bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It’s not just a game: social networks, isolation and mental health in online gamers
Authors: Prochnow Tyler , Patterson Megan S.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Online gaming has emerged as a popular activity providing a social outlet for millions. However, implications of online game networks for mental health remain disputed. Concepts of bridging social capital and bonding social capital may help characterize protective factors within social networks. This study aims to examine the associations between social capital derived from online versus in-person networks and mental health indicators among gamers.

Design/methodology/approach

Online gamers (n = 301) completed an online survey assessing their social networks (both in-person and through online gaming) and mental health indicators (depressive symptoms, anxiety, social isolation, perceived social support). Social network analysis was used to analyze bridging (network size, effective size, heterogeneity, weak ties) and bonding (closeness, frequent contact, confiding, connection quality) social capital. Separate linear regression models evaluated associations between bridging and bonding social capital for both online and in-person networks and depressive symptoms, anxiety, social support and social isolation.

Findings

In-person network characteristics showed the strongest associations with mental health outcomes. Greater average closeness and frequent confiding in the in-person network predicted lower isolation and fewer depressive symptoms. More diverse relationship types also correlated with lower depression. For online networks, closeness and confiding ties associated only with less isolation and greater support, not depressive symptoms, or anxiety.

Originality/value

While online gaming networks provide some degree of social support, in-person social capital exhibited stronger associations with mental health. This reinforces the importance of face-to-face relationships for emotional well-being. Findings suggest helping gamers cultivate close bonds offline. However, online connections still matter and should not be discounted.
Factors influencing user experience in AI chat systems – a satisfaction study based on factor analysis and linear regression
Authors: Xing JiaMan , Jiang Qianling
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Since the introduction of the outstanding web AI chat system, ChatGPT, it has caused a significant impact in both academia and the business world. Many studies have started to explore its potential applications in various fields. However, there is a lack of research from the perspective of user experience. To fill this theoretical gap and provide a theoretical basis for the operation and design of related services, this study plans to develop a set of evaluation scales for AI chat system user experience and explore the relationship between various factors and user satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained 41 evaluation indicators through literature review and user research. Subsequently, these indicators were used as questionnaire items, combined with satisfaction metrics. A total of 515 questionnaires were distributed, and factor analysis and linear regression were employed to determine the specific elements influencing user experience and the user satisfaction model.

Findings

This study found that the factors influencing user experience are usefulness, accuracy, logical inference, interactivity, growth, anthropomorphism, convenience, credibility, ease of use, creativity, and security. Among these factors, only accuracy, anthropomorphism, creativity, and security indirectly influence satisfaction through usefulness, while the rest of the factors have a direct positive impact on user satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study provides constructive suggestions for the design and operation of related services and serves as a reference for future theoretical research in this area.
An evaluation of the influence of budgeting process on budget performance in Malaysia
Authors: Khoo Su Voon , Rahman Nur Hairani A. , Kamil Nurul Liyana M.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the influence of budgeting process elements (budget participation, preparation, implementation and evaluation) on budget performance of government.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was administered among budget officers from government agencies, departments, and units in Malaysia. Descriptive and regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between the budgeting process and budget performance.

Findings

The findings revealed the significant influence of the two predictors: (1) budget participation and (2) budget implementation and evaluation, on budget performance. Both have positive and significant impacts on budget performance. However, budget preparation appeared to have no significant relationship with budget performance, although there is positive effect.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence on the budgeting process factors that influence budget performance. The findings hopefully are of interest to government officials, especially frontline bureaucrats, who seek to ensure that budget performance meets expectations in Malaysia and other countries.
A study of political party affiliation as a means to enhance gender equality and women’s political participation in Kazakhstan
Authors: Nurbayev Zhaslan Yesseyevich , Sultangazy Gulmira Zholmagambetovna , Serikbayev Bauyrzhan Serikovich
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The article aims to identify the main mechanisms for promoting more Kazakhstani women participation in the legislative authorities based on a study of the competition of political parties in 2023.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing the structural-biographical method, the article investigates the ways of increasing women’s participation in the political life of Kazakhstan. This empirical study comprises a total of 18 biographies of women deputies / candidates on party lists who were elected to the legislative body. Content analysis was also conducted to investigate the pre-election programs of the political parties.

Findings

This study has identified that political party is the main resource for promoting gender equality and involving women in the decision-making process. All 18 women deputies of the Mazhilis, the lower house of parliament, are members of political parties. The findings show that women candidates without party affiliation were unable to get into representative body. The results of the election campaign of 2023 provided evidence for determining the gender order in the Kazakhstani political space. The party has become an effective channel for promoting women participations in the parliament of the country. By comparison, in single-mandate constituencies no woman was able to pass to the elected body.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature of gender equality and women’s political participation in Kazakhstan and may be relevant for other countries. It also has practical significance and policy implications for the government and political parties.
Developments and implications of tourism information technology: a horizon 2050 paper
Authors: Law Rob , Chen Sirong
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide an overview of the development of tourism information technology from a macro perspective of the chronological lineage of tourism and information technology from its origins to the present. This study also explores the progression of tourism information technology, its implications and its future directions based on a macro environmental analysis framework comprising political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study serves as a valuable connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application, combining the experiences of academic researchers and industry practitioners to thoroughly examine the progress and developments in tourism information technology. This research also identifies critical points in the domain to provide a unified and comprehensive explanation that aligns with the current research findings.

Findings

This research reveals the continuous timeline of tourism and information technology development. It discusses the origins, progress and interactions of tourism and information technology, revealing the structural political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal drivers of tourism information technology. This paper also presents suggestions for future agendas on the basis of a compendium and outlook of influences and implications for the domain.

Originality/value

Findings of this study set the foundation for a comprehensive analysis of the transformative influence of information technology on tourism and provide a contextual framework and insightful future agenda guide for subsequent academic and industry exploration and analysis of tourism information technology.
The capacity of sentinel species to detect changes in environmental conditions and ecosystem structure
Authors: Clark‐Wolf T. J. , Holt Katie A. , Johansson Erik , Nisi Anna C. , Rafiq Kasim , West Leigh , Boersma P. Dee , Hazen Elliott L. , Moore Sue E. , Abrahms Briana
Published: May 2024

A major obstacle to preventing and reversing biodiversity loss in the Anthropocene lies in the scarcity of tools and data for monitoring the health and trajectory of ecosystems. Sentinel species can provide insight into unobserved ecosystem change, but it is unclear how effective sentinels are due to the local, context‐dependent nature of past research.

Here, we present the first global evaluation on the effectiveness of sentinel species as indicators of ecosystem change. We conducted a meta‐analysis on 372 case studies to identify the ecological and methodological factors that correlate with the most effective sentinel species.

Sentinel performance did not vary consistently across taxa or system; instead, sentinels that were more directly linked to ecosystem change due to their trophic role as predators were more effective. In addition, sentinel responses that were measured on a shorter timescale were more effective at indicating ecosystem change.

Policy Implications. These results contribute to the longstanding debate on “what makes a good sentinel” and demonstrate the importance of both ecological and methodological factors when selecting sentinels to detect ecosystem change. For example, sentinel species which are trophically linked and measured on short timescales may be more effective for managers seeking to monitor ecosystem change than other species. By identifying effective traits for the use of sentinel species, scientists and policymakers will be able to develop rapid and adaptable management plans in response to global change.
Locus of Control, Social Capital and Transport Poverty1*
Authors: Awaworyi Churchill Sefa , Smyth Russell
Published: May 2024

Transport poverty is a major public policy issue in many countries. However, evidence on the factors that influence transport poverty is relatively scant. We contribute to the debate on the factors that influence transport poverty by being the first to examine how locus of control (LoC) influences transport poverty. Using 15 waves of panel data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Survey, we find evidence to suggest that LoC influences transport poverty. Specifically, we find that being more internal on LoC is associated with a lower probability of being transport poor. This finding is robust to a suite of sensitivity and robustness checks, including different constructs of transport poverty, alternative measures of LoC, the use of an out‐of‐sample supplementary dataset and different estimation approaches. We find that social capital is an important factor that mediates the relationship between LoC and transport poverty.
Intragenic MFSD8 duplication and histopathological findings in a rabbit with neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis
Authors: Christen Matthias , Gregor Katharina M. , Böttcher‐Künneke Ariane , Lombardo Mara S. , Baumgärtner Wolfgang , Jagannathan Vidhya , Puff Christina , Leeb Tosso
Published: May 2024

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCL) are among the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders of early life in humans. Disease‐causing variants have been described for 13 different NCL genes. In this study, a refined pathological characterization of a female rabbit with progressive neurological signs reminiscent of NCL was performed. Cytoplasmic pigment present in neurons was weakly positive with Sudan black B and autofluorescent. Immunohistology revealed astrogliosis, microgliosis and axonal degeneration. During the subsequent genetic investigation, the genome of the affected rabbit was sequenced and examined for private variants in NCL candidate genes. The analysis revealed a homozygous ~10.7 kb genomic duplication on chromosome 15 comprising parts of the MFSD8 gene, NC_013683.1:g.103,727,963_103,738,667dup. The duplication harbors two internal protein coding exons and is predicted to introduce a premature stop codon into the transcript, truncating ~50% of the wild‐type MFSD8 open reading frame encoding the major facilitator superfamily domain containing protein 8, XP_002717309.2:p.(Glu235Leufs*23). Biallelic loss‐of‐function variants in MFSD8 have been described to cause NCL7 in human patients, dogs and a single cat. The available clinical and pathological data, together with current knowledge about MFSD8 variants and their functional impact in other species, point to the MFSD8 duplication as a likely causative defect for the observed phenotype in the affected rabbit.
Morphometric and histopathological evaluation of modified Elnady's plastinated tissue compared to non‐plastinated tissue: Highlighting its relevance for teaching and research
Authors: Ahmed Osama , Gaballa Mohamed M. S. , Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Al‐Otaibi Aljohara M. , Choudhary Priyanka , El‐Shafey Anwar A.
Published: May 2024

The present study aims to evaluate the morphometric and histopathological properties of Modified Elnady's plastinated tissue after a period compared to non‐plastinated tissue. The plastination technique is utilized in research and teaching due to the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to formalin. The tissues and organs are permanently dried during plastination and can be used for further anatomical, histopathological and surgical educational purposes. This method involves drying tissue and allowing synthetic materials like glycerin to permeate it. The study compared non‐plastinated and plastinated tissue post‐plastination to determine if structural alterations differed from those linked to plastination. The study examined the histopathological examination of dogs' skin, muscles, liver, lung, and intestine using formalin‐fixed organs for paraffin embedding and previously plastinated organs for a plastinated group. The study examined non‐plastinated and plastinated tissues, their histological composition and biometric parameters revealing typical structures in the non‐plastinated group. Plasmodiumted tissues exhibited a compacted appearance, volume changes, nuclear clarity, and cytoplasmic hypereosinophilia, with statistical differences between the two groups. The study reveals that plastinated tissues, after 5 years of plastination, maintain their histological architecture well, with some exceptions. Plastinated tissues can be utilized in future microscopic and immunological studies and will be beneficial for teaching and research.
Men and Women of Australia: Administering Whitlam's Re‐Imagined Subject
Authors: Rundle Kristen
Published: May 2024

This contribution examines and reflects on a less‐studied area of life during the Whitlam era: the machinery through which the government's expansion of legislated social security entitlements was administered. The government's record in this area warrants attention not only to gain insight into the everyday mechanics of social security administration in the Whitlam era, but also for what we might learn today from how those who administered that programme were pushed to comprehend the significance of the administrative realm as a site of politics, political action, and political relationships in its own right.
Editorial: Hepatitis C virus eradication improves skeletal muscle mass
Authors: Tian Catherine Jia Lin , Ngu Jing Hieng
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Coelho et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17950 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18005
Specialized ovipositor sensilla of Cretaceous wasps (Insecta: Hymenoptera) possibly reveal a unique way of host detection
Authors: Wang Zhen , Vilhelmsen Lars , Rasnitsyn Alexandr P. , Viertler Alexandra , Shih Chungkun , Wen Shanshan , Yang Hongru , Wu Qiong , Zhang Yanjie , Ren Dong , Gao Taiping
Published: May 2024

Insects have evolved complex sensory systems that are important for feeding, defence and reproduction. Parasitoid wasps often spend much time and effort in searching for concealed hosts with the help of specialized sensilla. However, the early evolution of such behaviour and sensilla is poorly known. We describe two fossil female wasps, †Tichostephanus kachinensis sp. nov. and †Tichostephanus longus sp. nov., from mid‐Cretaceous Kachin amber. Phylogenetic analyses based on morphological data retrieved †Tichostephanus as deeply nested within Evanioidea and closely related to extant Gasteruptiidae and Evaniidae. Both of these Cretaceous wasps possess features, e.g. coronal tubercles and flexible ovipositor sheaths, that indicate that they might have laid eggs in wood where their larvae possibly parasitized insect larvae. They have a peculiar and unique ‘bottle brush’ of sensilla close to the apex of their ovipositor sheaths, which has not been observed in any extant parasitoid wasps. These sensilla comprise many regularly arranged plate‐shaped setae, attached in relatively large sockets and with rows of longitudinal ridges. Such specialized sensilla perhaps served to enhance the ability to detect hosts inside wood.
Granulomatous dermatitis in the context of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia: More than just reactive infiltrates. An illustrative case report with literature review
Authors: García‐García Mar , Elbaile Julia Jiménez , Azaceta Gemma , Lorda Marta , Prieto‐Torres Lucía
Published: May 2024

Traditionally, skin involvement in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) has been considered to be either specific (leukemia cutis) or non‐specific, with granulomatous dermatitis included in the latter group. More recently, the true nature of the myeloid cells present in the cutaneous infiltrates of this theoretically reactive dermatitis is being clarified with the use of new molecular techniques such as next‐generation sequencing. The same mutations in bone marrow (BM) myeloid neoplastic cells and in the cells of cutaneous infiltrates have been found. We present the case of a 77‐year‐old man who presented with spread and treatment‐resistant skin granulomatous lesions previous to the diagnosis of CMML. The same clonal mutations in SRSF2, IDH1, and RUNX1 were found in both skin and BM with resolution of the lesions after the initiation of azacytidine. In conclusion, we report an exceptional case in which specific granulomatous cutaneous lesions have preceded and allowed the earlier diagnosis of an underlying CMML and a review of all previous similar cases in the literature, including molecular alterations.
Novel clip closure technique for a large mucosal defect with anchor‐pronged clips after duodenal endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Shigeta Kohei , Kawata Noboru , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

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Effect of Pelargonium graveolens essential oil and cyantraniliprole on the feeding behavior of Bemisia tabaciMED
Authors: dos Santos Maria Clezia , Lima Ana Paula , Farias Adriano Pimentel , Santana Alisson Silva , Prado Maluta Nathalie , Lourenção André Luiz , Antônio Bernardes Wagner , Baldin Edson Luiz Lopes , Lopes João Roberto Spotti
Published: May 2024

The sweet potato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci MED (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), is highly harmful to solanaceous crops. The use of essential oils (EOs) is promising for the management of several insect pests, promoting both lethal and sublethal effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sublethal concentrations of Pelargonium graveolens L'Her (Geraniaceae) EO on the feeding behavior of B. tabaci MED on tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L., Solanaceae). For this research, the electrical penetration graph (EPG) technique was used to monitor whitefly stylet activities on their host plants. Two sets of plants were previously sprayed with two concentrations of EO (the LC25 and LC50, which were determined in a mortality test), a third set was treated with the insecticide cyantraniliprole, and a fourth set received a control treatment. Our results indicate that the insecticide cyantraniliprole and the EO could both reduce the stylet feeding activity of B. tabaci MED, as well as reduce the number and duration of phloem sap ingestion events (waveform E2), which could avoid or reduce the transmission of viruses. Thus, the application of sublethal concentrations of P. graveolens EO, as well as exposure to cyantraniliprole, negatively affected the feeding behavior of B. tabaci MED. This information may contribute to the management of this pest and the reduction of the incidence of viruses in tomato production.
Resistance training and combined resistance and aerobic training as a treatment of depression and anxiety symptoms in young people: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Marinelli Ryan , Parker Alexandra G. , Levinger Itamar , Bourke Matthew , Patten Rhiannon , Woessner Mary N.
Published: May 2024

Aim

To determine the treatment effect of resistance training in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in young people.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, PsychINFO, and PubMed for articles published in English from January 1980 to September 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCT) that included at least 4 weeks of resistance training, with participants aged 26 years or younger with clinically elevated anxiety and depression symptoms. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was used to calculate a pooled effect size of resistance training pre‐and post‐intervention compared to control groups. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias 2 (RoB 2) and Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria.

Results

Ten RCTs involving 376 participants (209 females and 127 males) across educational, clinical, and community based setting were eligible for inclusion in the analysis. Resistance training was associated with a significant reduction in depressive (Hedge's g = −1.06, 95% CI −1.61 to −0.51, p < .001) and anxiety (Hedge's g = −1.02, 95% CI −1.50 to −0.54, p < .001) symptoms. Substantial heterogeneity was observed in the analysis of depression symptoms (I2 = 79%) and anxiety symptoms (I2 = 66%). Six trials had a low risk of bias, four trials showed some concerns. The GRADE analysis demonstrated a high level of certainty for depressive symptoms and a moderate level for anxiety symptoms.

Conclusion

Resistance training is an effective intervention in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms in young people, delivered across a range of settings. Future trials exploring the effect resistance training interventions with long‐term follow up are warranted to understand the outcomes.
Gastrodin regulates the expression of renin‐angiotensin system–SIRT3 and proinflammatory mediators in reactive astrocytes via activated microglia
Authors: Zuo Han‐Jun , Ren Xue‐Qi , Shi Jin‐Sha , Shi Hao‐Long , Guo Kun , Wang Peng‐Xiang , Zhao Min , Li Juan‐Juan
Published: May 2024

Gastrodin, an anti‐inflammatory herbal agent, is known to suppress microglia activation. Here, we investigated whether it would exert a similar effect in reactive astrocytes and whether it might act through the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) and sirtuin 3 (SIRT3). Angiotensinogen (ATO), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE), angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) and type 2 (AT2) receptor and SIRT3 expression was detected in TNC‐1 astrocytes treated with BV‐2 microglia conditioned medium (CM) with or without gastrodin and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) pre‐treatment by RT‐PCR, immunofluorescence and western blotting analysis. Expression of C3 (A1 astrocyte marker), S100A10 (A2 astrocyte marker), proinflammatory cytokines and neurotrophic factors was then evaluated. The results showed a significant increase of ATO, ACE, AT1, SIRT3, C3, proinflammatory cytokines and neurotrophic factors expression in TNC‐1 astrocytes incubated in CM + LPS when compared with cells incubated in the CM, but AT2 and S100A10 expression was reduced. TNC‐1 astrocytes responded vigorously to BV‐2 CM treated with gastrodin + LPS as compared with the control. This was evident by the decreased expression of the abovementioned protein markers, except for AT2 and S100A10. Interestingly, SIRT3, IGF‐1 and BDNF expression was enhanced, suggesting that gastrodin inhibited the expression of RAS and proinflammatory mediators but promoted the expression of neurotrophic factors. And gastrodin regulated the phenotypic changes of astrocytes through AT1. Additionally, azilsartan (a specific inhibitor of AT1) inhibited the expression of C3 and S100A10, which remained unaffected in gastrodin and azilsartan combination treatment. These findings provide evidence that gastrodin may have a therapeutic effect via regulating RAS–SIRT3.
It's time to broaden what we consider a ‘blue carbon ecosystem’
Authors: James Kelly , Macreadie Peter I. , Burdett Heidi L. , Davies Ian , Kamenos Nicholas A.
Published: May 2024

Photoautotrophic marine ecosystems can lock up organic carbon in their biomass and the associated organic sediments they trap over millennia and are thus regarded as blue carbon ecosystems. Because of the ability of marine ecosystems to lock up organic carbon for millennia, blue carbon is receiving much attention within the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a nature‐based solution (NBS) to climate change, but classically still focuses on seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and tidal marshes. However, other coastal ecosystems could also be important for blue carbon storage, but remain largely neglected in both carbon cycling budgets and NBS strategic planning. Using a meta‐analysis of 253 research publications, we identify other coastal ecosystems—including mud flats, fjords, coralline algal (rhodolith) beds, and some components or coral reef systems—with a strong capacity to act as blue carbon sinks in certain situations. Features that promote blue carbon burial within these ‘non‐classical’ blue carbon ecosystems included: (1) balancing of carbon release by calcification via carbon uptake at the individual and ecosystem levels; (2) high rates of allochthonous organic carbon supply because of high particle trapping capacity; (3) high rates of carbon preservation and low remineralization rates; and (4) location in depositional environments. Some of these features are context‐dependent, meaning that these ecosystems were blue carbon sinks in some locations, but not others. Therefore, we provide a universal framework that can evaluate the likelihood of a given ecosystem to behave as a blue carbon sink for a given context. Overall, this paper seeks to encourage consideration of non‐classical blue carbon ecosystems within NBS strategies, allowing more complete blue carbon accounting.
Is celebration of New Year and other festivals worth their environmental impact?
Authors: Islam Md. Ziaul
Published: May 2024

The global tradition of fireworks at festivals causes significant environmental harm, including air, water, noise and light pollution, and impacts on human health. Diwali and the Chinese New Year fireworks can spike the Air Quality Index and elevate particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in capitals during and after celebrations. This commentary examines evidence for the detrimental effects of fireworks on the environment, human health and wildlife. Alternatives like drone displays, laser shows and eco‐friendly decorations are proposed, along with stricter regulations to curb firework impacts.
Characterising bioactive components of green‐lipped mussel via two extraction methods: in vitro assessment of antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects
Authors: Cardim Lessa Roberta , Ebrahimi Belgheis , Jury Jenn , Sewell Mary , Xie Yiqi , Li Yan , Lu Jun
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the benefits of green‐lipped mussels containing bioavailable PUFAs and inflammation‐modulating oil extracts. The goal is to find the best method for extracting lipids from two types of raw materials with strong immunomodulatory, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties using organic solvents and supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2) techniques. The lipid classes are analysed using TLC‐FID and GC–MS to detect FFAs, while DPPH determines antioxidant levels. The cytokine production of IL‐6 and TNF‐α in LPS‐stimulated mouse macrophages is measured using ELISA. The results show that while supercritical CO2 is the most effective method for extracting lipids, the content can vary depending on the source and technique. The major FFAs found include EPA, Palmitic acid, DHA, and Palmitoleic acid, with PUFAs, particularly omega 3, being the most dominant. Samples exhibit potent radical scavenging in 2000 μg mL−1, similar to ascorbic acid at 62.5 μg mL−1 (62.2 ± 15.36%). The cells release more TNF‐α than IL‐6, and solvent extraction was found to regulate the immune response more effectively. In conclusion, the extracts contain significant amounts of EPA/DHA and variable FFAs, suggesting potential anti‐inflammatory effects. However, further validation in alternative in vitro models is necessary.
Peripheral blood quantitation of CD26 positive leukemic stem cells as a predictor of tyrosine kinase inhibitor response in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Chaudhary Nitin , Rahman Khaliqur , Gupta Prakhar , Gupta Ruchi , Sarkar Manoj K. , Singh Manish K. , Chandra Dinesh , Kumar Sanjeev , Kashyap Rajesh
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Leukemic stem cells (LSCs) are the transcriptionally low/silent cells which are resistant to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor. These have been found to play a pivotal role in disease relapse in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cases. The present study evaluated the correlation of absolute CML‐LSC count in the peripheral blood (PB) at diagnosis and achievement of major molecular response (MMR) at 12 months in patients of CML‐CP.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational, non‐interventional single center study including newly diagnosed adult (>18 yrs) CML‐CP patients. Absolute CD26 + CML‐LSC quantification was done by multiparametric flow cytometry. Patients were treated with Imatinib treatment and subsequently monitored at 3‐month intervals for BCR::ABL transcript levels. MMR was defined as a BCR::ABL1 transcript level of less than 0.1% on international scale.

Results

A total of 89 patients were enrolled in the study out of which 40.5% achieved MMR at 12 months. There was a significant difference in the median absolute CML‐LSC count of the patients who achieved MMR at 12 months as compared to those who did not (58.5 vs 368.1 cells/μL; p value <0.001). Using a ROC analysis, a count of <165.69 CML LSC/μL was identified to have a sensitivity of 83.8% and specificity of 72.4%, in predicting the MMR at 12 months.

Conclusion

Absolute CML‐LSC count at diagnosis in the PB predicts the MMR achievement at 12 months. An absolute count of less than 165 cells/μL is highly predictive of achieving MMR at 12 months.
Analysis of flow cytometry data from ultrasound‐guided lymph node biopsies with two types of needles
Authors: Jin Xin , Jiang Huifang , Jiang Yuxia , Chen Zhilu , Zhou Wenfei , Pan Qing , Tian Shuyuan
Published: May 2024

Background

In this study, we combined two techniques, ultrasound‐guided needle biopsy and flow cytometry (FCM), to explore their value in patients with enlarged lymph nodes.

Methods

We compared the results of 198 needle biopsies on FCM and pathology. Forty‐two were done by (fine needle aspiration, FNA), and the remaining 156 with (core needle biopsy, CNB), in 36 of 156 patients, a FNA was performed in the same lymph node after completion of the CNB. Except for five types of pathological entities, the rest were differentiated only detected or undetected tumours as the outcome distinction.

Results

Among the 198 needle biopsies, 13 were inadequate specimens, while the remaining 185 had pathological findings, including 47 benign and 138 neoplastic findings. Thirty‐six patients underwent puncture with both FNA and CNB, both needles produced identical results by FCM, but more cells were obtained by FNA. Among the pathologically positive results, there were 23 missed diagnoses in FCM, in contrast, evidence of tumours was observed in the FCM images of 15 needle biopsies that reported benign or findings that were inconsistent with pathology, and the final diagnosis was consistent with the FCM in 10 cases. FCM detected haematolymphoid tumours with a sensitivity of 87.8% and a specificity of 91.9%.

Conclusion

The combination of FCM and ultrasound‐guided lymph node needle biopsy can quickly provide guidance for clinical decision‐making. We recommend that all lymph node needle biopsies be sent for FCM, the specimen can be obtained by the last puncture with FNA.
Hierarchically porous Ca3Co4O9 ceramics prepared by freeze casting: Emerging ultra‐low thermal conductivity and apparent anisotropy
Authors: Shi Zongmo , Han Zhen , Xing Fei , Zhang Ying , Xu Jie , Chen Chanli , Zhang Junzhan , Yuan Hudie , Zhang Xinwei
Published: May 2024

The freeze‐casting method shows great potential for environmentally friendly and industrial scale‐up application in thermoelectric materials due to low cost, low toxicity, and pore control. The porous Ca3Co4O9 ceramics with anisotropic thermoelectric performance were fabricated by the freeze‐casting method. High porosities, hierarchical pores, and three‐dimensional (3D) networks significantly contributed to the suppressed thermal conductivity. An ultralow total thermal conductivity of 0.21 W/(m·K) was obtained. The optimized freeze‐casting conditions gave rise to a Seebeck coefficient of 232.3 µV/K. In addition, the ZT value of 0.39 was obtained at 800°C due to the manipulation of hierarchically connected pores and small portions of isolated hexagonal pores. This work provides a new route to form the 3D pores network in oxide thermoelectric ceramics, leading to a decrease in thermal conductivity and optimized thermoelectric performance parallel to the freeze‐casting direction.
Baicalin alleviates angiotensin II‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and autophagy and modulates the AMPK/mTOR pathway
Authors: Cheng Ying , Yan Mengchao , He Shuyu , Xie Yi , Wei Lihui , Xuan Bihan , Shang Zucheng , Wu Meizhu , Zheng Huifang , Chen Youqin , Yuan Meng , Peng Jun , Shen Aling
Published: May 2024

As a main extraction compound from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, Baicalin exhibits various biological activities. However, the underlying mechanism of Baicalin on hypertension‐induced heart injury remains unclear. In vivo, mice were infused with angiotensin II (Ang II; 500 ng/kg/min) or saline using osmotic pumps, followed by intragastrically administrated with Baicalin (5 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. In vitro, H9C2 cells were stimulated with Ang II (1 μM) and treated with Baicalin (12.5, 25 and 50 μM). Baicalin treatment significantly attenuated the decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular fractional shortening, increase in left ventricular mass, left ventricular systolic volume and left ventricular diastolic volume of Ang II infused mice. Moreover, Baicalin treatment reversed 314 differentially expressed transcripts in the cardiac tissues of Ang II infused mice, and enriched multiple enriched signalling pathways (including apoptosis, autophagy, AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway). Consistently, Baicalin treatment significantly alleviated Ang II‐induced cell apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Baicalin treatment reversed the up‐regulation of Bax, cleaved‐caspase 3, cleaved‐caspase 9, and the down‐regulation of Bcl‐2. Meanwhile, Baicalin treatment alleviated Ang II‐induced increase of autophagosomes, restored autophagic flux, and down‐regulated LC3II, Beclin 1, as well as up‐regulated SQSTM1/p62 expression. Furthermore, autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine treatment alleviated the increase of autophagosomes and the up‐regulation of Beclin 1, LC3II, Bax, cleaved‐caspase 3, cleaved‐caspase 9, down‐regulation of SQSTM1/p62 and Bcl‐2 expression after Ang II treated, which similar to co‐treatment with Baicalin. Baicalin treatment reduced the ratio of p‐AMPK/AMPK, while increased the ratio of p‐mTOR/mTOR. Baicalin alleviated Ang II‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and autophagy, which might be related to the inhibition of the AMPK/mTOR pathway.
Perceptibility and acceptability of lightness difference of a single maxillary central incisor
Authors: Ntovas Panagiotis , Diamantopoulou Sofia , Johnston William Michael , Papazoglou Efstratios
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the lightness difference perceptibility and acceptability thresholds, for a single maxillary central incisor, and to investigate possible differences in these thresholds regarding the direction (+ΔL* vs. −ΔL*), the observer group (dentists vs. laypersons), and the gender and age of the observers.

Materials and Methods

A series of images with varying lightness (L*), were created by altering the right maxillary central incisor of a male Caucasian, on a frontal view full‐portrait image. Digital modification of one central incisor by 1 ΔL* unit resulted in 15 different images: one control, seven with increased and seven with decreased lightness. The images were presented in random order, on a digitally calibrated monitor, to 158 observers, grouped into 79 dentists, and 79 laypersons, who were asked to evaluate every image and answer whether they perceive a difference and if yes, whether they accept this difference. A multifactorial analysis of covariance was performed to analyze the perception and acceptance of any difference in the central incisors and to estimate the thresholds. The statistical significance level was α = 0.05.

Results

Overall, the magnitude of ΔL*, direction of ΔL*, observer group and age were each significant (p < 0.001), as was gender (p = 0.03). The effect of the magnitude of ΔL* interacted with its direction and the observer group (p = 0.045), and the effect of age interacted with the direction of ΔL*, and the gender and the group of the observers. Estimated 50%:50% perceptibility thresholds ranged from 0.1 to 2.7, and 50%:50% acceptability thresholds ranged from 2.3 to 4.5. Overall, dentists perceived lightness differences at lower magnitudes than laypersons; difference in lightness was perceived and accepted at lower magnitudes when the tooth become lighter instead of darker; and female observers perceived and accepted lightness differences at lower magnitudes compared to males. As age increased overall, differences of lightness were perceived and accepted at higher magnitudes.

Conclusions

Perceptibility and acceptability of lightness differences of a single maxillary central incisor are affected by the magnitude and the direction of lightness change, as well as the gender, the age, and the type of the observers.

Clinical Significance

Even small changes in lightness are perceivable; however, thresholds of perception and acceptance are dependent on the magnitude and the direction of change and are also dependent on the observer, with women, dentists and younger people perceiving and accepting changes at lower magnitudes of ΔL*.
The economics of copyright in the digital age
Authors: Peukert Christian , Windisch Margaritha
Published: May 2024

Intellectual property rights are fundamental to how economies organize innovation and steer the diffusion of knowledge. Copyright law, in particular, has developed constantly to keep up with emerging technologies and the interests of creators, consumers, and intermediaries of the different creative industries. We provide a synthesis of the literature on the law and economics of copyright in the digital age, with a particular focus on the available empirical evidence. First, we discuss the legal foundations of the copyright system and developments of length and scope throughout the era of digitization. Second, we review the literature on technological change with its opportunities and challenges for the stakeholders involved. We give special attention to empirical evidence on online copyright enforcement, changes in the supply of works due to digital technology, and the importance of creative re‐use and new licensing and business models. We then set out avenues for further research identifying critical gaps in the literature regarding the scope of empirical copyright research, the effects of technology that enables algorithmic licensing, and copyright issues related to software, data and artificial intelligence.
Skin colour: A window into human phenotypic evolution and environmental adaptation
Authors: Liu Jiuming , Bitsue Habtom K. , Yang Zhaohui
Published: May 2024

As modern humans ventured out of Africa and dispersed around the world, they faced novel environmental challenges that led to geographic adaptations including skin colour. Over the long history of human evolution, skin colour has changed dramatically, showing tremendous diversity across different geographical regions, for example, the majority of individuals from the expansive lands of Africa have darker skin, whereas the majority of people from Eurasia exhibit lighter skin. What adaptations did lighter skin confer upon modern humans as they migrated from Africa to Eurasia? What genetic mechanisms underlie the diversity of skin colour observed in different populations? In recent years, scientists have gradually gained a deeper understanding of the interactions between pigmentation gene and skin colour through population‐based genomic studies of different groups around the world, particularly in East Asia and Africa. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of 26 skin colour‐related pigmentation genes and 48 SNPs that influence skin colour. Important pigmentation genes across three major populations are described in detail: MFSD12, SLC24A5, PDPK1 and DDB1/CYB561A3/TMEM138 influence skin colour in African populations; OCA2, KITLG, SLC24A2, GNPAT and PAH are key to the evolution of skin pigmentation in East Asian populations; and SLC24A5, SLC45A2, TYR, TYRP1, ASIP, MC1R and IRF4 significantly contribute to the lightening of skin colour in European populations. We summarized recent findings in genomic studies of skin colour in populations that implicate diverse geographic environments, local adaptation among populations, gene flow and multi‐gene interactions as factors influencing skin colour diversity.
Displacement sensing based on microscopic vision with high resolution and large measuring range
Authors: Wu Pengfei , Li Weijie , Zhao Xuefeng
Published: May 2024

Microimage strain sensing (MISS) is a novel piston‐type sensor based on microscopic vision. In this study, optical disc slice is used as information carriers to improve MISS. There are multiple pits on the surface of an optical disc. By using machine vision algorithms, the pits can be converted into digital information, making them scales for recording displacements. By this means, we proposed a sensing method that combines high resolution, wide range, and strong robustness. The study measured displacement under different conditions. To address inevitable factors such as pixel drift, and manufacturing errors, corresponding compensation methods were provided. The results show that the measurements closely match those of the linear variable differential transformer, with a resolution of up to 20 nm and a range approaching the sensor size. Despite the sensor's dependence on machine vision, it demonstrates strong resistance to environmental factors such as brightness and angle. Combining compensation methods for pixel drift, and manufacturing errors, this sensor can be well‐applied in various working conditions.
First detection of triazole‐resistant aspergillus fumigatus harbouring the TR34/L98H Cyp51A mutation in Burkina Faso
Authors: Yerbanga Isidore W. , Lagrou Katrien , Merckx Rita , Nakanabo Diallo Seydou , Gangneux Jean‐Pierre , Delabarre Aymeric , Denis Olivier , Rodriguez‐Villalobos Hector , Montesinos Isabel , Bamba Sanata
Published: May 2024

Background

Triazole‐resistant Aspergillus fumigatus (TRAF) isolates are a growing public health problem with worldwide distribution. Epidemiological data on TRAF is limited in Africa, particularly in West Africa.

Objectives

This study aimed to screen for the environmental presence of TRAF isolates in the indoor air of two hospitals in Burkina Faso.

Materials and Methods

Air samples were collected in wards housing patients at risk for invasive aspergillosis, namely infectious diseases ward, internal medicine ward, nephrology ward, pulmonology ward, medical emergency ward and paediatric ward. Sabouraud Dextrose Agar supplemented with triazoles was used to screen the suspected TRAF isolates and EUCAST method to confirm the resistance of suspected isolates. Sequencing of cyp51A gene was used to identify the resistance mechanism of confirmed TRAF isolates.

Results

Of the 198 samples collected and analysed, 67 showed growth of A. fumigatus isolates. The prevalence of TRAF isolates was 3.23% (4/124). One TRAF isolate exhibited a pan‐triazole resistance. Sequencing of cyp51A gene identified the TR34/L98H mutation for this pan‐triazole resistant isolate. This study showed for the first time the circulation of the pan‐azole resistant isolate harbouring the TR34/L98H mutation in Burkina Faso.

Conclusions

These findings emphasise the need to map these TRAF isolates in all parts of Burkina Faso and to establish local and national continuous surveillance of environmental and clinical TRAF isolates in this country.
Inequality in an Equal Society
Authors: Harvey Laura A. , Mierau Jochen O. , Rockey James
Published: May 2024

A society in which everybody of a given age has the same income will exhibit substantial income and wealth inequality. We use this idea to empirically quantify inter‐cohort inequality – the share of observed inequality attributable to life‐cycle profiles of income and wealth – using data on male earnings and household wealth. We document that recent increases in income and wealth inequality in the USA and other developed countries are larger than observed rates would suggest due to favourable demographics. That is, while demographic change played a substantial role in the dynamics of income and wealth inequality until 1990, the stark increase in inequality in the USA and elsewhere ever since is despite not because of demographic change. Moreover, we show that there is important variation across countries in the level and trends in the extent of inequality that is due to lifecycle effects, and that taking this into account gives a more nuanced view of cross‐country comparisons.