bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacteria Are a Major Determinant of Orsay Virus Transmission and Infection inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Vassallo Brian G. , Scheidel Noémie , Fischer Sylvia E. J. , Kim Dennis H.
Published: September 2023

The microbiota is a key determinant of the physiology and immunity of animal hosts. The factors governing the transmissibility of viruses between susceptible hosts are incompletely understood. Bacteria serve as food forCaenorhabditis elegansand represent an integral part of the natural environment ofC. elegans.We determined the effects of bacteria isolated withC. elegansfrom its natural environment on the transmission of Orsay virus inC. elegansusing quantitative virus transmission and host susceptibility assays. We observed thatOchrobactrumspecies promoted Orsay virus transmission, whereasPseudomonas luridaMYb11 attenuated virus transmission relative to the standard laboratory bacterial foodEscherichia coliOP50. We found that pathogenicPseudomonas aeruginosastrains PA01 and PA14 further attenuated virus transmission. We determined that the amount of Orsay virus required to infect 50% of aC. eleganspopulation onP. luridaMYb11 compared withOchrobactrum vermisMYb71 was dramatically increased, over three orders of magnitude. Host susceptibility was attenuated even further in presence ofP. aeruginosaPA14. Genetic analysis of the determinants ofP. aeruginosarequired for attenuation ofC. eleganssusceptibility to Orsay virus infection revealed a role for regulators of quorum sensing. Our data suggest that distinct constituents of theC. elegansmicrobiota and potential pathogens can have widely divergent effects on Orsay virus transmission, such that associated bacteria can effectively determine host susceptibility versus resistance to viral infection. Our study provides quantitative evidence for a critical role for tripartite host-virus-bacteria interactions in determining the transmissibility of viruses among susceptible hosts.
Phytohormones regulate asexualToxoplasma gondiireplication
Authors: Wagner Tina , Bangoura Berit , Wiedmer Stefanie , Daugschies Arwid , Dunay Ildiko Rita
Published: September 2023

The protozoanToxoplasma (T.) gondiiis a zoonotic disease agent causing systemic infection in warm-blooded intermediate hosts including humans. During acute infections, the parasite infects host cells and multiplies intracellularly in the asexual tachyzoite stage. In this stage of the life cycle, invasion, multiplication, and egress are most critical events in the parasite’s replication.T. gondiifeatures diverse cell organelles to support these processes, including the so-called apicoplast, an endosymbiont-derived vestigial plastid originating from an alga ancestor. Previous studies have highlighted that phytohormones can modify the calcium-mediated secretion, e.g., of adhesins involved in parasite movement and cell invasion processes. The present study aimed to elucidate the influence of different plant hormones on the replication of asexual tachyzoites in a human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) host cell culture.T. gondiireplication was measured by the determination ofT. gondiiDNA copies via qPCR. Three selected phytohormones, namely abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellic acid (GIBB), and kinetin (KIN)as representatives of different plant hormone groups were tested. Moreover, the influence of typical cell culture media components on the phytohormone effects was assessed. Our results indicate that ABA is able to induce a significant increase ofT. gondiiDNA copies in typical supplemented cell culture medium when applied in concentrations of 20 ng/μl or 2 ng/μl, respectively. In contrast, depending on the culture medium composition, GIBB may potentially serve asT. gondiigrowth inhibitor and may be further investigated as a potential treatment for toxoplasmosis.
Advancing therapeutics using antibody-induced dimerization of receptor tyrosine phosphatases
Authors: Tremblay Michel L.
Published: September 2023

Receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases (RPTPs) are involved in a broad list of cellular, developmental, and physiological functions. Altering their expression leads to significant changes in protein phosphorylation linked to a growing list of human diseases, including cancers and neurological disorders. In this issue ofGenes & Development, Qian and colleagues (pp. 743–759) present the identification of a monoclonal antibody targeting PTPRD extracellular domain-inducing dimerization and inhibition of the phosphatase activities, causing the proteolysis of dimeric PTPRD by a mechanism involving intracellular degradation pathways. Their study supports the potential of modulating PTPRD via its extracellular domains. This opens a new framework in the clinical manipulation of PTPRD and its closely related family members.
Online dynamic flat-field correction for MHz microscopy data at European XFEL
Authors: Birnsteinova Sarlota , Ferreira de Lima Danilo E. , Sobolev Egor , Kirkwood Henry J. , Bellucci Valerio , Bean Richard J. , Kim Chan , Koliyadu Jayanath C. P. , Sato Tokushi , Dall'Antonia Fabio , Asimakopoulou Eleni Myrto , Yao Zisheng , Buakor Khachiwan , Zhang Yuhe , Meents Alke , Chapman Henry N. , Mancuso Adrian P. , Villanueva-Perez Pablo , Vagovič Patrik
Published: September 2023

The high pulse intensity and repetition rate of the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser (EuXFEL) provide superior temporal resolution compared with other X-ray sources. In combination with MHz X-ray microscopy techniques, it offers a unique opportunity to achieve superior contrast and spatial resolution in applications demanding high temporal resolution. In both live visualization and offline data analysis for microscopy experiments, baseline normalization is essential for further processing steps such as phase retrieval and modal decomposition. In addition, access to normalized projections during data acquisition can play an important role in decision-making and improve the quality of the data. However, the stochastic nature of X-ray free-electron laser sources hinders the use of standard flat-field normalization methods during MHz X-ray microscopy experiments. Here, an online (i.e. near real-time) dynamic flat-field correction method based on principal component analysis of dynamically evolving flat-field images is presented. The method is used for the normalization of individual X-ray projections and has been implemented as a near real-time analysis tool at the Single Particles, Clusters, and Biomolecules and Serial Femtosecond Crystallography (SPB/SFX) instrument of EuXFEL.
Systematic investigation of the logistics service quality of cross-border e-commerce: a mixed-methods perspective
Authors: Zhang Yu , Yuan Yafen , Su Jiafu
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study explores the factors that characterize the logistics service quality (LSQ) of cross-border e-commerce and identifies the different relationships between these factors with respect to customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applied a two-stage mixed-methods design. The first stage (Stage 1) was a qualitative study of 3,000 reviews from the Amazon China e-commerce platform. The second stage (Stage 2) included a quantitative study that analyzed survey data from 590 Chinese cross-border e-commerce customers using the Kano model.

Findings

Stage 1 involved developing a conceptual framework for the LSQ of cross-border e-commerce, including six dimensions: timeliness, safety, reliability, economy, personnel contact quality and information quality. In Stage 2, the study found that only reliability and personnel contact quality indicators are linearly related to customer satisfaction. Timeliness and the safety of packaging greatly contribute to customer satisfaction, but do not cause dissatisfaction when unfulfilled. Economics and information quality indicators, and the safety of goods, are basic requirements that tend to provoke customer dissatisfaction when unmet, but do not increase customer satisfaction when they are met.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to construct a conceptual model of LSQ that applies to cross-border e-commerce and to identify the instrumental nature of various LSQ attributes and their impact on improved customer satisfaction.
Bibliometric and content analyses of research on technology use in real estate facilities management
Authors: Okoro Chioma
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Technological change drives transformation in most sectors of the economy. Industry 4.0 technologies have been applied at different stages of a building’s lifecycle. However, limited studies exist on their application in real estate facilities management (REFM). This study aims to assess the existing knowledge on the topic to suggest further research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

Scopus-indexed literature from 2013 to 2023 was examined and visualised using VOSviewer software to output quantitative (descriptive) results. Content analysis was used to complement the quantitative findings.

Findings

Findings indicated a concentration of research in China, Norway and Italy. The knowledge areas included three clusters: lifecycle integration and management, data curation and management and organisational and management capabilities. The benefits, challenges and support strategies were highlighted.

Research limitations/implications

More collaboration is needed across countries and territories on technology integration in REFM. Future research using alternative methodologies is recommended, with a focus on adopting and non-adopting REFM organisations. Further, implications for facility managers, employees, technology suppliers or vendors, training, organisations and management exist.

Practical implications

Further, implications for facility managers, employees, technology suppliers or vendors, training, organisations and management exist.

Originality/value

The study reveals the knowledge base on technology use in REFM. It adds to the evidence base on innovation and technology adoption in REFM.
The impact of normative institutions on socially sustainable supply chain management: the role of individual cultural values
Authors: Zhang Chi , Venkatesh Mani , Ohana Marc
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Drawing on institutional theory, this study investigates the role of individual cultural values on the adoption of socially sustainable supply chain management (socially SSCM) for Chinese suppliers facing the normative institutional pressures of guanxi (interpersonal relationships).

Design/methodology/approach

Using empirical data collected in three waves from 205 Chinese manufacturers supplying international markets, the proposed theoretical model is tested through partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results indicate that guanxi has a positive impact on socially SSCM, and this positive effect is strengthened when the individual cultural values of the supplier's representative embody high collectivism and low uncertainty avoidance.

Research limitations/implications

This study highlights the leading role of guanxi in improving socially SSCM practices due to its normative institutional force. In addition, the findings suggest that future studies should consider individual differences in supply chain partners, which may lead to distinct reactions when facing normative institutional pressures.

Practical implications

This study suggests international buyers should adopt guanxi management with their Chinese suppliers to encourage them to adopt socially SSCM. In addition, managers should note that the guanxi strategy is more effective when the supplier's representative collectivism is high and uncertainty avoidance is low.

Originality/value

This study contributes to socially SSCM research in emerging economies by unveiling the role of guanxi as a key driver of socially SSCM in the Chinese market and providing empirical evidence of the moderating effect of individual culture on the guanxi normative institutionalization process.
More on adoption criteria of revolutionary business techniques: the case of ETFs
Authors: Brockhoff Klaus
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to add further evidence to adoption criteria for “revolutionary” business techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

Adoption criteria for business techniques with a high degree of novelty have been developed earlier. The case of exchange-traded funds supports the earlier findings. The methodology applied is explicative.

Findings

The analysis supports findings that an effective response to a problem, the availability of a controllable procedure, the means to apply the procedure easily and the hardware jointly explain adopting “revolutionary” business techniques.

Research limitations/implications

The results of case studies, in general, do not permit induction. More research might identify additional adoption criteria or falsify the presently obtained results. Therefore, further research is invited.

Practical implications

Managers seeking or being introduced to new techniques in business administration might use the criteria outlined here for their evaluation.

Originality/value

The author believes this paper corroborates earlier findings on adopting “revolutionary” business techniques that draw on theoretically developed technologies.
Quality standards for tribunal decision making in strata disputes
Authors: Knoll A.M. David D.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate Australian civil tribunal decisions to ascertain compliance with decisional quality standards in Australian law, with a particular focus on strata and community title cases.

Design/methodology/approach

An orthodox doctrinal legal analysis and assessment of cases and tribunal policies was adopted. All Australian jurisdictions were surveyed, including federal, state and territory jurisdictions. The case law in each jurisdiction was screened to identify whether the principles applicable to decisional quality were engaged and then analysed as to the extent of that engagement.

Findings

Where a party presents a substantial, clearly particularised argument relying upon established facts, tribunals are obliged to address those facts and the arguments by way of an active intellectual process. However, appellate decisions disclose a degree of deference not often accorded to judicial officers, and there is a need for a more disciplined approach to ascertain whether any errors have been made by a tribunal lie on the critical path to the decision. As strata and community title disputes become more complex, the importance of decisional quality standards can only increase.

Research limitations/implications

Up to date as of 1 March 2023.

Practical implications

The present position would appear to be that where a party presents a substantial, clearly particularised argument relying upon established facts, a tribunal must address its mind to those facts and the arguments by way of an active intellectual process. The requirement is limited to circumstances prescribed by a statute and factual and legal issues which are necessary to be determined in order for the tribunal to be satisfied as to circumstances prescribed by a statute. However, where the errors are not gross and plainly obvious, appeals from defective tribunal decisions are unlikely to succeed. There is a degree of deference not often accorded to judicial officers. That deference is unfortunate when tribunals are allocated jurisdiction over what quite often are significant property disputes.

Social implications

The impact on community living of uncorrected poor quality tribunal decisions can be immense, depending on the degree of error. For example, water ingress into people’s homes might remain unremedied for many years, as, for example, occurred in the Marinko case.

Originality/value

The research and analysis is entirely original. A search of journals and textbooks did not identify any prior analysis, at least in the Australian context, relating to decisional quality standards of tribunals.
Contagion in the Euro area sovereign CDS market: a spatial approach
Authors: Ben Abdallah Nadia , Dabbou Halim , Gallali Mohamed Imen
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper explores whether the Euro-area sovereign credit default swap market is prone to contagion effects. It investigates whether the sharp increase in sovereign CDS spread of a given country is due to a deterioration of the macroeconomic variables or some form of contagion.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, the authors use an innovative approach, i.e. spatial econometrics. Although modeling spatial dependence is an attractive challenge, its application in the field of finance remains limited.

Findings

The empirical findings show strong evidence of spatial dependence highlighting the presence of pure contagion. Furthermore, evidence of wake-up call contagion-increased sensitivity of investors to fundamentals of neighboring countries and shift contagion-increased sensitivity to common factors are well recorded.

Originality/value

This study aims to study a crucial financial issue that gained increased research interest, i.e. financial contagion. A methodological contribution is made by extending the standard spatial Durbin model (SDM) to analyze and differentiate between several forms of contagion. The results can be used to understand how shocks are spreading through countries.
Advertising and financial performance: insight from a competitive market in Africa
Authors: Akorede Hamza
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between advertisement expenditure and firm performance as well as the moderating effects of firm age and size on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Twenty-eight selected companies listed on the Nigerian stock exchange were examined. The study used multiple regression, a quantitative research method, to capture both the direct and moderating effects.

Findings

The findings show that advertisement has a positive relationship with sales but an insignificant relationship with return on asset. Furthermore, the results indicate that larger firms outperform smaller ones when using advertisements to enhance their sales. On the contrary, there is no significant difference between the use of advertisement by young and older firms in improving financial performance.

Originality/value

Due to the often-wrong use of resource base view in the advertisement–performance relationship and contradiction in research findings, this paper re-conceptualize advertisement as a necessary investment (just like plant and equipment) but not an investment that provide strategic value. The paper also makes novel argument by theorizing a negative relationship between advertisement and firms’ performance in the Nigerian context.
Coping with audit society pressures: a review of NGO responses to funder accountability demands
Authors: Boomsma Roel
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to extend some of the theoretical propositions of Michael Power’s (1997) audit society thesis by exploring the capacity of organisations to push back against external accountability pressures. The paper positions the literature on non-governmental organisation (NGO) accounting and accountability as a “case study” against which the notion of the audit society is put to the test.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative meta-synthesis of the accounting literature is used to analyse how NGOs have responded to audit society pressures – most notably funder pressures to adopt formalised accountability mechanisms. The different responses of NGOs to funder accountability demands are analysed using Christine Oliver’s (1991) typology of strategic responses to institutional processes.

Findings

This review of the accounting literature unveils that NGOs can adopt a range of strategic responses to funder accountability pressures that vary from passive conformity to proactive manipulation. The findings confirm that NGOs often perceive acquiescence to funder accountability demands as necessary to ensure organisational survival. Yet, the author also found that NGO resistance to funder accountability pressures is more common than previously assumed. Five dominant forms of “accountability resistances” emerged from the analysis: evading accountability, disguising accountability, shielding accountability, negotiating accountability and shaping accountability.

Originality/value

By conducting a qualitative meta-synthesis of the accounting literature, the author was able to integrate the findings of prior research on NGO resistance to funder accountability demands, guide future research and extend Michael Power’s (1997) work by developing a more nuanced understanding of how organisations respond to external accountability pressures.
The Scylla State. A gendered understanding of the experiences of marginalised women in the United Kingdom
Authors: Hamer Rebecca
Published: September 2023

Since the formation of the 2012 Coalition government, the UK has been subject to 12 years of neoliberal policy enacted with ferocity and vigour. This has comprised austerity measures including the retrenchment of welfare via the reshaping of the welfare state and public services according to business practices, ideals of individual responsibilisation and overwhelmingly, the notion of reducing the state's ideological and fiscal responsibility for equity and social welfare. The neoliberal state has been conceptualised by Loic Wacquant as a Centaur, boasting a liberal head, yet one atop an authoritarian body whose focus is the designated ‘underclasses’, the socially and economically non‐compliant. The Centaur takes away with one hand while ruling punitively with the other, specifically via ‘prisonfare’ and ‘workfare’ to compel submission to precarious and sub‐par employment. Although compelling, the Centaur State is justifiably critiqued for its blindness to gender and focus upon the manifestation of neoliberalism in the States. By exploring the stories of 23 women in the UK with histories of survival sex working and problematic drug use, a distinct gendered alternative reality emerges of the operation and machinations of the neoliberal state. Rather than a Centaur, marginalised women experience the Scylla State, a covert, hydra‐headed beast motivated by neo‐Victorian ideals of ‘womanfare’. The operations of the Scylla State are unpredictable, replicate traumatising interpersonal experiences and variously involve surveillance, coercion, conditionality and the responsibilisation of victimhood to justify increasingly punitive responses to women's survival strategies in the face of increasing trauma and deprivation.
Valorisation of cheese whey for ectoine production by Halomonas neptunia
Authors: Orhan Furkan , Ceyran Ertuğrul
Published: September 2023

The production of ectoine, a valuable compound with significant potential as an osmoprotectant, antioxidant, macromolecule protector and anti‐inflammatory agent, was achieved by a lactose‐utilising bacterial strain. We explore the feasibility of using cheese whey, a waste product rich in lactose and amino acids, as a growth medium. The optimisation of various parameters was conducted to maximise ectoine yield. The highest ectoine production was achieved using 50% diluted whey, pH 6.50, 10% NaCl, 150 rpm and 30°C. This is the first study in which whey was efficiently utilised to produce ectoine by Halomonas neptunia.
Chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy: Prospective observational study of unplanned emergency department presentations
Authors: Bak Grace G , Micklethwaite Kenneth , Maddock Karen , Coggins Andrew
Published: September 2023

Objective

Chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy is an emerging treatment for refractory hematologic malignancy. Unplanned ED presentations following CAR‐T present the increasing need for an integrated model of care that allows for the early recognition of its specific complications.

Methods

This is a prospective observational study at a tertiary centre. CAR‐T patients (n = 17) were universally enrolled into a study registry by treating providers. These patients were flagged by investigators to trigger a pop‐up notification CAR‐T information warning at ED triage. Medical records were reviewed 90 days for unplanned presentations, complications and patient‐oriented outcomes.

Results

Patients receiving CAR‐T frequently encountered toxicity within 7 days of therapy. This was typically mild and occurred in an inpatient setting. Medical record review revealed five unplanned ED presentations (that were recognised as post CAR‐T) and not directly attributable to specific toxicities.

Conclusion

If CAR‐T therapy is to be used more widely especially in an outpatient model of care, a standardised ED model of care for recognition of specific complications is needed.
Firearm restrictions in domestic violence protection orders: Implementation, vetting, compliance, and enforcement
Authors: Ellyson Alice M. , Adhia Avanti , Shanahan Sandra , Alsinai Aisha , DiMascolo Lisa , Reygers Maxmilliaan , Bowen Deirdre , Rowhani‐Rahbar Ali
Published: September 2023

Research Summary

We quantified the implementation of WA state's domestic violence (DV)‐related firearm prohibitions (RCW9.41.800) by the courts and the Regional Domestic Violence Firearms Enforcement Unit (RDVFEU), a regional approach to compliance promotion. We measured implementation, vetting, compliance, and enforcement of firearm prohibitions before (2014–2016) and after (2018–2020) the RDVFEU was implemented using a 55% random sample of granted domestic violence protection orders (DVPOs) in King County, WA (n = 3543). We evaluated differences in judicial orders to surrender firearms and other dangerous weapons (OTSWs), respondent documented compliance, and respondent weapon and/or firearm relinquishment before and after implementation. Compared to DVPOs granted prior to RDVFEU implementation, granted DVPOs after RDVFEU implementation were at least 4.5 times more likely to include an OTSW. RDVFEU implementation was also associated with at least 3.4 times the odds of respondent documented compliance and at least 3.3 times the odds of respondent relinquishment of at least one firearm and/or other dangerous weapon. These findings demonstrate RDVFEU implementation was associated with benefits at each stage of the protection order process with improvements in both judicial enforcement and respondent compliance. Overall, RDVFEU implementation was associated with improvements in granted orders to surrender weapons, respondent compliance, and relinquishment.

Policy Implications

DV‐related firearm prohibitions can be supported by interdisciplinary teams within the legal system to promote respondent compliance and enhance safety planning for DV victim–survivors.
Delineating the phenotype of PNPLA8‐related mitochondriopathies
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Mohamed S. , Abdel‐Salam Ghada M. H. , Abdel‐Ghafar Sherif F. , Zaki Maha S.
Published: September 2023

Pathogenic variants in PNPLA8 have been described either with congenital onset displaying congenital microcephaly, early onset epileptic encephalopathy and early lethality or childhood neurodegeneration with progressive microcephaly. Moreover, a phenotype comprising adulthood onset cerebellar ataxia and peripheral neuropathy was also reported. To our knowledge, only six patients with biallelic variants in PNPLA8 have been reported so far. Here, we report the clinical and molecular characterizations of three additional patients in whom exome sequencing identified a loss of function variant (c.1231C>T, p.Arg411Ter) in Family I and a missense variant (c.1559T>A, p.Val520Asp) in Family II in PNPLA8. Patient 1 presented with the congenital form of the disease while Patients 2 and 3 showed progressive microcephaly, infantile onset seizures, progressive cortical atrophy, white matter loss, bilateral degeneration of basal ganglia, and cystic encephalomalacia. Therefore, our results add the infantile onset as a new distinct phenotype of the disease and suggest that the site of the variant rather than its type is strongly correlated with the disease onset. In addition, these conditions demonstrate some overlapping features representing a spectrum with clinical features always aligning with different age of onset.
Genomics and transcriptomic alterations of the glutamate receptors in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Alqahtani Amani , Wang Mengxi , Lou Mimi , Alachkar Houda
Published: September 2023

Glutamine and glutamate have been widely explored as potential therapeutic targets in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition to its bioenergetic role in leukemia cell proliferation, L‐glutamate is a neurotransmitter that acts on glutamate receptors. However, the role of glutamate receptors in AML is largely understudied. Here, we comprehensively analyze the genomic and transcriptomic alterations of glutamate receptor genes in AML using publicly available data. We investigated the frequency of mutations in the glutamate receptor genes and whether an association exist between the presence of these mutations and clinical and molecular characteristics or patient's clinical outcome. We also assessed the dysregulation of glutamate receptor gene expression in AML with and without mutations and whether gene dysregulation is associated with clinical outcomes. We found that 29 (14.5%) of 200 patients with AML had a mutation in at least one glutamate receptor gene. The DNMT3A mutations were significantly more frequent in patients with mutations in at least one glutamate receptor gene compared with patients without mutations (13 of 29 [44.8%] vs. 41 of 171 [23.9%], p value: 0.02). Notably, patients with mutations in at least one glutamate receptor gene survived shorter than patients without mutations; however, the results did not reach statistical significance (overall survival: 15.5 vs. 19.0 months; p value: 0.10). Mutations in the glutamate receptor genes were not associated with changes in gene expression and the transcriptomic levels of glutamate receptor genes were not associated with clinical outcome.
Patterns of reef fish taxonomic and functional diversity in the Eastern Tropical Pacific
Authors: Dubuc Alexia , Quimbayo Juan Pablo , Alvarado Juan José , Araya‐Arce Tatiana , Arriaga Andrea , Ayala‐Bocos Arturo , Julio Casas‐Maldonado Jose , Chasqui Luis , Cortés Jorge , Cupul‐Magaña Amilcar , Olivier Damien , Olán‐González Manuel , González‐Leiva Alberto , López‐Pérez Andrés , Reyes‐Bonilla Héctor , Smith Franz , Rivera Fernando , Rodríguez‐Zaragoza Fabián A. , Rodríguez‐Villalobos Jenny Carolina , Segovia Johanna , Zapata Fernando A. , Bejarano Sonia
Published: September 2023

A core challenge in ecology is identifying the factors that determine species distribution and functional diversity of species assemblages. Reef fish are the most diverse group of vertebrates, form taxonomically rich and functionally diverse communities and represent a key source of food for humans. We examine regional distribution patterns of reef fish species richness and functional diversity and investigate how these are determined by historical, biogeographic, energetic, and anthropogenic factors. We compiled data from 3,312 underwater visual censuses performed at 122 locations comprising rocky and coral reefs along the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP). We used generalized linear mixed‐effects models (GLMMs) implemented in a Bayesian framework to investigate whether distance from quaternary refugia, distance from mainland, shelf area, primary productivity, sea surface temperature (SST), human population gravity, and conservation status influence reef fish species richness and functional diversity in the ETP. Species richness and functional richness (FRic) peaked towards the center of the ETP and our null model suggests that FRic followed a spatial pattern that would be predicted by species richness. Additionally, functional evenness (FEve) was highest at higher latitudes whereas functional dispersion (FDis) was homogeneous throughout the ETP. Species richness was negatively influenced by shelf area and distance from mainland, but positively influenced by SST and conservation status. FEve was influenced by human population gravity and FDis by shelf area. Reef fish species richness and functional diversity in the ETP exhibited a strong division within the region mainly mediated by SST and human population gravity. Our results also suggest that dominant species within small shelf areas share more common traits than dominant species in large areas. This study uncovers previously unknown regional patterns of reef fish functional diversity and provides new insights into how historical, biogeographic, energetic, and anthropogenic factors influence complementary biodiversity facets.
Searching for meaning during the pandemic: Delivery riders’ motivations in keeping the city of Wuhan running
Authors: Ji Guangxu , Zhai Huiwen , Zhou Daming , Lavender Christopher
Published: September 2023

This article explores the motivations behind the moral code of delivery rider migrant workers who served in Wuhan, China, during the pandemic. Based on ethnographic research, we analyze how riders experienced the challenging situation of everyday work. Influenced by socialist and neoliberal contexts, the riders’ actions reflect diversified moral values combining individualistic and collectivist ethics. The precarious conditions gave rise to alternative visions and opportunities for the migrant laborers. They created a new mode of autonomy with economic rationality and emotional bonds to a geographical locality. Simultaneously, the riders’ identity was temporarily reshaped by both the public and themselves, creating responsibility and meaning. This act of strong “social responsibility” reconnected individuals trapped in the plight of the pandemic. This kind of altruistic behavior exemplified the process of people seeking meaning through their work.
Agglomeration factors and the geography of growing early‐stage businesses in Chile
Authors: Modrego Félix , Atienza Miguel , Hernández Leónidas
Published: September 2023

New models of agglomeration cast the urban productivity premium as the outcome of agglomeration economies, a spatial sorting of skilled entrepreneurs and greater selection effects leading to less, but more productive businesses. We provide descriptive evidence of the spatial distribution of growing early‐stage businesses in Chile that concurs with the theory. We show, first, that while business entry rates increase systematically with the size of a region, the rates of growing early‐stage businesses are not related to the levels of agglomeration. Second, we show that, on the contrary, average early‐stage business productivity, the levels of human capital and business exit rates all relate positively with agglomeration. Third, we estimate regression models that verify the expected relationships between agglomeration factors and regional growing early‐stage‐business activity. The results for Chile suggest that the disadvantages of agglomeration largely offset the benefits, and therefore there is no obvious location penalty to venturing in peripheral areas. Entrepreneurship policies in less‐developed countries should not target excessively to specific industries and regions, as they might curtail an entrepreneurial potential that is ubiquitous.
Health‐related quality of life aspects of the ‘Periodontitis prevalence in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease’ (PPCC) cohort
Authors: Bertl Kristina , Tsakos Georgios , Pandis Nikolaos , Bogren Anna , Burisch Johan , Stavropoulos Andreas
Published: September 2023

Aim

To assess whether oral health problems affect disease‐specific quality of life (QoL) of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, and vice versa, whether IBD affects oral‐health‐related QoL.

Materials and Methods

Individuals reporting IBD and matched controls were surveyed on general anamnestic information, oral‐health‐related questions and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)‐5. IBD patients were additionally surveyed on years since diagnosis, disease activity and severity as well as health‐related QoL (Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire, sIBDQ). OHIP‐5 and sIBDQ were defined as primary outcome parameters, and several predictors and confounders were used in adjusted univariable and multivariable regression analyses.

Results

Answers from 1108 IBD patients and 3429 controls were analysed. Compared with controls, IBD patients reported significantly more frequently an oral impact on daily life and worse oral‐health‐related QoL, with Crohn's disease (CD) patients being more severely affected than ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. The diagnosis of UC and CD, having <20 teeth, severe periodontitis and stressful daily‐life experience were associated with a higher prevalence of poor oral‐health‐related QoL. Among IBD patients, an impaired IBD‐specific, health‐related QoL was significantly associated with the diagnosis of CD and depression, IBD activity and severity, having <20 teeth, presence of oral lesions and stressful daily‐life experience, while a longer time since diagnosis was significantly associated with an improved IBD‐specific, health‐related QoL.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate, for the first time, that oral health problems are associated with an impairment of IBD‐specific health‐related QoL, and vice versa, IBD is associated with an impaired oral health‐related QoL. This emphasizes the potential advantages of including dental professionals in the multi‐disciplinary treatment teams of IBD patients.
In vivo method for evaluating sunscreen protection against high‐energy visible light
Authors: Le Digabel J. , Filiol J. , Lauze C. , Redoulès D. , Josse G.
Published: September 2023

Background

Overexposure to sunlight can have many harmful biological effects on the skin, leading to skin cancer and photoaging. As ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been identified as a cause of DNA damage and oxidative stress in the skin, the photoprotection provided by sunscreens is evaluated through their ability to filter UV light, using the sun protection factor (SPF). However, recent data have shown that high‐energy visible (HEV) light can also cause biological skin damage.

Objectives

To develop a new in vivo method for evaluating the protection provided by sunscreens across a broad range of wavelengths, including the HEV band, based on multispectral image analysis.

Methods

This study evaluated the absorption properties of six commercially available sunscreens (five SPF 50+ products containing organic UV filters, and one product containing the wide spectrum filter, phenylene bis‐diphenyltriazine [TriAsorB™]) and of a control product containing no filter. Multispectral images were acquired from the skin on the forearms of healthy volunteers, before and after application of the test products. Images taken with LEDs emitting light at wavelengths ranging from UV to infrared were used to generate light reflectance maps for each product. The levels of absorbance of light in the UV and visible bands were then calculated.

Results

The product containing the wide spectrum filter exhibited significantly higher absorbance over the HEV band (380–450 nm) than the control product and the other commercial sunscreens. All the sunscreens tested showed the same level of absorbance at 365 nm (UVA).

Conclusions

Multispectral imaging provides a simple and reliable in vivo method for assessing the real‐world protection provided by sunscreens against all forms of photo‐induced skin damage, including that induced by HEV radiation.
Metformin shows anti‐neoplastic properties by inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis in epidermolysis bullosa‐associated aggressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Welponer T. , Weber D. D. , Trattner L. , Tockner B. , Aminzadeh‐Gohari S. , Leb‐Reichl V. , Kaufmann A. , Zauner R. , Wimmer M. , Wally V. , Felder T. K. , Strunk D. , Koller U. , Bauer J. W. , Kofler B. , Guttmann‐Gruber C. , Piñon Hofbauer J.
Published: September 2023

Background

While most cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs) are treatable, certain high‐risk cSCCs, such as those in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) patients, are particularly aggressive. Owing to repeated wounding, inflammation and unproductive healing, RDEB patients have a 68% cumulative risk of developing life‐threatening cSCCs by the age of 35, and a 70% risk of death by the age of 45. Despite aggressive treatment, cSCC represents the leading cause of premature mortality in these patients, highlighting an unmet clinical need. Increasing evidence points to a role of altered metabolism in the initiation and maintenance of cSCC, making metabolism a potential therapeutic target.

Objectives

We sought to determine the feasibility of targeting tumour cell energetics as a strategy to selectively hinder the growth advantage of aggressive cSCC.

Methods

We evaluated the cell energetics profiles of RDEB‐SCC cells by analysing available gene expression data against multiple gene signatures and single‐gene targets linked to metabolic reprogramming. Additionally, we employed real‐time metabolic profiling to measure glycolysis and respiration in these cells. Furthermore, we investigated the anti‐neoplastic properties of the metformin against human and murine high‐risk cSCCs in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Gene expression analyses highlighted a divergence in cell energetics profiles between RDEB‐SCC and non‐malignant RDEB keratinocytes, with tumour cells demonstrating enhanced respiration and glycolysis scores. Real‐time metabolic profiling supported these data and additionally highlighted a metabolic plasticity of RDEB‐SCC cells. Against this background, metformin exerted an anti‐neoplastic potential by hampering both respiration and glycolysis, and by inhibiting proliferation in vitro. Metformin treatment in an analogous model of fast‐growing murine cSCC resulted in delayed tumour onset and slower tumour growth, translating to a 29% increase in median overall survival.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that metformin exerts anti‐neoplastic properties in aggressive cSCCs that exhibit high‐risk features by interfering with respiration and glycolytic processes.
The Patient‐Oriented Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis and SCORAD in young children: New data on interpretability and clinical usefulness
Authors: Barbarot S. , Aubert H. , Stalder J.‐F. , Roye S. , Delarue A.
Published: September 2023

Background

There is limited data about the clinical meaningfulness of the Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) and Patient‐Oriented SCORAD (PO‐SCORAD), particularly in children with mild‐to‐moderate AD. Regular use of patient‐reported outcomes, may deliver more accurate information about the overall health status of AD patients than routine but sparse physician assessments.

Objective

To confirm the correlation between SCORAD, PO‐SCORAD, Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM) and Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA). To evaluate the interpretability and clinical usefulness of the SCORAD and PO‐SCORAD scores in children.

Methods

Data were drawn from a 12‐week randomized controlled trial in 335 children, aged 2–6 years, with mainly mild‐to‐moderate AD. Investigators captured SCORAD and IGA at each study visit. Parents used PO‐SCORAD twice‐weekly, and POEM once‐weekly.

Results

There were strong correlations between PO‐SCORAD and SCORAD (r = 0.874), PO‐SCORAD and POEM (0.734) and PO‐SCORAD and IGA (0.613). The best fit (‘k’ statistic: 0.68) between SCORAD and IGA classes was noted for the following SCORAD categories: <12 (clear/almost clear); 12–25 (mild); and ≥25 (moderate/severe). PO‐SCORAD area under the curve over 8 weeks was significantly greater than that of SCORAD (p = 0.0002), giving a better estimate of disease severity between visits. Patients with a flare within the next 7 days had significantly higher PO‐SCORAD scores 7 days before the flare (p < 0.0001). Moderate erythema was the most significant flare predictor (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

PO‐SCORAD is robust and reliable and appears to warrant far greater utility in routine clinical practice than other scores. PO‐SCORAD, used twice‐weekly, may improve the management of patients with AD.
Sharks checking in to the sponge hotel: First internal use of sponges of the genus Agelas and family Irciniidae by banded sand catsharks Atelomycterus fasciatus
Authors: O'Neill Helen L. , White William T. , Pogonoski John J. , Alvarez Belinda , Gomez Oliver , Keesing John K.
Published: September 2023

Trawl surveys within and surrounding two northwestern Australian marine parks revealed banded sand catsharks Atelomycterus fasciatus (family Atelomycteridae) taking refuge within large sponges of the family Irciniidae (Demospongiae: Dictyoceratida) and the genus Agelas (Demospongiae: Agelasida: Agelasidae). Five sponges contained a total of 57 A. fasciatus, comprising both sexes and both immature and mature individuals ranging from 102 to 390 mm total length (TL). In the same surveys, only five A. fasciatus were captured unassociated with sponges, suggesting that sponges are an important microhabitat for A. fasciatus and may provide a daytime refuge from predators. A southerly range extension is also reported for this species.
Brief report comparing the Scale of Emotional Development – Short (SED‐S) with other scales for emotional development
Authors: Sappok T. , Morisse F. , Flachsmeyer M. , Vandevelde S. , Ilic M. , Barrett B. F.
Published: September 2023

Background

Different instruments were devised for assessing emotional development (ED) level in persons with an intellectual disability (ID), that is, the Scale of Emotional Development – Short (SED‐S), the Scheme for Appraisal of Emotional Development (SAED), the Scale for Emotional Development – Second Revision (SED‐R2) and the Schaal voor Emotionele Ontwikkeling – Lukas (SEO‐Lukas). The aim of this study was to compare the level of emotional functioning as assessed with the SED‐S with the SAED, SED‐R2 and SEO‐Lukas.

Methods

Emotional development was measured in adults with ID with the SED‐S (N = 186) and the SAED (n = 85), the SED‐R2 (n = 50) and the SEO‐Lukas (n = 51). Correlation analysis and Cohen's kappas were calculated between the SED‐S and the three respective scales. Internal consistencies (Cronbach's alpha) of the four scales were determined.

Results

The SED‐S results correlated most with the SEO‐Lukas (γ = 1; кω = 0.936) followed by the SAED (γ = 0.809; кω = 0.343) and least by the SED‐R2 (γ = 0.665; кω = 0.182). The stage of ED assessed with the SED‐S was lower than the ED results measured with the SAED, but higher than with the SED‐R2 and most similar to the SEO‐Lukas. Cronbach's alphas were high, ranging from 0.853 to 0.975.

Conclusions

Given the respective differences between the scales, the SED‐S may equalise the results as compared with previous versions.
School Nutrition Environment and Services: Policies and Practices That Promote Healthy Eating Among K‐12 Students
Authors: Merlo Caitlin , Smarsh Brianna L. , Xiao Xiangxue
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Changes to policies at the federal, state, and local levels over the last decade have influenced the school nutrition environment and services.

METHODS

This systematic review includes an analysis of individual research articles and government reports published from 2010 to 2021 that examine interventions to improve the school nutrition environment and services and increase the availability, selection, and consumption of healthier foods and beverages in K‐12 schools in the United States.

RESULTS

Nutrition standards for school meals and food outside of meals improved access to healthier options in school. Providing school nutrition professionals with professional development, improving the palatability of school meals, offering taste tests, pre‐slicing fruit, providing recess before lunch, offering incentives for trying healthier options, and providing access to drinking water resulted in increased selection and consumption of healthier items. There were inconclusive or mixed findings for some intervention strategies including adequate seat time for meals.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite demonstrated improvements to school meal programs and competitive foods, more work is needed to change the selection and consumption of healthier options among K‐12 students. Schools can use multiple interventions to improve the school nutrition environment and services and help students adopt food and beverage choices that support health.