bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorylation of AHR by PLK1 promotes metastasis of LUAD via DIO2-TH signaling
Authors: Li Chaohao , Allison Derek B. , He Daheng , Mao Fengyi , Wang Xinyi , Rychahou Piotr , Imam Ibrahim A. , Kong Yifan , Zhang Qiongsi , Zhang Yanquan , Liu Jinghui , Wang Ruixin , Rao Xiongjian , Wu Sai , Shao Qing , Wang Chi , Li Zhiguo , Liu Xiaoqi
Published: August 2023

Metastasis of Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major cause of death in patients. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is an important transcription factor involved in the initiation and progression of lung cancer. Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a serine/threonine kinase, is an oncogene that promotes the malignancy of multiple cancer types. Nonetheless, the interaction between these two factors and significance in lung cancer remains to be determined. Here, we demonstrate that PLK1 phosphorylates AHR at S489 in LUAD, which leads to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastatic events. RNA-seq analyses show that type 2 deiodinase (DIO2) is responsible for EMT and enhanced metastatic potential. DIO2 converts tetraiodothyronine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), which then activates thyroid hormone signaling. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that treatment with T3 or T4 promotes the metastasis of LUAD, whereas depletion of DIO2 or deiodinase inhibitor disrupts this property. Taken together, our results identify the phosphorylation of AHR by PLK1 as a mechanism leading to the progression of LUAD and provide possible therapeutic interventions for this event.
Neural substrates of cold nociception inDrosophilalarva
Authors: Patel Atit A. , Cardona Albert , Cox Daniel N.
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Metazoans detect and differentiate between innocuous (non-painful) and/or noxious (harmful) environmental cues using primary sensory neurons, which serve as the first node in a neural network that computes stimulus specific behaviors to either navigate away from injury- causing conditions or to perform protective behaviors that mitigate extensive injury. The ability of an animal to detect and respond to various sensory stimuli depends upon molecular diversity in the primary sensors and the underlying neural circuitry responsible for the relevant behavioral action selection. Recent studies inDrosophilalarvae have revealed that somatosensory class III multidendritic (CIII md) neurons function as multimodal sensors regulating distinct behavioral responses to innocuous mechanical and nociceptive thermal stimuli. Recent advances in circuit bases of behavior have identified and functionally validatedDrosophilalarval somatosensory circuitry involved in innocuous (mechanical) and noxious (heat and mechanical) cues. However, central processing of cold nociceptive cues remained unexplored. We implicate multisensory integrators (Basins), premotor (Down-and-Back) and projection (A09e and TePns) neurons as neural substrates required for cold-evoked behavioral and calcium responses. Neural silencing of cell types downstream of CIII md neurons led to significant reductions in cold-evoked behaviors and neural co-activation of CIII md neurons plus additional cell types facilitated larval contraction (CT) responses. Further, we demonstrate that optogenetic activation of CIII md neurons evokes calcium increases in these neurons. Finally, we characterize the premotor to motor neuron network underlying cold-evoked CT and delineate the muscular basis of CT response. Collectively, we demonstrate howDrosophilalarvae process cold stimuli through functionally diverse somatosensory circuitry responsible for generating stimulus-specific behaviors.
Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals characteristics of myeloid cells in pulmonary post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Yoon Hyundong , Dean Logan S. , Jiyarom Boonyanudh , Khadka Vedbar , Deng Youping , Nerurukar Vivek R. , Chow Dominic C. , Shikuma Cecilia M. , Devendra Gehan , Koh Youngil , Park Juwon
Published: August 2023

Background

Although our understanding of the immunopathology and subsequent risk and severity of COVID-19 disease is evolving, a detailed account of immune responses that contribute to the long-term consequences of pulmonary complication in COVID-19 infection remain unclear. Few studies have detailed the immune and cytokine profiles associated with post-acute sequalae of SARS-CoV-2 infection with persistent pulmonary symptoms (PPASC). However, the dysregulation of the immune system that drives pulmonary sequelae in COVID-19 survivors and PASC sufferers remains largely unknown.

Results

To characterize the immunological features of pulmonary PASC (PPASC), we performed droplet-based single-cell RNA sequencing to study the transcriptomic profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from participants naïve to SARS-CoV-2 (Control) and infected with SARS-CoV-2 with chronic pulmonary symptoms (PPASC). We analyzed more than 34,139 PBMCs by integrating our dataset with previously reported control datasets (GSM4509024) cell distribution. In total, 11 distinct cell populations were identified based on the expression of canonical markers. The proportion of myeloid-lineage cells ([MLCs]; CD14+/CD16+monocytes and dendritic cells) was increased in PPASC compared to controls. MLCs from PPASC displayed up-regulation of genes associated with pulmonary symptoms/fibrosis, while glycolysis metabolism-related genes were downregulated. Similarly, pathway analysis showed that fibrosis- related (VEGF,WNT, andSMAD) and cell death pathways were up-regulated, but immune pathways were down-regulated in PPASC. In PPASC, we observed interactiveVEGFligand- receptor pairs among MLCs, and network modules in CD14+(cluster 4) and CD16+(Cluster 5) monocytes displayed a significant enrichment for biological pathways linked to adverse COVID- 19 outcomes, fibrosis, and angiogenesis. Further analysis revealed a distinct metabolic alteration in MLCs with a down-regulation of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in PPASC compared to SARS- CoV-2 naïve samples.

Conclusion

This study offers valuable insights into the immune response and cellular landscape in PPASC. The presence of elevated MLC levels and their corresponding gene signatures associated with fibrosis, immune response suppression, and altered metabolic states suggests their potential role as a driver of PPASC.
The relationship between diet, plasma glucose, and cancer prevalence across vertebrates
Authors: Kapsetaki Stefania E. , Basile Anthony J. , Compton Zachary T. , Rupp Shawn M. , Duke Elizabeth G. , Boddy Amy M. , Harrison Tara M. , Sweazea Karen L. , Maley Carlo C.
Published: August 2023

Could diet and mean plasma glucose concentration (MPGluC) explain the variation in cancer prevalence across species? We collected diet, MPGluC, and neoplasia data for 160 vertebrate species from existing databases. We found that MPGluC negatively correlates with cancer and neoplasia prevalence, mostly of gastrointestinal organs. Trophic level positively correlates with cancer and neoplasia prevalence even after controlling for species MPGluC. Most species with high MPGluC (50/78 species = 64.1%) were birds. Most species in high trophic levels (42/53 species = 79.2%) were reptiles and mammals. Our results may be explained by the evolution of insulin resistance in birds which selected for loss or downregulation of genes related to insulin-mediated glucose import in cells. This led to higher MPGluC, intracellular caloric restriction, production of fewer reactive oxygen species and inflammatory cytokines, and longer telomeres contributing to longer longevity and lower neoplasia prevalence in extant birds relative to other vertebrates.
Borg extrachromosomal elements of methane-oxidizing archaea have conserved and expressed genetic repertoires
Authors: Schoelmerich Marie C. , Ly Lynn , West-Roberts Jacob , Shi Ling-Dong , Shen Cong , Malvankar Nikhil S. , Taib Najwa , Gribaldo Simonetta , Woodcroft Ben J. , Schadt Christopher W. , Al-Shayeb Basem , Dai Xiaoguang , Mozsary Christopher , Hickey Scott , He Christine , Beaulaurier John , Juul Sissel , Sachdeva Rohan , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: August 2023

Borgs are huge extrachromosomal elements (ECE) of anaerobic methane-consuming “CandidatusMethanoperedens” archaea. Here, we used nanopore sequencing to validate published complete genomes curated from short reads and to reconstruct new genomes. 13 complete and four near-complete linear genomes share 40 genes that define a largely syntenous genome backbone. We use these conserved genes to identify new Borgs from peatland soil and to delineate Borg phylogeny, revealing two major clades. Remarkably, Borg genes encoding OmcZ nanowire-like electron-exporting cytochromes and cell surface proteins are more highly expressed than those of hostMethanoperedens, indicating that Borgs augment theMethanoperedensactivityin situ. We reconstructed the first complete 4.00 Mbp genome for aMethanoperedensthat is inferred to be a Borg host and predicted its methylation motifs, which differ from pervasive TC and CC methylation motifs of the Borgs. Thus, methylation may enableMethanoperedensto distinguish their genomes from those of Borgs. Very high Borg toMethanoperedensratios and structural predictions suggest that Borgs may be capable of encapsulation. The findings clearly define Borgs as a distinct class of ECE with shared genomic signatures, establish their diversification from a common ancestor with genetic inheritance, and raise the possibility of periodic existence outside of host cells.
Microclimate Shapes the Phylosymbiosis of Rodent Gut Microbiota in Jordan’s Great Rift Valley
Authors: Al-khlifeh Enas , Khadem Sanaz , Hausmann Bela , Berry David
Published: August 2023

Host phylogeny and the environment play vital roles in shaping animal microbiomes. However, the effects of these variables on the diversity and richness of the gut microbiome in different bioclimatic zones remain underexplored. In this study, we investigated the effects of host phylogeny and bioclimatic zone on the diversity and composition of the gut microbiota of two heterospecific rodent species, the spiny mouseAcomys cahirinusand the house mouseMus musculus, in three bioclimatic zones of the African Great Rift Valley (GRV). We confirmed host phylogeny using theD-loopsequencing method and analyzed the influence of host phylogeny and bioclimatic zone parameters on the rodent gut microbiome using high-throughput amplicon sequencing of 16S rRNA gene fragments. Phylogenetic analysis supported the morphological identification of the rodents and revealed a marked genetic difference between the two heterospecific species. We found that bioclimatic zone had a significant effect on the gut microbiota composition while host phylogeny did not. Microbial alpha diversity of heterospecific hosts was highest in the Mediterranean forest bioclimatic zone, followed by the Irano–Turranian shrubland, and was lowest in the Sudanian savanna tropical zone. The beta diversity of the two rodent species showed significant differences across the Mediterranean, Irano–Turranian, and Sudanian regions. The phylaFirmicutesandBacteroideteswere highly abundant, andDeferribacterota, CyanobacteriaandProteobacteriawere also prominent. Amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were identified that were unique to the Sudanian bioclimatic zone. The core microbiota families recovered in this study were consistent among heterospecific hosts. However, diversity decreased in conspecific host populations found at lower altitudes in Sudanian bioclimatic zone. The composition of the gut microbiota is linked to the adaptation of the host to its environment, and this study underscores the importance of incorporating climatic factors such as elevation and ambient temperature, in empirical microbiome research and is the first to describe the rodent gut microbiome from the GRV.
The host RNA polymerase II C-terminal domain is the anchor for replication of the influenza virus genome
Authors: Krischuns T , Arragain B , Isel C , Paisant S , Budt M , Wolff T , Cusack S , Naffakh N
Published: August 2023

The current model is that the influenza virus polymerase (FluPol) binds either to host RNA polymerase II (RNAP II) or to the acidic nuclear phosphoprotein 32 (ANP32), which drives its conformation and activity towards transcription or replication of the viral genome, respectively. Here, we provide evidence that the FluPol-RNAP II binding interface has a so far overlooked function for replication of the viral genome. Using a combination of cell-based andin vitroapproaches, we show that the RNAP II C-terminal-domain, jointly with ANP32, enhances FluPol replication activity and we propose a model in which the host RNAP II is the anchor for transcription and replication of the viral genome. Our data open new perspectives on the spatial coupling of viral transcription and replication and the coordinated balance between these two activities.
The role of founder CEO and independent board in family firms' international growth: evidence from India and Italy
Authors: Kerai Anita , Marzano Riccardo , Piscitello Lucia , Singla Chitra
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper investigates the role of the founder CEO and board independence in shaping the way in which Indian and Italian family firms (FFs) pursue international growth via two modes, that is exports and FDI. This article claims that country's context matters in determining the relationship between the presence of the founder CEO and FFs' extent of exports and extent of FDI. Further, this article examines the moderating role of board independence on the above-mentioned founder CEO–FF's international growth relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a fixed-effect panel data method, this article tests the hypotheses on a sample of 1,275 Indian FF-year observations and 705 Italian FF-year observations over the period 2008–2015.

Findings

This article reveals that the presence of a founder CEO is positively associated with the extent of exports but negatively associated with the extent of FDI in Italian firms. However, in case of Indian firms, the presence of the founder CEO is negatively associated with the extent of exports as well as with the extent of FDI. This founder CEO's influence on the firm's international growth is mitigated by the presence of an independent board in Italian firms; however, this moderation is not significant in the case of Indian firms.

Research limitations/implications

It is important to capture heterogeneity within family firms and across institutional contexts while studying family firms' international growth. Further, it is important for international business scholars to theorize for different modes of international growth because challenges faced in expansion via exports are different from the challenges faced in expansion via FDI (foreign subsidiaries). Therefore, family firms leadership might prefer a certain mode of international growth.

Practical implications

The findings of the study imply that national culture and institutional context could play an important role in determining (a) Founder CEO's inclination towards FF's extent of exports and FDI as well as (b) the effectiveness of an independent board in mitigating founder CEO's influence on FF's international growth.

Originality/value

This work is one of the very few studies that examines the impact of FF's heterogeneity and country heterogeneity on two modes of international growth, namely exports and FDI, in the Indian and Italian contexts. Further, this work provides empirical evidence on the independent board's role in mitigating founder CEO's influence in decision making in the case of Italian firms. Extant literature expects an independent board to encourage FFs' international growth both via exports and FDI; this study shows that independent boards could reduce the founder CEO's inclination towards exports and mitigate founder CEO's influence on the decision making; however, this mitigation effect is highly context dependent.
Exploring the use of mobile technologies for learning: an empirical study of library and information science (LIS) students
Authors: Ashiq Murtaza , Rehman Shafiq Ur , Yousaf Ammara , Safdar Muhammad
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The use of mobile technologies and learning devices has been increasing in every field of life, and library and information sciences are no exception. This study aims to explore the perceptions of library and information science (LIS) students regarding mobile learning (m-learning) along with their primary purposes, social media applications, advantages, disadvantages, barriers, impact and overall satisfaction with using these devices.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey method was used, and data was collected from the students of 12 library schools in Pakistan for a total sample of 250 students.

Findings

Their main purposes of usage, their needs, advantages, disadvantages, barriers, impacts and the level of overall satisfaction were also identified. The inferential statistics (t-test and ANOVA) also identified the difference of opinion on the basis of gender, programs, types and number of m-learning devices. Overall, the findings highlight the need for academic libraries to give mobile access (launching mobile applications) to better use library services. To ensure this, libraries must keep an eye on new advances in mobile technology, researchers’ needs and related electronic library services and observe how these services are being used.

Practical implications

Theoretical and practical implications have been highlighted to understand the perceptions of LIS students about m-learning devices.

Originality/value

The mobile library service providers and management need to improve their services by offering services that fit the diverse needs of their users and should know how to attract modern library users.
Female creative managers as drivers for gender diversity in advertising creative departments: a critical mass approach
Authors: Roca David , Suárez Aina , Meléndez-Rodríguez Saraí
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The scarcity of women in advertising creative departments has been reported globally, particularly in creative managerial roles. This study goes a step beyond this evidence since this paper aims to test whether having at least one token woman in creative managerial positions (token+) may be associated with a larger presence of females in low-level creative jobs compared to creative departments led only by male creative managers.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis of the credit forms of 839 Spanish campaigns released in 2019 was conducted to determine the gender composition of 116 creative departments with more than three professionals.

Findings

Generalized Poisson Regressions indicated that when at least a token woman is present in a creative management role within agency networks, the number of females in low-level positions doubles with respect to creative departments led only by male managers. This relation was not found for independent agencies, though. The results are discussed under the lens of critical mass theory, attraction paradigm and homophily theory.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first time in the literature that the relation among the number of token+ advertising female creative managers and the amount of females in lower-level creative positions is tested. This research is also original because the sample is from a non-Anglo-Saxon country. Moreover, the use of the Generalized Poisson Regressions technique is another novelty of this paper.
The impact of task characteristics on online group participation behavior: a study using information processing theory
Authors: Sun Yuan , Gu Chenyan , Zhou Xinjie , Shang Rong-An
Published: August 2023

Purpose

In the digital age, enterprise social media (ESM) use is becoming more prevalent in the workplace. The “group” function is a very important part in the use of ESM. This paper explores how the characteristics of employees' task requirements affect their group participation behaviors on the ESM.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on information processing theory, the authors establish a two-stage research model to explore the impact of task characteristics on employees' online group participation behavior in the context of ESM. Data were collected using a survey of 341 Chinese employees.

Findings

The results indicate that (1) task interdependence was positively correlated with participation in small closed groups; (2) task complexity was positively correlated with participation in small groups, large closed groups and open professional groups and (3) task non-routineness was positively correlated with participation in small groups, large closed groups and open professional groups.

Originality/value

This study builds on the literature on task characteristics, information processing theory and employees' online group participation behavior, contributing to the research on ESM in the field of information systems and providing guidance for enterprise practice.
Twenty-one years of the Journal of Public Procurement: a performance and content review using bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ofori-Amanfo Joshua , Owusu Godfred Matthew Yaw , Arku Felix Kwasi
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of publications in the Journal of Public Procurement (JoPP) from 2001 to 2021. The study provides insights into trends in publications, prominent publication themes, influential authors, institutions and countries that have prominently been associated with the journal’s journey.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a bibliometric and content analysis approach using the VOSviewer software to develop insights into the trends, structures and patterns in publications in the journal. Data for the study was extracted from the Scopus and Google Scholar databases.

Findings

The study established that there has been consistent growth in the number of papers published by the journal within the last two decades. Yearly average publication by the journal stood at 14 papers between 2002 and 2009, with the annual average rising to approximately 18 papers between 2010 and 2021. The trend in publication has been established and identified the influential citations and contributors to the journal. The study has also clustered out the thematic structures in journal’s publications. The prominent and emerging research issues in the public procurement environment needing immediate research attention have been highlighted.

Research limitations/implications

The study is a one-journal bibliometric analysis and subsequently ignores publications on public procurement from other journals.

Social implications

The findings of this study highlight to the research community the contributions of JoPP to the public procurement discourse and present important avenues for future research agenda.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first bibliometric study for the JoPP, providing detailed bibliometric indexes of the 21-year period of the journal’s publications. The study comprehensively analyses the contributions in the JoPP to assess the trend and scope in publications in the field of public procurement and draws attention to emerging concerns and critical issues of neglect requiring research attention in the journal.
How do entrepreneurial firms behave in the face of environmental turbulence and uncertainty? Evidence from the manufacturing sector
Authors: St-Pierre Josée , Julien Pierre-André , Fadil Nazik
Published: August 2023

Purpose

In a context of greater environmental uncertainty, understanding the practices and strategies adopted by the SME owner-manager to deal with it is an important topic.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a questionnaire survey of 583 SME owner-managers, a cluster analysis based on the degree of perceived uncertainty was conducted.

Findings

A statistical differences across a continuum with regard to entrepreneurial orientation, information gathering, management and absorption practices, innovation and internationalization was observed. These results show that the behaviors, and strategies deployed by SME owner managers are adapted to the degree of uncertainty these individuals perceive. Moreover, these results are not linked to their individual profiles nor to those of their companies.

Practical implications

The results show how SME owner-managers can increase their capacity to face uncertainty by collecting different types of information from different sources, by traveling abroad, by hiring personal with diverse profiles and by dealing with situations outside their norms. Public authorities in economic development interested to promote entrepreneurial decisions are invited to produce and diffuse valuable information to reduce uncertainty perceived by owner managers to support SMEs.

Originality/value

This research is original in that no study has holistically examined the link between uncertainty and the strategic and organizational practices of SMEs. It also responds to political and managerial concerns to effectively support SMEs under conditions of uncertainty – contexts that are increasingly important these days.
Work-home interaction: a challenge to human resource management
Authors: Nazeer Irshad , Prasad K.D.V. , Mudiatpan Arunmozhi , Nanda Sudhansu Sekhar , Sharma Jitendra , Agarwal Kirti
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The main aim of the existing study is to assess work-home interaction which is a challenge to human resource management (HRM).

Design/methodology/approach

The existing research is primary in nature. The sample size of the study is 285. The responses obtained from structured questionnaire. The qualitative data collected from secondary sources. For quantitative analysis various statistical tools have been applied, namely, Cronbach Alpha test, Correlation analysis and Regression analysis. The variables understudy was work environment, training opportunities, career opportunities, pay structure and technology factors.

Findings

As the recent pandemic continues to spread, all institutions should essentially remain alert and adaptable to new circumstances. HRM was essential throughout the pandemic, but now more than ever HR professionals must go above and beyond to meet the demands of organizations. The purpose of this study was to illuminate some of the most significant HR concerns that have surfaced in the aftermath of recent pandemics.

Social implications

Employees' perspectives on work and life have shifted as a result of the added stress brought on by pandemic. So, businesses should provide crucial care to their workers' spirits and also HR professionals should pay close attention to their concerns and address the same thoughtfully.

Originality/value

The research adds to the current literature by illuminating the additional HR difficulties that have emerged in the wake of the global epidemic. More research may reveal additional significant HR difficulties, but these are a good place to start.
The social side of business: content, traffic and visibility
Authors: Carpio Pacheco Deiyali Angélica , Briz Teresa , Urbano Beatriz
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The aim of this research is to explore content, traffic and visibility on four social platforms to boost social visibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The study explores content, traffic and visibility in the context of Spanish beer brands. A sample of 3,332 beer brands' social media (SM) sites, specifically the four most commonly used platforms amongst Spaniards, was analysed. An inductive content analysis by a panel of experts identified the main contents. A cluster analysis then divided the significantly different beer brand SM sites, and a Kruskal–Wallis test confirmed the significant differences by content and traffic. To determine and predict SM visibility, a binary logistic regression was conducted.

Findings

The findings reveal that traffic is not significantly correlated with social visibility. Moreover, the SM sites with the highest traffic show significant leisure content. Twitter is significantly different network in traffic and content, whilst YouTube is the best for boosting social visibility.

Practical implications

The study's findings constitute valuable information in understanding how content, traffic and visibility are correlated and help in managing brands' public presence and exposure on SM.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by exploring four SM platforms (Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook), two dimensions of SM interactions (traffic and social visibility) and three main focal points of contents (leisure, product and promotion). This research bridges the gap amongst content, traffic and social visibility and ascertains how to gain traffic and boost social visibility.
Generative design experiments with artificial intelligence: reinterpretation of shape grammar
Authors: Çelik Tuğçe
Published: August 2023

Purpose

“Can artificial intelligence produce architectural plan schemes?” discussion is the starting point of this study. The aim of this paper is to question whether this will be a new method in architectural design by producing plans with artificial intelligence interfaces working with human–computer interaction and to create a discussion environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The main research topic is the evaluation of architectural design decisions with the text-to-image generation AI algorithms method based on shape grammar rules. First, a sample space consisting of Palladio plans or plan diagrams was created. Plan diagram production experiments were made with different interfaces (Midjourney, Dall-e2, Stable Diffusion, Craiyon, Nightcafe), and alternative plan diagrams were recorded as outputs. The discussion of the outputs has been made over architectural design and space.

Findings

In the conceptual design phase of the architectural discipline and in the production of architectural plan scheme, AI algorithms are trending. This interaction imposes a new responsibility on architects. AI can create paradigm shifts in architectural processes with its tools with high data processing potential. On the other hand, in this study, it is emphasized that architecture is not just an act of producing visuals, but a functional act of producing visuals.

Originality/value

The technology is effective in producing architectural plans and directing them to artificial intelligence algorithms. With this study, multi-alternative architectural plan productions were tried with text-to-image bots with fast results. In this direction, a new method proposal has been developed for the conceptual design phase in architecture.
Benefits of a targeted rehabilitation of number transcoding in secondary acalculia: A single‐case experimental design
Authors: Lemanissier Maureen , Riboulot Camille , Weill‐Chounlamountry Agnès , Dehollain Charlotte , Pradat‐Diehl Pascale , Bayen Eléonore , Villain Marie
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite its potentially significant functional and emotional impact, acalculia is still too rarely assessed and managed by speech and language therapists. Research on the rehabilitation of numerical transcoding remains scarce in the literature and, despite positive results, presents a low level of evidence.

Aims

The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a targeted rehabilitation of numerical transcoding in two patients suffering from a chronic secondary acalculia.

Methods & Procedures

Two post‐brain injury females with secondary acalculia took part in a single‐case experimental design with multiple baseline across subjects according to a three‐phase experimental protocol: baseline involving global cognitive rehabilitation (5–7 measurements with randomized sequential introduction); targeted intervention (10 measurements); follow‐up (2 immediate measurements and 1 month after the end of the intervention). Repeated outcome measures consisted of six lists composed of numbers of equivalent difficulty that were used alternately to assess numerical transcoding. We used a reverse digit span as a control measure to assess the specificity of the intervention. Rehabilitation lasted 5 weeks and consisted of errorless learning with colour cues, tables and number–words cards.

Outcomes & Results

During baseline period involving global cognitive rehabilitation, transcoding scores remained unchanged. In contrast, there was a significant improvement in scores for both patients during the intervention phase targeting transcoding and maintenance of benefits 1‐month post‐intervention.

Conclusions & Implications

This study demonstrates that a specific rehabilitation targeting numerical transcoding following chronic secondary acalculia can be effective in improving transcoding skills.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on the subject

Transcoding difficulties in patients with acalculia can cause a significant disability in everyday life activities. In secondary acalculia, rehabilitation of cognitive functions associated with number processing (attention, working memory, language) is not sufficient for improvement of transcoding.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge

An intervention specifically targeting numerical transcoding significantly and durably improves the skills of patients with chronic secondary acalculia.

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?

Procedural error‐free intervention using colour cueing, tables, cards with number–words, copy and repetition seems effective to improve transcoding skills in chronic acalculia.
Do they cross the bridge when they come to it? Young adult's engagement in attachment‐based family therapy as part of inpatient care
Authors: Devacht Ilse , Carlier Evelien
Published: August 2023

Although attachment seems to be ‘in fashion’ when it comes to discussing mental health issues, there are few evidence‐based therapy models treating attachment issues related to psychopathology. In this paper, we will briefly introduce Attachment‐Based Family Therapy (ABFT) as an evidence‐based intervention for depressed and suicidal adolescents, and its first‐time large‐scale application and implementation in a young adult inpatient care unit. We present our clinical data showing that 98% of the young adults who were proposed ABFT engage into this therapy. In our discussion we briefly describe accommodations to the young adult (YA) age and the inpatient setting and discuss hypotheses about which characteristics of young adulthood, the ABFT core interventions and the residential setting play a role in this high engagement. We discuss how adopting a shared clinical attachment‐based framework as a team might broaden the impact.
Renewable energy adoption and rural livelihoods in Ethiopia
Authors: Lokonon Boris K. O. , Faye Amy , Mirzabaev Alisher
Published: August 2023

The introduction of new policies promoting decentralized energy technologies is likely to have profound effects across all the nexus activities, including agricultural production, input use, and labor allocations. Thus, this paper analyzes the potential synergies and trade‐offs created by the adoption of renewable energy technologies along the water–energy–food security nexus in Ethiopia. We use a mathematical programming‐based household model to compare the impacts of fossil‐based and renewable energy use on rural households’ livelihoods. Our findings show that only a 10% subsidy to the price of biogas digester considerably changes the energy mix of all types of households and increases the use of decentralized modern energy sources. Household crop production patterns are not changed substantially as a consequence of the biogas subsidy, despite the competition over resources between crop and energy production. Nonetheless, the subsidy policy can lead to family labor reallocation from collecting fuelwood to agricultural activities. Moreover, the biogas subsidy can improve household incomes. Specifically, the findings indicate that 10% biogas subsidy can lead to 0.93% and 3.44% increases in the net incomes of wealthier and poorer households, respectively, compared to the business‐as‐usual scenario, that is, also has a pro‐poor dimension. Sensitivity analyses are carried out and it appears among others that more subsidy of the price of biogas digester leads to an increase in the net income of the two household types. Overall, the benefits generated by the biogas subsidy in terms of increases in net household incomes outweigh the total costs of the subsidy program. The findings indicate the importance of the subsidy policy to improve rural households’ welfare.
Food allergen analysis: A review of current gaps and the potential to fill them by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization
Authors: Birse Nicholas , Burns Duncan Thorburn , Walker Michael J. , Quaglia Milena , Elliott Christopher T.
Published: August 2023

Food allergy remains a public health, business, and regulatory challenge. Risk analysis (RA) and risk management (RM) of food allergens are of great importance and analysis for food allergens is necessary for both. The current workhorse techniques for allergen analysis (enzyme linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA] and real‐time polymerase chain reaction) exhibit recognized challenges including variable and antibody specific responses and detection of species DNA rather than allergen protein, respectively. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) enables protein identification, with potential for multiplex analysis and traceability to the System of International units (SI), aiding global measurement standardization. In this review, recent literature has been systematically reviewed to assess progress in LC–MS/MS and define the potential and benefits of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization–time‐of‐flight MS (MALDI–ToF‐MS) technology for allergen analysis. MALDI–ToF‐MS of initially intact protein is already applied to verify in silico‐derived peptide sequences for LC–MS/MS analysis. We describe the origins of MALDI and its future perspectives, including affinity bead‐assisted assays coupled to MALDI. Based on the proliferation of reliable and reproducible MALDI‐based clinical applications, the technique should emulate the detection capability (sensitivity) of established allergen detection techniques, whilst reducing technical support and having equivalent multiplexing potential to competing techniques, for example, LC–MS/MS and ELISA. Although unlikely to offer inherent SI traceability, MALDI‐based allergen analysis will complement existing MS approaches for allergens. Affinity bead‐MALDI appears capable of higher throughput at lower cost per sample than almost any existing technique, enabling repeated sub‐sampling as a way to reduce representative sampling issues.
Limited role for hyperammonemia in the progression of diet‐induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Wang Zi Xuan , Wang Meng Yu , Yang Rui Xu , Ren Tian Yi , Zhao Ze Hua , Xin Feng Zhi , Fan Jian Gao
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To determine whether hyperammonemia has a direct impact on steatohepatitis in mice fed with a high‐fat diet (HFD).

Methods

Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups receiving either chow diet or HFD. After 12‐week NASH modeling, hyperammonemia was induced by intragastric administration of ammonium chloride solution (NH4Cl) or liver‐specific carbamoyl phosphate synthetase 1 (Cps1) knockdown. In vitro experiments were performed in HepG2 cells induced by free fatty acid (FFA) and NH4Cl.

Results

NH4Cl administration led to increased levels of plasma and hepatic ammonia in NASH mice. NH4Cl‐induced hyperammonemia did not influence liver histological changes in mice fed with HFD; however, elevated plasma cholesterol level, and an increasing trend of liver lipid content were observed. No significant effect of hyperammonemia on hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in NASH mice was found. In vitro cell experiments showed that NH4Cl treatment failed to increase the lipid droplet content and the expressions of de novo lipogenesis genes in HepG2 cells induced by FFA. The knockdown of Cps1 in HFD‐fed mice resulted in elevated plasma ammonia levels but did not cause histological change in the liver.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a limited role of ammonia in aggravating the progression of NASH. Further studies are needed to clarify the role and mechanism of ammonia in NASH development.
Saving the endangered Mary River turtle: Enhancing conservation outcomes through community engagement
Authors: Campbell Mariana A. , Connell Marilyn J. , Clark Natalie J. , Espinoza Tom , Flakus Samantha P. , Collett Sydney J. , Cann John , Franklin Craig E. , Campbell Hamish A.
Published: August 2023

Australian biodiversity is facing an extinction crisis; yet, government spending on conservation is wholly inadequate. The involvement of local communities in fundraising, direct actions, and habitat restoration is becoming vital in the fate of threatened species. Here, we review the research outputs and impact generated from 22 years of conservation‐driven collaboration between researchers and a local community focused on saving the endangered Mary River turtle (Elusor macrurus). The study found that this collaboration generated a significant body of research that advanced the ecological knowledge of the species and ensured the findings were being applied towards the conservation of the turtle, locally and nationally. While the national listing status of E. macrurus as endangered has not changed over the past 22 years, the knowledge gained about the turtle's biology and its use to better advise development and water resources in the catchment suggests that the species' future is brighter than when it was first discovered in 1994. This review demonstrates the potential of local communities in driving and supporting conservation initiatives and provides a blueprint for scientific endeavours that inform adaptive community conservation programmes for threatened species.
Mechanisms of gut epithelial barrier impairment caused by food emulsifiers polysorbate 20 and polysorbate 80
Authors: Ogulur Ismail , Yazici Duygu , Pat Yagiz , Bingöl Elif Naz , Babayev Huseyn , Ardicli Sena , Heider Anja , Rückert Beate , Sampath Vanitha , Dhir Raja , Akdis Mubeccel , Nadeau Kari , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: August 2023

Background

The rising prevalence of many chronic diseases related to gut barrier dysfunction coincides with the increased global usage of dietary emulsifiers in recent decades. We therefore investigated the effect of the frequently used food emulsifiers on cytotoxicity, barrier function, transcriptome alterations, and protein expression in gastrointestinal epithelial cells.

Methods

Human intestinal organoids originating from induced pluripotent stem cells, colon organoid organ‐on‐a‐chip, and liquid–liquid interface cells were cultured in the presence of two common emulsifiers: polysorbate 20 (P20) and polysorbate 80 (P80). The cytotoxicity, transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and paracellular‐flux were measured. Immunofluorescence staining of epithelial tight‐junctions (TJ), RNA‐seq transcriptome, and targeted proteomics were performed.

Results

Cells showed lysis in response to P20 and P80 exposure starting at a 0.1% (v/v) concentration across all models. Epithelial barrier disruption correlated with decreased TEER, increased paracellular‐flux and irregular TJ immunostaining. RNA‐seq and targeted proteomics analyses demonstrated upregulation of cell development, signaling, proliferation, apoptosis, inflammatory response, and response to stress at 0.05%, a concentration lower than direct cell toxicity. A proinflammatory response was characterized by the secretion of several cytokines and chemokines, interaction with their receptors, and PI3K‐Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. CXCL5, CXCL10, and VEGFA were upregulated in response to P20 and CXCL1, CXCL8 (IL‐8), CXCL10, LIF in response to P80.

Conclusions

The present study provides direct evidence on the detrimental effects of food emulsifiers P20 and P80 on intestinal epithelial integrity. The underlying mechanism of epithelial barrier disruption was cell death at concentrations between 1% and 0.1%. Even at concentrations lower than 0.1%, these polysorbates induced a proinflammatory response suggesting a detrimental effect on gastrointestinal health.
A vanguard randomised feasibility trial comparing three regimens of peri‐operative oxygen therapy on recovery after major surgery
Authors: Frei D. R. , Beasley R. , Campbell D. , Forbes A. , Leslie K. , Mackle D. , Martin C. , Merry A. , Moore M. R. , Myles P. S. , Ruawai‐Hamilton L. , Short T. G. , Young P. J.
Published: August 2023

International recommendations encourage liberal administration of oxygen to patients having surgery under general anaesthesia, ostensibly to reduce surgical site infection. However, the optimal oxygen regimen to minimise postoperative complications and enhance recovery from surgery remains uncertain. The hospital operating theatre randomised oxygen (HOT‐ROX) trial is a multicentre, patient‐ and assessor‐blinded, parallel‐group, randomised clinical trial designed to assess the effect of a restricted, standard care, or liberal peri‐operative oxygen therapy regimen on days alive and at home after surgery in adults undergoing prolonged non‐cardiac surgery under general anaesthesia. Here, we report the findings of the internal vanguard feasibility phase of the trial undertaken in four large metropolitan hospitals in Australia and New Zealand that included the first 210 patients of a planned overall 2640 trial sample, with eight pre‐specified endpoints evaluating protocol implementation and safety. We screened a total of 956 participants between 1 September 2019 and 26 January 2021, with data from 210 participants included in the analysis. Median (IQR [range]) time‐weighted average intra‐operative FiO2was 0.30 (0.26–0.35 [0.20–0.59]) and 0.47 (0.44–0.51 [0.37–0.68]) for restricted and standard care, respectively (mean difference (95%CI) 0.17 (0.14–0.20), p < 0.001). Median time‐weighted average intra‐operative FiO2was 0.83 (0.80–0.85 [0.70–0.91]) for liberal oxygen therapy (mean difference (95%CI) compared with standard care 0.36 (0.33–0.39), p < 0.001). All feasibility endpoints were met. There were no significant patient adverse events. These data support the feasibility of proceeding with the HOT‐ROX trial without major protocol modifications.
Chapter 9 Arthur C. Parker: Equivocal Examples in Advocacy and Allyship
Authors: Witt David E.
Published: August 2023

Arthur Caswell Parker (1881–1955) was one of the first Indigenous archaeologists. As a Seneca‐descended scientist from the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation, his cultural background aided with collaboration and research. Many archaeologists uncritically use Parker as an example of a Native archaeologist, anthropologist, and ethnographer. However, his career started at a time when the field of archaeology was still in its infancy, when practices now considered unethical were commonplace. Parker excavated and sold human burials, published records of sacred ceremonies, and provided images of False Face Masks and Snow Snakes. Yet, an examination of his personal correspondence illustrates both a concern for archaeological practice as well as efforts to prevent sensitive cultural aspects from being released to the wider, non‐Native public. These seemingly contradictory stances illustrate that Parker's practice was more nuanced than previously believed. Parker's writings and actions indicate a concern for the situation of the Seneca people and attempts to do what he thought best for others (even if they disagreed). Despite all this, the simplistic assumption that Parker, as an Indigenous archaeologist, always acted in the best interest of his people continues to influence how Euro‐Americans perceive how archaeology should be done. This belief must be interrogated in order that we may move archaeology forward to be a more respectful and equitable practice.