bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV-1 control in vivo is related to the number but not the fraction of infected cells with viral unspliced RNA
Authors: Capoferri Adam A. , Wiegand Ann , Hong Feiyu , Jacobs Jana L. , Spindler Jonathan , Musick Andrew , Bale Michael J. , Shao Wei , Sobolewski Michele D. , Cillo Anthony R. , Luke Brian T. , Fennessey Christine M. , Gorelick Robert J. , Hoh Rebecca , Halvas Elias K. , Deeks Steven G. , Coffin John M. , Mellors John W. , Kearney Mary F.
Published: July 2024

In the absence of antiretroviral therapy (ART), a subset of individuals, termed HIV controllers, have levels of plasma viremia that are orders of magnitude lower than non-controllers who are at higher risk for HIV disease progression. In addition to having fewer infected cells resulting in fewer cells with HIV RNA, it is possible that lower levels of plasma viremia in controllers is due to a lower fraction of the infected cells having HIV-1 unspliced RNA (HIV usRNA) compared with non-controllers. To directly test this possibility, we used sensitive and quantitative single cell sequencing methods to compare the fraction of infected cells that contain one or more copies of HIV usRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) obtained from controllers and non-controllers. The fraction of infected cells containing HIV usRNA did not differ between the two groups. Rather, the levels of viremia were strongly associated with the total number of infected cells that had HIV usRNA, as reported by others, with controllers having 34-fold fewer infected cells per million PBMC. These results reveal for the first time that viremic control is not associated with a lower fraction of proviruses expressing HIV usRNA, unlike what is reported for elite controllers, but is only related to having fewer infected cells overall, maybe reflecting greater immune clearance of infected cells. Our findings show that proviral silencing is not a key mechanism for viremic control and will help to refine strategies towards achieving HIV remission without ART.
Eco-Microbiology: Discovering Biochemical Enhancers of PET Biodegradation byPiscinibacter sakaiensis
Authors: Piedra Felipe-Andrés , Salazar Miguel A. , Rahman Raayed , Clark Justin C. , Maresso Anthony
Published: July 2024

The scale of plastic pollution boggles the mind. Nearly 400 megatons of virgin plastics are produced annually, with an environmental release rate of 80 percent; and plastic waste including micro- and nanoplastics are associated with a plethora of problems. The naturally evolved abilities of plastic-degrading and consuming microbes offer a starting point for generating sustainable and eco-centric solutions to plastic pollution. Here we developed an iterative discovery procedure coupling faster quasi-high-throughput polyethylene terephthalate (PET) dependent bioactivity screens with longer-term PET biodegradation assays to find small molecule and ionic boosters of PET consumption by the bacteriumPiscinibacter sakaiensis. We discovered multiple hits supporting greater than 2-fold enhancement of PET biodegradation – with hits belonging to a small but heterogeneous set of compounds and mixtures, suggesting upregulation of PET consumption via multiple paths. This work has the potential to advance the creation of a fermentation-based process for solving PET plastic pollution.

Importance

Plastic pollution is an urgent environmental issue. In addition, micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have become an acute source of worry with discoveries of the global distribution and transport of MNPs, their presence within a diversity of organisms including common foodstuffs and human tissues, and their potential association with declining fertility and various disease states. Solutions are needed and the microbial world offers abundant help via naturally evolved biodegraders of plastic waste. We created a non-genetic method to accelerate polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic biodegradation byPiscinibacter sakaiensis, a bacterium that evolved to slowly but completely consume PET. Our method entails a combination of plastic-dependent bioactivity screens and slower biodegradation tests to find extrinsic biochemical stimulators of PET biodegradation. The conditions we found boost PET biodegradation by over two-fold and provide a foundation for further studies to realize a fermentation-based process needed to solve PET plastic pollution.
Odderon contribution in light of the LHC low-
t
data
Authors: Luna E. G. S. , Ryskin M. G. , Khoze V. A.
Published: July 2024

We perform the analysis of elastic scattering pp and p¯p data at low momentum transfer |t|<0.1  GeV2 within large collider energy interval s=50  GeV–13  TeV in order to evaluate quantitatively the possible Odderon contribution. We use the two-channel eikonal model, which naturally accounts for the screening of the Odderon amplitude by C-even (Pomeron) exchanges.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The relationship between love of money, peer influence and personality traits on unethical behaviour of graduate accounting students
Authors: Sabah Welbeck Edem Emerald , Bremang Mabel Ohenewaa
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the impact of love of money, personality traits and peer influence on the ethical behaviour of graduate accounting students at the University of Ghana Business School.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative research approach to sample postgraduate accounting students who completed a self-administered questionnaire on the variables of interest. Using partial least square–structural equation modelling, the hypothesized relationships were examined based on 328 appropriate responses received for the questionnaire.

Findings

The empirical findings suggest that peer influence and personality trait, extraversion positively and significantly influence unethical behaviour, whereas the personality traits, agreeableness and openness to experience have a negative and significant relationship with unethical behaviour. The study, however, does not find support for the hypothesized relationships between the love of money, personality traits (conscientiousness, neuroticism) and unethical behaviour.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature on unethical behaviour, highlighting how decision-making factors such as love of money, peer influence and personality traits, respectively, influence unethical behaviour explained by the self-justification concept under the social cognitive and moral reasoning theory. This could aid these potential managers in seeking higher reviews on ethical dilemmas. It could also aid the professional body and academics in Ghana particularly to intensify ethical education for students of the profession.
University teachers at the crossroads: unpacking their intentions toward ChatGPT's instructional use
Authors: Jaffar Muhammad , Jogezai Nazir Ahmed , Abdul Latiff Abdul Rais , Baloch Fozia Ahmed , Khilji Gulab Khan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to elucidate the intentions of university teachers regarding the utilization of ChatGPT for instructional purposes.

Design/methodology/approach

In this cross-sectional quantitative research, data were collected through an online survey tool from 493 university teachers across Pakistan.

Findings

The findings revealed that positive attitudes and a sense of perceived behavioral control had a positive impact on teachers' adoption of ChatGPT for instructional purposes. Conversely, subjective norms exhibited a significant negative influence. The results underscore that teachers are inclined to embrace ChatGPT for instructional cause due to their recognition of its educational utility. However, it does not appear that their social environment, which includes their coworkers and managers, has a significant impact on how they decide what to do.

Research limitations/implications

The findings bear implications for devising relevant policies that support AI integration in curricula and assessments and teachers’ professional development (PD) programs. There is a need for formulating guidelines at the universities and the policy tiers to make the ChatGPT use more relevant. Future research should strive to generate insights toward AI use in the areas of curriculum, assessment and teachers’ PD.

Originality/value

The study adds to the relatively new literature on the integration of ChatGPT in higher education. This study’s findings contribute to the body of knowledge related to AI’s pedagogical use and set future directions to consider factors influencing meaningful and responsible use of AI in teaching and learning.
Unveiling the path to green innovation: the interplay of green learning orientation, knowledge management capability and manufacturing firm’s capability to orchestrate resources
Authors: Baquero Asier
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Amidst the increasing global emphasis on environmental sustainability, manufacturing firms seek to integrate eco-conscious practices into their innovation processes. This study aims to explore the intricate relationships between green learning orientation (GLO), knowledge management capability (KMC), resource orchestration capability (ROC) and two dimensions of green innovation (GI): green product innovation (GPDI) and green process innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and moderated mediation techniques were used to investigate the relationships among the constructs using data gathered from a survey of 167 manufacturing firms in the United Arab Emirates.

Findings

This study indicates that GLO significantly influences GPDI and green process innovation. Although KMC mediates the relationship between GLO and process innovation, it does not mediate the GPDI relationship. Moreover, ROC significantly strengthens the links between GLO, KMC and both the aspects of GI.

Practical implications

This study emphasises the importance of fostering a green learning culture and integrating it into product development without complex knowledge management systems. This study also highlighted the role of effective resource allocation in maximising environmental learning benefits for sustainable innovation. Organisations can achieve environmental progress by integrating green knowledge into product and process development and by investing in sustainable practices.

Originality/value

By examining various mechanisms involving moderation and mediation, this study has made a notable contribution to advancing the field of knowledge-based view theory. This study also offers enhanced insights into the interconnections among GLO, knowledge management capability, ROC and a firm’s capacity for GI.
A systematic review of paradoxes linked with digital transformation of business
Authors: Singh Nidhi , Vishnani Sushma , Khandelwal Vinay , Sahoo Saumyaranjan , Kumar Satish
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This review study aims to explore the prevalent paradoxes in digital transformation (DTN) of business and provide insights on how businesses can effectively navigate them.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducts a systematic literature review, utilizing findings from a bibliometric analysis. A sample of 229 articles published in top-tier journals, retrieved from the Scopus database, is reviewed to identify nine clusters representing different sectors and paradoxes in DTN.

Findings

The review identifies and summarizes studies addressing the paradoxes that arise during DTN in various sectors. Scholars have analyzed the growing need for digital innovations and the benefits they bring, but this study aggregates high-quality research to address the gap in understanding prevalent paradoxes.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable insights into the paradoxes of DTN and offers guidance to businesses on effectively managing these challenges. It contributes to the existing literature by consolidating and presenting key research findings in this domain.
Workplace romance – ready or not? Complex antecedent conditions supporting (discouraging) concupiscence
Authors: Doll Jessica L. , Woodside Arch George
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study applies complexity theory to propose and empirically examine asymmetric case conditions of antecedents and outcome models of high (low) willingness-to-engage in workplace romance (WEWR). This study focuses on constructing complex antecedent conditions that accurately indicate which employees, and under what conditions, employees are high in WEWR.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an experimental design, 162 employees were assigned one of nine hypothetical vignettes describing different workplace romance contexts including three discrete policies regarding workplace romances (i.e. strictly forbidden, moderate, vs no policy), two motivations for the workplace romance (i.e. job vs love), and two organizational positions of the romance (i.e. hierarchical vs lateral). Participants then reported WEWR responses. Participants also provided demographic, behavioral, and psychological work-related information. This study assesses and supports recipes (i.e. algorithms) of case and organizational structure conditions to identify cases high (low) in WEWR accurately and consistently.

Findings

The results provide clarity of which and when employees are willing vs unwilling to engage in workplace romances – and the contextualized impacts of organizational bans on WEWR. The study’s results are useful for estimating for whom specific workplace policies are effective or not by specific workplace contexts.

Practical implications

In highlighting the role of varying antecedent conditions in predicting WEWR, this research will assist organizations and practitioners in understanding the context in which workplace romances are more likely to occur, providing insight as to when employees are likely to comply with workplace romance policies.

Originality/value

This paper is the first in the workplace romance literature to examine unique combinations of antecedent conditions on WEWR, adding nuance to the current understanding of the behavior.
Effects of salting duration and salt concentration on physicochemical properties and sensory attributes of buffalo meatballs
Authors: Omar Umi Afiqah , Kumar Pavan , Ab Aziz Muhamad Faris , Sazili Awis Qurni , Ismail-Fitry Mohammad Rashedi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the effects of salting duration and salt concentration on the physicochemical, colour, texture and sensory attributes of buffalo meatballs.

Design/methodology/approach

Minced buffalo meat was mixed with salt at 1 or 2% concentration and stored for 0 h, 24 h or 48 h during the preparation of meatballs. The developed meatballs were analysed for moisture content, water holding capacity (WHC), pH, cooking yield, shrinkage, colour, texture profile analysis, gelling properties and sensory attributes.

Findings

The salting durations of 24 and 48 h had significant (p < 0.05) effects on the WHC and colour attributes of the buffalo meatballs. A 2% salt addition in meatballs significantly (p < 0.05) affected pH and cooking yield. Salting for 24 h with 2% salt concentration significantly (p < 0.05) increased the hardness, chewiness and gel strength of the meatballs. Thus, salting for 24 h with a 2% salt concentration improved the physicochemical, textural and sensory attributes of buffalo meatballs.

Practical implications

The study highlighted the importance of salting treatment during the preparation of meat products. For example, salting buffalo meatballs with a 2% salt concentration for 24 h could improve their functional and sensory attributes.

Originality/value

Studies on salting durations at different salt concentrations in buffalo meat are very limited. An optimized combination of salting duration and salt concentration during the preparation of buffalo meatballs could improve the quality attributes and acceptability of these products.
Traces of anti-programs against COVID-19: retailers' responses aimed at mitigating the spread of the virus
Authors: Wulff Gabriella
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to demonstrate how programs of action and anti-programs, concepts developed by Bruno Latour, are of excellent value in interpreting current world developments through a study of the effects and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was inspired by actor-network theory (ANT) and Bruno Latour's inclusion of nonhuman actors. In this case, I have studied how signs and other artifacts leave traces of anti-programs against the COVID-19 pandemic. Observations, in physical stores and online, are presented as the main empirical material used to identify traces of five anti-programs.

Findings

The five types of anti-programs identified were, namely (1) fighting the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic through prompts, (2) verbalizing responsibility, (3) creating a feeling of collectivity, (4) aspiring to heroism and (5) mobilizing support for continued business. The anti-programs were organized via a connection between human and nonhuman actors.

Originality/value

The study illustrates the usefulness of Latour's terminology in exploring contemporary sequences of events by means of using programs of action and anti-programs to study the case of retailers' responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study echoes ANT and Latour's ideas about including nonhuman actors in social studies. Moreover, the study demonstrates how these concepts can be productively introduced into studies of complex phenomena, by discussing the choice of viewpoint, how actors can be conjoined into one entity, the inclusion of nonobservable actors and the co-existence of an actor in both the program of action and the anti-programs.
Will the carbon emissions trading system promote enterprises' willingness to pay for carbon emission reduction?
Authors: Tao Zhibin , Chao Jiaxiao
Published: July 2024

The emissions trading system (ETS) is one of the effective measures for energy conservation and emissions reduction, and the impact of the carbon ETS can be reflected in the willingness of enterprises to pay for carbon emissions reductions. However, there has been little research exploring the relationship between the two. Therefore, this study fills this knowledge gap by comprehensively investigating the influence of China carbon ETS policy (ETSP) on the willingness of enterprises to pay for carbon emissions reductions, and incorporates environmental awareness (EA), green technology innovation (GTI), and climate risk awareness (CRA) into the research model, thus constructing a new theoretical framework. Empirical analysis is conducted using the structural equation modeling method based on survey data from 478 Chinese enterprises. The results indicate that: (1) the China carbon ETSP can promote the willingness of enterprises to pay for carbon emissions reductions. (2) The China carbon ETSP can also promote the EA, GTI, and CRA of enterprises. (3) EA, GTI, and CRA can also promote the willingness of enterprises to pay for carbon emissions reductions. (4) Mediation effect analysis revealed that EA and CRA, respectively, play a mediating role in the influence process of the China carbon ETSP on the willingness of enterprises to pay for carbon emissions reductions. However, GTI does not have a mediating effect in this process. (5) Comparative mediation analysis found no significant differences in the mediating effects of EA and CRA. This study provides constructive practical recommendations for future carbon market mechanism construction and enterprise emission reduction policy formulation. It also offers guidance and reference for the behavioral decision‐making of enterprises in carbon market transactions, and carries practical significance and policy advocacy value.
Treatment of acute kidney injury with continuous renal replacement therapy and cytokine adsorber (CytoSorb®) in critically ill patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Jakopin Eva , Knehtl Maša , Hojs Nina Vodošek , Bevc Sebastjan , Piko Nejc , Hojs Radovan , Ekart Robert
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the 30 and 60‐day survival of critically ill patients with COVID‐19 and AKI.

Methods

Inflammatory and biochemical biomarkers, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and mortality at Day 30 and Day 60 after ICU admission were analyzed. A total of 44 patients treated with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) with cytokine adsorber (CA group) were compared to 58 patients treated with CRRT alone (non‐CA group).

Results

Patients in CA group were younger, had better preserved kidney function prior to the beginning of CRRT and had higher levels of interleukin‐6. There were no statistically significant differences in their comorbidities and in other measured biomarkers between the two groups. The number of patients who died 60 days after ICU admission was statistically significantly higher in non‐CA group (p = 0.029).

Conclusion

Treatment with CRRT and cytokine adsorber may have positively influenced 60‐day survival in our COVID‐19 ICU patients with AKI.
Prevalence of congenital cryptorchidism in China: A nationwide population‐based surveillance study, 2007–2021
Authors: Li Wenyan , Chen Zhiyu , Xu Wenli , Gao Yuyang , Liu Zhen , Li Qi , Dai Li
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite cryptorchidism being a common genital abnormality in male newborns with significant prevalence variations globally, there is a notable scarcity of epidemiological data on this condition in China.

Objective

This study aimed to delineate the prevalence pattern of cryptorchidism in Chinese population over the past 15 years using nationwide surveillance data.

Materials and methods

Data from the China National Population‐based Birth Defects Surveillance System (2007–2021) were analyzed to calculate the prevalence rates of cryptorchidism, stratified by birth year, maternal age, maternal residence, and geographic region. Adjusted prevalence rate ratios were computed using Poisson regression, while trends in prevalence and average annual percent change (AAPC) were assessed using the joinpoint regression model.

Results

During the study period, a total of 1,833 cases of cryptorchidism were identified among 2,565,964 full‐term male births, resulting in prevalence rates of 7.14, 5.60, and 1.54 per 10,000 births for overall, isolated, and associated cryptorchidism, respectively. The overall prevalence increased from 3.86 to 11.20 per 10,000 births, with an AAPC of 7.9% (95% confidence interval: 5.5–11.0). Significant variations were observed across maternal age (< 20 years, 7.62/10,000; 20–24 years, 6.14/10,000; 25–29 years, 6.96/10,000; 30–34 years, 7.48/10,000; ≥35 years, 9.22/10,000), maternal residence (urban vs. rural, 10.99/10,000 vs. 2.86/10,000), and geographic region (eastern, 12.38/10,000; central, 2.36/10,000; western, 2.63/10,000). Approximately one‐third of cryptorchidism cases were bilaterally, while two‐thirds were unilateral. Commonly observed associated abnormalities included congenital hydrocele testis, as well as anomalies in the genital organs, circulatory system, and musculoskeletal system.

Conclusion

Despite lower rates compared to other countries, the increasing trend in prevalence of cryptorchidism necessitates further investigation and intervention.
Testosterone levels increase following bariatric surgery – validation of preceding literature in a large‐scale population analysis
Authors: Pozzi Edoardo , Able Corey A. , Kohn Taylor P. , Salonia Andrea , Ramasamy Ranjith
Published: July 2024

Background

The effects of bariatric surgery on testosterone levels in men with obesity and hypogonadism have not been thoroughly explored yet.

Objectives

To investigate the possible effects of bariatric surgery on T levels in obese hypogonadal men by comparing T levels before and after surgery using a comprehensive claims database.

Materials and methods

The TriNetX US Collaborative Network database was used to identify men ages 18–80 who underwent a bariatric procedure and had a serum T value of < 350 ng/dL prior to surgery. Men who received testosterone therapy before/or after surgery were excluded. We conducted a retrospective self‐matched cohort analysis to examine the difference in serum T levels before and after bariatric surgery. A sub‐analysis was carried out to explore differences between men who reached eugonadal status or maintained low T levels following surgery. Descriptive statistics detailed sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, with continuous and categorical data compared using unpaired t‐tests and chi‐square analysis, respectively. Changes in T levels and body mass index (BMI) before and after surgery were compared using an unpaired t‐test with a < 0.05 set for significance. All analyses were conducted using the TriNetX platform which utilizes both Python and R software.

Results

The study analyzed 69 hypogonadal men who underwent bariatric surgery and had T levels assessed before and after the procedure. The mean (standard deviation) pre‐surgery serum T level was 208 ± 79 ng/dL, which post‐surgery increased to 371 ± 164 ng/dL, marking an average increase of 163 ± 164 ng/dL. Likewise, the mean (standard deviation) body mass index decreased from 42.9 ± 9.0 to 38.8 ± 5.7 kg/m2. Post‐surgery, 45% (31 men) achieved eugonadal status, while 55% (38 men) continued to have low T levels. A comparison between the post‐surgery eugonadal cohort and the persistent low T cohort revealed that the former had higher pre‐surgery serum T levels (235 ± 71 ng/dL vs. 184 ± 80.4 ng/dL, p = 0.007), a higher pre‐surgery body mass index (45.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2 vs. 41.1 ± 11.5 kg/m2, p = 0.041), and a significantly greater reduction in body mass index post‐surgery (7.3 ± 7.2 kg/m2 vs. 2.0 ± 12.8 kg/m2, p = 0.04). Notably, the increase in T was significantly higher in the eugonadal cohort compared to the persistent low testosterone cohort (257 ± 143 ng/dL vs. 95 ± 178 ng/dL, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of bariatric surgery's positive effect on serum T levels in obese men with baseline low T. Almost one out of two men with low T reached normal T levels after bariatric surgery. As the most comprehensive study to date, it validates and substantiates previous work suggesting that weight loss can improve T levels physiologically.
Laparoscopic totally extraperitoneal repair for recurrent inguinal bladder hernia: A case report
Authors: Kitano Yuto , Okamoto Koji , Aoki Tatsuya , Watanabe Kazuhide , Takehara Akira , Shibahara Kazushige
Published: July 2024

We present a case of a recurrent inguinal bladder hernia that was previously unsuccessfully operated on three times and was repaired using totally extraperitoneal repair (TEP). A 79‐year‐old man presented with a right inguinal swelling that had been treated three times on the same side with anterior approaches. Computed tomography confirmed a recurrent inguinal bladder hernia. TEP was performed after identifying the bladder hernia preoperatively, with previous surgeries that used a plug‐and‐patch technique through an anterior approach. The extraperitoneal approach allowed the bladder to be reduced without injury and the hernia to be safely repaired using a 3D Max® Light Mesh. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, with no recurrence after 1 year. TEP facilitates the diagnosis and repair of bladder hernias, emphasizing the importance of preoperative diagnosis and the efficacy of endoscopic procedures in bladder hernia repair, even in recurrent cases.
Safety and graft outcome of right retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy for living donor kidney transplantation: A comparison with left retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy
Authors: Goto Fumika , Sato Yu , Noguchi Hiroshi , Kubo Shinsuke , Kaku Keizo , Okabe Yasuhiro , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The left kidney is often preferred for living donor kidney transplantation because of its anatomical advantages. However, the right kidney may be procured due to donor conditions. Few studies have assessed the safety and graft outcome of right retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (RDN). This study aimed to compare the outcomes between right and left RDN with respect to donor outcome and the graft function of recipients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 230 consecutive living donor kidney transplants performed at our institution between May 2019 and March 2023. We reviewed the outcomes of kidney transplant in the right and left kidneys after RDN.

Results

A total of 230 living donor kidney transplants were performed, with 32 donors receiving right RDN (right RDN group) and 198 donors receiving left RDN (left RDN group). The renal veins and ureters were significantly shorter in the right RDN group than in the left RDN group (both p < .001). Donor operation and warm ischemia time were significantly longer in the right RDN group than in the left RDN group (p = .012 and p < .001, respectively). None of the groups exhibited any cases of delayed graft function owing to donor‐related reasons. Perioperative changes in the estimated glomerular filtration rate of recipients and death‐censored graft survival were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions

In RDN, the outcomes of right donor nephrectomy were comparable to those of left donor nephrectomy in terms of donor safety and recipient renal function.
Chloroplast DNA methylation in the kelp Saccharina latissima is determined by origin and possibly influenced by cultivation
Authors: Scheschonk Lydia , Nilsen Anne M. L. , Bischof Kai , Jueterbock Alexander
Published: July 2024

DNA cytosine methylation is an important epigenetic mechanism in genomic DNA. In most land plants, it is absent in the chloroplast DNA. We detected methylation in the chloroplast DNA of the kelp Saccharina latissima, a non‐model macroalgal species of high ecological and economic importance. Since the functional role of the chloroplast methylome is yet largely unknown, this fundamental research assessed the chloroplast DNA cytosine methylation in wild and laboratory raised kelp from different climatic origins (High‐Arctic at 79° N, and temperate at 54° N), and in laboratory samples from these origins raised at different temperatures (5, 10 and 15°C). Results suggest genome‐wide differences in methylated sites and methylation level between the origins, while rearing temperature had only weak effects on the chloroplast methylome. Our findings point at the importance of matching conditions to origin in restoration and cultivation processes to be valid even on plastid level.
General physicians' perspectives on SGLT2 inhibitors for heart failure
Authors: Teng Lung E. , Lammoza Noor , Aung Ar K. , Thayaparan Archana , Vasudevan Swetha , Edwards Gail , Hormiz Maria , Gibbs Harry , Hopper Ingrid
Published: July 2024

Background

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are novel agents for heart failure (HF) and are now recommended in guidelines. Understanding general physicians' perspectives can help to optimise utilisation of this new medication.

Aim

To understand the clinical concerns and barriers from general physicians about prescribing SGLT2is in a general medicine cohort.

Methods

A questionnaire exploring clinicians' experience, comfort level and barriers to prescribing SGLT2is in patients with HF, incorporating two clinical scenarios, was disseminated to Internal Medicine Society of Australia and New Zealand members over a 2‐month period.

Results

Ninety‐eight participants responded to the questionnaire (10.8% response rate). Most respondents (66.3%) were senior medical staff. Most participants worked in metropolitan settings (64.3%) and in public hospital settings (83.7%). For HF with reduced ejection fraction, 23.5% of participants reported prescribing SGLT2is frequently (defined as prescribing SGLT2is frequently over 75% of occasions). For HF with preserved ejection fraction, 57.1% of participants reported prescribing SGLT2is less than 25% of the time. Almost half of the participants (44%) expressed a high level of familiarity with therapeutic knowledge of SGLT2is, while 47% indicated high familiarity with potential side effects. Patient complexity, cost of medications and discontinuity of care were identified as important barriers. Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis was the side effect that caused the most hesitancy to prescribe SGLT2is in 48% of the respondents.

Conclusion

General physicians in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand are familiar with the therapeutic knowledge and side effects of SGLT2is. Patient complexity, medication cost and discontinuity of care were significant barriers to the use of SGLT2is for HF among general physicians.
Trying to Undo the Colonialities of Arts Education: The Construction of a Workbook as Curriculum‐(Un)Making
Authors: Martins Cat , Guimarães Samuel
Published: July 2024

This text aims to revisit a practice developed in a course on art education within the Ph.D. programme in Arts Education at the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Porto. We approached this space through the construction of a workbook that was practised during classes. The exercises aimed to reflect on the positionality we occupy and on art education as a field of practice/research built on several colonialities. The idea of theory as a practice enacted through questioning, displacements, staying in research and getting to know the archives we inhabit framed the work carried out. The text is an exercise in revisiting the workbook, activating it now through reading and outside the group of participants to which it was made. It is not linear in the sense of recounting the experience; rather, it seeks to blend today's writing with the exercises drawn from that workbook.
Philosophy and biography
Authors: O'Grady Paul
Published: July 2024

Does the biography of a philosopher have any relevance to assessing their philosophy? After considering and rejecting three distinct treatments of this question, a different answer is articulated here. Distinguishing between the content and approach of a philosophical text, this article argues that biography is relevant to assessing the approach of the text in three ways: in its socio‐historical context, its philosophical context, and its personal context in the life of the philosopher. Such a strategy offers new ways of comparing very different texts and assessing them in terms of the aims of the philosopher writing them.
The modelling of flower colour: spectral purity or colour contrast as biologically relevant descriptors of flower colour signals for bees depending upon the perceptual task
Authors: Lunau K. , Dyer A. G.
Published: July 2024

Flower colour is an important mediator of plant–pollinator interactions. While the reflectance of light from the flower surface and background are governed by physical properties, the perceptual interpretation of such information is generated by complex multilayered visual processing. Should quantitative modelling of flower signals strive for repeatable consistency enabled by parameter simplification, or should modelling reflect the dynamic way in which bees are known to process signals? We discuss why colour is an interpretation of spectral information by the brain of an animal. Different species, or individuals within a species, may respond differently to colour signals depending on sensory apparatus and/or individual experience. Humans and bees have different spectral ranges, but colour theory is strongly rooted in human colour perception and many principles of colour vision appear to be common. We discuss bee colour perception based on physiological, neuroanatomical and behavioural evidence to provide a pathway for modelling flower colours. We examine whether flower petals and floral guides as viewed against spectrally different backgrounds should be considered as a simple colour contrast problem or require a more dynamic consideration of how bees make perceptual decisions. We discuss that plants such as deceptive orchids may present signals to exploit bee perception, whilst many plants do provide honest signalling where perceived saturation indicates the probability of collecting nutritional rewards towards the centre of a flower that then facilitates effective pollination.
Meaning in life after cancer: Validation of the sources of meaning card method among participants in cancer rehabilitation
Authors: Sørensen Victoria H. , Andersen Aida H. , Andersen Tonny , Rasmussen Annette , Aagesen Maria , Schnell Tatjana , Pedersen Heidi F. , la Cour Peter , Rottmann Nina
Published: July 2024

Cancer survivors may be struggling to re‐create meaning in life. Addressing their personal sources of meaning can support them in this process. The sources of meaning card method (SoMeCaM) aims to map and explore personal sources of meaning in a 1‐h session. It includes 26 cards, each with a statement on a source of meaning. The purpose of this study was to validate the statements on the sources of meaning cards for use among participants in cancer rehabilitation by examining whether participants attribute the same meaning to the statements as intended. The three step test interview method was used to assess response processes to the sources of meaning cards among 12 participants in a 5‐day cancer rehabilitation program in Denmark. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using framework analysis. Nineteen of the 26 statements were interpreted congruently, that is, in line with the underlying theory, by all participants. Issues of incongruency, ambiguity and confusion were observed in participants' interpretations of the statements on religiosity (n = 6), spirituality (n = 10), and reason (n = 6). Minor issues were observed for the statements on practicality, achievement, knowledge, and attentiveness. In most statements, cancer survivors' interpretation aligned with the underlying theory. Problems were apparent regarding the sources of meaning religiosity, spirituality and reason, and a reconsideration of the wording of the statements is recommended. These problems may be due to cultural and linguistic interpretations rather than to being a cancer survivor. Future studies could focus on these issues in other target populations. Despite these minor issues, the SoMeCaM has proven useful in addressing the important topic of meaning in life in the cancer rehabilitation setting. Clinicians should pay attention to nuances in participants' understanding of the cards.
Revisiting the nexus between development aid, institutions, and growth: A global evidence
Authors: Biçen Ömer Faruk , Çoban Mustafa Necati
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study mainly focuses on the relationship between development aid and growth as well as examines the role of the institutional development levels of countries in this relationship and makes economic inferences.

Methods

The analysis is conducted for 64 countries receiving official development assistance in the 2000–2020 period. To provide robust estimates in these studies, the Driscoll and Kraay estimator is used after fixed and random effects models.

Results

In almost all of the estimated models, a significant relationship between official development assistance per capita and growth is found. Moreover, the models with institutional factors and interaction terms also support the results. According to the robust estimation results, official development assistance per capita positively affects growth.

Conclusion

The results for all countries do not mean that good policies and strong institutions are unnecessary. In contrast, they show that the priority is the sum of aid per capita.
Rehabituating Theology: Habit Forming Theological Education Integrating Contemplative and Embodied Pedagogy
Authors: Callahan Sophie
Published: July 2024

Theological education faces the task of forming leaders and scholars with the capacity for personal and social transformation. This effort requires a deeper understanding of habit formation as both problem and potential. Utilizing the example of how racism functions through embodied habits, this article emphasizes bodily awareness and repeated practice as necessary components for theological formation. In doing so, this approach integrates contemplative and embodied pedagogies and suggests ways to address the research gap in these areas, especially regarding the study and teaching of religion. The tools and resources of somatic abolitionism offer a way to rewire bodily perceptions with theological classrooms.
Enhancing Computational Efficiency in Porous Media Analysis: Integrating Machine Learning With Monte Carlo Ray Tracing
Authors: Tabassum Farhin , Hajimirza Shima
Published: July 2024

Monte Carlo ray tracing (MCRT) is a prevalent and reliable computation method for simulating light-matter interactions in porous media. However, modeling these interactions becomes computationally expensive due to complex structures and enormous variables. Hence, machine learning (ML) models have been utilized to overcome computational burdens. In this study, we investigate two distinct frameworks for characterizing radiative properties in porous media for pack-free and packing-based methods. We employ two different regression tools for each case, namely Gaussian process (GP) regressions for pack-free MCRT and convolutional neural network (CNN) models for pack-based MCRT to predict the radiative properties. Our study highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate regression method based on the physical model, which can lead to significant computational efficiency improvement. Our results show that both models can predict the radiative properties with high accuracy (>90%). Furthermore, we demonstrate that combining MCRT with ML inference not only enhances predictive accuracy but also reduces the computational cost of simulation by more than 96% using the GP model and 99% for the CNN model.
Sound flanking through common low-voltage electrical conduit in multi-family residential buildings
Authors: Kundakcioglu Michael , Doiron Adam , Tinianov Jessica
Published: July 2024

Sound flanking between suites in multi-family residential buildings is a prevalent issue in architectural acoustics and building construction that can decrease the sound insulation performance of suite-demising partitions, compromising acoustical privacy and comfort for residents. In recent times, a specific deficiency regarding the sealing of common low-voltage electrical conduit routed between residential suites has been increasing in frequency in construction of residential buildings, resulting in otherwise appropriately designed suite demising configurations performing poorly in situ, and in some cases, even failing Ontario Building Code requirements for sound insulation between dwelling spaces during site testing. This article presents test data sampled from multiple residential buildings in Ontario, highlighting the extent of this issue and its implications, along with discussion regarding the proactive prevention and post-construction rectification of this issue.
Flanking noise at stacked townhouse entrance stairs
Authors: Clunis Gregory E. , Lalonde Pier-Gui
Published: July 2024

In stacked, wood-framed townhouses, entry stairs for upper units pass through the footprint of lower units. The demising construction between the units, therefore, includes the stairs and floor-ceiling below, as well as the stairwell sidewalls. This irregular construction creates the possibility of significant sound flanking paths between upper and lower units, potentially leading to poor noise isolation performance and occupant dissatisfaction. This paper present practical solutions that have been used to address sound flanking in these areas, including the results of comparative field measurements to evaluate effectiveness. It is concluded that improvements are possible, although wood-framed entry stairs as typically designed are likely to remain an acoustical weakness.
The cost of transparency: Balancing acoustic, financial, and sustainability considerations for glazed office partitions
Authors: Harvey Caroline , Jurdic Vincent , Pollock Chris , Boning Willem
Published: July 2024

Substantial areas of modern offices may be glazed, including office partitions and doors. The desire for transparent connection between adjacent spaces may be driven by a need for natural lighting, the aesthetics of glass, and a desire for inclusivity and openness within organizations. At the same time, organizations require speech privacy for confidential communications, a requirement that relies on good sound isolation performance from glazing and seals. This paper examines the cost of transparency for modern offices, with a focus on balancing the acoustic performance of glazed partitions with spatial planning, post-pandemic occupancy patterns, financial costs, and the carbon cost of extensive glazing. Drawing on recent work to address poor sound isolation in a building with multiple small private offices with glazed partitions onto open office areas, this paper examines the impact of low Noise Isolation Class (NIC) values between adjacent spaces, including voice privacy concerns, acoustic discomfort and enforced changes to occupancy patterns. The design of glazed partitions should address a range of privacy needs while balancing the benefits and costs of a “transparent” workplace in terms of acoustics, construction costs, and embodied carbon.
Extracellular vesicle response following focused ultrasound-mediated blood–brain barrier opening for the detection of Alzheimer’s pathology
Authors: Kline-Schoder Alina , Tsitsos Fotios , Batts Alec , DiBenedetto Melody , Bae Sua , Liu Keyu , Konofagou Elisa
Published: July 2024

Focused ultrasound (FUS), in conjunction with systemically administered microbubbles, has been shown to induce transient and non-invasive blood–brain barrier opening (BBBO). Originally developed as a method of improving targeted drug delivery, FUS-BBBO has recently been proposed as a means of amplifying detection of disease biomarkers in the bloodstream. We hereby describe a method that can detect extracellular vesicles (EVs) after BBB opening in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) mice and patients. BBBO is shown to enhance the release of EVs with disease-specific cargo to the bloodstream when targeting amyloid affected regions and shown to be more sensitive than cell free DNA. In this presentation, we will describe the overall methodology and quantify the concentration and content of EVs isolated from the serum of mice following drug-free FUS-BBBO in both mice and patients. In AD mice and patients, an average EV concentration increase of 164% and 100% 1 h after FUS-BBBO containing both amyloid and tau was, respectively, found compared to 0% under sham conditions and highly correlated with BBBO volume. Whole genome RNA sequencing and mass spectrometry protein identification demonstrated inflammatory and proliferation gene upregulation. These findings highlight the potential of FUS-BBBO to increase EV serum concentration towards early AD detection.