bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute undifferentiated leukemia with undifferentiated myeloid sarcoma: Case report and literature review
Authors: Luo Lan , Wang Xiaoqing , Luo Ji , Zheng Shuai , Gong Ninghan , He Yuan , Xi Qian , Chen Jiao , Jiang Tao , Zhong Ling
Published: February 2024

Background:

With the advancement of diagnostic technology, true acute undifferentiated leukemia (AUL) is becoming more rare, and AUL with extramedullary sarcoma has not been reported.

Case presentation:

This article reports a case of AUL with extramedullary sarcoma. Flow cytometric analysis of the bone marrow and lymph nodes indicated that the tumor cells of both were of the same origin and mainly expressed stem cell markers and CD7, no myeloid-specific markers, T-lymphoblastic-related markers, and B-lymphoblastic-related markers. Although the priming regimen combined with azacitidine was ineffective, complete remission was achieved by switching to azacitidine combined with HIA (homoharringtonine, idarubicin plus Ara-C).

Conclusion:

To diagnosis de novo acute leukemia with extensive and comprehensive cellular immune maker detection is available and credible, the expression of a single relatively nonspecific myeloid antigen as a immune maker to detect AUL or AUL associated with sarcoma is precise and effective in our case, which patient was benefit from HIA regiment.
A unusual presentation of liver failure caused by Ibuprofen-sustained release capsules: A case report
Authors: Liu Yan , Liu Ming-wei
Published: February 2024

Rationale:

Previous studies have shown that acetaminophen has the potential to induce hepatotoxicity in patients, rendering it a prominent drug implicated in the development of acute hepatic failure. However, there is currently no available literature reporting the impact of ibuprofen-sustained release capsules on liver failure.

Patient concerns:

A 65-year-old man was presented with a 4-day history of tea-colored urine with oil avoidance, jaundiced skin, and anorexia, and impaired liver function. One ibuprofen-sustained release capsule was taken on the day before the onset of the disease due to “headache.”

Diagnoses:

A diagnosis of this patient was made of liver failure due to taking ibuprofen-sustained release capsules.

Interventions:

Initially, the patient discontinued the use of hepatotoxic drugs in order to prevent further exposure. Subsequently, the patient underwent a standard therapeutic regimen, which encompassed the administration of hepatoprotective agents, nutritional support drugs, correction of acid-base imbalances, and electrolyte abnormalities, as well as other relevant treatments.

Outcomes:

After 9 days of hepatoprotective and nutritional supplement therapy, the patient saw notable improvement in symptoms, reporting an absence of discomfort, subsided skin jaundice, clear urine, and liver function tests returning to a near normal range. The patient was granted permission to be discharged from the hospital while being prescribed drugs. After 2 weeks of follow-up, the patient reported an absence of discomfort and exhibited normal results in the liver function test.

Conclusions:

Liver failure caused by ibuprofen-sustained release capsules has not been reported. It is worth noting that conventional treatments such as suspending offending agents, and administration of hepatoprotective agents and nutritional support drugs have proven to be successful.

Lesson:

There is currently no known peer-reviewed literature indicating that the administration of ibuprofen-sustained release capsules leads to liver failure. When patients taking ibuprofen-sustained release capsules encounter symptoms such as anorexia, skin jaundice, lack of appetite, and nausea, it is recommended that they undertake a cardiac and liver function tests. In the event that ibuprofen-sustained release capsules induce liver injury, it is imperative to administer timely and immediate medical intervention.
Hepatocellular carcinoma combined with sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Li Jingyi , Gao Xizhuang , Zhao Kun , Meng Xiangzheng , Liu Shuwei , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2024

Rationale:

Sarcomatoid hepatocellular carcinoma (SHC) is an uncommon variant of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), characterized by HCC features combined with sarcomatoid histology and manifestations. The simultaneous occurrence of HCC and hepatosarcomatoid carcinoma is infrequent. This report presents a distinctive instance of HCC coexisting with hepatic sarcomatoid carcinoma in a 56-year-old male. The case exhibits an unusual clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Through the presentation of this case, we aspire to contribute novel concepts to shape forthcoming strategies encompassing SHC diagnosis and treatment.

Patient concerns:

The 56-year-old male patient was admitted to the hospital, due to discovering a hepatic mass lasting for over 2 months.

Diagnoses:

Ultimately, combined hepatocellular and SHC diagnosis was conclusively confirmed through histopathological and imaging examinations.

Intervention:

In this case, our approach encompassed hepatectomy coupled with ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation for HCC. Intraoperative ultrasound localization was employed for accurate tumor identification, followed by postoperative hepatic artery embolization to facilitate meticulous tumor resection.

Outcomes:

He underwent hepatic arteriography chemoembolization treatment and is currently stable, experiencing regular chemotherapy follow-up visits.

Lessons:

The presence of distinct tumor types concurrently can influence treatment choices and prognosis. Given the intricate nature of this condition, crafting an optimal treatment strategy necessitates the incorporation of variables such as the patient age, tumor characteristics, liver function, and other pertinent factors.
Rotational Thromboelastometry and Clot Waveform Analysis as Point-of-Care Tests for Diagnosis of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Critically Ill Children in Thailand*
Authors: Chanthong Supapitch , Choed-Amphai Chane , Manowong Suphara , Tuntivate Pakinee , Tansriratanawong Supakanya , Makonkawkeyoon Krit , Natesirinilkul Rungrote
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVES:

This study aimed to determine the test performances of rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) and activated partial thromboplastin time-based clot waveform analysis (aPTT-CWA) compared with the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis disseminated intravascular coagulation (ISTH-DIC) score for diagnosis of overt disseminated intravascular coagulation (ODIC) in critically ill children. Prognostic indicators of DIC complications were also evaluated.

DESIGN:

A prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted. ROTEM and aPTT-CWA were assessed alongside standard parameters based on the ISTH-DIC score and natural anticoagulants. Both conventional and global hemostatic tests were repeated on days 3–5 for nonovert DIC.

SETTING:

PICU of the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.

SUBJECTS:

Infants and children who were admitted to PICU with underlying diseases predisposed to DIC, such as sepsis, malignancy, major surgery, trauma, or severe illness, were included in the study between July 1, 2021, and November 30, 2022.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Sixty-four children were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of ODIC was 20.3%. Regarding ROTEM parameters, using EXTEM clot formation time (CFT) cutoff of greater than 102 seconds provided sensitivity and specificity of 90.9% and 80.9%, respectively, for diagnosing ODIC, with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.86. In the case of aPTT-CWA performance, no biphasic waveform was observed, whereas both maximum coagulation acceleration (Min2) of less than 0.35%/s2and maximum coagulation deceleration of less than 0.25%/s2demonstrated identical sensitivities of 76.9% and specificities of 79.6%. Combining two global hemostatic tests significantly improved the diagnostic performance (INTEM CFT + EXTEM CFT + Min2 AUC 0.92 [95% CI, 0.80–1.00] vs. EXTEM CFT AUC 0.86 [95% CI, 0.75–0.96],p= 0.034). Bleeding was the most common consequence. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, Min2 of less than 0.36%/s2was an independent risk factor for bleeding complications, with an adjusted odds ratio of 15.08 (95% CI, 1.08–211.15,p= 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS:

ROTEM and aPTT-CWA were valuable diagnostic tools in critically ill children who might require point-of-care tests. Min2 showed significant clinical implications for predicting bleeding events in this population.
High Variability in the Duration of Chest Compression Interruption is Associated With Poor Outcomes in Pediatric Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Han Peggy , Rasmussen Lindsey , Su Felice , Dacre Michael , Knight Lynda , Berg Marc , Tawfik Daniel , Haileselassie Bereketeab
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the association between chest compression interruption (CCI) patterns and outcomes in pediatric patients undergoing extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR).

DESIGN:

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) data were collected using defibrillator-electrode and bedside monitor waveforms from pediatric ECPR cases between 2013 and 2021. Duration and variability of CCI during cannulation for ECPR was determined and compared with survival to discharge using Fishers exact test and logistic regressions with cluster-robustses for adjusted analyses.

SETTING:

Quaternary care children’s hospital.

PATIENTS:

Pediatric patients undergoing ECPR.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Of 41 ECPR events, median age was 0.7 years (Q1, Q3: 0.1, 5.4), 37% (15/41) survived to hospital discharge with 73% (11/15) of survivors having a favorable neurologic outcome. Median duration of CPR from start of ECPR cannulation procedure to initiation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) flow was 21 minutes (18, 30). Median duration of no-flow times associated with CCI during ECMO cannulation was 11 seconds (5, 28). Following planned adjustment for known confounders, survival to discharge was inversely associated with maximum duration of CCI (odds ratio [OR] 0.91 [0.86–0.95],p= 0.04) as well as the variability in the CCI duration (OR 0.96 [0.93–0.99],p= 0.04). Cases with both above-average CCI duration and higher CCI variability (sd> 30 s) were associated with lowest survival (12% vs. 54%,p= 0.009). Interaction modeling suggests that lower variability in CCI is associated with improved survival, especially in cases where average CCI durations are higher.

CONCLUSIONS:

Shorter duration of CCI and lower variability in CCI during cannulation for ECPR were associated with survival following refractory pediatric cardiac arrest.
An endothelial SOX18-mevalonate pathway axis enables repurposing of statins for infantile hemangioma
Authors: Holm Annegret , Graus Matthew S. , Wylie-Sears Jill , Borgelt Luke , Heng Tan Jerry Wei , Nasim Sana , Chung Long , Jain Ashish , Sun Mingwei , Sun Liang , Brouillard Pascal , Lekwuttikarn Ramrada , Kozakewich Harry , Qi Jacob Yanfei , Teng Joyce C. , Mulliken John B. , Vikkula Miikka , Francois Mathias , Bischoff Joyce
Published: February 2024

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common tumor in children and a paradigm for pathological vasculogenesis, angiogenesis and regression. Propranolol is the mainstay of treatment for IH. It inhibits hemangioma vessel formation via a β-adrenergic receptor independent off-target effect of its R(+) enantiomer on the endothelial specific transcription factor sex-determining region Y (SRY) box transcription factor 18 (SOX18). Transcriptomic profiling of patient-derived hemangioma stem cells uncovered the mevalonate pathway (MVP) as a target of R(+) propranolol. Loss of SOX18 function confirmed R(+) propranolol mode of action on the MVP. Functional validation in preclinical IH models revealed that statins - targeting the MVP - are potent inhibitors of hemangioma vessel formation. We propose a novel SOX18-MVP-axis as a central regulator of IH pathogenesis and suggest statin repurposing to treat IH. Our findings reveal novel pleiotropic effects of beta-blockers and statins acting on the SOX18-MVP axis to disable an endothelial specific program in IH, which may impact other scenarios involving pathological vasculogenesis and angiogenesis.

Graphical abstract
A novel microporous biomaterial vaccine platform for long-lasting antibody mediated immunity against viral infection
Authors: Mayer Daniel P. , Neslon Mariah E. , Andriyanova Daria , Antao Olivia Q. , Chen Jennifer S. , Scumpia Philip O. , Weaver Westbrook M. , Deshayes Stephanie , Weinstein Jason S.
Published: February 2024

Current antigen delivery platforms, such as alum and nanoparticles, are not readily tunable, thus may not generate optimal adaptive immune responses. We created an antigen delivery platform by loading lyophilized Microporous Annealed Particle (MAP) with aqueous solution containing target antigens. Upon administration of antigen loaded MAP (VaxMAP), the biomaterial reconstitution forms an instant antigen-loaded porous scaffold area with a sustained release profile to maximize humoral immunity. VaxMAP induced CD4+ T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and germinal center (GC) B cell responses in the lymph nodes similar to Alum. VaxMAP loaded with SARS-CoV-2 spike protein improved the magnitude and duration of anti-receptor binding domain antibodies compared to Alum and mRNA-vaccinated mice. A single injection of Influenza specific HA1-loaded-VaxMAP enhanced neutralizing antibodies and elicited greater protection against influenza virus challenge than HA1-loaded-Alum. Thus, VaxMAP is a platform that can be used to promote adaptive immune cell responses to generate more robust neutralizing antibodies, and better protection upon pathogen challenge.
Combination therapies delay cognitive decline over 10 years in Alzheimer’s NACC participants
Authors: Shang Yuan , Torrandell-Haro Georgina , Vitali Francesca , Brinton Roberta Diaz
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Delaying cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease can significantly impact both function and quality of life.

METHODS

Longitudinal analysis of National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) dataset of 7,653 mild dementia CDR-SB AD participants at baseline with prescriptions for diabetes (DBMD), lipid-lowering (LIPL), anti-hypertensive (AHTN), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSD) medications over 10 years was evaluated for change in cognitive function relative to non-treated stratified by sex and APOE genotype.

RESULTS

Combination therapy of DBMD+LIPL+AHTN+NSD resulted in a 44% / 35% (MMSE/CDR-SB) delay in cognitive decline at 5 years and 47% / 35% (MMSE/CDR-SB) delay at 10 years. Females and APOE4 carriers exhibited greatest cognitive benefit of combination therapy.

DISCUSSION

Combination therapies significantly delayed cognitive decline in NACC AD participants at a magnitude comparable to or greater than beta-amyloid immunomodulator interventions. These data support combination precision medicine targeting AD risk factors to alter the course of the disease that persists for a decade.
Prevalence of ocular manifestations in cutaneous rosacea: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nazzicone Kristina , Kirkpatrick Ryan H. , Biorac Aleksandar , Froentjes Anneke R. , Molin Sonja , Simpson Sarah
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with concomitant ocular manifestations and neurogenic symptoms. Ocular rosacea poses a particular diagnostic challenge as its signs and symptoms often overlap with other ocular pathologies. Cutaneous and ocular rosacea present together in approximately 21-50% of patients, yet a solid understanding of comorbid ocular and cutaneous symptoms is lacking. Therefore, the present paper outlines a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis to describe and quantify the prevalence of ocular rosacea in cutaneous rosacea and each of its subtypes. Methods: This study will follow Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and be conducted using the systematic review software, Covidence. To determine inclusion, screening will occur at two levels (title and abstract-only followed by full-text) and will be completed separately by two authors. Primary research studies on ocular rosacea in adult cutaneous rosacea published in all languages and geographic regions until November 2023 will be reviewed for inclusion. Data pertaining to overall prevalence of ocular rosacea across and within cutaneous rosacea subtypes, mean age, sex, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, time to diagnosis, time to treatment, and prevalence of comorbid conditions will be extracted. For each included study, the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) framework will be applied to assess study quality. Conclusion: To the authors’ knowledge, this will be the first systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the prevalence of ocular rosacea in the various cutaneous subtypes in an adult population. By addressing this knowledge gap, this study aims to provide clear and easily interpretable data to aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of ocular rosacea. This study is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO ID# CRD42023475026).

Key Message

Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the prevalence of ocular manifestations in adult rosacea
Association between lifestyle at different life periods and brain integrity in older adults
Authors: Turpin Anne-Laure , Felisatti Francesca , Mézenge Florence , Landeau Brigitte , Vivien Denis , de la Sayette Vincent , Chételat Gaël , Gonneaud Julie ,   the Medit-Ageing Research Group
Published: February 2024

Importance

Lifestyle factors have been associated with dementia risk and neuroimaging markers of ageing and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), but the period at which they have the greatest influence remains unclear.

Objective

To determine the relative influence of lifestyle at different life periods on older adults’ brain health.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Baseline data from the Age-Well trial were used in this study. Cognitively unimpaired participants aged 65 years and older were recruited in the general population between November 2016 to March 2018 in Caen, France. Analysis took place between June 2022 and September 2023.

Exposure(s)

The Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire (LEQ) was used to assess lifestyle during young adulthood (3-30y), midlife (30-65y) and late-life (>65y). For each life period, LEQ score is divided into specific and non-specific subscores.

Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s)

Multiple regressions were conducted including lifestyle at the three life periods (in the same model) to predict gray matter volume (GMv; from structural MRI), glucose metabolism (FDG-PET), perfusion (Florbetapir-PET, early-acquisition) and amyloid burden (Florbetapir-PET, late-acquisition), both in AD-sensitive regions and voxel-wise, controlling for age and sex. Then, comparisons of correlations between lifestyle at each life period, as well as between specific versus non-specific activities, and neuroimaging outcomes were performed.

Results

Of the 135 older adults (mean age=69.3±3.79), 61.5% were women. No significant association was found between LEQ scores and AD-sensitive regions. While LEQ-young was not associated with neuroimaging, LEQ-midlife was more strongly associated with GMv, including in the anterior cingulate cortex, and with amyloid burden in the precuneus compared to the other periods. LEQ-late showed stronger associations with perfusion and glucose metabolism than LEQ-young and LEQ-midlife in medial frontal regions. Lower amyloid burden was more strongly correlated with LEQ-midlife specific than non-specific activities (z=-2.0977, p<.05, [95% CI, −0.3985 - −0.0102]) while perfusion was more strongly correlated with LEQ-late non-specific than specific scores (z=2.4369, p<.01, [95% CI, 0.0.415-0.4165]).

Conclusions and Relevance

Lifestyle at different life periods might have complementary benefits on structural/molecularversusfunctional markers of brain health in late-life. Interestingly, these associations were found in regions related to reserve/resilience and aging.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.govIdentifier:NCT02977819
Receptor kinase LecRK-I.9 regulates cell wall remodelling and signalling during lateral root formation inArabidopsis
Authors: Bellande Kevin , Roujol David , Chourré Josiane , Gall Sophie Le , Martinez Yves , Jauneau Alain , Burlat Vincent , Jamet Elisabeth , Canut Hervé
Published: February 2024

Assembling and remodelling the cell wall is essential for plant development. Cell wall dynamic is controlled by cell wall proteins and a variety of sensor and receptor systems. LecRK-I.9, anArabidopsis thalianaplasma membrane-localised lectin receptor kinase, was previously shown to be involved in cell wall-plasma membrane contacts and to play roles in plant-pathogen interactions, but so far, its role in development was unknown.LecRK-I.9is transcribed at a high level in root tissues including the pericycle. Comparative transcript profiling of a loss-of-function mutantvswild type identifies LecRK-I.9 as a regulator of cell wall metabolism. Consistently,lecrk-I.9mutants display an increased pectin methylesterification level correlated with decreased pectin methylesterase and increased polygalacturonase activities. Also, LecRK-I.9 impacts lateral root development through the regulation of genes encoding (i) cell wall remodelling proteins during early events of lateral root initiation, and (ii) cell wall signalling peptides (CLE2, CLE4) repressing lateral root emergence and growth. Besides, low nitrate reducesLecRK-I.9expression in pericycle and interferes with its regulatory network: however, the control ofCLE2andCLE4expression is maintained. Altogether, the results show that LecRK-I.9 is a key player in a signalling network regulating both pre-branch site formation and lateral root emergence.

Highlight

The lectin receptor kinase LecRK-I.9 regulates the molecular events leading to lateral root formation in both the initiation and emergence processes in Arabidopsis through cell wall remodelling enzymes and signalling peptides.
Integrative analysis of nanopore direct RNA sequencing data reveals a role of PUS7-dependent pseudouridylation in regulation of m6A and m5C modifications
Authors: Bansal Mohit , Kundu Anirban , Gupta Anamika , Ding Jane , Gibson Andrew , RudraRaju Sanjay Varma , Sudarshan Sunil , Ding Han-Fei
Published: February 2024

Understanding the interactions between different RNA modifications is essential for unraveling their biological functions. Here, we report NanoPsiPy, a computational pipeline that employs nanopore direct RNA sequencing to identify pseudouridine (Ψ) sites and quantify their levels at single-nucleotide resolution. We validated NanoPsiPy by transcriptome-wide profiling of PUS7-dependent Ψ sites in poly-A RNA and rRNA. NanoPsiPy leverages Ψ-induced U-to-C basecalling errors in nanopore sequencing data, allowing detection of both low and high stoichiometric Ψ sites. We identified 8,624 PUS7-dependent Ψ sites in 1,246 mRNAs encoding proteins associated with ribosome biogenesis, translation, and energy metabolism. Importantly, integrative analysis revealed that PUS7 knockdown increases global mRNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and 5-methylcytosine (m5C) levels, suggesting an antagonistic relationship between Ψ and these modifications. Our study underscores the potential of nanopore direct RNA sequencing in revealing the co-regulation of RNA modifications and the capacity of NanoPsiPy in analyzing pseudouridylation and its impact on other RNA modifications.
Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization in Embryos of the African Turquoise KillifishNothobranchius furzeri
Authors: Abitua Philip B.
Published: February 2024

Precisely where and when a given gene is expressed is crucial for our understanding of developmental and cell biology but determining this is often constrained by detection limits. Here, we describe a technique for visualization of low-copy mRNA inNothobranchius furzeriembryos using tyramide signal amplification (TSA). In this protocol, an anti-sense digoxigenin-labeled RNA probe is hybridized to mRNA in situ. Anti-digoxigenin antibodies conjugated to horseradish peroxidase (POD) are then bound to the probe and reacted with fluorescently labeled tyramide. Combining this method with a counterstain, such as DAPI, allows for the detection of mRNA at a single-cell resolution.
Oligonucleotide Design and Construction of a Gene-Targeting CRISPR–Cas9 Plasmid inEscherichia colifor Generating a Gene-Deletion Strain inStaphylococcus aureus
Authors: Gründling Angelika , Salipante Stephen J.
Published: February 2024

Gene deletions can be constructed inStaphylococcus aureususing recombineering in combination with a CRISPR–Cas9 counterselection approach. The method involves first designing the recombineering oligonucleotides and generating the relevant plasmids, and then introducing these elements intoS. aureusto generate the desired gene deletion. Here, we describe the first part of this workflow, oligonucleotide design and plasmid generation. To better illustrate the method and oligonucleotide design, the construction of a 55-bp out-of-frame deletion in theS. aureus gehgene will be presented as a specific example. To this end, we describe the use ofgehgene–specific recombineering oligonucleotides and the construction of agehgene–targeting CRISPR–Cas9 plasmid. The protocol is divided into three parts: (1) design of the gene-specific targeting spacer oligonucleotides for introduction into the CRISPR–Cas9 plasmid pCas9-counter, (2) design of 90-mer recombineering oligonucleotides to generate a 55-bp out-of-frame gene deletion, and (3) construction of the gene-targeting CRISPR–Cas9 plasmid pCas9-geh, plasmid recovery inEscherichia coli, and confirmation by colony PCR and sequencing. The method can easily be adapted to design deletions for otherS. aureusgenes.
Introduction of a Recombineering Oligonucleotide and a CRISPR–Cas9 Gene-Targeting Plasmid intoStaphylococcus aureusfor Generating a Gene-Deletion Strain
Authors: Gründling Angelika , Salipante Stephen J.
Published: February 2024

Gene deletions can be generated inStaphylococcus aureususing recombineering in combination with a CRISPR–Cas9 counterselection approach. The method involves first designing the recombineering oligonucleotides and generating the relevant plasmids, and then introducing these elements intoS. aureusto generate the desired gene deletion. Here, we describe the second part of this workflow; the introduction of the gene-targeting plasmid and the recombineering oligonucleotide(s) intoS. aureusto generate the gene-deletion strain. Specifically, we outline the steps to (1) generate theS. aureusrecipient strain for the recombineering CRISPR–Cas9 counterselection method by introducing plasmid pCN-EF2132tet, (2) introduce the recombineering oligonucleotide(s) and gene-targeting plasmid into the pCN-EF2132tet plasmid-containingS. aureusstrain, (3) confirm the gene deletion inS. aureusby colony PCR and sequencing, and (4) curate the plasmids following successful gene deletion. To illustrate the method, we give a specific example of how to generate a 55-bp deletion in thegehgene ofS. aureusstrain RN4220. The protocol, however, can be easily adapted to other strain backgrounds and to generate deletions in other genes.
Binding potential and wetting behavior of binary liquid mixtures on surfaces
Authors: Areshi Mounirah , Tseluiko Dmitri , Thiele Uwe , Goddard Benjamin D. , Archer Andrew J.
Published: February 2024

We present a theory for the interfacial wetting phase behavior of binary liquid mixtures on rigid solid substrates, applicable to both miscible and immiscible mixtures. In particular, we calculate the binding potential as a function of the adsorptions, i.e., the excess amounts of each of the two liquids at the substrate. The binding potential fully describes the corresponding interfacial thermodynamics. Our approach is based on classical density functional theory. Binary liquid mixtures can exhibit complex bulk phase behavior, including both liquid-liquid and vapor-liquid phase separation, depending on the nature of the interactions among all the particles of the two different liquids, the temperature, and the chemical potentials. Here we show that the interplay between the bulk phase behavior of the mixture and the properties of the interactions with the substrate gives rise to a wide variety of interfacial phase behaviors, including mixing and demixing situations. We find situations where the final state is a coexistence of up to three different phases. We determine how the liquid density profiles close to the substrate change as the interaction parameters are varied and how these determine the form of the binding potential, which in certain cases can be a multivalued function of the adsorptions. We also present profiles for sessile droplets of both miscible and immiscible binary liquids.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Axion Paradigm with Color-Mediated Neutrino Masses
Authors: Batra A. , Câmara H. B. , Joaquim F. R. , Srivastava R. , Valle J. W. F.
Published: February 2024

We propose a generalized Kim-Shifman-Vainshtein-Zakharov–type axion framework in which colored fermions and scalars act as two-loop Majorana neutrino-mass mediators. The global Peccei-Quinn symmetry under which exotic fermions are charged solves the strong CP problem. Within our general proposal, various setups can be distinguished by probing the axion-to-photon coupling at helioscopes and haloscopes. We also comment on axion dark-matter production in the early Universe.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quark Mass Dependence of Heavy Quark Diffusion Coefficient from Lattice QCD
Authors: Altenkort Luis , de la Cruz David , Kaczmarek Olaf , Larsen Rasmus , Moore Guy D. , Mukherjee Swagato , Petreczky Peter , Shu Hai-Tao , Stendebach Simon ,   HotQCD Collaboration
Published: February 2024

We present the first study of the quark mass dependence of the heavy quark momentum and spatial diffusion coefficients using lattice QCD with light dynamical quarks corresponding to a pion mass of 320 MeV. We find that, for the temperature range 195  MeV<T<293  MeV, the spatial diffusion coefficients of the charm and bottom quarks are smaller than those obtained in phenomenological models that describe the pT spectra and elliptic flow of open heavy flavor hadrons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Domain Wall Dynamics in Classical Spin Chains: Free Propagation, Subdiffusive Spreading, and Soliton Emission
Authors: McRoberts Adam J. , Bilitewski Thomas , Haque Masudul , Moessner Roderich
Published: February 2024

The nonequilibrium dynamics of domain wall initial states in a classical anisotropic Heisenberg chain exhibits a striking coexistence of apparently linear and nonlinear behaviors: the propagation and spreading of the domain wall can be captured quantitatively by , i.e., noninteracting, spin wave theory absent its usual justifications; while, simultaneously, for a wide range of easy-plane anisotropies, emission can take the place of stable solitons—a process and objects intrinsically associated with interactions and nonlinearities. The easy-axis domain wall only has transient dynamics, the isotropic one broadens diffusively, while the easy-plane one yields a pair of ballistically counterpropagating domain walls which, unusually, broaden , their width scaling as t1/3.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Emergent Collective Motion of Self-Propelled Condensate Droplets
Authors: Lin Marcus , Kim Philseok , Arunachalam Sankara , Hardian Rifan , Adera Solomon , Aizenberg Joanna , Yao Xi , Daniel Dan
Published: February 2024

Recently, there is much interest in droplet condensation on soft or liquid or liquidlike substrates. Droplets can deform soft and liquid interfaces resulting in a wealth of phenomena not observed on hard, solid surfaces (e.g., increased nucleation, interdroplet attraction). Here, we describe a unique collective motion of condensate water droplets that emerges spontaneously when a solid substrate is covered with a thin oil film. Droplets move first in a serpentine, self-avoiding fashion before transitioning to circular motions. We show that this self-propulsion (with speeds in the 0.1–1  mm s−1 range) is fueled by the interfacial energy release upon merging with newly condensed but much smaller droplets. The resultant collective motion spans multiple length scales from submillimeter to several centimeters, with potentially important heat-transfer and water-harvesting applications.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
DOMAS: a data management software framework for advanced light sources
Authors: Hu Hao , Lei Lei , Wang Haofan , Zhuang Bo , Zhang Ruojin , Luo Qi , Sun Xiaokang , Qi Fazhi
Published: February 2024

In recent years, China's advanced light sources have entered a period of rapid construction and development. As modern X-ray detectors and data acquisition technologies advance, these facilities are expected to generate massive volumes of data annually, presenting significant challenges in data management and utilization. These challenges encompass data storage, metadata handling, data transfer and user data access. In response, the Data Organization Management Access Software (DOMAS) has been designed as a framework to address these issues. DOMAS encapsulates four fundamental modules of data management software, including metadata catalogue, metadata acquisition, data transfer and data service. For light source facilities, building a data management system only requires parameter configuration and minimal code development within DOMAS. This paper firstly discusses the development of advanced light sources in China and the associated demands and challenges in data management, prompting a reconsideration of data management software framework design. It then outlines the architecture of the framework, detailing its components and functions. Lastly, it highlights the application progress and effectiveness of DOMAS when deployed for the High Energy Photon Source (HEPS) and Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility (BSRF).
The effect of classroom acoustics and noise on high school students’ listening, learning and well-being: a scoping review
Authors: Mealings Kiri , Buchholz Joerg M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to systematically map research on the effect of classroom acoustics and noise on high school students’ listening, learning and well-being, as well as identify knowledge gaps to inform future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR protocol. A comprehensive search of four online databases (ERIC, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science) was conducted. Peer-reviewed papers were included if they conducted a study on the effect of classroom acoustics or noise on students’ listening, learning or well-being; had a clear definition of the noise level measurement; were conducted with high school students; and had the full text in English available.

Findings

In total, 14 papers met the criteria to be included in the review. The majority of studies assessed the impact of noise on students’ listening, learning or well-being. Overall, the results showed that higher noise levels have a negative effect on students’ listening, learning and well-being. Effects were even more pronounced for students who were non-native speakers or those with special educational needs such as hearing loss. Therefore, it would be beneficial to limit unnecessary noise in the classroom as much as possible through acoustic insulation, acoustic treatment and classroom management strategies.

Originality/value

This paper is the first review paper to synthesize previous research on the effect of classroom acoustics and noise on high school students’ listening, learning and well-being. It provides an analysis of the limitations of existing literature and proposes future research to help fill in these gaps.
An evaluation of 2013 privatization on Benin Electricity Distribution technical and workforce performance
Authors: Esan Oluwadamilola , Nwulu Nnamdi I. , David Love Opeyemi , Adepoju Omoseni
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of the 2013 privatization of Nigeria’s energy sector on the technical performance of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) and its workforce.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a questionnaire-based approach, and 196 participants were randomly selected. Analytical tools included standard deviation, Spearman rank correlation and regression analysis.

Findings

Before privatization, the energy sector, managed by the power holding company of Nigeria, suffered from inefficiencies in fault detection, response and billing. However, privatization improved resource utilization, replaced outdated transformers and increased operational efficiency. However, in spite of these improvements, BEDC faces challenges, including unstable voltage generation and inadequate staff welfare. This study also highlighted a lack of experience among the trained workforce in emerging electricity technologies such as the smart grid.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s focus on BEDC may limit its generalizability to other energy companies. It does not delve into energy sector privatization’s broader economic and policy implications.

Practical implications

The positive outcomes of privatization, such as improved resource utilization and infrastructure investment, emphasize the potential benefits of private ownership and management. However, voltage generation stability and staff welfare challenges call for targeted interventions. Recommendations include investing in voltage generation enhancement, smart grid infrastructure and implementing measures to enhance employee well-being through benefit plans.

Social implications

Energy sector enhancements hold positive social implications, uplifting living standards and bolstering electricity access for households and businesses.

Originality/value

This study contributes unique insights into privatization’s effects on BEDC, offering perspectives on preprivatization challenges and advancements. Practical recommendations aid BEDC and policymakers in boosting electricity distribution firms’ performance within the privatization context.
The climate wins! – How a gamification approach can foster sustainable consumption on university campuses and beyond
Authors: Berger Verena , Koch David
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Educational institutions have a special social responsibility to initiate processes of sustainability transformation in society, nevertheless, activities that effectively address students as well as employees are rather moderate. To initiate change alongside strategic and political decisions, this paper aims to present findings of a gamification intervention (hereafter referred to as climate duel), which was implemented in a field study and tested to assess its potential as a supporting and transformative approach in a university context.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-month field study was conducted with two universities of applied sciences. The study included an environmental impact analysis of the two participating university departments, the conception and testing of the intervention and associated surveys to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention in order to and to obtain feedback that would allow the duel to be scaled up at other universities or institutions.

Findings

Three hundred seventy-five people took part and saved 2.6 tons of greenhouse gas emissions through their participation in the climate duel and their corresponding behavioural changes. In addition, feedback from the participants yielded positive results in terms of behavioural changes and generated valuable evidence for future implementations. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement, especially in terms of supporting communication activities that promote social relatedness to motivate each other, share experiences or deal with implementation difficulties in everyday life.

Originality/value

Building on the promising effects of gamification, the study is a showcase for applied science. With the possibility of testing a theory-based intervention in practice, an implementable, effective and scalable measure for universities that helps to accelerate the transformation process is available.
Formation mechanism of user stickiness in live e-commerce: the hybrid PLS-SEM and ANN approach
Authors: Wang Lin , Zhu Huiyu , Li Xia , Zhao Yang
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Although user stickiness has been studied for several years in the field of live e-commerce, little attention has been paid to the effects of streamer attributes on user stickiness in this field. Rooted in the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) theory, this study investigated how streamer attributes influence user stickiness.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors obtained 496 valid samples from Chinese live e-commerce users and explored the formation of user stickiness using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Artificial neural network (ANN) was used to capture linear and non-linear relationships and analyze the normalized importance ranking of significant variables, supplementing the PLS-SEM results.

Findings

The authors found that attractiveness and similarity positively impacted parasocial interaction (PSI). Expertise and trustworthiness positively impacted perceived information quality. Moreover, streamer-brand preference mediated the relationship between PSI and user stickiness, as well as the relationship between perceived information quality and user stickiness. Compared to PLS-SEM, the predictive ability of ANN was more robust. Further, the results of PLS-SEM and ANN both showed that attractiveness was the strongest predictor of user stickiness.

Originality/value

This study explained how streamer attributes affect user stickiness and provided a reference value for future research on user behavior in live e-commerce. The exploration of the linear and non-linear relationships between variables based on ANN supplements existing research. Moreover, the results of this study have implications for practitioners on how to improve user stickiness and contribute to the development of the livestreaming industry.
Analysis and future projections of the electricity demands of the Jordanian household sector using artificial neural networks
Authors: Gharaibeh Mohammad A , Alkhatatbeh Ayman
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The continuous increase of energy demands is a critical worldwide matter. Jordan’s household sector accounts for 44% of overall electricity usage annually. This study aims to use artificial neural networks (ANNs) to assess and forecast electricity usage and demands in Jordan’s residential sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Four parameters are evaluated throughout the analysis, namely, population (P), income level (IL), electricity unit price (E$) and fuel unit price (F$). Data on electricity usage and independent factors are gathered from government and literature sources from 1985 to 2020. Several networks are analyzed and optimized for the ANN in terms of root mean square error, mean absolute percentage error and coefficient of determination (R2).

Findings

The predictions of this model are validated and compared with literature-reported models. The results of this investigation showed that the electricity demand of the Jordanian household sector is mainly driven by the population and the fuel price. Finally, time series analysis approach is incorporated to forecast the electricity demands in Jordan’s residential sector for the next decade.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful recommendations and suggestions for the decision-makers in the country for dynamic planning for future resource policies in the household sector.
Micro understanding of the macro: employee perception, corporate social responsibility and job performance
Authors: Wang Chenxiao , Zhang Qingpu , Lu Lu , Tang Fangcheng
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study was aimed at obtaining a micro understanding of corporate social responsibility (CSR) by investigating the effect of perceived CSR on job performance. Especially, an attempt is made to explore the mediating role of perceived organizational support and the moderating role of collectivism on the relationship between perceived CSR and job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected questionnaire data from 219 employees of Chinese manufacturing firms, then used hierarchical multiple regression analysis to test our theoretical model.

Findings

Our empirical results demonstrate that perceived internal and perceived external CSR are positively associated with job performance. In addition, perceived organizational support mediates the relationship between perceived CSR and job performance, and collectivism positively moderates the relationship between perceived external CSR and perceived organizational support.

Practical implications

This study highlights the importance of adopting various strategies to conduct CSR practices, enhancing perceived organizational support and leveraging employee collectivism, which would be beneficial to improve job performance.

Originality/value

This study reveals employees’ underlying attitudes and behaviors responses to perceived CSR, thereby deepening the micro understanding of CSR. In addition, it extends the literature on social exchange theory by dividing perceived CSR into perceived internal and perceived external CSR and exploring their separate effects on job performance. Moreover, the study reveals the mediating role of perceived organizational support and the moderating role of collectivism, enriching the knowledge based on social exchange theory.
HR excellence enablers and results: developing a scale for assessing key internal and external HR stakeholders’ perceptions
Authors: Ghlichlee Behrooz
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a multistakeholder scale for assessing an excellent human resource (HR) function to demonstrate the extent to which it is focused on creating value from the perspective of its key internal and external stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

At the first stage, an in-depth literature review was conducted to extract the best practices for an excellent HR function. Then, to test the validation of the developed framework, it was sent to HR academics and practitioners in different countries. The survey responses were analyzed using the methods of the structural equation modeling (SEM) and confirmatory factorial analysis.

Findings

This study proposes an excellent HR multistakeholder assessment scale consisting of ten criteria based on the perceptions of internal and external HR stakeholders.

Research limitations/implications

This study suggests a framework for assessing overall HR excellence based on the perceptions of key internal and external HR stakeholders. In addition, it is recommended that future researchers empirically test the developed scale across various industries and firm sizes.

Practical implications

HR managers, by using this framework, could continuously assess their HR excellence and compare their HR excellence with other companies’ HR excellence in the industry and then plan for continuous improvement in different HR areas to improve their stakeholders’ experiences.

Originality/value

This paper identifies the enablers and results of an excellent HR department and designs a multistakeholder feedback scale to better understand key internal and external HR stakeholders’ perceptions.