bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Amygdalin in Apricot Kernels and Almonds Using LC-MS/MS
Authors: Makovi Carolyn M , Parker Christine H , Zhang Kai
Published: December 2022

Background

Cyanogenic glycosides are secondary metabolites in plants. In almonds and apricot kernels, amygdalin is an abundant cyanogenic glycoside. Upon consumption, amygdalin is enzymatically metabolized into hydrogen cyanide. Depending on the number of kernels consumed and the amygdalin concentration, ingestion of amygdalin-containing kernels may result in adverse effects. To better understand the US marketplace, the development and validation of analytical methods to reliably measure amygdalin in apricot kernels and almonds is needed to support the collection of occurrence and consumption data in retail products.

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the quantitation of amygdalin in apricot kernels and almonds following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Foods Program Guidelines for the Validation of Chemical Methods, 3rd Edition.

Methods

Apricot kernels and almonds were cryogenically homogenized and extracted using methanol containing an internal standard (IS), geniposide, followed by filtration, dilution, and LC-MS/MS analysis. Matrix effects were minimized using dilution. Quantitation was achieved using an external, solvent-based calibration.

Results

The amygdalin response was linear (r2 > 0.99) over a range of 0.05–50 µg/mL. The recovery of amygdalin spiked at 10–10 000 µg/g in sweet apricot kernels, raw almond, and dry-roasted almond ranged from 90 to 107% with RSDs ≤6%. The method limit of detection and limit of quantitation was 0.8 and 2.5 ng/g, respectively. Amygdalin concentrations in 18 market samples ranged from 2 to 24 000 µg/g. Corresponding estimates of cyanide concentration ranged from 0.2 to 1420 µg/g.

Conclusions

Method performance meets the acceptance criteria defined by FDA guidelines and is fit for purpose for the analysis of amygdalin in apricot kernels and almonds.

Highlights

An LC-MS/MS method is developed for the quantification of amygdalin in apricot kernels and almonds.
A New Multi-Analyte LC–MS-MS Screening Method for the Detection of 120 NPSs and 49 Drugs in Hair
Authors: Rubicondo J , Scuffi L , Pietrosemoli L , Mineo M , Terranova F , Bartucca M , Trignano C , Bertol E , Vaiano F
Published: December 2022

Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC–MS) has been increasingly used for screening purposes in forensic toxicology. High versatility and low time/resource consumption are the main advantages of this technology. Numerous multi-analyte methods have been validated in order to face the analytical challenge of new psychoactive substances (NPSs). However, forensic toxicologists must focus the attention also on “classical” NPSs and medicines, such as benzodiazepines (BDZs) and prescription opioids. In this paper, a new method for the simultaneous detection of 169 substances (120 NPSs and 49 other drugs) in hair by LC–MS-MS is described. After the decontamination of hair samples with dichloromethane, a 20-mg aliquot of the sample was mixed with 1 mL of methanol (MeOH; 0.1% of formic acid) and then sonicated at room temperature for 2 h. The mixture was then dried under nitrogen stream and reconstituted with 100 µL of MeOH. LC separation was achieved with a 100-mm-long C18 column in 35 min, and mass acquisition was performed in dynamic multiple reaction monitoring mode and in positive ionization. The analysis results were very sensitive, with the limit of quantification ranging from 0.07 to 10.0 pg/mg. Accuracy and precision were always within the acceptable criteria. Matrix effect and recovery rate ranges were from −21.3 to + 21.9% and from 75.0 to 99.3%, respectively. The new method was successfully applied in a preliminary study on the prevalence of NPSs, BDZs and other substances in case of driving license issuance. In 14% of cases, BDZs/antidepressants (mainly trazodone, diazepam/nordiazepam and flunitrazepam) were found. Codeine, ketamine, methylone and mephedrone were also detected.
Microglial activation and over pruning involved in developmental epilepsy
Authors: Wu Qiong , Wang Hua , Liu Xueyan , Zhao Yajuan , Su Peng
Published: December 2022

To understand the potential role of microglia in synaptic pruning following status epilepticus (SE), we examined the time course of expression of Iba-1, and immune and neuroinflammatory regulators, including CD86, CD206, and CX3CR1, and TLR4/NF-κB after SE induced by pilocarpine in rats. Behavioral tests, TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling) staining, immunohistochemical staining, Western blotting, PCR, and fluorescence double staining assessments were performed. The expression of Iba-1 protein was lowest in the control group, and peaked after 2 days (p < 0.001). CD86 and CD206 mRNA levels increased gradually in the microglia of the epilepsy group after 12 hours, 1 day, 2 days, and 3 days; peak expression was on the second day. The expression of the chemokine receptor CX3CR1 in microglia increased to varying degrees after SE, and expression of the presynaptic protein synapsin decreased. The expression of TLR4/NF-κB in microglia positively correlated with Iba-1 protein expression. These findings indicate that the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway may be involved in the activation and polarization of microglia in epilepsy and in excess synaptic pruning, which could lead to an increase in brain injury.
Function-Based Conceptual Engineering and the Authority Problem
Authors: Queloz Matthieu
Published: December 2022

In this paper, I identify a central problem for conceptual engineering: the problem of showing concept-users why they should recognize the authority of the concepts advocated by engineers. I argue that this authority problem cannot generally be solved by appealing to the increased precision, consistency, or other theoretical virtues of engineered concepts. Outside contexts in which we already aim to realize theoretical virtues, solving the authority problem requires engineering to take a functional turn and attend to the functions of concepts. But this then presents us with the problem of how to specify a concept’s function. I argue that extant solutions to this function specification problem are unsatisfactory for engineering purposes, because the functions they identify fail to reliably bestow authority on concepts, and hence fail to solve the authority problem. What is required is an authoritative notion of conceptual function: an account of the functions of concepts which simultaneously shows why concepts fulfilling such functions should be recognized as having authority. I offer an account that meets this combination of demands by specifying the functions of concepts in terms of how they tie in with our present concerns.
Inhibition of integrated stress response protects against lipid-induced senescence in hypothalamic neural stem cells in adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma
Authors: Wang Chaohu , Zhang Huarong , Fan Jun , Li Qing , Guo Rongrong , Pan Jun , Liu Yawei , Peng Junxiang , Zhu Qianchao , Feng Yiwen , Wu Chengdong , Luo Peng , Qiu Xiaoyu , Shi Jin , Deng Yingying , Qi Songtao , Liu Yi
Published: December 2022

Background

Adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) is a benign tumor with malignant clinical manifestations. ACP adjacent to the hypothalamus often presents with more severe symptoms and higher incidence of hypothalamic dysfunction. However, the mechanism underlying hypothalamic dysfunction remains unclear.

Methods

Immunostaining was performed to determine the nerve damage to the floor of the third ventricle (3VF) adjacent to ACP and to examine the recruitment and senescence of hypothalamic neural stem cells (htNSCs). The accumulation of lipid droplets (LDs) in htNSCs was evaluated via BODIPY staining, oil red O staining, and transmission electron microscopy. In vitro and in vivo assays were used to evaluate the effect of cystic fluid or oxidized low-density lipoprotein and that of oxytocin (OXT) on htNSC senescence and the hypothalamic function. The protein expression levels were analyzed using western blotting.

Results

htNSCs with massive LD accumulation were recruited to the damaged 3VF adjacent to ACP. The LDs in htNSCs induced senescence and reduced neuronal differentiation; however, htNSC senescence was effectively prevented by inhibiting either CD36 or integrated stress response (ISR) signaling. Furthermore, OXT pretreatment reduced lipotoxicity via the inhibition of ISR signaling and the repair of the blood–brain barrier.

Conclusions

Reduced LD aggregation or ISR signaling inhibition prevented senescence in htNSCs and identified molecular pathways and potential therapeutic targets that may improve hypothalamic dysfunction in ACP patients.
The Rise in Prevalence and Related Costs of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Diseases in South Korea, 2010–2021
Authors: Kim Joong-Yub , Kwak Nakwon , Yim Jae-Joon
Published: December 2022

Between 2010 and 2021, the annual prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) diseases in South Korea increased from 11.4 to 56.7 cases per 100 000 population. Prevalence in the population aged ≥65 years quadrupled from 41.9 to 163.1 cases per 100 000 population. Accordingly, the overall cost associated with NTM diseases increased.
Complete Genome Sequence Resource of Pectobacterium colocasium Strain F1-1 that Causes Soft Rot Disease of Taro
Authors: Huang Chien-Jui , Wu Ting-Li , Zheng Po-Xing , Ou Jheng-Yang , Ting Chao-Ling , Lin Yao-Cheng
Published: December 2022

Pectobacterium colocasium is a recently named, narrow-host-range phytopathogenic bacterium causing soft rot of taro (Colocasium esculenta). It is found on the Chinese mainland and the island of Taiwan. Taro is a domesticated crop with a long history of cultivation in Taiwan and the Pacific islands. However, not much was known about Pectobacterium spp. from taro, especially from the islands in the Pacific. Herein, we report a high-quality, completely annotated genome sequence of P. colosacium strain F1-1. The 4,816,345 bp genome, which was assembled with Illumina and Nanopore reads with 217× and 311× coverage, respectively, consists of one chromosome and no plasmid. This completely circularized genome will aid future studies in comparative genomics, evolution, and pathogenicity of P. colocasium. This genome resource will also be helpful for developing strategies to control P. colocasium in taro.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
“Knowledge is Power”: Parent Views on the Benefits of Early Diagnosis and Awareness of Sex Chromosome Multisomy Among Pediatric Professionals
Authors: Riggan Kirsten A. , Gross Brianna , Close Sharron , Steinberg Abigail , Allyse Megan A.
Published: December 2022

Objective:

Pediatric diagnoses of sex chromosome multisomies (SCMs) have increased as genetic testing has expanded. However, depending on SCM presentation, there may be significant delays between symptom recognition and diagnosis. We conducted a survey of parents of children diagnosed with SCMs to understand their experiences receiving an SCM diagnosis and their support needs.

Methods:

We conducted an inductive qualitative analysis of open-ended survey responses for iterative themes related to presenting symptoms, diagnostic odyssey, immediate and long-term support needs, and awareness of SCMs.

Results:

Of the 323 parents who completed the survey, 185 parents received a pediatric diagnosis (0–21 years) in a child. Many parents expressed feelings of relief when receiving the diagnosis, especially if it occurred after a lengthy diagnostic odyssey. Parents reported frustration that their child's nonmedical symptoms, including learning disabilities, speech delays, attention deficits, and behavioral issues, were not flagged as potential indications for SCMs and suggested that greater awareness of SCMs by pediatricians, educators, and other professionals involved in their child's care may lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.

Conclusion:

This is the largest qualitative study to date examining parent and caregiver experiences with a pediatric diagnosis of SCMs. Increased knowledge and awareness of nonmedical SCM symptoms are needed among medical, education, occupational, and psychology professionals for early testing referral and improved support of children with SCMs.
Environmental Exposures and Anti-Müllerian Hormone: A Mixture Analysis in the Nurses’ Health Study II
Authors: Li Huichu , Hart Jaime E. , Mahalingaiah Shruthi , Nethery Rachel C. , James Peter , Bertone-Johnson Elizabeth , Eliassen A. Heather , Laden Francine
Published: December 2022

Background:

Previous studies have linked environmental exposures with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a marker of ovarian reserve. However, associations with multiple environment factors has to our knowledge not been addressed.

Methods:

We included a total of 2,447 premenopausal women in the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII) who provided blood samples during 1996–1999. We selected environmental exposures linked previously with reproductive outcomes that had measurement data available in NHSII, including greenness, particulate matter, noise, outdoor light at night, ultraviolet radiation, and six hazardous air pollutants (1,3-butadiene, benzene, diesel particulate matter, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, and tetrachloroethylene). For these, we calculated cumulative averages from enrollment (1989) to blood draw and estimated associations with AMH in adjusted single-exposure models, principal component analysis (PCA), and hierarchical Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR).

Results:

Single-exposure models showed negative associations of AMH with benzene (percentage reduction in AMH per interquartile range [IQR] increase = 5.5%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0, 9.8) and formaldehyde (6.1%, 95% CI = 1.6, 10). PCA identified four major exposure patterns but only one with high exposure to air pollutants and light at night was associated with lower AMH. Hierarchical BKMR pointed to benzene, formaldehyde, and greenness and suggested an inverse joint association with AMH (percentage reduction comparing all exposures at the 75th percentile to median = 8.2%, 95% CI = 0.7, 15.1). Observed associations were mainly among women above age 40.

Conclusions:

We found exposure to benzene and formaldehyde to be consistently associated with lower AMH levels. The associations among older women are consistent with the hypothesis that environmental exposures accelerate reproductive aging.
Handgun Divestment and Risk of Suicide
Authors: Swanson Sonja A. , Studdert David M. , Zhang Yifan , Prince Lea , Miller Matthew
Published: December 2022

Background:

Firearm ownership is strongly related to suicide risk, yet little is known about how much risk declines when ownership ends (“divestment”).

Methods:

Using data from 523,182 handgun owners, we estimated the effect of divesting and remaining divested versus never divesting on the risk of suicide and firearm-specific suicide. We used pooled logistic regression with inverse probability weighting, adjusting for demographic and area-level measures.

Results:

The 5-year risk of suicide death was 25.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 15.1, 37.2) per 10,000 persons with divestment and 15.2 (95% CI = 13.2, 17.3) per 10,000 persons with no divestment, corresponding to a risk difference of 10.4 (95% CI = 0.7, 21.1) per 10,000 persons. The 5-year risk of firearm-specific suicide death was 6.3 (95% CI = 1.4, 11.9) per 10,000 persons with divestment and 12.9 (95% CI = 11.0, 14.6) per 10,000 persons with no divestment, corresponding to a risk difference of –6.6 (95% CI = –11.4, –0.1) per 10,000 persons. Comparing divestment to no divestment, risks were elevated for deaths due to other causes proposed as negative control outcomes; we incorporated these estimates into a series of bias derivations to better understand the magnitude of unmeasured confounding.

Conclusions:

Collectively, these estimates suggest that divestment reduces firearm suicide risk by 50% or more and likely reduces overall suicide risk as well, although future data collection is needed to fully understand the extent of biases such as unmeasured confounding.
Social Determinants of Health and Racial/Ethnic Disparities in COVID-19 Mortality at the County Level in the Commonwealth of Virginia
Authors: Pattath Priyadarshini
Published: December 2022

Background:

Mortality due to coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) among Black and Hispanic populations is disproportionately high compared to white populations. This study aimed to explore the association between COVID-19 mortality and social determinants of health (SDOH) among Black and Hispanic populations in Virginia.

Method:

County-level publicly available COVID-19 mortality data from Virginia, covariates, and SDOH indicators were used. An independent t-test and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were performed to assess the association between SDOH and COVID-19 death rates, with a focus on racial/ethnic disparities.

Results:

Counties in the lowest quartile had a mean death rate of 44.72 (SD = 13.8), while those in the highest quartile had a mean death rate of 239.02 (SD = 123.9) per 100, 000 people (P < .001). Counties with the highest death rates had significantly lower mean socioeconomic status. The regression analysis revealed that 32% of the variance in the COVID-19 mortality rate was associated with SDOH after controlling for the covariates (P < .01). Identifying as Hispanic ethnicity accounted for 8.5% of the variance, while median household income, being uninsured, and education accounted for 32.7%, 12.9%, and 7.1%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The findings provide evidence that disparities in SDOH experienced by Hispanic populations play a significant role in increased COVID-19 mortality, thus highlighting the social needs of low-income, low-education, and Hispanic populations to advance equity in health outcomes.
Ulinastatin ameliorates preeclampsia induced by N(gamma)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester in a rat model via inhibition of the systemic and placental inflammatory response
Authors: Yu Zhiqiang , Liu Yan , Zhang Yan , Cui Jian , Dong Yan , Zhang Li , Liu Peng , Hao Yingxin , Xu Yanning , Wang Jianbo
Published: December 2022

Background:

The pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE) is associated with inflammation and endothelial damage. Ulinastatin (UTI) mainly inhibits proteolytic activity and significantly reduces the release of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) from macrophages. It also ameliorates vascular endothelial damage in pathological conditions. Hence, we investigated the effects of UTI in a rat model of PE induced using N(gamma)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME).

Methods:

Although inducing PE in a rat model, 5000 U/kg of UTI were injected daily. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and protein levels in the urine were measured. Renal function, and serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, placental growth factor (PLGF), and von Willebrand factor (vWF) were evaluated. The number and weight of live fetuses as well as the weight of placentas were measured. Placentas were collected for western blot and pathological analysis.

Results:

UTI slightly ameliorated proteinuria and the increases in SBP, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine. Furthermore, UTI improved serum and placental protein expression levels of TNF-α, IL-6, vWF, and PLGF. Pathological analysis revealed that vascular density and blood flow perfusion was enhanced, vessel wall thickening and neutrophil infiltration were diminished, and the weight and number of live fetuses as well as the weight of the placentas were improved with UTI.

Conclusion:

Preventive use of UTI in the PE rat model induced by L-NAME partially alleviated hypertension, proteinuria, and impaired renal function; improved fetal growth restriction; diminished vascular endothelial injury; and ameliorated placental vasculogenesis abnormality and malperfusion by inhibiting the systemic and placental inflammatory response, suggesting that UTI is a potential drug for PE prevention or treatment.
The Role of Childhood Trauma on Prenatal Attachment
Authors: Can Caglayan Ilkin Seda , Uzun Cicek Ayla , Yilmaz Yavuz , Sahin Ayse Ecem
Published: December 2022

Although the quality of prenatal attachment is a strong predictor of the quality of postnatal mother-infant attachment and mother-child interaction, little is known about the specific impacts of maternal exposure to childhood traumas, and it deserves more attention. This study was conducted to determine whether there is a relationship between childhood traumas and pren1atal attachment levels. Prenatal attachment and childhood trauma were evaluated in 104 pregnant women using the Prenatal Attachment Scale and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Our results showed that all kinds of childhood traumatic experiences were associated with lower prenatal attachment scores. Also, more severe childhood traumas were strongly associated with weaker prenatal attachment. This study contributes to the very limited literature on the prenatal attachment of expectant mothers with childhood traumas by emphasizing the importance of pregnant women's exposure to childhood traumas as a risk factor for low prenatal attachment.
Demystifying BRAF Mutation Status in Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Margonis Georgios A. , Boerner Thomas , Bachet Jean-Baptiste , Buettner Stefan , Moretto Roberto , Andreatos Nikolaos , Sartore-Bianchi Andrea , Wang Jane , Kamphues Carsten , Gagniere Johan , Lonardi Sara , Løes Inger M. , Wagner Doris , Spallanzani Andrea , Sasaki Kazunari , Burkhart Richard , Pietrantonio Filippo , Pikoulis Emmanouil , Pawlik Timothy M. , Truant Stéphanie , Orlandi Armando , Pikouli Anastasia , Pella Nicoletta , Beyer Katharina , Poultsides George , Seeliger Hendrik , Aucejo Federico N. , Kornprat Peter , Kaczirek Klaus , Lønning Per E. , Kreis Martin E. , Wolfgang Christopher L. , Weiss Matthew J. , Cremolini Chiara , Benoist Stéphane , D’Angelica Michael
Published: December 2022

Objective:

To investigate the clinical implications of BRAF-mutated (mutBRAF) colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs).

Background:

The clinical implications of mutBRAF status in CRLMs are largely unknown.

Methods:

Patients undergoing resection for mutBRAF CRLM were identified from prospectively maintained registries of the collaborating institutions. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared among patients with V600E versus non-V600E mutations, KRAS/BRAF comutation versus mutBRAF alone, microsatellite stability status (Microsatellite Stable (MSS) vs instable (MSI-high)), upfront resectable versus converted tumors, extrahepatic versus liver-limited disease, and intrahepatic recurrence treated with repeat hepatectomy versus nonoperative management.

Results:

A total of 240 patients harboring BRAF-mutated tumors were included. BRAF V600E mutation was associated with shorter OS (30.6 vs 144 mo, P=0.004), but not RFS compared with non-V600E mutations. KRAS/BRAF comutation did not affect outcomes. MSS tumors were associated with shorter RFS (9.1 vs 26 mo, P<0.001) but not OS (33.5 vs 41 mo, P=0.3) compared with MSI-high tumors, whereas patients with resected converted disease had slightly worse RFS (8 vs 11 mo, P=0.01) and similar OS (30 vs 40 mo, P=0.4) compared with those with upfront resectable disease. Patients with extrahepatic disease had worse OS compared with those with liver-limited disease (8.8 vs 40 mo, P<0.001). Repeat hepatectomy after intrahepatic recurrence was associated with improved OS compared with nonoperative management (41 vs 18.7 mo, P=0.004). All results continued to hold true in the multivariable OS analysis.

Conclusions:

Although surgery may be futile in patients with BRAF-mutated CRLM and concurrent extrahepatic disease, resection of converted disease resulted in encouraging survival in the absence of extrahepatic spread. Importantly, second hepatectomy in select patients with recurrence was associated with improved outcomes. Finally, MSI-high status identifies a better prognostic group, with regard to RFS while patients with non-V600E mutations have excellent prognosis.
Effect of COVID-19 during pregnancy: Studying the maternal and neonatal outcomes and assessing the placental changes related to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Madan Surabhi , Ramar Dharshni , Patel Devang , Chitaliya Amit , Shah Nitesh , Shah Bhagyesh , Thakkar Vipul , Shah Hardik , Chovatiya Rashmi , Dabhi Pradip , Patel Minesh , Patel Amit , Bapat Nirav , Bhatt Parloop , Naik Aarya , Rana Manish , Nayak Himanshu , Sharma Karun Dev , Parikh Prashant , Mehta Bhavna , Shah Bhavini
Published: December 2022

Background

Pregnant females affected with COVID-19 are reported to have poorer disease outcomes as compared to non-pregnant females of a similar age group. COVID-19 may lead to adverse changes in the placenta, which needs to be studied.

Methods

This is a case series of 63 pregnant women hospitalized with COVID-19 from May 2020 to February 2021.The primary outcomes were maternal death or complications.

Results

63 women were studied. 83.3% of women were in the age group of 26 to 35 years. 33% women had associated comorbidities. 68.3% of women tested positive in their third trimester, 15.9% and 11% tested positive in their second and first trimesters respectively. 73% women had mild disease and 27% women required oxygen support. 3/63 women died. One woman in the second and two women in the third trimester died respectively. Histopathological examination in 13 placentae (of 19 placentae examined) were suggestive of maternal and fetal malperfusion.

Conclusion

Pregnant COVID-19 women may develop disease-related as well as obstetric complications.
Regulation of stress-induced sleep fragmentation by preoptic glutamatergic neurons
Authors: Smith Jennifer , Honig-Frand Adam , Antila Hanna , Beier Kevin , Weber Franz , Chung Shinjae
Published: December 2022

Sleep disturbances are detrimental for our behavioral and emotional well-being. Stressful events disrupt sleep, in particular by inducing brief awakenings (microarousals, MAs) resulting in sleep fragmentation. The preoptic area of the hypothalamus (POA) is crucial for sleep control. However, how POA neurons contribute to the regulation of MAs and thereby impact sleep quality is unknown. Using fiber photometry recordings in mice, we examined the activity changes of genetically defined POA subpopulations during sleep. We found that POA glutamatergic neurons are rhythmically activated in synchrony with an infraslow rhythm in the spindle band of the electroencephalogram during non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREMs) and are transiently activated during MAs. Optogenetic stimulation of these neurons strongly promotes MAs. Exposure to acute social defeat stress significantly increased the number of transients in the calcium activity of POA glutamatergic neurons during NREMs. Optogenetic inhibition during spontaneous sleep and after stress reduced MAs during NREMs and consequently consolidated sleep. Monosynaptically-restricted rabies tracing revealed that POA glutamatergic neurons are innervated by brain regions regulating stress and sleep. Our findings uncover a novel circuit mechanism by which POA excitatory neurons regulate sleep quality after stress.
Extended search pigeon-inspired optimized MPPT controller for solar quadcopter
Authors: Zheng Zhiqiang , Duan Haibin , Deng Yimin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a novel maximum power point track (MPPT) controller for a type of solar quad-copter to solve the problem of tracking the maximum power point (MPP) when it works in nonuniform environment conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The influence of uniform and nonuniform illumination and different temperatures results in the output characteristics of the solar array arising multiple local MPPs. To track the global MPP of the solar array on the designed solar quadcopter, a type of MPPT controller based on an improved pigeon-inspired optimization (PIO) algorithm is proposed.

Findings

A novel type of MPPT controller based on extended search PIO (ESPIO) algorithm, called ESPIO–MPPT controller, is introduced emphatically, which is used to extend the solar quadcopter’s flight time. The simulation experiments show that the ESPIO–MPPT controller can find the global MPP (GMPP) with smaller amplitudes of oscillation and less time cost.

Practical implications

The proposed solar quadcopter with ESPIO–MPPT controller has satisfactory flight performance which can greatly broaden its mission scope.

Originality/value

A type of efficient MPPT algorithm based on ESPIO is proposed for GMPP tracking of solar quadcopters in nonuniform environment conditions.
CEO masculinity and CSR disclosure: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Nasih Mohammad , Anridho Nadia , Rahayu Nadia Klarita , Nowland John
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The authors analyzed the relationship between chief executive officer (CEO) facial masculinity and the level of corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted research for 2011–2019, covering companies listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange. This study used an ordinary least squares regression, the coarsened exact matching (CEM) and propensity score matching (PSM) procedure in testing the hypothesis.

Findings

Based on the results of analysis, it is known that CEO facial masculinity is negatively related to corporate CSR disclosure levels. However, this negative relationship can be mitigated through governance mechanisms: the audit committee.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides implications in the field of research, especially regarding the biological attributes of CEOs in relation to CSR.

Originality/value

As many previous studies focused on the managerial aspect of the CEO, this study focused on the biological aspect of CEO. To the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to attempt to investigate this issue in an emerging market.
Financial technology to address the liability of poorness? A typology of FinTech organisations
Authors: Ranabahu Nadeera
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper explores how financial technology (FinTech) organisations address poverty-related challenges when providing digital financial services. Employing the conceptual foundation of the liability of poorness (i.e. literacy gaps, a scarcity mindset, intense non-business pressures and a lack of financial slack), this paper explores the innovative strategies that FinTechs use to address these liabilities and promote entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses detailed case data collected from three FinTech organisations operating in one South Asian country.

Findings

FinTech organisations' innovative strategies reflect a combination of “high touch” (human) vs “low touch” (digital) solutions. All the organisations simplified internal systems or procedures to accommodate customers. The degree to which the three organisations adopted each of the identified strategies shows an emerging typology of FinTechs; that is, innovators with high digital interactions, a mix of digital-human interactions and high human interactions.

Research limitations/implications

The paper develops a typology which categorises FinTech innovative strategies. The typology highlights strategies pro-poor FinTechs use and explains the types of entrepreneurial support innovative organisations provide for their customers. Both the typology and the innovative strategies contribute to enhanced financial inclusion and entrepreneurial promotion amongst the poor.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper comes from its focus on FinTechs' innovative pro-poor strategies. Existing studies typically address the technology-side of innovations. In contrast, this paper combines innovative strategies with the liability of poorness to identify issues associated with financial inclusion.
Engaging the sales force in digital solution selling: how sales control systems resolve agency problems to create and capture superior value
Authors: Tienken Christoph , Classen Moritz , Friedli Thomas
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Digital solutions (DS) that build on recurring revenue models (RRMs) offer new opportunities to continuously create and capture superior value. However, many firms fail to engage their sales force in digital solution selling (DS selling), leading to agency problems that receive little attention in literature. This study aims to examine the drivers of agency problems that surface in the transition toward DS selling and the sales control systems that resolve these problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a qualitative, inductive study. Data were collected from interviews with 72 marketing and sales managers representing 53 industrial firms transitioning toward DS selling.

Findings

DS selling is subject to adverse selection and moral hazard caused by motivation-related, opportunity-related and ability-related drivers. Input, capability, activity and outcome controls – detailed in this study – can resolve these agency problems.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study’s methodology and scope suggest several directions for future research. Methodology-wise, the authors mainly relied on cross-sectional interview data from informants in Central and Northern Europe. Scope-wise, more research is needed on the capabilities, processes and steering instruments supporting DS sales. Finally, only now do the authors begin to understand which compensation plans motivate DS selling.

Practical implications

The controls identified in this study help managers to steer their sales force in DS sales.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to investigate DS sales control systems. Thereby, the authors enhance prior understandings of solution selling, agency problems and sales control systems.
The effect of transactive memory systems on supply chain network collaboration
Authors: Scheibe Kevin P. , Mukandwal Prabhjot S. , Grawe Scott J.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This research is aimed at understanding how inter-organizational team members' ability to encode, interpret, retain and recall knowledge can lead to effective supply chain collaboration, resulting in improved firm performance. Using the lens of transactive memory systems (TMS), this research demonstrates the value of knowing who knows what (specialization), is it trustworthy (credibility) and how to retrieve it (coordination) on supply chain firm performance through network collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a multi-method approach that includes quantitative survey methodology and a qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews. In total, 207 survey responses and six semi-structured interviews provided valuable insights into the use of TMS in supply chain relationships.

Findings

This study shows that TMS can enable firms to exploit potential benefits of collaboration on network optimization, thus improving the overall efficiency and process innovations.

Practical implications

To maintain the efficient use of a firm's assets while suppliers get added or removed from the network, this study’s findings suggest that managers should be more knowledgeable of supply chain partners carrying codified knowledge, which can contribute to superior firm performance. Recognizing that when two or more firms collaborate, there are multiple supply chains affected by each decision, it is important that managers carefully assign the specific role of each firm within the supply chain.

Originality/value

This research takes a new approach to network optimization by specifically considering how firms work together to share information about their changing networks to allow firms throughout the supply chain to gain greater levels of asset efficiency and process improvement.
Balancing privacy and communication in activity-based workspaces: a longitudinal study
Authors: Rücker Marc , Eismann Tobias T. , Meinel Martin , Söllner Antonia , Voigt Kai-Ingo
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate whether activity-based workspaces (ABWs) are able to solve the privacy-communication trade-off known from fixed-desk offices. In fixed-desk offices, employees work in private or open-plan offices (or in combi-offices) with fixed workstations, which support either privacy or communication, respectively. However, both dimensions are essential to effective employee performance, which creates the dilemma known as the privacy-communication trade-off. In activity-based workspaces, flexible workstations and the availability of different spaces may solve this dilemma, but clear empirical evidence on the matter is unavailable.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this knowledge gap, the authors surveyed knowledge workers (N = 363) at a medium-sized German company at three time points (T1–T3) over a one-year period during the company’s move from a fixed-desk combi-office (a combination of private and open-plan offices with fixed workplaces) to an ABW. Using a quantitative survey, the authors evaluated the employees’ perceived privacy and perceived communication in the old (T1) and the new work environments (T2 and T3).

Findings

The longitudinal study revealed a significant increase in employees’ perceived privacy and perceived communication in the ABW. These increases remained stable in the long term, which implies that ABWs have a lasting positive impact on employees.

Originality/value

As the privacy and communication dimensions were previously considered mutually exclusive in a single workplace, the results confirm that ABWs can balance privacy and communication, providing optimal conditions for enhanced employee performance.
Barriers and solutions in adopting public–private partnerships in road transportation infrastructure projects for developing countries: results of a Delphi survey in Iran
Authors: Chan Daniel W. M. , Abdul Hadi Sadeq Dher , Mohammed Fadhil Aqeel , Cristofaro Matteo , Sarvari Hadi
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Sustainable economic growth in both developed and developing countries requires the restructuring and expansion of road transportation infrastructures (RTIs). However, RTIs are always subject to high costs and delays, especially in developing countries with fewer resources than developed ones. Cost overruns and inaccurate forecasts usually lead to project failures. In this regard, some governments in developing countries have adopted public–private partnerships (PPPs) to deliver RTI projects with very positive outcomes. However, academic research has not yet studied the most recurring barriers and associated solutions to adopting PPPs in RTIs particularly for developing countries. This paper aims to fill up this knowledge gap in the existing literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A Delphi survey method involving 103 experts in RTIs based in Iran was implemented. Results indicated that the most perceived barriers to applying PPPs in RTIs in developing countries are linked to political, legal and economic factors. Ten other experts also participated in semistructured interviews, which were thematically analyzed to provide practical effective solutions for overcoming those identified barriers.

Findings

The findings indicated that all the presented barriers achieved above-average scores and could be considered severe obstacles of applying PPPs in RTIs for developing countries. In terms of barriers and solutions reported, these seem to converge on three profound elements: political stability, legal framework and conjoint management.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first-ever research study regarding the barriers to adopting PPPs in delivering RTI projects for developing countries. Practical recommendations for overcoming these perceived barriers and achieving better implementation of PPPs in RTIs for developing countries were advocated. This work has contributed to the extant PPP theory as the management of coproduction in delivering RTI projects.
Perceptions towards integrated care through the narrative of practicing social workers and psychologists in PHC: a cross-case analysis
Authors: Ryapolova Nadezhda , Galea Jerome T. , Greene Karah Y.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

In a collective effort to build a patient-centered and coordinated health care system, social workers and psychologists are being progressively introduced to primary health care (PHC) settings worldwide. The present study aims to explore the current status of integration through the narrative of social workers and psychologists in PHC settings in Kazakhstan.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper purposive snowball sampling was utilized to recruit social workers and psychologists who work, or used to work, in PHC settings since the onset of integration in Nur-Sultan for participation in an in-depth interview. A semistructured interview guide was based on normalization process theory (NPT). Interviews were conducted via video conference, in Russian language, lasted no more than 50 min, and transcribed verbatim. Cross-case analysis of eight cases was performed using NPT constructs.

Findings

Cross-case analysis included findings from the interviews from five social workers and three psychologists. Four major constructs of implementation process from NPT were reflected in the findings: coherence (believes integration improves patient care, functions within integrated care), cognitive participation (individual changes to role performance, mechanisms of work), collective action (status of support from stakeholders, cooperation within a multidisciplinary team) and reflective monitoring (existing mechanisms for monitoring the integration).

Research limitations/implications

Despite organizational integration, there is a lack of successful clinical integration of social workers and psychologists in PHC settings of Kazakhstan, which is manifested by a lack of understanding of responsibilities and functions of these mental health care specialists. Consensus was reached by all participants that both social workers and psychologists are valuable assets in a multidisciplinary team.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to the current knowledge of integrated PHC service delivery by addressing the status of integrated care in Kazakhstan from interviews with key stakeholders in social work and mental health. Moving forward, improvements are needed to (1) establish the monitoring mechanism to evaluate the status of integration, (2) enhance effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams in PHC settings and (3) increase awareness among medical workers and community members on mental health issues and the available support offered by social workers and psychologists to promote quality of life in a holistic, integrated manner.
The impact of governance on economic growth: spatial econometric approach
Authors: Mahran Hisham Abdeltawab
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper investigates the impact of governance on economic growth, considering the spatial dependence between countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs spatial regression models to estimate the impact of governance on economic growth in a sample of 116 countries worldwide in 2017.

Findings

The findings imply that the influence of governance on economic growth is statistically significant. Moreover, if all other economic control variables are constant, 1% increase in governance raises the economic growth on average by 1% at 10%, 5% and 1% significance levels, respectively. Furthermore, each country's rise in economic growth favorably and substantially influences the economic growth of its bordering nations. The unobserved characteristics or similar unobserved environments in adjacent countries also affect its economic growth.

Originality/value

This study adds to the discussion and investigation of the influence of governance on economic growth by considering the spatial dependence between countries, which is lacking in the literature.
A logical error in Gassmann poroelasticity
Authors: Thomsen Leon
Published: December 2022

The well‐known ‘Biot–Gassmann’ formula for the undrained compressibility of porous rock is in error. The error was introduced by Gassmann (implicitly revising earlier work by Biot) and results in an expression which is simpler than Biot's corresponding expression, containing only one material parameter (KS) in place of Biot's two (H and R). The error occurred when Gassmann applied a hydraulically open theorem to a hydraulically closed system, thus violating the assumptions of the undrained compressibility. Similar errors have marred the many subsequent derivations of Gassmann's result. Biot's (prior) correct formulation was subsequently rederived exactly (in different notation) by Brown and Korringa, and separately by Rice and Cleary. The inconsistency between Gassmann and these three analyses is caused by Gassmann's logical error, rather than by the issue of solid micro‐homogeneity. The additional parameter may be experimentally determined via the ‘Skempton B‐coefficient’ (the ratio of fluid pressure to external pressure in an undrained quasi‐static compression test). This correction resolves a long‐established inconsistency between Gassmann's result and effective‐medium theory. A new generation of experimentation is required to determine the systematics of the magnitude of the correction to the Gassmann result.
Temporal analysis of GBIF data reveals the restructuring of communities following climate change
Authors: Lajeunesse Armelle , Fourcade Yoan
Published: December 2022

Multiple studies revealed an effect of climate change on biodiversity by investigating long‐term changes in species distributions and community composition. However, many taxa do not benefit from systematic long‐term monitoring programmes, leaving gaps in our current knowledge of climate‐induced community turnover.

We used data extracted from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to characterize community reorganization under climate change for nine animal taxonomic groups (ants, bats, bees, birds, butterflies, earthworms, frogs, rodents and salamanders), which, for most of them, had never been studied before in this regard. Using a presence‐only community temperature index (CTI), reflecting the relative proportion of warm‐ and cold‐adapted species, we tested whether and how species' assemblages were affected by climate change over the last 30 years.

Across Europe and North America, we observed an average increase in CTI, consistent with a gradual species turnover driven by climate change.

At the local scale, we could observe that the composition of most species assemblages changed according to temperature variations. However, this change in composition always occurred with a lag compared to climate change, suggesting that communities are experiencing a climatic debt. Results suggest that anthropization may play a role in the decoupling between the change in CTI and the change in local temperature.

The results of our study highlight an overall thermophilization of assemblages as a response of temperature warming. We demonstrated that this response may exist for a large range of understudied terrestrial animals, and we introduced a framework that can be used in a broader context, opening new opportunities for global change research.