bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycosaminoglycans act as activators of peptidylarginine deiminase 4
Authors: Bereta Grzegorz P. , Bielecka Ewa , Marzec Karolina , Pijanowski Łukasz , Biela Artur , Wilk Piotr , Kamińska Marta , Nowak Jakub , Wątor Elżbieta , Grudnik Przemysław , Kowalczyk Dominik , Kozieł Joanna , Mydel Piotr , Poręba Marcin , Kantyka Tomasz
Published: June 2024

Peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) is a citrullinating enzyme that is gathering increasing attention due to its possible involvement in physiological processes as well as in the pathogenesis of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or thrombosis. PAD4 is activated by calcium ions, but the details of this mechanism are elusive, because in the human body, Ca2+concentrations are too low for full activity. Given that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are also implicated in the development and progression of rheumatoid arthritis, we investigated the activation of PAD4 by GAGs using heparin as a model. We employed activity assays, chromatography techniques, molecular interaction measurements (MST and SPR), FACS, and immunocytochemistry to demonstrate the activation of PAD4 by GAGs. Our data show that PAD4 binds heparin with high affinity and forms high molecular weight complexes with heparin, consistent with heparin-bound tetramer formation. Heparin activates PAD4 by increasing the enzyme’s Ca2+affinity threefold. We also show that the effectiveness of activation with heparin depends on the length of GAG used and its negative charge. Direct measurement of heparin binding to PAD4 confirmed tight interaction with nanomolar affinity. Mutagenesis of regions likely responsible for heparin binding showed that dimerization of PAD4 is necessary for efficient activation, but the distinct binding site was not determined as interaction with heparin likely occurs over larger surface of PAD4. Furthermore, we show that other GAG family members, including heparan and chondroitin sulphates, are also able to activate PAD4. We also found that disturbed production of GAGs by CHO cells results in reduced PAD4 binding efficiency. Finally, heparin induces NETosis in hPMNs in concentration-dependent manner, as measured by the release of DNA and citrullination of histone H3. In summary, we identify the first natural coactivator of PAD4, which is present in all individuals, potentially explaining the regulation of PAD4 activity in physiological conditions, and providing new insight into the development of rheumatoid arthritis and other PAD4-related diseases.
One N-glycan regulates natural killer cell antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and modulates Fc γ receptor IIIa / CD16a structure
Authors: Kremer Paul G. , Lampros Elizabeth A. , Blocker Allison M. , Barb Adam W.
Published: June 2024

Both endogenous antibodies and a subset of antibody therapeutics engage Fc gamma receptor (FcγR)IIIa / CD16a to stimulate a protective immune response. Increasing the FcγRIIIa/IgG1 interaction improves the immune response and thus represents a strategy to improve therapeutic efficacy. FcγRIIIa is a heavily glycosylated receptor and glycan composition affects antibody-binding affinity. Though our laboratory previously demonstrated that natural killer (NK) cell N-glycan composition affected the potency of one key protective mechanism, antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), it was unclear if this effect was due to FcγRIIIa glycosylation. Furthermore, the structural mechanism linking glycan composition to affinity and cellular activation remained undescribed. To define the role of individual amino acid and N-glycan residues we measured affinity using multiple FcγRIIIa glycoforms. We observed stepwise affinity increases with each glycan truncation step with the most severely truncated glycoform displaying the highest affinity. Removing the N162 glycan demonstrated its predominant role in regulating antibody-binding affinity, in contrast to four other FcγRIIIa N-glycans. We next evaluated the impact of the N162 glycan on NK cell ADCC. NK cells expressing the FcγRIIIa V158 allotype exhibited increased ADCC following kifunensine treatment to limit N-glycan processing. Notably, an increase was not observed with cells expressing the FcγRIIIa V158 S164A variant that lacks N162 glycosylation, indicating the N162 glycan is required for increased NK cell ADCC. To gain structural insight into the mechanisms of N162 regulation, we applied a novel protein isotope labeling approach in combination with solution NMR spectroscopy. FG loop residues proximal to the N162 glycosylation site showed large chemical shift perturbations following glycan truncation. These data support a model for the regulation of FcγRIIIa affinity and NK cell ADCC whereby composition of the N162 glycan stabilizes the FG loop and thus the antibody-binding site.
White adipose tissue remodeling in Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) with white-nose syndrome
Authors: Pannkuk Evan L. , Moore Marianne S. , Bansal Shivani , Kumar Kamendra , Suman Shubhankar , Howell Daryl , Kath Joseph A. , Kurta Allen , Reeder DeeAnn M. , Field Kenneth A.
Published: June 2024

White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal wildlife disease of bats that has caused precipitous declines in certain Nearctic bat species. A key driver of mortality is premature exhaustion of fat reserves, primarily white adipose tissue (WAT), that bats rely on to meet their metabolic needs during winter. However, the pathophysiological and metabolic effects of WNS have remained ill-defined. To elucidate metabolic mechanisms associated with WNS mortality, we infected a WNS susceptible species, the Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus), withPseudogymnoascus destructans(Pd) and collected WAT biopsies for histology and targeted lipidomics. These results were compared to the WNS-resistant Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus). A similar distribution in broad lipid class was observed in both species, with ∼60% of total WAT consisting of triacylglycerides (TAGs). We found several baseline differences in WAT chemical composition between species.M. lucifugusWAT had significantly higher levels of measured TAGs (∼30%). Higher lipid levels inE. fuscusWAT were primarily sphingomyelins and glycerophosphoethanolamines (PEs), along with glycerophospholipids (GPs) dominated by unsaturated or monounsaturated moieties and n-6 (18:2, 20:2, 20:3, 20:4) fatty acids. These differences betweenM. lucifugusandE. fuscusmay indicate dietary differences that lead to differential “fuel” reserves that are available during torpor. FollowingPd-infection, we found that perturbation to WAT reserves occurs inM. lucifugus, but not in the resistantE. fuscus. A total of 36 GPs (primarily PEs) were higher inPd-infectedM. lucifugus, indicating perturbation to the WAT structural component. In addition to changes in lipid chemistry, smaller adipocyte sizes and increased extracellular matrix deposition was observed inPd-infectedM. lucifugus. This is the first study to describe WAT lipidomic composition of bats with different susceptibilities to WNS and highlights that recovery from WNS may require repair from adipose remodeling in addition to replenishing depot fat during spring emergence.
Differential Effects of Haloperidol on Neural Oscillations During Wakefulness and Sleep
Authors: Gallo Diego , Cavelli Matias , Castro-Zaballa Santiago , Castro-Nin Juan Pedro , Pascovich Claudia , Torterolo Pablo , González Joaquín
Published: June 2024

The electrical activity of the brain, characterized by its frequency components, reflects a complex interplay between periodic (oscillatory) and aperiodic components. These components are associated with various neurophysiological processes, such as the excitation-inhibition balance (aperiodic activity) or interregional communication (oscillatory activity). However, we do not fully understand whether these components are truly independent or if different neuromodulators modulate them in different ways. The dopaminergic system has a critical role for cognition and motivation, being a potential modulator of these power spectrum components. To improve our understanding of these questions, we investigated the differential effects of this system on these components using electrocorticogram recordings in cats, which show clear oscillations and aperiodic 1/f activity. Specifically, we focused on the effects of haloperidol (a D2 receptor antagonist) on oscillatory and aperiodic dynamics during wakefulness and sleep. By parameterizing the power spectrum into these two components, our findings reveal a state-dependent modulation of oscillatory activity by the D2 receptor across the brain. Surprisingly, aperiodic activity was not significantly affected and exhibited inconsistent changes across the brain. This suggests a nuanced interplay between neuromodulation and the distinct components of brain oscillations, providing insights into the selective regulation of oscillatory dynamics in awake states.
The Role of Alpha-Synuclein in Synucleinopathy: Impact on Lipid Regulation at Mitochondria–ER Membranes
Authors: Barbuti Peter A. , Guardia-Laguarta Cristina , Yun Taekyung , Chatila Zena K. , Flowers Xena. , Santos Bruno FR. , Larsen Simone B. , Hattori Nobutaka , Bradshaw Elizabeth , Dettmer Ulf , Fanning Saranna , Vilas Manon , Reddy Hasini , Teich Andrew F. , Krüger Rejko , Area-Gomez Estela , Przedborski Serge
Published: June 2024

The protein alpha-synuclein (αSyn) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of synucleinopathy, which includes Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy, and mounting evidence suggests that lipid dyshomeostasis is a critical phenotype in these neurodegenerative conditions. Previously, we identified that αSyn localizes to mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAMs), temporary functional domains containing proteins that regulate lipid metabolism, including the de novo synthesis of phosphatidylserine. In the present study, we have analyzed the lipid composition of postmortem human samples, focusing on the substantia nigra pars compacta of Parkinson’s disease and controls, as well as three less affected brain regions of Parkinson’s donors. To further assess synucleinopathy-related lipidome alterations, similar analyses were performed on the striatum of multiple system atrophy cases. Our data show region-and disease-specific changes in the levels of lipid species. Specifically, our data revealed alterations in the levels of specific phosphatidylserine species in brain areas most affected in Parkinson’s disease. Some of these alterations, albeit to a lesser degree, are also observed multiples system atrophy. Using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons, we show that αSyn contributes to regulating phosphatidylserine metabolism at MAM domains, and that αSyn dosage parallels the perturbation in phosphatidylserine levels. Our results support the notion that αSyn pathophysiology is linked to the dysregulation of lipid homeostasis, which may contribute to the vulnerability of specific brain regions in synucleinopathy. These findings have significant therapeutic implications.

Significance Statement

Synucleinopathy is a complex group of neurodegenerative disorders whose causes and underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this work, we examined synucleinopathy postmortem brain samples and patient-derived neuron models and identified the functional impairment of the mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane (MAM) domain, which facilitates lipid regulation. The protein alpha-synuclein is associated with synucleinopathy and increasing levels result in the mislocalization of this protein and the disruption of MAM domains, which, in turn, results in lipid and membrane composition alterations. Specifically, we report that increased alpha-synuclein expression impairs the regulation of phosphatidylserine synthase 2 and the levels of phosphatidylserine in cellular membranes from affected cells. Our study offers mechanistic insight tying alpha-synuclein pathology and lipid dysregulation as seminal factors in synucleinopathy, which may have pathogenic and therapeutic implications.
Next-to-Next-to-Leading Order QCD Corrections to Semi-Inclusive Deep-Inelastic Scattering
Authors: Goyal Saurav , Moch Sven-Olaf , Pathak Vaibhav , Rana Narayan , Ravindran V.
Published: June 2024

We present the first results for the next-to-next-to leading order (NNLO) corrections to the semi-inclusive deep-inelastic scattering process in perturbative quantum chromodynamics. We consider the quark initiated flavor nonsinglet process and obtain the complete contributions analytically at leading color. All relevant virtual and real emission Feynman diagrams have been computed using integration-by-parts reduction to master integrals and two approaches for their subsequent evaluation (parametric phase-space integration and method of differential equations). The numerical analysis demonstrates the significance of the NNLO corrections and their great impact on the reduction of the residual scale dependence.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Information Theory of Chemotactic Agents Using Both Spatial and Temporal Gradient Sensing
Authors: Rode Julian , Novak Maja , Friedrich Benjamin M.
Published: June 2024

Biological cells and small organisms navigate in concentration fields of signaling molecules using two fundamental gradient-sensing strategies: spatial comparison of concentrations measured at different positions on their surface and temporal comparison of concentrations measured at different locations visited along their motion path. It is believed that size and speed dictate which gradient-sensing strategy cells choose, yet this has never been formally proven. Using information theory, we investigate the optimal gradient-sensing mechanism for an ideal chemotactic agent that combines spatial and temporal comparisons. We account for the physical limits of chemosensation: molecule counting noise at physiological concentrations and motility noise inevitable at the microscale. Our simulation data collapse onto an empirical power law that predicts an optimal weighting of information as a function of motility and sensing noise, demonstrating how spatial comparison becomes more beneficial for agents that are large, slow, and less persistent. This refines and quantifies the previous heuristic notion. Our idealized model assuming unlimited information processing capabilities serves as a benchmark for the chemotaxis of biological cells.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comorbid autism spectrum disorder and borderline personality disorder: case conceptualization and treatment implications
Authors: Allman Madeleine , Kerr Sophie , Roldan Carmelo Ismael , Harris Geri Maria , Harris Gerald E.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are complex disorders characterized by pervasive symptoms of rigidity, emotion dysregulation and social cognitive difficulties. Comorbid ASD and BPD are recognized emerging clinical problem that may be challenging to treat.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present a case study of a young person in the authors’ assessment clinic diagnosed with BPD and ASD who had received standard dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) with modest effects. The authors provide ASD-informed recommendations for continued DBT treatment.

Findings

The de-identified patient described in this case report met full criteria for ASD and BPD. The patient’s cognitive, behavioral, social and personality functioning are described in detail.

Practical implications

Other practitioners seeking to treat this complex comorbidity may make use of the authors’ treatment recommendations for their patients. The authors underscore the importance of individualized treatment planning and hope the authors’ exemplar will be useful to others.

Originality/value

Several evidence-based treatments exist for ASD and BPD symptom reduction. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no current treatments exist for comorbid ASD and BPD to target emotion dysregulation in individuals with restricted and repetitive interests and behaviors and disturbances in social and communication domains.
The association between institutional monitoring, political connections and audit report lag: evidence from the Malaysian capital market
Authors: Qasem Ameen
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the association between institutional investors’ ownership (IOW), politically connected firms (POCF) and audit report lag (AUDRL).

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a feasible generalised least squares (FGLS) model for panel data to examine the association between IOW, POCF and AUDRL for Malaysian publicly listed companies.

Findings

The findings reveal a statistically significant negative relationship between IOW and AUDRL, with this negative relationship being more pronounced amongst POCF. Additionally, the results demonstrate that the relationship between IOW and AUDRL varies depending on the domicile of IIs (local vs. foreign). Specifically, local institutional investors exhibit a negative and statistically significant relationship with AUDRL, whilst foreign institutional investors show a positive and statistically significant relationship with AUDRL.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide a new understanding of auditor responses to institutional investor monitoring and political connections (PCs) in an emerging economy.
Unmasking the dark triad: exploring its relationship with attitudes toward intimate partner violence
Authors: Waite Charlie , Mooney Robyn
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Although it is a relatively recent conceptualization of malevolent personality, the dark triad (DT) has been widely researched and shown to be responsible for increases in physical violence, controlling behavior, short-term mating preferences and poor relationship quality. This study aims to investigate whether DT traits predict acceptance toward intimate partner violence (IPV) in the general population, addressing a gap in the literature regarding predictors of harmful attitudes toward romantic relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 150 adults aged 18–74 (76% women) completed two self-report questionnaires: the short DT and the IPV attitude scale-revised.

Findings

A series of hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted, with gender as predictor in the first models and DT traits added as predictors in second models. The results showed that male participants were more accepting of IPV than female participants. Over and above the contribution of gender, psychopathy and Machiavellianism positively predicted overall IPV acceptance, but narcissism did not. Psychopathy and Machiavellianism positively predicted acceptance of psychological abuse, and psychopathy positively predicted acceptance of controlling behaviors. Narcissism did not predict any facet of IPV acceptance.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, as the first study to explore the roles of DT traits in acceptance of IPV behaviors, the results contribute to the understanding of how these traits may predispose individuals to harmful intimate partner behaviors. These findings can inform IPV prevention efforts to aid in the early identification of individuals who hold maladaptive beliefs surrounding romantic relationships.
Mapping the landscape of digital cultural heritage research: a quantitative and visual bibliometric study
Authors: Huang Yong , He Xiangfeng , Lian Zhiguang , Yang Zhirong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study explores the deep integration of digital technology and cultural heritage to promote the preservation and inheritance of cultural heritage. Focusing on Digital Cultural Heritage (DCH), this research investigates its key role in activating theoretical research and practical applications in cultural heritage.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted an extensive bibliometric analysis utilizing VOSviewer and Bibliometrix visualization software to meticulously examine DCH research. Insights were gleaned from a dataset comprising 2,997 DCH-related publications harvested from the Web of Science database.

Findings

The bibliometric analysis reveals several notable findings: driven by active contributions from Italy, China, Spain, and the USA, the number of DCH publications shows a linear upward trend. Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche in Italy emerges as a prominent institution, while the Journal of Cultural Heritage stands out as the most influential journal in the DCH field. Scholars such as Remondino, Guidi, Barazzetti, and Carrozzino have significantly impacted DCH research. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis of keyword co-occurrence networks elucidates six major research trajectories in the DCH field, covering various aspects from cultural heritage digitization to digital humanities.

Practical implications

The study emphasizes the value of global knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative technology applications, and digital content provision practices in advancing DCH research.

Originality/value

By delving into the multifaceted landscape of DCH research, this study brings forth original insights into the escalating trends, pivotal contributors, and burgeoning research directions.
Herbarium and field studies of nickel hyperaccumulator plants from ultramafic soils in Guatemala
Authors: Disinger Haley P. , Navarrete Gutiérrez Dulce Montserrat , Díaz Reyes Alicia Maríasol , Rodas Duarte Rosario , Quezada Maura L. , van der Ent Antony , Baker Alan J. M. , Echevarria Guillaume , Pollard A. Joseph
Published: June 2024

Until 2019, there were no published reports of trace element hyperaccumulation in the plants of Central America or Mexico. Recent reports, based mostly on measurement of herbarium specimens using x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy, have begun to identify hyperaccumulators of nickel (Ni) in this region. The most extensive deposits of Ni‐rich ultramafic rocks and soils in Central America occur along the Polochic‐Motagua fault system in eastern Guatemala. This study focused on discovery and characterization of new hyperaccumulators in Guatemala, starting with surveys of herbarium specimens, followed by field studies to understand the ultramafic soils of the region and the ecology of hyperaccumulators that occur there. Initial XRF screening at the Missouri Botanical Garden Herbarium, along with two herbaria in Guatemala, identified four previously unreported Ni hyperaccumulators—Arachnothryx linguiformis, Arachnothryx buddleioides, Chionanthus panamensis, and Orthion guatemalense. Field studies in Guatemala characterized the communities in which these species occur, some of which include multiple hyperaccumulator species growing in close proximity. In two taxa that showed phenotypic variation in foliar Ni concentration, there was no statistically significant correlation between Ni concentrations in leaves and either the total or DTPA‐extractable Ni in soils, suggesting that other genetic or environmental variables may influence hyperaccumulation.
Meat production and zoonotic disease outbreaks in Asia
Authors: Koren Ore , Steinberg Jessica , Hagar Amit
Published: June 2024

Is there a link between meat production and infectious diseases? Researchers, policymakers and pundits argue that the growth of demand for meat in Asia can increase the risk of zoonotic diseases, pathogens that originate in animals and can be transmitted to humans. Using original data on zoonotic disease outbreaks in 22 Asian countries between 1996 and 2019, this study examines the impact of beef, chicken and pork production on zoonotic outbreaks—focussing on all diseases and disaggregated subcategories. Because such outbreaks lead to culling animals, data on inorganic chemical fertiliser use are used to identify the plausibly exogenous relationship flowing from meat production to outbreaks. Results indicate that in these countries, intensive meat production may have contributed to a 16%–300% rise (for a one‐million‐tonne increase in output) in zoonotic outbreak incidence. Findings also suggest this relationship is primarily driven by flu pathogens' higher sensitivity to meat production, with a one‐million‐tonne increase in output being associated with a 48%–530% rise in the number of predicted flu outbreaks. These results are consistent across numerous sensitivity analyses accounting for modelling, operationalisation, and data selection choices.
Scandalisation, gender and space in ancient Rome: The case of Cicero and Clodia
Authors: Moser Muriel
Published: June 2024

This article analyses the public attack on Clodia Metelli, a Roman aristocratic woman, by the orator Marcus Tullius Cicero in a trial in 56 BCE. Drawing on modern scandal theory, this article analyses how Cicero uses scandal dynamics to turn Clodia, the witness in the case, into the culprit. The article discusses, first, the dynamics of his scandalisation of Clodia and the importance of Roman gender norms and their spatial expressions in his attack and, second, Cicero's role as scandaliser and norm‐setter.
A review of the contributions of forensic archaeology and anthropology to the process of disaster victim identification
Authors: Hanson Ian , Fenn James
Published: June 2024

Forensic archaeology and anthropology have developed significantly over past decades and now provide considerable assistance to the investigation process of disaster victim recovery and identification. In what are often chaotic death and crime scenes, the formal process of utilizing archaeological methods can bring control, order, and ensure systematic search. Procedures assist in defining scene extent, locating victims and evidence, rule out areas for consideration, and provide standardized recording and quality assurance through dedicated use of standardized forms (pro formas). Combined archaeological and anthropological search methods maximize opportunities to recovery the missing through identifying remains, mapping distributions, and providing accounting of victims at the scene. Anthropological assistance in examinations contributes to individual assessment, resolving commingling and fragmentation issues, and utilizing DNA sampling methods and matching data to reassociate and account for the missing. Utilization of archaeology, anthropology, and DNA matching data provides scope to review crime scene recovery and determine requirements and potential for further survey and retrieval. Adopting the most suitable methods for a particular context can maximize recovery, efficiency, and resource use. Case studies demonstrate the utility of archaeological methods in a range of scenarios. They exemplify the success of multidisciplinary analysis in providing evidence of the sequence of events, the timing of events, the impact of taphonomic processes, the location and accounting of victims, and the demonstration of systematic scene search. The considerations provided in this article, utilizing archaeology and anthropology processes, may assist investigators in planning and implementing responses to mass fatalities.
Pain in people seeking and receiving opioid agonist treatment: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of prevalence and correlates
Authors: Yang Jie , Jung Monica , Picco Louisa , Grist Elizabeth , Lloyd‐Jones Martyn , Giummarra Melita , Nielsen Suzanne
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

People with opioid use disorder (OUD) commonly experience pain including chronic pain. Despite the high prevalence, few studies have systematically examined the prevalence and correlates of pain among people seeking or receiving opioid agonist treatment (OAT) for OUD. This review aimed to determine the prevalence of pain in this population globally, and estimate the association between chronic pain and other demographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods

Electronic searches were conducted in three databases (Medline, Embase and PsycINFO) from the inception until October 2022. Eligible studies reported prevalence rates of current and/or chronic pain. Meta‐analyses examining the main prevalence estimates were conducted by Stata SE 18.0, and comorbid clinical conditions were analysed by Review Manager 5.4.

Results

Fifty‐six studies (n participants = 35 267) from sixty‐seven publications were included. Prevalence estimates of current and chronic pain were reported in 27 (48.2%) and 40 studies (71.4%), respectively. Most studies were conducted in North America (71.4%, n = 40) and used cross‐sectional designs (64.3%, n = 36). Meta‐analyses revealed a pooled prevalence of 60.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 52.0–68.0) for current pain and 44.0% [95% CI: 40.0–49.0] for chronic pain. Chronic pain was positively associated with older age (mean deviation of mean age: 2.39 years, 95% CI: 1.40–3.37; I2 = 43%), unemployment (odds ratio [OR] = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.42–0.76; I2 = 78%), more severe mental health symptoms (e.g. more severe depression (standardised mean difference [SMD] of mean scores: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.20–0.70; I2 = 48%) and anxiety symptoms (SMD: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.17–0.88; I2 = 67%), and hepatitis C (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.03–1.94; I2 = 0%). No association was observed between chronic pain and the onset and type of OAT, geographic location, study design, survey year, participant age or use of specific pain assessment tools.

Conclusions

There appears to be a high prevalence of pain among people seeking or receiving opioid agonist treatment for opioid use disorder compared with the general population, with positive associations for older age, unemployment, hepatitis C and the severity of some mental health symptoms.
The New Politics of Inflation and Economic Disruption: Unlearned Lessons from the 1980s and 1990s in Australia
Authors: Dow Geoff , Boreham Paul
Published: June 2024

In the 1980s, debate over inflation and unemployment in Australia promised to lead to new institutional priorities based on revised, corporatist principles. However, labour's functional capacity to influence policy, particularly anti‐inflation policy, evaporated during the neoliberal era. Recently, new contradictions in the economy have emerged (as well as a new mode of accumulation, with altered production demands and political pressures), exposing lessons that remain unlearned from the prior stagflation years and permanent problems and incapacities for the contemporary polity.
Holter study of heart rate variability in children and adolescents with long QT syndrome
Authors: Lundström Anna , Eliasson Håkan , Karlsson Marcus , Wiklund Urban , Rydberg Annika
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to retrospectively assess cardiac autonomic activity in children with LQTS, considering genotype, symptoms, sex, age, and beta‐blocker therapy (BB) and compare it to healthy controls.

Methods

Heart rate variability (HRV), using power spectrum analysis, was analyzed in 575 Holter recordings from 116 children with LQTS and in 69 healthy children. The data were categorized into four age‐groups and four heart rate (HR) ranges.

Results

In LQT1 and LQT2, increasing HR corresponded to significantly lower low (LF) and high frequency (HF) compared to controls. Total power (PTOT) was lower in all LQT1 age‐groups compared to controls at HR 120–140 bpm (1–15 years: p < .01; 15–18 years: p = .03). At HR 80–100, LQT1 patients aged 1–10 years had lower HF than LQT2 patients (1–5 years: p = .05; 5–10 years: p = .02), and LQT2 patients aged 15–18 years had lower HF than LQT1 patients (p < .01). Symptomatic patients aged 10–15 years had lower PTOT at HR 100–120 bpm than asymptomatic patients (p = .04). LQT1 girls aged 10–15 and 15–18 years had a lower PTOT (10–15 years: p = .04; 15–18 years: p = .02) than boys.

Conclusion

This study shows a correlation between HR and changes in HRV parameters. At higher HRs, LQTS patients generally had lower HRV values than controls, suggesting an abnormal autonomic response. These results may strengthen the link between physical activity and arrhythmias in LQTS.
Effectiveness of chatbots in increasing uptake, intention, and attitudes related to any type of vaccination: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chan Paul Shing‐fong , Fang Yuan , Cheung Doug H. , Zhang Qingpeng , Sun Fenghua , Mo Phoenix K. H. , Wang Zixin
Published: June 2024

This systematic review and meta‐analysis analyzed and summarized the growing literature on the effectiveness of chatbot‐delivered interventions in increasing uptake, intention, and attitudes related to any type of vaccination. We identified randomized controlled studies (RCTs), quasi‐experimental studies, and non‐experimental studies from the following platforms: PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Global Health, APA PsycInfo, and EMBASE databases. A total of 12 eligible studies published from 2019 to 2023 were analyzed and summarized. In particular, one RCT showed that a chatbot‐delivered tailored intervention was more effective than a chatbot‐delivered non‐tailored intervention in promoting seasonal influenza vaccine uptake among older adults (50.5% versus 35.3%, p = 0.002). Six RCTs were included in the meta‐analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of chatbot interventions to improve vaccination attitudes and intentions. The pooled standard mean difference (SMD) of overall attitude change was 0.34 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.13, 0.55, p = 0.001). We found a non‐significant trivial effect of chatbot interventions on improving intentions of vaccination (SMD: 0.11, 95% CI: −0.13, 0.34, p = 0.38). However, further evidence is needed to draw a more precise conclusion. Additionally, study participants reported high satisfaction levels of using the chatbot and were likely to recommend it to others. The development of chatbots is still nascent and rooms for improvement exist.
Perceived organizational justice in family SMEs: The challenge of HRM consistency
Authors: Kroon Brigitte , Kramer Astrid , Kox Joyce
Published: June 2024

Liabilities of smallness, family relations, leadership style, and preferences are all reasons why owners of small and medium‐sized family enterprises (family SMEs) apply procedures to manage employees inconsistently. For family and non‐family employees of family SMEs, inconsistencies in human resource management (HRM) may be a source of frustration that hampers their performance and wellbeing. Using a sample of 713 respondents in 116 family SMEs, we examined how HRM consistency as a whole, and as three HRM bundles (ability, motivation, and opportunity) could enhance the perceived organizational justice of employees in family SMEs, and whether this differs for family and non‐family employees. We indeed found that HRM consistency is a condition for perceived organizational justice of employees and that this effect was more pronounced for non‐family employees than for family employees. We explain this difference by the distinct environment where the fairness heuristics of employees developed. Where non‐family employees develop their fairness heuristics only in the business sphere, family employees start to develop their fairness heuristics earlier on in the family sphere. We also found evidence that inconsistencies in the motivation‐enhancing HRM bundle were most susceptible to negative perceptions of organizational justice.
Automation of green roof plant cover measurements using machine learning and a comparison of digital and thermal imaging techniques
Authors: Cao Ronglan , MacIvor J. Scott
Published: June 2024

Aims

Post‐analyses of digital red, green, blue (RGB) and thermal images have become increasingly popular as modern approaches to plant cover analysis. Image analyses are often coupled with semi‐automated or automated workflows to reduce the amount of human labor input compared with traditional manual procedures. This study aims to evaluate and compare different image segmentation methods for plant cover analysis using digital RGB and thermal images, focusing on the effectiveness of semi‐automated and manual segmentation techniques in monitoring plant cover on green roofs.

Location

An Extensive green roof in the City of Toronto.

Methods

We surveyed the plant cover of an extensive green roof using digital and thermal imagery. The plant cover values were obtained using three methods: traditional manual segmentation based on a visual examination (MS), ImageJ Color Threshold (CT) and Trainable Weka Segmentation (TWS), all performed within FIJI (a distribution of ImageJ). Manual segmentation based on visual examination was used as a reference standard.

Results

Significant correlation was found between the cover estimation using the CT and TWS methods relative to MS, and between cover estimation using the thermal image and the RGB image. TWS overestimated plant cover on thermal images while producing an underestimation on RGB images. CT demonstrated a performance closer to MS than TWS, indicating that manually customized methods produced results more aligned with MS. The estimated cover values by MS were not significantly affected by the image type (digital RGB or thermal).

Conclusions

Results suggest that RGB and thermal imaging techniques may provide complementary results and reveal unique information regarding the functioning of green roofs. The accuracy of supervised machine‐learning methods could be enhanced with site‐specific data to provide a more accurate and efficient estimation of plant cover, which might be beneficial for long‐term studies on green roofs and ecological sites in remote locations.
Student–teacher relationships and sense of academic futility: Longitudinal associations among early adolescents of immigrant and non‐immigrant background
Authors: Bobba Beatrice , Yanagida Takuya , Wiertsema Maria , Miconi Diana , Oyekola Adebunmi , Chukwueke Ifunanya , Özdemir Sevgi Bayram
Published: June 2024

Sense of academic futility entails feelings of having no control over ones' educational success. Although mounting evidence points to its negative consequences for students' educational outcomes, less is known about its socio‐contextual antecedents. Relatedly, the current study explored how fair and supportive relationships with teachers are related to the sense of academic futility and if class belonging mediates this link in a sample of adolescents with immigrant and non‐immigrant backgrounds. A total of 1065 seventh‐grade students (Mage = 13.12; SD = 0.42; 45% girls) from 55 classrooms completed questionnaires at two time points 1 year apart. Results of multilevel analyses indicated that fair and supportive relationships with teachers contributed to decreases in sense of academic futility at the individual but not at the classroom level. No mediation or moderation effects emerged. These findings highlight the crucial role of democratic student–teacher relationships in supporting the positive school adjustment of all students in increasingly multicultural societies.
Determining the number of attributes in the GDINA model
Authors: Wang Juntao , Duan Jiangtao
Published: June 2024

Exploratory cognitive diagnosis models have been widely used in psychology, education and other fields. This paper focuses on determining the number of attributes in a widely used cognitive diagnosis model, the GDINA model. Under some conditions of cognitive diagnosis models, we prove that there exists a special structure for the covariance matrix of observed data. Due to the special structure of the covariance matrix, an estimator based on eigen‐decomposition is proposed for the number of attributes for the GDINA model. The performance of the proposed estimator is verified by simulation studies. Finally, the proposed estimator is applied to two real data sets Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English (ECPE) and Big Five Personality (BFP).
Efficacy in diet‐induced obese mice of the hepatotropic, peripheral cannabinoid 1 receptor inverse agonist TM38837
Authors: Cooper Martin E. , Nørregaard Pia K. , Högberg Thomas , Andersson Gunnar , Receveur Jean‐Marie , Linget Jean‐Michel , Elling Christian E.
Published: June 2024

Background and Purpose

The cannabinoid CB1 receptor has a well‐established role in appetite regulation. Drugs antagonizing central CB1 receptors, most notably rimonabant, induced weight loss and improved the metabolic profile in obese individuals but were discontinued due to psychiatric side effects. However, metabolic benefits were only partially attributable to weight loss, implying a role for peripheral receptors, and peripherally restricted CB1 receptor antagonists have since been of interest. Herein, we describe the evaluation of the peripherally restricted potent CB1 receptor inverse agonists TM38837 and TM39875, with acidic functionality, which were administered daily to diet‐induced obese (DIO) mice for 5 weeks at doses for which CNS‐mediated effects were minimal.

Experimental Approach

Compounds were tested in dose–response in acute studies to compare efficacy (gastric transport) and extent of CNS exposure (hypothermia and satiety sequence) to demonstrate peripheral restriction and select doses for the subsequent chronic DIO study.

Key Results

TM38837 but not TM39875 produced considerable (26%) weight loss, linked to a sustained reduction in food intake, together with improvements in plasma markers of inflammation and glucose homeostasis. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated high plasma and low brain levels for both compounds with high liver levels for TM38837 (but not TM39875) due to hepatic uptake.

Conclusion and Implications

Weight loss and metabolic benefits of TM38837 are likely not CNS‐mediated but could be linked to enhanced liver exposure, which implicates intracellular CB1 receptors in hepatocytes as a possible driver of obesity and co‐morbidities.
SYT4 binds to SNAP25 to facilitate exosomal secretion and prostate cancer enzalutamide resistance
Authors: Huang Budeng , Deng Xiyue , Zhou Guochao , Li Keqiang , Feng Yuankang , Xie Guoqing , Liu Ruoyang , Song Liang , Huang Zhenlin , Jia Zhankui
Published: June 2024

Prostate carcinoma represents a predominant malignancy affecting the male population, with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) serving as a critical therapeutic modality for advanced disease states, but it often leads to the development of resistance. Enzalutamide (Enz), a second‐generation antiandrogen drug, initially offers substantial therapeutic benefit, but its efficacy wanes as drug resistance ensues. In this study, we found that synaptotagmin 4 (SYT4) is an upregulated gene in enzalutamide‐resistant (EnzR) cell lines. The downregulation of SYT4, in combination with enzalutamide therapy, substantially enhances the antiproliferative effect on resistant prostate cancer cells beyond the capacity of enzalutamide monotherapy. SYT4 promotes vesicle efflux by binding to the synaptosome‐associated protein 25 (SNAP25), thereby contributing to cell resistance against enzalutamide. The elevated expression of SYT4 is mediated by bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4), and BRD4 inhibition effectively suppressed the expression of SYT4. Treatment with a therapeutic dose of enzalutamide combined with ASO‐1, an antisense oligonucleotide drug targeting SYT4, shows promising results in reversing the resistance of prostate cancer to enzalutamide.
Self‐regulation and comprehension in shared reading: The moderating effects of verbal interactions and E‐book discussion prompts
Authors: Yang Dandan , Ge Yan , Sun Yiwen , Collins Penelope , Jaeggi Susanne M. , Xu Ying , Shea Zhiling Meng , Warschauer Mark
Published: June 2024

The study examined how children's self‐regulation skills measured by the strengths and weaknesses of ADHD symptoms and normal behavior rating are associated with story comprehension and how verbal engagement and e‐book discussion prompts moderate this relation. Children aged 3–7 (N = 111, 50% female, Chinese as first language) read an interactive Chinese–English bilingual story e‐book with or without discussion prompts twice with their parents (2020–2021). Results demonstrated that the lower children's self‐regulation skills, the more they struggled with story comprehension. Critically, our data suggest that embedding e‐book discussion prompts and more verbalization in English can mitigate this negative association for children with inattention/hyperactivity. These findings have critical implications for future e‐book design, interventions, and home reading practice for children with inattention/hyperactivity and those at risk for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Preventive behaviors of respiratory infections in staff of hospital in Kazeroon, Fars, Iran: An application of protection motivation theory
Authors: Rakhshani Tayebeh , Shafiei Zohreh , Taravatmanesh Samira , Kashfi Seyyed Mansour , Harsini Pooyan Afzali , Kamyab Amirhossein , Jeihooni Ali Khani
Published: June 2024

Background

One of the most crucial and essential methods for the prevention and management of respiratory infections is for healthcare professionals to take precautions for their own safety. Using Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), the current study looked into effective elements influencing the staff at Kazeroon's Valiasr Hospital's preventive actions against respiratory diseases.

Methods

One hundred ninety‐two male and 108 female employees of the Valiasr Hospital in Kazeroon, Iran, participated in this cross‐sectional study, in May 2022. Census data were used as the sample technique. A questionnaire based on the PMT and a questionnaire collecting demographic data served as the data collection method. The study's content validity was confirmed by 10 health education experts, and its reliability was assessed using internal consistency techniques, resulting in a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.87.The statistical program SPSS 24 was used to examine the data using the independent t test, logistic regression, and Pearson correlation.

Results

The average age was 34.11 ± 8.91 for men and 32.77 ± 6.09 for women. The majority of participants were married (73.3%), had university education (76.7%), and earned a monthly income between 10 and 15 million Tomans (75%). Notably, 97.7% of participants had received the COVID‐19 vaccine, and 77.7% had undergone training related to respiratory infections. The most common preventive practices included avoiding touching the eyes, noses, or mouths, wearing appropriate protective gear, and maintaining a safe distance of 1–2 m from others. Analysis of PMT constructs showed that participants had a generally positive perception toward preventive behaviors. Perceived vulnerability (P = 0.02), perceived cost (P = 0.03), and motivation (P = 0.001) were the three analyzed components that had the greatest impact on respiratory infection preventative behavior. Logistic regression revealed that perceived susceptibility, cost, and motivation significantly predicted the prevention of respiratory infections, with a predictive power of 45%. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the factors influencing preventive behaviors among hospital staff, from respiratory infections like COVID‐19.

Conclusion

According to the findings, the personnel at Kazeroon's Valiasr Hospital wore gloves, goggles, and other appropriate personal protective equipment. The individuals' decision to wear personal protection equipment was also impacted by perceived susceptibility, cost, and motivation.
The incidence and persistence of partnerships in a British industrial city: Glasgow, 1861–81
Authors: Acheson Graeme , McLaughlin Eoin , Newton Gill , Perriton Linda
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the prevalence of business partnerships in a late‐nineteenth‐century British city, using individual‐level data from post office directories and censuses. Focusing on Glasgow, we present a detailed picture of partnership number and type, demographic characteristics of the entrepreneurs who ran them, and how these businesses persisted over time. We show that partnerships were a key business grouping in the city and demonstrate that the partnership form was advantageous in manufacturing and that the majority of partnerships were formed between individuals without family ties. Furthermore, we offer new insight into business longevity, showing that partnership business survival broadly matched corporate survival rates in this period, with persistence data also suggesting that kinship partnerships were better able to deal with the perceived hold‐up problems associated with the partnership form.