bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress‐induced activation of the proline biosynthetic pathway in Bacillus subtilis: a population‐wide and single‐cell study of the osmotically controlled proHJ promoter
Authors: Morawska Luiza P. , Detert Oude Weme Ruud G. J. , Frenzel Elrike , Dirkzwager Maarten , Hoffmann Tamara , Bremer Erhard , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: May 2022

Bacillus subtilis, in its natural habitat, is regularly exposed to rapid changes in the osmolarity of its surrounding. As its primary survival strategy, it accumulates large amounts of the compatible solute proline by activating the de novo proline biosynthesis pathway and exploiting the glutamate pools. This osmotically‐induced biosynthesis requires activation of a SigA‐type promoter that drives the expression of the proHJ operon. Population‐wide studies have shown that the activity of the proHJ promoter correlates with the increased osmotic pressure of the environment. Therefore, the activation of the proHJ transcription should be an adequate measure of the adaptation to osmotic stress through proline synthesis in the absence of other osmoprotectants. In this study, we investigate the kinetics of the proHJ promoter activation and the early adaptation to mild osmotic upshift at the single‐cell level. Under these conditions, we observed a switching point and heterogeneous proline biosynthesis gene expression, where the subpopulation of cells showing active proHJ transcription is able to continuously divide, and those unresponsive to osmotic stress remain dormant. Additionally, we demonstrate that bactericidal antibiotics significantly upregulate proHJ transcription in the absence of externally imposed osmotic pressure, suggesting that the osmotically‐controlled proline biosynthesis pathway is also involved in the antibiotic‐mediated stress response.
Seed dispersal phenology of encroaching woody species in the Free State National Botanical Garden, South Africa
Authors: Vukeya Loyd R. , Mokotjomela Thabiso M. , Malebo Ntsoaki J. , Saheed Oke
Published: May 2022

We investigated seed dispersal phenology of bird‐dispersed and encroaching woody species in the Free State National Botanical Garden (FSNBG), South Africa, over a 12‐month period. Results from defecated seeds' collection in 17 roosting sites show that a total of 22,161 seeds belonging to 14 woody species under 11 families were eaten and dispersed by foraging birds with seeds of six species being frequently dispersed. The native species had a larger number of dispersed bird‐ingested seeds than the alien and invasive species. Seeds' collection suggested that out of five fruiting species, birds mostly preferred the red (Ziziphus mucronata, Ehretia rigida and Viscum rotundifolium) and black fruits (Olea europaea subsp. africana and Diospyros lyciodes). Ziziphus mucronata and O. subsp. africana seeds were dispersed in significantly higher numbers between March and July (mean ± SE: 47.1 ± 11.6; 51.4 ± 9.0), while Searsia lancea and E. rigida were mostly dispersed between August and December (221.6 ± 74.1; 373.6 ± 91.5)—a dichotomy that could minimise competition for dispersal agents while sustaining the resident bird species. Over 480 h of camera trapping, 22 bird species were captured, of which seven displayed high foraging frequency, and were resident in behaviour, while six species were migratory and colonial avian frugivores, including two alien bird species. We conclude that the reported bush encroachment is a likely result of high propagule pressure by resident frugivorous birds and colonial wintering birds in FSNBG, together with low fruit diversity in the grassland habitat.
Ghrelin is associated with anti‐mullerian hormone levels in Chinese systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lv Tingting , Ma Junxian , Liu Jie , Ren Ying , Li Yu , Feng Yuan , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2022

Problem

Ghrelin has been thought of as a potential link between energy homeostasis and fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate levels of ghrelin in obese and non‐obese systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, and to reveal a possible association between ghrelin and Anti‐Mullerian hormone (AMH) in SLE patients.

Method of Study

One hundred SLE patients (50 obese and 50 non‐obese subjects) at childbearing age and 100 age‐matched healthy controls (50 obese and 50 non‐obese subjects) were included. Ghrelin and leptin were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. AMH was tested through electrochemiluminescence. Demographics, clinical and laboratory indicators were obtained from medical records.

Results

Ghrelin levels were significantly lower in obese SLE patients than non‐obese SLE patients (P = .000) and obese controls (P = .002). Non‐obese SLE patients and non‐obese controls had similar ghrelin levels. Ghrelin levels were correlated positively with AMH (r = .2683, P = .0070) in SLE patients. And ghrelin were negatively associated with leptin (r = ‐.1969, P = .0496) and BMI (r = ‐ .2401, P = .0161).

Conclusion

Our results provide evidence for a potential relationship between ghrelin and AMH in SLE patients, indicating that ghrelin may play a part in energy homeostasis and ovarian damage of SLE patients.
Job crafting and employee life satisfaction: A resource–gain–development perspective
Authors: Shi Yanwei , She Zhuang , Zhou Zhiqing E. , Zhang Nan , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2022

Job crafting has been shown to be associated with multiple positive work‐related outcomes. However, whether and how it affects nonwork‐related outcomes has been less examined. Grounded on the resource–gain–development perspective and conservation of resources theory, the present study investigated the effects of job crafting on employee life satisfaction via work–nonwork facilitation and work–nonwork conflict. Further, the present study examined the moderating roles of workload on these relationships. We collected two waves of data with a 1‐month lag from 481 fulltime Chinese employees. The results of regression analyses revealed that job crafting was positively related to employee life satisfaction through higher work–nonwork facilitation and lower work–nonwork conflict. In addition, these indirect effects were stronger for employees with higher workload than those with lower workload. The results extend job crafting research by examining the effects of job crafting on employee life satisfaction and have clear applied value for employers who have high workload.
Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in women receiving calcineurin inhibitors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Akiyama Shintaro , Hamdeh Shadi , Murakami Naoka , Cotter Thomas G. , Suzuki Hideo , Tsuchiya Kiichiro
Published: May 2022

Aims: Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are often used for solid organ transplantation recipients or patients with immune‐mediated diseases. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to understand how CNIs affect pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.

Methods: Electronic databases were searched for observational studies assessing pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in CNI‐treated patients. The pooled rate of each outcome was determined. Metaregression was conducted to identify contributing factors to the outcomes.

Results: We analysed 98 studies with a total of 5355 pregnancies in 4450 CNI‐treated patients. The pooled rates of live birth and spontaneous abortion were 82.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 76.7–86.4%) and 11.7% (95% CI 8.7–15.5%), respectively. The rates of preterm delivery (33.2%, 95% CI 29.2–37.5%), low birth weight (35.8%, 95% CI 27.7–44.8%) and preeclampsia (13.5%, 95% CI 9.4–19.2%) were 3–4 times higher than the rates of general population. Nearly half of the CNI‐treated patients required caesarean delivery (43.5%, 95% CI 36.9–50.3%). The rates of stillbirth, neonatal and maternal death were 4.2% (95% CI 2.8–6.2%), 2.9% (95% CI 1.8–4.8%) and 2.3% (95% CI 1.3–4.1%), respectively. Metaregression showed that preeclampsia was significantly associated with the risks of preterm delivery and low birth weight. Older maternal age, prepregnancy hypertension and cyclosporine use increased the risk of preeclampsia.

Conclusion: Given the higher mortalities in CNI‐treated patients and their children than the general averages, their pregnancy is considered high risk. The risks of preterm delivery and low birth weight were primarily attributed to preeclampsia. Since prepregnancy hypertension increased its risk, an appropriate preconception blood pressure management may improve their outcomes.
From boutique to mainstream: Upscaling wildlife‐friendly farming through consumer premiums
Authors: Herring Matthew W. , Garnett Stephen T. , Zander Kerstin K.
Published: May 2022

Wildlife‐friendly produce shows promise in addressing the disconnect between consumers' choices and the loss of biodiversity from agriculture. However, the scope of programs and their contribution to conservation remain limited. An improved understanding of specific markets, combined with auspicious scenarios, could address this. In Australia's Murray‐Darling Basin, rice fields support the largest known breeding population of the Australasian bittern, a globally endangered waterbird. We surveyed 1478 Australian consumers about their values for “bittern‐friendly” rice. To help support successful bittern breeding, consumers' mean willingness‐to‐pay for a 1‐kg product, normally $3.00, was $4.12—a premium of 37%—while the inferred valuation for their nearest neighbor was $3.79, a 26% premium. In a choice experiment, rice directly sourced from bittern‐friendly rice growers attracted the highest premium, approaching 200%, but conventional rice with indirect support for bittern‐friendly growers was also highly valued. Consumers valued endorsement and certification labels from all organizations more than individual ones, and would pay additional premiums for reduced pesticide use or organic products. Feasibility of broad‐scale, consumer‐funded incentive programs is emphasized by an engaging narrative and a supportive, cohesive rice industry. Similar opportunities likely exist where consumers can be central to endangered species conservation, expanding wildlife‐friendly farming coverage.
Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for treatment of diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation
Authors: Lemke Adley , Brokmeier Hannah M. , Leung Sarah B. , Mara Kristin C. , Mour Girish K. , Wadei Hani M. , Hill Jennifer M. , Stegall Mark , Kudva Yogish C. , Shah Pankaj , Kukla Aleksandra
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus in kidney transplant recipients is a risk factor for cardiovascular events and premature death. Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are increasingly used in nontransplant populations to improve diabetes control and cardiovascular and renal benefits. Limited literature exists regarding the safety and efficacy of these agents in renal transplant recipients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all kidney transplant recipients within our health system who were prescribed a SGLT2i after transplantation for diabetes. The safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of SGLT2i were analyzed.

Results

Thirty‐nine kidney transplant recipients were initiated on SGLT2i therapy, twenty‐seven of which remained on therapy for at least 1 year. Ten (25%) patients experienced an adverse event while on a SGLT2i, with urinary tract infections (UTI) being the most common. Seventeen patients (43%) discontinued the SGLT2i at the time of chart review, most commonly due to cost and kidney function decline. The median [IQR] hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) at SGLT2i initiation of 8.4% [7.8–9.2] decreased to 7.5% [6.8–8.0%] after 3 months and 7.5% [6.5–7.9] after 12 months. No meaningful change in kidney function or tacrolimus exposure was observed.

Conclusion

SGLT2i may be a safe and effective treatment for diabetes in kidney transplant recipients. Cost is a barrier to SGLT2i therapy, and UTIs were the most frequently encountered adverse events in this cohort. More studies are needed to understand the safety profile and determine the effect of SGLT2i on diabetes‐related comorbidities among kidney transplant recipients.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic equivalence of Biocon's biosimilar Insulin 70/30 with US‐licensed HUMULIN® 70/30 formulation in healthy subjects: Results from the RHINE‐3 (Recombinant Human INsulinEquivalence‐3) study
Authors: Plum‐Mörschel Leona , Klein Oliver , Singh Gursharan , Murugesan Sundara Moorthi Nainar , Marwah Ashwani , Sharma Nirant , Panda Jayanti , Loganathan Subramanian , Lakshmi Gopu Chandrasekharan , Athalye Sandeep N.
Published: May 2022

Aim

To establish the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) equivalence of proposed biosimilar insulin 70/30 (Biocon's Insulin‐70/30) and HUMULIN® 70/30 (HUMULIN‐70/30; Eli Lilly and Company, IN).

Materials and Methods

In this phase 1, automated euglycaemic glucose clamp study, 78 healthy subjects were randomized (1:1) to receive a single dose of 0.4 IU/kg of Biocon's Insulin‐70/30 and HUMULIN‐70/30. Plasma insulin concentrations and glucose infusion rates (GIRs) were assessed over 24 hours. Primary PK endpoints were area under the insulin concentration‐time curve from 0 to 24 hours ‐ AUCins.0−24h ‐ and maximum insulin concentration ‐ Cins.max. Primary PD endpoints were area under the GIR time curve from 0 to 24 hours ‐ AUCGIR.0−24h ‐ and maximum GIR ‐ GIRmax.

Results

Equivalence was shown between Biocon's Insulin‐70/30 and HUMULIN‐70/30 for the primary PK/PD endpoints. The 90% confidence intervals of the treatment ratios were entirely within the acceptance range of 80.00%‐125.00%. The secondary PK/PD profiles were also comparable. There were no clinically relevant differences in the safety profiles of the two treatments and no serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

PK/PD equivalence was demonstrated between Biocon's Insulin‐70/30 and HUMULIN‐70/30 in healthy subjects. Treatment with Biocon's Insulin‐70/30 and HUMULIN‐70/30 was well tolerated.
Colletotrichum (Ascomycota, Glomerellaceae) associated with native woody plants in natural ecosystems: What do we know?
Authors: Zapata Mario , Palfner Götz
Published: May 2022

The genus Colletotrichum comprises an important and diverse group of endophytes, saprophytes and plant pathogens, many of which cause a syndrome known as anthracnose, on a wide range of hosts, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. Since most of the accumulated research on the genus focuses on cultivated plants of commercial interest, the aim of this review was to explore how the genus has been studied in native woody plants in natural ecosystems. Following the PRISMA protocol for systematic reviews, we identified 52 original scientific publications that recorded Colletotrichum species associated with native woody hosts in natural environments in a taxonomic, ecological or phytosanitary context. Here, we conclude that research in natural ecosystems is scarce, mostly carried out in tropical areas and mainly focused on aspects of community ecology. We also observed the cosmopolitan nature of the genus, associated with many hosts, mostly as endophytes. The species most frequently recorded were in the ‘gloeosporioides’ complex, although due to the limitations in identification methods used in the studies, a large proportion of records could not be identified or verified at the species level.
Understanding the joint impacts of soil architecture and microbial dynamics on soil functions: Insights derived from microscale models
Authors: Pot Valérie , Portell Xavier , Otten Wilfred , Garnier Patricia , Monga Olivier , Baveye Philippe C.
Published: May 2022

Over the last decades, a new generation of microscale models has been developed to simulate soil microbial activity. An earlier article (Pot et al., 2021) presented a detailed review of the description of soil architecture and microbial dynamics in these models. In the present article, we summarise the main results obtained by these models according to six model outputs: growth and spatial organisation of microbial colonies, soil hydraulic conductivity, coexistence and trophic interactions of microorganisms, temporal dynamics of the amount of solid and dissolved organic matter in soil and, microbial production of CO2. For each of these outputs, we draw particular attention to the respective roles of soil architecture and microbial dynamics, and we report how microscale models allow for disentangling and quantifying them. We finally discuss limitations and future directions of microscale models in combination with the on‐going development of high‐performance imaging tools revealing the spatial heterogeneity of the actors of soil microbial activity.

Highlights

We review the insights on soil functions derived from microscale models of soil microbial processes.

Microscale models disentangle the complex interactions between soil architecture and microbial dynamics.

Spatial accessibility of resources to microbes, growth and ecological interactions are key factors in soil functions.

Translation of knowledge of interactions at the microscopic scale into larger scales is still in its infancy.
The characteristics of intracranial plaques of unilateral, anterior circulation embolic stroke of undetermined source: An analysis of different subtypes based on high‐resolution imaging
Authors: Shang Zi‐Yang , Tao Lin , Li Xiao‐Qiu , Yang Ben‐Qiang , Ntaios George , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: May 2022

Background and purpose

The aim was to investigate the characteristics of non‐stenotic intracranial plaque (NSIP) in embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) subtypes by high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

Consecutive patients with ESUS who were mandatory for high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging were retrospectively enrolled. Based on the location and arterial supply of the infarct, the ESUS were categorized into three types: cortical ESUS, subcortical ESUS and mixed ESUS. The NSIP parameters including plaque location, morphology (plaque distribution, remodeling index and plaque burden) and composition (thick fibrous cap, discontinuity of plaque surface, intraplaque hemorrhage and complicated plaque) were evaluated amongst the subtypes.

Results

Of 243 patients, there were 87 (35.8%) cortical ESUS, 127 (52.3%) subcortical ESUS and 29 (11.9%) mixed ESUS. Significant differences were found in plaque location (p < 0.001), plaque quadrant (p < 0.001), remodeling index (p < 0.001), plaque burden (p < 0.001), discontinuity of plaque surface (p < 0.001), intraplaque hemorrhage (p = 0.001) and complicated plaque (p < 0.001) of ipsilateral NISP amongst the different ESUS subtypes, except for fibrous cap (p = 0.135). However, no differences were found amongst contralateral NISP. In addition, the clinical characteristics of the differences between ESUS subtypes were striking, including age (p = 0.004), initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (p < 0.001), coronary artery disease (p = 0.039), serum urea (p = 0.011) and creatinine (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

This is the first report of significantly heterogeneous characteristics of ipsilateral NSIP and clinical findings amongst ESUS subtypes, which may suggest their different underlying mechanisms.
A real‐world evidence study of nabiximols in multiple sclerosis patients with resistant spasticity: Analysis in relation to the newly described ‘spasticity‐plus syndrome’
Authors: Patti Francesco , Chisari Clara Grazia , Fernández Óscar , Sarroca Jorge , Ferrer‐Picón Elena , Hernández Vicente Francisco , Vila Silván Carlos
Published: May 2022

Background and purpose

Nabiximols is a therapeutic option for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) spasticity whose symptoms are poorly controlled by conventional oral first‐line medications. This study aimed to assess the relationship between changes in spasticity severity (measured on the 0–10 numeric rating scale [NRS]) and the presence of associated symptoms in patients treated with nabiximols, and to investigate the presence of the newly described ‘spasticity‐plus syndrome’.

Methods

We analyzed real‐world data from the Italian Medicines Agency e‐Registry on 1138 patients with MS spasticity who began treatment with nabiximols. Evaluation time points were baseline, 4 weeks, and 3, 6, 12 and 18 months after treatment start.

Results

Common symptoms associated with MS spasticity in this cohort were pain (38.4% at baseline), sleep disturbances (32.7%), and spasms/cramps (28.5%). Pain was frequently clustered with sleep disturbances (57.2% of pain cases) and spasms/cramps (43.9%). Approximately one‐third of patients with data at all evaluation time points maintained treatment at 18 months. Nabiximols reduced the baseline mean spasticity 0–10 NRS score by 24.6% at Week 4, and by 33.9% at 18 months in treatment continuers. Nabiximols resolved a range of MS spasticity‐associated symptoms at Week 4, and after 18 months in treatment continuers.

Conclusion

This real‐world analysis supports the concept of a spasticity‐plus syndrome and suggests that nabiximols can favorably impact a range of spasticity‐associated symptoms.
Elderly consumers in marketing research: A systematic literature review and directions for future research
Authors: Berg Hanna , Liljedal Karina T.
Published: May 2022

This paper reports a theme‐based structured systematic literature review of the growing body of marketing research about elderly consumers. By synthesizing, explicating, and relating this research, the paper offers a structured view of the past and present state of the research field and integrates it into a theoretical framework. The literature review was based on 209 marketing research articles published from the early 1970s to 2021. It identified 13 research topics, which were subsequently grouped into three themes: (1) describing and defining the elderly market segment, (2) age changes and the elderly consumer, and (3) marketing responses of elderly consumers. Based on these themes, the paper presents a theoretical framework and provides directions for future marketing research on elderly consumers. The systematic literature review thus provides clarity to a wide and interdisciplinary research field, facilitating its continued growth.
The Hegemonic Politics of ‘Strategic Autonomy’ and ‘Resilience’: COVID‐19 and the Dislocation of EU Trade Policy
Authors: Jacobs Thomas , Gheyle Niels , De Ville Ferdi , Orbie Jan
Published: May 2022

The outbreak of COVID‐19 in March 2020 led to substantial upheaval in the EU's trade policy. Over the course of a year, EU Trade Policy as a field witnessed the launch of hitherto unthinkable ideas; the proliferation of a range of new buzzwords such as resilience, autonomy, and reshoring; and ultimately the arrival of a new consensus in the Trade Policy Review of February 2021. This article uses a discourse‐theoretical approach (PDT) to retrace the political process that unfolded throughout this year, from the start of the COVID‐19 crisis, to a fundamental dislocation of EU trade politics, and ultimately to the consolidation of a partial, temporary, and frail new hegemony within the policy field. Our goal is to explain the trajectory and the dynamics of this process by studying the discourses, the framings, and the political strategies that comprised the hegemonic struggle underlying it.
Monocot diet sources drive diversity of gut bacterial communities in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae
Authors: Ugwu Juliana Amaka , Wenzi Ren , Asiegbu Fred O.
Published: May 2022

Microbiome research is currently gaining tremendous interest on the impact of diets and environment to influence life traits of several hosts. Full understanding of the insect ecology and characterization of gut microbial community including their natural enemies is vital for development of novel insect pest management strategies. This study examined the gut bacterial communities of Fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda reared in the laboratory with three monocot plant diets (Sugarcane [M1], maize [M2] and onion [M3]) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The study revealed variations in the structure and community of the gut bacterial biota of FAW larvae reared with three monocot plants. Diet sources greatly altered the structure of the gut bacterial community. Three alpha diversity indices (observed species richness Chao1 and ACE) showed significant differences among the various diet groups. The principal component analysis revealed a moderate distinction in bacterial communities of the FAW larvae reared with the three monocot plants. Higher numbers of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were observed in sugarcane diet (M1). The bacterial communities of all the larvae groups were dominated by phylum Firmicutes. A redundancy analysis (RDA) indicated that neutral detergent fibre (NDF) (p < 0.0005) was the most significant factors influencing the community distribution of gut bacteria of FAW larvae. Functional Annotation of Prokaryotic Taxa (FAPROTAX) analysis predicted that chemoheterotrophy, fermentation, aerobic chemoheterotrophy and aromatic compound degradation were the prominent putative functions of FAW larvae gut bacteria communities. Chemoheterotrophy was the most dominant putative functions predicted and was higher in sugarcane diet. Furthermore, the complexity of the network structure was higher in M1 while the modularity was higher in maize diet. The different monocot diets had a considerable impact on bacterial composition in the gut of Fall armyworm larvae and their ecological and functional relevance are discussed.
Surgical management of facial congenital melanocytic nevi: Experiences and outcomes at an academic center
Authors: Xie Yue , Chen Qiang , Li Tianwu , Ding Xionghui , Xiao Jun , Liu Yan , Qiu Lin
Published: May 2022

Background

Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN), benign pigmented birthmarks caused by the mutation of melanocytic cells during embryofetal development, can cause aesthetic problem when it is located on the face. Surgical managements of facial CMN are required by both pediatric patients and their parents. Surgical management, including excision or staged excision, skin grafting, dermabrasion, tissue expansion or multiple re‐expansion combined with flaps transplantation, have been reported previously. However, a systematical report about facial CMN management is still scarce.

Objective

Herein, we have reviewed our serious of patients with facial CMN, noting their size, location, and histological examination, summarizing the surgical relation behind reconstructive and cosmetic treatment, and proposing a newly classification for facial CMN among pediatric patients, hoping to share a useful surgical algorithm for these lesions on this specific part.

Conclusion

Proper surgical strategy should be made based on the size and location of the nevi and the adjacent relationship between the location and relaxed skin tension lines and aesthetic units. Postoperative ant‐scar treatment improves aesthetic outcomes. With our experience and surgical algorithm about facial CMN surgery, a favorable outcome can be achieved.
Self‐Preferencing in Markets with Vertically Integrated Gatekeeper Platforms*
Authors: Padilla Jorge , Perkins Joe , Piccolo Salvatore
Published: May 2022

The competitive strategies of ‘gatekeeper’ platforms are subject to enhanced scrutiny. For instance, Apple and Google are being accused of charging excessive access fees to app providers and privileging their own apps. Some have argued that such allegations make no economic sense when the platform's business model is to sell devices. In this paper, we build a model in which a gatekeeper device‐seller facing potentially saturated demand for its device has the incentive and the ability to exclude from the market third‐party suppliers of a service that consumers buy via its devices. Foreclosure is more likely if demand growth for the platform's devices is slow or negative, and can harm consumers if the device‐seller's services are inferior to those offered by the third parties.
Plasticity across levels: Relating epigenomic, transcriptomic, and phenotypic responses to osmotic stress in a halotolerant microalga
Authors: Leung Christelle , Grulois Daphné , Chevin Luis‐Miguel
Published: May 2022

Phenotypic plasticity, the ability of a given genotype to produce alternative phenotypes in response to its environment of development, is an important mechanism for coping with variable environments. While the mechanisms underlying phenotypic plasticity are diverse, their relative contributions need to be investigated quantitatively to better understand the evolvability of plasticity across biological levels. This requires relating plastic responses of the epigenome, transcriptome, and organismal phenotype, and investigating how they vary with the genotype. Here we carried out this approach for responses to osmotic stress in Dunaliella salina, a green microalga that is a model organism for salinity tolerance. We compared two strains that show markedly different demographic responses to osmotic stress, and showed that these phenotypic responses involve strain‐ and environment‐specific variation in gene expression levels, but a relative low—albeit significant—effect of strain × environment interaction. We also found an important genotype effect on the genome‐wide methylation pattern, but little contribution from environmental conditions to the latter. However, we did detect a significant marginal effect of epigenetic variation on gene expression, beyond the influence of genetic differences on epigenetic state, and we showed that hypomethylated regions are correlated with higher gene expression. Our results indicate that epigenetic mechanisms are either not involved in the rapid plastic response to environmental change in this species, or involve only few changes in trans that are sufficient to trigger concerted changes in the expression of many genes, and phenotypic responses by multiple traits.
In vivo phenotyping of the microvasculature in necrotizing enterocolitis with multicontrast optical imaging
Authors: Senarathna Janaka , Kovler Mark , Prasad Ayush , Bhargava Akanksha , Thakor Nitish V. , Sodhi Chhinder P. , Hackam David J. , Pathak Arvind P.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most prevalent gastrointestinal emergency in premature infants and is characterized by a dysfunctional gut microcirculation. Therefore, there is a dire need for in vivo methods to characterize NEC‐induced changes in the structure and function of the gut microcirculation, that is, its vascular phenotype. Since in vivo gut imaging methods are often slow and employ a single‐contrast mechanism, we developed a rapid multicontrast imaging technique and a novel analyses pipeline for phenotyping the gut microcirculation.

Methods

Using an experimental NEC model, we acquired in vivo images of the gut microvasculature and blood flow over a 5000 × 7000 μm2 field of view at 5 μm resolution via the following two endogenous contrast mechanisms: intrinsic optical signals and laser speckles. Next, we transformed intestinal images into rectilinear “flat maps,” and delineated 1A/V gut microvessels and their perfusion territories as “intestinal vascular units” (IVUs). Employing IVUs, we quantified and visualized NEC‐induced changes to the gut vascular phenotype.

Results

In vivo imaging required 60–100 s per animal. Relative to the healthy gut, NEC intestines showed a significant overall decrease (i.e. 64–72%) in perfusion, accompanied by vasoconstriction (i.e. 9–12%) and a reduction in perfusion entropy (19%)within sections of the vascular bed.

Conclusions

Multicontrast imaging coupled with IVU‐based in vivo vascular phenotyping is a powerful new tool for elucidating NEC pathogenesis.
Towards a more precise classification of esophageal motility disorders in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Marabotto Elisa , Savarino Vincenzo , Savarino Edoardo
Published: May 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic and generalized disease affecting the connective tissue of the skin and many internal organs, in particular the gastrointestinal tract. The esophagus is involved in up to 80% of the cases and represents a major cause of serious morbidities that deeply impact on the quality of life and survival of patients. Indeed, the presence of esophageal dysfunction is a good prognostic indicator in SSc, primarily due to its impact on pulmonary disease. Thus, the detection of esophageal motility alterations plays a critical role to prevent the development of both esophageal and pulmonary complications and to improve the survival of these patients. Currently, this diagnostic work‐up has been limited to the use of esophageal manometry, which is considered the gold standard for the evaluation of motor physiology and pathophysiology of this organ in different clinical situations. However, in recent years, new equipments such as high‐resolution (−impedance) manometry and functional luminal imaging probe have been developed and used in many esophageal clinical settings, including SSc. In this mini‐review, we summarize current evidence regarding esophageal dysmotility, in the light of new data on secondary peristalsis published in this issue of the journal.
Different patterns of gene evolution underpin water‐related innovations in land plants
Authors: Fürst‐Jansen Janine M. R. , de Vries Sophie , Irisarri Iker
Published: May 2022

This article is a Commentary on Bowles et al. (2022), 235: 732–742.
Acquisition of a complex root microbiome reshapes the transcriptomes of rice plants
Authors: Santos‐Medellín Christian , Edwards Joseph , Nguyen Bao , Sundaresan Venkatesan
Published: May 2022

Soil microorganisms can colonize plant roots and assemble in communities engaged in symbiotic relationships with their host. Though the compositional dynamics of root‐associated microbiomes have been extensively studied, the host transcriptional response to these communities is poorly understood.

Here, we developed an experimental system by which rice plants grown under axenic conditions can acquire a defined endosphere microbiome. Using this setup, we performed a cross‐sectional characterization of plant transcriptomes in the presence or absence of a complex microbial community. To account for compositional variation, plants were inoculated with soil‐derived microbiomes harvested from three distinct agricultural sites.

Soil microbiomes triggered a major shift in the transcriptional profiles of rice plants that included the downregulation of one‐third to one‐fourth of the families of leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases and nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat receptors expressed in roots. Though the expression of several genes was consistent across all soil sources, a large fraction of this response was differentially impacted by soil type.

These results demonstrate the role of root microbiomes in sculpting the transcriptomes of host plants and highlight the potential involvement of the two main receptor families of the plant immune system in the recruitment and maintenance of an endosphere microbiome.
The forgotten role of absorption in music reward
Authors: Cardona Gemma , Ferreri Laura , Lorenzo‐Seva Urbano , Russo Frank A. , Rodriguez‐Fornells Antoni
Published: May 2022

Interindividual differences in music‐related reward have been characterized as involving five main facets: musical seeking, emotion evocation, mood regulation, social reward, and sensory‐motor. An interesting concept related to how humans decode music as a rewarding experience is music transcendence or absorption (i.e., music‐driven states of complete immersion, including momentary loss of self‐consciousness or even time‐space disorientation). Here, we investigated the relation between previously characterized facets of music reward and individual differences in music absorption. A first sample of participants (N = 370) completed both the Barcelona Music Reward Questionnaire (BMRQ) and the Absorption in Music Scale (AIMS). Results showed that both constructs were highly interrelated (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), indicating that higher music reward sensitivity is associated with a greater tendency to music‐related absorption states. In addition, four items from the AIMS were identified as suitable to be added to an extended version of the BMRQ (eBMRQ). A second sample (N = 550) completed the eBMRQ for a validation study. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses on the whole sample (N = 920) showed the reliable psychometric properties of the eBMRQ and suggested that taking into account an absorption facet could contribute to a better characterization of individual differences in the sensitivity to experience music‐related reward and pleasure.
Efficacy of injectable platelet‐rich fibrin in the treatment of symptomatic oral lichen planus
Authors: Al‐Hallak Noor , Hamadah Omar , Mouhamad Manal , Kujan Omar
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The use of autologous platelet concentrates has shown growing evidence as a promising therapy. We conducted a split‐mouth study to evaluate the effectiveness of injectable platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) compared with triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in the treatment of oral lichen planus (OLP).

Materials and methods

This split‐mouth randomized trial included 12 patients with symptomatic, bilateral OLP lesions. The participants were randomly allocated to receive a 1‐ml intralesional PRF injection on one side of the buccal mucosa and a 0.5‐ml TA injection on the counterpart side. The application was performed once a week for 4 weeks. The outcomes were measured using a visual analog scale score, REU score, and lesion areas.

Results

Both injectable TA and PRF were effective in the management of oral lichen planus. After 4 weeks of treatment, there was an average reduction in the VAS score (68.5% i‐PRF, 91% TA) and an average reduction in the REU score (74% i‐PRF, 91% TA). There were no statistically significant differences between the two treatment methods (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Intralesional injection with TA showed more effectiveness than i‐PRF in the management of OPL lesions. Although, i‐PRF cannot be considered a first‐line treatment option, it showed promising alternative therapy choice with no side effects.
Citizen participation matters. Bureaucratic discretion matters more
Authors: Young Sarah L. , Tanner James
Published: May 2022

New Public Governance theory increases citizen participation and expands bureaucrats' roles in the work of government. Citizen participation creates new mechanisms for citizens to influence the policy process. Bureaucrats' expanded roles allow for broader bureaucratic discretion over policy implementation. When citizens' and bureaucrats' views on public management decisions collide, whose views prevail? Do citizen volunteers or bureaucrats have greater influence over public decisions? We answer this question by studying the U.S. Department of Energy's initiative to engage citizens in environmental clean‐up decisions. We assess 10 years of meeting records and administrative decisions using a three‐step, mixed‐method analysis to identify, weigh, and test the influence of citizen participation and bureaucratic discretion. The results indicate that while citizen participation matters, bureaucratic discretion has a more significant influence over administrative decision‐making. The findings expose holes in New Public Governance theory, which has implications for democracy and demands deeper thought into structuring citizen participation.
OsUGE3‐mediated cell wall polysaccharides accumulation improves biomass production, mechanical strength, and salt tolerance
Authors: Tang Yijun , Wang Meihan , Cao Liyu , Dang Zhengjun , Ruan Nan , Wang Ye , Huang Yingni , Wu Jiayi , Zhang Mingfei , Xu Zhengjin , Chen Wenfu , Li Fengcheng , Xu Quan
Published: May 2022

Cell walls constitute the majority of plant biomass and are essential for plant resistance to environmental stresses. It is promising to improve both plant biomass production and stress resistance simultaneously by genetic modification of cell walls. Here, we report the functions of a UDP‐galactose/glucose epimerase 3 (OsUGE3) in rice growth and salt tolerance by characterizing its overexpressing plants (OsUGE3‐OX) and loss‐of‐function mutants (uge3). The OsUGE3‐OX plants showed improvements in biomass production and mechanical strength, whereas uge3 mutants displayed growth defects. The OsUGE3 exhibits UDP‐galactose/glucose epimerase activity that provides substrates for polysaccharides polymerization, consistent with the increased biosynthesis of cellulose and hemicelluloses and strengthened walls in OsUGE3‐OX plants. Notably, the OsUGE3 is ubiquitously expressed and induced by salt treatment. The uge3 mutants were hypersensitive to salt and osmotic stresses, whereas the OsUGE3‐OX plants showed improved tolerance to salt and osmotic stresses. Moreover, OsUGE3 overexpression improves the homeostasis of Na+ and K+ and induces a higher accumulation of hemicelluloses and soluble sugars during salt stress. Our results suggest that OsUGE3 improves biomass production, mechanical strength, and salt stress tolerance by reinforcement of cell walls with polysaccharides and it could be targeted for genetic modification to improve rice growth under salt stress.
Ratings of the physical attractiveness of an interaction partner after a getting‐acquainted interaction
Authors: Sprecher Susan , Hatfield Elaine
Published: May 2022

This study examined college students' judgments of the physical attractiveness of an interaction partner after a getting‐acquainted interaction, including in comparison with other benchmarks (e.g., an experimenter rating, a self‐rating). With data combined from several past laboratory studies, we found that participants (particularly women who were interacting with another woman) overall rated their interaction partner after a brief interaction to be more attractive than three benchmarks: (1) how the partners were judged by more neutral experimenters who had less interaction with them; (2) how the partners rated themselves; and (3) the participants' own self‐ratings of physical attractiveness. Evidence was found for a prediction derived from interaction appearance theory – ratings of the quality (enjoyment) of the interaction were positively associated with ratings of the partner's physical attractiveness. We also explored whether participants' ratings of the physical attractiveness of their interaction partner were affected by factors about the participant (own physical attractiveness, relationship status) and about the context of their communication (modality, type of get‐acquainted task). Despite prior work suggesting that physical attractiveness ratings of others are malleable depending on a host of other factors, personal and contextual variables considered in this study were generally not associated with how the participants rated the physical attractiveness of their interaction partner.
A theory‐driven machine learning system for financial disinformation detection
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Du Qianzhou , Zhang Zhongju
Published: May 2022

Maliciously false information (disinformation) can influence people's beliefs and behaviors with significant social and economic implications. In this study, we examine news articles on crowd‐sourced digital platforms for financial markets. Assembling a unique dataset of financial news articles that were investigated and prosecuted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, along with the propagation data of such articles on digital platforms and the financial performance data of the focal firm, we develop a well‐justified machine learning system to detect financial disinformation published on social media platforms. Our system design is rooted in the truth‐default theory, which argues that communication context and motive, coherence, information correspondence, propagation, and sender demeanor are major constructs to assess deceptive communication. Extensive analyses are conducted to evaluate the performance and efficacy of the proposed system. We further discuss this study's theoretical implications and its practical value.
Functional Peaks-Over-Threshold Analysis
Authors: de Fondeville Raphaël , Davison Anthony C.
Published: May 2022

Peaks-over-threshold analysis using the generalised Pareto distribution is widely applied in modelling tails of univariate random variables, but much information may be lost when complex extreme events are studied using univariate results. In this paper, we extend peaks-over-threshold analysis to extremes of functional data. Threshold exceedances defined using a functional r are modelled by the generalised r-Pareto process, a functional generalisation of the generalised Pareto distribution that covers the three classical regimes for the decay of tail probabilities, and that is the only possible continuous limit for r-exceedances of a properly rescaled process. We give construction rules, simulation algorithms and inference procedures for generalised r-Pareto processes, discuss model validation and apply the new methodology to extreme European windstorms and heavy spatial rainfall.
Rural/Urban Differences: Persistence or Decline☆
Authors: Albrecht Don E.
Published: May 2022

A long line of sociological research has found that rural residents tend to be more conservative than urban residents in the U.S. on a wide range of attitudes and behaviors. Two primary arguments have been utilized to understand why these differences exist. First, rural/urban differences were thought to be largely a function of rural isolation and differences in types of employment. As rural areas have become less isolated and employment differences have diminished, rural/urban differences are thought to diminish as well. Any remaining rural/urban differences can largely be explained by social class variations. Second, differing interaction patterns in rural areas resulting from fewer people and lower population densities continue to make rural areas unique. This manuscript found strong support for the second argument that rural areas remain unique. Even when statistically controlling for race/ethnicity and social class, rural residents were much more likely to vote for Trump in the 2020 presidential election, were more likely to choose the conservative side on six controversial political issues than urban residents. These findings have important implications in understanding our deeply divided nation. The need for quality social science research to understand modern rural America is apparent.
The impact of employment protection onFDIat different stages of economic development
Authors: Ardiyono Sulistiyo K. , Patunru Arianto A.
Published: May 2022

There has been much debate on how to design employment protection regulations that balance the need to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) on the one hand and to protect workers' rights on the other hand. This study explores this ‘dilemma’, using a multi‐country dataset from 2003 to 2015 and treating hiring and firing regulation (HFR) and the other explanatory variables as endogenous. The findings indicate that flexible HFR is essential for FDI promotion in the early stages of economic development of a country, but the impact of labour market flexibility on FDI gradually decreases and eventually turns statistically insignificant with economic advancement. In other words, a flexible HFRs are more important for developing countries, but such flexibility does not have to be sustained in a ‘race to the bottom’ manner: once a country reaches higher income levels, it has more room to focus on labour standards to protect workers without compromising on the attractiveness of the country for FDI.
Seamless Line Pipe
Authors: Kiefner J. F. , Clark E.B.
Published: May 2022

The concept of seamless pipe is almost as old as that of butt-welded pipe. Whereas the latter began to be produced in practical quantities in 1824, the first successful methods for making seamless pipe appeared in 1840 and 1845.(3- 1 to 3- 3) One of these involved “piercing” a hot round billet held in a press followed by drawing or rolling to obtain the desired diameter, thickness, and length and the other involved “cupping” wherein a hot circular plate was pressed successively deeper by pairs of conical dies until a closed-end cylinder was formed. The development of the Mannesmann rotary piercing process in 1886 marked the beginning of the most-widely used (even today) process for producing large quantities of seamless line pipe.