bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methods for Advancing an Open, Replicable, and Inclusive Science of Social Cognition
Authors: Ledgerwood Alison , da Silva Frost Aline , Kadirvel Sanjana , Maitner Angela T. , Wang Y. Andre , Maddox Keith B.
Published: August 2024

This chapter offers a toolkit of concrete methods and practices that researchers can use to advance open, replicable, and inclusive science. Part One describes how to calibrate confidence in a significant finding to the strength of evidence provided by that finding (e.g. understanding positive predictive value, assessing statistical power, creating effective preregistrations). Part Two describes how to calibrate the scope of a study’s conclusions to the participants and stimuli sampled for that study (e.g. reporting more complete sample characteristics, writing constraints on generality statements, forming effective cross-cultural collaborations). Part Three discusses the importance of approaching the science of social cognition from a range of vantage points and offers recommendations for improving diversity and inclusion in the field (e.g. building diverse and inclusive research teams, understanding positionality). Part Four offers strategies for researchers in different career stages to help change the field’s incentive structures to better support all of these practices.
Military Rule and Emergency Powers
Authors: Ramraj Victor V.
Published: August 2024

Constitutional law bears a strained relationship to military rule and emergency powers in Southeast Asia. The very dissimilar cases of military rule (Myanmar, Thailand, and Timor-Leste) and emergency powers (Timor-Leste, Malaysia, and Thailand) in this chapter exemplify the diversity of Southeast Asia’s experience, ranging from clear-cut examples to ambiguous situations, intertwined in practice, that elude conceptual distinction. The ability to send the military “back to barracks” or to contain emergency powers is a key barometer of constitutionalism. Democratic consolidation is particularly vulnerable when a powerful military remains in place, institutions of civilian rule are not deeply rooted, and civilian rule relies on the military’s forbearance. The challenge surrounding military rule and emergency powers is to determine—in each particular confluence of history, culture, society, politics, military might, and legal ordering—the unique constellation of norms, institutions, and mechanisms by which the arbitrary exercise of power might effectively be constrained.
Parenthood
Authors: Schuster Alexander
Published: August 2024

The relationship between parenting and sexual orientation and gender identity has significantly impacted family law. History shows that legal recognition of the couple does not simultaneously bring access to adoption and medically assisted reproduction. Parentage agreements, including surrogacy agreements, are becoming more prevalent in legal regulations and represent a shift away from a biological focus towards one that prioritises reproductive responsibility. However, co-parent and stepchild adoptions remain important measures to safeguard children when recognition at birth by operation of law is not possible. Challenges can arise when families relocate to different countries or when international elements are involved. Public policy serves a dual role: it can act as an obstacle to recognizing foreign situations but it can also prevent the application by renvoi of discriminatory or restrictive foreign laws. Gender identity and sexual orientation of the parents can make children vulnerable during crises, particularly if the non-legal parent lacks legal recognition. It is widely accepted that these factors are not acceptable grounds for discrimination in custody cases. Overall, children in LGBTI families are often deprived of legal certainty and protection at birth, and can find themselves vulnerable when the social parent dies or is denied contact by the only legally recognized parent.
Chlorophyll Pigments and Their Synthetic Analogs
Authors: Tamiaki Hitoshi , Kichishima Saki
Published: August 2024

Oxygenic phototrophs use chlorophylls (Chls) as photosynthetically active pigments. A variety of Chl molecules have been found in photosynthetic organisms, including green plants, algae and cyanobacteria. Here, we review their molecular structures with stereochemistry, occurrence in light-harvesting antennas and reaction centers, biosyntheses in the late stage, chemical stabilities and visible absorption maxima in diethyl ether. The observed maxima are comparable to those of semisynthetic Chl analogs, methyl pyropheophorbides, in dichloromethane. The effects of their peripheral substituents and core π-conjugation on the maxima of the monomeric states are discussed. Notably, the oxidation along the molecular x-axis in Chl-a produces its accessory pigments, Chls-b/c, and introduction of an electron-withdrawing formyl group along the y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis affords far-red light absorbing Chls-d/f.
Constraints of Reservoir Pressure and H2O on Pre-eruptive Melt Accumulation and Migration under Water-Rich Systems Based on the Volcanic–Plutonic Connection in the East Kunlun Orogen, Northern Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zou Bowen , Ma Changqian
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the volcanic–plutonic relationship has been a contentious topic among researchers. Based on this issue, they have delved deeper into the constraints of magma reservoir pressure and H2O on pre-eruptive melt accumulation and migration. We selected granodiorite, tonalite, and rhyolite in the Dehailonggang volcanic–plutonic complex to investigate the volcanic–plutonic connection and constraints of reservoir pressure and H2O on the pre-eruptive melt accumulation and migration in water-rich systems. Granodiorite, tonalite, and rhyolite exhibit temporal–spatial similarities (247 Ma) and the same magmatic origin consisting of ca. 75–80% enriched mantle materials mixed with ca. 20–25% lower crustal materials. TESCAN integrated mineral analyzer (TIMA) shows that both granodiorite and tonalite display a typical cumulate texture. The bulk–rock compositional complementary of the granodiorite, tonalite, and rhyolite, coupled with in situ geochemical signatures of feldspars and zircons, feldspar CSD, and rhyolite–MELTS modeling, indicate that (1) the granodiorite represents the crystal cumulate formed after crystal–melt phase separation of the original mush (OM) in the magma reservoir; (2) the interstitial melt of the OM was extracted, migrated, and ultimately erupted as the rhyolite; (3) the tonalite serves as an intermediate product resulting from the phase separation from the OM to the rhyolite. Rhyolite–MELTS modeling reveals that in water-rich environments, an increase in reservoir pressure (prior to reaching overpressure threshold) can lead to a reduction in melt viscosity. This, in turn, accelerates mechanical compaction and phase separation processes, ultimately shortening the pre-eruptive melt aggregation timescale. In contrast, it is noteworthy that H2O has a relatively minor influence on phase separation in such water-rich systems (> 4 wt. %). This study demonstrates the volcanic–plutonic genetic coupling and highlights the significance of reservoir pressure in controlling the dynamics of pre-eruptive melt within water-rich systems.
Abstract 26: Influence of Blood Type in Umbilical Cord Blood Immune Cell Profile
Authors: Pina Joana , Oliveira Melissa , Gomes Andreia
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Human immune system undergoes a remarkable journey from embryonic stages to infancy, marked by a gradual transition from reliance on innate immunity, which is genetically encoded, to the development of adaptive responses. Variations in immune cell numbers across different blood type (BT) can suggest a potential influence of ABO antigens on early immune cell composition. This interplay between genetic factors, maternal influence, and BT lays the foundation for lifelong immune health and disease susceptibility. ABO BT system, primarily known for its relevance in blood transfusions and organ transplants, has been the research subject exploring its associations with several diseases.

As an early source of biological material, umbilical cord blood (UCB), it has been proven ideal for several diseases’ treatment, research, and diagnostic purposes. UCB also provides a pure sample for studying how genetic and maternal influences shape early immune system characteristics.

Objectives

This study focused on the relationship between BT and the immune system, aiming to understand the influence of BT on the number of nucleated cells, WBC, neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, NRBC, and platelets from UCB samples.

Methods

It was used data from 910 cryopreserved UCB samples from BebéVida, a cryopreservation laboratory in Porto. To compare ABO groups, it was used the Kruskal-Wallis test. Statistically significance was considered for p-value <0.05.

Results

Results revealed significant increases in nucleated cells, WBC, NRBC, neutrophils, and monocytes in AB compared to A, and in O compared to AB. Regarding platelet, group A had more content than O group. Lymphocytes did not significantly differ between all BT tested.

Discussion

This study demonstrated the differences in immune system cells number between the different BT in UCB samples. This could be linked to A and B antigens presence/absence, however more research is needed to clarify.

There are potential links between ABO blood groups and different diseases. This study demonstrated there is different patterns in the immune cells BT regarding UCB-BT, which could represent an important tool to help understand the onset of several diseases or predispositions. Elucidating these relationships, it can advance personalized medicine approaches and improve our understanding of disease predisposition across diverse populations.
Abstract 32: Engineering Cord Blood CD34+ Cells for the Generation of Allogeneic NK or Myeloid Cell Immunotherapies
Authors: Hsieh Emily , Jamison Braxton , Brempelis Katherine , Pudiwitr Jared , Green Kevin , Stoltzman Carrie , von Euw Erika , Delaney Colleen
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Immune cells such as natural killer (NK) cells and myeloid cells are gaining attention as an alternative cellular immunotherapy to traditional chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T due to their vital functions including immune regulation, cytotoxicity, and phagocytosis of tumor cells, respectively. One major challenge to the generation of CAR-NK or CAR-myeloid cells is the ability to effectively engineer these mature immune cells. To address this, we have developed an ex vivo platform to engineer cord blood-derived CD34+ cells to express CARs early in the culture process. These engineered cells can then be expanded and differentiated into NK cells or monocytes and macrophages to target different cancers.

Objectives

We aim to develop engineered NK cell or monocyte and macrophage cell products derived from cord blood for off-the-shelf treatment of hematologic and solid malignancies.

Methods

We designed CARs of interest and cloned the constructs into γ-retroviral or lentiviral backbones to generate viral vectors. To generate engineered immune cells, we first isolated and pooled cord blood-derived CD34+ cells, which are expanded in an ex vivo cell culture process using a proprietary Notch ligand. Early in the process, the CD34+ cells are engineered by viral delivery. These engineered cells then follow additional phase(s) of culturing to differentiate into NK or myeloid cells. The cell cultures are assessed throughout the process for CAR expression and phenotyping is performed on differentiated cells according to the respective cell type.

Results

Engineering of cord blood-derived CD34+ cells to express CARs followed by differentiation resulted in engineered NK or myeloid cells that maintain viability and phenotyping comparable to non-engineered cells. The engineered immune cells can be cryopreserved and thawed while retaining CAR expression and CAR-specific anti-tumor function in vitro.

Discussion

The versatility of this platform is demonstrated by the ability to generate CAR-NK or CAR-myeloid cells from the same CD34+ cells that are engineered early, followed by directed differentiation. Not only is this approach significantly more cost-effective, it creates the potential to address more targets to drive anti-tumor immune responses. We are currently optimizing the engineering process, exploring non-viral engineering strategies, and designing payloads that are unique for each immune cell type.

Overview of the generation of engineered NK or myeloid cell products from cord blood-derived CD34+ cells
SLUSH peptides of the PSMβ family enable Staphylococcus lugdunensis to use erythrocytes as a sole source of nutrient iron
Authors: Sekar Sharmila , Schwarzbach Selina , Nega Mulugeta , Bloes Dominik Alexander , Smeds Emanuel , Kretschmer Dorothee , Foster Timothy J. , Heilbronner Simon
Published: August 2024

During infection, the host employs nutritional immunity to restrict access to iron. Staphylococcus lugdunensis has been recognized for its ability to utilize host‐derived heme to overcome iron restriction. However, the mechanism behind this process involves the release of hemoglobin from erythrocytes, and the hemolytic factors of S. lugdunensis remain poorly understood. S. lugdunensis encodes four phenol‐soluble modulins (PSMs), short peptides with hemolytic activity. The peptides SLUSH A, SLUSH B, and SLUSH C are β‐type PSMs, and OrfX is an α‐type PSM. Our study shows the SLUSH locus to be essential for the hemolytic phenotype of S. lugdunensis. All four peptides individually exhibited hemolytic activity against human and sheep erythrocytes, but synergism with sphingomyelinase was observed exclusively against sheep erythrocytes. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that SLUSH is crucial for allowing the utilization of erythrocytes as the sole source of nutritional iron and confirm the transcriptional regulation of SLUSH by Agr. Additionally, our study reveals that SLUSH peptides stimulate the human immune system. Our analysis identifies SLUSH as a pivotal hemolytic factor of S. lugdunensis and demonstrates its concerted action with heme acquisition systems to overcome iron limitation in the presence of host erythrocytes.
Novel ultrasound capsule endoscopy for gastrointestinal scanning: An in vivo animal study
Authors: Chen Yi-Zhi , Qiu Xiao-Ou , Wang Lei , Jiang Xi , Su Xiao-Ju , Xia Jing-Song , Liao Zhuan , Li Zhao-Shen
Published: August 2024

Background and objectives

EUS is an important modality for diagnosis and assessment of gastrointestinal (GI) subepithelial lesions. However, EUS is invasive and operator-dependent and requires sedation in most cases. The newly developed ultrasound capsule endoscopy (USCE) system, with both white-light and ultrasound imaging modalities, is a minimally invasive method for superficial and submucosal imaging of the esophagus. This animal study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the USCE system for upper GI tract and small bowel scanning.

Methods

Three Bama miniature pigs were selected to scan their esophagus, stomach, small bowel, and simulated submucosal lesions. USCE was performed first, followed by EUS. The feasibility of USCE was measured by obtaining ultrasound images of normal GI walls and submucosal lesions under the guidance of optical viewing. The efficacy of USCE was evaluated by comparing tissue structures and lesion features shown on ultrasound images obtained with both instruments.

Results

Under the optical mode of USCE, the GI tract was well visualized, and all simulated lesions were located. Clear ultrasound images of normal GI tract and submucosal lesions were acquired. Ultrasound images of the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel were characterized by differentiated multilayer structures on USCE, which was consistent with the structures displayed on EUS. And the visualization of submucosal lesions, using both USCE and EUS, was characterized by a hypoechoic and well-demarcated mass in the layer of submucosa.

Conclusions

This animal study indicated the feasibility and potential clinical efficacy of this USCE for simultaneous optical mucosal visualization and transmural ultrasound imaging of upper GI tract and small bowel, providing possibility of using this technology for a wider range of GI tract.
Consensus guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic pseudocyst and walled-off necrosis from a Chinese multiple disciplinary team expert panel
Authors: Zhu Huiyun , Du Yiqi , Wang Kaixuan , Li Zhaoshen , Jin Zhendong
Published: August 2024

Objective

To prepare a set of practice guidelines to standardize the entire process, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, for pancreatic pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis.

Methods

Thirty-six experts in the fields of digestive endoscopy, pancreatic surgery, interventional radiology, and others presented their opinions via discussions in online conferences by referring to the patient, intervention, comparison, and outcomes principles and then reviewed the evidence and statements using the Delphi method to reach a consensus. The consensus of >80% was finally achieved for the items.

Results

The experts discussed and reached a consensus on 29 statements including 10 categories: (1) definition and classification, (2) imaging and endoscopic diagnosis, (3) therapeutic implications, (4) surgical therapy, (5) percutaneous catheter drainage, (6) endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, (7) EUS-guided drainage, (8) stent selection for EUS-guided drainage, (9) complication related to stents for cyst drainage, and (10) drug treatment and follow-up.

Conclusion

This consensus based on the clinical experience of experts in various fields and international evidence-based medicine further standardizes the multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment processes for pancreatic pseudocysts and walled-off necrosis.
Independent effects of transcranial direct current stimulation and social influence on pain
Authors: Dehghani Amin , Bango Carmen , Murphy Ethan K. , Halter Ryan J. , Wager Tor D.
Published: August 2024

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive neuromodulatory technique with the potential to provide pain relief. However, tDCS effects on pain are variable across existing studies, possibly related to differences in stimulation protocols and expectancy effects. We investigated the independent and joint effects of contralateral motor cortex tDCS (anodal vs cathodal) and socially induced expectations (analgesia vs hyperalgesia) about tDCS on thermal pain. We employed a double-blind, randomized 2 × 2 factorial cross-over design, with 5 sessions per participant on separate days. After calibration in Session 1, Sessions 2 to 5 crossed anodal or cathodal tDCS (20 minutes 2 mA) with socially induced analgesic or hyperalgesic expectations, with 6 to 7 days between the sessions. The social manipulation involved videos of previous “participants” (confederates) describing tDCS as inducing a low-pain state (“analgesic expectancy”) or hypersensitivity to sensation (“hyperalgesic expectancy”). Anodal tDCS reduced pain compared with cathodal stimulation (F(1,19.9) = 19.53, P < 0.001, Cohen d = 0.86) and analgesic expectancy reduced pain compared with hyperalgesic expectancy (F(1,19.8) = 5.62, P = 0.027, Cohen d = 0.56). There was no significant interaction between tDCS and social expectations. Effects of social suggestions were related to expectations, whereas tDCS effects were unrelated to expectancies. The observed additive effects provide novel evidence that tDCS and socially induced expectations operate through independent processes. They extend clinical tDCS studies by showing tDCS effects on controlled nociceptive pain independent of expectancy effects. In addition, they show that social suggestions about neurostimulation effects can elicit potent placebo effects.
Qualitative Research on Mindfulness Interventions for Staff Nurses
Authors: Lemke Johanna , Evanson Tracy A.
Published: August 2024

Complexity, workforce shortages, and escalating stressors in the healthcare setting have led to increased turnover and burnout of nursing staff. Mindfulness has been demonstrated to offer a variety of benefits to nurses. This article summarizes the qualitative research on the experience of mindfulness training and practice with the goal of providing evidence-based recommendations for nurse leaders on how to design and implement effective and well-adopted mindfulness programs.
The Impact of Patient Assaults and Aggressive Behaviors on Nursing Personnel's Stress, Well-being, and Intention to Leave Post–COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chipps Esther , Weaver Susan H. , Wood Teresa , Sinnott Loraine T. , McCarthy Kathleen
Published: August 2024

AIM

To describe and compare the prevalence of assaults and aggressive patient behavior among frontline staff in behavioral health (BH), medical-surgical (MS), and emergency department (ED) settings and examine the impact on staff health, work stress, work engagement, and intent to leave their position.

BACKGROUND

Patient verbal and physical assaults have significant staff consequences, including decreased work productivity, increased burnout, job dissatisfaction, absenteeism, turnover, and intentions to leave.

METHODS

Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from a sample of 432 frontline staff working in ED, BH, and MS settings across 3 healthcare systems.

RESULTS

The majority of frontline staff (74%) reported experiencing verbal aggression often/frequently, significantly impacting their mental health, work engagement, stress levels, and intent to leave. All 3 specialty groups reported a significant increase in verbal/psychological assaults and physical assaults since the pandemic's onset.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on assaultive/aggressive behaviors. Nurse leaders must strategize on methods to decrease the normalization of violence against healthcare workers and support research aimed at evidence-based interventions to reduce such incidences of violence and ensure the well-being of healthcare workers.
Applying Quality Improvement Methodology to Standardize Pediatric Urinary Tract Infection Diagnosis and Management throughout a Healthcare System
Authors: Baumer-Mouradian Shannon H. , Bradley Lia C. , Ansari Sadia T. , Chinta Sri S. , Mitchell Michelle L. , Nelson Anika M. , Marusinec Laura E. , Wake Kristine M. , Mantey Karie A. , Cabrera Ilanalee C. , De Valk Jessica A. , Hanson Aaron P. , Witkowski Elizabeth M. , Bushee Glenn M. , Ellison Jonathan S.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Pediatric urinary tract infections (UTIs) require early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to avoid short- and long-term morbidity. Baseline data from 13,000 children across a regional health system demonstrated wide variation in UTI management, including antibiotic choice, duration, and dosing. In 2019, the local antibiotic stewardship team recommended cephalexin as the ideal first-line UTI treatment due to its effectiveness, narrow spectrum, low cost, and palatability. This project aimed to improve first-line prescription of cephalexin as an empiric antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated UTIs from 34% to 75% in children 60 days to 18 years of age presenting to any site within the healthcare system within 6 months.

Methods:

A multidisciplinary team of key stakeholders reviewed baseline data and developed three key drivers. These included a standardized UTI pathway, electronic health record enhancements, and provider education. Interventions were supported by a literature review and implemented via Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles with data monitored bimonthly. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients prescribed cephalexin for presumed UTI over the total number of presumed UTI diagnoses treated with empiric antibiotics throughout the healthcare system. The balancing measure included 14-day return visits for a UTI-related diagnosis across the system.

Results:

After the release of the updated UTI pathway, first-line cephalexin prescribing for UTI improved from 34% to 66%. There was no change in 14-day revisits for UTI.

Conclusions:

Standardizing the diagnosis and management of UTIs across the spectrum of coordinated care led to improved system-wide adherence to local antibiotic stewardship guidelines for empiric UTI treatment.
“Let’s better not choose someone with HIV”: Dutch professionals’ attitudes and job promotion decisions regarding candidates living with HIV and the mediating role of employability concerns
Authors: Gaetani Marco , Schelleman-Offermans Karen , Jonas Kai J.
Published: August 2024

Despite advancements in HIV health management, workplace stigma against people living with HIV (PLHIV) prevails. However, current literature has focused on labor market access rather than job promotion for PLHIV. This study investigated how professionals living with HIV are perceived compared to those with other chronic health conditions, and explored how employability concerns mediate the association between stigmatizing attitudes and discriminatory practices against PLHIV in job promotions.

A nationally representative sample of 640 heterosexual and HIV-negative Dutch professionals completed an online questionnaire designed with input from professionals living with HIV for a cross-sectional study. Data was analyzed using multidimensional unfolding (MDU) to uncover latent dimensions driving participants’ perceptions of PLHIV and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the mediating role of employability concerns.

The MDU analysis revealed that participants held similar perceptions of and attitudes towards job promotion applicants living with HIV and applicants surviving cancer, compared to those living with other chronic conditions. The SEM showed that prejudice and support for discriminatory policies were significantly associated with discriminatory behavior towards PLHIV, while stereotypes and social distancing attitudes were not. Employability concerns partially and fully mediated, respectively, the relationship between prejudice and support for discriminatory policies, and discriminatory decision-making.

Consistent with previous research on discriminatory hiring practices, our findings highlight the crucial role of employability concerns in driving job promotion discrimination against PLHIV and the need to address knowledge gaps about HIV as a manageable condition among Dutch professionals as a means to combat stigma and safeguard careers of PLHIV.
FGR Src Family Kinase Causes Signaling and Phenotypic Shift Mimicking Retinoic Acid-Induced Differentiation of Leukemic Cells
Authors: Kazim Noor , Peng Wang , Yue Jianbo , Yen Andrew
Published: August 2024

Retinoic acid (RA) is an embryonic morphogen used in cancer differentiation-therapy. It causes a plethora of changes in gene expression culminating in cell differentiation. We now find that amongst them, expression of the Src-family-kinase, FGR, by itself causes cell differentiation analogous to RA. The historically dominant/classical paradigm for RA mechanism of action is transcriptional activation via binding to the ligand-activated nuclear receptors, RAR/RXR. In the HL-60 human myelo-monocytic leukemia model, an actively proliferating, phenotypically immature, lineage bi-potent NCI-60 cell line, RA causes election of the myeloid lineage and phenotypic maturation with G1/0 growth inhibition. It thereby converts transformed immature proliferating tumor cells to mature growth retarded cells that bear fidelity to non-transformed mature myeloid cells. The present study finds that expression of the FGR SFK(SRC-family-kinase) alone is sufficient to induce differentiation. Akin to RA, the phenotypic conversion manifests as expression of CD38, CD11b, and ROS, as well as the p27(kip1) CDKI (cyclin-dependent-kinase-inhibitor that retards cells in G1/0) characteristic of mature myeloid cells. To pursue mechanistic insight, signaling attributes known to promote RA-induced differentiation were analyzed to see what FGR affected. RA is known to cause expression of FGR which is incorporated into and activates a putative novel cytosolic macromolecular signaling machine(signalsome) that propels differentiation. RA enhances the abundance of signalsome constituents, their associations, and their phosphorylation. The signalsome contains connected nodes that appear as a spine to which the other components are connected. The apparent “nodes” are RAF, LYN, FGR, SLP-76 and CBL. All of these become enriched in the nucleus after RA-treatment. NUMB and VAV appear to provide further scaffolding functions enhanced by RA. RAF in the nucleus complexes with a RARE (retinoic acid-response-element) in the promoter of the blr1 gene, which encodes a serpentine G-protein-coupled-receptor. blr1 transcriptional activation by RA depends on RAF binding. BLR1 expression is necessary to propel RA-induced differentiation, although by itself is not sufficient to cause phenotypic differentiation. Analyzing this signaling process revealed that expression of FGR mimics RA-induced enhancement of the signalsome nodes, enhancing expression of RAF and its phosphorylation, and causing BLR1 expression. Interestingly, for cd38 and blr1, FGR apparently causes expression of genes targeted by RAR/RXR even without RA. FGR thus appears to cause signaling events and phenotypic shift characteristic of RA. In sum, the data indicate that FGR is the “trigger” for RA-induced differentiation. Given the historical perception of FGR as a pro-proliferation, transforming-viral-oncogene, this is a surprising paradigm shift.
Stabilized marker gene identification and functional annotation from single-cell transcriptomic data
Authors: Acharya Sandesh , Kossinna Pathum , Zhang Qingrun , GUO JIAMI
Published: August 2024

With the rapid emergence of single-cell transcriptomics datasets, reproducible marker genes and functional annotation of cell type or state are becoming increasingly important. Conventional methods that rely on differential gene expression (DEG) analysis lack both consistency across datasets and functional annotations of selected markers. Here, we present scSCOPE, an R- based platform that utilizes stabilized LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) feature selection, bootstrapped co-expression networks, and pathways enrichment to identify reproducible and functionally relevant marker genes and associated pathways for cell type identification and functional annotation in scRNAseq datasets. Using 8 scRNAseq datasets of immune cell types from human and mouse tissues generated by different sequencing technologies, we show that scSCOPE outperforms other popular methods by automatically identifying marker genes and pathways with the highest consistency across all datasets. We also demonstrate that scSCOPE's gene co-expression and pathway analyses provide in-depth molecular insights into the functionality of identified marker genes. We anticipate that scSCOPE will greatly improve cell type/state annotation and accelerate the design of experimental validation and functional investigations on cell heterogeneity.
Enhancement of pair production in oscillated overlapped fields
Authors: Sawut Adiljan , Li Ying-Jun , Jiang Miao , Xie Bai-Song
Published: August 2024

The electron-positron pair production has been investigated in two overlapped potential wells with varied widths and frequencies. Notably, specific multiphoton absorption processes exhibit distinct changes, the total number of created pairs increases linearly, and appears in periodic oscillation with the spatial extends of the potential wells. Furthermore, the investigation revealed the crucial impact of the smaller frequency on the pair production yield. The optimal combination of frequencies was determined to enhance the creation of pairs in overlapped fields. These findings provide valuable insights into the dynamics of multiphoton absorption processes and offer a pathway toward maximizing pair creation in complex potential landscapes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Prediction of the treatment effect of FLASH radiotherapy with synchrotron radiation from the Circular Electron–Positron Collider (CEPC)
Authors: Zhang Junyu , Wu Xiangyu , Qi Pengyuan , Wang Jike
Published: August 2024

The Circular Electron–Positron Collider (CEPC) in China can also work as an excellent powerful synchrotron light source, which can generate high-quality synchrotron radiation. This synchrotron radiation has potential advantages in the medical field as it has a broad spectrum, with energies ranging from visible light to X-rays used in conventional radiotherapy, up to several megaelectronvolts. FLASH radiotherapy is one of the most advanced radiotherapy modalities. It is a radiotherapy method that uses ultra-high dose rate irradiation to achieve the treatment dose in an instant; the ultra-high dose rate used is generally greater than 40 Gy s−1, and this type of radiotherapy can protect normal tissues well. In this paper, the treatment effect of CEPC synchrotron radiation for FLASH radiotherapy was evaluated by simulation. First, a Geant4 simulation was used to build a synchrotron radiation radiotherapy beamline station, and then the dose rate that the CEPC can produce was calculated. A physicochemical model of radiotherapy response kinetics was then established, and a large number of radiotherapy experimental data were comprehensively used to fit and determine the functional relationship between the treatment effect, dose rate and dose. Finally, the macroscopic treatment effect of FLASH radiotherapy was predicted using CEPC synchrotron radiation through the dose rate and the above-mentioned functional relationship. The results show that the synchrotron radiation beam from the CEPC is one of the best beams for FLASH radiotherapy.
Solving the periodic coupled operator matrix equations via BCR iterative method and its application in periodic state feedback pole assignment
Authors: Wang Wenling , Song Caiqin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to study the constraint solutions of the periodic coupled operator matrix equations by the biconjugate residual algorithm. The new algorithm can solve a lot of constraint solutions including Hamiltonian solutions and symmetric solutions, as special cases. At the end of this paper, the new algorithm is applied to the pole assignment problem.

Design/methodology/approach

When the studied periodic coupled operator matrix equations are consistent, it is proved that constraint solutions can converge to exact solutions. It is demonstrated that the solutions of the equations can be obtained by the new algorithm with any arbitrary initial matrices without rounding error in a finite number of iterative steps. In addition, the least norm-constrained solutions can also be calculated by selecting any initial matrices when the equations of the periodic coupled operator matrix are inconsistent.

Findings

Numerical examples show that compared with some existing algorithms, the proposed method has higher convergence efficiency because less data are used in each iteration and the data is sufficient to complete an update. It not only has the best convergence accuracy but also requires the least running time for iteration, which greatly saves memory space.

Originality/value

Compared with previous algorithms, the main feature of this algorithm is that it can synthesize these equations together to get a coupled operator matrix equation. Although the equation of this paper contains multiple submatrix equations, the algorithm in this paper only needs to use the information of one submatrix equation in the equation of this paper in each iteration so that different constraint solutions of different (coupled) matrix equations can be studied for this class of equations. However, previous articles need to iterate on a specific constraint solution of a matrix equation separately.
Income inequality persistence in African countries: financial regulation and military expenditure roles
Authors: Jungo João , Madaleno Mara , Botelho Anabela
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Evidence shows that African countries are confronted with high levels of income inequality. Therefore, it is relevant to approach and analyze the factors contributing to these severe inequality cases. This paper addresses the issue by focusing on the role of financial regulation and military spending.

Design/methodology/approach

We used a sample of 30 African countries and a recent period (2009–2020), employing various instrumental variable estimation techniques to control for endogeneity.

Findings

The results confirm that economic growth aggravates income inequality due to high corruption and political instability. Results confirm that the increase in military spending increases inequality and that financial regulation weakens financial inclusion and also increases income inequality.

Research limitations/implications

The study shows the need for greater control of corruption and the promotion of political stability so that economic growth and financial inclusion can effectively reduce income inequality, as well as the need for a better balance in the drafting of financial regulations and the preparation of military expenditure to safeguard other policy objectives.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to scarce financial, economic, and social literature considering the role of financial regulation and military spending in the persistence of income inequality in African countries. Previous studies disregarded this fact.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-04-2023-0287
From social support to thriving at work via psychological capital: the role of psychosocial safety climate in a weekly study
Authors: Okros Norberth , Vîrgă Delia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Based on the socially embedded model of thriving at work and using the Conservation of Resources theory, this study examines how different resources promote thriving at work. Thus, we investigate the mediating role of psychological capital, as a personal resource, in the positive relationship between social support, as a job resource, and thriving at work, as well as the impact of psychological safety climate, as an organizational resource, on thriving and its moderating role in the relationship between psychological capital and thriving at work.

Design/methodology/approach

Eighty correctional officers (NL2 = 80) completed self-reported questionnaires at the beginning of the study and throughout six consecutive weeks (NL1 = 480), yielding a multi-level dataset.

Findings

The results supported the proposed weekly mediated process, also confirming the fact that a psychosocial safety climate has a positive effect on thriving at work. However, no moderation of the psychosocial safety climate was found.

Practical implications

In an environment with social support, correctional officers are full of hope at work, resilient, confident, and optimistic, contributing to increased energy and learning. Also, supervisors should promote psychological well-being at work to increase thriving.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study pertains to exploring the relationship between the psychosocial safety climate and thriving at work, as well as the role that various resources play in promoting thriving among correctional officers.
Enhancing financial resilience of women-owned SMEs in the aftermath of COVID-19 pandemic: the antecedent role of social capital
Authors: Odoch Hojops J.P. , Namono Rehema , Wofuma Gorden
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Scientific knowledge is rich with literature on the antecedent role of social capital on resilience. However, empirical evidence has overlooked the role of the individual dimensions of bonding and bridging social capital on its outcomes. This study aims to extend empirical research on the influence of social capital facets of bonding social capital and bridging social capital on financial resilience and more specifically in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic where women SMEs mostly need bonding.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses an explanatory research design to determine the hypothesized effect of social capital on financial resilience. The authors used regression to test the hypothesized relationship using a sample of three hundred and eight four women-owned SMEs in Kampala registered with Kampala City Traders Association.

Findings

According to the findings, the social bonding provides female entrepreneurs with emotive encouragement and inspiration through personal connections and responsibility sharing. Furthermore, women entrepreneurs bridging, which consisted of business networks, made it easier for them to identify new financial opportunities, which ultimately led to an increase in their financial resilience. The findings placed an emphasis on the significance of fellow business owners as sources of knowledge and assets that are crucial to maintaining one's financial resilience.

Research limitations/implications

Data were collected from women owned SMEs, and the application of the findings may be limited to women SMEs in Kampala District. Therefore, future research should replicate the current study findings using a sample drawn from other SMEs owned by both male and female from outside Kampala because of changes in operating environment. The study was cross-sectional, and financial resilience of a firm changes was periodical. This study paves the way for future longitudinal research in the same topic area, which will allow for a more complete comprehension of the financial resiliency of SMEs throughout a range of different time periods.

Practical implications

Research findings shape trajectory for current practitioners of SMEs to establish relevant social bonding and bridging as social capital in preparation for financial resilience in case of any pandemic.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to establish the antecedent role of social capital on financial resilience during an economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, using a sample of women-owned medium- and small-sized businesses in Kampala.
Addition of nitrous oxide and oxygen to carbon dioxide pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic surgery for pain reduction: A double‐blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Verguts Jasper , Soors Eline , Callebaut Ina , Evers Stefan , Vandenbrande Jeroen , Ceulemans Angelique , Smeets Wouter , Tmimi Layth Al , Stessel Björn
Published: August 2024

Objective

To examine if peritoneal conditioning with an altered insufflation gas mixture is associated with reduced postoperative pain intensity compared to the standard insufflation gas (i.e., 100% CO2).

Design

A prospective, single‐centre, randomized, double‐blind, superiority trial was performed.

Setting

This study was conducted between 4 April 2019 and 10 February 2022 at the Jessa Hospital, Hasselt, Belgium.

Population

Patients scheduled for elective gynaecologic laparoscopic surgery.

Methods

Seventy‐four patients scheduled for elective gynaecologic laparoscopic surgery were randomised to receive either the standard insufflation gas with 100 CO2 (n = 37; control group) or the altered gas mixture of 86% CO2, 10% N2O and 4% O2 (n = 37; experimental group).

Main Outcome Measures

Postoperative pain was assessed at 4, 8 and 24 hours after surgery and on postoperative day (POD) 7 by an 11‐point Numeric Rating Scale, with 0 indicating no pain and 10 indicating worst imaginable pain.

Results

No significant differences were found between the control and experimental groups regarding postoperative pain at 4, 8 and 24 h after surgery, as well as on POD7. In addition, the median (25% and 75%) total amount of IV piritramide consumption during the first 24 h after surgery was not significantly different between groups (control group: 18.0 [10.0, 27.0] mg vs. experimental group: 17.0 [10.0, 34.0] mg, p = 0.62).

Conclusion

The alternative insufflation gas mixture comprising 86% CO2, 10% N2O and 4% O2 used for the pneumoperitoneum during gynaecologic laparoscopic surgery does not appear to reduce postoperative pain compared to the standard insufflation gas of 100% CO2.
Intracellular pyruvate as one of the major bioactive substances of lactic acid bacteria isolated from kimchi
Authors: Kang Jin Yong , Lee Moeun , Song Jung Hee , Choi Eun Ji , Mun So Yeong , Kim Daun , Lim Seul Ki , Kim Namhee , Park Bo Yeon , Chang Ji Yoon
Published: August 2024

The present study aimed to identify the metabolites associated with the physiological activity of kimchi‐derived lactic acid bacteria (LAB). A clear difference was observed between the 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging rates when the pyruvate content was high (273.5 ng/µL; radical removal speed 6.50% per min) and the rates when the pyruvate content had decreased (131.9 ng/µL; radical removal speed 3.63% per min). Additionally, the characteristics of LAB antioxidant activity (increase in ABTS radical scavenging activity with reaction time, low level of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity) were similar to those of pyruvate‐derived activity. Hydrogen peroxide content (WiKim0124, 2.08 → 0.26; WiKim0121, 0.99 → 0.47; WiKim39, 1.93 → 0.24) and lactate dehydrogenase activity (WiKim0124, 1.53 → 0.00; WiKim0121, 0.73 → 0.01; WiKim39, 1.72 → 0.02) decreased more in heat‐killed LAB than in non‐heat‐killed LAB. Accordingly, this resulted in increased pyruvate content and the inhibitory activity of lipid peroxide production increased by 2–3 times. Our findings indicate that pyruvate is one of the major metabolites regulating LAB physiological activity.

Practical Application

The safety of utilizing live probiotics remains a topic of debate. To mitigate associated risks, there is a growing interest in non‐viable microorganisms or microbial cell extracts for use as probiotics. Various methods can be employed for probiotic inactivation. Heat treatment typically emerges as the preferred choice for inactivating probiotic strains in many instances. The present study shows the distinctions between inactivating lactic acid bacteria (LAB) through heat treatment and non‐heat treatment. It may serve as a valuable reference for selecting an appropriate inactivation method for LAB in industrial processes.
Growth, persistence and toxin production of pathogenic bacteria in plant‐based drinking milk alternatives
Authors: Kain Theresa , Albahri Manar , Plötz Madeleine , Jessberger Nadja
Published: August 2024

The present study investigated the microbiological safety of the increasingly popular plant‐based milk alternatives. No (10/27) or only very low microbial counts (17/27) were detected in the tested products. These were mainly identified as spore formers via MALDI‐ToF‐MS. Three products contained Bacillus cereus group isolates, which were able to form considerable amounts of enterotoxins and exhibited cytotoxicity towards CaCo‐2 cells. Preliminary tests showed good growth of B. cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella enterica in all tested products (maximum bacterial counts: 5 × 1012 cfu/mL). These experiments also revealed strain‐, time‐, and temperature‐, but especially product‐specific enterotoxin production of B. cereus. In propagation and persistence tests according to DIN EN ISO 20976‐1:2019‐09, rapid bacterial proliferation was also detected in all products. B. cereus generally showed lower bacterial counts (106–107 cfu/mL) compared to L. monocytogenes and S. enterica (108–109 cfu/mL), but was detectable in a larger number of products over the test period of 6 weeks. pH values decreased (20/27) over time and visual and/or olfactory alterations (24/27) were observed. The present study provides information on the occurrence, growth and persistence of pathogenic bacteria in plant‐based drinking milk alternatives. It also points out that the accompanying changes in pH, odor, and appearance are not necessarily recognizable to the consumer.

Practical Application

The present study contributes to the understanding of the microbial risk related to plant‐based drinking milk alternatives. It is crucial that the manufacturer ensures that particularly spore formers have been effectively eliminated from the products. Among them, especially toxin‐producing bacteria can pose a risk to the consumer, as these products promote proliferation and persistence of the bacteria.