bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular mechanism of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli induced apoptosis in cultured human intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Priya Anshu , Chandel Shipra , Joon Archana , Ghosh Sujata
Published: October 2023

Background. Enteroaggregative

Escherichia coli

(EAEC) is an evolving etiological agent of acute and persistent diarrhoea worldwide. The previous study from our laboratory has reported the apoptosis-inducing activity of EAEC in human small intestinal and colonic epithelial cell lines. In the present investigation, we have explored the underlying mechanism of EAEC-induced apoptosis in human intestinal epithelial cell lines.

Methods. INT-407 and HCT-15 cells were infected with EAEC-T8 and EAEC-pT8 (plasmid cured strain of EAEC-T8) separately. Cells cultured in the absence of bacteria served as a negative control in all the experiments. For the subsequent experiments, the molecular mechanism(s) of epithelial cell aposptosis was measured in EAEC infecting both the cell lines by flow cytometry, real-time PCR and Western blotting.

Results and conclusions. EAEC was found to activate the intrinsic/mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in both the cell lines through upregulation of pro-apoptotic Bax and Bak, un-alteration/reduction in the level of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL, decrease in mitochondrial transmembrane potential, accumulation of cytosolic cytochrome c leading to activation of procaspase-9 and procaspase-3, which ultimately resulted in DNA fragmentation and apoptosis. Further, an increased expression of Fas, activation of procaspase-8 and upregulation of pro-apoptotic Bid in the EAEC-infected cells indicated the involvement of extrinsic apoptotic pathway too in this process. Our finding has undoubtedly led to an increased understanding of EAEC pathogenesis, which may be helpful to develop an improved strategy to combat the infection.
Downregulation ofLet-7miRNA promotes Tc17 differentiation and emphysema via de-repression of RORγt
Authors: Erice Phillip A. , Huang Xinyan , Seasock Matthew J. , Robertson Matthew J. , Tung Hui-Ying , Perez-Negron Melissa A. , Lotlikar Shivani L. , Corry David B , Kheradmand Farrah , Rodriguez Antony
Published: October 2023

Environmental air irritants including nanosized carbon black (nCB) can drive systemic inflammation, promoting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema development. Thelet-7family of miRNAs is associated with IL-17-driven T cell inflammation, a canonical signature of lung inflammation. Recent evidence suggests thelet-7family is downregulated in patients with COPD, however, whether this repression conveys a functional consequence on emphysema pathology has not been elucidated. Here we show that overall expression of thelet-7miRNA clusters,let-7b/let-7c2andlet-7a1/let-7f1/let-7d, are reduced in the lungs and T cells of smokers with emphysema as well as in mice with cigarette smoke (CS)- or nCB-elicited emphysema. We demonstrate that loss of thelet-7b/let-7c2-cluster in T cells predisposed mice to exaggerated CS- or nCB-elicited emphysema. Furthermore, ablation of thelet-7b/let-7c2-cluster enhanced CD8+IL17a+T cells (Tc17) formation in emphysema development in mice. Additionally, transgenic mice overexpressinglet-7in T cells are resistant to Tc17 and CD4+IL17a+T cells (Th17) development when exposed to nCB. Mechanistically, our findings reveal the master regulator of Tc17/Th17 differentiation, RAR-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt), as a direct target oflet-7miRNA in T cells. Overall, our findings shed light on thelet-7/RORγt axis withlet-7acting as a molecular brake in the generation of Tc17 cells and suggests a novel therapeutic approach for tempering the augmented IL-17-mediated response in emphysema.
RhoGDI phosphorylation by PKC regulates its interaction with death receptor p75NTRto gate axon growth and neuron survival pathways
Authors: Ramanujan Ajeena , Li Zhen , Lin Zhi , Ibáñez Carlos F.
Published: October 2023

Although transmembrane receptors engage multiple signaling pathways simultaneously, each pathway is typically investigated individually. How receptors juggle their interactions with different downstream effectors and the conditions under which distinct pathways are prioritized remains poorly understood. Here we show that the outcome of death receptor p75NTRsignaling is determined through competition of effectors for interaction with its intracellular domain, in turn dictated by the nature of the incoming ligand. While NGF induces release of RhoGDI through recruitment of RIP2, thus decreasing RhoA activity in favor of NFkB signaling, MAG induces PKC-mediated phosphorylation of the RhoGDI N-terminus, thus promoting its interaction with the juxtamembrane domain of p75NTR, disengaging RIP2, and enhancing RhoA activity in detriment of NF-kB. This results in growth cone collapse, stunted neurite outgrowth and apoptosis in cerebellar granule neurons. If presented simultaneously, MAG prevails over NGF. The NMR solution structure of the complex between the RhoGDI N-terminus and p75NTRjuxtamembrane domain reveals previously unknown structures of these proteins and clarifies the mechanism of p75NTRactivation. These results show how ligand-directed competition between RIP2 and RhoGDI for p75NTRengagement determine axon growth and neuron survival. Similar principles are likely at work in other receptors engaging multiple effectors and signaling pathways.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of poly[[tetraaqua(μ-1,3,4,7,8,10,12,13,16,17,19,22-dodecaazatetracyclo[8.8.4.13,17.18,12]tetracosane-5,6,14,15,20,21-hexaonato)iron(IV)dilithium] tetrahydrate]
Authors: Plutenko Maksym O. , Shova Sergiu , Pavlenko Vadim A. , Golenya Irina A. , Fritsky Igor O.
Published: October 2023

The title compound, [FeLi2(C12H12N12O6)(H2O)4]·4H2O, consists of iron complex anions, lithium cations and water molecules. The complex anion shows a clathrochelate topology. The coordination geometry of the FeIV centre is intermediate between a trigonal prism and a trigonal antiprism. In the crystal, the complex anions are connected through two Li cations into dimers, which are connected by Li—O bonds, forming infinite chains along the b-axis direction.
[(1,2,5,6-η)-Cycloocta-1,5-diene](1-ethyl-4-isopropyl-1,2,4-triazol-5-ylidene)(triphenylphosphane)iridium(I) tetrafluoridoborate dichloromethane sesquisolvate
Authors: Maynard Aaron , Gau Michael , Albert Daniel R. , Rajaseelan Edward
Published: October 2023

The synthesis and crystal structure of a new triazole-based N-heterocyclic carbene iridium(I) cationic complex with a tetrafluoridoborate counter-anion and solvating dichloromethane, [Ir(C8H12)(C7H13N3)(C18H15P)]BF4·1.5CH2Cl2, is reported. The IrI center of the cationic complex has a distorted square-planar conformation, formed by a bidentate cycloocta-1,5-diene (COD) ligand, an N-heterocyclic carbene, and a triphenylphosphane ligand. There are weak hydrogen-bonding interactions between C—H groupings of the iridium complex and F atoms of the [BF4]− counter-ions. The atoms of the COD ligand are disordered over two sets of sites in a 0.65:0.35 ratio and two of the F atoms of the anion are disordered over adjacent sites in a 0.6:0.4 ratio. One of the dichloromethane solvent molecules is disordered about an inversion center with 0.5 occupancy.
Technology as an enabler for securing tenure rights for the slum dwellers
Authors: Mukherjee Anindita , Gupta Ashish , Tiwari Piyush , Dhar Baisakhi Sarkar
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Achieving tenure security is a global challenge impacting cities of the global south. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role of technology-enabled solutions as an enabler for the tenure rights of slum dwellers.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we adopted a case study approach to analyze the use cases for technologies aiding India’s securitization of land tenure. The flagship state mission of Odisha, named the Jaga Mission, and that of Punjab, named BASERA – the Chief Minister’s Slum Development Program – were used as cases for this paper.

Findings

It was found that technologies like drone imagery and digital surveys fast-tracked the data collection and helped in mapping the slums with accuracy, mitigating human errors arising during measurement – a necessary condition for ensuring de jure tenure security. The adoption of a technology-based solution, along with a suitable policy and legal framework, has helped in the distribution of secure land titles to the slum dwellers in these states.

Originality/value

Odisha’s and Punjab’s journey in using technology to enable tenure security for its urban poor residents can serve as a model for the cities of the global south, dealing with the challenges of providing secure tenure and property rights.
How does management respond to stock price crashes?
Authors: Roy Suvra , Marshall Ben R. , Nguyen Hung T. , Visaltanachoti Nuttawat
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate (1) how managers respond to stock price crashes, (2) why they respond and (3) how their responses affect shareholders.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a panel regression with various firm-level controls and firm- and year-fixed effects. The sample is comprised of 101,532 firm-year observations with 11,727 unique firms from 1950 to 2019. Using mutual fund flow redemption pressure as an exogenous variable to stock price crashes, the paper provides further evidence of the causality of documented findings.

Findings

Management becomes more focused on improving transparency, raising investment efficiency, reducing agency conflicts and regaining the trust of shareholders by investing in social capital and employee welfare. These actions increase firm value. This study also suggests that management undertakes these actions out of concern for their tenure of employment.

Originality/value

The catalysts of stock price crashes are well documented, but much less is known about what happens following stock price crashes. This study provides more insights into the understanding of corporate crisis management practices following adverse events.
Dialectic critical realism in business marketing: dialectic customer portfolio management
Authors: Vanharanta Markus , Wong Phoebe
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to contribute to the field of customer portfolio management by proposing a novel approach rooted in dialectic critical realism (DCR). DCR, as an ontological theory, enables a fundamental reimagining of customer portfolio management as a dialectic process. The conceptualized dialectic portfolio management is motivated by the concept of “absence”, akin to Hegelian “antithesis”, which highlights limitations, problems and tensions in portfolio management. In essence, “absence” serves as a diagnostic tool that directs portfolio actions towards resolving problems by pursuing a more comprehensive “totality”, similar to the Hegelian notion of “synthesis”.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper theorizes DCR in business marketing and customer portfolio management.

Findings

DCR conceptualizes customer portfolios as relational structures characterized by omissions and tensions. These issues are addressed through a dialectic synthesis aimed at achieving a more comprehensive “totality”. Consequently, DCR guides portfolio management to continually re-think the connections and distinctions that define a portfolio within its network context. This dialectic process is facilitated by a novel vocabulary that enhances the understanding of network and portfolio relations, incorporating concepts such as “intrapermeations”, “existential constitutions”, “intra-connections” and “intensive” and “extensive” portfolio practices.

Originality/value

This study aims to foster a fresh and process-oriented perspective on portfolio management, drawing inspiration from the growing demand for enriched dialectic theorizing within the realm of business marketing. The adoption of a dialectic process orientation based on DCR revolutionizes the comprehension of portfolio management by fundamentally reimagining the underlying ontological assumptions that underpin the existing body of literature on customer portfolios. Moreover, DCR asserts that ethical considerations are inextricably linked to human experiences and associated practices, emphasizing ethics as an integral component of customer portfolio management.
Internal auditor's interpersonal trust building: the Israeli public sector
Authors: Eshet Yovav
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper investigate the antecedents of the public sector's senior management in interpersonal trust relationships involving sceptical internal audits in public services administrations. This is fundamental for a positive audit, as it affects the auditing relationship and assures a sound public administration.

Design/methodology/approach

The author surveyed 261 senior management from 24 Israel's local authorities (about 30%), representing large, medium and small administrations in Israel's North District.

Findings

The results indicate that senior management's antecedents to trust sceptically minded internal audits are positive for audit knowledge sharing. Findings also reveal that the internal auditor's ability, integrity and benevolence significantly impact senior management's trust. Whereas open communication does not significantly affect the senior management's propensity to trust, its satisfaction with its internal auditor fosters positive trust and support.

Practical implications

Understanding the antecedents of the senior public manager on internal audit benefits the audit outcomes. Albeit audit professional scepticism's interpersonal trust relationship with senior public manager influences the audit. Audits efficiently related to organisational culture and outcomes.

Originality/value

A new practical model of senior management trust antecedents is presented for a more effective auditing system and public administration. The model is original, as no other empirical studies have yet dealt with senior management's trust in internal audits in the public sector.
Productive or non-productive? Negative performance feedback and firms' cost behaviors
Authors: Tian Meng , Hu Chuan
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influences of negative performance feedback on firms' cost behaviors including productive behaviors (i.e. R&D behaviors) and non-productive behaviors (i.e. selling behaviors and business entertainment behaviors), as well as to investigate the roles of ownership types and marketization.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of Chinese manufacturing firms from 2007 to 2018 is analyzed employing multiple regression models.

Findings

The results show that negative performance feedback has a positive but not significant effect on R&D behaviors, while its effect on selling behaviors is significantly positive. Meanwhile, there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between negative performance feedback and business entertainment behaviors. Furthermore, when facing a performance dilemma, state-owned enterprises tend to adjust selling behaviors, while nonstate-owned enterprises pay more attention to business entertainment behaviors. In terms of marketization, the firms in high-marketization regions are more likely to adjust their R&D, selling and business entertainment behaviors, while the firms in low-marketization regions are difficult to adjust these cost behaviors.

Practical implications

This study explores the role of negative performance feedback in firms' cost behaviors and provides empirical evidence about the differentiated influences regarding ownership types and marketization.

Originality/value

Integrating insights from existing studies and introducing the behavioral theory of the firm and prospect theory, this study proposes a more inclusive framework that addresses the impacts of negative performance feedback on firms' cost behaviors. This paper deepens the understanding of firms' decision behaviors in the dilemma of performance shortfall.
Complex infrastructure systems analysis and management: the theory of faults
Authors: Yonat Niv , Isaac Shabtai , Shohet Igal M.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to provide a theoretical and practical theory and application that provides understanding and means to manage complex infrastructures.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, complexity, nonlinear, noncontinuous effects and aleatoric and data unknowns are bypassed by directly addressing systems' responses. Graph theory, statistics and digital signal processing (DSP) tools are applied within a theoretical framework of the theory of faults (ToF). Motivational complex infrastructure systems (CISs) are difficult to model. Data are often missing or erroneous, changes are not well documented and processes are not well understood. On top of it, under complexity, stalwart analytical tools have limited predictive power. The aleatoric risk, such as rain and risk cascading from interconnected infrastructures, is unpredictable. Mitigation, response and recovery efforts are adversely affected.

Findings

The theory and application are presented and demonstrated by a step-by-step development of an application to a municipal drainage system. A database of faults is analyzed to produce system statistics, spatio-temporal morphology, behavior and traits. The gained understanding is compared to the physical system's design and to its modus operandi. Implications for design and maintenance are inferred; DSP tools to manage the system in real time are developed.

Research limitations/implications

Sociological systems are interest driven. Some events are intentionally created and directed to the benefit and detriment of the opposing parties in a project. Those events may be explained and possibly predicted by understanding power plays, not power functions. For those events, sociological game theories provide better explanatory value than mathematical gain theories.

Practical implications

The theory provides a thematic network for modeling and resolving aleatoric uncertainty in engineering and sociological systems. The framework may be elaborated to fields such as energy, healthcare and critical infrastructure.

Social implications

ToF provides a framework for the modeling and prediction of faults generated by inherent aleatoric uncertainties in social and technological systems. Therefore, the framework and theory lay the basis for automated monitoring and control of aleatoric uncertainties such as mechanical failures and human errors and the development of mitigation systems.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research is in the provision of an explicatory theory and a management paradigm for complex systems. This theory is applicable to a wide variety of fields from facilities and construction project management to maintenance and from academic studies to commercial use.
Return Fantasies: Martial Masculinity, Misogyny and Homosocial Bonding in the Aftermath of Second World War
Authors: Garton Stephen
Published: October 2023

This article explores male popular culture in Australia in the mid‐1940s, particularly men's magazines of the period, to illuminate aspects of the psycho‐sexual dimensions of Australian veterans returning to civil society. The sexual landscape of Australian society had undergone considerable transformation, especially through an increasing sexualisation of popular culture in the 1920s and 1930s. This provided a context for considerable sexual anxiety and tension, especially in the context of numerous stories of Australian women consorting with American servicemen during the war. Men's popular culture, especially short fiction, where more lurid fantasies could play out, often depicted women as sexually voracious and duplicitous. Many of the short stories involved love triangles where the men were betrayed by women. But the resolution of these rivalries often pathologised women while preserving the male bonds of war. Homosocial bonds were a bulwark in the troubled transition from war to peace.
‘BEST FOR FOODIES’: Food, Digital Media and Planetary Gentrification
Authors: Joassart‐Marcelli Pascale , Bosco Fernando J.
Published: October 2023

Leisure activities, including place‐based food experiences, have become central to defining urban identities and branding places. Mobile and affluent urbanites’ search for authentic and cosmopolitan experiences is increasingly guided by corporate digital media such as apps and websites that direct them to previously ignored working‐class, ethnic and immigrant neighborhoods, which are being discursively and materially reconfigured to meet their needs, in turn causing the displacement of long‐time residents. We examine the relationship between food and gentrification through the lens of digital media, suggesting that they play an important role in shaping urban experiences and cities. Specifically, we investigate narratives produced by popular digital food media, not least websites and apps providing restaurant ratings and reviews, and their relationship to ongoing patterns of gentrification in Buenos Aires, Los Angeles and Paris. Using mixed methods that combine census data with ‘hybrid fieldwork’ in online and offline foodscapes, we identify some spatial patterns and key characteristics of food‐driven gentrification, highlighting the aestheticization of everyday life and its significance in encouraging and legitimizing planetary gentrification.
Matrix metalloproteinase 2 degrades collagen I to regulate ovarian development by association with an insulin‐like peptide
Authors: Wei Yi , Zhou Xiao‐Lin , Chen Peng , Liu Tai‐Hang , Lu Cheng , Pan Min‐Hui
Published: October 2023

The ovary generally undergoes tissue remodeling during larval to pupal transition, which includes membrane degeneration and ovariole growth. At the same time, the hormones produced by insects significantly change during metamorphosis. However, the regulatory mechanism for ovarian development and hormones is not fully understood in insects. Herein, we found that matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) was highly expressed in the ovarian capsules and ovarioles, and the development was abnormal after knocking out MMP2 in Bombyx mori. The process of abnormal degradation of collagen I due to MMP2 deletion, which resulted in abnormal development of ovarioles and eggs, was analyzed in detail. The proteomics of ovaries in the MMP2‐knock out and wild type strains showed a critically significant difference in the expression of a protein, insulin‐like peptide (ILP). Additional analysis revealed significant alteration of ILP during ovarian development, and abnormal expression of ILP significantly affected ovarian development in vivo and MMP2 expression in vitro and in vivo. These results showed that MMP2 regulation of ovarian tissue remodeling is closely related to ILP expression. Our study provides new insights into the regulatory mechanism of MMP2 and ovarian development in B. mori.
Correlation of vital sign centiles with in‐hospital outcomes among adults encountered by emergency medical services
Authors: Ramgopal Sriram , Sepanski Robert J. , Crowe Remle P. , Okubo Masashi , Callaway Clifton W. , Martin‐Gill Christian
Published: October 2023

Background

Vital signs are a critical component of the prehospital assessment. Prior work has suggested that vital signs may vary in their distribution by age. These differences in vital signs may have implications on in‐hospital outcomes or be utilized within prediction models. We sought to (1) identify empirically derived (unadjusted) cut points for vital signs for adult patients encountered by emergency medical services (EMS), (2) evaluate differences in age‐adjusted cutoffs for vital signs in this population, and (3) evaluate unadjusted and age‐adjusted vital signs measures with in‐hospital outcomes.

Methods

We used two multiagency EMS data sets to derive (National EMS Information System from 2018) and assess agreement (ESO, Inc., from 2019 to 2021) of vital signs cutoffs among adult EMS encounters. We compared unadjusted to age‐adjusted cutoffs. For encounters within the ESO sample that had in‐hospital data, we compared the association of unadjusted cutoffs and age‐adjusted cutoffs with hospitalization and in‐hospital mortality.

Results

We included 13,405,858 and 18,682,684 encounters in the derivation and validation samples, respectively. Both extremely high and extremely low vital signs demonstrated stepwise increases in admission and in‐hospital mortality. When evaluating age‐based centiles with vital signs, a gradual decline was noted at all extremes of heart rate (HR) with increasing age. Extremes of systolic blood pressure at upper and lower margins were greater in older age groups relative to younger age groups. Respiratory rate (RR) cut points were similar for all adult age groups. Compared to unadjusted vital signs, age‐adjusted vital signs had slightly increased accuracy for HR and RR but lower accuracy for SBP for outcomes of mortality and hospitalization.

Conclusions

We describe cut points for vital signs for adults in the out‐of‐hospital setting that are associated with both mortality and hospitalization. While we found age‐based differences in vital signs cutoffs, this adjustment only slightly improved model performance for in‐hospital outcomes.
An indel introduced by Neanderthal introgression, rs3835124:ATTTATT > ATT, might contribute to prostate cancer risk by regulating PDK1 expression
Authors: Chen Ying , Yu Xin‐Yi , Xu Shuang‐Jia , Shi Xiao‐Qian , Zhang Xin‐Xin , Sun Chang
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancer types in males and rs12621278:A > G has been suggested to be associated with this disease by previous genome‐wide association studies. One thousand genomes project data analysis indicated that rs12621278:A > G is within two long‐core haplotypes. However, the origin, causal variant(s), and molecular function of these haplotypes were remaining unclear.

Materials and Methods

Population genetics analysis and functional genomics work was performed for this locus.

Results

Phylogeny analysis verified that the rare haplotype is derived from Neanderthal introgression. Genome annotation suggested that three genetic variants in the core haplotypes, rs116108611:G > A, rs139972066:AAAAAAAA > AAAAAAAAA, and rs3835124:ATTTATT > ATT, are located in functional regions. Luciferase assay indicated that rs139972066:AAAAAAAA > AAAAAAAAA and rs116108611:G > A are not able to alter ITGA6 (integrin alpha 6) and ITGA6 antisense RNA 1 expression, respectively. In contrast, rs3835124:ATTTATT > ATT can significantly influence PDK1 (pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1) expression, which was verified by expression quantitative trait locus analysis. This genetic variant can alter transcription factor cut like homeobox 1 interaction efficiency. The introgressed haplotype was observed to be subject to positive selection in East Asian populations. The molecular function of the haplotype suggested that Neanderthal should be with lower PDK1 expression and further different energy homeostasis from modern human.

Conclusion

This study provided new insight into the contribution of Neanderthal introgression to human phenotypes.
Body weight increase and metabolic derangements after tenofovir disoproxil fumarate switch to tenofovir alafenamide in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Cheng Pin‐Nan , Feng I‐Cher , Chen Jyh‐Jou , Kuo Hsing‐Tao , Lee Pei‐Lun , Yu Ming‐Lung , Chiu Yen‐Cheng , Chiu Hung‐Chih , Chien Shih‐Chieh , Chen Pei‐Jer , Liu Chun‐Jen
Published: October 2023

Background

Lipid‐lowering effect was observed during treatment with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) for chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, the metabolic features in patients switching from TDF to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) remain unclear.

Aims

To compare the impacts of switching from TDF to TAF or from entecavir to TAF on body weight and metabolic features in patients with CHB.

Methods

This was a multi‐centre, prospective, observational study in patients with CHB on TDF or entecavir who switched to TAF. Baseline characteristics, lipid profile and sugar profile were determined. This study received IRB approval from each hospital.

Results

We enrolled 177 patients on TDF (99) or entecavir (78) and followed them for 48 weeks after the switch to TAF. At baseline, TDF‐experienced patients had lower serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol than entecavir‐experienced patients. The switch from TDF to TAF significantly increased body weight, triglyceride, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, fasting glucose, glycaemic haemoglobin, insulin and insulin resistance. The switch from entecavir to TAF did not affect these measures. There was no significant difference in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk scores between groups.

Conclusions

The switch from TDF to TAF was associated with weight gain, derangements of lipid profile, and increased insulin resistance in patients with CHB. Long‐term effects on these metabolic features need further investigation.
Exploring the complexities of illness identity and symptom management in seeking a diagnostic label of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): An inductive approach
Authors: Knoop Iris , Gu Stephanie , Fareghzadeh Shamim , Jones Annie S. K. , Gall Nicholas , Moss‐Morris Rona
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a debilitating and under‐recognized condition of the autonomic nervous system. This study applied Leventhal's Common‐Sense Model of Illness Representations to explore the journey to a diagnosis of POTS and to understand its relevance to poorly understood conditions which have common comorbidities.

Design

An inductive qualitative approach was used to explore the processes by which patients formulate explanations and management of symptoms within the search for a diagnostic label and to investigate illness identity in the context of existing diagnoses or multimorbidity.

Methods

Participants (n = 29) for this nested qualitative study were recruited from a larger longitudinal study of people who had been newly referred to a specialist POTS service. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted via video call. Three researchers coded and analysed data using Reflexive Thematic Analysis and elements of Grounded Theory.

Results

The analysis resulted in three overarching themes: ‘Seeking physiological coherence and validation’, ‘Individual persistence’, and ‘Navigating the cumulative burden’. ‘Accessibility and disparities of health care’ was noted as a contextual factor. Receiving a POTS diagnosis was regarded by participants as providing legitimacy and increased access to treatment. Overall, delays in the diagnostic journey and the lack of a clear diagnosis impacted negatively on patients through increased uncertainty and a lack of clear guidance on how to manage symptoms. Findings also suggested there were great complexities in assigning symptoms to labels in the context of multimorbidity.

Conclusions

Participants' stories highlighted the urgent need for better recognition of POTS so that the self‐regulatory process can be initiated from the early stages of symptom detection.
Experiences of relatives caring for psychiatric patients in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana
Authors: Antonio Gideon , Kwakye Isaac Nyarko , Essel Cynthia
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The study aimed at examining the lived experiences of relatives caring for family members with mental illness in Ghana.

Methods

Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted to explore caregivers' in‐depth experiences. Fifteen caregivers were purposefully selected from four hospitals within the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, and they were engaged in face‐to‐face interview sessions through the semi‐structured guided interviews. Interviews were transcribed into text formats and analysed using the IPA approach.

Results

Three superordinate themes and their respective sub‐themes were identified. Theme 1: Being with the mentally ill (time consuming; financial burden; healer shopping); Theme 2: Psychosocial effect (stigmatization; stress and depression; changes in social/work life); Theme3: Coping resources (prayers/spirituality; psychological capital – ignoring, self‐encouragement, acceptance, routinization; social/family support; reading).

Conclusion

It was recommended that healthcare professionals ought to prepare family members for the emotional challenges by providing them with constant therapeutic service to help reduce their emotional strain associated with the burden of care. Public education should be intensified for people to understand the need for accepting people with mental illness in order to reduce the issue of stigmatization. Again, government should institute policies through its agencies (Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service) to assist the caregivers in the discharge of responsibilities. This could take the form of reducing cost of drugs, and establishing community mental health care to provide immediate support.
Therapeutic targets of fibrosis: Translational advances and current challenges
Authors: De Blasio Miles J. , Ohlstein Eliot H. , Ritchie Rebecca H.
Published: October 2023

In a physiological context, the extracellular matrix (ECM) provides an important scaffold for organs. Dysregulation of ECM in disease conditions, characterised by excess deposition of connective tissue and extracellular matrix in response to a pathological insult, is a key driver of disease progression in multiple organs. The resultant fibrosis is predominantly an irreversible process and directly contributes to, and exacerbates, dysfunction of an affected organ. This is particularly paramount in the kidney, liver, heart and lung. A hybrid Joint Meeting of NC‐IUPHAR and British Pharmacological Society was held in Paris and via a webinar in November 2020, when two successive sessions were devoted to translational advances in fibrosis as a therapeutic target. On the upsurge of response to these sessions, the concept of a special themed issue on this topic emerged, and is entitled Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. In this special issue, we seek to provide an up‐to‐date account of the diverse molecular mechanisms and causal role that fibrosis plays in disease progression (contributing to, and exacerbating, dysfunction of affected organs). Recent developments in the understanding of molecular targets involved in fibrosis, and how their actions can be manipulated therapeutically, are included.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc
Integrating animal tracking datasets at a continental scale for mapping Eurasian lynx habitat
Authors: Oeser Julian , Heurich Marco , Kramer‐Schadt Stephanie , Mattisson Jenny , Krofel Miha , Krojerová‐Prokešová Jarmila , Zimmermann Fridolin , Anders Ole , Andrén Henrik , Bagrade Guna , Belotti Elisa , Breitenmoser‐Würsten Christine , Bufka Luděk , Černe Rok , Drouet‐Hoguet Nolwenn , Duľa Martin , Fuxjäger Christian , Gomerčić Tomislav , Jędrzejewski Włodzimierz , Kont Raido , Koubek Petr , Kowalczyk Rafał , Kusak Josip , Kubala Jakub , Kutal Miroslav , Linnell John D. C. , Molinari‐Jobin Anja , Männil Peep , Middelhoff Tomma Lilli , Odden John , Okarma Henryk , Oliveira Teresa , Pagon Nives , Persson Jens , Remm Jaanus , Schmidt Krzysztof , Signer Sven , Tám Branislav , Vogt Kristina , Kuemmerle Tobias
Published: October 2023

Aim

The increasing availability of animal tracking datasets collected across many sites provides new opportunities to move beyond local assessments to enable detailed and consistent habitat mapping at biogeographical scales. However, integrating wildlife datasets across large areas and study sites is challenging, as species' varying responses to different environmental contexts must be reconciled. Here, we compare approaches for large‐area habitat mapping and assess available habitat for a recolonizing large carnivore, the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx).

Location

Europe.

Methods

We use a continental‐scale animal tracking database (450 individuals from 14 study sites) to systematically assess modelling approaches, comparing (1) global strategies that pool all data for training versus building local, site‐specific models and combining them, (2) different approaches for incorporating regional variation in habitat selection and (3) different modelling algorithms, testing nonlinear mixed effects models as well as machine‐learning algorithms.

Results

Testing models on training sites and simulating model transfers, global and local modelling strategies achieved overall similar predictive performance. Model performance was the highest using flexible machine‐learning algorithms and when incorporating variation in habitat selection as a function of environmental variation. Our best‐performing model used a weighted combination of local, site‐specific habitat models. Our habitat maps identified large areas of suitable, but currently unoccupied lynx habitat, with many of the most suitable unoccupied areas located in regions that could foster connectivity between currently isolated populations.

Main Conclusions

We demonstrate that global and local modelling strategies can achieve robust habitat models at the continental scale and that considering regional variation in habitat selection improves broad‐scale habitat mapping. More generally, we highlight the promise of large wildlife tracking databases for large‐area habitat mapping. Our maps provide the first high‐resolution, yet continental assessment of lynx habitat across Europe, providing a consistent basis for conservation planning for restoring the species within its former range.
Childhood adversity and the risk of gestational diabetes: A population‐based cohort study of nulliparous pregnant women
Authors: Davies Megan , van Houten Charlotte S. , Bengtsson Jessica , Elsenburg Leonie K. , Kragelund Nielsen Karoline , Andersen Gregers S. , Damm Peter , Rod Naja H.
Published: October 2023

Aims

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common pregnancy complications, and though it may be linked to childhood adversity, the effect of different types of adversity remains unclear. Childhood adversity is linked to a younger maternal age, which may hide the overall impact of adversity on GDM risk. We therefore aimed to explore the association between different types of childhood adversity and GDM while accounting for the potential impact of maternal age.

Methods

We used Danish nation‐wide register data, including 208,207 women giving birth for the first time from 2004 to 2018. Five adversity groups were used to examine the effect of childhood adversity on GDM risk: (1) low (referent group), (2) early life material deprivation, (3) persistent deprivation, (4) loss or threat of loss within the family and (5) high adversity.

Results

5375 women were diagnosed with GDM in the study population (2.6% absolute risk). Compared to women who experienced low adversity, the other adversity groups had a higher GDM risk (absolute difference [%]) directly; early material deprivation (0.64% [95% CI 0.44; 0.84]), persistent deprivation (0.63% [0.41; 0.86]), loss or threat of loss (0.73% [0.42; 1.05]) and high adversity (0.80% [0.32; 1.27]). The indirect effect of maternal age attenuated the total effect of childhood adversity on GDM by an absolute difference of 0.25%–0.46%.

Conclusions

Experiencing childhood adversity to any extent is associated with a higher risk of GDM. Interventions aimed at preventing childhood adversity may have a positive effect in reducing GDM burden and the associated health risks.
Calibrating the countercyclical capital buffer using AUROCs
Authors: Bologna Pierluigi , Galardo Maddalena
Published: October 2023

While the setting of the countercyclical capital buffer (CCyB) is not an automatic decision, insights from indicators, such as the credit‐to‐GDP gap, are a starting point to inform the policy decision. This paper identifies an optimal rule to map the credit‐to‐GDP gap to the guide to set the CCyB. We use Italian data and follow two alternative procedures. First, we apply the criteria suggested by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS). Then we depart from the BCBS approach by proposing a procedure based on the maximization of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. We also explore whether the CCyB, had it been in place, would have mitigated the repercussions of the Great Financial Crisis on the Italian banking system. Based on a stylized exercise, the full release of the CCyB at the outbreak of the crisis would have freed around €40 billion of capital, a value close to the total amount of banks' credit provisions during the 3 following years.
In vivo characterization of laser‐assisted delivery of hyaluronic acid using multiphoton fluorescence lifetime imaging
Authors: Nguyen Lynhda , Mess Christian , Schneider Stefan W. , Huck Volker , Herberger Katharina
Published: October 2023

Laser‐assisted drug delivery (LADD) is a treatment method to enhance the penetration of pharmaceuticals through the skin. The aim of the present study is to track hyaluronic acid (HA) and analyse its effect on human skin in vivo after ablative fractional laser (AFL) treatment. Healthy male and female subjects were recruited. Four areas were marked on their forearms of each volunteer, and each area was assigned to one of the following treatment options: AFL + HA, AFL only, HA only or untreated control. A carbon dioxide laser was used for the AFL treatment. Follow‐up measurements were scheduled 30 min and 30 days after treatment using multiphoton tomography equipped with fluorescence lifetime imaging (MPT‐FLIM). A total of 11 subjects completed the study. By detecting fluorescence lifetimes, the HA and the anaesthetic ointment were clearly distinguishable from surrounding tissue. After AFL treatment, HA could be visualized in all epidermal and upper dermal layers. In contrast, HA in intact skin was only detected in the superficial layers at distinctly lower levels. The applied HA gel seemed to have beneficial properties for the wound healing process after laser treatment. LADD has proven to be a fast and effective method to increase HA uptake into the skin, allowing for improved hydration and skin rejuvenation over time. Furthermore, LADD could be a beneficial treatment option in laser resurfacing. MPT‐FLIM proved to be an appropriate diagnostic tool for drug delivery tracking and monitoring of treatment response for individualized therapy adjustment.
Soft computing approaches for prediction of specific heat capacity of hybrid nanofluids
Authors: Mathur Priya , Gupta Amit Kumar , Panwar Deepak , Sharma Tarun Kumar
Published: October 2023

Nanofluids are thermoelectric substance with a greater thermal transmission effectiveness than traditional thermal fluids. Nanofluid's specific heat capacity (SHC) is a crucial thermophysical parameter since it controls the fluid's heat transfer coefficient. Surprisingly few research investigations have been done on the prognostic modelling of the specific heat capacity of fusion nanofluids, despite the fact that numerous experiments have been conducted on the heat transfer capacitance of blended nanofluids. This study focuses on the use of algorithms based on machine learning procedures (MLP) to estimate the SHC of blended nanofluids. Numerous numbers of hybrid nanofluids are investigated in this investigation. Total of 984 samples of hybrid nanofluids for specific heat capacity has been collected from nine experimental research papers. Various MLP techniques were utilized in this analysis, including extreme boost gradient boost regression (XGB), support vector regression augmented with a genetic algorithm (support vector regression [SVR]‐genetic algorithm [GA]), grid search optimized based gradient boost regression algorithm (GBR) (GBR‐GSO), and voting ensemble procedure (VE). The obtained correlation coefficients of the SVR‐GA, XGB, VE and GBR‐GSO models for the testing dataset are 98.43%, 96.29%, 94.4% and 96.55% respectively. The SVR‐GA model showed a better predictive accuracy relative to other ML models. This SVR‐GA anticipated model could be used for quick and reliable prediction of the SHC of blended nanofluids which reduces the burden associated with experimental measurement possible future work includes applying a machine‐learning strategy to the problem of determining the diffusivity of hybrid nanofluids.
Home virtuality and the platformized life of Chinese international students in the United Kingdom
Authors: He Zhongzhi , Chan Yuk Wah
Published: October 2023

This article examines a nascent phenomenon in which a cluster of digital platforms mimicking popular Chinese apps has popped up in various cities in the United Kingdom (UK). They have been eagerly adopted by a strong clientele composed mainly of Chinese international students and young working migrants from China. Drawing on data we gathered from the British city of Manchester, one of the most popular destinations for Chinese international students, we propose the concept ofhome virtualityto illustrate how Chinese student migrants’ frequent surfing of these Chinese‐style digital platforms has created a ‘virtual home’ that is quite reminiscent of the platformized lifestyle in China, and that thus offers them a sense of connection to home. We argue that this ‘home virtuality’ does not only imply a virtual connection but is also a home environment materialized through the familiar app services of the new Chinese platform businesses in the UK.
Longitudinal changes in body fat and metabolic complications in young people with perinatally acquired HIV
Authors: Dirajlal‐Fargo Sahera , Jacobson Denise L. , Yu Wendy , Mirza Ayesha , Geffner Mitchell E. , Mccomsey Grace A. , Jao Jennifer ,   for the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study (PHACS)
Published: October 2023

Background

The role of body fat on metabolic complications remains poorly understood in young people living with perinatally acquired HIV (YPHIV).

Objective

Our objective was to assess the association of changes in adiposity over 2 years with metabolic outcomes in YPHIV.

Methods

The PHACS Adolescent Master Protocol (AMP) study enrolled YPHIV from 2007 to 2009 across 15 US sites, including Puerto Rico. We included YPHIV aged 7–19 years with body composition data assessed by whole‐body dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) at baseline and 2 years later. Metabolic outcomes included homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) and non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (non‐HDL‐C). We fitted linear regression models to assess the association of increase in body fat over 2 years with metabolic outcomes at years 2 and 3.

Results

In all, 232 participants had a second DXA and either HOMA‐IR or non‐HDL‐C measured at year 2. Participant characteristics at the first DXA were: age 12 years (9–14) [median (Q1–Q3)], 69% Black, and median CD4 count 714 cells/μL; 70% with HIV RNA <400 copies/mL. In adjusted analyses for every 1% increase in body fat from baseline to year 2, HOMA‐IR was higher by 1.03‐fold at year 3 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.05). We observed that for every 1% increase in body fat from baseline to year 2, non‐HDL‐C was 0.72 mg/dL higher at year 2 (95% CI: −0.04–1.49) and 0.81 mg/dL higher at year 3 (95% CI: −0.05–1.66).

Conclusions

Increases in adiposity over time may lead to downstream decreased insulin sensitivity and dyslipidaemia in YPHIV.