bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yersiniabactin is a quorum sensing autoinducer and siderophore in uropathogenicEscherichia coli
Authors: Heffernan James R. , Katumba George L. , McCoy William H. , Henderson Jeffrey P.
Published: February 2023

Siderophores are secreted ferric ion chelators used to obtain iron in nutrient-limited environmental niches, including human hosts. While allE. coliencode the enterobactin (Ent) siderophore system, isolates from patients with urinary tract infections additionally encode the genetically distinct yersiniabactin (Ybt) siderophore system. To determine whether the Ent and Ybt systems are functionally redundant for iron uptake, we compared growth of different isogenic siderophore biosynthesis mutants in the presence of transferrin, a human iron-binding protein. We observed that the Ybt system does not compensate for loss of the Ent system during siderophore-dependent, low density growth. Using transcriptional and product analysis, we found that this non-redundancy is attributable to a density-dependent transcriptional stimulation cycle in which Ybt assume an additional autoinducer function. These results distinguish the Ybt system as a combined quorum-sensing and siderophore system. These functions may reflect Ybt as a public good within bacterial communities or as an adaptation to confined, subcellular compartments in infected hosts. The efficiency of this arrangement may contribute to the extraintestinal pathogenic potential ofE. coliand relatedEnterobacterales.

IMPORTANCE

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common human bacterial infections encountered by physicians. Adaptations that increase the pathogenic potential of commensal microbes such asE.coliare of great interest. One potential adaptation observed in clinical isolates is accumulation of multiple siderophore systems, which scavenge iron for nutritional use. While iron uptake is important for bacterial growth, the increased metabolic costs of siderophore production could diminish bacterial fitness during infections. In a siderophore-dependent growth conditions, we show that the virulence-associated yersiniabactin siderophore system in uropathogenicE. coliis not redundant with the ubiquitousE. colienterobactin system. This arises not from differences in iron scavenging activity but because yersiniabactin is preferentially expressed during bacterial crowding, leaving bacteria dependent upon enterobactin for growth at low cell density. Notably, this regulatory mode arises because yersiniabactin stimulates its own expression, acting as an autoinducer in a previously unappreciated quorum-sensing system. This unexpected result connects quorum-sensing with pathogenic potential inE. coliand relatedEnterobacterales.
PopTradeOff: a database for exploring population-specific trade-offs between adaptive evolution, disease susceptibility, and drug responsiveness
Authors: Tang Ji , Zhang Huanlin , Zhang Hai , Zhu Hao
Published: February 2023

The influence of adaptive evolution on disease susceptibility has drawn attention, but the extent of the influence, whether favored mutations also influence drug responses, and whether the associations between the three are population specific remain little known. Using a deep learning network to integrate seven statistical tests for detecting selection signals, we predicted favored mutations in the genomes of 17 human populations. We integrate these favored mutations with GWAS sites and drug response-related variants into the database PopTradeOff. The database also contains genome annotation information on the SNP, sequence, gene, and pathway levels. The preliminary data analyses suggest that substantial associations exist between adaptive evolution, disease susceptibility, and drug responses. The database may be valuable for disease studies, drug development, and personalized medicine.
(η5-Carboxycyclopentadienyl)(η7-cycloheptatrienyl)manganese(I) hexafluoridophosphate
Authors: Thaler Reinhard , Wurst Klaus , Bildstein Benno
Published: February 2023

The title compound, [Mn(C7H7)(C6H5O2)]PF6 or [(Cht)Mn(Cp'CO2H)]PF6, with Cht = cycloheptatrienyl and Cp' = C5H4, is an air-stable, purple, heteroleptic, cationic sandwich complex with manganese in oxidation state +I and π-coordinating cycloheptatrienyl and cyclopentadienyl ligands. The latter ligand carries the carboxylic acid functionality. This `tromancenium-8-carboxylic acid' with hexafluoridophosphate as counter-ion represents a rare case of a cationic carboxylic acid. Structurally, this organometallic carboxylic acid displays the common motif of planar Osp
2...H—Osp
3/Osp
3—H...Osp
2 hydrogen-bonded carboxylic acid dimers with anti-oriented metallocenyl moieties, the cationic charge of which is balanced by octahedrally shaped hexafluoridophosphate anions. Positional disorder is observed in the cycloheptatrienyl ring and the PF6
− anion.
Power, dominance and control: implementing a new business intelligence system
Authors: Hussain Zahid , Jabbar Abdul , Kong Kai
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to expose the playout of power dynamics when a new business intelligence (BI) system is implemented in a central pharmacy department in a National Health Service (NHS) hospital. The authors aim to explore the assumptions, experiences and actions of organisational stakeholders and ascertain how different professional groups obtain influence, power and control during this process.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research the authors employ structuration theory (ST), to establish how and where domination is achieved. To achieve this, the authors investigate the production and reproduction of structure as part of a longitudinal assessment using interviews and questionnaires.

Findings

Constant renewal and evolution are crucial in the implementation of a BI system. During the process of implementation and change many stakeholders resent the change. Disempowering these users leads to new power structures led by BI analysts.

Practical implications

The findings from this paper can help strengthen implications of BI systems implementation and better understand the impact these systems have on wider stakeholders. With coherent communication and an engaged attitude new BI systems can be implemented without alienating the key user stakeholders.

Originality/value

This paper differs from other papers by advocating that new systems and processes alter individual power structures in organisations, disrupting internal dynamics and introducing new aspects of control and dominance.
Confirmatory analysis on factors influencing the material management effectiveness in construction projects
Authors: Pham Van Bao , Peansupap Vachara
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Construction material management is an important process in supporting construction operations that affect project performance. Previous studies attempt to identify factors influencing material management in different stages such as procurement, transportation and utilization. However, they lack a model to explain the relationship between influential factors and the effectiveness of material management. Therefore, this study aims to validate the variables and key factors influencing the effectiveness of material management processes.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 42 variables were reviewed from literature in different stages of material management process. Survey questionnaires were used to collect data about participants' perceptions on these variables. The respondents were 200 project engineers and project managers from construction sites and offices in Vietnam. Then factor analysis techniques were undertaken to validate the structure of factor groups. Two methods of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were, respectively, performed to evaluate and verify the model's fit.

Findings

Factors influencing the effectiveness of material management were grouped into nine main factors, which are procurement issues, site conditions, planning and handling on site, industrial environments, contractual issues, quality control, suppliers and manufacturers' issues, transportation in and out site and security on site.

Practical implications

The paper has several implications for theory and methodology related to material management. It features influential factors in association with the material management effectiveness. Therefore, senior managers can more fully understand the errors in their works and propose timely solutions to limit the unwanted risks.

Originality/value

This research contributes on theoretical development on factors influencing effectiveness of material management processes. The key findings on influential factors can be applied to measure the effectiveness of material management processes.
Boosting stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action in megaprojects: perspectives of mega water transfer projects in China
Authors: Zhai Wujuan , Ling Florence Yean Yng , Ding Jiyong , Wang Zhuofu
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Megaprojects have large impact on the environment and stakeholders should take collective action to ensure that these projects are developed in a socially responsible manner. Hitherto, it is not known whether group and subjective norms and social identity could compel stakeholders to take socially responsible collective actions in megaprojects. The aim of this study is to design and test a model to boost stakeholders' intention to take socially responsible collective action in the context of mega water transfer projects in China.

Design/methodology/approach

A quasi-experimental causal research design was adopted to establish cause–effect relationships among the dependent variable (we-intention) and independent variables (subjective norms, group norms, social identity and desire). This study adopts the belief–desire–intention model and social influence theory to empirically investigate how to boost the stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action. An online questionnaire survey was conducted and data was collected from 365 respondents who were involved in mega water transfer projects in China. The partial least squares structural equation modeling technique was employed to analyze the data.

Findings

The results from partial least squares analyses indicate that the presence of subjective norms, group norms and social identity (collectively known as social influence process) could increase stakeholders' intention to take socially responsible collective action. In addition, the desire to be socially responsible also boosts stakeholders' intention to take collective action. Desire partially mediates the relationship between social influence process and intention to take socially responsible collective action.

Originality/value

This study adds to existing knowledge by discovering social influence process as an antecedent to taking socially responsible collective action in megaprojects. Strong group norms and subjective norms could propel stakeholders to be more socially responsible. The study also adds to knowledge by discovering that stakeholders' desire to fulfill social responsibility also leads them to take concrete actions. Implications and recommendations are provided on how to manipulate different types of social influence processes to facilitate stakeholders to adopt socially responsible collective action in the process of managing megaprojects.
Experimental and LBM analysis of medium-Reynolds number fluid flow around NACA0012 airfoil
Authors: Rak Andro , Grbčić Luka , Sikirica Ante , Kranjčević Lado
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the examination of fluid flow around NACA0012 airfoil, with the aim of the numerical validation between the experimental results in the wind tunnel and the Lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) analysis, for the medium Reynolds number (Re= 191,000). The LBM–large Eddy simulation (LES) method described in this paper opens up opportunities for faster computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis, because of the LBM scalability on high performance computing architectures, more specifically general purpose graphics processing units (GPGPUs), pertaining at the same time the high resolution LES approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Process starts with data collection in open-circuit wind tunnel experiment. Furthermore, the pressure coefficient, as a comparative variable, has been used with varying angle of attack (2°, 4°, 6° and 8°) for both experiment and LBM analysis. To numerically reproduce the experimental results, the LBM coupled with the LES turbulence model, the generalized wall function (GWF) and the cumulant collision operator with D3Q27 velocity set has been used. Also, a mesh independence study has been provided to ensure result congruence.

Findings

The proposed LBM methodology is capable of highly accurate predictions when compared with experimental data. Besides, the special significance of this work is the possibility of experimental and CFD comparison for the same domain dimensions.

Originality/value

Considering the quality of results, root-mean-square error (RMSE) shows good correlations both for airfoil’s upper and lower surface. More precisely, maximal RMSE for the upper surface is 0.105, whereas 0.089 for the lower surface, regarding all angles of attack.
Women entrepreneurial motivation and business performance: the role of learning motivation and female entrepreneurial competencies
Authors: Lingappa Anasuya K. , Rodrigues L.R. Lewlyn , Shetty Dasharathraj K.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a conceptual model that explains how necessity and opportunity start-up motivation affects firm performance among women entrepreneurs (WEs) through the mediating influences of motivation to learn (MtL) and women entrepreneurial competencies (WEC).

Design/methodology/approach

Necessity (NEC) and Opportunity (OPP) motivation is used as the guiding theory to acknowledge the contraries of women entrepreneurial motivation. Female Entrepreneurial Competency (FEC) framework is used as a basis for WEC. Embedded in this reasoning, MtL and FECs are integrated into the conceptual model to understand the connection between start-up motivation and business performance among WEs in a developing economy.

Findings

To date, there is a limited understanding of how learning motivation and competencies together explain the business performance of WEs through the lens of their differences in start-up motivation. In this respect, this conceptual model advances scholarly insights by conceptualizing the relationship between NEC and OPP motivation, and business performance through the mediating influences of MtL and WECs.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed conceptual model does not consider any aspects other than entrepreneurial motivation, learning motivation and competencies related to business performance such as access to finance, sociocultural aspects and personality traits.

Practical implications

The proposed conceptual model can contribute to academics by adding to the body of knowledge on women entrepreneurship. It can also aid policymakers in understanding the critical link between differentials in start-up motivation and firm performance through the mediating influences of learning motivation and competencies, thus potentially providing a basis for formulating focused skilling strategies for WEs.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a unique conceptual framework that incorporates theories of learning motivation and FECs to examine the critical link between start-up motivation and business performance among WE.
Application of six sigma through deep learning in the production of fasteners
Authors: Altuğ Mehmet
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was conducted at an enterprise that produces fasteners and is one of the leading companies in the sector in terms of market share. Possible defects in the coating of bolts and nuts either lead to products being scrapped or all of the coating process being repeated from beginning to end. In both cases, the enterprise faces a waste of time and excessive costs. Through this project, the six sigma theory and its means were effectively used to improve the efficiency and quality management of the company. The selection of the six sigma project has also contributed to the creation of various documents to be used for project screening and evaluation of financial results.

Design/methodology/approach

Six sigma is an optimization strategy that is used to improve the profitability of businesses, avoid waste, scrap and losses, reduce costs and improve the effectiveness of all activities to meet or exceed customers’ needs and expectations. Six sigma’s process improvement model, known as Definition-Measurement-Analysis-Improvement-Control, contributes to the economic and technical achievements of businesses. The normal distribution of a process should be within ±3 sigma of the mean. This represents a scale of 99.7% certainty. However, improving the process through the utilization of the six sigma rule, which accepts normal variabilities of processes twice as strict, will result in an error rate of 3.4 per million instead of 2,700 per million for each product or service.

Findings

Using six sigma practices to reduce the costs associated with low quality and to increase economic added value became a cultural practice. With this, the continuation of six sigma practices throughout the Company was intended. The annual cost reduction achieved with the utilization of six sigma practices can be up to $21,780. When time savings are also considered, a loss reduction of about $30,000 each year can be achieved. The coating thickness efficiency increased from 85% to 95% after the improvements made through the six sigma project. There is a significant increase in the efficiency of coating thickness. In addition, the coating thickness efficiency is also close to the target value of 95%–97%.

Originality/value

The results of the study were optimized with the help of deep learning. The performance of the model created in deep learning was quite close to the actual performance. This result implicates the validity of the improvement work. The results may act as a guide for the use of deep learning in new projects.
An analysis of the broiler value chain and economics of broiler production in Senegal: status quo after two decades of import restrictions
Authors: Chibanda Craig , Wieck Christine , Sall Moussa
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study analyzed the state of broiler production in Senegal after nearly two decades of poultry import restrictions. It provides a synopsis of the Senegalese broiler value chain and evaluates the performance and economics of different broiler farm types.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-stakeholder workshop and interviews were conducted with key informants to investigate the structure and activities of the Senegalese broiler value chain. The typical farm approach (TFA) was used to construct and analyze “typical” farms that represent the most common broiler production systems in Senegal.

Findings

The current situation in the Senegalese broiler value chain is favorable for hatcheries, feed mills, producers and poultry traders. However, the slaughterhouses are not faring well. The farm economic analysis demonstrates that typical medium-scale broiler farms are performing well, due to the use of high-quality feed, chicks and good husbandry. Additionally, the analysis revealed that feed and day-old chick (DOC) costs are the most significant in conventional broiler production in Senegal. Despite the high costs of feed and DOCs, broiler production is profitable for typical farms.

Research limitations/implications

Athough this study provides detailed insights into broiler farm economics in Senegal, it does not include typical integrated large-scale broiler farm-types. Based on our findings, we can predict that such farm types may be more efficient and have lower production costs due to the use of high-quality inputs (chicks and feed), and economies of scale. However, future studies will need to verify this prediction.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, only a few unpublished studies on broiler farm economics in Senegal exist. These studies only provide a basic analysis of the cost of production and profitability, with little consideration of various production systems. Contrastingly, this study provides a detailed economic analysis of different types of conventional broiler farms in key production regions.
Corporate governance regulation in regulatory space of a developing country: actors, strategies and outcomes
Authors: Ahmad Zubair , Mahmood Zeeshan
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study seeks to deepen the understanding of the political process underlying the establishment and evolution of corporate governance (CG) regulations in a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on regulatory space concept (Hancher and Moran, 1989) and Oliver's (1991) typology of strategic responses, the authors identify which actor participated in and benefitted from the establishment of a new transnational CG regulation in Pakistan. Data were collected through interviews and from the published secondary sources.

Findings

The findings highlighted regulations are being influenced and shaped up by the political process of negotiation, bargaining, manipulation and domination between powerful and resourceful actors in a given regulatory space. National regulators and regulatees can be indeed fervent opponents to the transnational regulations when it comes to protecting their well-rooted national interests.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the accounting literature by illustrating political processes through which internationally recognised CG practices are resisted, negotiated and implemented in the developing countries. The regulator must pay attention that the outcome of the regulatory change process is the result of carefully crafted and conscious strategies of actors in the regulatory space.
Evaluation of logistics centers in terms of sustainability via MCDM methods
Authors: Keleş Nuh , Pekkaya Mehmet
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is the evaluation of choosing the determined logistics centers’ (LCs’) locations via Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods.

Design/methodology/approach

Since there is more than one criterion in the evaluation of LC location, MCDM methods are used. The Entropy and CRiteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation (CRITIC) methods are used to determine the main criteria and sub-criteria weights. The Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) method is used for ranking and evaluating 12 alternatives in Turkey and sensitivity analysis according to the threshold values of criteria and preference functions.

Findings

Possible LC alternatives in Turkey and 12 locations ranked. Changing the criteria weights at a significant level did not affect the ranking results much. In the sensitivity analysis of the criteria for which market data could not be obtained (scored by the experts) it is found that they either made no difference or made little difference in the ranking of the alternatives.

Practical implications

In terms of sustainability, economic factors along with environmental and social dimensions are important criteria for logistics companies and LC. The use of these variables in the LC location selection makes a difference.

Originality/value

This study focuses on LC location selection, via PROMETHEE with evaluated preference functions for criteria, taking into account nine scenarios that use variable criteria weight calculated via different MCDM methods. The results are evaluated by using sensitivity analysis and taking into account the sustainability aspect for LC. Multiple methods have been used effectively together in a way that support each other.
GCC banks’ capital and liquidity: conventional versus Islamic banks
Authors: Alshammari Turki
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study strives to examine the relationship between bank capital and bank liquidity level considering the joint determination of both variables pointed out in the related literature. The evidence is from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. The theory of banking postulates that bank capital and bank liquidity are interrelated through various links. The study conjectures that large GCC banks do not have a concern with respect to liquidity due to the implicit guarantee of GCC wealthy governments to bank deposits.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample is comprised of all chartered GCC conventional and Islamic banks. The study employs several on-balance sheet ratios to proxy for bank capital and liquidity as defined in the banking literature. It also employs a related econometric model that considers the simultaneity issue pointed out in the related literature.

Findings

The results of the study reveal that GCC banks react positively when facing illiquidity by strengthening their capital ratio. Further analysis reveals that only small GCC banks (conventional and Islamic) tend to increase their capital levels when facing a liquidity shortage, which confirms the study conjecture that larger GCC banks have no credible concern about their liquidity position. Employing an alternative measure of liquidity does not change the results. This finding supports the financial fragility structure and the crowding out of deposits hypotheses.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature by employing a novel estimation approach to explore the difference in results as the sample banks represent two banking regimes, the conventional banks as well as the Islamic banks. Also, the study implicitly suggests that further research in this area could support the need to impose minimum and globally uninformed liquidity standards on banks.
Factors predicting pro-environmental behavior: the case of baby diapers
Authors: Amelia Novi , Saragih Harriman Samuel
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In addition to being one of the most commonly purchased items by infant caretakers, disposable baby diapers (DBDs) are among the most detrimental products to the environment. Shifting to a diapering method that is less harmful to the environment is an example of pro-environmental conduct. Hence, this study aims to examine how motivation, subjective norms, perceived benefits and perceived threats influence pro-environmental behavior (PEB) intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a two-stage disjoint approach of partial least squares structural equation modeling to examine the data. In the conceptual model, a combination of reflective-reflective second-order constructs is used in the motivation, perceived benefits and perceived threats. A total of 233 respondents from a developing economy in Southeast Asia provide the data.

Findings

This study suggests that perceived benefits (i.e. environmental, monetary and symbol) and threats (i.e. susceptibility and severity) are significant determinants of PEB. Surprisingly, motivation and subjective norms had no significant relationship with consumers' adoption of non-DBD alternatives.

Research limitations/implications

To persuade caretakers to act in an environmentally responsible manner, the findings of this study imply that, where relevant, considerations for a wide variety of benefits and health risks should be made apparent. Environmental, financial and symbolic benefits should be shared with prospective target audiences. Caretakers should be warned of probable health effects of not being environmentally friendly. This study argues that caretakers' lack of information of non-DBD options may explain the insignificance of subjective norms and motivation.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the social marketing literature by examining the influence of motivation, subjective norms, perceived benefits and perceived threats on the intention to use more-environmentally friendly alternatives to DBDs as a manifestation of PEB.
Workplace e-learning acceptance: combining symmetrical and asymmetrical perspectives
Authors: Lantu Donald Crestofel , Labdhagati Haifa , Dewanto Irwan
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The use of e-learning in the workplace is increasing. This increase was mainly because of technological advancement within corporations, but the COVID-19 pandemic has further reinforced this trend. User acceptance is central to e-learning’s success; hence, this study aims to investigate workplace e-learning acceptance in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model, this study analyzed survey response data from employees in seven Indonesian industries that use e-learning for their corporate learning programs. The study combined partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis with fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to gain symmetrical and asymmetrical perspectives.

Findings

Various combinations of UTAUT model-based antecedents in pursuing workplace e-learning acceptance were supported by the PLS-SEM and fsQCA results. Both analyses point to performance expectancy as the strongest predictor of intention to use e-learning.

Research limitations/implications

The study offers insight into the causal relationship between constructs in the UTAUT model and uncovers paths and combinations of constructs that lead to e-learning intention.

Originality/value

This study highlights complex causalities between constructs.
Large carnivores avoid humans while prioritizing prey acquisition in anthropogenic areas
Authors: Barker Kristin J. , Cole Eric , Courtemanch Alyson , Dewey Sarah , Gustine David , Mills Kenneth , Stephenson John , Wise Benjamin , Middleton Arthur D.
Published: February 2023

Large carnivores are recovering in many landscapes where the human footprint is simultaneously growing. When carnivores encounter humans, the way they behave often changes, which may subsequently influence how they affect their prey. However, little research investigates the behavioural mechanisms underpinning carnivore response to humans. As a result, it is not clear how predator–prey interactions and their associated ecosystem processes will play out in the human‐dominated areas into which carnivore populations are increasingly expanding.

We hypothesized that humans would reduce predation risk for prey by disturbing carnivores or threatening their survival. Alternatively, or additionally, we hypothesized that humans would increase predation risk by providing forage resources that congregate herbivorous prey in predictable places and times.

Using grey wolves Canis lupus in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA as a study species, we investigated 170 kill sites across a spectrum of human influences ranging from heavily restricted human activities on protected federal lands to largely unregulated activities on private lands. Then, we used conditional logistic regression to quantify how the probability of predation changed across varied types and amounts of human influences, while controlling for environmental characteristics and prey availability.

Wolves primarily made kills in environmental terrain traps and where prey availability was high, but predation risk was significantly better explained with the inclusion of human influences than by environmental characteristics alone. Different human influences had different, and even converse, effects on the risk of wolf predation. For example, where prey were readily available, wolves preferentially killed animals far from motorized roads but close to unpaved trails. However, wolves responded less strongly to humans, if at all, where prey were scarce, suggesting they prioritized acquiring prey over avoiding human interactions.

Overall, our work reveals that the effects of large carnivores on prey populations can vary considerably among different types of human influences, yet carnivores may not appreciably alter predatory behaviour in response to humans if prey are difficult to obtain. These results shed new light on the drivers of large carnivore behaviour in anthropogenic areas while improving understanding of predator–prey dynamics in and around the wildland–urban interface.
Long amplicon HiFi sequencing for mitochondrial DNA genomes
Authors: Cai Zheng‐Fei , Hu Ji‐Yuan , Yin Ting‐Ting , Wang Da , Shen Quan‐Kuan , Ma Cheng , Ou Ding‐Qin , Xu Ming‐Min , Shi Xian , Li Qing‐Long , Wu Ru‐Nian , Ajuma Lameck , Adeola Adeniyi C. , Zhang Ya‐Ping , Peng Min‐Sheng
Published: February 2023

Long‐read sequencing technology is a powerful approach with application in various genetic and genomic research. Herein, we developed the pipeline for long amplicon high‐fidelity (HiFi) sequencing and then applied it for sequencing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genomes from pools of 79 Tibetan Mastiffs. We amplified the mtDNA genome with long‐range PCR using two pairs of primers. Two rounds of circular consensus sequencing (CCS) were conducted and their accuracy was evaluated. The results indicate that the second round of CCS can improve the accuracy of HiFi reads. In addition, the analysis of 79 high‐quality mtDNA genomes shows the Tibetan Mastiffs from outside of the Tibetan Plateau experienced hybridization with other dogs. The high quality reads generator (HQGR) software is provided to facilitate data analyses, which is publicly accessible on GitHub (https://github.com/Caizf‐script/HQGR). Our long amplicon HiFi sequencing pipeline can also be applied in various target enrichment strategies for small genomes and candidate genes.
Emergency department utilization and presenting chief complaints by Veterans living with dementia
Authors: Seidenfeld Justine , Dalton Aaron , Vashi Anita A.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Veteran persons living with dementia (PLWDs) have high acute care utilization. We aim to understand why PLWDs seek care in the emergency department (ED) and how their utilization differs from older Veterans with no dementia diagnosis. We demonstrate the use of a novel national chief complaint data set in the Veteran Affairs Health Care System.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of ED users 65 years or older as of FY2017. The primary outcome is presence of one or more ED visits in FYs 2017–2018 using a logistic regression model controlling for dementia and other variables. Secondary outcomes include counts of ED visits by disposition, Emergency Severity Index, chief complaints defined by a natural language processing program, and ED encounter diagnoses defined by primary International Statistical Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD‐10‐CM) code.

Results

Our cohort of Veterans comprised 3,115,263 patients. Of those, 255,372 (8.2%) had a diagnosis of dementia. Logistic regression modeling demonstrated that dementia is a significant predictor of ED use (p < 0.0001), with PLWDs more likely to have an ED visit (odds ratio 1.96, 95% confidence interval 1.94–1.98). PLWDs were admitted at higher rates when accounting for age and acuity. Chief complaints that were more common among PLWDs included falls (6.7% dementia vs. 3.3% without dementia), weakness (3.6% vs. 2.2%), and abnormal mental state (2.2% vs. 0.4%). ICD‐10‐CM codes were largely similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Our results reinforce that the ED is a common access point for Veterans with dementia. These patients require special consideration as they are more likely to visit the ED and be admitted. Our use of a novel national chief complaint data set suggests that they more commonly present with certain geriatric syndromes and nonspecific complaints. Further work is needed to determine whether these would warrant targeted interventions to improve quality of acute care.
Preliminary evidence of upland plant encroachment in high‐elevation wetlands of Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Authors: Tuyizere Diogene , Tuyishimire Joseph , Tuyisenge Marie Fidèle , van der Hoek Yntze
Published: February 2023

Wetland ecosystems are increasingly altered by anthropogenic activities, with upland plant encroachment as one possible outcome. Here, we present preliminary evidence that encroachment by herbaceous and woody upland species is ongoing in five small Afromontane wetlands straddling high elevations (~2600–3400 m a.s.l.) in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). Although encroachment seems to commence at wetland edges it reaches waterlogged soils at wetland centres. This evidence of the spread of upland plants in these wetlands should be followed by additional research efforts focused on possible causes and consequences of this encroachment as well as the exploration of potential management and mitigation efforts.
Clinical phenotype, treatment strategy and pregnancy outcome of non‐criteria obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Li Jiapo , Hou Yue , Zhang Liyang , Li Fan , Liu Qian , Li Yuanyuan , Shen Hongfei , Xiong Ziyue , Huang Ling , Qiao Chong
Published: February 2023

Problem

To illustrate the clinical features, treatment strategy, and pregnancy outcome of patients with obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (OAPS), non‐criteria obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (NC‐OAPS)

Method of study

A single‐center nested case‐control study was designed. Patients with a diagnosis of OAPS and NC‐OAPS were enrolled. The medical history, coagulation status, and antibody profile data were collected. Patients were given standard anticoagulation therapy with or without glucocorticoids (GC) and/or hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) during pregnancy and were observed for their pregnancy outcome.

Results

A total of 47 patients with OAPS and 120 patients with NC‐OAPS were finally included, of whom 55 patients met the clinical criteria (subgroup C) and 65 met the laboratory criteria (subgroup L). Pregnancy morbidity showed significant differences: gravida, pregnancy loss in OAPS versus NC‐OAPS. The coagulation function was not significantly different between OAPS and NC‐OAPS groups, while TT and FIB were significantly higher in the subgroup C. Thromboelastography (TEG) results showed a significantly lower ANGEL in the NC‐OAPS group, a higher ANGEL and lower EPL, LY30 in the subgroup L. No differences between groups were observed in treatment strategy. The pregnancy outcomes were not significantly different between NC‐OAPS and OAPS groups.

Conclusions

Clinical and laboratory differences were found between OAPS and NC‐OAPS groups in this study. Patients in different subgroups of NC‐OAPS could be identified with different clinical phenotypes. A relatively hypercoagulable status existed in the OAPS group compared to NC‐OAPS, and also in the subgroup L.
Surgical management of clavicle fractures in Australia: an analysis of Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule database from 2001 to 2020
Authors: Campbell Ryan J. , Handford Cameron , Donaldson Matthew J. , Sivakumar Brahman S. , Jiang Eric , Symes Michael
Published: February 2023

Background

There is no consensus on the optimal management of clavicle fractures, with advocates of both operative and non‐operative management. The objective of this study is to assess the trends in the management of clavicle fractures in Australia over the past two decades.

Methods

The incidence of surgical fixation of clavicle fractures from 2001 to 2020 was analysed using the Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule database, reflective of operations performed on privately insured patients, thus excluding public patients and compensable cases. An offset term was utilized with data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics to account for population changes over the study period.

Results

A total of 17 089 procedures for the management of clavicle fractures were performed from 2001 to 2020. The incidence of operative intervention increased from 1.87 per 100 000 in 2001 to a peak of 6.63 per 100 000 in 2016. An overall increase was seen in males (310%) and females (347%) over the study period, as well as across all age groups. A greater proportion of operative interventions was performed on males (n = 14 075, 82%) than females (n = 3014, 18%, P < 0.001). The greatest increase in intervention was noted in those aged 65 or older (14% increase per year, 95% CI 11%–17%, P < 0.05). In 2020, the incidence of operative intervention decreased to a level last seen in 2013.

Conclusions

The incidence of operative interventions for clavicle fractures has increased in Australia over the 20‐year study period. This increase is in keeping with recent evidence suggesting several advantages when displaced mid‐shaft clavicle fractures are operatively managed.
Weight loss by calorie restriction does not alter appetite‐regulating gut hormone responses from perfused rat small intestine
Authors: Gerstenberg Marina K. , Andersen Daniel B. , Torz Lola , Castorena Carlos M. , Bookout Angie L. , Hartmann Bolette , Rehfeld Jens F. , Petersen Natalia , Holst Jens J. , Kuhre Rune E.
Published: February 2023

Aim

Postprandial secretion of the appetite‐inhibiting hormones, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), and peptide YY are reduced with obesity. It is unclear if the reduced secretion persists following weight loss (WL), if other appetite‐inhibiting hormones are also reduced, and if so whether reduced secretion results from intrinsic changes in the gut.

Methods

To address whether WL may restore secretion of GLP‐1 and other appetite‐inhibiting hormones, we performed a gut perfusion study of the small intestine in diet‐induced obese (DIO) rats after WL. A 20% weight loss (means ± SEM (g): 916 ± 53 vs. 703 ± 35, p < 0.01, n = 7) was induced by calorie restriction, and maintained stable for ≥7 days prior to gut perfusion to allow for complete renewal of enteroendocrine cells. Age‐matched DIO rats were used as comparator. Several gut hormones were analyzed from the venous effluent, and gene expression was performed on gut tissue along the entire length of the intestine.

Results

Secretion of cholecystokinin, gastrin, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide, GLP‐1, neurotensin, and somatostatin was not affected by WL during basal conditions (p ≥ 0.25) or in response to macronutrients and bile acids (p ≥ 0.14). Glucose absorption was indistinguishable following WL. The expression of genes encoding the studied peptides, macronutrient transporters (glucose, fructose, and di‐/tripeptides) and bile acid receptors did also not differ between DIO and WL groups.

Conclusions

These data suggest that the attenuated postprandial responses of GLP‐1, as well as reduced responses of other appetite‐inhibiting gut hormones, in people living with obesity may persist after weight loss and may contribute to their susceptibility for weight regain.
Editorial: An international showcase
Authors: Nind Melanie
Published: February 2023

Accessible summary

After the consultation with people with learning disabilities, the topic of health inequalities was chosen for the 2024 special issue.

The lives of people with learning disabilities around the world was also of interest to people so we have made this the theme of this issue. There are papers from the Czech Republic, Hong Kong, Belgium, Chile and Iceland.

We also have papers about life in the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Defining cases of asthma, eczema and allergic rhinitis using electronic health records in the Born in Bradford birth cohort
Authors: Souza da Cunha Sergio , Santorelli Gillian , Pembrey Lucy
Published: February 2023

Key Messages

• In electronic health records, the accuracy of diagnostic codes to define outcomes can be uncertain

• The accuracy can vary in different settings, doctors and practices, even with validated codes

• We recommend definitions combining codes previously described and other codes available in the records
miR‐26a‐5p alleviates CFA‐induced chronic inflammatory hyperalgesia through Wnt5a/CaMKII/NFAT signaling in mice
Authors: Lu Yitian , Liu Maozhu , Guo Xiangna , Wang Peng , Zeng Fanning , Wang Haitao , Tang Jing , Qin Zaisheng , Tao Tao
Published: February 2023

Background

Inflammation often leads to the occurrence of chronic pain, and many miRNAs have been shown to play a key role in the development of inflammatory pain. However, whether miR‐26a‐5p relieves pain induced by inflammation and its possible mechanism are still unclear.

Methods

The complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced inflammatory pain mouse model was employed. Intrathecal or subcutaneous injection of miR‐26a‐5p agomir was performed after modeling to study its antinociceptive effect and the comparison of different administration methods. Bioinformatics analysis of miRNAs was performed to study the downstream mechanisms of miR‐26a‐5p. HE staining, RT‐qPCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence were used for further validation.

Results

A single intrathecal and subcutaneous injection of miR‐26a‐5p both reversed mechanical hypersensitivity and thermal latency in the left hind paw of mice with CFA‐induced inflammatory pain. HE staining and immunofluorescence studies found that both administrations of miR‐26a‐5p alleviated inflammation in the periphery and spinal cord. Bioinformatics analysis and dual‐luciferase reporter gene analysis identified Wnt5a as a direct downstream target gene of miR‐26a‐5p. Wnt5a was mainly expressed in neurons and microglia in the spinal cord of mice with inflammatory pain. Intrathecal injection of miR‐26a‐5p could significantly reduce the expression level of Wnt5a and inhibit the downstream molecules of noncanonical Wnt signaling Camk2/NFAT, inhibiting the release of spinal cord inflammatory factors and alleviating the activation of microglia. In addition, miR‐26a‐5p could also inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated BV2 cell inflammation in vitro through a noncanonical Wnt signaling pathway.

Conclusions

miR‐26a‐5p is a promising therapy for CFA‐induced inflammatory pain. Both intrathecal and subcutaneous injections provide relief for inflammatory pain. miR‐26a‐5p regulated noncanonical Wnt signaling to be involved in analgesia partly through antineuroinflammation, suggesting a pain‐alleviating effect via noncanonical Wnt signaling pathway in the CFA‐induced inflammatory pain model in vivo.
Marsdenia tenacissima extract prevents the malignant progression of glioma through upregulating lncRNA MEG3 and SFRP1‐dependent inhibition of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Chen Lei , Gong Xin , Huang Mengyi
Published: February 2023

Background/Aim

Recent studies have highlighted the tumor‐suppressive effect of Marsdenia tenacissima extract (MTE) on human cancers. This research unveils the potential impact of MTE on glioma and ascertains the relevant molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Glioma cells were treated with MTE, with normal human astrocytes (NHAs) as controls. A battery of function experiments, including the CCK‐8 viability test, colony formation assay, scratch migration assay, and Transwell invasion assay, was executed to address the responses of glioma cells to MTE treatment and gain or loss of function of lncMEG3, miR‐542‐3p, and SFRP1. FISH, RIP, and dual‐luciferase reporter assays were adopted for assessing gene interactions. U251‐GFP‐Luc cells were delivered into nude mice through intracranial injection to develop an orthotopic glioma model for in vivo validation.

Results

200 mg/mL MTE could suppress the proliferating, migrating, and invading properties of glioma cells but not affect those of NHAs. MTE treatment enhanced the expression of lncMEG3, which competes with SFRP1 for binding miR‐542‐3p. SFRP1 could inactivate the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Animal experimentation substantiated the antitumor activity and mechanism of MTE in nude mice.

Conclusions

MTE suppresses glioma via the lncMEG3/miR‐542‐3p/SFRP1/Wnt/β‐catenin axis. These findings contribute to a theoretical basis for the use of MTE for glioma patients.