysis identified excess kurtosis and high‐attenuation area (HAA)_volume (cc) as significantly associated with ≥GR3 RP. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the combined use of imaging features and clinical factors (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC], and CHEMO regimen) demonstrated the best performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.924) in predicting ≥GR3 RP.

Conclusion

Quantified imaging features of DPLD obtained from pretreatment CT scans would predict the occurrence of RP in NSCLC patients undergoing definitive CCRT. Combining imaging features with clinical factors could improve the accuracy of the predictive model for severe RP.
Toward anthropologies of the metaverse
Authors: Boellstorff Tom
Published: November 2023

Anthropology is good for understanding the metaverse, the emerging domain of digital culture that includes virtual worlds, online games, and social media. In the wake of COVID, there has been heightened interest in the metaverse's potential, particularly after Facebook renamed itself Meta in October 2021. Yet current understandings of the metaverse are deeply muddled, warped by rhetorics of promotion ranging from entrepreneurial zeal to rampant hucksterism. In response, anthropology can defamiliarize ways of thinking that might otherwise take on the status of common sense. I show that the metaverse is mischaracterized when its optional aspects are repackaged as obligatory. Four such mischaracterizations are particularly damaging: that the metaverse must use virtual reality (VR, which I rename “sensory immersion,” or SI), that it must be interoperable, that it must be massive, and that it must employ crypto. By clearing this conceptual underbrush, we can move beyond both hype and anti‐hype to delineate what anthropology offers to the analysis, decolonization, and future transformation of the metaverse.
Radical Methodological Openness and Method as Politics: Reflections on Militant Research with Squatters in Catalonia
Authors: Ferreri Mara , García‐Lamarca Melissa ,   Obra Social Barcelona
Published: November 2023

In 2017, it was estimated that over 87,000 families—around 270,000 people—lived in squatted properties in Spain. Such figures, often used by the media to stigmatise residential occupations and generate moral panic, give an ill‐defined yet powerful indication of the prevalence of squatting within and outside organised housing movements. From these came the question: How to elevate the “minor knowledges” of precariously housed people in an ethical, engaged, and situated way, in dialogue with a coordinated activist push to reframe squatting as a political strategy? Based on the experience of the first “strategic positivist” survey about squatting in Catalonia, we offer a situated reflection on the tensions and contradictions of militant research in a shifting political terrain. The urgency and ethics that guided our process made it necessary to operate through methodological openness and to consider method as politics, advancing a broader agenda of movement‐relevant research supporting non‐speculative forms of inhabitation.
COVID‐19 crisis, Romanian Roma migrant women, and the temporary geographies of lockdown in the Spanish home
Authors: Jupîneanţ Adriana Cioran , Creţan Remus , Voiculescu Sorina , Doiciar Claudia
Published: November 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic exposed the persistent problem of gender, class and racial inequality that has been neglected or poorly addressed globally. The effect of the lockdowns and other pandemic restrictions on the home cannot be undermined. Additionally, investigations on the relationship between Roma migrant women, household practices and the COVID‐19 pandemic still warrant more exploration in the social scientific literature. This research investigates these topics through the lens of Romanian Roma migrant women in Spain during the pandemic. Using geographies of home and gender perspectives based on focus group interviews with Roma women in eastern Spain, we claim that these women encountered multiple problems during the pandemic, built through replication of practices, objects and rhetoric of home. The findings suggest that home has not lost its utility, as the experiences of Roma migrant women during the COVID‐19 crisis give fresh aspects for reconsidering the living conditions for women and their families under restricted pandemic circumstances. We conclude that Roma women reproduce and co‐produce the home as a living space in times of pandemic crisis.
Exchange rate effects on China's exports: Product sophistication and exchange rate elasticity
Authors: Chen Chen , Salike Nimesh , Thorbecke Willem
Published: November 2023

The negative effect of a currency appreciation on a country's exports may be attenuated as its export basket becomes more sophisticated. This paper investigates whether exchange rate changes affect China's exports differently depending on their sophistication levels, as measured by the Product Complexity Index (PCI). We estimate exchange rate elasticities for 1242 export categories disaggregated at the HS‐4‐digit level from 1995 to 2018 using bilateral trade data between China and 190 partner economies. Results indicate that exchange rate fluctuations have negative effects on China's export values, and exchange rate effects are less for more sophisticated exports. This decreasing of exchange rate elasticities for more sophisticated exports holds even when controlling for tariffs. The evidence also shows that, as China has upgraded its export basket over time, the impact of exchange rates on exports has become smaller and less significant. Moreover, the effect of exchange rate related policies on export values via the exchange rate is smaller and less significant for China's more sophisticated exports.
Effects of a modified invitation letter to follow‐up colonoscopy for bowel cancer detection
Authors: Travis Elizabeth , Ashley Laura , O'Connor Daryl B.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate whether modifications made to the current National Health Service (NHS) invitation letter for follow‐up colonoscopy examination affect participant state anxiety and behavioural intentions to attend.

Methods

Five hundred and thirty‐eight adults of bowel cancer‐eligible screening age (56–74) were randomized to receive the current NHS invitation letter or the modified version of the letter as a hypothetical scenario. Modifications to the letter included fewer uses of the term cancer and awareness of alternative screening options. The history of the colonoscopy invitation, anticipated state anxiety, behavioural intention to attend the nurse appointment, and colonoscopy concerns upon reading the letter were measured.

Results

Behavioural intentions were high in both conditions; however, participants reading the current letter reported significantly higher behavioural intentions compared to the modified letter. There was no main effect of previous invite status or interaction between previous invite status and letter condition on behavioural intentions. However, the effect of the letter on levels of anxiety depended on the participant's invitation history. Those never invited for a colonoscopy were more anxious when reading the modified letter compared to the current letter. Conversely, previous colonoscopy invitees were less anxious following reading the modified letter than those reading the current letter. Those never invited for a colonoscopy were more concerned about embarrassment and test invasiveness. All findings remained the same when controlling for age and education.

Conclusion

Modifications to the invitation letter were not beneficial to levels of screening intention or anxiety.
Synthesis and antitumor activity evaluation of coumarin Mannich base derivatives
Authors: He Bing , Ding Le , Tan Hong‐zhou , Liu Cheng‐bo , He Li‐qin
Published: November 2023

Twenty‐one new coumarin Mannich base derivatives (11a‐u) were synthesized, which exhibited antiproliferation activities in HepG2 (liver cancer), A549 (lung cancer), MCF‐7 (breast cancer), and HT‐29 (colon cancer). Most of the target compounds showed the most potent activity against HepG2 cells compared with other cancer cells, compound 11g showed the strongest antiproliferative activity (2.10 μM) against HepG2, even superior to the positive control drug 5‐FU(5.49 μM). The nitric oxide (NO) release of all compounds in HepG2 cells was determined, of which compound 11g showed high levels of NO release (10.8 μM). Notably, the solubility of compound 11g increased 13‐fold compared with the lead 8. The preliminary cytotoxicity studies suggest that 11g had little effect on LO2 cells(normal liver cells, >50 μM). The effect of compound 11g on the apoptosis of HepG2 cells was also studied, and the results showed that the induction effect of compound 11g on apoptosis is a concentration‐dependent manner. Our results indicate that compound 11g might be a promising lead for further studies.
Tanshinone IIA attenuates ox‐LDL‐induced endothelial cell injury by inhibiting NF‐kapaB pathway via circ_0000231/miR‐590‐5p/TXNIP axis
Authors: Chen Zhu , Zhao Jiaai , Wang Siwang , Li Qiang
Published: November 2023

Tanshinone IIA (TSIIA) exhibits inhibitory function in atherosclerosis (AS) progression, and circular RNAs (circRNAs) are pivotal regulators in AS. However, the relation between TSIIA and circ_0000231 in AS pathogenesis remains unknown. In this study, oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) was used to establish AS cell model. Treatment of ox‐LDL inhibited cell growth but promoted apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Then, TSIIA was shown to attenuate ox‐LDL‐induced endothelial injury. Furthermore, the protective effect of TSIIA against ox‐LDL‐induced endothelial cell injury was reversed by circ_0000231. Circ_0000231 was identified as a miR‐590‐5p sponge. Also, miR‐590‐5p downregulation restored the protection of TSIIA for endothelial cell function. Moreover, circ_0000231 was found to upregulate thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) level via targeting miR‐590‐5p. TXNIP overexpression mitigated the regulatory function of circ_0000231 knockdown after co‐treatment with ox‐LDL and TSIIA. TXNIP upregulation recovered the inhibitory regulation of TSIIA in ox‐LDL‐induced cell damage. In addition, TSIIA inactivated NF‐kapaB (NF‐κB) signaling pathway via regulating miR‐590‐5p/TXNIP axis by downregulating circ_0000231. All these results suggested that TSIIA inhibited ox‐LDL‐induced AS progression in endothelial cells by affecting NF‐κB pathway via circ_0000231/miR‐590‐5p/TXNIP.
One‐hour post‐load glucose levels are associated with hepatic steatosis assessed by transient elastography
Authors: Andreozzi Francesco , Mancuso Elettra , Mazza Elisa , Mannino Gaia Chiara , Fiorentino Teresa Vanessa , Arturi Franco , Succurro Elena , Perticone Maria , Sciacqua Angela , Montalcini Tiziana , Pujia Arturo , Sesti Giorgio
Published: November 2023

Aim

To examine the association between 1‐hour plasma glucose (PG) concentration and markers of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) assessed by transient elastography (TE).

Methods

We performed TE in 107 metabolically well‐characterized non‐diabetic White individuals. Controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) was used to quantify liver steatosis, while liver stiffness marker (LS) was used to evaluate fibrosis.

Results

Controlled attenuation parameter correlated significantly with 1‐hour PG (r = 0.301, P < 0.01), fasting insulin (r = 0.285, P < 0.01), 2‐hour insulin (r = 0.257, P < 0.02), homeostasis model assessment index of insulin resistance (r = 0.252, P < 0.01), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = −0.252, P < 0.02), body mass index (BMI; r = 0.248, P < 0.02) and age (r = 0.212, P < 0.03), after correction for age, sex and BMI. In a multivariable linear regression analysis, 1‐hour PG (β = 0.274, P = 0.008) and fasting insulin levels (β = 0.225, P = 0.029) were found to be independent predictors of CAP. After excluding subjects with prediabetes, 1‐hour PG was the sole predictor of CAP variation (β = 0.442, P < 0.001). In a logistic regression model, we observed that the group with 1‐hour PG ≥  8.6 mmol/L (155 mg/dL) had a significantly higher risk of steatosis (odds ratio 3.98, 95% confidence interval 1.43‐11.13; P = 0.008) than individuals with 1‐hour PG <  8.6 mmol/L, after correction for potential confounders. No association was observed between 1‐hour PG and LS.

Conclusion

Our data confirm that 1‐hour PG ≥  8.6 mmol/L is associated with higher signs of NAFLD, even among individuals with normal glucose tolerance, categorized as low risk by canonical diagnostic standards. TE is a safe low‐impact approach that could be employed for stratifying the risk profile in these patients, with a high level of accuracy.
Multiparametric assessment of right ventricular function in heart transplant recipients by echocardiography and relations with pulmonary hemodynamics
Authors: Colak Ayse , Erdemir Ahmet Gurkan , Hazirolan Tuncay , Pirat Bahar , Eroglu Serpil , Aydinalp Alp , Muderrisoglu Haldun , Sade Leyla Elif
Published: November 2023

Objective

Right ventricular (RV) dilatation and dysfunction are usually present in heart transplant (HTx) patients and worsened with residual pulmonary hypertension (PH). We aimed to determine the ability of different echocardiographic modalities to evaluate RV function in comparison with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and their relations with pulmonary hemodynamics in HTx patients.

Methods

A total of 62 data sets [echocardiographic, hemodynamic, and CMR] were acquired from 35 HTx patients. Comprehensive echocardiography, including two‐dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography, speckle tracking echocardiography, and three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography, was performed. Mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) was obtained invasively from right heart catheterization. The correlations between all echocardiographic parameters and CMR imaging data and the differences between patients with and without residual PH were evaluated.

Results

Diastolic and systolic RV volumes and RV ejection fraction (RVEF) by 3D echocardiography correlated strongly with CMR‐derived volumes and RVEF (r = .91, r = .79, r = .64; p < .0001 for each, respectively). Among other parameters, RV fractional area change (r = .439; p < .001) and RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFW‐LS) (r = −.34; p < .05) correlated moderately with CMR‐RVEF, whereas tricuspid annulus S’ velocity (r = .29; p < .05) and tricuspid annular systolic plane excursion (r = .27; p < .05) correlated weakly with CMR‐RVEF. Additionally, 3D‐RVEF and RVFW‐LS were significantly decreased in studies with mPAP ≥ 20 mm Hg in comparison to those with mPAP < 20 mm Hg (47.7 ± 3.7 vs. 50.9 ± 5.3, p = .04 and −15.5 ± 3.1 vs. −17.5 ± 3, p = .03, respectively).

Conclusion

The best method for the evaluation of RV function in HTx recipients is 3D echocardiography. Besides, the subclinical impact of residual PH on RV function can be best determined by RVFW‐LS and 3D‐RVEF in these patients.
A poly‐proline II helix in YadA from Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:9 facilitates heparin binding through electrostatic interactions
Authors: Meuskens Ina , Kristiansen Per Eugen , Bardiaux Benjamin , Koynarev Vladimir Rosenov , Hatlem Daniel , Prydz Kristian , Lund Reidar , Izadi‐Pruneyre Nadia , Linke Dirk
Published: November 2023

Poly‐proline II helices are secondary structure motifs frequently found in ligand‐binding sites. They exhibit increased flexibility and solvent exposure compared to the strongly hydrogen‐bonded α‐helices or β‐strands and can therefore easily be misinterpreted as completely unstructured regions with an extremely high rotational freedom. Here, we show that the adhesin YadA of Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:9 contains a poly‐proline II helix interaction motif in the N‐terminal region. The motif is involved in the interaction of YadAO:9 with heparin, a host glycosaminoglycan. We show that the basic residues within the N‐terminal motif of YadA are required for electrostatic interactions with the sulfate groups of heparin. Biophysical methods including CD spectroscopy, solution‐state NMR and SAXS all independently support the presence of a poly‐proline helix allowing YadAO:9 binding to the rigid heparin. Lastly, we show that host cells deficient in sulfation of heparin and heparan sulfate are not targeted by YadAO:9‐mediated adhesion. We speculate that the YadAO:9–heparin interaction plays an important and highly strain‐specific role in the pathogenicity of Yersinia enterocolitica serotype O:9.
Demographics, comorbidities and risk factors for severe disease from the early SARS‐CoV‐2 infection cases in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Oats Alainah , Phung Hai , Tudehope Lucy , Sofija Ernesta
Published: November 2023

Background

Demographics and comorbidities associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) severity differs between subpopulations and should be determined to aid future pandemic planning and preparedness.

Aim

To describe the demographics and comorbidities of patients diagnosed with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in Queensland (QLD), Australia, between January 2020 and May 2021. Also, to determine the relationship between these characteristics and disease severity based on the highest level of care.

Methods

A retrospective case series analysis was conducted using data obtained from the Notifiable Conditions System. Data on patients confirmed with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in QLD were included in this analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression modelling were used to analyse factors that contributed to disease severity.

Results

One thousand six hundred twenty‐five patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were diagnosed in the study period and analysed. The median age was 41 years and 54.3% (n = 882) were males. A total of 550 patients were hospitalised and 20 patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). In those admitted to the ICU, 95% (n = 19) were older than 45 years and 95% (n = 19) were male. Comorbidities significantly associated with hospitalisation were chronic cardiac disease (excluding hypertension) and diabetes, and for ICU admission were morbid obesity, chronic respiratory disease and chronic cardiac disease. No demographic factors were shown to be significantly associated with disease severity.

Conclusions

Comorbidities associated with the highest level of COVID‐19 disease severity were morbid obesity, chronic respiratory disease and cardiac disease. These data can assist with identifying high‐risk patients susceptible to severe COVID‐19 and can be used to facilitate preparations for future pandemics.
Meta‐analysis on the efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine in enhancing surgical site wound healing post‐colorectal surgery
Authors: Liu Han‐song , Qian Haihua , Liu Jiali , Zhang Dan
Published: November 2023

This meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in enhancing surgical site wound healing following colorectal surgery. We systematically reviewed and analysed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the outcomes of TCM interventions in postoperative wound management, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome was the assessment of wound healing through the REEDA (redness, oedema, ecchymosis, discharge and approximation) scale at two different time points: the 10th day and 1‐month post‐surgery. Seven RCTs involving 1884 patients were included. The meta‐analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in wound healing in the TCM‐treated groups compared to the control groups at both time intervals. On the 10th day post‐surgery, the TCM groups exhibited a significant reduction in REEDA scale scores (I2 = 98%; random: SMD: −2.25, 95% CI: −3.52 to −0.98, p < 0.01). A similar trend was observed 1‐month post‐surgery, with the TCM groups showing a substantial decrease in REEDA scale scores (I2 = 98%; random: SMD: ‐3.39, 95% CI: −4.77 to −2.01, p < 0.01). Despite the promising results, the majority of the included studies were of suboptimal quality, indicating a need for further high‐quality RCTs to substantiate the findings. The results suggest that TCM interventions can potentially enhance wound healing post‐colorectal surgery, paving the way for further research in this area to validate the efficacy of TCM in postoperative management.
The effect of affiliation with a large business group on trade credit finance: An empirical analysis of chaebol firms in Korea
Authors: Chong Byung Uk , Im Hyun Joong
Published: November 2023

We investigate the effect of affiliation with a large business group on a firm's trade credit policy while controlling for the effects of its financial health and bargaining power in the Korean setting. Group affiliation may influence trade credit finance through the internal capital market mechanism and/or the extra bargaining power mechanism. In our empirical analyses, we focus on identifying the more dominant mechanism for determining trade credit demand (TCD) and supply (TCS). First, we provide a set of empirical findings showing that a firm's affiliation with a large business group increases the firm's TCD but decreases its TCS. These findings support the extra bargaining power mechanism argument. Second, we provide another set of empirical findings that group‐wise financial distress has weak positive impacts on a group affiliate's TCD and TCS. These findings support the internal capital market mechanism argument. Overall, we provide evidence that large business groups in Korea function uniquely in that the extra bargaining power mechanism greatly dominates the internal capital market mechanism when determining a group affiliate's trade credit transactions. We also provide evidence of the internal capital market mechanism functioning when an entire business group faces severe financial difficulties.
Autologous adipose tissue injection in the treatment of alopecia: A mini‐review
Authors: Sadeghi Sara , Ghane Yekta , Hajizadeh Nima , Goodarzi Azadeh
Published: November 2023

Background

Alopecia may decrease patients' quality of life and self‐confidence by limiting their social life. Therefore, the main goal of the treatment is to limit or halt the progression of inflammation, scarring, and hair loss. The promising effect of fat injection on hair regrowth, limited adverse effects, and subsiding inflammation can be proof of its efficacy and safety in treating alopecia.

Aims

This review sought to assess the role of autologous fat tissue injection in scarring and non‐scarring alopecia.

Methods

Accordingly, a thorough search was performed on the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed/Medline databases, as well as the Google Scholar search engine, for studies published from inception until September 1st, 2023, using the related keywords.

Results

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is a novel and potentially effective modality for treating alopecia, particularly primary and secondary cicatricial alopecia. AFG can be an effective semi‐invasive option for treating refractory lichen planopilaris because it induces angiogenesis, which supports hair regrowth. In addition to cicatricial alopecia, AFG held promise for treating non‐scarring alopecia, including androgenic alopecia and alopecia areata. The adipose‐derived regenerative cells (ADRCs) in adipose tissue (AT) secrete different growth factors, further supporting hair regeneration. Moreover, different anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative agents are known in AT, preventing further damage to hair follicles.

Conclusions

AFG can significantly control inflammatory processes, improve signs and symptoms, and increase hair density and diameter.
Influence of denture brushing on the surface properties and color stability of CAD‐CAM, thermoformed, and conventionally fabricated denture base resins
Authors: Fouda Shaimaa M. , Gad Mohammed M. , Ellakany Passent , El Zayat Mai , Farooqi Faraz A. , Akhtar Sultan , Salah El‐Din Mai
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To assess the influence of denture brushing on the surface roughness, hardness, and color stability of conventional, thermoformed, and CAD‐CAM denture base materials.

Materials and Methods

Seven different denture base materials were included in this study; conventional heat‐polymerized acrylic resin (PMMA) served as control, polyamide, acetal, two categories of milled acrylic discs (AvaDent and IvoCad), and two categories of 3D‐printed resins (NextDent and FormLabs). The specimens were constructed according to manufacturers’ instructions and then subjected to simulated brushing (20,000 cycles). According to the brushing method, the specimens were split into three groups, no brushing, brushing with water, and brushing with toothpaste. Surface roughness, hardness, and color change were evaluated before and after brushing. Collected data were analyzed using ANOVA, and post‐hoc Tukey's tests (α = 0.05).

Results

A significant difference was noted between the surface roughness of the tested materials before and after denture brushing (p < 0.05), and milled resin showed the least Ra values. Denture brushing with water significantly increased the Ra of PMMA (p = 0.004) and IvoCad (p = 0.032), while brushing using toothpaste did not show a significant increase. The brushing protocols did not alter the hardness of tested materials except that of PMMA (p = 0.001). The color stability of the tested materials showed comparable results with both brushing protocols.

Conclusion

The tested properties showed variations between the types of denture base resins. Hardness and color stability of CAD‐CAM and thermoformed denture base resins were not altered by denture brushing and showed comparable results with both brushing methods. Surface roughness was the only property that showed alteration after denture brushing.