bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defect-induced modifications in electronic and thermoelectric properties of pentagonal PdX2 (X = Se, S) monolayers
Authors: Sharma Mridu , Nag Shagun , Kumar Ranjan , Singh Ranber
Published: May 2024

The point defects induced in crystalline solids during the growth process unintentionally or doped intentionally after the growth process significantly modify their properties. The intentionally controlled doping of point defects in crystalline solids has been widely used to tune their properties. In this paper, we investigate the effect of vacancy and substitutional point defects on the electronic and thermoelectric properties of pentagonal PdX2 (X = Se, S) monolayers using the density functional theory (DFT) and semi-classical Boltzmann transport theory. We find that the point defects in pentagonal PdX2 (X = Se, S) monolayers modify their electronic structures. The contributions of d orbitals of Pd atoms and p orbitals of Se/S atoms are significantly affected due to the presence of point defects in the lattice. The defect states are appeared within the band gap region which effectively reduces the band gap of the monolayer. These defect states could be helpful in tuning the electrical and optical properties of the monolayer. The defect states appear within the band gaps of defective monolayer structures which effectively modifies the electronic properties of these monolayer structures. The transport calculations show that the presence of the point defects in the lattice reduces the thermoelectric performance of these PdX2 monolayers. Both the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity show deteriorated behaviour under the influence of point defects in the lattice. Thus, the influence of these defects must be carefully taken into account while fabricating these materials for practical applications.
Material selection for milling fixture of friction stir welding using simulia
Authors: Pandav Appasaheb N , Patil Ratan A , Pandipati Suman
Published: May 2024

Friction stir welding is an innovative welding technique that joins two different materials without the need for consumables. The process involves a profiled probe and shoulder tool that is rotated and plunged between the two workpieces at the interface during the friction stir process. The weld zone undergoes dynamic recrystallization, resulting in a strong bond between the materials. This method offers superior bonding compared to traditional arc welding. In the context of conventional or non-traditional milling machines, friction stir welding is performed. It is necessary to use a milling fixture to attach the plates that need to be butt and lap welded, fixture can be used in underwater FSW. To ensure the workpiece is securely held in place, a fixture or holder is necessary. In this article, friction-stir welding, and a fixture with a clamping setup are constructed. The fixture is carefully designed to consider the movement of the instrument and workpiece, and it is manufactured using CatiaV6 3D experience software. The fixture is then subjected to three different types of testing using Simulia software. The materials tested include cast iron, die steel, and tool steel. After simulation analysis, the best material for friction-stir welding operations is selected.
Gram-scale approach for β-costic acid via allylic oxidation of β-selinene
Authors: Matsushima Yoshitaka , Iwata Kosuke
Published: May 2024

β-Costic acid is a sesquiterpene phytoalexin with acaricidal activity against Varroa destructor and antitrypanosomal activity. A concise and efficient method was developed for the synthesis of β-costic acid via the allylic oxidation of β-selinene, a component of celery seed oil.
Malus toringoides(Rehd.) Hughes decoction alleviates isoproterenol-induced cardiac fibrosis by inhibiting cardiomyocyte inflammation and pyroptosis via the HK1/NLRP3 signaling pathway
Authors: Du Huiru , Zhang Yuling , Guo Haochuan , Cheng Xizhen , Tian Haolin , Wang Yanan , Wang Hongfang , Song Yongxing , Duan Xuhong , Ma Donglai
Published: May 2024

Malus toringoides (Rehd.) Hughes, called “Eseye (Ese),” is a traditional medicinal plant from the Tibet province of China that has proven effective in treating cardiac conditions due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic properties. In this study, we explored the underlying protective mechanisms of Ese decoction in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiac fibrosis (CF) and established the fact that treatment with an Ese decoction attenuated tissue injury, decreased the release of IL-1β, IL-18, TNF-α, and caspase-3, and elevated the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio in CF mice. We also found that with Ese treatment damage to the mitochondrial ultrastructure of myocardium was alleviated, and the level of reactive oxygen species was markedly diminished. Ese inhibited the expression of proteins associated with pyroptosis by the HK1/NLRP3 signaling pathway and also improved CF. Due to the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiapoptotic characteristics of Ese decoction, we found that Ese protected against ISO-induced CF, by inhibiting inflammation and pyroptosis as mediated by the HK1/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
Immune profiling reveals umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells from South India display an IL-8 dominant, CXCL-10 deficient polyfunctional monocyte response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns that is distinct from adult blood cells
Authors: Adiga Vasista , Bindhu Hima , Ahmed Asma , Chetan Kumar Nirutha , Tripathi Himanshu , D’Souza George , Dias Mary , Shivalingaiah Sudarshan , Rao Srishti , K N Shanti , Hawrylowicz Catherine , Dwarkanath Pratibha , Vyakarnam Annapurna
Published: May 2024

Neonate responses to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPS) differ from adults; such understanding is poor in Indian neonates, despite recognized significant infectious risk. Immune profiling analysis was undertaken of 10 secreted mediators contextualized with cellular source induced by six PAMPs in umbilical cord (CB; n = 21) and adult-blood (PBMC; n = 14) from a tertiary care hospital in South India. Differential cytokine expression analysis (minimum log2-fold difference; adj P-value < 0.05) identified bacterial PAMPs induced higher concentrations of IL-1β, IL-10, TNF-α in adults versus IL-8, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and IL-2 in CB. CB responded to poly I:C and SARS-CoV-2 lysate with a dominant IL-8 response, whereas in PBMC, CXCL-10 dominated poly I:C, but not SARS-CoV-2, responses, highlighting potential IL-8 importance, in the absence of Type I Interferons, in antiviral CB immunity. Candida albicans was the only PAMP to uniformly induce higher secretion of effectors in CB. The predominant source of IL-8/IL-6/TNF-α/IL-1β in both CB and PBMC was polyfunctional monocytes and IFN-γ/IL-2/IL-17 from innate lymphocytes. Correlation matrix analyses revealed IL-8 to be the most differentially regulated, correlating positively in CB versus negatively in PBMC with IL-6, GM-CSF, IFN-γ, IL-2, consistent with more negatively regulated cytokine modules in adults, potentially linked to higher anti-inflammatory IL-10. Cord and adult blood from India respond robustly to PAMPs with unique effector combinations. These data provide a strong foundation to monitor, explore, mechanisms that regulate such immunity during the life course, an area of significant global health importance given infection-related infant mortality incidence.
Pulmonary vascular stenosis scoring in fibrosing mediastinitis
Authors: Wang Yangyang , Bu Chao , Zhang Mengdi , Wang Juan , Jiang Kaiyu , Ding Mingwang , Su Hongling , Long Xiaozhou , Jia Mengfei , Li Yu , Cao Yunshan
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study aims to develop a scoring system for evaluating the degree of pulmonary vascular stenosis in fibrosing mediastinitis (FM).

Methods and results

A retrospective single-centre study was conducted on 56 patients with FM in China between April 2014 and August 2021. The involvement of pulmonary vessels in patients with FM was assessed using dual-phase computed tomography pulmonary angiography, and we found that 85.7% of the patients had both pulmonary artery (PA) and vein (PV) involvement. PA involvement was mainly located proximal to both the upper PA and the bilateral basal trunk levels in the lower lungs. The involvement of the superior PV was more common than that of the inferior PV, and the right inferior PV was the least involved. Most of these lesions exhibited moderate or severe stenosis. Additionally, a scoring system for evaluating the degree of pulmonary vascular stenosis was developed. A correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between the final pulmonary vascular score and the pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, and maximum tricuspid regurgitation velocity. The calculated score of 17.1 was the best cut-off value for the diagnosis of mild and severe pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Conclusion

We successfully developed a scoring system for pulmonary vascular stenosis that can be used to evaluate the severity of pulmonary vessel involvement and PH. This scoring system may be relevant in the future development of target-based strategies for percutaneous interventions.
Food Is Medicine for Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Improved Health and Hospitalizations in the Changing Health Through Food Support (CHEFS-HIV) Pragmatic Randomized Trial
Authors: Palar Kartika , Sheira Lila A , Frongillo Edward A , O’Donnell Asher A , Nápoles Tessa M , Ryle Mark , Pitchford Simon , Madsen Kim , Phillips Beth , Riley Elise D , Weiser Sheri D
Published: May 2024

Background

Policy support for “food is medicine”—medically tailored meals or groceries to improve health—is rapidly growing. No randomized trials have heretofore investigated the benefits of medically tailored food programs for people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH).

Methods

The CHEFS-HIV pragmatic randomized trial included PWH who were clients of Project Open Hand (POH), a San Francisco–based nonprofit food organization. The intervention arm (n = 93) received comprehensive medically tailored meals, groceries, and nutritional education. Control participants (n = 98) received less intensive (POH “standard of care”) food services. Health, nutrition, and behavioral outcomes were assessed at baseline and 6 months later. Primary outcomes measured were viral nonsuppression and health-related quality of life. Mixed models estimated treatment effects as differences-in-differences between arms.

Results

The intervention arm had lower odds of hospitalization (odds ratio [OR], 0.11), food insecurity (OR, 0.23), depressive symptoms (OR, 0.32), antiretroviral therapy adherence <90% (OR, 0.18), and unprotected sex (OR, 0.18), as well as less fatty food consumption (β = −.170 servings/day) over 6 months, compared to the control arm. There was no difference between study arms in viral nonsuppression and health-related quality of life over 6 months.

Conclusions

A “food is medicine” intervention reduced hospitalizations and improved mental and physical health among PWH, despite no impact on viral suppression.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03191253.
Escherichia coli isolated from pyometra and cystitis in the same animal exhibit a wide phenotypic similarity
Authors: Moni Camila Azevedo , Dias Maria Eduarda , Lopes Cassiane Elisabete , Siqueira Franciele Maboni
Published: May 2024

Aims

Pyometra and cystitis caused by Escherichia coli are common diseases identified in canine or feline females. The origin of pyometra infection remains uncertain, and effective prevention strategies for this disease are still unknown. This study aimed to provide a phenotypic characterization, including antimicrobial resistance and virulence profiles, of endometrial pathogenic (EnPEC) and uropathogenic (UPEC) E. coli strains isolated simultaneously from the same animal.

Methods and results

Sixteen E. coli strains, from eight different animals, were analyzed in this study. The antimicrobial susceptibility profile of EnPEC and UPEC strains was determined using the disc diffusion method, which showed a similar susceptibility profile among strains (EnPEC and UPEC) from the same animal. The virulence profile of the strains was assessed through biofilm formation, as well as serum resistance abilities. EnPEC and UPEC strains from the same animal exhibited slight variations in their virulence and antimicrobial resistance capabilities. Overall, most of the strain pairs showed a high similarity in their ability to establish biofilms and survive in serum complement activity.

Conclusions

Overall, strains of E. coli isolated from both pyometra and cystitis in the same animal, despite presenting distinct clinical diseases, exhibit a wide phenotypic similarity, suggesting a common origin for the strains.
Venom-microbiomics of eight species of Neotropical spiders from the Theraphosidae family
Authors: Viquez Carlos , Rojas-Gätjens Diego , Mesén-Porras Esteve , Avendaño Roberto , Sasa Mahmood , Lomonte Bruno , Chavarría Max
Published: May 2024

Aim

Tarantulas are one of the largest predatory arthropods in tropical regions. Tarantulas though not lethal to humans, their venomous bite kills small animals and insect upon which they prey. To understand the abiotic and biotic components involved in Neotropical tarantula bites, we conducted a venom-microbiomics study in eight species from Costa Rica.

Methods and results

We determined that the toxin profiles of tarantula venom are highly diverse using shotgun proteomics; the most frequently encountered toxins were ω-Ap2 toxin, neprilysin-1, and several teraphotoxins. Through culture-independent and culture-dependent methods, we determined the microbiota present in the venom and excreta to evaluate the presence of pathogens that could contribute to primary infections in animals, including humans. The presence of opportunistic pathogens with hemolytic activity was observed, with a prominence of Stenotrophomonas in the venoms. Other bacteria found in venoms and excreta with hemolytic activity included members of the genera Serratia, Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Microbacterium, and Morganella.

Conclusions

Our data shed light on the venom- and gut-microbiome associated with Neotropical tarantulas. This information may be useful for treating bites from these arthropods in both humans and farm animals, while also providing insight into the toxins and biodiversity of this little-explored microenvironment.
A statistical approach to Hollywood remake and sequel metadata
Authors: Hołobut Agata , Rybicki Jan , Stelmach Miłosz
Published: May 2024

Hollywood film remakes, as old as the cinema itself, have attracted much professional, critical, and academic attention. They have been viewed by art critics as products of cultural derivativity and imperialism and commended by financial experts as low-risk business investments, closely linked to other forms of brand extension, such as sequels and bestseller adaptations. In this article, we adopt a film-historical quantitative approach to Hollywood film remakes by analysing metadata obtained from the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) and verified against reliable print and web sources. We analyse 986 Hollywood remakes produced between 1915 and 2020 in terms of raw and relative frequencies of annual releases, genre (in)stability, and patterns of transnational reproduction. We contrast our findings with those outlined by Henderson (2014a) in his statistical survey of Hollywood sequels, series films, prequels, and spin-offs, presented in his monograph The Hollywood Sequel: History and Form, 1911–2010. Having completed his list with recent sequential productions released between 2011 and 2020, we investigate the potential parallels between Hollywood remaking and sequelization practices. Our findings demonstrate historical discrepancies in various ‘content recycling’ trends, which help better characterize the cultural and commercial significance of remakes and serial forms in the American film industry.
Widespread Misperceptions Among U.S. Adults About Tobacco Company Engagement in Black and African American Communities
Authors: Sterling Kymberle L , Ganz Ollie , Wackowski Olivia A , Glasser Allison M , Villanti Andrea C
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars (MC/FC) bring profits to U.S. tobacco companies at the cost of Black/African American (B/AA) lives. This exploratory cross-sectional study describes perceptions of tobacco company engagement and activities in B/AA communities related to MC/FC.

Aims and Methods

Among 2307 U.S. adults aged 18–45 surveyed in 2022, six items addressed beliefs about tobacco company funding of B/AA community organizations, payment of B/AA lobbyists to oppose public health policies, support of health equity efforts in B/AA communities, and targeted marketing of MC/FC in B/AA communities. Adjusted proportions were calculated for each belief overall and by race and cigarette smoking status.

Results

Among all adults, 37% believed that tobacco companies deny the harms of MC/FCs, 20% believed they pay Black lobbyists to oppose health policies, and 12% believed they fund Black community organizations. Compared with non-B/AA adults, a higher proportion of B/AA adults believed that tobacco companies target Black communities with MC/FC marketing (62% vs. 46%). More adult smokers (ie, menthol or non-MC) than nonsmokers thought that tobacco companies support health equity efforts and did not target Black communities with MC/FC marketing nor deny the harms of MC/FCs to B/AA communities.

Conclusions

Few B/AAs and adult smokers believed that tobacco companies used B/AA organizations and lobbyists to oppose MC/FC policies in the B/AA community as well as reject MC/FC’s harmfulness. Culturally tailored and community-engaged communication efforts are needed to correct disinformation about MC/FC tobacco companies’ engagement and activities in B/AA communities among B/AA and menthol cigarette smokers.

Implications

Tobacco companies have a history of predatory marketing that promotes flavored tobacco products to Black/African American (B/AA) individuals and more recently has spread disinformation to dissuade policy support for menthol cigarette/flavored cigar (MC/FC) bans. It is unclear what are the perceptions of tobacco company engagement and activities in B/AA communities related to MC/FC. Our study shows that B/AA adults and current cigarette smokers hold misperceptions about tobacco companies’ role in spreading disinformation about MC/FC. This study identified beliefs about the industry’s role in funding B/AA organizations and lobbyists who oppose policy, as well as the industry’s denial of menthol cigarette and flavored cigar harms as potential messaging targets for communication efforts designed to correct disinformation about MC/FC policies among B/AA and those who currently smoke MC.
Hepatitis C Virus Clearance and Diffusing Capacity for Carbon Monoxide in Women With and Without Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Curnow Andrew C , Huang Laurence , Fischl Margaret A , Floris-Moore Michelle , Morris Alison , Nouraie Mehdi , Reddy Divya B , Seaberg Eric C , Sheth Anandi N , Tien Phyllis C , Wang Richard J
Published: May 2024

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with extrahepatic effects, including reduced diffusing capacity of the lungs. It is unknown whether clearance of HCV infection is associated with improved diffusing capacity. In this sample of women with and without human immunodeficiency virus, there was no association between HCV clearance and diffusing capacity.
Mortality and Causes of Death Among Individuals With Keratoconus
Authors: Meyer Jay J. , Meeks Huong , Li Kuan , Guinto Emily , Olson Randall J.
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is an increased risk of mortality among individuals with keratoconus.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, case-control study using the Utah Population Database. Cases were defined as individuals diagnosed with keratoconus from 1996 to 2020 and were matched 5:1 with controls on birth year, sex, whether born in Utah, and follow-up time in Utah. Individuals diagnosed with trisomy 21 or connective tissue disease were excluded. Main outcome measures were the all-cause and cause-specific mortality among keratoconus cases compared with matched controls. Cox regression models were used, additionally adjusting for race and ethnicity.

Results:

A total of 7847 keratoconus cases and 38,597 controls were studied in the final analyses. The mean age at index diagnosis was 43 ± 17 years, and mean age at last follow-up was 54 ± 17 years for both cases and controls. At last follow-up, 92% of cases were living compared with 91% of controls. After adjusting for covariates, there were no significant differences in all-cause mortality (P = 0.161), mortality from natural causes (0.222), or mortality from unnatural causes (P = 0.494) between cases and controls. When analyzed according to specific causes of death, keratoconus cases had a higher mortality risk from diseases of the nervous system and sense organs compared with their matching controls (hazard ratio 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.19–2.11; P = 0.002).

Conclusions:

There was no evidence of an increased risk of mortality among individuals with keratoconus. There may be an increased risk of death due to diseases of the nervous system and sense organs among individuals with keratoconus.
Quality Coordinators’ Perspectives on Quality Improvement in Primary Healthcare in Kosovo: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Baraku Ardita , Pavleković Gordana
Published: May 2024

Aims:

This qualitative descriptive study provides insights into the experiences of quality coordinators (QCs) in primary healthcare to inform policy and practice actions and empower QCs to enhance healthcare quality.

Methods:

We conducted focus group discussions with purposefully selected QCs to understand their motivations, job experiences, factors influencing healthcare quality, and suggestions for quality improvement. Content analysis and deductive coding were used to scrutinize the responses and answer the research questions.

Results:

The QCs thought highly about their job performance and were motivated by both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Clinical audits, collegial reviews, and managerial support positively affected QCs' performance. In contrast, a lack of managerial support, limited working hours, and changes in organizing work caused the opposite. Empowerment and external support positively influenced healthcare quality, whereas lack of resources, managerial support, or training had a negative influence. Suggestions to improve quality include the role of QCs, external supervision, and centralization of the QCs' network.

Conclusion:

Appointing QCs alone does not guarantee quality improvement. It is essential to ensure that QCs have the appropriate skills, tools, management support, and open communication channels. Further research is required to evaluate the effects of sex and age on QCs' performance.
Criteria, Timing, and Factors Associated With Return to Competitive Sport After Rotator Cuff Surgery
Authors: Maggini Emanuele , Tedah Djemetio Mac Donald , Husband Isabella , Paganelli Luca , Saccomanno Maristella F. , Milano Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

Rotator cuff pathology in competitive athletes is common and may produce chronic symptoms and joint disability, impairing sports participation and leading to premature retirement. Athletes are a high-functioning patient population with unique characteristics. Decision-making for return to sport is a complex and multifactorial process. Literature is sparse and does not provide precise guidelines to assist physicians to make the right decision. This review aimed to highlight factors affecting outcome, timing, and criteria for return to competitive sport after rotator cuff surgery to help physicians to clearly counsel athletes and make high-quality decisions for return to sport.
Syndecan-1 Levels and Early Positive Fluid Balance Are Associated With Disease Severity in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Turunen Antti , Kuuliala Krista , Kuuliala Antti , Puolakkainen Pauli , Kylänpää Leena , Hästbacka Johanna , Lindström Outi
Published: May 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to study fluid balance and endothelial glycocalyx degradation, reflected by syndecan-1, and heparan sulfate (HS) levels, in early stages of acute pancreatitis (AP).

Materials and Methods

This study comprised of 210 AP patients (104 mild, 53 moderately severe, 17 severe). Blood was sampled within 72 hours from the onset of symptoms, and plasma syndecan-1 and HS levels were determined using ELISA. Fluid balance up to sampling and up to 4 days was determined retrospectively from medical records.

Results

Syndecan-1 levels predicted severe AP (SAP) in receiver operating characteristic analysis [area under curve 0.699, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.546 to 0.851,P= 0.021]. Increasing AP severity was associated with higher intravenous fluid intake and lower urine output. In multivariate binary logistic regression analysis, positive fluid balance up to sampling [odds ratio (OR) 1.05 per 100 ml, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.11,P= 0.010] and higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score at sampling (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.83,P< 0.001) were independently associated with severe AP, while syndecan-1 level was not.

Conclusions

SAP is associated with high positive fluid balance in the early stages of treatment. Although increased in SAP, syndecan-1 was not independently associated with SAP when controlling for fluid balance and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score.
AHR activation accelerates the resolution of TGF-β1 induced fibroblast activation and promotes alveolar type 1 cell regeneration in alveolar organoids
Authors: Hagan Andrew S. , Williams Scott , Mathison Casey J. N. , Yan Shanshan , Nguyen Bao , Federe Glenn C. , Kuzu Guray , Siefert Joseph C. , Hampton Janice , Chichkov Victor , Barnes S. Whitney , King Frederick J. , Taylor Brandon , Walker John R. , Zhao Rui , Elliott Jimmy , Phillips Dean P. , Fang Bin , Decker Rebekah S.
Published: May 2024

Regeneration of the alveolar epithelium is necessary to restore tissue architecture and gas exchange capabilities in chronic pulmonary diseases such as fibrosing interstitial lung disease. While it is known alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells give rise to alveolar type 1 (AT1) cells to repair the alveolar epithelium after injury, methods to promote this process under pathological settings are poorly understood. Here, using a complex 3D organoid culture with TGF-β1 dependent impaired AT1 spheroid formation, we performed a high-throughput screen (HTS) with ∼16,800 compounds to identify small molecules that increase number of AT1 spheroids. Longitudinal single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed that DB-11-BE87 increased AT1 regeneration by reducing TGF-β1 induced fibroblast activation, concurrently with AHR activation in those cells. These studies highlight a novel HTS system to identify factors that can promote AT1 differentiation and suggest AHR activation as a method to counteract pathological TGF-β1 signaling in pulmonary disease.
Ambulosono-Enhanced Ankle Rotation Training Leads to Significant Gains in Balance Among Healthy Adults
Authors: Hu Bin , Raza Muhammad Farhan , Patel Dhruvil , Wasif Shahryar , Chomiak Taylor
Published: May 2024

The ankle joint, a pivotal element in lower limb-ground interactions, plays a critical role in maintaining gait and balance. In this study, we utilized the Ambulosono device—a sensor- based, music-contingent digital tool designed to assist and monitor ankle training—to investigate the effects of ankle rotation training on functional balance. We measured the durations of the single-leg stand test (SLST) under eyes-closed conditions in a cohort of healthy young adults. Comparisons of pre- and post-training SLST durations were made between the trained and untrained legs within the same subjects. Our findings demonstrated a substantial increase in the SLST durations ipsilateral to the trained ankles, while the untrained ankles in the control legs showed no significant changes. This enhancement in balance function was observed to persist for several hours post-training.
HumanAPOEallelic variants suppress the formation of diffuse and fibrillar Aβ deposits relative to mouseApoein transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer amyloidosis
Authors: Xu Guilian , Sacilotto Patricia , Gorski Carmelina , Bali Parul , Fromholt Susan , Vo Quan , McFarland Karen N , Lu Qing , Borchelt David R , Chakrabarty Paramita
Published: May 2024

Background

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) modulates the deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) aggregates in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in an isoform-dependent manner. In transgenic mouse models of AD-amyloidosis, replacing mouseApoealleles with humanAPOEvariants suppresses fibrillar Aβ deposits. In the PD-APP transgenic mouse model, deletion of theApoegene led to selective reduction of fibrillar deposits with increased diffuse deposits. This finding suggested that apoE may have differential effects on different types of amyloid pathology.

Methods

Here, we investigated the interaction between the type of Aβ pathology in the brain and human apoE isoforms in different transgenic mouse models.

Results

In the APPsi model that develops predominantly diffuse Aβ plaques late in life, we determined that replacing mouseApoewith humanAPOE3orAPOE4genes potently suppressed diffuse amyloid formation, with apoE3 exhibiting a greater activity relative to apoE4. Relative to apoE4, apoE3 appeared to suppress Aβ deposition in the cerebral vasculature. In a second cohort, we accelerated the deposition of diffuse Aβ pathology by seeding, finding that seeded APPsi mice harboringAPOE4orAPOE3developed equal burdens of diffuse parenchymal Aβ. Finally, in the recently developed SAA-APP model that has a mix of dense-core and fibrous Aβ plaques, we found that replacing mouse apoE with human apoE suppressed deposition significantly, with the amyloid burden following the trend ofApoe>>APOE4> APOE3∼APOE2. In the SAA-APP and seeded APPsi models, we found evidence of apoE protein associated with Aβ plaques.

Conclusions

Overall, these observations demonstrate a capacity for human apoE to suppress the deposition of both diffuse and fibrillar-cored deposits, relative to mouse apoE. Notably, in the seeded paradigm, the suppressive activity of human apoE3 and apoE4 appeared to be overwhelmed. Taken together, this study demonstrates thatAPOEgenotype influences the deposition of both cored-fibrillar and diffuse amyloid.
Sliding dynamics for bubble phases on periodic modulated substrates
Authors: Reichhardt C. , Reichhardt C. J. O.
Published: May 2024

We analyze a bubble-forming system composed of particles with competing long-range repulsive and short-range attractive interactions driven over a quasi-one-dimensional periodic substrate. We find various pinned and sliding phases as a function of substrate strength and drive amplitude. When the substrate is weak, a pinned bubble phase appears that depins elastically into a sliding bubble lattice. For stronger substrates, we find anisotropic bubbles, disordered bubbles, and stripe phases. Plastic depinning occurs via the hopping of individual particles from one bubble to the next in a pinned bubble lattice, and as the drive increases, there is a transition to a state where all of the bubbles are moving but are continuously shedding and absorbing individual particles. This is followed at high drives by a moving bubble lattice in which the particles can no longer escape their individual bubbles. The transition between the plastic and elastic sliding phases can be detected via signatures in the velocity-force curves, differential conductivity, and noise. When the bubbles shrink due to an increase in the attractive interaction term, they fit better inside the pinning troughs and become more strongly pinned, leading to a reentrant pinning phase. For weaker attractive terms, the size of the bubbles becomes greater than the width of the pinning troughs and the depinning becomes elastic with a reduced depinning threshold.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Long-range magnetic order in
CePdAl3
enabled by orthorhombic deformation
Authors: Stekiel M. , Čermák P. , Franz C. , Meven M. , Legut D. , Simeth W. , Hansen U. B. , Fåk B. , Weber S. , Schönmann R. , Kumar V. , Nemkovski K. , Deng H. , Bauer A. , Pfleiderer C. , Schneidewind A.
Published: May 2024

We investigate the effect of structural deformation on the magnetic properties of orthorhombic CePdAl3 in relation to its tetragonal polymorph. Utilizing x-ray and neutron diffraction, we establish that the crystal structure has the Cmcm space-group symmetry and exhibits pseudotetragonal twinning. According to density functional calculations, the tetragonal-orthorhombic deformation mechanism has its grounds in the relatively small free enthalpy difference between the polymorphs, allowing either phase to be quenched, and fully accounts for the twinned microstructure of the orthorhombic phase. Neutron diffraction measurements show that orthorhombic CePdAl3 establishes long-range magnetic order below TN=5.29(5) K characterized by a collinear, antiferromagnetic arrangement of magnetic moments. Magnetic anisotropies of orthorhombic CePdAl3 arise from strong spin-orbit coupling as evidenced by the crystal-field splitting of the 4f multiplet, fully characterised with neutron spectroscopy. We discuss the potential mechanism of frustration posed by antiferromagnetic interactions between nearest neighbors in the tetragonal phase, which hinders the formation of long-range magnetic order in tetragonal CePdAl3. We propose that orthorhombic deformation releases the frustration and allows for long-range magnetic order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Non-Markovian gene expression
Authors: Vilk Ohad , Metzler Ralf , Assaf Michael
Published: May 2024

We study two non-Markovian gene-expression models in which protein production is a stochastic process with a fat-tailed nonexponential waiting time distribution (WTD). For both models, we find two distinct scaling regimes separated by an exponentially long time, proportional to the mean first passage time (MFPT) to a ground state (with zero proteins) of the dynamics, from which the system can only exit via a nonexponential reaction. At times shorter than the MFPT the dynamics are stationary and ergodic, entailing similarity across different realizations of the same process, with an increased Fano factor of the protein distribution, even when the WTD has a finite cutoff. Notably, at times longer than the MFPT the dynamics are nonstationary and nonergodic, entailing significant variability across different realizations. The MFPT to the ground state is shown to directly affect the average population sizes and we postulate that the transition to nonergodicity is universal in such non-Markovian models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Resistance to persuasion as a maladaptive coping response to anti Covid-19 message: a protection motivation theory perspective
Authors: Boukamcha Fayçal
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the protection motivation theory’s (PMT) maladaptive coping response to anti-Covid-19 preventive persuasive appeals. PMT is based on coping appraisal that may lead to either an adaptive- or a maladaptive coping response. It has been suggested that the maladaptive coping response is not sufficiently investigated and can be represented by individuals’ resistance to anti-Covid-19 persuasive messages. It has been also supposed that resistance is predicted and modeled through a set of cognitive, affective and individual factors such as information processing style, fear arousal, gender and coping self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

An experiment and a survey were conducted online on a random sample of 290 individuals. The sample was divided into two groups, each of which was exposed to an anti-Covid-19 persuasive message.

Findings

The findings show that resistance to anti-Covid-19 persuasion is not directly predicted by the individual’s exposure to the message, but channeled through an affective and a cognitive process. It was also reported that resistance is predicted by both the reflective and the nonreflective information processing styles, which are in turn predicted by a high versus a low fear arousal. Fear arousal level was shown to be moderated by gender and coping self-efficacy.

Originality/value

This research brings additional insight to the PMT in so far that it highlights the maladaptive coping response through resistance to persuasion in a pandemic context.
CEO gender, critical mass of board gender diversity and ESG performance: UK evidence
Authors: Al-Shaer Habiba , Zaman Mahbub , Albitar Khaldoon
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the relationship between CEO leadership, gender homophily and corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. We also investigate whether it is essential to have a critical mass of women directors on the board to create a significant power of gender diversity in leadership positions.

Design/methodology/approach

Our study is based on firms listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE-All-Share) from 2011 to 2019. CEO characteristics and other board variables were collected from BoardEx, and ESG data, and other related variables were collected from Eikon database.

Findings

We find a critical mass of female directors contributes to ESG performance suggesting that token representation of female directors on boards limits their effectiveness. We do not find support for the gender homophily perspective, our findings suggest that the effectiveness of female CEOs does not depend on the existence of a critical mass of female directors. Female directors and female CEOs are less likely to be associated with ESG activities when firms experience poor financial performance. We also find that younger female CEOs have a positive impact on ESG performance. Furthermore, we find female CEOs with shorter tenure are more likely to improve ESG performance. Overall, our findings suggest a substitutional effect between having female CEOs and gender diverse boards.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the debate on gender homophily in the boardroom and how that may affect ESG practices. It also complements existing academic research on female leadership and ESG performance and has important implications for senior management and policymakers.
An empirical investigation on the use of building handover information and its quality requirements for commercial building management
Authors: Chang Janet , Parlikad Ajith
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Global building failures, such as the Grenfell Tower fire in London, UK, emphasised the need for trustworthy building handover information for safety. However, a notable gap remains in understanding how reliable handover information can ensure the safety of occupants. This study aims to investigate the use and essential quality of handover information to understand the effects of the quality of information on the management of commercial buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

Ninety-four participants from nine organisations who regularly use handover information to manage multiple commercial buildings participated in the semi-structured interviews. Qualitative thematic coding using interview transcripts was performed to identify the utilisation of handover information and its quality requirements.

Findings

This study reveals that as-built drawings and product information are predominately used to fulfil statutory obligations, comply with the organisation’s internal policies, evaluate asset valuation and make informed decisions about capital investment and operating expenses. The quality dimensions of “accuracy”, “timeliness”, and “completeness” are preferred in combination to achieve desired outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

This study focused on using handover information in the management of commercial buildings. However, its results can offer valuable perspectives for improving its application across various sectors in the built environment.

Practical implications

The findings affirm the need for quality handover information for safety, compliance and efficient management in commercial buildings.

Originality/value

This research significantly contributes to the current knowledge of handover information in the building sector. Given the study findings, building owners are equipped to define specific handover information requirements and quality requisites.
The impact of digital platforms on the creativity of remote workers through the mediating role of explicit and tacit knowledge sharing
Authors: Bhatti Sabeen Hussain , Gavurova Beata , Ahmed Adeel , Marcone Maria Rosaria , Santoro Gabriele
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Remote working has brought forward many challenges for employees as the phenomenon is still new for most employees across the globe. Some of these challenges may be addressed by the recent adoption of digital technologies by organizations. In this vein, our study explores the impact of digital platform capability on the creativity of employees through the mediating mechanism of explicit and tacit knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from higher education institutes (HEIs) in a developing country, Pakistan which recently saw a major disruption during the Covid-19 pandemic. The proposed hypotheses were tested through Structural Equational Modeling (SEM) and the results confirmed our hypotheses.

Findings

The findings confirmed that the digital platform capabilities impact both tacit and explicit knowledge sharing among these remote employees. Likewise, the results also supported the mediating role of both explicit and tacit knowledge sharing on the creativity of these remote workers.

Originality/value

Our results are significant as they confirm the impact of digitalization on remote workers’ creativity predisposition. We thus advance the academic debate on the problems of knowledge sharing in remote working. We prove that digital capabilities outweigh the challenges created due to new forms of work driven by the pandemic. It further highlights the important areas to focus on while planning human resource policies in the new normal.
The factors impact on the cashless payment behavior: the IPA model approach
Authors: Dinh Doan Van
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and the trend in industrial development 4.0, the problem is how to conduct transactions of goods and services in the market using cashless payment in Vietnam, as in developed countries. This study aims to investigate, analyze and evaluate the factors affecting cashless payment behavior in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

The QR codes are used for payments because many factors affect the behavior of cashless payments made using electronic payment tools, including QR code tools. To achieve this goal, this study applied behavioral theory and the importance-performance analysis (IPA) model to measure service quality based on the difference between customer opinions on the importance and performance level of service providers’ targets. Survey results were obtained from 111 people living in HCMC, Vietnam, including 47 men and 64 women, which was a survey for 15 criteria.

Findings

According to the IPA results of the first quadrant, managers should focus on allocating their resources toward improving their performance across five key criteria. These criteria are crucial for meeting customers’ expectations and include factors such as product quality, responsiveness to customer queries or complaints, delivery times, pricing and customer service. In addition, the second quadrant of the IPA highlights another set of five criteria that perform well and are essential to the success of the business. These criteria could consist of customer loyalty, employee satisfaction, profitability, market share and innovation

Originality/value

These results provide a basis for solutions and recommendations for managers to refer to and apply consistent practices. Therefore, this study examines the cashless payment in Vietnam. Empirical results offer solutions to financial technology policy, marketing policy, cashless payment services and technology, which can help managers provide online payments using QR codes and contribute to monetary policy solutions.
Study of adoption of artificial intelligence technology-driven natural large language model-based chatbots by firms for customer service interaction
Authors: Bhattacharyya Som Sekhar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to comprehend the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology-driven natural large language model (LLM)-based chatbots by customers.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research study method was conducted. This was to explore managerial perspectives towards consumer centric technology adoption of AI plus LLM-based chatbots. This was specifically for AI-driven natural LLM-based chatbots services. The author conducted conducted in-depth personal interviews with 32 experts of digital content AI + LLM chatbot services. Thematic content analysis was undertaken to analyse the data.

Findings

The advent of natural language processing tools driven by AI technology chatbots has altered human-firm interaction. The research findings indicated that the push-pull-mooring (PPM) factors captured the phenomenon in the most comprehensive way. A total of 15 key factors influencing the adoption of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers during firm customer interaction were identified in this study by the author. The thematic content analysis unraveled insights regarding transformed consumer adoptions towards AI-driven LLM-based chatbots by means of the PPM framework factors.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical research investigation contributed to the literature on the PPM theoretical framework. This was specifically in the context of adoption of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers during firm customer interaction.

Practical implications

The research study insights would help managers to restructure and reconfigure their organizational processes. This would neccessiated a shift in firm-customer interactions as demanded because of the availability of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers.

Originality/value

This research study was based upon the PPM theoretical framework. This study provided a unique analysis of the altered firm customer interaction needs and requirements. This was one of the first studies that applied the framework of PPM theory regarding the adoption of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers.