bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
True Elements: leveraging opportunities for growth
Authors: Kumar V V Ravi , Bhatt Vimal
Published: January 2024

Research methodology

The research methodology used for this case study follows a comprehensive approach, combining both primary and secondary sources to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the subject. Primary sources include in-depth interviews with the founders of the company, providing valuable firsthand insights into their experiences and decision-making processes. Multiple company visits were also conducted, enabling a closer examination of the operational aspects and allowing for a more holistic perspective on the case. Complementing these primary sources, secondary sources were used, consisting of a diverse array of articles from leading journals, newspapers, magazines and other reputable sources. These secondary sources offer a broader context and perspective, enriching the case study’s content and ensuring a robust foundation for classroom discussion and analysis.

Case overview/synopsis

True Elements was a clean health food brand that emerged from the vision of Mr Sreejith Moolayil and co-founder, Mr Puru Gupta, who recognized the potential of promoting healthy foods in India inspired by the health-conscious lifestyle that they observed during their work tenure in China. The co-founders began their entrepreneurial journey in 2011 with “Healthy World” kiosks inside IT company campuses in Delhi, Mumbai and Pune. However, early challenges surfaced as the target market narrowed. Undeterred, the founders sought innovative solutions to expand their reach and created “True Elements” – a brand that resonated with health-conscious consumers given its positioning as a clean and minimally processed food brand devoid of chemicals, preservatives and added sugars. True Elements excelled in the online market and catered to a few offline markets. To sustain and augment their success, the entrepreneurs sought a strategic partnership and succeeded with Marico Ltd. However, challenges remained on the horizon. One was the need to appeal to a new target group: the 25–45 age group with a lower monthly income of INR 30,000. Another pressing question was exploring the entry into the modern trade sector.

Complexity academic level

This case can be taught in undergraduate and post-graduate business management programs for marketing, strategy and innovation and entrepreneurship related courses. Apart from that, this case can also be discussed in incubator programs as cases highlighting entrepreneurship can facilitate discussions among early-stage founders, providing practical insights and lessons for their ventures. This case also can be discussed very effectively in management classes for working executives.
Terrorism and economic complexity in Africa: The unconditional impact of military expenditure
Authors: Emeka Ekene ThankGod , Ogbuabor Jonathan E. , Ekeocha Davidmac O.
Published: January 2024

Following the rising wave of terrorism in Africa, particularly in the last decade, this study investigated the effect of terrorism on economic complexity in the region as well as the moderating role of military expenditure in the terrorism–economic complexity relationship. A panel of 34 African economies was used over the period 2010–2021. The study also used the dynamic system generalized method of moments framework. We find that the unconditional effect of terrorism on economic complexity in Africa is predominantly negative and significant, and that military expenditure in the region has been ineffective in moderating this adverse effect. This finding remained robust regardless of whether terrorism is measured by the number of terrorism incidents, fatalities, injuries, or hostages. However, our results showed that industrialization, urbanization, and governance institutional quality are potent channels for promoting economic complexity in Africa. Among others, the study emphasized the need for policymakers and leaders in Africa to collaborate at the level of the African Union to address the detrimental effects of terrorism on the continent.
International friendship cities, spatial spillover effect and urban export growth: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhou Jianjun , Cao Tingting
Published: January 2024

Using a spatial econometric model, this study investigates the impact of international friendship cities on urban exports in China at the city level. The results demonstrate a significant spatial spillover effect of international friendship cities on China's urban exports, benefiting not only the local area but also the neighbouring cities. Mechanism tests indicate that international friendship cities foster export growth in both local and adjacent cities by accumulating international social capital. Additionally, we identify a spatial spillover interval (within 700 km) and a siphonic interval (beyond 800 km) in the effect of international friendship cities on the urban exports of surrounding cities. This study sheds light on the role of international friendship cities in driving urban export growth in China.
Trans‐gender things: Objects and the materiality of trans‐femininity in Ming‐Qing China
Authors: Huang Aixia
Published: January 2024

This article demonstrates that objects, more specifically the trans usage of objects that disrupted and rearticulated the normative alignment of objects, sexed bodies and gender embodiments, served a formative role in helping male‐assigned individuals to cross gender boundaries and achieve trans‐femininity in Ming‐Qing China. The examined objects include the foot‐binding cloth for the feminine bodily image of bound feet, the embroidery needle for ‘womanly work’ and concealing underwear for feminine, penetrated sexual acts. This object‐oriented heuristic offers a new culturally specific approach to trans history beyond identarian frameworks and foregrounds the material multiplicity of trans formations and embodiments in Ming‐Qing China.
Rosemary: Unrevealing an old aromatic crop as a new source of promising functional food additive—A review
Authors: Qiu Kaidi , Wang Sasa , Duan Fangfang , Sang Zihuan , Wei Shanshan , Liu Hongxin , Tan Haibo
Published: January 2024

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is one of the most famous spice plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family as a remarkably beautiful horticultural plant and economically agricultural crop. The essential oil of rosemary has been enthusiastically welcome in the whole world for hundreds of years. Now, it is wildly prevailing as a promising functional food additive for human health. More importantly, due to its significant aroma, food, and nutritional value, rosemary also plays an essential role in the food/feed additive and food packaging industries. Modern industrial development and fundamental scientific research have extensively revealed its unique phytochemical constituents with biologically meaningful activities, which closely related to diverse human health functions. In this review, we provide a comprehensively systematic perspective on rosemary by summarizing the structures of various pharmacological and nutritional components, biologically functional activities and their molecular regulatory networks required in food developments, and the recent advances in their applications in the food industry. Finally, the temporary limitations and future research trends regarding the development of rosemary components are also discussed and prospected. Hence, the review covering the fundamental research advances and developing prospects of rosemary is a desirable demand to facilitate their better understanding, and it will also serve as a reference to provide many insights for the future promotion of the research and development of functional foods related to rosemary.
Is it possible to predict which patients are most likely to benefit from intra‐articular corticosteroid injections? A systematic review
Authors: Shekleton Florence E. , Donovan Richard L. , Wylde Vikki , Whitehouse Michael R.
Published: January 2024

Aim

Intra‐articular corticosteroid injections (IACIs) can reduce osteoarthritis‐related pain, with differing levels of response across patient groups. This systematic review investigates what is known about the positive and negative predictors of outcomes in patients with osteoarthritis who undergo IACIs.

Methods

We systematically searched the Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases to May 2023 for studies that evaluated patients undergoing IACIs for osteoarthritis and reported on predictors of outcomes in these patients.

Results

Eight studies were included. Two were placebo‐controlled trials, six were observational studies. Due to the heterogeneity of outcomes and variables between the studies, it was not possible to pool the results for formal meta‐analysis. Higher baseline pain, older age, higher BMI, lower range of movement, higher Kellgren‐Lawrence radiographic score, joint effusion, and aspiration were shown to be predictors of a positive response to IACIs in some of the included studies. However, other studies showed no difference in response with these variables, or a negative correlation with response. Sex, smoking, mental health status, hypertension/ischaemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, duration of symptoms, and socioeconomic status did not demonstrate any correlation with the prediction of positive or negative outcomes after IACIs.

Conclusion

Several patient features have been identified as positive predictors of outcomes following IACIs. However, this systematic review has identified inconsistent and variable findings across the existing literature. Further research with standardization of IACI administration and outcome measures is required to facilitate further analysis of the reliability and significance of predictive factors for response to IACIs.
How do users compare the costs between nicotine vaping products and cigarettes? Findings from the 2016–2020 International Tobacco Control United States surveys
Authors: He Yanyun , Liber Alex , Driezen Pete , Thompson Mary E. , Levy David T. , Fong Geoffrey T. , Cummings K. Michael , Shang Ce
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Nicotine vaping products (NVPs) can potentially help adult tobacco users quit smoking. This study evaluated how adult consumers compare the costs between NVPs and cigarettes.

Method

We used data from the US arm of the 2016–2020 International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping (ITC 4CV) surveys to perform a multinomial logit model with two‐way fixed effects to measure how perceived cost comparisons are associated with NVP and cigarette taxes, use patterns, NVP device types and individual sociodemographic factors.

Results

Higher cigarette taxes are associated with a greater likelihood of perceiving NVPs and cigarettes as costing the same for the overall population and among people who exclusively smoke, and a lower likelihood of perceiving NVPs as more expensive among people who exclusively vape, compared with lower cigarette taxes. Pre‐filled cartridge and tank users are more likely to perceive NVPs as less expensive than cigarettes, compared with people who use other types of NVPs. The associations between taxes and perceived cost comparison were more pronounced among males, younger and low‐income populations.

Conclusions

Higher cigarette taxes are associated with perceived financial incentives for nicotine vaping products (NVPs) over cigarettes, whereas NVP taxes are not associated with perceived cost comparison between NVPs and cigarettes.
Evaluating three strategies of genome‐wide association analysis for integrating data from multiple populations
Authors: Zhong Zhanming , Li Guangzhen , Xu Zhiting , Zeng Haonan , Teng Jinyan , Feng Xueyan , Diao Shuqi , Gao Yahui , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Zhe
Published: January 2024

In livestock, genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) are usually conducted in a single population (single‐GWAS) with limited sample size and detection power. To enhance the detection power of GWAS, meta‐analysis of GWAS (meta‐GWAS) and mega‐analysis of GWAS (mega‐GWAS) have been proposed to integrate data from multiple populations at the level of summary statistics or individual data, respectively. However, there is a lack of comparison for these different strategies, which makes it difficult to guide the best practice of GWAS integrating data from multiple study populations. To maximize the comparison of different association analysis strategies across multiple populations, we conducted single‐GWAS, meta‐GWAS, and mega‐GWAS for the backfat thickness of 100 kg (BFT_100) and days to 100 kg (DAYS_100) within each of the three commercial pig breeds (Duroc, Yorkshire, and Landrace). Based on controlling the genome inflation factor to one, we calculated corrected p‐values (pC). In Yorkshire, with the largest sample size, mega‐GWAS, meta‐GWAS and single‐GWAS detected 149, 38 and 20 significant SNPs (pC < 1E‐5) associated with BFT_100, as well as 26, four, and one QTL, respectively. Among them, pC of SNPs from mega‐GWAS was the lowest, followed by meta‐GWAS and single‐GWAS. The correlation of pC among the three GWAS strategies ranged from 0.60 to 0.75 and the correlation of SNP effect values between meta‐GWAS and mega‐GWAS was 0.74, all showing good agreement. Collectively, even though there are differences in the integration of individual data or summary statistics, integrating data from multiple populations is an effective means of genetic argument for complex traits, especially mega‐GWAS versus single‐GWAS.
Identification of population‐informative markers from high‐density genotyping data through combined feature selection and machine learning algorithms: Application to European autochthonous and cosmopolitan pig breeds
Authors: Schiavo Giuseppina , Bertolini Francesca , Bovo Samuele , Galimberti Giuliano , Muñoz María , Bozzi Riccardo , Čandek‐Potokar Marjeta , Óvilo Cristina , Fontanesi Luca
Published: January 2024

Large genotyping datasets, obtained from high‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays, developed for different livestock species, can be used to describe and differentiate breeds or populations. To identify the most discriminating genetic markers among thousands of genotyped SNPs, a few statistical approaches have been proposed. In this study, we applied the Boruta algorithm, a wrapper of the machine learning random forest algorithm, on a database of 23 European pig breeds (20 autochthonous and three cosmopolitan breeds) genotyped with a 70k SNP chip, to pre‐select informative SNPs. To identify different sets of SNPs, these pre‐selected markers were then ranked with random forest based on their mean decrease accuracy and mean decrease gene indexes. We evaluated the efficiency of these subsets for breed classification and the usefulness of this approach to detect candidate genes affecting breed‐specific phenotypes and relevant production traits that might differ among breeds. The lowest overall classification error (2.3%) was reached with a subpanel including only 398 SNPs (ranked based on their mean decrease accuracy), with no classification error in seven breeds using up to 49 SNPs. Several SNPs of these selected subpanels were in genomic regions in which previous studies had identified signatures of selection or genes associated with morphological or production traits that distinguish the analysed breeds. Therefore, even if these approaches have not been originally designed to identify signatures of selection, the obtained results showed that they could potentially be useful for this purpose.
Genome‐wide association analysis revealed new QTL and candidate genes affecting the teat number in Dutch Large White pigs
Authors: Deng Michao , Qiu Zijian , Liu Chenxi , Zhong Lijing , Fan Xinfeng , Han Yuquan , Wang Ran , Li Pinghua , Huang Ruihua , Zhao Qingbo
Published: January 2024

Teat number (TNUM) is an important reproductive trait of sows, which affects the weaning survival rate of piglets. In this study, 1166 Dutch Large White pigs with TNUM phenotype were used as the research object. These pigs were genotyped by 50K SNP chip and the chip data were further imputed to the resequencing level. The estimated heritabilities of left teat number (LTN), right teat number (RTN) and total teat number (TTN) were 0.21, 0.19 and 0.3, respectively. Based on chip data, significant SNPs for RTN on SSC2, SSC5, SSC9 and SSC13 were identified using genome‐wide association analysis (GWAS). Significant SNPs for TTN were identified on SSC2, SSC5 and SSC7. Based on imputed data, the GWAS identified a significant SNP (rs329158522) for LTN on SSC17, two significant SNPs (rs342855242 and rs80813115) for RTN on SSC2 and SSC9, and two significant SNPs (rs327003548 and rs326943811) for TTN on SSC5 and SSC6. Among them, four novel QTL were discovered. The Bayesian fine‐mapping method was used to fine map the QTL identified in the GWAS of the imputed data, and the confidence intervals of QTL affecting LTN (SSC17: 45.22–46.20 Mb), RTN (SSC9: 122.18–122.80 Mb) and TTN (SSC5: 14.01–15.91 Mb, SSC6: 120.06–121.25 Mb) were detected. A total of 52 candidate genes were obtained. Furthermore, we identified five candidate genes, WNT10B, AQP5, FMNL3, NUAK1 and CKAP4, for the first time, which involved in breast development and other related functions by gene annotation. Overall, this study provides new molecular markers for the breeding of teat number in pigs.
Architectural design, facilities and family participation in neonatal units in Spain: A multicentre study
Authors: Solís‐García Gonzalo , Cambra‐Rufino Laura , Piris Borregas Salvador , Carrasco Pérez Andrea , López Maestro María , De la Cruz Bértolo Javier , Moral Pumarega María Teresa , Pallás Alonso Carmen Rosa
Published: January 2024

Aim

The architecture of neonatal units plays a key role in developmental strategies and preterm outcomes. The aim was to evaluate the design of Spanish neonatal units and its impact on the participation of parents in neonatal care.

Methods

A web‐based survey was sent to all level III Spanish neonatal units, including questions about hospital data, architectural design, facilities and family participation.

Results

The study included 63 units. Most units (87%) had part or all the intensive care patients located in open bay units, while 54% had at least one individual patient cubicle. Single family rooms, defined as those including enough space and furniture for family members to stay with the infant without restrictions, were available in 8 units (13%). Eighteen units (29%) had a structured programme of family education. Units with single family rooms were more likely to have parental participation in rounds (p < 0.01), safety protocols (p = 0.02), oxygen management (p < 0.01) and nasogastric tube feeding (p = 0.02), as well as to allow siblings to participate in kangaroo care (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Widely variable architectural designs and policies were found in Spanish neonatal units. The presence of single family rooms may have impacted the participation of parents in neonatal care.
A possible production area of Chinese faience? Reference to beads decorating coffins from Shijia Yucun site, Gansu Province
Authors: Cao Shiyuan , Wang Yongan , Wen Rui , Sun Feng , Ren Yubo
Published: January 2024

Shijia Yucun site is a northwestern settlement from the Zhou period (1046–221 BCE). Faience beads used as a personal ornament and coffin decoration are notable among plenty of funerary objects. Thirteen faience objects are determined using analytical electron probe micro‐analysis (EPMA) and scanning electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS). The information on their provenance indicates that the types of faience beads around bodies include the mixed‐alkali faience from Europe or the Eurasian Steppe, the soda‐enriched faience from West Asia, and the local products rich in potash. However, faience samples adorning coffins are all local products, and the quality is rougher compared to the faience decorating the body. This unique feature is hardly found in other tombs of Zhou elites. As faience was a precious personal ornament in other stronger polities, it was already available as a general coffin decoration in such a small‐economy feudal state, so faience samples decorating coffins were not likely to be precious gifts from other elites. It is reasonable to assume that faience beads adorning coffins might have been made near the ruins. This investigation is significant to reveal the cultural exchange in the western frontier of the Zhou realm that dates back to the power decline of the Western Zhou period and highlight a possible high‐potash faience production area.
Seeing Feelingly: A Sight‐Impaired Observer's Reflections on an Infant Observation during the Covid‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Hopkins Jo
Published: January 2024

The author reflects on the experience of conducting an infant observation from their perspective of having a sight impairment encapsulated in the phrase ‘seeing feelingly’ taken from Shakespeare's play King Lear. The multi‐sensory and somatic world of the infant is explored where sight is secondary to touch in early infancy and how this reflects something of the observer's way of experiencing the world. The impact of disability on how the author sees themselves and is seen by others is discussed in terms of the defences of projection, projective identification and disavowal. The COVID‐19 pandemic and the necessity of remote observations via video link add another angle from which emotional connection is explored, leading the author to conclude that, although greater visual clarity was gained, emotional contact was diminished. The paradox of a sight‐impaired person ‘observing’ challenges the privileging of the sense of sight, suggesting that a more multi‐sensory approach could be of benefit to the conduct of infant observations. In addition, the very title ‘infant observation’ might deter others with sight impairment from participation.
Chrysophanol induces apoptosis and ferroptosis of gastric cancer cells by targeted regulation of mTOR
Authors: Xi Sujuan , Ding Wei , Weng Danping , Zeng Yue , Gao Kewei , Wu Qiuye , Huang Guoping , Li Yufang , Yue Haiyan
Published: January 2024

Programmed cell death (PCD) induction is a promising strategy for killing gastric cancer cells. In this study, we investigated the effects of chrysophanol on apoptosis and ferroptosis in gastric cancer cells. Chrysophanol in concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 μM were used to treat GES‐1, HGC‐27 and AGS cells. Cell counting kit‐8 assay, colony formation assay, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine staining, flow cytometry, JC‐1 probe insertion, dihydroethidium staining and western blotting were performed. The effects of chrysophanol on gastric cancer cells were evaluated in vivo using a xenograft mouse model. Chrysophanol had no cytotoxic effects on GES‐1 cells. Chrysophanol with concentrations higher than 25 μM inhibited gastric cancer cell colony formation and proliferation. Chrysophanol induces gastric cancer cell apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner, accompanied by mitochondrial membrane potential dysfunction and cytochrome c release. Additionally, chrysophanol increased the levels of reactive oxygen species, total iron, and Fe2+ in HGC‐27 and AGS cells, in a dose‐dependent manner. Treatment of cells with the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin‐1 attenuated the effects of chrysophanol on cell survival and the expression of ferroptosis markers SLC7A11 and GPX4. Screening by GEO software indicated that the mTOR signalling pathway is possibly regulated by chrysophanol. Furthermore, mTOR overexpression significantly reversed the inhibitory effects of chrysophanol on gastric cancer cells. In gastric cancer xenograft mouse models, chrysophanol treatment inhibited tumour growth and downregulated SLC7A11 and GPX4. Chrysophanol induces apoptosis and ferroptosis, making it a potential candidate for killing gastric cancer cells. The beneficial effects of chrysophanol may be attribute to the targeted regulation of mTOR.
School victimization and psychosocial adjustment among Eastern European adopted adolescents across Europe
Authors: Cáceres Isabel , Palacios Jesús , Ferrari Laura , Ranieri Sonia , Rosnati Rosa , Miller Laurie C. , Theie Steinar , Carrera Pablo , de Montclos Marie‐Odile Pérouse , Román Maite
Published: January 2024

Background

Little is known about bullying experienced by internationally adopted teens residing in Europe.

Objectives

Within the framework of an international research effort involving several European countries, the main goal of this study was to explore the experiences of bullying victimization suffered by adopted adolescents, as well as its impact on their psychological adjustment.

Methods

The sample consisted of 199 adolescents born in Eastern European countries and adopted in France (n = 50), Italy (n = 59), Norway (n = 25) and Spain (n = 65).

Results

More than half of the adopted adolescents had been exposed to some form of peer victimization in the previous 2 months, with verbal harassment and social exclusion being the most common forms of victimization. Differences between receiving countries were not statistically significant, suggesting a common pattern for Eastern European adopted adolescents living in Western Europe. More frequent experiences of peer victimization were associated with more psychological difficulties among the adopted adolescents.

Conclusions

Findings highlight that adopted adolescents might have considerable difficulties in social integration with peers; these experiences of peer victimization might play an important role hindering their psychosocial adjustment. The socioemotional development of adopted people is not only linked to their pre‐adoptive experiences; factors in their daily lives (i.e., peer relationships) may also be associated with their psychological adjustment later in life. Interventions are needed to promote the real inclusion of these groups of children in their social and educational contexts.
Behaviour change intervention for toothbrushing (lesson and text messages) to prevent dental caries in secondary school pupils: The BRIGHT randomized control trial
Authors: Innes Nicola , Fairhurst Caroline , Whiteside Katie , Ainsworth Hannah , Sykes Debbie , El Yousfi Sarab , Turner Emma , Chestnutt Ivor G. , Keetharuth Anju , Dixon Simon , Day Peter F. , Seifo Nassar , Gilchrist Fiona , Hicks Katie , Kellar Ian , Al‐Yaseen Waraf , Araujo Mariana , Dey Donna , Hewitt Catherine , Pavitt Sue , Robertson Mark , Torgerson David , Marshman Zoe
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This multicentre, assessor‐blinded, two‐arm cluster randomized trial evaluated the clinical and cost‐effectiveness of a behaviour change intervention promoting toothbrushing for preventing dental caries in UK secondary schools.

Methods

Pupils aged 11–13 years with their own mobile telephone attending secondary schools with above average free school meals eligibility were randomized (at year‐group level) to receive a lesson and twice‐daily text messages or to usual care. Year‐groups (n = 84) from 42 schools including 4680 pupils (intervention, n = 2262; control, n = 2418) were randomized.

Results

In 2383 participants with valid data at baseline and 2.5 years, the primary outcome of presence of at least one treated or untreated carious lesion (D4‐6 MFT [Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth] in permanent teeth using International Caries Detection and Assessment System) was 44.6% in the intervention group and 43.0% in control (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 0.85–1.26, p = .72). There were no statistically significant differences in secondary outcomes of presence of at least one treated or untreated carious lesion (D1‐6 MFT), number of D4‐6 MFT and D1‐6 MFT, plaque and bleeding scores or health‐related‐ (Child Health Utility 9D) or oral health‐related‐ quality of life (CARIES‐QC). However, twice‐daily toothbrushing, reported by 77.6% of pupils at baseline, increased at 6 months (intervention, 86.9%; control, 83.0%; OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03–1.63, p = .03), but returned to no difference at 2.5 years (intervention, 81.0%; control, 79.9%; OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.84–1.30, p = .69). Estimated incremental costs and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) of the intervention, relative to control, were £1.02 (95% CI −1.29 to 3.23) and −0.003 (95% CI −0.009 to 0.002), respectively, with a 7% chance of being cost‐effective (£20 000/QALY gained threshold).

Conclusion

There was no evidence of statistically significant difference for caries prevalence at 2.5‐years. The intervention's positive 6‐month toothbrushing behaviour change did not translate into caries reduction. (ISRCTN 12139369). COVID‐19 pandemic adversly affected follow‐up.
Glycolysis: An early marker for vancomycin‐specific T‐cell activation
Authors: Gardner Joshua , Hammond Sean , Jensen Rebecca , Gibson Andrew , Krantz Matthew S. , Ardern‐Jones Michael , Phillips Elizabeth J. , Pirmohamed Munir , Chadwick Amy E. , Betts Catherine , Naisbitt Dean J.
Published: January 2024

Background

Vancomycin, a glycopeptide antibiotic used for Gram‐positive bacterial infections, has been linked with drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) in HLA‐A*32:01‐expressing individuals. This is associated with activation of T lymphocytes, for which glycolysis has been isolated as a fuel pathway following antigenic stimulation. However, the metabolic processes that underpin drug‐reactive T‐cell activation are currently undefined and may shed light on the energetic conditions needed for the elicitation of drug hypersensitivity or tolerogenic pathways. Here, we sought to characterise the immunological and metabolic pathways involved in drug‐specific T‐cell activation within the context of DRESS pathogenesis using vancomycin as model compound and drug‐reactive T‐cell clones (TCCs) generated from healthy donors and vancomycin‐hypersensitive patients.

Methods

CD4+ and CD8+ vancomycin‐responsive TCCs were generated by serial dilution. The Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer was used to measure the extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) as an indicator of glycolytic function. Additionally, T‐cell proliferation and cytokine release (IFN‐γ) assay were utilised to correlate the bioenergetic characteristics of T‐cell activation with in vitro assays.

Results

Model T‐cell stimulants induced non‐specific T‐cell activation, characterised by immediate augmentation of ECAR and rate of ATP production (JATPglyc). There was a dose‐dependent and drug‐specific glycolytic shift when vancomycin‐reactive TCCs were exposed to the drug. Vancomycin‐reactive TCCs did not exhibit T‐cell cross‐reactivity with structurally similar compounds within proliferative and cytokine readouts. However, cross‐reactivity was observed when analysing energetic responses; TCCs with prior specificity for vancomycin were also found to exhibit glycolytic switching after exposure to teicoplanin. Glycolytic activation of TCC was HLA restricted, as exposure to HLA blockade attenuated the glycolytic induction.

Conclusion

These studies describe the glycolytic shift of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells following vancomycin exposure. Since similar glycolytic switching is observed with teicoplanin, which did not activate T cells, it is possible the master switch for T‐cell activation is located upstream of metabolic signalling.
Does Lexical Coordination Affect Epistemic and Practical Trust? The Role of Conceptual Pacts
Authors: Pozzi Mélinda , Bangerter Adrian , Mazzarella Diana
Published: January 2024

The present study investigated whether humans are more likely to trust people who are coordinated with them. We examined a well‐known type of linguistic coordination, lexical entrainment, typically involving the elaboration of “conceptual pacts,” or partner‐specific agreements on how to conceptualize objects. In two experiments, we manipulated lexical entrainment in a referential communication task and measured the effect of this manipulation on epistemic and practical trust. Our results showed that participants were more likely to trust a coordinated partner than an uncoordinated one, but only when the latter broke previously established conceptual pacts.
Cardiopulmonary progenitors facilitate cardiac repair via exosomal transfer of miR‐27b‐3p targeting the SIK1‐CREB1 axis
Authors: Xiao Ying‐Ying , Xia Luo‐Xing , Jiang Wen‐Jing , Qin Jian‐Feng , Zhao Li‐Xin , Li Zhan , Huang Li‐Juan , Li Ke‐Xin , Yu Peng‐Jiu , Wei Li , Jiang Xue‐Yan , Chen Zhe‐Sheng , Yu Xi‐Yong
Published: January 2024

Ischemic heart disease, especially myocardial infarction (MI), is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and desperately needs effective treatments, such as cell therapy. Cardiopulmonary progenitors (CPPs) are stem cells for both heart and lung, but their repairing role in damaged heart is still unknown. Here, we obtained CPPs from E9.5 mouse embryos, maintained their stemness while expanding, and identified their characteristics by scRNA‐seq, flow cytometry, quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, and differentiation assays. Moreover, we employed mouse MI model to investigate whether CPPs could repair the injured heart. Our data identified that CPPs exhibit hybrid fibroblastic, endothelial, and mesenchymal state, and they could differentiate into cell lineages within the cardiopulmonary system. Moreover, intramyocardial injection of CPPs improves cardiac function through CPPs exosomes (CPPs‐Exo) by promotion of cardiomyocytic proliferation and vascularization. To uncover the underlying mechanism, we used miRNA‐seq, bulk RNA‐seq, and bioinformatic approaches, and found the highly expressed miR‐27b‐3p in CPPs‐Exo and its target gene Sik1, which can influence the transcriptional activity of CREB1. Therefore, we postulate that CPPs facilitate cardiac repair partially through the SIK1‐CREB1 axis via exosomal miR‐27b‐3p. Our study offers a novel insight into the role of CPPs‐Exo in heart repair and highlights the potential of CPPs‐Exo as a promising therapeutic strategy for MI.
Mouse islet‐derived stellate cells are similar to, but distinct from, mesenchymal stromal cells and influence the beta cell function
Authors: Xu Wei , Zhou Yunting , Wang Tianyuan , Ni Chengming , Wang Chunlei , Li Rui , Liu Xuekui , Liang Jun , Hong Tzu‐wen , Liu Bo , King Aileen J. F. , Persaud Shanta J. , Sun Zilin , Jones Peter M.
Published: January 2024

Aims

Evidence is accumulating of the therapeutic benefits of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in diabetes‐related conditions. We have identified a novel population of stromal cells within islets of Langerhans – islet stellate cells (ISCs) – which have a similar morphology to MSCs. In this study we characterize mouse ISCs and compare their morphology and function to MSCs to determine whether ISCs may also have therapeutic potential in diabetes.

Methods

ISCs isolated from mouse islets were compared to mouse bone marrow MSCs by analysis of cell morphology; expression of cell‐surface markers and extracellular matrix (ECM) components; proliferation; apoptosis; paracrine activity; and differentiation into adipocytes, chondrocytes and osteocytes. We also assessed the effects of co‐culture with ISCs or MSCs on the insulin secretory capacity of islet beta cells.

Results

Although morphological similar, ISCs were functionally distinct from MSCs. Thus, ISCs were less proliferative and more apoptotic; they had different expression levels of important paracrine factors; and they were less efficient at differentiation down multiple lineages. Co‐culture of mouse islets with ISCs enhanced glucose induced insulin secretion more effectively than co‐culture with MSCs.

Conclusions

ISCs are a specific sub‐type of islet‐derived stromal cells that possess biological behaviors distinct from MSCs. The enhanced beneficial effects of ISCs on islet beta cell function suggests that they may offer a therapeutic target for enhancing beta cell functional survival in diabetes.
Criminality in patients with autoimmune encephalitis: A case series
Authors: Michael Sophia , Varley James , Williams Robyn , Bajorek Tomasz , Easton Ava , Irani Sarosh R.
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

Despite it being an immunotherapy‐responsive neurological syndrome, patients with autoimmune encephalitis (AE) frequently exhibit residual neurobehavioural features. Here, we report criminal behaviours as a serious and novel postencephalitic association.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 301 AE patients. Five of who committed crimes underwent direct assessments and records review alongside autoantibody studies.

Results

Five of 301 patients (1.7%) with AE exhibited criminal behaviours, which included viewing child pornography (n = 3), repeated shoplifting, and conspiracy to commit murder. All five were adult males, with LGI1 autoantibodies (n = 3), CASPR2 autoantibodies, or seronegative AE. None had evidence of premorbid antisocial personality traits or psychiatric disorders. Criminal behaviours began a median of 18 months (range = 15 months–12 years) after encephalitis onset. At the time of crimes, two patients were immunotherapy‐naïve, three had been administered late immunotherapies (at 5 weeks–4 months), many neurobehavioural features persisted, and new obsessive behaviours had appeared. However, cognition, seizure, and disability measures had improved, alongside reduced autoantibody levels.

Conclusions

Criminal behaviours are a rare, novel, and stigmatizing residual neurobehavioural phenotype in AE, with significant social and legal implications. With caution towards overattribution, we suggest they occur as part of a postencephalitis limbic neurobehavioural syndrome.
The cost of crossing gender boundaries: Trans women of color and the racialized workplace gender order
Authors: Greene Joss , Ervin Woods
Published: January 2024

How does persistent and cumulative gender regulation produce economic insecurity? Trans people face markedly high levels of workplace discrimination, unemployment, and poverty, and therefore offer unique insight into this question. Prior research theorizes how trans workers get repositioned in a binary, patriarchal gender order, but we lack a conceptual model to explain the labor market experience of people who are systematically sanctioned as gender deviants. By analyzing work history interviews from 23 trans women of color based across the United States, this article argues that crossing gender boundaries is a racialized experience that can come with an economic cost. After transitioning, trans women of color face three forms of economic sanctioning: exclusion, a racially gendered glass ceiling, and constrained employment options within a segmented labor market. Thus, work organizations premised on a hierarchical classification scheme have the option, not only to reposition people on the basis of a classification change, but to deem them unassimilable.
Effect of PyC/BN interfacial phases on mechanical behavior of SiC/SiC composites
Authors: Qiu Haipeng , Zhang Qiyue , Luo Wendong , Xie Weijie , Ma Xin , Zhang Bingyu , Chen Yi , Chen Mingwei
Published: January 2024

PyC/BN multiphase interfacial phases were prepared on the surface of SiC fiber preform, then the near stoichiometric ratio SiC fiber reinforced SiC ceramic matrix composites were obtained by polymer impregnation and pyrolysis (PIP) process. The mechanical behavior of SiC/SiC composites was characterized by three‐point bending tests and fracture toughness tests. The stress release and load transfer effects of the interfaces under external loads were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results showed that with the increasing of PyC component thickness from .10 to.30 µm in the PyC/BN multiphase interfacial phases, the bending strength and fracture toughness both increased first and then decreased. The results occurred due to the competition between load transfer and stress release of the interfaces. The relatively optimized interfacial phase structure was that the thickness of the PyC interfacial phase and BN interfacial phase were .20 and.30 µm. The bending strength and fracture toughness of the optimized SiC/SiC composites reached 660.65 MPa and 29.01 MPa•m1/2. Respectively, many matrix cracks appeared in the horizontal and vertical directions, occupying almost the entire fracture section. The growth path of the matrix crack was significantly increased with many long fibers pulled out and broken, which was conducive to the strengthening and toughening of SiC/SiC composites.
The relationship between self‐regulated learning strategy use and task engagement
Authors: Zare Javad , Delavar Khadijeh Aqajani , Derakhshan Ali , Pawlak Mirosław
Published: January 2024

Drawing on the explanatory sequential mixed‐methods design, the present study aims to investigate the relationship, if any, between self‐regulated learning (SRL) strategy use and task engagement. The participants of the study were 361 Iranian EFL students majoring in English language teaching or English language and literature for the B.A. degree, with a B1 English language proficiency level, based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Questionnaire surveys, narrative frames, and semi‐structured interviews were used to collect the data remotely during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The results of quantitative data analysis showed that SRL strategy use is a significant predictor of task engagement. The results of the qualitative analysis also pointed to the importance of SRL strategies, including (meta)cognitive, (meta)affective, (meta)motivational, and (meta)social strategies, to maintain task engagement. The results of the study may be used to inform English language teachers, learners, materials developers, and measurement instrument developers.
Two inclusion complexes of cinnamon essential oil and lemongrass essential oil with β‐CD: preparation, characterisation and effect on the preservation of mango fruits
Authors: Phan Chiuyen , Do Thithuyvan , Thuong Thikimphuong
Published: January 2024

Mango is a nutritious fruit but susceptible to the development of black spots on its skin, which can significantly reduce the post‐harvest fruit quality. In response to this challenge, this study focused on preparing and characterising two inclusion complexes (ICs) by combining cinnamon essential oil (CEO) and lemongrass essential oil (LEO) with β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD), named CEO‐β‐CD and LEO‐β‐CD. Their effectiveness in preserving mango fruit were evaluated. The findings demonstrated the successful encapsulation of essential oils by β‐CD, forming two distinct ICs. Moreover, these ICs notably extended the shelf‐life of mangoes by 40% and 25%, respectively, while reducing black spot occurrence on the fruit skin. Additionally, analysis of physicochemical parameters revealed that the CEO‐β‐CD IC, at a dosage of 2.5 mg per gram of mango, could notably enhance the overall fruit quality. In conclusion, the application of CEO‐β‐CD, at an appropriate concentration, exhibits promising potential as an effective preservative for mangoes.
Exploring NICU nurses' views of a novel genetic point‐of‐care test identifying neonates at risk of antibiotic‐induced ototoxicity: A qualitative study
Authors: Brown Georgia , Warrington Natalie , Ulph Fiona , Booth Nicola , Harvey Karen , James Rachel , Tricker Karen , Wilson Paul , Newman William , Mcdermott John Henry , Stoddard Duncan , Mahaveer Ajit , Turner Mark , Corry Rachel , Garlick Julia , Miele Gino , Ainsworth Shaun , Kemp Laura , Bruce Iain , Body Richard , Roberts Peter , Macleod Rhona
Published: January 2024

Aim

To explore the views of neonatal intensive care nursing staff on the deliverability of a novel genetic point‐of‐care test detecting a genetic variant associated with antibiotic‐induced ototoxicity.

Design

An interpretive, descriptive, qualitative interview study.

Methods

Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews undertaken between January and November 2020. Participants were neonatal intensive care nursing staff taking part in the Pharmacogenetics to Avoid Loss of Hearing trial.

Results

Thematic analysis resulted in four themes: perceived clinical utility; the golden hour; point‐of‐care device; training and support. Recommendations were made to streamline the protocol and ongoing training and support were considered key to incorporating the test into routine care.

Conclusion

Exploring the views of nurses involved in the delivery of the point‐of‐care test was essential in its implementation. By the study endpoint, all participants could see the value of routine clinical introduction of the point‐of care test.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Nurses are in a key position to support the delivery of point‐of‐care genetic testing into mainstream settings. This study has implications for the successful integration of other genetic point‐of‐care tests in acute healthcare settings.

Impact

The study will help to tailor the training and support required for routine deployment of the genetic point‐of‐care test. The study has relevance for nurses involved in the development and delivery of genetic point‐of‐care tests in other acute hospital settings.

Reporting Method

This qualitative study adheres to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research EQUATOR guidelines and utilizes COREQ and SRQR checklists.

Patient or Public Contribution

All staff working on the participating neonatal intensive care units were trained to use the genetic point‐of‐care test. All inpatients on the participating units were eligible to have testing via the point‐of‐care test. The Pharmacogenetics to Avoid Loss of Hearing Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement group provided valuable feedback.

Trial and Protocol Registration

Registered within the University of Manchester. Ethics approval reference numbers: IRAS: 253102 REC reference: 19/NW/0400. Also registered with the ISRCTN ref: ISRCTN13704894.
Differences in physical activity volume and intensity between Unified and non‐Unified Special Olympics football training: An observational pilot study
Authors: Kreinbucher‐Bekerle Christoph , Perkounig Tobias Maximilian , Novak Bernhard , Sattler Matteo Christian
Published: January 2024

Background

The participation of people with intellectual disabilities in Special Olympics sports and training opportunities offers numerous benefits for health and inclusion. However, little is known about the impact of such training on physical activity behaviour. Here, we evaluate the differences in physical activity volume and intensity of Special Olympics athletes between Unified and non‐Unified football training.

Method

Accelerometer data of 12 male athletes from eight standardised training sessions (four Unified, four non‐Unified) were analysed.

Results

While there was no statistically significant difference for the main part of the training, athletes showed higher levels of physical activity intensity (MVPA: Mdiff = 11.74%; 95% CI = 5.50–17.97) and volume (average acceleration ENMO: Mdiff = 112.82 mg; 95% CI = 24.73–200.90) in a Unified compared to non‐Unified endurance‐related exercise task.

Conclusion

Understanding physical activity participation in different training types can help to design and implement future training programmes.