bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PURA Syndrome-causing mutations impair PUR-domain integrity and affect P-body association
Authors: Proske Marcel , Janowski Robert , Bacher Sabrina , Kang Hyun-Seo , Monecke Thomas , Köhler Tony , Hutten Saskia , Tretter Jana , Crois Anna , Molitor Lena , Varela-Rial Alejandro , Fino Roberto , Donati Elisa , Fabritiis Gianni De , Dormann Dorothee , Sattler Michael , Niessing Dierk
Published: September 2023

Mutations in the humanPURAgene cause the neuro-developmental PURA syndrome. In contrast to several other mono-genetic disorders, almost all reported mutations in this nucleic acid binding protein result in the full disease penetrance. In this study, we observed that patient mutations across PURA impair its previously reported co-localization with processing bodies. These mutations either destroyed the folding integrity, RNA binding or dimerization of PURA. We also solved the crystal structures of the N- and C-terminal PUR domains of human PURA and combined them with molecular dynamics simulations and NMR measurements. The observed unusually high dynamics and structural promiscuity of PURA indicated that this protein is particularly susceptible to mutations impairing its structural integrity. It offers an explanation why even conservative mutations across PURA result in the full penetrance of symptoms in patients with PURA syndrome.
Collateral sensitivity increases the efficacy of a rationally designed bacteriophage combination to controlSalmonella enterica
Authors: Acton Luke , Pye Hannah , Thilliez Gaëtan , Kolenda Rafał , Matthews Michaela , Turner A. Keith , Yasir Muhammad , Holden Emma , Al-Khanaq Haider , Webber Mark , Adriaenssens Evelien M , Kingsley Robert A
Published: September 2023

The ability of virulent bacteriophages to lyse bacteria influences bacterial evolution, fitness, and population structure. Knowledge of both host susceptibility and resistance factors is crucial for the successful application of bacteriophages as biological control agents in clinical therapy, food processing and agriculture. In this study, we isolated twelve bacteriophages termed SPLA phage which infect the foodborne pathogenSalmonella enterica. To determine phage host range, a diverse collection ofEnterobacteriaceaeandSalmonella entericawere used and genes involved in infection by six SPLA phages were identified usingSalmonellaTyphimurium strain ST4/74. Candidate host receptors included lipopolysaccharide, cellulose and BtuB. Lipopolysaccharide was identified as susceptibility factor for phage SPLA1a and mutations in LPS biosynthesis genes spontaneously emerged during culture withS. Typhimurium. Conversely, LPS was a resistance factor for phage SPLA5b that suggested that emergence of LPS mutations in culture with SPLA1a may represent a case of collateral sensitivity to SPLA5b. We show that combination therapy with SPLA1a and SPLA5b was more successful in limiting the emergence of phage resistance compared to monotherapy. Identification of host susceptibility and resistance genes and understanding infection dynamics is critical step in rationale design of phage cocktails against specific bacterial pathogens.
Uridine Bisphosphonates Differentiate Phosphoglycosyl Transferase Superfamilies
Authors: Seebald Leah M. , Haratipour Pouya , Jacobs Michaela R. , Bernstein Hannah M. , Kashemirov Boris A. , McKenna Charles E. , Imperiali Barbara
Published: September 2023

Complex bacterial glycoconjugates are essential for bacterial survival, and drive interactions between pathogens and symbionts, and their human hosts. Glycoconjugate biosynthesis is initiated at the membrane interface by phosphoglycosyl transferases (PGTs), which catalyze the transfer of a phosphosugar from a soluble uridine diphospho-sugar (UDP-sugar) substrate to a membrane-bound polyprenol-phosphate (Pren-P). Two distinct superfamilies of PGT enzymes, denoted as polytopic and monotopic, carry out this reaction but show striking differences in structure and mechanism. With the goal of creating non-hydrolyzable mimics (UBP-sugars) of the UDP-sugar substrates as chemical probes to interrogate critical aspects of these essential enzymes, we designed and synthesized a series of uridine bisphosphonates (UBPs), wherein the diphosphate bridging oxygen of the UDP and UDP-sugar is replaced by a substituted methylene group (CXY; X/Y = F/F, Cl/Cl, (S)-H/F, (R)-H/F, H/H, CH3/CH3). These compounds, which incorporated as the conjugating sugar anN-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) substituent at the β-phosphonate, were evaluated as inhibitors of a representative polytopic PGT (WecA fromThermotoga maritima) and a monotopic PGT (PglC fromCampylobacter jejuni). Although CHF-BP most closely mimics pyrophosphate with respect to its acid/base properties, the less basic CF2-BP conjugate most strongly inhibited PglC, whereas the more basic CH2-BP analogue was the strongest inhibitor of WecA. These surprising differences indicate different modes of ligand binding for the different PGT superfamilies implicating a modified P–O−interaction with the structural Mg2+, consistent with their catalytic divergence. Furthermore, at least for the monoPGT superfamily example, this was not the sole determinant of ligand binding: the two diastereomeric CHF-BP conjugates, which feature a chiral center at the Pα-CHF-Pβcarbon, exhibited strikingly different binding affinities and the inclusion of GlcNAc with the native α-anomer configuration significantly improved binding affinity. UBP-sugars are a valuable tool for elucidating the structures and mechanisms of the distinct PGT superfamilies and offer a promising scaffold to develop novel antibiotic agents for the exclusively prokaryotic monoPGT superfamily.

TABLE OF CONTENTS GRAPHIC
Extracellular Vesicles fromPneumocystis carinii-Infected Rats Impair Fungal Viability but are Dispensable for Macrophage Functions
Authors: Sayson Steven G. , Ashbaugh Alan , Cushion Melanie T.
Published: September 2023

Pneumocystisspp. are host obligate fungal pathogens that can cause severe pneumonia in mammals and rely heavily on their host for essential nutrients. The lack of a sustainablein vitroculture system poses challenges in understanding their metabolism and the acquisition of essential nutrients from host lungs remains unexplored.

Transmission electron micrographs show Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are found nearPneumocystisspp. within the lung. We hypothesized that EVs transport essential nutrients to the fungi during infection. To investigate this, EVs fromP. cariniiandP. murinainfected rodents were biochemically and functionally characterized. These EVs contained host proteins involved in cellular, metabolic, and immune processes as well as proteins with homologs found in other fungal EV proteomes, indicatingPneumocystismay release EVs. Notably, EV uptake byP. cariniiindicated their potential involvement in nutrient acquisition and indicate a possibility for using engineered EVs for efficient therapeutic delivery. However, EVs added toP. carinii in vitro, did not show increased growth or viability, implying that additional nutrients or factors are necessary to support their metabolic requirements. Exposure of macrophages to EVs increased proinflammatory cytokine levels, but did not affect macrophages’ ability to kill or phagocytoseP. carinii. These findings provide vital insights intoP. cariniiand host EV interactions, yet the mechanisms underlyingP. carinii’s survival in the lung remain uncertain. These studies are the first to isolate, characterize, and functionally assess EVs fromPneumocystis-infected rodents, promising to enhance our understanding of host-pathogen dynamics and therapeutic potential.
Alternative splicing regulation in plants by effectors of symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Betz Ruben , Heidt Sven , Figueira-Galán David , Langner Thorsten , Requena Natalia
Published: September 2023

Most plants in natural ecosystems live in association with AM (arbuscular mycorrhizal) fungi to survive under poor nutrient conditions and to cope with other abiotic and biotic stresses. To engage in symbiosis, AM fungi secrete effector molecules that, similar to pathogenic effectors, reprogram plant cells. Despite numerous effectors being predicted in the genome of AM fungi, only a few have been functionally characterized. Here we show that the SP7-like family, a Glomeromycotina-specific effector family, impacts on the alternative splicing program of their hosts. SP7-like effectors localize at nuclear condensates and interact with the plant mRNA processing machinery, most prominently with the splicing factor SR45 and the core splicing proteins U170K and U2AF35. Ectopic expression of two of these effectors in the crop plant potato changed the alternative splicing pattern of a specific subset of genes. Unravelling the communication mechanisms between symbiotic fungi and their host plants will help to identify targets to improve plant nutrition.
A Truck is not a Cookie: Matching Supply with Demand at Mahindra Truck and Bus Division
Authors: Roy Debjit
Published: September 2023

Mahindra Trucks and Buses forayed into India's commercial vehicles sector in 2005. However, they had to battle numerous supply chain challenges associated with introducing a new product (a new truck brand) in the market and to gain a noticeable foothold in the market. In this case, we attempt to align customer brand stickiness with the supply chain expectations from a new product. In particular, we deliberate how the needs of all actors in the supply chain must be met and their interactions must be accounted in developing a robust supply chain. Finally, a supply chain is successful when demand can be matched with supply and the customer's service level can be achieved.
Creating good knowledge together: heartful-communal storytelling at the intersection of caregiving and academia
Authors: Winham Nina , Williams Kristin S. , Jamjoom Liela A. , Watson Kerry , Weigand Heidi , Deal Nicholous M.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore a novel storytelling approach that investigates lived experience at the intersection of motherhood/caregiving and Ph.D. pursuits. The paper contributes to the feminist tradition of writing differently through the process of care that emerges from shared stories.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a process called heartful-communal storytelling, the authors evoke personal and embodied stories and transgressive narratives. The authors present a composite process drawing on heartful-autoethnography, dialogic writing and communal storytelling.

Findings

The paper makes two key contributions: (1) the paper illustrates a novel feminist process in action and (2) the paper contributes six discrete stories of lived experience at the intersection of parenthood and Ph.D. studies. The paper also contributes to the development of the feminist tradition of writing differently. Three themes emerged through the storytelling experience, and these include (1) creating boundaries and transgressing boundaries, (2) giving and receiving care and (3) neoliberal conformity and resistance. These themes, like the stories, also became entangled.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates how heartful-communal storytelling can lead to individual and collective meaning making. While the Ph.D. is a solitary path, the authors' heartful-communal storytelling experience teaches that holding it separate from other relationships can impoverish what is learnt and constrain the production of good knowledge; the epistemic properties of care became self-evident.
Analyzing critical success factors for the implementation of air-taxi services for public transportation
Authors: Sah Bhawesh , Titiyal Rohit
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Companies are adopting innovative methods for responsiveness and efficiency in the public transport sector. The implementation of air-taxi services (ATS) in the transport sector is a move in this direction. Air taxis have a two-pronged advantage as they can reduce travel times by avoiding traffic congestion and have the potential to reduce carbon footprint compared to traditional modes of public transportation. Many companies worldwide are developing and testing ATS for practical applications. However, many factors may play a significant role in adopting ATS in the transport sector. This paper attempts to unearth such critical success factors (CSFs) and establish the interrelationships between these factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Fifteen CSFs were identified by systematically reviewing the literature and taking experts' input. An integrated multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique, Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory-Analytic Network Process (DEMATEL-ANP [DANP]) was used to envisage the causal relationships between the identified CSF.

Findings

The results reveal that Govt Regulations (GOR), Skilled Workforce (SKF) and Conductive Research Environment (CRE) are the most influential factors that impact the adoption of ATS in the transport sector.

Practical implications

The research implications of these findings will help practitioners and policymakers effectively implement ATS in the public transportation sector.

Originality/value

This is the first kind of study that identifies and explores the different CSFs for ATS implementation in public transportation. The CSFs are evaluated with the help of a framework built with inputs from logistics experts. The study recognizes the CSFs for ATS implementation and provides a foundation for future research and smooth adoption of ATS.
EXPERT REVIEW SERIES International business travel: a review of theory and research
Authors: Westman Mina , Chen Shoshi , Eden Dov
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The goals of this review are to identify key theories, constructs and themes in the international business travel (IBT) literature and to propose a model based on findings, theories and constructs drawn from adjacent research literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors reviewed the business travel (BT) literature to identify conceptual and empirical articles on IBT published from 1990 to 2022. Only 53 publications were suitable for review. The authors reviewed them using an open coding system.

Findings

The IBT literature is dispersed across several disciplines that use different methods, focus on different aspects of travel and emphasize different positive and negative outcomes that IBT engenders. The publications employed a diverse range of methods, including review and conceptual (11), quantitative (28) and qualitative methods (14). The samples were diverse in country, age, marital status and tenure. Many publications were descriptive and exploratory. The few that based their research on theory focused on two stress theories: Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory and conservation of resources (COR) theory.

Research limitations/implications

Experimental and longitudinal designs are needed to reduce the causal ambiguity of this body of mostly correlational and cross-sectional research. The authors discuss the impact of emerging advances in virtual global communication technology on the future of IBT.

Practical implications

More research is needed on positive aspects of IBT. Human resource (HR) people should be aware of these issues and are encouraged to decrease the deleterious aspects of the international trips and increase the positive ones.

Social implications

Increasing well-being of international business travelers is important for the travelers, their families and the organization.

Originality/value

This is the first IBT review focused on the theoretical underpinnings of research in the field. The authors offer a model for IBT and introduce adjustment and performance as important constructs in IBT research. The authors encompass crossover theory to add the reciprocal impact of travelers and spouses and label IBT a “double-edge sword” because it arouses both positive and negative outcomes.
Is constitutional democracy in India in crisis?
Authors: Tummala Krishna K.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper examines the decline of the largest working parliamentary democracy in India overtime, but accelerating since 2014 as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Center (as the federal government is commonly known).

Design/methodology/approach

It is eclectic. Original constitution, along with commentaries, are studied. News outlets, government pronouncements, journal articles, and other media outlets — electronic and print — are also sourced.

Findings

The findings show how three important features in democracy — elections and their outcomes, control of information, and suppression of dissent are widely used to undermine constitutional democracy.

Originality/value

Democracy can be undermined without altering the Constitution itself. It also explains the irony of Modi’s popularity, given the undemocratic practices. As he may continue in office for some time to come, commanding a log-rolling majority, the need of the hour is a united, constructive and effective opposition to ensure a healthy working democracy.
Differential early‐life survival underlies the adaptive significance of temperature‐dependent sex determination in a long‐lived reptile
Authors: Bock Samantha L. , Loera Yeraldi , Johnson Josiah M. , Smaga Christopher R. , Haskins David L. , Tuberville Tracey D. , Singh Randeep , Rainwater Thomas R. , Wilkinson Philip M. , Parrott Benjamin B.
Published: September 2023

Many ectotherms rely on temperature cues experienced during development to determine offspring sex. The first descriptions of temperature‐dependent sex determination (TSD) were made over 50 years ago, yet an understanding of its adaptive significance remains elusive, especially in long‐lived taxa.

One novel hypothesis predicts that TSD should be evolutionarily favoured when two criteria are met—(a) incubation temperature influences annual juvenile survival and (b) sexes mature at different ages. Under these conditions, a sex‐dependent effect of incubation temperature on offspring fitness arises through differences in age at sexual maturity, with the sex that matures later benefiting disproportionately from temperatures that promote juvenile survival.

The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) serves as an insightful model in which to test this hypothesis, as males begin reproducing nearly a decade after females. Here, through a combination of artificial incubation experiments and mark‐recapture approaches, we test the specific predictions of the survival‐to‐maturity hypothesis for the adaptive value of TSD by disentangling the effects of incubation temperature and sex on annual survival of alligator hatchlings across two geographically distinct sites.

Hatchlings incubated at male‐promoting temperatures (MPTs) consistently exhibited higher survival compared to those incubated at female‐promoting temperatures. This pattern appears independent of hatchling sex, as females produced from hormone manipulation at MPT exhibit similar survival to their male counterparts.

Additional experiments show that incubation temperature may affect early‐life survival primarily by affecting the efficiency with which maternally transferred energy resources are used during development.

Results from this study provide the first explicit empirical support for the adaptive value of TSD in a crocodilian and point to developmental energetics as a potential unifying mechanism underlying persistent survival consequences of incubation temperature.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Anti‐prolactin treatment alleviates lupus conditions by regulating the JAK2–STAT3 pathway
Authors: Jiang Ying , Chen Huyan , Lin Jinran , Pan Jiewen , Shen Yanyun , Li Qiao
Published: September 2023

Objectives

We previously revealed the role of prolactin (PRL) in antibody production and disease activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. In this study, we sought to determine whether inhibition of PRL could improve lupus‐like disease in MRL/lpr mice.

Methods

The expression levels of PRL in various cell types of lupus patients were measured by flow cytometry. The effects of anti‐PRL on animal survival, renal histopathology, creatinine, proteinuria, anti‐dsDNA antibody, cytokine production, splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy were assessed. The effect of anti‐PRL on the Jak2‐Stat3 signalling pathway was detected by western blotting.

Results

Prolactin was upregulated in B cells, neutrophils, CD4+ T cells, and monocytes isolated from patients with lupus. Furthermore, inhibition of PRL by anti‐PRL treatment around the time of onset prolonged the survival of MRL/lpr mice, significantly reduced anti‐dsDNA antibody production, and alleviated symptoms of lupus nephritis, splenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy. In addition, anti‐PRL‐treated mice showed a decrease in the levels of pathogenic cytokines such as IL‐21 and IL‐6. Furthermore, mechanistically, anti‐PRL treatment significantly reduced the levels of p‐Jak2 and p‐Stat3 in MRL/lpr mice.

Conclusions

In summary, these data suggest that PRL inhibition alleviates lupus‐like disease in MRL/lpr mice by modulating the Jak2‐Stat3 signalling cascade. More importantly, our results imply the potential of PRL inhibitors and may provide a novel therapeutic approach for lupus.
Renewable energy, natural resources, technological innovation, and consumption‐based carbon emissions in China: Tracking environmental neutrality
Authors: Samour Ahmed , Jahanger Atif , Ali Mumtaz , Joof Foday , Tursoy Turgut
Published: September 2023

Although numerous empirical studies have scrutinized the impact of technological innovation, renewable energy, and natural resources on carbon emissions (CCO2), there is a lack of empirical knowledge of consumption‐based CCO2 emissions. This study examines the impacts of technological innovation, renewable energy, and natural resources factors on CCO2 emissions in China. In addition, the present work considers the role of the banking sector in environmental neutrality in China from 1990 to 2019. For this purpose, the sophisticated approach of “bootstrap autoregressive distributed lag (BARDL)” is applied to explore the association of the selected indicators on CCO2. The outcomes indicate that (i) economic growth and natural resources negatively impact environmental neutrality; (ii) environment‐related technologies and renewable energy are crucial to promoting environmental neutrality; and (iii) banking sector in China has a positive association with CCO2 emissions. The findings of this work recommend using effective measures to mitigate ecological pollution by using green energy sources and strengthening the banking sector by offering environment‐friendly investment loans. Likewise, strategies should be designed that reinforce sustainable development.
The effects of confessions on misconduct and guilty pleas in exonerations: Implications for discovery policies
Authors: Bettens Talley , Redlich Allison D.
Published: September 2023

Research Summary

Using data from the National Registry of Exonerations, we examined how the presence of confession evidence impacts prosecutors’ tendency in order to (1) commit misconduct in any form (e.g., permitting perjury and witness tampering) and (2) specifically withhold exculpatory evidence (i.e., evidence favorable to the defense). We assess these relationships particularly in the context of wrongful convictions by guilty plea from an innocent individual (i.e., false guilty plea [FGP]) or guilty verdict at trial. We show the presence of false confessions increased the likelihood of (1) prosecutors engaging in misconduct generally and (2) prosecutors withholding exculpatory evidence specifically. However, the presence of prosecutorial misconduct and withholding evidence decreased the odds of a wrongful conviction via an FGP compared to wrongful conviction via guilty verdict.

Policy Implications

Policies encouraging prosecutorial transparency and accountability are needed in order to better identify misconduct when it occurs, particularly in the context of guilty pleas. Open‐file discovery policies, which aim to provide full transparency, may prevent prosecutors from intentionally or unintentionally withholding evidence when faced with strong evidence like a confession, which could ultimately decrease the potential of wrongful conviction.
Associations between state‐level general population alcohol policies and drinking outcomes among women of reproductive age: Results from 1984 to 2020 National Alcohol Surveys
Authors: Subbaraman Meenakshi S. , Sesline Katrina , Kerr William C. , Roberts Sarah C. M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Policies specific to alcohol use during pregnancy have not been found to reduce risks related to alcohol use during pregnancy. In contrast, general population alcohol policies are protective for the general population. Here, we assessed whether US state‐level general population alcohol policies are related to drinking outcomes among women of reproductive age.

Methods

We conducted secondary analyses of 1984–2020 National Alcohol Survey data (N = 13,555 women ≤44 years old). State‐level policy exposures were government control of liquor retail sales, heavy beer at gas stations, heavy beer at grocery stores, liquor at grocery stores, Sunday off‐premise liquor sales, and blood alcohol concentration (BAC) driving limits (no law, 0.10 limit, 0.05–0.08 limit). Outcomes were past 12‐month number of drinks, ≥5 drink days, ≥8 drink days, and any DSM‐IV alcohol abuse/dependence symptoms. Regressions adjusted for individual and state‐level controls, clustering by state, and included fixed effects for survey month and year.

Results

Allowing Sunday off‐premise liquor sales versus not was related to having 1.20 times as many drinks (95% CI: 1.01, 1.42), 1.41 times as many ≥5 drink days (95% CI: 1.08, 1.85), and 1.91 times as many ≥8 drink days (95% CI: 1.28, 2.83). BAC limits of 0.05–0.08 for driving versus no BAC limit was related to 0.51 times fewer drinks (95% CI: 0.27, 0.96), 0.28 times fewer days with ≥5 drinks (95% CI: 0.10, 0.75), and 0.20 times fewer days with ≥8 drinks (95% CI: 0.08, 0.47).

Conclusions

US state‐level policies prohibiting Sunday off‐premise liquor sales and BAC limits of 0.05–0.08 for driving are related to less past 12‐month overall and heavy drinking among women 18–44 years old.
Bat boxes in urban bushland are associated with inflated activity of an urban generalist bat, but not an altered community
Authors: Velasco Sabrina , French Kris , Law Brad , Threlfall Caragh G.
Published: September 2023

Bat boxes are often installed as substitute habitats to offset the loss of large, hollow‐bearing trees. However, emerging evidence suggests that they are failing to achieve intended conservation outcomes as they only support generalist species. Despite these concerns, the effect of bat boxes on the dynamics of bat communities remains understudied. We assessed the bat community in reserves where bat boxes had been installed in comparison with reserves where they had not using ultrasonic surveys in 16 small bushland reserves throughout Sydney, Australia. Reserves containing bat boxes and those without had comparable species diversity and composition; however, the activity of the dominant species, Gould's wattled bat (Chalinolobus gouldii), was significantly higher at sites with bat boxes. Species that commonly forage in open vegetation, including C. gouldii, were significantly positively associated with sites that had bat boxes. Occupation of boxes by bats was not recorded in the study due to limited information on their locations, so further research is required to understand the direct effects of boxes and the bats that occupy them on the bat community. If bat boxes continue to be recommended as a biodiversity offset, a greater understanding of the potential impact they have on altered competitive relationships and community dynamics is essential.
Mindsets of poverty: Implications for redistributive policy support
Authors: Hoyt Crystal L. , Burnette Jeni L. , Billingsley Joseph , Becker Whitney , Babij Alexandra D.
Published: September 2023

Belief systems impact poverty reduction efforts, as they can enhance, or diminish, support for redistributive economic policies. We examined the predictive utility of mindsets about the changeability (growth mindsets) or the stability (fixed mindsets) of the nature of poverty in society. We conducted six studies, two pre‐registered, using both cross‐sectional (N = 763) and experimental methods (N = 1361). Growth mindsets of poverty in society predicted greater support for redistributive policies, in part through decreased blame, although there was also a small but unreliable negative indirect effect through social class essentialism. The three experimental studies, each using a different approach, were successful in manipulating mindsets of poverty. However, only the approach leveraging system justifying beliefs had implications for blame, essentialist beliefs, and indirect consequences for policy support. We discuss potential implications of this work for leveraging multiple belief systems to optimally promote support for policies designed to abolish poverty.
International pharmacy students' perceptions towards artificial intelligence in medicine—A multinational, multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Busch Felix , Hoffmann Lena , Truhn Daniel , Palaian Subish , Alomar Muaed , Shpati Kleva , Makowski Marcus Richard , Bressem Keno Kyrill , Adams Lisa Christine
Published: September 2023

Aims

To explore international undergraduate pharmacy students' views on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into pharmacy education and practice.

Methods

This cross‐sectional institutional review board‐approved multinational, multicentre study comprised an anonymous online survey of 14 multiple‐choice items to assess pharmacy students' preferences for AI events in the pharmacy curriculum, the current state of AI education, and students' AI knowledge and attitudes towards using AI in the pharmacy profession, supplemented by 8 demographic queries. Subgroup analyses were performed considering sex, study year, tech‐savviness, and prior AI knowledge and AI events in the curriculum using the Mann–Whitney U‐test. Variances were reported for responses in Likert scale format.

Results

The survey gathered 387 pharmacy student opinions across 16 faculties and 12 countries. Students showed predominantly positive attitudes towards AI in medicine (58%, n = 225) and expressed a strong desire for more AI education (72%, n = 276). However, they reported limited general knowledge of AI (63%, n = 242) and felt inadequately prepared to use AI in their future careers (51%, n = 197). Male students showed more positive attitudes towards increasing efficiency through AI (P = .011), while tech‐savvy and advanced‐year students expressed heightened concerns about potential legal and ethical issues related to AI (P < .001/P = .025, respectively). Students who had AI courses as part of their studies reported better AI knowledge (P < .001) and felt more prepared to apply it professionally (P < .001).

Conclusions

Our findings underline the generally positive attitude of international pharmacy students towards AI application in medicine and highlight the necessity for a greater emphasis on AI education within pharmacy curricula.
A Bayesian nonparametric approach for handling item and examinee heterogeneity in assessment data
Authors: Pan Tianyu , Shen Weining , Davis‐Stober Clintin P. , Hu Guanyu
Published: September 2023

We propose a novel nonparametric Bayesian item response theory model that estimates clusters at the question level, while simultaneously allowing for heterogeneity at the examinee level under each question cluster, characterized by a mixture of binomial distributions. The main contribution of this work is threefold. First, we present our new model and demonstrate that it is identifiable under a set of conditions. Second, we show that our model can correctly identify question‐level clusters asymptotically, and the parameters of interest that measure the proficiency of examinees in solving certain questions can be estimated at a rate (up to a log term). Third, we present a tractable sampling algorithm to obtain valid posterior samples from our proposed model. Compared to the existing methods, our model manages to reveal the multi‐dimensionality of the examinees' proficiency level in handling different types of questions parsimoniously by imposing a nested clustering structure. The proposed model is evaluated via a series of simulations as well as apply it to an English proficiency assessment data set. This data analysis example nicely illustrates how our model can be used by test makers to distinguish different types of students and aid in the design of future tests.
La politique nationale de l'architecture et de l'aménagement du territoire du Québec : Une mise en récit mobilisatrice ?
Authors: Simard Martin
Published: September 2023

La publication de la Politique nationale de l'architecture et de l'aménagement du territoire du Québec (PNAAT) interpelle la géographie à plusieurs égards. Cette politique, qui résulte d'un processus d'élaboration de dix‐huit mois, est mise en récit autour du paradigme de l'aménagement durable, comme le veut la tendance générale aujourd'hui en aménagement et urbanisme. Or, au Québec, plusieurs politiques territoriales adoptées depuis 2000 sont aussi marquées par une telle trame narrative. Conséquemment, il convient de s'interroger sur la nature de la narrativité de la PNAAT : s'agit‐il de la consolidation du référentiel existant ou d'un recadrage ? Par ailleurs, quel potentiel la PNAAT acquiert‐elle ainsi en termes de mobilisation des acteurs ? Ces questions nous mèneront à comparer diverses politiques publiques québécoises, sur les plans de la terminologie, de même que des orientations et objectifs. Nos résultats illustrent le fait que le discours de la PNAAT est en conformité avec les politiques territoriales précédemment proposées. De plus, l'appel à la durabilité et à la lutte au changement climatique présente un pouvoir mobilisateur à travers une mise en récit bien ficelée.
Cytologic atypia of benign inflammatory versus neoplastic cutaneous squamous lesions
Authors: Khamdan Fatema , Dirr McKenzie A. , Sagut Pelin , Brailsford Caroline J. , Williams Jacob A. , Nietert Paul J. , Elston Dirk M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Cytologic atypia encompasses several features of abnormal cellular morphology. We sought to quantify these features in benign and premalignant/malignant squamous cell lesions to better characterize criteria for malignancy.

Methods

We conducted a rater‐blinded observational study in which histopathology slides were evaluated under light microscopy, and the presence and relative quantity of 24 distinct cytological features were recorded, along with respective diagnoses. Each slide was evaluated, and the ratings were recorded and analyzed.

Results

The most helpful findings, whose presence in high numbers indicates an increased likelihood that the tissue sample is premalignant/malignant, were: (1) pleomorphic parakeratosis; (2) pleomorphic nuclei in the epithelium; (3) irregular nuclei; (4) thick refractile nuclear envelope; (5) presence of nuclear hyperchromasia (dark gray); (6) peripheral nucleoli; and (7) nucleolar stems. Higher values of round or oval nuclear shape and vesicular nuclei increase the likelihood that the tissue sample is benign.

Conclusions

Certain nuclear features have a higher association with premalignancy/malignancy and may guide histologic evaluation of a given lesion. These findings can be used in combination with architectural features and clinical history to add to a complete diagnostic picture.
Adult thermoregulatory behaviour does not provide, by itself, an adaptive explanation for the reflectance–climate relationship (Bogert's pattern) inIberianbutterflies
Authors: Álamo Mario , García‐Barros Enrique , Romo Helena
Published: September 2023

The association of darker, less reflective insect wings with cooler environments (Bogert's rule) is thought to be related to adult thermoregulation, but the adaptive explanation and the implications for sensitivity to climate warming are yet to be tested. We re‐evaluate the pattern for butterflies using finer resolution data than in previous approaches, both geographically and morphologically, and test its correlation with recent evidence of impacts of warming on butterflies.

We compared reflectance–climate relationships at different grid sizes, selected the best subset of reflectance measurements and tested the contribution of the species basking mode, the phylogenetic structure of the data and the correlation between reflectance and published abundance or altitudinal shifts. We used standardised RGB (Red, Green, Blue) values from 222 species from the Iberian Peninsula, and regional mean temperature and precipitation data from the study area (10 and 50‐km resolutions) and Europe (50‐km resolution).

Correlations between reflectance and temperature increased at finer geographical and morphological resolutions. However, the butterfly basking mode did not improve the statistical explanation of the pattern. Reflectance shows a strong phylogenetic structure, while variance partitioning indicated a poor pure contribution of the climate variables in the reflectance–climate correlation.

Overall, mean temperature and precipitation were only modest predictors of butterfly reflectance. No correlation between reflectance and recent abundance or altitudinal shifts was found using the hypothesised best estimates of reflectance. Although significant correlations between butterfly shading and altitudinal shifts were found for two of the reflectance measurements, this is interpreted as weak, probably artifactual evidence on the predictive power of this relationship.

The strong phylogenetic pattern of the reflectance and the low fraction of the reflectance measures analysed suggest that tests for alternative explanations are still needed to shed light on the meaning of the colour–environment relationships in butterflies, which probably are of a complex nature. From an adaptive point of view, unravelling the basis of Bogert's pattern in butterflies requires a closer, habitat‐level approach and alternative variables to adult thermoregulatory behaviour to be tested.
A 2‐week time‐restricted feeding attenuates psoriasis‐like lesions with reduced inflammatory cytokines and immunosenescence in mice
Authors: Chen Yiran , Li Xi , Yang Ming , Wang Lu , Lv Xinyi , Shen Kai , Wu Haijing , Lu Qianjin
Published: September 2023

Psoriasis, a well‐established T‐cell mediated dermatosis, exhibits a robust correlation with obesity and systemic inflammation, manifesting psoriasis skin lesions and premature immunosenescence within the peripheral blood and lesion. Intermittent fasting (IF) has exhibited various beneficial effects in reducing inflammation, resisting oxidative stress and slowing ageing, as well as losing weight. A form of IF known as time‐restricted feeding (TRF) restricts daily caloric intake within 4–8 h. Nonetheless, the advantageous impacts of TRF on psoriasis still require further verification. We measured the acanthosis in Imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis mice and evaluated their pathological phenotypes. Our study examined the effects of a 2‐week TRF on body weight and metabolic parameters. The subsets of T cells in spleens and skin lesions were accessed by flow cytometry. Cytokines and senescence‐associated genes were evaluated by immunofluorescence and RT‐qPCR. RNA sequencing was conducted on skin lesions. According to our findings, a 2‐week TRF attenuates psoriasis‐like lesions in mice with reduced inflammatory cytokines and mitigated immunosenescence. TRF increased the counts of CD4+ Treg cells in skin lesions while reducing the counts of Th2 and Th17 cells in spleens. Furthermore, the administration of TRF resulted in a decrease in the population of CD4+ senescent T cells in both the dermis and spleens, concomitant with the expression of senescence‐associated genes in spleen CD4+ T cells. The outcomes mentioned above provide valuable evidence in support of TRF for the management of psoriasis.
Dynamic human, oceanographic, and ecological factors mediate transboundary fishery overlap across the Pacific high seas
Authors: Frawley Timothy H. , Muhling Barbara , Brodie Stephanie , Blondin Hannah , Welch Heather , Arostegui Martin C. , Bograd Steven J. , Braun Camrin D. , Cimino Megan A. , Farchadi Nima , Hazen Elliott L. , Tommasi Desiree , Jacox Michael
Published: September 2023

The management and conservation of tuna and other transboundary marine species have to date been limited by an incomplete understanding of the oceanographic, ecological and socioeconomic factors mediating fishery overlap and interactions, and how these factors vary across expansive, open ocean habitats. Despite advances in fisheries monitoring and biologging technology, few attempts have been made to conduct integrated ecological analyses at basin scales relevant to pelagic fisheries and the highly migratory species they target. Here, we use vessel tracking data, archival tags, observer records, and machine learning to examine inter‐ and intra‐annual variability in fisheries overlap (2013–2020) of five pelagic longline fishing fleets with North Pacific albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga, Scombridae). Although progressive declines in catch and biomass have been observed over the past several decades, the North Pacific albacore is one of the only Pacific tuna stocks primarily targeted by pelagic longlines not currently listed as overfished or experiencing overfishing. We find that fishery overlap varies significantly across time and space as mediated by (1) differences in habitat preferences between juvenile and adult albacore; (2) variation of oceanographic features known to aggregate pelagic biomass; and (3) the different spatial niches targeted by shallow‐set and deep‐set longline fishing gear. These findings may have significant implications for stock assessment in this and other transboundary fishery systems, particularly the reliance on fishery‐dependent data to index abundance. Indeed, we argue that additional consideration of how overlap, catchability, and size selectivity parameters vary over time and space may be required to ensure the development of robust, equitable, and climate‐resilient harvest control rules.
Participatory approaches for developing a practical handbook integrating health information for supporting individuals with mild cognitive impairment and their families
Authors: Kuroda Yujiro , Goto Aya , Sugimoto Taiki , Fujita Kosuke , Uchida Kazuaki , Matsumoto Nanae , Shimada Hiroyuki , Ohtsuka Rei , Yamada Minoru , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Seike Aya , Hattori Madoka , Ito Gabin , Arai Hidenori , Sakurai Takashi
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to develop a patient‐centred handbook that integrates information on lifestyle modifications and psychological support strategies for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This article provides a comprehensive record of the development process.

Methods

We adopted a participatory research model for the methodology, which comprised five phases and involved an interdisciplinary team specializing in dementia and health literacy. Data were initially collected via interviews conducted among patients with MCI (n = 5) and their families (n = 5). Given the study's preliminary nature, depth and richness of the qualitative data were the key concerns for determining the sample size, rather than broad generalizability. We ensured the inclusion of diverse experiences and perspectives by facilitating the creation of patient questions (PQs) that merged scientific evidence with patient perspectives. To enhance the handbook's accessibility and utility, we continuously evaluated the same using patient interviews, health literacy tool assessments and team discussions. This comprehensive approach harmonized scientific knowledge and patient experience, leading to the development of a personalized MCI management guide.

Results

The handbook comprises nine domains, encompassing 38 selected PQs: MCI, lifestyle, lifestyle‐related diseases, exercise, nutrition, social participation, cognitive training, psychological care and family support. The health literacy handbook was evaluated based on Clear Communication Index scores. The results revealed that 73.7% of the PQs were deemed difficult prerevision, whereas only 5.3% remained challenging postrevision. The formative evaluation underscored the need for more detailed explanations prerevision, whereas postrevision comments focused primarily on editorial suggestions.

Conclusion

The inclusion of patients' perspectives right from the outset ensured that the handbook met their specific needs. The final version, which reflects all stakeholders' inputs, is now slated for imminent publication.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients and the public participated extensively throughout the project, from initial interviews to material evaluation and refinement.
The difficult challenge of accurately recording iris colour in birds revealed through the lens of specimens of Australia's Spinifex Pigeon (Geophaps plumifera)
Authors: Joseph Leo , Drew Alex , Wilson Christopher A. , Teh Julian , Viacava Pietro , Schodde Richard
Published: September 2023

Museum collections of birds are a key source of data on the colours of ‘soft parts’, e.g. legs, feet, bill (maxilla, mandible), wattles, periocular skin and, our focus here, the iris of the eye. However, subjective descriptions of soft parts' colours have long plagued their use, whether in research or in illustrations of birds. We document a case where reasonable doubt about the accuracy of iris colour recorded more than 50 years ago in several taxonomically important series of specimens of the Australian Spinifex Pigeon Geophaps plumifera is probably unresolvable. This doubt clouds the downstream use of the specimens in a complete understanding of geographical and temporal variation, and taxonomy. We discuss how ornithologists may apply methods now readily available that will enable more rigorous recording of soft parts' colours, despite many valid limitations. This especially applies in situations where existing knowledge dictates care, such as in already known zones of taxonomic intergradation or when colours known to be unusual and unexpected are seen.