bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting financial distress in non-financial sector of Pakistan using PCA and logit
Authors: Hassan Ehsanul , Awais-E-Yazdan Muhammad , Birau Ramona , Wanke Peter , Tan Yong Aaron
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop a robust predictive model for anticipating financial distress within Pakistani companies, providing a crucial tool for proactive economic turbulence management.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this objective, the study examines a comprehensive data set comprising nonfinancial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange from 2005 to 2022. It investigates 23 financial ratios categorized under profitability, liquidity, leverage, asset efficiency, size and growth.

Findings

The study reveals that financial ratio indices are more effective in forecasting financial distress compared to individual ratios. These indices achieve impressive accuracy rates, ranging from a robust 93.90% in the first year leading up to bankruptcy to a commendable 73.71% in the fifth year. Furthermore, the research identifies profitability, liquidity, leverage, asset efficiency, size and growth as pivotal indicators for financial distress prediction.

Originality/value

This research underscores the utility and practicality of financial ratio indices, offering a comprehensive perspective on risk assessment and management. In conclusion, this pioneering study provides valuable insights into financial distress prediction, highlighting the enhanced information capture made possible by financial ratio indices. It equips stakeholders in the Pakistan Stock Exchange with an effective means to proactively address financial risks.
Secondhand savvy: examining the influence of prior experience on motivators and barriers in parents' choice of children's secondhand products
Authors: Silva Susana C , Shimabukuro Sandes Fabio , Pires Ana Sofia
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to examine the motivators and barriers parents face when acquiring secondhand products for their children while specifically investigating the potential influence of prior experience on the relationship between these motivators, barriers and parents' purchase intention toward secondhand clothing for their children.

Design/methodology/approach

To address these objectives, a survey was conducted, yielding 265 valid responses. The sample comprised parents, with 96 having previous experience buying secondhand products and 169 without such experience. Multiple and binomial linear regression analyses were employed to examine the collected data.

Findings

Two motivators (economic motivation and environmental sustainability) and three barriers (social embarrassment, hygiene and risk) were tested, and our findings indicate that environmental sustainability and the perception of risk significantly influenced the intention to buy secondhand products for childrenswear. The results showed that for consumers with previous experience, the perception of risk is nonsignificant, suggesting that experience influences consumers' barriers to buying secondhand products.

Originality/value

This article is focused on the consumer behavior of parents who buy clothes for their children, and it is one of the few articles that proposes and tests a theoretical framework aiming to find empirical evidence about the motivators and barriers to consuming secondhand products in this market.

Research limitations/implications

This study was specific to the childrenswear market, with characteristics that incentivize secondhand consumption, which might limit the findings.

Practical implications

The results suggest that marketers should focus their efforts on highlighting sustainability claims when advertising their secondhand products to consumers and investing in incentivizing consumers to buy secondhand products for the first time, as it might reduce barriers to their consumption in the future.
Does workplace incivility trigger the intention to self-initiate expatriation? An investigation among young Tunisian physicians
Authors: Gara Bach Ouerdian Emna , Gaha Khadija , Mansour Nizar
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relationship between workplace incivility and the intention to self-initiate expatriation and whether this relationship is mediated by affective organizational commitment. It also explores the moderating role of career commitment in this proposed model.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected using a questionnaire among 145 young physicians from Tunisian hospitals. Hypotheses are tested using the PROCESS macro (models 4 and 7) in SPSS.

Findings

Workplace incivility is negatively related to affective organizational commitment, which in turn is related to the intention to self-initiate expatriation. Furthermore, career commitment moderates the indirect effect of workplace incivility on expatriate intention through affective organizational commitment. Specifically, when career commitment is high, the indirect effect on the intention to self-initiate expatriation is stronger.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to examine the indirect influence of workplace incivility on the intention to self-initiate expatriation. Moreover, it furthers our understanding of a contingent factor that influences this indirect effect.
Antecedents to consumer responses to cause­related marketing campaigns: an empirical investigation in a developing country
Authors: Moharam Omneya Mohamed , Yacout Omneya Mokhtar
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to test the effect of cause-related marketing (CRM), campaign-related marketing and consumer-related antecedents on consumers’ behavioral responses in a developing-country context.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive cross-sectional research design was used. An online questionnaire was distributed, and a sample of 738 Egyptians was obtained. Both the SPSS25 and Smart PLS software were used to report the results.

Findings

Results revealed that campaign-related antecedents had stronger effects on consumer attitudes than consumer-related antecedents. The most important campaign-related antecedents were brand function fit and hedonic product type. Extrinsic religiosity affected brand attitude and was also the most important predictor of purchase intention. Other predictors of purchase intention were brand attitude, hedonic product type and brand function fit. Furthermore, the effect of brand attitude on purchase intention was positive and significant. Cause involvement and others’ – centered attribution of corporate motives positively moderated the relationship between attitudes and purchase intention. Conversely, skepticism and self-centered attribution of corporate motives negatively moderated brand attitudes and purchase intention relationships. Research implications and suggestions for future research were also presented.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the existing academic literature by providing a better understanding of the effect of consumer and campaign-related variables on consumer attitudes and purchase intentions in a CRM context. It also helps understand the role of the two dimensions of religiosity in forming attitudes and purchase intentions for CRM campaigns. Furthermore, the research examines two possible moderators of the attitude–behavior gap through the lenses of signaling theory, prosocial behavior theory, theory of reasoned action and attribution theory.
Digital environments as sites for informal workplace learning in knowledge work
Authors: Karhapää Anne , Rikala Pauliina , Pöysä-Tarhonen Johanna , Hämäläinen Raija
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how digital technologies at work serve as environments for informal workplace learning in knowledge work.

Design/methodology/approach

Digital ethnography was used to investigate the digital environments of one public sector workplace. The data included observations, interviews and participant diaries.

Findings

The digital work environment consisted of a complex network of technologies and people connected to them. The ethnographic accounts revealed both expansive and restrictive features of the digital environment. Digital technology extended learning opportunities by providing flexible possibilities for interaction, collaboration and access to a wealth of information. On the contrary, digitally mediated presence could restrict learning if the attendance and learning remained superficial. The complexity and constant change in digital workplace environments presented challenges that could potentially restrict learning. Information overload, constant interruptions and changes were burdens that required employees’ skills to manage these challenges.

Originality/value

The authors take a novel approach to view the workplace as a phygital environment in which social, physical and digital environments are combined. Because digital environments are becoming increasingly essential parts of the workplace, it is important to understand how they can support learning.
Digital financial inclusion and environmental sustainability in Africa: the moderating effect of income inequality
Authors: Ahiase Godwin , Nugraha Nugraha , Andriana Denny , Sari Maya
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examines the effect of digital financial inclusion (DFI) on climate change in African countries, taking into account the moderating effect of income inequality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs panel data from 53 African countries between 2004 and 2021 and utilises the random-effects model and two-step generalised method of moments (GMM) to estimate the relationships amongst DFI, income inequality, CO2 emissions and renewable energy consumption (REC).

Findings

Our findings reveal that increased accessibility to automated teller machines (ATMs) leads to a reduction in CO2 emissions and an increase in REC. However, the effect of ATMs on CO2 emissions is stronger for individuals with lower incomes, whereas REC is higher for those with higher incomes. Additionally, mobile cellular subscriptions (MCS) increase both CO2 emissions and REC; however, when income inequality is considered, it results in a reduction in CO2 emissions and an increase in REC. Furthermore, Internet usage reduces CO2 emissions and increases REC in Africa, with income inequality levels further improving its contribution.

Practical implications

ATM accessibility and energy efficiency are means to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions and encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to explore the effects of income inequality on DFI, CO2 emissions and REC, highlighting its importance in Africa and its potential impact on environmental sustainability.
Developing an evaluation framework for an online midwifery programme: a practical participatory approach
Authors: Kuipers Yvonne , Norris Gail , Crozier Suzanne , McLuckie Connie
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to generate knowledge about relevant evaluation topics that align with and represent the unique character of the midwifery programme for students living in the rural and remote areas of Scotland.

Design/methodology/approach

The first two central concepts of Practical Participatory Evaluation (P-PE) framed the research design: the data production process and (2) the knowledge co-construction process. The data were collected using a semi-structured approach via online discussions, dialogues and email-based consultation among programme stakeholders. A structural analysis was performed: the units of meaning (what was said) were extracted, listed and quantified in units of significance (what the texts were talking about), from which the key topics for evaluation emerged.

Findings

A community of 36 stakeholdersengaged in the discussions, dialogues and consultations. The stakeholders identified 58 units of significance. Fifteen subthemes were constructed in five main themes: student profile, student well-being, E-pedagogy, student journey/transition from being a nurse to becoming a midwife and learning in (an online) geographically remote and isolated area. The themes, or topics of evaluation, are dynamic functions and underlying mechanisms of the commonly used evaluation measures student progress and student evaluation.

Research limitations/implications

This P-PE is a single-site study, focusing on a unique programme consisting of a specific group of students living and studying a specific geographic area, affecting the transferability of the findings.

Originality/value

In collaboration with stakeholders, parameters to evaluate the uniqueness of the programme in addition to higher education institution routinely collected data on student progress and satisfaction were systematically identified. The themes highlight that if student progress and satisfaction were the only evaluation parameters, knowledge and understanding of the contributing factors to (un)successfulness of this unique online midwifery programme could be missed.
Jordanian nurses’ competencies in providing community care during disaster: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Abu Sumaqa Yasmeen , Alhamory Sajeda , Abu-Abbas Manar , Rayan Ahmad , Alradaydeh Mutaz Foad , Alrida Nour , Al-Rajabi Omymah Zain Alddin , Alzaatreh Mohammad Y. , Khalifeh Anas H. , Al Omar Saleh , Abd EINaeem Manal Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the perceived level of Jordanian nurses’ competencies in offering care to the community during a disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

A correlational descriptive design was used to assess nurses’ competencies in offering care for the community during a disaster.

Findings

A total of 370 nurses (55 % males) aged 25−55 agreed to participate. The mean score of competencies of nurses who offer care to the community during the disaster was 2.11 (SD = 0.59) points. The results of correlation coefficient tests revealed a significant positive correlation between stated competencies level and nurses’ sex, receiving disaster education and training with rpb (371) = 0.13, p < 0.01; rpb (598) = 0.15, p = 0.004; rpb (598) = 0.21, p < 0.001, respectively. Furthermore, the “care of communities” subscale had a weak positive correlation with the.

Originality/value

Nurses play a critical role in disaster response. However, there was a gap in nurses’ competencies for disaster, which shows there is a crucial need to include disaster management courses in the nursing curriculum and update disaster management courses in hospitals based on nurses’ needs to improve their competencies during disasters.
A new species of Odontarrhena (Brassicaceae) endemic to Greek ultramafics: From taxonomy to metal accumulation behavior
Authors: Bettarini Isabella , Bianchi Elisabetta , Colzi Ilaria , Coppi Andrea , Echevarria Guillaume , Gonnelli Cristina , Selvi Federico
Published: June 2024

A new species of Odontarrhena (Brassicaceae) is described from Mount Vourinos in western Macedonia, Greece. The species is restricted to the ridge and the northern slopes of Mt. Vourinos above 1500 m a.s.l. and grows on stony slopes and dry rocky grassland on ultramafic soil with elevated trace metal concentrations. Based on morphological, karyological, and nrDNA sequences, the species is tetraploid with supernumerary B‐chromosomes (2n = 4× = 32 + 2B) and related to the Balkan endemic Odontarrhena decipiens. It differs from the latter mainly by the habit of subshrub with woody base and a denser indumentum of stellate trichomes, resulting in a white‐silvery color of the leaves and shoots. The presence of four degenerate positions in the ITS1 region was detected only in the new species from Mt. Vourinos. Shoot Ni concentrations determined by x‐ray fluorescence analysis and atomic absorption spectroscopy were largely variable (6200–18,700 μg g−1 dw), but always significantly higher than in roots. Hydroponic trials confirmed the typical features of Ni hyperaccumulating plants, such as growth stimulating effect at low metal doses and shoot metal concentration above the hyperaccumulation threshold. The new species of Odontarrhena is a Ni hyperaccumulator with substantial aboveground biomass production, making it a promising candidate for phytomining applications.
Small Boats, Big Contracts: Extracting Value from the UK's Post‐Brexit Asylum ‘Crisis’
Authors: Mayblin Lucy , Davies Thom , Isakjee Arshad , Turner Joe , Yemane Tesfalem
Published: June 2024

This article discusses post‐Brexit asylum policy in the UK. On the surface, Brexit had little impact on asylum, but Brexit, combined with the new phenomenon of small boat Channel crossings, created the conditions for a new and extreme UK policy agenda. It explains how politicians have sought to deliver border sovereignty performatively after Brexit by introducing extreme measures, ostensibly—though not practically—to stop small boat Channel crossings, and how private actors have sought to profit from people seeking asylum within this policy regime. These interrelated political and financial interests are pursued irrespective of the fact that none of the policies being advanced will ‘stop the boats’.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers and gestational weight gain: a multi‐center prospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Zifan , Williams Paige L. , Bellavia Andrea , Wylie Blair J. , Kannan Kurunthachalam , Bloom Michael S. , Hunt Kelly J. , Hacker Michele R. , Zhang Cuilin , James‐Todd Tamarra
Published: June 2024

Objective

To evaluate the associations of plasma polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) concentrations in early pregnancy with gestational weight gain (GWG).

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

US‐based, multicentre cohort of pregnant women.

Population

We used data from 2052 women without obesity and 397 women with obesity participating in the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies – Singleton Cohort, with first‐trimester plasma PBDE concentrations and weight measurements throughout pregnancy.

Methods

We applied generalised linear models and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) to evaluate both the individual and joint associations of PBDEs with measures of GWG, adjusting for potential confounders.

Main outcome measures

Total GWG (kg), total and trimester‐specific GWG velocities (kg/week), and GWG categories and trajectory groups.

Results

Mean pre‐pregnancy BMIs were 23.6 and 34.5 kg/m2 for women without and with obesity, respectively. Among women without obesity, there were no associations of PBDEs with any GWG measure. Among women with obesity, one standard deviation increase in log‐transformed PBDE 47 was associated with a 1.87 kg higher total GWG (95% CI 0.39–3.35) and a 0.05 kg/week higher total GWG velocity (95% CI 0.01–0.09). Similar associations were found for PBDE 47 in BKMR among women with obesity, and PBDE 47, 99 and 100 were associated with lower odds of being in the low GWG trajectory group.

Conclusions

PBDEs were not associated with GWG among individuals without obesity. Among those with obesity, only PBDE 47 showed consistent positive associations with GWG measures across multiple statistical methods. Further research is needed to validate this association and explore potential mechanisms.
Absolute gains, relative losses: How the poor and the rich view redistribution differently
Authors: PASTOR MAYO MARCO
Published: June 2024

How do people perceive the utility of redistribution? Support for redistribution is commonly understood as being determined by self‐interest in a way that is monotonically proportional to expected net transfers. However, this would imply that average support for redistribution is static and unaffected by changes in the distribution of incomes. This study addresses this incongruence by integrating concepts from the literature on redistribution preferences, namely the diminishing marginal utility of income, inequity aversion and loss aversion. These concepts are formalized by making two distinctions regarding redistribution: absolute versus relative utility and gains versus losses. An analysis of the European/World Values Survey suggests that the preferences of the poor are determined by absolute gains, while the preferences of the rich are determined by relative losses. In other words, the poor care about how much they gain from redistribution, while the rich care about the share of their income that they lose from it. The findings have important implications for the relationships among public opinion, economic development and income inequality.
Knowledge and practical skills for cancer pain management among nurses on remote islands in Japan and related factors nationwide
Authors: Shimizu Sachiko , Yoshida Satomi , Nerome Yasuhito
Published: June 2024

Objective

To clarify the knowledge and practical skills needed for cancer pain management among nurses on remote islands in Japan and related factors nationwide.

Setting

Due to geographical factors, nurses working on remote islands in Japan have few opportunities to attend training programs, which makes it difficult to acquire the knowledge and practical skills needed to provide pain management for patients with cancer.

Methods

We conducted a self‐administered questionnaire survey regarding knowledge and practical skills in pain management for patients with cancer.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Participants

Nurses working in cancer pain care in medical facilities and home care on remote islands throughout Japan.

Results

We analysed 128 responses. Regarding knowledge, the average accuracy level was 49.1%. Items with a low accuracy rate included selecting medicine according to the type of pain and the patient's condition. Regarding practice, the items with low scores included analgesics appropriate for the type of pain and relating physical pain to mental, social and spiritual aspects. The most common significant factor in both knowledge and practice was related to postgraduate training.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that to improve the knowledge and practical skills for cancer pain management among nurses on remote islands in Japan, it is necessary to incorporate clinical reasoning into basic education and establish remote education systems and consultation systems with other facilities.
The stimulation of TH2 cells results in increased IL‐5 and IL‐13 production via the H4 receptor
Authors: Nikolouli Eirini , Mommert Susanne , Dawodu Damilola Modupe , Schaper‐Gerhardt Katrin , Stark Holger , Dittrich‐Breiholz Oliver , Gutzmer Ralf , Werfel Thomas
Published: June 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease resulting in decreased quality of life. Histamine and specifically the H4 receptor play a key role in the inflammatory process in AD and serve as targets for novel therapeutic approaches.

Objective

In the present study we aimed to elucidate the immunopathological mechanisms with which the H4 receptor impacts TH2 cells and contributes to AD pathophysiology.

Methods

Total CD4+ T cells obtained from healthy or AD individuals and in vitro differentiated TH2 cells were cultured under different conditions and the mRNA expression or protein production of target molecules were determined using quantitative real‐time PCR and ELISA.

Results

H4 receptor mRNA expression was upregulated concentration dependent upon IL‐4 stimulation in in vitro differentiated TH2 cells progressively during the differentiation. Transcriptomic analysis of in vitro differentiated TH2 versus TH1 cells revealed that the H4 receptor among other genes represents one of the highly upregulated genes in TH2 cells.

Most importantly, increased amounts of IL‐5 and IL‐13 mRNA expression were detected in in vitro differentiated TH2 cells as well as protein secretion in the presence of histamine or of the H4 receptor‐selective‐agonist when compared to the untreated control.

Conclusion

We show for the first time an H4 receptor dependent upregulation of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐5 and IL‐13 in human TH2 cells by histamine. This suggests that the blockade of the H4 receptor may lead to downregulation of these cytokines and amelioration of AD symptoms as reported in first clinical studies.
Association between intravenous fluids during labor and primary postpartum hemorrhage: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bruce Belinda R. , Shepherd Heather L. , Khan Saleem Ahmed , Haunton Charlotte R. , Leask Julie , De Vries Bradley S.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

There is a major research gap relating to the impact of intravenous (IV) fluids administration during labor on maternal and neonatal outcomes. It is biologically plausible that a relationship between volume of IV fluids and primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) exists. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate whether the administration of high‐volume IV fluids during labor (≥ 2500 mL) increases the risk of primary PPH and other adverse outcomes for women with a term, singleton pregnancy, in comparison to low‐volume IV fluids during labor (<2500 mL).

Material and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary referral hospital in Sydney, Australia between 1st September 2021 and 31st October 2022. Inclusion criteria were: women with a live singleton fetus in a cephalic presentation; planning a vaginal birth; and admitted for labor and birth care between 37 and 42 week gestation. The study factor was IV fluids during labor and the primary outcome was primary PPH ≥500 mL. Secondary outcomes included cesarean section and major perineal injury. Pregnancy, birth, and postnatal data were obtained from the hospital's electronic clinical database, electronic medical records, and paper fluid order documentation. Multivariable logistic regression and multiple imputation were used to explore the relationship between volume of IV fluids in labor and PPH.

Results

A total of 1023 participants were included of which 339 had a primary PPH (33.1%). There was no association between high‐volume IV fluids and PPH after adjusting for demographic and clinical factors (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj]1.02 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.72, 1.44). However, there was a positive association between high‐volume IV fluids and cesarean section (ORadj 1.99; 95%CI 1.4, 2.8).

Conclusions

The findings of this research are important to further knowledge relating to the administration of IV fluids during labor. The findings emphasize the importance of accurately documenting IV fluids administration and identifies research priorities to enable us to better understand the broader implications of IV fluids administration on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes.
An alternative organizational model for a more democratic and equitable digital economy: A systematic literature review on platform cooperativism through the lens of stakeholder theory. Competitive advantages and challenges
Authors: Ghirlanda Pietro , Kirov Vassil
Published: June 2024

Platform cooperatives, namely, businesses that sell goods or services primarily through a website, mobile app, or protocol and commit to the principles of democratic governance and shared ownership, have lately been proposed as a more sustainable, equitable and, under certain conditions, even efficient alternative to the organizational model of commercial platforms. Accordingly, they have been presented as economic institutions capable of involving all their relevant stakeholders in an extended and inclusive governance structure. Nevertheless, this emerging literature is still characterized by the lack of a holistic and analytic framework connecting the dispersed studies on the topic through the lens of stakeholder theory and detailing strategic complementarities between these different stakeholders. Related to this point, while dealing with the competitive advantages and challenges of platform cooperatives, little reference has been made to the existing debate in governance theory about the advantages and challenges of cooperative firms as compared to capitalist ones. These research gaps motivated our literature review, which is the first comprehensive systematic review specifically focused on this topic. Given the still‐emerging character of the research object, our work also makes way for future updates as new contributions are gradually published.
Myeloproliferative neoplasms in the adolescent and young adult population: A comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Goulart Hannah , Masarova Lucia , Mesa Ruben , Harrison Claire , Kiladjian Jean‐Jacques , Pemmaraju Naveen
Published: June 2024

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are characterized by a clonal proliferation of myeloid lineage cells within the bone marrow. The classical BCR‐ABL negative MPNs are comprised of polycythaemia vera, essential thrombocythaemia and primary myelofibrosis. Historically, the majority of MPNs are diagnosed in adults older than 60 years of age; however, in recent years, there has been recognition of MPNs in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population. AYAs with MPN, typically defined as between the ages of 15 and 39 years old, may comprise up to 20% of patients diagnosed with MPN. They demonstrate unique patterns of driver mutations and thrombotic events and remain at risk for progression to more aggressive disease states. Given the likely long length of time they will live with their disease, there is a significant unmet need in identifying well‐tolerated and effective treatment options for these patients, particularly with the advent of disease modification. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical features, disease course and management of AYA patients with MPN and, in doing so, highlight key characteristics that distinguish them from their older counterparts.
The environment to the rescue: can physics help predict predator–prey interactions?
Authors: Cherif Mehdi , Brose Ulrich , Hirt Myriam R. , Ryser Remo , Silve Violette , Albert Georg , Arnott Russell , Berti Emilio , Cirtwill Alyssa , Dyer Alexander , Gauzens Benoit , Gupta Anhubav , Ho Hsi‐Cheng , Portalier Sébastien M. J. , Wain Danielle , Wootton Kate
Published: June 2024

Understanding the factors that determine the occurrence and strength of ecological interactions under specific abiotic and biotic conditions is fundamental since many aspects of ecological community stability and ecosystem functioning depend on patterns of interactions among species. Current approaches to mapping food webs are mostly based on traits, expert knowledge, experiments, and/or statistical inference. However, they do not offer clear mechanisms explaining how trophic interactions are affected by the interplay between organism characteristics and aspects of the physical environment, such as temperature, light intensity or viscosity. Hence, they cannot yet predict accurately how local food webs will respond to anthropogenic pressures, notably to climate change and species invasions. Herein, we propose a framework that synthesises recent developments in food‐web theory, integrating body size and metabolism with the physical properties of ecosystems. We advocate for combination of the movement paradigm with a modular definition of the predation sequence, because movement is central to predator–prey interactions, and a generic, modular model is needed to describe all the possible variation in predator–prey interactions. Pending sufficient empirical and theoretical knowledge, our framework will help predict the food‐web impacts of well‐studied physical factors, such as temperature and oxygen availability, as well as less commonly considered variables such as wind, turbidity or electrical conductivity. An improved predictive capability will facilitate a better understanding of ecosystem responses to a changing world.
Organismal trade‐offs and the pace of planktonic life
Authors: Kiørboe Thomas
Published: June 2024

No one is perfect, and organisms that perform well in some habitat or with respect to some tasks, do so at the cost of performance in others: there are inescapable trade‐offs. Organismal trade‐offs govern the structure and function of ecosystems and attempts to demonstrate and quantify trade‐offs have therefore been an important goal for ecologists. In addition, trade‐offs are a key component in trait‐based ecosystem models. Here, I synthesise evidence of trade‐offs in plankton organisms, from bacteria to zooplankton, and show how a slow–fast gradient in life histories emerges. I focus on trade‐offs related to the main components of an organism's Darwinian fitness, that is resource acquisition, survival, and propagation. All consumers need to balance the need to eat without being eaten, and diurnal vertical migration, where zooplankton hide at depth during the day to avoid visual predators but at the cost of missed feeding opportunities in the productive surface layer, is probably the best documented result of this trade‐off. However, there are many other more subtle but equally important behaviours that similarly are the result of an optimisation of these trade‐offs. Most plankton groups have also developed more explicit defence mechanisms, such as toxin production or evasive behaviours that are harnessed in the presence of their predators; the costs of these have often proved difficult to quantify or even demonstrate, partly because they only materialise under natural conditions. Finally, all multicellular organisms must allocate time and resources among growth, reproduction, and maintenance (e.g. protein turnover and DNA repair), and mate finding may compromise both survival and feeding. The combined effects of all these trade‐offs is the emergence of a slow–fast gradient in the pace‐of‐life, likely the most fundamental principle for the organisation of organismal life histories. This crystallisation of trade‐offs may offer a path to further simplification of trait‐based models of marine ecosystems.
Silencing PCMT1 enhances the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to paclitaxel through the PI3K/Akt/STMN1 pathway
Authors: Zhang Ke , Li Jin‐You , Li Kai
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate whether silencing Protein L‐isoaspartate (D‐aspartate) O‐methyltransferase (PCMT1) expression can enhance the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to paclitaxel and its possible mechanism. Tumor tissues and adjacent histologically normal tissues were collected from patients with breast cancer admitted to our hospital. Human normal breast epithelial cells MCF10A, human breast cancer cells MCF‐7, and paclitaxel‐resistant breast cancer cells MCF‐7/PR were purchased. MCF‐7/PR cells were further grouped into negative control (NC) group, si‐PCMT1 group (transfected with si‐PCMT1), 740Y‐P group (treated with 740Y‐P, an activator of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/ v‐Akt Murine Thymoma Viral Oncogene (AKT) signaling pathway), and si‐PCMT1 + 740Y‐P group (transfected with si‐PCMT1 and then treated with 740Y‐P). The expression level of PCMT1 in tissues and cells was detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Western blot analysis was used to detect the protein expression level of PCMT1 in tissues and cells as well as the protein level of p‐PI3K, PI3K, p‐Akt, Akt, and Stathmin1 (STMN1) in cells. 3‐(4,5)‐dimethylthiahiazo(‐z‐y1)‐3,5‐di‐phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) and colony formation assays were used to determine cell viability, scratch assay was used to assess the migration ability of cells, and Transwell assay was used to assess the invasion ability of cells. The expression of PCMT1 was remarkably up‐regulated in breast cancer tissues and MCF‐7/PR cells. Silencing PCMT1 expression significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of MCF‐7/PR cells, and alleviated the resistance of cancer cells to paclitaxel. Additionally, silencing PCMT1 expression also inhibited the activation of PI3K/Akt/STMN1 pathway in MCF‐7/PR cells, while activating PI3K/Akt/STMN1 pathway significantly reversed the effect of silencing PCMT1 expression on MCF‐7/PR cells. PCMT1 is highly expressed in breast cancer tissues and MCF‐7/PR cells, and silencing PCMT1 expression can not only inhibit the development of breast cancer but also enhance paclitaxel sensitivity. Its mechanism of action may be achieved by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/STMN1 signaling.
AutoVizuA11y: A Tool to Automate Screen Reader Accessibility in Charts
Authors: Duarte Diogo , Costa Rita , Bizarro Pedro , Duarte Carlos
Published: June 2024

Charts remain widely inaccessible on the web for users of assistive technologies like screen readers. This is, in part, due to data visualization experts still lacking the experience, knowledge, and time to consistently implement accessible charts. As a result, screen reader users are prevented from accessing information and are forced to resort to tabular alternatives (if available), limiting the insights that they can gather. We worked with both groups to develop AutoVizuA11y, a tool that automates the addition of accessible features to web‐based charts. It generates human‐like descriptions of the data using a large language model, calculates statistical insights from the data, and provides keyboard navigation between multiple charts and underlying elements. Fifteen screen reader users interacted with charts made accessible with AutoVizuA11y in a usability test, thirteen of which praised the tool for its intuitive design, short learning curve, and rich information. On average, they took 66 seconds to complete each of the eight analytical tasks presented and achieved a success rate of 89%. Through a SUS questionnaire, the participants gave AutoVizuA11y an “Excellent” score — 83.5/100 points. We also gathered feedback from two data visualization experts who used the tool. They praised the tool availability, ease of use and functionalities, and provided feedback to add AutoVizuA11y support for other technologies in the future.
Deconstructing Human‐AI Collaboration: Agency, Interaction, and Adaptation
Authors: Holter Steffen , El‐Assady Mennatallah
Published: June 2024

As full AI‐based automation remains out of reach in most real‐world applications, the focus has instead shifted to leveraging the strengths of both human and AI agents, creating effective collaborative systems. The rapid advances in this area have yielded increasingly more complex systems and frameworks, while the nuance of their characterization has gotten more vague. Similarly, the existing conceptual models no longer capture the elaborate processes of these systems nor describe the entire scope of their collaboration paradigms. In this paper, we propose a new unified set of dimensions through which to analyze and describe human‐AI systems. Our conceptual model is centered around three high‐level aspects ‐ agency, interaction, and adaptation ‐ and is developed through a multi‐step process. Firstly, an initial design space is proposed by surveying the literature and consolidating existing definitions and conceptual frameworks. Secondly, this model is iteratively refined and validated by conducting semi‐structured interviews with nine researchers in this field. Lastly, to illustrate the applicability of our design space, we utilize it to provide a structured description of selected human‐AI systems.
Cost‐sensitive tree SHAP for explaining cost‐sensitive tree‐based models
Authors: Kopanja Marija , Hačko Stefan , Brdar Sanja , Savić Miloš
Published: June 2024

Cost‐sensitive ensemble learning as a combination of two approaches, ensemble learning and cost‐sensitive learning, enables generation of cost‐sensitive tree‐based ensemble models using the cost‐sensitive decision tree (CSDT) learning algorithm. In general, tree‐based models characterize nice graphical representation that can explain a model's decision‐making process. However, the depth of the tree and the number of base models in the ensemble can be a limiting factor in comprehending the model's decision for each sample. The CSDT models are widely used in finance (e.g., credit scoring and fraud detection) but lack effective explanation methods. We previously addressed this gap with cost‐sensitive tree Shapley Additive Explanation Method (CSTreeSHAP), a cost‐sensitive tree explanation method for the single‐tree CSDT model. Here, we extend the introduced methodology to cost‐sensitive ensemble models, particularly cost‐sensitive random forest models. The paper details the theoretical foundation and implementation details of CSTreeSHAP for both single CSDT and ensemble models. The usefulness of the proposed method is demonstrated by providing explanations for single and ensemble CSDT models trained on well‐known benchmark credit scoring datasets. Finally, we apply our methodology and analyze the stability of explanations for those models compared to the cost‐insensitive tree‐based models. Our analysis reveals statistically significant differences between SHAP values despite seemingly similar global feature importance plots of the models. This highlights the value of our methodology as a comprehensive tool for explaining CSDT models.
Optimizing in vitro T cell differentiation by using induced pluripotent stem cells with GFP‐RUNX1 and mCherry‐TCF7 labelling
Authors: Zhao Yu , Cao Jiani , Xu Haoyu , Cao Weiyun , Cheng Chenxi , Tan Shaojing , Zhao Tongbiao
Published: June 2024

In vitro T‐cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) could potentially provide an unlimited source of T cells for cancer immunotherapy, which, however is still hindered by the inefficient obtaining functionally‐matured, terminally‐differentiated T cells. Here, we established a fluorescence reporter human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line termed TCF7mCherryRUNX1GFP, in which the endogenous expression of RUNX1 and TCF7 are illustrated by the GFP and mCherry fluorescence, respectively. Utilizing TCF7mCherryRUNX1GFP, we defined that the feeder cells incorporating CXCL12‐expressing OP9 cells with DL4‐expressing OP9 cells at a 1:3 ratio (OP9‐C1D3) significantly enhanced efficiency of CD8+ T cell differentiation from PSCs. Additionally, we engineered a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting EGFR into iPSCs. The CAR‐T cells differentiated from these iPSCs using OP9‐C1D3 feeders demonstrated effective cytotoxicity toward lung cancer cells. We anticipate this platform will help the in vitro HSPC and T cell differentiation optimization, serving the clinical demands of these cells.
Artificial refuges did not increase small mammal abundance after fire
Authors: Watchorn Darcy J. , Doherty Tim S. , Wilson Barbara A. , Garkaklis Mark J. , Driscoll Don A.
Published: June 2024

The interacting threats of invasive predators and altered fire regimes are key conservation issues for many native species globally. Artificial refuges have been proposed as a potential conservation tool to provide prey species with protection from invasive predators after fire, but we do not yet know whether they improve animal survival. To address this knowledge gap, we experimentally tested how small mammal abundance and species richness were influenced by the provision of artificial refuges after prescribed burns. We surveyed small mammals across five unburnt sites, seven burnt sites with artificial refuges, and eight burnt control sites following two prescribed fires in southeastern Australia. There were negative and neutral responses of small mammals to the burns, and relative abundance was positively correlated with structurally complex vegetation. Artificial refuges had no impact on abundance or species richness, irrespective of burn coverage. These findings suggest that this artificial refuge design may not be an effective tool for improving small mammal population persistence postfire, and as such we should not yet scale up their application. However, given the inherent context‐dependency of field experiments involving fire, which include difficult‐to‐control variables such as fire severity, predator activity, and population dynamics, we encourage researchers to undertake further experiments with artificial refuges in fire‐affected areas, including after severe wildfires when less vegetation cover remains. Such studies will help to build our understanding of their utility as a conservation tool across different ecosystems and fire types.
S2k‐Leitlinie zur Therapie der Hidradenitis suppurativa/Acne inversa – Kurzfassung
Authors: Zouboulis Christos C. , Bechara Falk G. , Fritz Klaus , Goebeler Matthias , Hetzer Frank H. , Just Elke , Kirsten Natalia , Kokolakis Georgios , Kurzen Hjalmar , Nikolakis Georgios , Pinter Andreas , Podda Maurizio , Rosinski Kerstin , Schneider‐Burrus Sylke , Taube Klaus‐M. , Volz Thomas , Winkler Thomas , Kristandt Anna , Presser Dagmar , Zouboulis Viktor A.
Published: June 2024

Die S2k‐Leitlinie der Hidradenitis suppurativa/Acne inversa (HS/AI) soll eine akzeptierte Entscheidungshilfe für die Auswahl/Durchführung einer geeigneten/suffizienten Therapie liefern. Hidradenitis suppurativa/Acne inversa ist eine chronisch‐rezidivierende, entzündliche, potenziell mutilierende Hauterkrankung des terminalen Haartalgdrüsenapparats, mit schmerzhaften, entzündlichen Läsionen in den apokrinen drüsenreichen Körperregionen. Ihre Punktprävalenz in Deutschland ist 0,3%, sie wird mit einer Verspätung von 10,0 ± 9,6 Jahren diagnostiziert. Abnormale Differenzierung der Keratinozyten des Haartalgdrüsenapparats und eine begleitende Entzündung bilden die zentrale pathogenetische Grundlage. Primäre HS/AI‐Läsionen sind entzündliche Knoten, Abszesse und drainierende Tunnel. Rezidive in den letzten 6 Monaten mit mindestens zwei Läsionen an den Prädilektionsstellen verweisen auf eine HS/AI mit einer 97‐prozentigen Genauigkeit. HS/AI‐Patienten leiden an einer deutlichen Einschränkung der Lebensqualität. Zur korrekten Therapieentscheidung sollen Klassifikation und Aktivitätsbewertung mit einem validierten Instrument erfolgen, wie dem International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Scoring System (IHS4). Hidradenitis suppurativa/Acne inversa wird nach der Ausprägung der nachweisbaren Entzündung in zwei Formen eingeteilt: aktive, entzündliche (milde, mittelschwere und schwere nach IHS4) und vorwiegend inaktive, nicht entzündliche (Hurley‐Grad‐I, ‐II und ‐III) HS/AI. Orale Tetrazykline oder eine 5‐tägige intravenöse Therapie mit Clindamycin sind mit der Effektivität von Clindamycin/Rifampicin vergleichbar. Subkutan applizierbares Adalimumab, Secukinumab und Bimekizumab sind für die Therapie der HS/AI zugelassen. Für die vorwiegend nicht entzündliche Erkrankungsform stehen verschiedene operative Verfahren zur Verfügung. Medikamentöse/chirurgische Kombinationen gelten als ganzheitliches Therapieverfahren.