bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of N-type inactivation and the coupling between N-type and C-type inactivation in the Aplysia Kv1 channel
Authors: Iwamuro Tokunari , Itohara Kazuki , Furukawa Yasuo
Published: July 2024

The voltage-dependent potassium channels (Kv channels) show several different types of inactivation. N-type inactivation is a fast inactivating mechanism, which is essentially an open pore blockade by the amino-terminal structure of the channel itself or the auxiliary subunit. There are several functionally discriminatable slow inactivation (C-type, P-type, U-type), the mechanism of which is supposed to include rearrangement of the pore region. In some Kv1 channels, the actual inactivation is brought about by coupling of N-type and C-type inactivation (N-C coupling). In the present study, we focused on the N-C coupling of the Aplysia Kv1 channel (AKv1). AKv1 shows a robust N-type inactivation, but its recovery is almost thoroughly from C-type inactivated state owing to the efficient N-C coupling. In the I8Q mutant of AKv1, we found that the inactivation as well as its recovery showed two kinetic components apparently correspond to N-type and C-type inactivation. Also, the cumulative inactivation which depends on N-type mechanism in AKv1 was hindered in I8Q, suggesting that N-type inactivation of I8Q is less stable. We also found that Zn$$^{2+}$$

2
+

specifically accelerates C-type inactivation of AKv1 and that H382 in the pore turret is involved in the Zn$$^{2+}$$

2
+

binding. Because the region around Ile$$^8$$

8

(I8) in AKv1 has been suggested to be involved in the pre-block binding of the amino-terminal structure, our results strengthen a hypothesis that the stability of the pre-block state is important for stable N-type inactivation as well as the N-C coupling in the Kv1 channel inactivation.
Identification of homologs of the Chlamydia trachomatis effector CteG reveals a family of Chlamydiaceae type III secreted proteins that can be delivered into host cells
Authors: Pereira Inês Serrano , da Cunha Maria , Leal Inês Pacheco , Luís Maria Pequito , Gonçalves Paula , Gonçalves Carla , Mota Luís Jaime
Published: July 2024

Chlamydiae are a large group of obligate endosymbionts of eukaryotes that includes the Chlamydiaceae family, comprising several animal pathogens. Among Chlamydiaceae, Chlamydia trachomatis causes widespread ocular and urogenital infections in humans. Like many bacterial pathogens, all Chlamydiae manipulate host cells by injecting them with type III secretion effector proteins. We previously characterized the C. trachomatis effector CteG, which localizes at the host cell Golgi and plasma membrane during distinct phases of the chlamydial infectious cycle. Here, we show that CteG is a Chlamydiaceae-specific effector with over 60 homologs phylogenetically categorized into two distinct clades (CteG I and CteG II) and exhibiting several inparalogs and outparalogs. Notably, cteG I homologs are syntenic to C. trachomatis cteG, whereas cteG II homologs are syntenic among themselves but not with C. trachomatis cteG. This indicates a complex evolution of cteG homologs, which is unique among C. trachomatis effectors, marked by numerous events of gene duplication and loss. Despite relatively modest sequence conservation, nearly all tested CteG I and CteG II proteins were identified as type III secretion substrates using Yersinia as a heterologous bacterial host. Moreover, most of the type III secreted CteG I and CteG II homologs were delivered by C. trachomatis into host cells, where they localized at the Golgi region and cell periphery. Overall, this provided insights into the evolution of bacterial effectors and revealed a Chlamydiaceae family of type III secreted proteins that underwent substantial divergence during evolution while conserving the capacity to localize at specific host cell compartments.
Responsiveness and minimal important change of specific and generic patient-reported outcome measures for back patients: the Norwegian Neck and Back Register
Authors: Skatteboe Sigrid , Røe Cecilie , Heide Marte , Brox Jens Ivar , Ignatius Janica , Bratsberg Andrea , Wilhelmsen Maja , Bjørneboe John
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate responsiveness and minimal important change (MIC) of Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), pain during activity on a numeric rating scale (NRSa) and health related quality of life (EQ-5D) based on data from the Norwegian neck and back registry (NNRR).

Methods

A total of 1617 patients who responded to NNRR follow-up after both 6 and 12 months were included in this study. Responsiveness was calculated using standardized response mean and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. We calculated MIC with both an anchor-based and distribution-based method.

Results

The condition specific ODI had best responsiveness, the more generic NRSa and EQ-5D had lower responsiveness. We found that the MIC for ODI varied from 3.0 to 9.5, from 0.4 to 2.5 for NRSa while the EQ5D varied from 0.05 to 0.12 depending on the method for calculation.

Conclusion

In a register based back pain population, the condition specific ODI was more responsive to change than the more generic tools NRSa and EQ5D. The variations in responsiveness and MIC estimates also indicate that they should be regarded as indicative, rather than fixed estimates.
The short peptide encoded by long non-coding RNA RNF217-AS1 inhibits stomach cancer tumorigenesis, macrophage recruitment, and pro-inflammatory responses
Authors: Ma Qi , Ma Fei , Zhang Bin , Zhang Yonglei , Peng Liangqun , Li Xiangnan
Published: July 2024

Certain long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have potential peptide-coding abilities. Here, the role and molecular basis of the RNF217-AS1-encoded peptide in stomach cancer (SC) tumorigenesis were explored. Here, lncRNAs associated with SC pathogenesis and macrophage infiltration and lncRNAs with peptide-coding potential were searched by bioinformatics analysis. The gene mRNA and protein levels were examined by RT-qPCR and western blot assays, respectively. Cell viability, migratory, and invasive abilities were measured by CCK-8, Transwell migration, and Transwell invasion assays, respectively. The potential biological processes related to lncRNA RNF217-AS1 were identified by single-gene GSEA analysis. The effect of RNF217-AS1-encoded peptide on SC tumorigenesis was examined by mouse xenograft experiments. The results showed that lncRNA NR2F1-AS1 and RNF217-AS1 were differentially expressed and associated with macrophage infiltration in SC, and they had the ability to translate into short peptides. The RNF217-AS1 ORF-encoded peptide could reduce SC cell viability, inhibit cell migration and invasion, as well as hinder the development of SC xenograft tumors. The RNF217-AS1 ORF-encoded peptide in human SC AGS cells suppressed THP-1 cell migration, triggered the differential expression of CXCL1/CXCL2/CXCL8/CXCL12, and inactivated the TLR4/NF-κB/STAT1 signaling pathways. As a conclusion, the RNF217-AS1 ORF-encoded peptide hindered SC progression in vitro and in vivo and suppressed macrophage recruitment and pro-inflammatory responses in SC.
Home Treatment in der Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie in Niederösterreich
Authors: Zauner Johanna , Dörfler Sylvia , Schrank Beate , Mittmann Gloria , Dorczok Marie Celine , Neumann Matthias , Steiner-Hofbauer Verena
Published: July 2024

Angesichts des globalen Anstiegs psychiatrischer Erkrankungen gewinnen Behandlungen im häuslichen Umfeld von Patient:innen (Home Treatments, HTs) in der psychiatrischen Versorgung zunehmend an Bedeutung. Die vorliegende Studie folgt einem thematischen Analyseansatz, um Daten aus Interviews mit acht Expert:innen zu analysieren, die im Rahmen von HTs der Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie des Universitätsklinikums Tulln, Niederösterreich, tätig sind. Ziel war es, ihre Erfahrungen und Ansichten zu HTs zu erfassen, mit einem speziellen Fokus auf die Evaluierung von HTs. Es wurde eine iterative Framework-Analyse angewendet, um Haupt- und Unterthemen zu identifizieren.

Im Rahmen der Analyse der durchgeführten Interviews wurden insgesamt 88 Kodierungen ermittelt, die vier Hauptthemen umfassen: wichtige Aspekte, Anforderungen, Evaluation und mögliche Verbesserungen. HTs bieten eine niedrigschwellige und individuell zugeschnittene Behandlungs- bzw. Versorgungsmöglichkeit für junge Patient:innen mit starker Einbindung des sozialen Umfelds, welche ein tieferes Verständnis und eine engere Beziehung zu Gesundheitsfachkräften fördert. Anforderungen umfassen vorrangig den Wunsch nach Veränderung, realistische Zielsetzungen und Compliance der Patient:innen. Im Rahmen der Evaluation können diverse Ergebnisvariablen miteingeschlossen werden. Dabei sollen Einschätzungen verschiedener Evaluator:innen berücksichtigt und das Patient:innenumfeld miteinbezogen werden. Zukünftige Forschungen sollten sich auf die Evaluierung von HTs konzentrieren, um deren Einsatz und Angebote weiter zu fördern und auszubauen.
Clinical effects of teriparatide, abaloparatide, and romosozumab in postmenopausal osteoporosis
Authors: Ebina Kosuke , Etani Yuki , Noguchi Takaaki , Nakata Ken , Okada Seiji
Published: July 2024

In the management of osteoporosis, anti-resorptive agents serve as a primary therapeutic approach. However, in cases where individuals exhibit an increased susceptibility to fractures, such as those characterized by severe low bone mass or a history of vertebral or hip fractures that markedly diminish life expectancy, the immediate reduction of fracture risk through the administration of osteoanabolic agents could be beneficial. Teriparatide, available in daily, once-weekly, or twice-weekly dosages, along with abaloparatide and romosozumab, constitutes a trio of such agents. Each of these medications is defined by unique characteristics, distinct efficacy profiles, and specific adverse effects. There is growing evidence to suggest that these agents have a superior effect on enhancing bone mineral density and reducing fracture incidence when compared to traditional bisphosphonate therapies. Nonetheless, their employment demands thorough consideration of clinical indications, which includes evaluating economic factors, the frequency of injections required, and the potential for adverse effects. The objective of this review is to consolidate the current evidence focusing primarily on the efficacy of these agents, with the goal of enhancing understanding and aiding in making more informed treatment decisions, particularly for those individuals who are at an elevated risk of fractures.
Virtual reality exposure effect in acrophobia: psychological and physiological evidence from a single experimental session
Authors: Kristína Varšová , Dagmar Szitás , Oto Janoušek , Lenka Jurkovičová , Kateřina Bartošová , Vojtěch Juřík
Published: July 2024

In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has gained attention from researchers in diverse fields, particularly in therapy of phobias. Currently, virtual reality exposure therapy therapy (VRET) is considered a promising cognitive-behavioral therapy technique. However, specific psychological and physiological responses of VR users to virtual exposure in such a context are still only vaguely explored. In this experimental study, we mapped VR exposure in a height environment in people with a moderate fear of heights–acrophobia. Thirty-six participants were divided into experimental and control groups–with and without psychological guidance during exposure. Participants' subjective level of anxiety was examined, and objective physiological response was captured via heart rate variability (HRV) measurement. Psychological assessments recorded an anticipated rise in participant anxiety following exposure to height; nevertheless, no distinctions were observed in self-reported anxiety concerning psychological guidance. Notably, objective physiological measures revealed that VR exposure prompts physiological responses akin to real-world scenarios. Moreover, based on the analysis of heart rate variability, participants who received psychological guidance were identified as better at compensating for anxiety compared to those without such support. These findings support VRET as a promising tool for psychotherapy and advocate for psychological guidance as beneficial in reducing anxiety and managing stress during exposure. The results may help improve our understanding of anxiety during exposure to phobic stimuli.
Cognitive asymmetry in rats in response to emergent vs. disappearing affordances
Authors: Pisula Wojciech , Modlinska Klaudia , Chrzanowska Anna , Goncikowska Katarzyna
Published: July 2024

This study examines the effects of novel environmental changes on the behavior of rats in an experimental chamber. We hypothesized that newly discovered opportunities, detected by the animal’s cognitive system, would motivate greater investigation of environmental changes than comparable changes that prevent a given behavior. Three experiments differed in the emergence vs. elimination of affordances represented by open or closed tunnels. In Experiment 1, rats were habituated to a chamber with all four tunnels closed, and then two tunnels were opened. In Experiment 2, rats were habituated to a chamber where all four tunnels were open, and then two tunnels were closed. In Experiment 3, rats were habituated to a chamber with two open tunnels on one side, and two closed tunnels on the other. Then, the arrangement of open and closed tunnels was swapped. Results of the Exp. 1 show that the rats responded by spending more time near the newly opened tunnels and less time near the closed tunnels, the central zone, and the transporter. This suggests that rats are more motivated to investigate the environmental change combined with the emergent affordance (opening of the tunnels) than the environmental change alone. In Exp. 2, the rats responded by spending more time near the open tunnels and less time in the central zone. This suggests that the rats are more triggered by the available affordances (open tunnels) than by the environmental change (closed tunnels). Finally, in Exp. 3, the rats responded by spending more time near the newly opened tunnels and less near the central zone. However, they did not spend less time near the newly closed tunnels. These results suggest that rats process both the novelty itself and the emergence/disappearance of available affordances. The results are discussed regarding the cognitive asymmetry in the perception of emergent vs. disappearing affordances. It is proposed that the rat’s cognitive system is specialized for detecting newly emergent environmental opportunities/affordances rather than novelty in general.
Impact of acid and laser etching of enamel on microleakage in different adhesive systems
Authors: Atilan Yavuz Sevim , Erturk Avunduk Ayse Tugba , Karatas Ozcan , Çakır Kılınç Nazire Nurdan , Delikan Ebru
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the microleakage of light-cured and self-cured adhesives on enamel surfaces selectively etched with Er, Cr: YSGG laser or 35% phosphoric acid. A total of 60 class V cavities were prepared 1 mm above the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ). The specimens were randomly divided into six groups. Group 1: Clearfil SE Bond with no conditioning, Group 2: Tokuyama Universal Bond with no conditioning, Group 3: Clearfil SE Bond conditioned with 35% phosphoric acid, Group 4: Tokuyama Universal Bond conditioned with 35% phosphoric acid, Group 5: Clearfil SE Bond conditioned with Er, Cr: YSGG laser and Group 6: Tokuyama Universal Bond conditioned with Er, Cr: YSGG laser. Microleakage was evaluated qualitatively (visually) and quantitatively (ImageJ). The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS V23 and submitted to Kruskal–Wallis and Wilcoxon tests. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. In all evaluation methods, the microleakage scores exhibit significant differences (p*<0.001). Group 1 and Group 3 exhibited similar and lower microleakage values than the Group 5. In the occlusal margin, the microleakage values were similar in Group 2, Group 4, and Group 6, whereas in the gingival margin Group 4 showed significantly lower leakage compared to Group 2. Regardless of the etching protocols and adhesive systems used, less microleakage was observed on the occlusal surface than on the gingival surface. Phosphoric acid etching provides better results than laser etching for enamel surface treatment on both occlusal and gingival surfaces.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Japanese physicians relating to climate change impacts on health, delivery of climate-specific advice, and advocacy for climate change policies
Authors: Igarashi Niaya Harper , Suzuki Shu , Cahill Eri , Shimabukuro Akira , Sugawara Joji , Hashizume Masahiro
Published: July 2024

Aim

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of physicians in Japan toward climate change and health, their delivery of climate-specific advice to patients, and their advocacy for climate change policy.

Subject and methods

This cross-sectional study included licensed physicians active in clinical practice in Japan. Data were collected through a web-based platform from November 21 through November 27, 2023, using a 32-item self-administered questionnaire.

Results

A total of 1100 physicians with a mean age of 51.2 years (SD11.9) were included in the analysis. More than half (56.7%) agreed that physicians should advise their patients on the links climate change has on their health; however, less than half (32.6%) of the physicians responded that they do. Among the factors that reduced their action to deliver climate-specific health advice and advocacy were a lack of information/resources and knowledge. The multivariable logistic regression model showed that having prior climate change education or training, knowledge, and awareness is associated with physicians’ delivery of climate-specific advice to patients and advocating for climate change policy.

Conclusion

Many physicians recognize their responsibility to educate their patients on the impact climate change has on their health. There is a significant gap between the physicians’ willingness and what happens in practice. Among the main factors that reduce their action to engage in delivering climate-specific health advice and advocacy were a lack of information/resources and a lack of knowledge. Physicians need to be better equipped with the education, resources, and support to apply their expertise and influence to combat climate change.
SNCA is a potential therapeutic target for COVID-19 infection in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients
Authors: Chen Can , Li Yun , Li Yiwei , Chen Zhenzhen , Shi Pengfei , Xie Yaping , Qian Shenxian
Published: July 2024

Cuprotosis related genes (CRGs) have been proved to be potential therapeutic targets for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and cancer, but their immune and molecular mechanisms in COVID-19 infection in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBC/DLBCL) patients are rarely reported. Our research goal is first to screen the key CRGs in COVID-19 through univariate analysis, machine learning and clinical samples. Secondly, we determined the expression and prognostic role of key CRGs in DLBCL through pan-cancer analysis. We validated the expression levels and prognosis using multiple datasets and independent clinical samples and validated the functional role of key CRGs in DLBCL through cell experiments. Finally, we validated the expression levels of CRGs in COVID-19 infected DLBCL patients samples and analyzed their common pathways in COVID-19 and DLBCL. The results show that synuclein-alpha (SNCA) is the common key differential gene of COVID-19 and DLBCL. DLBCL cells confirm that high expression of SNCA can significantly promote cell apoptosis and significantly inhibit the cycle progression of DLBCL. High expression of SNCA can regulate the binding of major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs) and T cell receptor (TCR) by regulating immune infiltration of Dendritic cells, effectively enhancing T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity and clearing cancer cells. In conclusion, SNCA may be a potential therapeutic target for COVID-19 infection in DLBCL patients. Our study provides a theoretical basis for improving the clinical treatment of COVID-19 infection in DLBCL patients.
Needs, Experiences, and Hopes for Aging Futures among Older Adults in the LGBTQ Communities: A Qualitative Study in Israel
Authors: Sperling Daniel
Published: July 2024

Older lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals tend to live alone, mostly without children and with scarce support from nuclear family members or biological kin. Moreover, traditional resources may not suit their specific end-of-life care needs. While studies have examined these topics in general, they lack focus on end-of-life needs, care, and planning in Israel. Moreover, research on this topic among members of LGBTQ communities is specifically lacking. This study, therefore, aimed at identifying and understanding the attitudes, perceptions, and meanings of older LGBTQ individuals in Israel regarding their needs and challenges, as they age and near end of life. The phenomenological qualitative research methodology was applied, following the interpretive approach. Twenty-one middle-aged and older LGBTQ individuals in Israel, aged ≥ 55, participated in the study. In-depth semi-structured interviews, conducted from November 2020 to April 2021, were audio-recorded, transcribed, and de-identified. Five themes emerged from the interviews: (1) Experiences of loneliness, marginalization, and trauma, and coping through liberation; (2) ageism and exclusion of older adults; (3) elastic and challenging relationships; (4) end of life as reverting into the closet and heteronormativity; and (5) death as a source of generativity and creativity. The study demonstrates that loneliness is an existential experience, exacerbated by the intersectionality of LGBTQ communities. In turn, chosen family members play a minimal role in the end-of-life care of their loved ones. While conveying ambivalence toward social services and housing for the aging, participants in this study expressed fear of being discriminated against and having to re-enter the closet as they age. Ageism and end of life do not represent finality and extinction, yet instead, signify hope and revival. Following Sandberg and Marshall’s (2017) concept of queering aging futures, this study refines our understanding of life courses, demonstrating that living and thriving in old age could be positive and desirable. As such, ageism and end of life do not necessarily represent finality and extinction, and may instead signify hope and revival. The unique challenges associated with family and social support of older adults who are LGBTQ members, and their implications on care, deserve further research and are important for practice.
The Treatment Needs and Experiences of Pedohebephiles: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chronos Agatha , Jahnke Sara , Blagden Nicholas
Published: July 2024

People with a sexual interest in children face significant barriers to seeking and receiving mental health treatment. This review aims to bridge the gap between the treatment needs and experiences of pedohebephiles, and the services aiming to support them. Reviewers screened 1705 database hits and extracted findings from 22 qualitative, 15 quantitative, and 3 mixed-method studies on the treatment needs and experiences of pedohebephiles. Research suggests that this population experiences significant levels of distress, depression, and anxiety related to their sexual interest. Many individuals belonging to this population would seek (median = 42.3%), or have sought (median = 46.5%), treatment to cope with their sexual interest or with potential related mental health repercussions. Their experiences in treatment have been mixed, with some reporting positive experiences with empathic therapists and others reporting rejection. Most frequently, pedohebephiles report fear of exposure and rejection as barriers to seeking treatment, in addition to fear of the legal repercussions. The current study is the first to summarize and discuss previous findings on the treatment needs and experiences of pedohebephiles. The findings indicate that the treatment needs of pedohebephiles often remain unaddressed. Suggestions to increase the fit between treatment services and the needs of pedohebephiles are put forward.
Analysis of eigenvalue condition numbers for a class of randomized numerical methods for singular matrix pencils
Authors: Kressner Daniel , Plestenjak Bor
Published: July 2024

The numerical solution of the generalized eigenvalue problem for a singular matrix pencil is challenging due to the discontinuity of its eigenvalues. Classically, such problems are addressed by first extracting the regular part through the staircase form and then applying a standard solver, such as the QZ algorithm, to that regular part. Recently, several novel approaches have been proposed to transform the singular pencil into a regular pencil by relatively simple randomized modifications. In this work, we analyze three such methods by Hochstenbach, Mehl, and Plestenjak that modify, project, or augment the pencil using random matrices. All three methods rely on the normal rank and do not alter the finite eigenvalues of the original pencil. We show that the eigenvalue condition numbers of the transformed pencils are unlikely to be much larger than the $$\delta $$
δ
-weak eigenvalue condition numbers, introduced by Lotz and Noferini, of the original pencil. This not only indicates favorable numerical stability but also reconfirms that these condition numbers are a reliable criterion for detecting simple finite eigenvalues. We also provide evidence that, from a numerical stability perspective, the use of complex instead of real random matrices is preferable even for real singular matrix pencils and real eigenvalues. As a side result, we provide sharp left tail bounds for a product of two independent random variables distributed with the generalized beta distribution of the first kind or Kumaraswamy distribution.
How to Design Green Compensation to Promote Managers’ Pro-Environmental Behavior? A Goal-Framing Perspective
Authors: Yin Yishuai , Wang Yue , Lu Ying
Published: July 2024

Human resource management (HRM) scholars and practitioners are increasingly interested in how to leverage HRM tools to address pressing environmental issues while balancing an organization’s need for profit. One important theme of this line of research is the use of contingent compensation (i.e., green compensation) to motivate managers to engage in pro-environmental behavior. However, current research on the efficacy of green compensation in promoting managers’ environmental contribution yields two seemingly contradictory views. First, based on agency theory, green compensation is found to be an effective tool to elicit managers’ environmental efforts. On the other hand, from a stewardship theory perspective, green compensation is regarded as ineffective in attempts to stimulate managers’ environmental contributions. In this paper, we propose that this potential conflict could stem from the way green compensation is designed. To address this issue, drawing upon goal-framing theory, we develop a normative theoretical framework toward designing key features of green compensation that could help to promote managers’ pro-environmental behaviors while mitigating potential pitfalls. These key features include explicitly acknowledging managers’ contributions to environmental endeavors, distribution of the compensation by prominent stakeholders with salient pro-environmental values, distribution of the compensation in public ceremonies, ensuring modesty in size of the compensation compared with managers’ non-contingent compensation, monitoring outcome and process performance, and developing group-based in addition to individual-based compensation. We conclude with implications of this design for theory and practice.
HMGB1 as an extracellular pro-inflammatory cytokine: Implications for drug-induced organic damage
Authors: Yuan JianYe , Guo Lin , Ma JiaTing , Zhang HeJian , Xiao MingXuan , Li Ning , Gong Hui , Yan Miao
Published: July 2024

Drug-induced organic damage encompasses various intricate mechanisms, wherein HMGB1, a non-histone chromosome-binding protein, assumes a significant role as a pivotal hub gene. The regulatory functions of HMGB1 within the nucleus and extracellular milieu are interlinked. HMGB1 exerts a crucial regulatory influence on key biological processes including cell survival, inflammatory regulation, and immune response. HMGB1 can be released extracellularly from the cell during these processes, where it functions as a pro-inflammation cytokine. HMGB1 interacts with multiple cell membrane receptors, primarily Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), to stimulate immune cells and trigger inflammatory response. The excessive or uncontrolled HMGB1 release leads to heightened inflammatory responses and cellular demise, instigating inflammatory damage or exacerbating inflammation and cellular demise in different diseases. Therefore, a thorough review on the significance of HMGB1 in drug-induced organic damage is highly important for the advancement of pharmaceuticals, ensuring their effectiveness and safety in treating inflammation as well as immune-related diseases. In this review, we initially outline the characteristics and functions of HMGB1, emphasizing their relevance in disease pathology. Then, we comprehensively summarize the prospect of HMGB1 as a promising therapeutic target for treating drug-induced toxicity. Lastly, we discuss major challenges and propose potential avenues for advancing the development of HMGB1-based therapeutics.

Graphical Abstract

Graphical Headlights

(1) A comprehensive overview of the intricate relationship between HMGB1 and drug-induced organ toxicity is presented, accompanied by the corresponding treatment strategies.

(2) The present study addresses significant obstacles and suggests potential strategies for furthering the progress of HMGB1-based therapeutics.

(3) The research prospects of HMGB1 are also summarized.
Value of risk aversion in perishable products supply chain management
Authors: Pathy Soumya Ranjan , Rahimian Hamed
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we study optimal procurement and inventory decisions for a supply chain with a single perishable product under demand uncertainty. To control risk, on the one hand, we use a risk-averse objective, and on the other hand, we utilize a chance constraint to satisfy demand with a high probability. We formulate the problem as a two-stage stochastic program with a chance constraint and risk-averse objective, where long-term decisions on pre-positioning products are made in the first stage, while recourse decisions on reallocation and emergency procurement are made in the second stage. To allow for different risk preferences, we incorporate conditional value-at-risk into the objective function and study its combination with the expectation or worst-case of the second-stage costs. To solve the resulting models, we develop various variants of the L-shaped method, based on dual and primal decomposition, and by leveraging the connection between the optimization of coherent risk measures and distributionally robust optimization. Through extensive numerical experiments, we demonstrate the value of risk aversion and present a comparative computational study on the performance of different algorithms.
Television shows ideation, and testing with smart digital twins to advance ratings
Authors: Hornik Jacob , Rachamim Matti
Published: July 2024

Generating ideas for immersive television shows is fundamental to the television industry. TV channel managers are looking to stay ahead of their competitors and are turning to many advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things, virtual reality, cloud and fog computing. These technologies with other autonomous devices, technologies, surveys, models, and software are creating extensive, complex, and diverse television data sets. These data diversity and heterogeneity may hinder television research. Thus, there is a clear need to synthesize, synchronize, and integrate the large-scale data sets according to predefined decision rules and research objectives. Against this backdrop, this paper introduces a new platform of data integration and modeling—television digital twins. Digital twins (DTs) are virtual copies of products, services, processes, or humans encompassing all the relevant entities’ qualities. Although numerous research studies have been published on DTs, none hitherto have been conducted in media and television. This research aims to bridge two perspectives: on one side, the authors acknowledge the value of TVDT as a data fusion platform. On the other side, the authors build on previous scholarship to suggest a conceptual framework for implementing this platform in future TV studies.
Unravelling the complexities of wetland agriculture, climate change, and coping mechanisms: an integrative review using economics and satellite approaches
Authors: Islam Md. Monirul
Published: July 2024

The flash flood-affected wetland region of Bangladesh contributes around 20–25% of the annual Boro rice production, which is vital for local, regional, and national food security. Considering the crucial significance of Boro rice and the growing susceptibility of wetland regions to flash floods and climate change, it is imperative to investigate viable approaches and adaptation methods to reduce the adverse effects on agricultural output. This review study investigated the relationships between wetlands, climate change, and coping mechanisms while incorporating economic and advanced satellite remote sensing approaches. Through a comprehensive analysis of flash flood impacts on Boro rice yield using satellite remote sensing technique, the findings revealed significant adverse effects on the vegetative reproduction of Boro rice in the study areas. Notably, flash floods in 2017 exhibited more pronounced impacts than other years (2018 and 2019), underscoring the urgency for effective and integrated coping strategies to ensure sustainable agricultural production. Consequently, the study identified and discussed probable coping strategies, including changes in cropping patterns through land suitability assessment, evaluating vulnerable areas through vulnerability mapping, analyzing yield forecasting models, and introducing a damage-based crop insurance approach to mitigate farmers’ losses. These probable adaptation strategies will offer viable solutions to address the recurrent issue of flash floods and safeguard sustainable agricultural production in the wetland areas of Bangladesh. Considering the current situation, climate change issues and probable alternative coping strategies are crucial for developing a resilient agricultural system in light of flash floods, ensuring the long-term viability of wetland agriculture. The study outcomes provide valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in wetland agricultural planning and management to develop proper and long-term sustainable adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Gender diversity and climate disclosure: a tcfd perspective
Authors: Dias Ana Isabel , Pinheiro Pedro , Fernandes Sónia
Published: July 2024

The paradigm of corporate environmental disclosures aimed at investors developed in 2017 with the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. Existing literature on social responsibility disclosures points to gender diversity on the board of directors as an influencing factor. This study aims to assess the influence of gender diversity in climate-related financial disclosures, as recommended by the TCFD based on a sample of 27 companies operating within the sectors of electricity, oil, coal and gas, water, and alternative energy that have announced their adherence to the recommendations from 2017 to 2021. By applying a linear regression model, the results indicate the presence of a positive association between the level of TCFD disclosures and board gender diversity, as well as other factors, such as company size, CEO duality, and general liquidity. However, the influence of board gender diversity on corporate reporting based on the TCFD recommendations suggests that the commitment of boards to the reporting of climate change risks and opportunities is not significantly dependent on gender diversity, as the presence of women in the Boards is favorable for the reporting but without a significant impact on the level of disclosures. This research offers insights into sustainability reporting practices, focusing on a relatively new perspective of reporting climate-related financial topics and their determinants. The findings hold implications for organizational leaders and stakeholders, mainly investors, as these recent sustainable reporting practices are challenging but also bring new opportunities related to transparency towards climate-related issues.
A rheological model analog for assessing the resilience of socio-technical systems across sectors
Authors: Stolz Alexander , Tang Jet Hoe , Fischer Stefan G. , Fischer Kai
Published: July 2024

A rheological model is proposed that captures the performance loss and properties of a potential subsequent recovery of socio-technical systems subject to arbitrary disruptions. The model facilitates the quantitative assessment of such systems’ resilience. While most models known from the literature describe systems that fully recover from aforementioned load events, the proposed model can capture also permanent performance loss or post disruption improvement. To demonstrate the versatility of the approach for a wide range of the socio-technical system spectrum, the model is applied to three systems: the frequency stability of the continental Europe power grid, flight operations of German airports, and the revenue of the German gastronomic sector. Fitting the proposed two-spring, one-damper, single-degree-of-freedom model to the recorded performance data determines relevant parameters which serve as a quantitative measure of the respective system’s resilience. The small set of model parameters can be associated with relevant resilience dimensions. Variation of these parameters allows to quantitively determine the change of the model’s response to the load events, and thus of the resilience predicted by the model. This allows to identify parameter ranges in which the model predicts, e.g., full recovery of a system, instead of permanent performance loss.
Comprehensive analysis of drought tolerance in pure lines derived from half-diallel crosses of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Gören Hatice Kübra
Published: July 2024

Drought has a significant impact on plants, affecting their growth, development and survival. This study focuses on evaluating the impact of drought stress, a significant abiotic factor, on the agronomic and fiber parameters of potential cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) lines with the aim of developing drought-tolerant varieties. The experiment involved two irrigation regimes—well-watered (100% field capacity) and deficit irrigation (50% field capacity)—conducted on F9–F10 generations. Key fiber parameters, including fiber length, boll weight, fiber strength, and lint percentage, were identified as crucial selection criteria under both well-watered and deficit irrigation conditions. Notably, boll number emerged as the decisive parameter in both F9 and F10 generations. The study employed univariate and multivariate analyses, such as PCA, heat map cluster, correlation analysis, and decision tree, which consistently highlighted fiber length, boll weight, fiber strength and lint (ginning) percentage the key factor. In the F10 generation, the integration of decision tree and heat map cluster results led to the identification of 8 promising lines. These selected genotypes have potential for inclusion in future cotton breeding programmes, offering the opportunity to increase drought tolerance and improve cotton yield and productivity. Their resilience to environmental stresses makes them promising candidates for improving overall cotton performance under challenging conditions.
Biosynthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles Using Geum urbanum L. Rhizome Extracts and Their Biological Efficiency
Authors: Macovei Irina , Harabagiu Valeria , Burlec Ana Flavia , Mircea Cornelia , Horhogea Cristina Elena , Rimbu Cristina Mihaela , Săcărescu Liviu , Panainte Alina-Diana , Miron Anca , Hăncianu Monica , Nechita Constantin , Corciova Andreia
Published: July 2024

The present study evaluates the biosynthesis of AgNPs and AuNPs using aqueous and ethanolic Geum urbanum L. rhizome extracts. The biosynthesized metal nanoparticles (MNPs) were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, DLS, SEM, EDX, and TEM. The UV-Vis spectra confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs and AuNPs through peaks corresponding to the surface plasmon effect of metallic Ag (400–430 nm) and Au (530–570 nm). FTIR analysis indicated that alcohols, phenols, proteins, and carbohydrates from G. urbanum rhizome extracts composition are involved in MNPs synthesis. In DLS analysis, AgNPs (34.26–41.14 nm) showed smaller hydrodynamic diameters than AuNPs (46.26–70.29 nm). At the same time, all values for zeta potential were negative, between − 21 and − 13 mV, suggesting good stabilities for all the colloidal MNPs systems in dispersion. TEM analysis showed that the biosynthesized AgNPs had a spherical morphology, while AuNPs were quasi-spherical, polygonal, and triangular. According to TEM data, AgNPs synthesized using aqueous and ethanolic G. urbanum rhizome extracts were characterized by mean diameters of 9.82 ± 3.68 and 14.29 ± 3.46 nm, while AuNPs by 15.88 ± 6.28 and 24.89 ± 10.75 nm, respectively. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of metallic Ag and Au in the MNPs composition by detecting strong signals at 3 (AgNPs) and 2.2 keW (AuNPs). In disc diffusion assay, MNPs showed good antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive (S. aureus MSSA, S. aureus MRSA, S. epidermidis) and Gram-negative (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae) bacteria and yeasts (C. albicans). AgNPs and AuNPs were also characterized by a significant antioxidant potential, evaluated through in vitro assays (lipoxygenase inhibition, DPPH radical scavenging activity, metal ion chelating activity, and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays). An overall better activity was obtained for the ethanolic G. urbanum rhizome extract and its derived AgNPs (EC50 = 34.2 ± 1.86 mg/mL in lipoxygenase inhibition assay). Therefore, the G. urbanum rhizome extracts proved to be excellent sources for biologically active AgNPs and AuNPs.
A study of laser-remelted flame-sprayed NiCrBSi/W composite coatings: the influence of thermal diffusivity
Authors: Szajna E. , Tupaj M. , Moskal G. , Dudek A. , Tomaszewska A. , Trzcionka-Szajna A. , Szymański K. , Trytek A. , Galek T.
Published: July 2024

The article presents research results on the microstructure of laser-remelted NiCrBSi coatings deposited with flame spraying. Two types of coating powders were used. Commercial Metco 15E powder is strengthened with chromium-based carbide and boride phases based on a eutectic form of Ni(Cr) solid solution matrix with borides and Ni silicides. The second powder was also Metco 15E but with the addition of 50 mass% metallic tungsten granules. In both cases, identical parameters of the flame spraying and laser melting processes were used. It was found that introducing tungsten significantly changes the morphology of the coating. This applies to the size of the heat-affected zone, its microstructural nature (grain growth), and the dilution effect. These elements influenced the level of hardness obtained, which was lower in the case of the modified coating. At the same time, however, the modified coating was characterised by a stable microhardness distribution in the cross section, especially in connection with the substrate material. This indicates a strong tendency of tungsten to annihilate the dilution effect and inhibits the decrease in the hardness of the carbide and boride phases associated with the increase in iron content. The factor responsible for the described effects is a significant difference in the thermal diffusivity of the materials used to produce the coatings. This size significantly impacts the scale of the created heat-affected zone and directly affects the mixing effect.
Aim or preference? Reflections on the commitment to the truth in the criminal process
Authors: Picinali Federico
Published: July 2024

It is widely accepted that the criminal process aims at the truth. It is also widely accepted that convicting the innocent is worse than acquitting the guilty. While apparently unrelated, these two claims are in tension with one another. The latter claim is traditionally used to justify a standard of proof that is skewed in favour of the defendant, aimed at protecting the innocent from conviction. A skewed standard, however, is not the standard of proof that minimises expected errors; that is, it is not the standard to choose if truth-finding is indeed the aim of the criminal process. The article attempts to overcome this tension. It argues that, if someone seeks consistency between the commitment to the truth and the commitment to protecting the innocent from conviction, they should treat true outcomes as a preference on which the process is based, not as a/the aim of the process. Notably, a preference entails a more modest practical commitment than that entailed by an aim. Taking this more modest commitment to the truth has implications for the regulation of any phase of the criminal process in which the value of truth appears to be in tension with non-epistemic values.
Partitioned least squares
Authors: Esposito Roberto , Cerrato Mattia , Locatelli Marco
Published: July 2024

Linear least squares is one of the most widely used regression methods in many fields. The simplicity of the model allows this method to be used when data is scarce and allows practitioners to gather some insight into the problem by inspecting the values of the learnt parameters. In this paper we propose a variant of the linear least squares model allowing practitioners to partition the input features into groups of variables that they require to contribute similarly to the final result. We show that the new formulation is not convex and provide two alternative methods to deal with the problem: one non-exact method based on an alternating least squares approach; and one exact method based on a reformulation of the problem. We show the correctness of the exact method and compare the two solutions showing that the exact solution provides better results in a fraction of the time required by the alternating least squares solution (when the number of partitions is small). We also provide a branch and bound algorithm that can be used in place of the exact method when the number of partitions is too large as well as a proof of NP-completeness of the optimization problem.
Topological twists of massive SQCD, Part II
Authors: Aspman Johannes , Furrer Elias , Manschot Jan
Published: July 2024

This is the second and final part of ‘Topological twists of massive SQCD’. Part I is available at Lett. Math. Phys. 114 (2024) 3, 62. In this second part, we evaluate the contribution of the Coulomb branch to topological path integrals for $$\mathcal {N}=2$$

N
=
2

supersymmetric QCD with $$N_f\le 3$$

N
f

≤
3

massive hypermultiplets on compact four-manifolds. Our analysis includes the decoupling of hypermultiplets, the massless limit and the merging of mutually non-local singularities at the Argyres–Douglas points. We give explicit mass expansions for the four-manifolds $$\mathbb {P}^2$$

P

2

and K3. For $$\mathbb {P}^2$$

P

2

, we find that the correlation functions are polynomial as function of the masses, while infinite series and (potential) singularities occur for K3. The mass dependence corresponds mathematically to the integration of the equivariant Chern class of the matter bundle over the moduli space of Q-fixed equations. We demonstrate that the physical partition functions agree with mathematical results on Segre numbers of instanton moduli spaces.