bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BUB1 inhibition sensitizes lung cancer cell lines to radiotherapy and chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Thoidingjam Shivani , Sriramulu Sushmitha , Hassan Oudai , Brown Stephen L. , Siddiqui Farzan , Movsas Benjamin , Gadgeel Shirish , Nyati Shyam
Published: April 2024

Background

Lung cancer is a major public health concern, with high incidence and mortality. Despite advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, microtubule stabilizers (paclitaxel, docetaxel), DNA intercalating platinum drugs (cisplatin) and radiation therapy continue to play a critical role in the management of locally advanced and metastatic lung cancer. Novel molecular targets would provide opportunities for improving the efficacies of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Hypothesis

We hypothesize that BUB1 (Ser/Thr kinase) is over-expressed in lung cancers and that its inhibition will sensitize lung cancers to chemoradiation.

Methods

BUB1 inhibitor (BAY1816032) was combined with platinum (cisplatin), microtubule poison (paclitaxel), a PARP inhibitor (olaparib) and radiation in cell proliferation and radiation sensitization assays. Biochemical and molecular assays were used to evaluate their impact on DNA damage signaling and cell death mechanisms.

Results

BUB1 expression assessed by immunostaining of lung tumor microarrays (TMAs) confirmed higher BUB1 expression in NSCLC and SCLC compared to that of normal tissues. BUB1 overexpression in lung cancer tissues correlated directly with expression of TP53 mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Elevated BUB1 levels correlated with poorer overall survival in NSCLC and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients. A BUB1 inhibitor (BAY1816032) synergistically sensitized lung cancer cell lines to paclitaxel and olaparib. Additionally, BAY1816032 enhanced cell killing by radiation in both NSCLC and SCLC. Molecular changes following BUB1 inhibition suggest a shift towards pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative states, indicated by altered expression of BAX, BCL2, PCNA, and Caspases 9 and 3.

Conclusion

A direct correlation between BUB1 protein expression and overall survival was shown. BUB1 inhibition sensitized both NSCLC and SCLC to various chemotherapies (cisplatin, paclitaxel) and targeted therapy (PARPi). Furthermore, we present the novel finding that BUB1 inhibition sensitized both NSCLC and SCLC to radiotherapy and chemoradiation. Our results demonstrate BUB1 inhibition as a promising strategy to sensitize lung cancers to radiation and chemoradiation therapies.
Complex Regulation of Protocadherin Epigenetics on Aging-Related Brain Health
Authors: Schmithorst Vanessa , Bais Abha , Badaly Daryaneh , Williams Kylia , Gabriel George , Ceschin Rafael , Wallace Julia , Lee Vince , Lopez Oscar , Cohen Annie , Martin Lisa J. , Lo Cecilia , Panigrahy Ashok
Published: April 2024

Life expectancy continues to increase in the high-income world due to advances in medical care; however, quality of life declines with increasing age due to normal aging processes. Current research suggests that various aspects of aging are genetically modulated and thus may be slowed via genetic modification. Here, we show evidence for epigenetic modulation of the aging process in the brain from over 1800 individuals as part of the Framingham Heart Study. We investigated the methylation of genes in the protocadherin (PCDH) clusters, including the alpha (PCHDA), beta (PCDHB), and gamma (PCDHG) clusters. ReducedPCDHG, elevatedPCDHA, and elevatedPCDHBmethylation levels were associated with substantial reductions in the rate of decline of regional white matter volume as well as certain cognitive skills, independent of overall accelerated or retarded aging as estimated by a DNA clock. These results are likely due to the different effects of the expression of genes in the alpha, beta, and gamma PCHD clusters and suggest that experience-based aging processes related to a decline in regional brain volume and select cognitive skills may be slowed via targeted epigenetic modifications.
Evidence of compensatory neural hyperactivity in a subgroup of chemotherapy-treated breast cancer survivors and its association with brain aging
Authors: Mulholland Michele M. , Stuifbergen Alexa , De La Torre Schutz Alexa , Franco Rocha Oscar Y. , Blayney Douglas W. , Kesler Shelli R.
Published: April 2024

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) remains poorly understood in terms of the mechanisms of cognitive decline. Neural hyperactivity has been reported on average in cancer survivors, but it is unclear which patients demonstrate this neurophenotype, limiting precision medicine in this population. We evaluated a retrospective sample of 80 breast cancer survivors and 80 non-cancer controls, age 35-73, for which we had previously identified and validated three data-driven, biological subgroups (biotypes) of CRCI. We measured neural activity using the z-normalized percent amplitude of fluctuation from resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We tested established, quantitative criteria to determine if hyperactivity can accurately be considered compensatory. We also calculated brain age gap by applying a previously validated algorithm to anatomic MRI. We found that neural activity differed across the three CRCI biotypes and controls (F = 13.5, p < 0.001), with Biotype 2 demonstrating significant hyperactivity compared to the other groups (p < 0.004, corrected), primarily in prefrontal regions. Alternatively, Biotypes 1 and 3 demonstrated significant hypoactivity (p < 0.02, corrected). Hyperactivity in Biotype 2 met several of the criteria to be considered compensatory. However, we also found a positive relationship between neural activity and brain age gap in these patients (r = 0.45, p = 0.042). Our results indicated that neural hyperactivity is specific to a subgroup of breast cancer survivors and, while it seems to support preserved cognitive function, it could also increase the risk of accelerated brain aging. These findings could inform future neuromodulatory interventions with respect to the risks and benefits of up or downregulation of neural activity.
Dual Bethe-Salpeter equation for the multiorbital lattice susceptibility within dynamical mean-field theory
Authors: van Loon Erik G. C. P. , Strand Hugo U. R.
Published: April 2024

Dynamical mean-field theory describes the impact of strong local correlation effects in many-electron systems. While the single-particle spectral function is directly obtained within the formalism, two-particle susceptibilities can also be obtained by solving the Bethe-Salpeter equation. The solution requires handling infinite matrices in Matsubara frequency space. This is commonly treated using a finite frequency cutoff, resulting in slow linear convergence. A decomposition of the two-particle response in local and nonlocal contributions enables a reformulation of the Bethe-Salpeter equation inspired by the dual boson formalism. The reformulation has a drastically improved cubic convergence with respect to the frequency cutoff, considerably facilitating the calculation of susceptibilities in multi-orbital systems. This improved convergence arises from the fact that local contributions can be measured in the impurity solver. The dual Bethe-Salpeter equation uses the fully reducible vertex which is free from vertex divergences. We benchmark the approach on several systems including the spin susceptibility of strontium ruthenate Sr2RuO4, a strongly correlated Hund's metal with three active orbitals.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Asymptotic behavior of angular integrals in the massless limit
Authors: Wunder Fabian
Published: April 2024

We investigate the small-mass asymptotics of a class of massive d-dimensional angular integrals. These integrals arise in a wide range of perturbative quantum field theory calculations. We derive expressions characterizing their behavior in the vicinity of the massless limit for all cases with up to two denominators. The results established in this work are applicable to phase-space calculations where an integration over virtuality including the massless limit is required.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comparing models for a unitary black hole
S
matrix
Authors: Giddings Steven B.
Published: April 2024

This paper compares features, challenges, and puzzles of different models for a unitary black hole S-matrix, focusing on both recent nonisometric models, as well as “nonviolent unitarization,” which is based on new quantum interactions of a black hole. As a foundation for comparison, the description of real-time Hawking evolution is first overviewed, including leading effects of gravitational dressing and backreaction. Connection is then made to qubit models for evolution, and some technology is outlined to facilitate their description. Important features of both nonisometric models and nonviolent unitarization are investigated in qubit models, which illustrate essential differences between the respective approaches. The nonisometric models present puzzles for understanding evolution of internal outgoing excitations, which can be excited by interactions such as particle decay. Qubit models for nonviolent unitarization are further developed, and nicely illustrate aspects of that approach. Some remaining questions in generalizing to more complete models for evolution are discussed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Invisible neutrino decay at long-baseline neutrino oscillation experiments
Authors: Ternes Christoph A. , Pagliaroli Giulia
Published: April 2024

We perform an updated analysis of long-baseline accelerator data in the framework of neutrino oscillations in presence of invisible neutrino decay. We analyze data from T2K, NOvA and MINOS/MINOS+ and show that the combined analysis of all experiments improves the previous bound from long-baseline data by approximately one order of magnitude.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Breakdown of Temporal Coherence in Photon Condensates
Authors: Tang Yijun , Dhar Himadri S. , Oulton Rupert F. , Nyman Robert A. , Mintert Florian
Published: April 2024

The temporal coherence of an ideal Bose gas increases as the system approaches the Bose-Einstein condensation threshold from below, with coherence time diverging at the critical point. However, counterexamples have been observed for condensates of photons formed in an externally pumped, dye-filled microcavity, wherein the coherence time decreases rapidly for increasing particle number above threshold. This Letter establishes intermode correlations as the central explanation for the experimentally observed dramatic decrease in the coherence time beyond critical pump power.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Field control of symmetry-broken and quantum disordered phases in frustrated moiré bilayers with population imbalance
Authors: Del Re Lorenzo , Classen Laura
Published: April 2024

We determine the ground states and excitation spectra of the paradigmatic four-flavor Heisenberg model with nearest- and next-nearest-neighbor exchange couplings on the triangular lattice in a field controlling the population imbalance of flavor pairs. Such a system arises in the strongly correlated limit of moiré bilayers of transition metal dichalcogenides in an electric displacement field or in-plane magnetic field, and can be simulated via ultracold alkaline-earth atoms. We argue that the field tunes between effective SU(4) and SU(2) symmetries in the balanced and fully polarized limits and employ a combination of mean-field calculations, flavor-wave theory, and exact diagonalization to analyze the intermediate, imbalanced regime. We find different symmetry-broken phases with simultaneous spin and excitonic order depending on the field and next-nearest-neighbor coupling. Furthermore, we demonstrate that there is a strongly fluctuating regime without long-range order that connects candidate spin liquids of the SU(2) and SU(4) limit. The strong fluctuations are facilitated by an extensive classical degeneracy of the model, and we argue that they are also responsible for a strong polarizability at 1/3 polarization that survives from the mean-field level to the exact spectrum.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Impact Makers (A): The Newman's Own of Management Consulting
Authors: Loutskina Elena , Yemen Gerry , Mead Jenny
Published: April 2024

This case requires students to evaluate alternative dual-share-class corporate structures that allow companies and entrepreneurs to pursue profit with purpose. The case explores Impact Makers, an IT consulting company based in Richmond, Virginia. While original founders of the firm hold all voting rights, the cash flow rights belong to two nonprofits setting the stage for a Newman's Own model of management consulting. The case discusses whether and how the alternative corporate structure aids the firm's overall strategy to attract top-quality employees, pay them competitive salaries, and provide superior service to its clients while donating 100% of its lifetime value to charitable causes, largely through partnerships with various nonprofit organizations. More importantly, the case asks students to evaluate how such a dual-share-class and dual-purpose company can raise capital to fund continued growth.

The case opens with CEO Michael Pirron reminding himself of all the questions he had run through to execute a strategy to further grow Impact Makers' consulting business both through expanding a menu of services and through conquering new geographical markets. To do either, or both, the company needed a cash infusion. Internal cash was limited, as up to 40% of it flowed to charitable partners, demonstrating Impact Makers' commitment to its mission. Raising debt for a company without fixed assets was challenging and time consuming. Complicating it all was that being structured as a nonstock corporation rendered equity raising difficult. Could Impact Makers raise money to grow and stay true to community values at the same time?
SDGs in master’s theses: a study of a Finnish University of Applied Sciences
Authors: Niemela Tarja
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Higher educational institutions, such as universities of applied sciences, have a significant role in promoting progress towards a sustainable future as defined by the United Nations (UN) sustainable development goals (SDGs). This paper aims to identify how the UN SDGs are featured in master’s theses set in work–life contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a descriptive review and content analysis, this study identified the number of SDGs appearing in 31 master’s theses. Sustainable development (SD) and corporate social responsibility were reflected using the approaches and models in the literature. Finland’s eight objectives for committing to SD were used to examine the commitments made by the business school of the university of applied sciences to achieve Agenda 2030.

Findings

Emphasising the value of higher education for SD, this study found that SDGs three, eight and 12 appeared most frequently in the theses. Sustainable and responsible dimensions reflected several issues concerning both the worlds of business and industry among the firms and organisations investigated by the master’s degree students in the business school at the Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences.

Practical implications

This research holds practical and pedagogical value, serving to encourage master’s and PhD students to further explore research on SDGs and to shape public policy.

Originality/value

Sustainability was looked at in a new way as investigated by the theses. Ways to integrate the SDGs into management degree programmes and conduct research in the fields of business administration, tourism and hospitality management were identified.
How does a firm’s digital business strategy affect its innovation performance? An investigation based on knowledge-based dynamic capability
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

While previous research has demonstrated the positive effects of digital business strategies on operational efficiency, financial performance and value creation, little is known about how such strategies influence innovation performance. To address the gap, this paper aims to investigate the impact of a firm’s digital business strategy on its innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the dynamic capability view, this study examines the mechanism through which a digital business strategy affects innovation performance. Data were collected from 215 firms in China and analyzed using multiple regression and structural equation modeling.

Findings

The empirical analysis reveals that a firm’s digital business strategy has positive impacts on both product and process innovation performance. These impacts are partially mediated by knowledge-based dynamic capability. Additionally, a firm’s digital business strategy interacts positively with its entrepreneurial orientation in facilitating knowledge-based dynamic capability. Moreover, market turbulence enhances the strength of this interaction effect. Therefore, entrepreneurial-oriented firms operating in turbulent markets can benefit more from digital business strategies to enhance their knowledge-based dynamic capabilities and consequently improve their innovation performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of how a firm’s digital business strategy interacts with entrepreneurial orientation in turbulent markets to shape knowledge-based dynamic capability, which in turn enhances the firm’s innovation performance.
Glocalizing sustainability: how accounting begins for sustainable development goals in city administration
Authors: Luhtala Mika , Welinder Olga , Vikstedt Elina
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the adoption of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as the new performance perspective in cities. It also aims to understand how accounting for SDGs begins in city administrations by following Power’s (2015) fourfold development schema composed of policy object formation, object elaboration, activity orchestration and practice stabilization.

Design/methodology/approach

Focusing on a network of cities coordinated by the Finnish local government association, we analyzed the six largest cities in Finland employing a holistic multiple case study strategy. Our data consisted of Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs), city strategies, budget plans, financial statements, as well as results of participant observations and semi-structured interviews with key individuals involved in accounting for SDGs.

Findings

We unveiled the SDG framework as an interpretive scheme through which cities glocalized sustainable development as a novel, simultaneously global and local, performance object. Integration of the new accounts in city management is necessary for these accounts to take life in steering the actions. By creating meaningful alignment and the ability to impact managerial practices, SDGs and VLRs have the potential to influence local actions. Our results indicate further institutionalization progress of sustainability as a performance object through SDG-focused work.

Originality/value

While prior research has focused mainly on general factors influencing the integration of the sustainability agenda, this study provides a novel perspective by capturing the process and demonstrating empirically how new accounts on SDGs are introduced and deployed in the strategic planning and management of local governments.
Snacking pattern among IT professionals from Pune, India
Authors: Devi Prabhashwori , Gokhale Devaki , Phalle Anuja
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Pune is a prominent information technology (IT) hub in India, where snacking has become a customary practice among IT professionals. This study aims to determine the pattern and factors associated with snacking among IT professionals from various multinational corporations (MNCs) in Pune, Maharashtra, India.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study considered 404 IT professionals aged 21 to 50 years. A convenient sampling method was adopted to administer a validated questionnaire. Information on snacking patterns and factors associated with snacking were recorded. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data with p = 0.05. The participation was voluntary, and confidentiality was ensured.

Findings

The mean age of the participants was 31 ± 7.9 years. Almost half (51.5%) of the participants engaged in daily snacking. The sociodemographic factors such as younger age (0.000), marital status (p = 0.001), salary package (p = 0.006), living situation (p = 0.05), designation (p = 0.042) and work experience (p = 0.001) significantly related with the unhealthy snacking pattern scores. Daily snacking was significantly associated with hunger (p = 0.001), stress (p = 0.001), weight (p = 0.000), peer influence (p = 0.041) and taste (p = 0.001). Hunger, stress, taste, peer influence, boredom and weight were significantly (p = 0.05) associated with unhealthy snacking patterns.

Research limitations/implications

The mean age of the participants was 31 ± 7.9 years. Almost half (51.5%) of the participants engaged in daily snacking. The sociodemographic factors such as younger age (0.000), marital status (p = 0.001), salary package (p = 0.006), living situation (p = 0.05), designation (p = 0.042) and work experience (p = 0.001) significantly related with the unhealthy snacking pattern scores. Daily snacking was significantly associated with hunger (p = 0.001), stress (p = 0.001), weight (p = 0.000), peer influence (p = 0.041) and taste (p = 0.001). Overall, hunger, stress, taste, peer influence, boredom and weight were significantly (p = 0.05) associated with unhealthy snacking patterns such as snacking in between, prioritizing taste over nutrition, exclusion of fruits and vegetables in snacks, lack of control over snacking and snacking habit.

Originality/value

This study uniquely identifies the snacking pattern of IT professionals from Pune, India, which primarily includes unhealthy snacking. Various socio-demographic and other factors such as hunger, taste, stress, boredom, convenience, weight and peer influence, were associated with unhealthy snacking. Understanding the snacking pattern and its determinants can help create nutrition interventions to promote healthy snacking and decrease the risk of noncommunicable diseases in IT professionals.
Biophilic designs: a solution for the psychological well-being and quality of life of older people
Authors: Pandita Deepika , Choudhary Himani
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aims to explore how including biophilic elements in the architectural and interior design of assisted living facilities can improve the well-being and quality of life of older people. This research paper explores the concept of biophilic design and its potential benefits for assisted living facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 39 peer-reviewed articles were reviewed. The research involved a comprehensive review of databases such as Scopus, EBSCO, Elsevier, JSTOR and Google Scholar using keywords and Boolean operators with reference to the study. The study’s inclusion criteria for articles were restricted to academic articles published between 2013 and 2022. The analysis of the current research will offer insights into the concept of biophilic design research and its impact on the well-being and quality of life of baby boomers in assisted living facilities.

Findings

The research advocates the benefits of biophilic design to enhance the psychological well-being and quality of life of baby boomers dwelling in assisted living facilities. Biophilic design is a strategy that blends natural elements into built environments to improve our connection with nature to enhance the physical and psychological health of older people. In the context of assisted living facilities, where residents commonly experience a variety of physical and psychological health concerns, adopting biophilic design in architecture holds enormous promise.

Originality/value

The research focuses on applying biophilic design in assisted living facilities and its holistic approach to the overall well-being of older people. The conceptual model proposed in the study has defined the positive aspects of the biophilic design on the psychological and physiological health of older people. Few studies have been done on the impact of biophilic design, specifically on baby boomers.
The impacts of milking frequency on nutrient composition and functional characteristics of Cheddar cheese
Authors: Page Richard M , Magan Jonathan B , Mannion David T , Kilcawley Kieran N , Murphy John Paul , Kennedy Emer , O'Donovan Michael , Tobin John T , O'Mahony James A , O'Callaghan Tom F , Lamichhane Prabin
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the effects of once‐a‐day (OAD) and twice‐a‐day (TAD) milking strategies on Cheddar cheese properties, within an Irish pasture‐based system. Cheese derived from OAD milk was more yellow, with significantly higher b* values and a significantly higher β‐carotene content. A significantly higher cheese yield also resulted from OAD milk. Compositional data were largely consistent with previously reported results, and no meaningful differences were found in texture, proteolysis, pH, volatile‐organic‐compounds and free‐fatty‐acid profile. Indications are that OAD milking does not negatively impact Cheddar quality, providing valuable insights for those considering milking frequency impacts on this key dairy product.
Finance and the environment: The eco‐impact of market‐ and institution‐driven development in Africa using land‐use‐adjusted metrics across sources of greenhouse gases
Authors: Eneje Beatrice Chinyere , Nwani Chinazaekpere , Okere Kingsley Ikechukwu , Okezie Benedette Nneka , Oko Ali Roseline
Published: April 2024

Africa must ensure that its development trajectories are sustainable. In pursuit of viable policy pathways, this study examines the eco‐impact of the energy mix (Te) and financial development (FD) in selected African countries. The Te path is defined using the emission‐intensity paradigm, where positive trends indicate a strong dependence on fossil fuels, while negative trends suggest a shift toward greener energy sources. The FD impact is disaggregated to recognize the separate effects of market‐based (FM) and institution‐based (FI) development. This study utilized land‐use metrics across major greenhouse gas (GHG) sources, drawing data from a panel of 33 countries spanning from 1982 to 2021. It employs a novel instrumental‐variables approach for fitting panel‐data models, addressing cross‐sectional dependence issues and incorporating heterogeneous slope coefficients using the mean‐group estimator. Empirical findings reveal that positive trends in Te have a significant and positive impact on total GHG emissions (GHGe), whereas FM has a negative and significant effect on GHGe, suggesting its active role in mitigating climate impacts. The disaggregation of GHGe highlights the distinct impacts on CO2 (CO2e), nitrous oxide (N2Oe) and methane (CH4e) emissions. Economic affluence positively impacts CH4e, while positive trends in Te primarily increase CO2e. FI significantly reduces N2Oe, while FM notably decreases CO2e. Furthermore, FI has a significant negative impact on the emission intensity of Te, indicating its role in promoting green energy transition. These findings underscore the necessity for nuanced policy interventions that integrate FD with environmental objectives, promote green energy transition and address land‐use challenges.
Review article: Telehealth in Emergency Medicine in Australasia: Advantages and barriers
Authors: Leonny Sheravika , Bowra Justin , Davis Rebecca A , Zuleta Natalia , Hansen Kim , Large Ruth , Yeung Justin
Published: April 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic catapulted Telehealth to the forefront of Emergency Medicine (EM) as an alternative way of assessing and managing patients. This challenged the traditional idea that EM can only be practised within brick‐and‐mortar EDs. Many Emergency Physicians may find the idea of practising Telehealth in Emergency Medicine (TEM) confronting, particularly in the absence of training and clear practice guidelines. The purpose of the present paper is to describe the current use of TEM in Australasia, and outline the advantages and barriers in adopting this practice domain.
Cereal leaf beetle‐associated bacteria enhance the survival of their host upon insecticide treatments and respond differently to insecticides with different modes of action
Authors: Wielkopolan Beata , Szabelska‐Beręsewicz Alicja , Gawor Jan , Obrępalska‐Stęplowska Aleksandra
Published: April 2024

The cereal leaf beetle (CLB, Oulema melanopus) is one of the major cereal pests. The effect of insecticides belonging to different chemical classes, with different mechanisms of action and the active substances' concentrations on the CLB bacterial microbiome, was investigated. Targeted metagenomic analysis of the V3–V4 regions of the 16S ribosomal gene was used to determine the composition of the CLB bacterial microbiome. Each of the insecticides caused a decrease in the abundance of bacteria of the genus Pantoea, and an increase in the abundance of bacteria of the genus Stenotrophomonas, Acinetobacter, compared to untreated insects. After cypermethrin application, a decrease in the relative abundance of bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas was noted. The dominant bacterial genera in cypermethrin‐treated larvae were Lactococcus, Pantoea, while in insects exposed to chlorpyrifos or flonicamid it was Pseudomonas. Insecticide‐treated larvae were characterized, on average, by higher biodiversity and richness of bacterial genera, compared to untreated insects. The depletion of CLB‐associated bacteria resulted in a decrease in larval survival, especially after cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos treatments. The use of a metagenome‐based functional prediction approach revealed a higher predicted function of bacterial acetyl‐CoA C‐acetyltransferase in flonicamid and chlorpyrifos‐treated larvae and tRNA dimethyltransferase in cypermethrin‐treated insects than in untreated insects.
Bacterial endophytic community composition varies by hemp cultivar in commercially sourced seed
Authors: Davies Jack , Hawkins Sarah , Winters Ana , Farrar Kerrie
Published: April 2024

The seed‐endophytic bacterial community is a potentially beneficial and heritable fraction of the plant microbiome. Its utilization as a sustainable crop improvement strategy could be especially valuable for species such as hemp, where production is being scaled up and new challenges will be faced in managing crop productivity and health. However, little is known about the makeup and variation of the hemp seed microbiome. This study profiled the endophytic bacterial communities harboured by 16 hemp cultivars sourced from commercial suppliers in Europe. A 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing approach identified 917 amplicon sequence variants across samples. Taxonomic classification of sequences revealed 4 phyla and 87 genera to be represented in the dataset. Several genera were widespread while some were specific to one or a few cultivars. Flavobacterium, Pseudomonas, and Pantoea were notable in their high overall abundance and prevalence, but community composition was variable and no one taxon was universally abundant, suggesting a high degree of flexibility in community assembly. Taxonomic composition and alpha diversity differed among cultivars, though further work is required to understand the relative influence of hemp genetic factors on community structure. The taxonomic profiles presented here can be used to inform further work investigating the functional characteristics and potential plant‐growth‐promoting traits of seed‐borne bacteria in hemp.
High first trimester ferritin levels differ according to parity and are independently related to preterm birth: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Broekhuis Annabel , Koenen Steven V. , Broeren Maarten A. C. , Krabbe Johannes G. , Pop Victor J. M.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

A considerable amount of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide is caused by preterm birth. To date, the underlying etiology of preterm birth has not been fully clarified. Previous studies demonstrate that inflammation is one of the pathological factors that might cause preterm birth, and that there is a difference between primiparous and multiparous women in immune response to pregnancy. The objective of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the role of two inflammatory markers, ferritin and C‐reactive protein (CRP) and preterm birth, in first trimester women, stratified for parity. In addition, a possible association between high ferritin and CRP, and a possible association between high ferritin and CRP and preterm birth were assessed.

Material and methods

A total of 2044 healthy, low‐risk pregnant women from primary obstetric care in the Netherlands participated in this study. Their ferritin and CRP levels were evaluated at 12 weeks’ gestation. Levels above the parity specific 95th percentile were defined as high. The main outcome of this study was to assess the presence of a possible association between parity specific high ferritin and CRP, and preterm birth. The secondary outcomes were the ferritin and CRP levels of women, stratified for parity, and the possible association between high ferritin and CRP levels.

Logistic regression analysis was performed with preterm birth as a dependent variable and parity specific high ferritin and CRP as an independent variable, adjusting for age and history of preterm birth.

Results

Ferritin levels decreased with increasing parity. Ferritin and CRP levels at 12 weeks’ gestation were significantly higher in women with preterm birth. In primiparous women, high ferritin levels (OR: 2.5, CI: 1.14–5.38) and high CRP levels (OR: 5.0, CI: 2.61–9.94) were independently associated with preterm birth. In multiparous women, high ferritin levels (OR: 6.0, CI: 2.28–16.67) were independently associated with preterm birth while high CRP levels were not.

Conclusions

First trimester parity specific ferritin and CRP levels could play a part in predictive models for preterm birth, and further research for their additive role in preterm birth is needed.
Editorial: Terlipressin and MDRO colonisation in cirrhosis—Is there a causal link?
Authors: Revelli Luciano , Dirchwolf Melisa
Published: April 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mücke et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17899
Letter: Bif195 for aspirin‐induced gastric mucosal damage—More to do in further research
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Peng Wenwan , Dong Mingguo
Published: April 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Løn et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17817 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18002
Recent steroid use and the relapse risk in ulcerative colitis patients with endoscopic healing
Authors: Fukuda Tomohiro , Yamazaki Hajime , Miyatani Yusuke , Sawada Tsunaki , Shibuya Naoki , Fukuo Yuka , Kiyohara Hiroki , Morikubo Hiromu , Tominaga Keiichi , Kakimoto Kazuki , Imai Takayuki , Yaguchi Katsuki , Yamamoto Shojiro , Ando Katsuyoshi , Nishimata Nobuaki , Yoshihara Takeo , Andoh Akira , Hibi Toshifumi , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi ,   IBD Terakoya Group
Published: April 2024

Background

Endoscopic healing (EH) is a therapeutic target in ulcerative colitis (UC). However, even patients who have achieved EH relapse frequently.

Aims

To investigate the association between recent steroid use and relapse risk in UC patients with EH.

Methods

This multi‐centre cohort study included 1212 UC patients with confirmed EH (Mayo endoscopic subscore ≤1). We excluded patients with current systemic steroid use or history of advanced therapy. We divided patients into a recent steroid group (last systemic steroid use within 1 year; n = 59) and a non‐recent or steroid‐naïve group (n = 1153). We followed the patients for 2 years to evaluate relapse, defined as induction of systemic steroids or advanced therapy. We used logistic regression to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of relapse.

Results

Relapse occurred in 28.8% of the recent steroid group and 5.6% of the non‐recent/steroid‐naïve group (multi‐variable‐adjusted OR 5.53 [95% CI 2.85–10.7]). The risk of relapse decreased with time since the last steroid use: 28.8% for less than 1 year after steroid therapy, 22.9% for 1 year, 16.0% for 2 years and 7.9% beyond 3 years, approaching 4.0% in steroid‐naïve patients. (ptrend <0.001).

Conclusions

Even for patients with UC who achieved EH, the risk of relapse remains high following recent steroid therapy. Physicians need to consider the duration since last steroid use to stratify the relapse risk in UC patients with EH.
Testing extinction events and temporal shifts in diversification and fossilization rates through the skyline Fossilized Birth‐Death (FBD) model: The example of some mid‐Permian synapsid extinctions
Authors: Didier Gilles , Laurin Michel
Published: April 2024

In the last decade, the Fossilized Birth–Death (FBD) process has yielded interesting clues about the evolution of biodiversity through time. To facilitate such studies, we extend our method to compute the probability density of phylogenetic trees of extant and extinct taxa in which the only temporal information is provided by the fossil ages (i.e. without the divergence times) in order to deal with the piecewise constant FBD process, known as the “skyline FBD”, which allows rates to change between pre‐defined time intervals, as well as modelling extinction events at the bounds of these intervals. We develop approaches based on this method to assess hypotheses about the diversification process and to answer questions such as “Does a mass extinction occur at this time?” or “Is there a change in the fossilization rate between two given periods?”. Our software can also yield Bayesian and maximum‐likelihood estimates of the parameters of the skyline FBD model under various constraints. These approaches are applied to a simulated dataset in order to test their ability to answer the questions above. Finally, we study an updated dataset of Permo‐Carboniferous synapsids to get additional insights into the dynamics of biodiversity change in three clades (Ophiacodontidae, Edaphosauridae and Sphenacodontidae) in the Pennsylvanian (Late Carboniferous) and Cisuralian (Early Permian), and to assess support for end‐Sakmarian (or Artinskian) and end‐Cisuralian mass extinction events discussed in previous studies.
Cardiorenal outcomes and mortality after sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitor initiation in type 2 diabetes patients with percutaneous coronary intervention history
Authors: Kim Jin Hwa , Lyu Young Sang , Kim BongSeong , Kim Mee Kyung , Kim Sang Yong , Baek Ki‐Hyun , Song Ki‐Ho , Han Kyungdo , Kwon Hyuk‐Sang
Published: April 2024

Aims

To evaluate the effects of initiating sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on cardiorenal outcomes and mortality compared to dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors as active comparators in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes with a history of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Materials and Methods

We used an active‐comparator, new‐user design and nationwide data from the National Health Insurance Service in South Korea from 2014 to 2019. Of the 56 392 patients who underwent PCI, 4610 new SGLT2 inhibitor users were paired 1:1 with DPP‐4 inhibitor users for analysis using propensity‐score matching.

Results

During 13 708.59 person‐years of follow‐up, the initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors, compared with the initiation of DPP‐4 inhibitors, was associated with a significantly lower risk of composite repeat revascularization, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure (HF), all‐cause death and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). The beneficial effects of SGLT2 inhibitor use were consistent with the components of stroke, HF, all‐cause death and ESRD. In the cohort that included health examination data, including anthropometric and metabolic factors, new use of SGLT2 inhibitors was associated with a significantly lower risk of HF (hazard ratio [HR] 0.574, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36–0.915), all‐cause death (HR 0.731, 95% CI 0.567–0.942), and ESRD (HR 0.076, 95% CI 0.018–0.319). The effects of SGLT2 inhibitor use were consistent regardless of the timing of the previous PCI.

Conclusions

The initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes and a history of PCI was significantly associated with a reduced risk of cardiorenal consequences and mortality, irrespective of time since the last PCI.
Barium titanate exposure on metallographic and mechanical performance of coir fiber made low‐density polyethylene composite
Authors: Aruna M. , Hossain Ismail , Kaliappan S. , Prabagaran S. , Venkatesh R. , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Mohanavel V. , Seikh A. H. , Prabhu P.
Published: April 2024

Technological growth and biodegradable waste natural fibers are significant choices in polymer matrix composite preparation because of their distinct qualities from monopoly matrix. During the fabrication process, the natural fiber faces poor compatibility and lack of adhesive behavior, resulting in reduced tensile strength and stiffness of the composite. The theme of the research is expanding the mechanical behavior of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) composite by the exposure of sodium hydroxide‐treated coir fiber (CF) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) through an injection molding route. Influences of CF and BaTiO3 on metallographic, tensile, flexural, and impact strength and microhardness of LDPE composite are evaluated, and its outcomes are compared with mono LDPE. The surface morphology of the developed composite is exposed to homogenous dispersion of BaTiO3 with effective adhesive bonding with CF, which facilitates superior mechanical properties. The LDPE hybrid composite consists of 30 wt% CF and 2.5 wt% of BaTiO3 and is exploited about 69 ± 1.5 MPa of tensile strength, 54 ± 0.5 MPa of flexural strength, 4.9 ± 0.01 J of impact energy, and 31 ± 1.5HV of microhardness, this is greater than the mono LDPE (unreinforced). The enriched LDPE hybrid composite is suggested for automotive dashboard applications.
Antimicrobial activity of rambutan peel colouring agent containing cardamom oil in shrimp paste and its potential mode of action
Authors: Chaidech Pailin , Matan Narumol
Published: April 2024

Rambutan peel (RP), an agricultural by‐product from rambutan trading, contains the red pigment anthocyanin. This research explores developing a colouring agent from RP, utilising cardamom oil (CM) to enhance colour stability, improve antimicrobial functionality, and create a new high‐value red colouring agent from fruit waste. A colouring agent was produced by placing 50 g of RP inside a 1 L glass box, and varying amounts of CM (5 μL, 25 μL, 50 μL, and 100 μL) on filter paper were placed inside the box lid. The box was sealed and left closed for 8 h to allow CM vapour to release onto the surface of RP before being dried at 30 °C and ground into powder. The antibacterial impact of CM‐treated RP on Staphylococcus aureus was assessed using the nutrient broth. The CM‐treated RP powder was used as a food colouring agent in shrimp paste to evaluate the shelf life of shrimp paste during storage at 30 °C. Results revealed that treated RP with 25 μL of CM showed the best red colour appearance in the dried powder. RP with 25 μL of CM exhibited time killing against S. aureus (approximately 4 log10cfu g−1) after being added to the medium for 6 h, disrupting the cell membrane integrity of S. aureus and leading to cell lysis. RP treated with 25 μL of CM also prevented darkening in shrimp paste, maintaining higher values for L* and a*, resulting in increased lightness and a more red appearance. It also inhibited pathogenic bacteria, extending shelf life, and preserving colour stability for 14 days, compared to the control's 7 days. These insights provide valuable guidance for the sustainable utilisation of agricultural waste in the food colouring industry.
Reclaiming Self‐Balancing on a Tightrope Across Time a grounded theory of transition to survivorship in older adult blood cancer survivors
Authors: Wood Sylvia K.
Published: April 2024

Aim

To develop a theoretical understanding of the transition to survivorship in older adult blood cancer survivors.

Design

Qualitative research employing Classic Glaserian Grounded Theory methods.

Methods

Purposive and theoretical sampling recruited 17 participants via Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society© Community webpages (65–83 years) from across the US and Canada. Data from individual semi‐structured interviews using HIPPA‐compliant Zoom© were analysed from September 2020 to March 2021.

Results

Participants' main concern was losing their sense of self and reclaiming self was the core category. The substantive theory of Reclaiming Self‐Balancing on a Tightrope Across Time is a six‐phase transition process to survivorship: receiving a blood cancer diagnosis, finding bearings, reclaiming self, persevering through, realizing a transition and living in a new reality.

Conclusions

The transition to survivorship in older adult blood cancer survivors is a complex process because of age and disease type.

Implications

Age‐related aspects of one's sense of self and its relation to health, well‐being and quality of life, as older adult blood cancer survivors advance into older age need further research. Ageism and its impact on cancer survivorship care in older adults should also be explored.

Impact

What problem did the study address?: Existing theoretical frameworks do not explain the complex process of transition to survivorship for older adult blood cancer survivors. What were the main findings?: A substantive theory Reclaiming Self‐Balancing on a Tightrope Across Time is a six‐phase transition process from cancer diagnosis to survivorship characterized by an uncertain and liminal nature. Where and on whom will the research have an impact?: Understanding how older adults experience the transition to survivorship can inform age‐appropriate person‐centered nursing practices and healthcare policies specific to their needs.

Reporting Method

COREQ.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Interpreting ‘What One Would Have Wanted’
Authors: Beardman Stephanie
Published: April 2024

When making decisions on behalf of someone, is asking what they would have wanted a good way to respect their autonomy? Against prevalent assumptions, I argue that in decisions about the care and treatment of those with advanced dementia, the notion of ‘what one would have wanted’ is conceptually, epistemically, and practically problematic. The problem stems from the disparity between the first‐person subjectivity of the past person and that of the present person. The transformative nature of dementia renders the very meaning of ‘what the patient would have wanted’ problematic. When applied to those with advanced dementia, the subjunctive notion is either (i) incoherent, (ii) fundamentally indeterminate, or (iii) normatively irrelevant.