bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects of astragalin
isolated from Aster scaber
Authors: Kim Eun-Hae , Lee Sanghyun , Chung Mi Ja
Published: January 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of
astragalin (Ast) isolated from Aster scaber in
lipopolyssacharide (LPS)-stimulated Raw264.7 macrophage cells, and the
neuroprotective effect of Ast against nitric oxide-induced neuronal cell death.
The ethyl acetate fraction of Aster scaber had the highest 2,2-
diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity among the ethanol
extracts and the five fractions. Cells were pretreated with Ast isolated from
the ethyl acetate fraction of Aster scaber and further cultured
for an appropriate time after LPS addition. Ast reduced the concentration of
nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and
interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the Raw264.7 cells activated by the LPS. These
inhibitory effects were attributed to the suppression of the mitogen-activated
protein kinase (MAPK) pathways by Ast. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was used as
the NO donor. Ast increased the survival of human SK-N-SH neuroblastoma cells
exposed to toxic conditions due to the excessive production of NO. The effect of
Ast was observed in co-cultured cells (SK-N-SH cells and microglia). Treatment
of SK-N-SH cells with Ast showed protective effects against SNP-induced NO
production in microglia. These results suggest that Ast could act as a potential
neuroprotective agent via its anti-inflammatory effects.
Occurrence of deoxynivalenol and nivalenol in Korean ginger and the
optimal storage conditions for reducing mycotoxins
Authors: Lee Mi Jeong , Lim Soo Bin , Choi Jung-Hye , Kim Jeomsoon , Lee Theresa , Jang Ja Yeong
Published: January 2022

Mycotoxin-contaminated food is an important public health issue. The aims of this
study were to monitor mycotoxin contamination in Korean ginger and to
investigate storage conditions to reduce mycotoxins. A total of 44 ginger
samples (27 gingers and 17 ginger powders) were analyzed for contamination with
aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, ochratoxin
A, deoxynivalenol (DON), nivalenol (NIV), and zearalenone (ZEA). Mycotoxin
levels were quantified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography after
immunoaffinity column clean-up. At least one mycotoxin was present in 37.03% of
the ginger samples (10/27) and 41.17% of the ginger powder samples (7/17). NIV
was the most frequently detected mycotoxin in the ginger samples (37.03%,
24.74-263.40 μg/kg), while DON (35.29%, 17.62-401.58 μg/kg), NIV
(29.41%, 73.24-439.65 μg/kg), and ZEA (23.53%, 5.80-97.84 μg/kg)
were frequently detected in the ginger powder samples. Aflatoxins and ochratoxin
A were not detected in most of the ginger samples. In addition, two or more
mycotoxins were found in ginger (25.93%) and ginger powder samples (29.41%). In
the storage experiment, DON and NIV levels in ginger were significantly lower
under 13°C and 96% relative humidity than under the other conditions.
This is the first report of DON and NIV in Korean ginger samples and the
co-occurrence of Fusarium toxins.
Effects of LED treatment and plasma-activated water on the growth and quality of Panax ginseng sprouts during hydroponic cultivation
Authors: Jeon Seo-Young , Sung Jung-Min , Roh Jong-Hyeok , Kwon Ki-Hyun
Published: January 2022

Panax ginseng sprouts have important medicinal properties and thus the optimization of growth conditions is an important research goal. The effects of LED treatment and plasma-activated water on the growth and quality of Panax ginseng sprouts (PGS) in hydroponic cultivation were evaluated. Using 1-year-old ginseng plants, light was applied 9-18 h for the CGS, TGS1, TGS2, and TGS3 groups and 24 h for TGS4. Plasma-activated water was used in all groups except CGS and TGS1, and fermentation nutrient solutions (NO) were added to TGS1, TGS3, and TGS4. The TGS4 group had a high total length and initial length on days 7 and 14. At 21 days, the growth of TGS1, TGS3, and TGS4 with NO nutrient solutions increased. The total decay rate (%) was low (4.24-4.65%) for TGS1, TGS2, and TGS3. Although the chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll contents were significantly higher in TGS4 than in other groups (p<0.05), TGS3 tended to show higher carotenoid levels. Therefore, for the hydroponic cultivation of PGS, nutrient solutions and plasma-activated water influence growth, and the LED treatment duration influences growth and functional substances. During hydroponic cultivation, TGS4 conditions resulted in high growth, saponin contents, and radical scavenging activity, with excellent functionality. However, considering the high rate of root decay, further studies of the effects of different wavelengths and treatment durations (light and dark cycles) on growth are needed.
Maclura tricuspidata fruit vinegar improves the
inflammation and insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes
Authors: Park Se-Eun , Kim Seung
Published: January 2022

Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade adipose tissue inflammation, leading
to insulin resistance. Inflammation associated with insulin resistance is an
interesting area of biomedical research and is expected to affect insulin
signaling pathways via the downregulation of glucose transporters. In the
present study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of Maclura
tricuspidata fruit vinegar (MFV) against TNF-α-induced
inflammation and insulin resistance in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Differentiated 3T3-L1
adipocytes were pretreated with MFV at various concentrations and then cultured
with TNF-α to induce insulin resistance. Then, lipid droplets,
inflammatory cytokine and glucose uptake, PPARγ and GLUT4 expression, and
IRS-1 phosphorylation were analyzed. MFV attenuated the TNF-α-induced
decrease in lipid droplets and glucose uptake and inhibited TNF-α-induced
inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, and MCP-1 production. MFV reversed the decrease in
adiponectin produced by TNF-α. Furthermore, MFV upregulated the
TNF-α-induced suppression of PPARγ and GLUT4 protein expression
and reduced the TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of IRS-1. These findings
suggest that MFV effectively ameliorates TNF-α-induced insulin
resistance; accordingly, we recommend the use of MFV for the control and
management of insulin resistance and its associated complications.
Chromosome-level genome assembly and annotation of two lineages of the ant Cataglyphis hispanica: stepping stones towards genomic studies of hybridogenesis and thermal adaptation in desert ants
Authors: Darras Hugo , De Souza Araujo Natalia , Baudry Lyam , Guiglielmoni Nadège , Lorite Pedro , Marbouty Martial , Rodriguez Fernando , Arkhipova Irina , Koszul Romain , Flot Jean-François , Aron Serge
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Cataglyphis are thermophilic ants that forage during the day when temperatures are highest and sometimes close to their critical thermal limit. Several Cataglyphis species have evolved unusual reproductive systems such as facultative queen parthenogenesis or social hybridogenesis, which have not yet been investigated in detail at the molecular level. We generated high-quality genome assemblies for two hybridogenetic lineages of the Iberian ant Cataglyphis hispanica using long-read Nanopore sequencing and exploited chromosome conformation capture (3C) sequencing to assemble contigs into 26 and 27 chromosomes, respectively. Further karyotype analyses confirm this difference in chromosome numbers between lineages; however, they also suggest it may not be fixed among lineages. We obtained transcriptomic data to assist gene annotation and built custom repeat libraries for each of the two assemblies. Comparative analyses with 19 other published ant genomes were also conducted. These new genomic resources pave the way for exploring the genetic mechanisms underlying the remarkable thermal adaptation and the molecular mechanisms associated with transitions between different genetic systems characteristic of the ant genus Cataglyphis.
Characterization of CAP1 and ECA4 adaptors participating in clathrin-mediated endocytosis
Authors: Adamowski Maciek , Matijević Ivana , Friml Jiří
Published: January 2022

Formation of endomembrane vesicles is crucial in all eukaryotic cells and relies on vesicle coats such as clathrin. Clathrin-coated vesicles form at the plasma membrane and the trans-Golgi Network. They contain adaptor proteins, which serve as binding bridges between clathrin, vesicle membranes, and cargoes. A large family of monomeric ANTH/ENTH/VHS adaptors is present in A. thaliana. Here, we characterize two homologous ANTH-type clathrin adaptors, CAP1 and ECA4, in clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME). CAP1 and ECA4 are recruited to sites at the PM identified as clathrin-coated pits (CCPs), where they occasionally exhibit early bursts of high recruitment. Subcellular binding preferences of N- and C-terminal fluorescent protein fusions of CAP1 identified a functional adaptin-binding motif in the unstructured tails of CAP1 and ECA4. In turn, no function can be ascribed to a double serine phosphorylation site conserved in these proteins. Double knockout mutants do not exhibit deficiencies in general development or CME, but a contribution of CAP1 and ECA4 to these processes is revealed in crosses into sensitized endocytic mutant backgrounds. Overall, our study documents a contribution of CAP1 and ECA4 to CME in A. thaliana and opens questions about functional redundancy among non-homologous vesicle coat components.
Fixation dynamics of beneficial alleles in prokaryotic polyploid chromosomes and plasmids
Authors: Santer Mario , Kupczok Anne , Dagan Tal , Uecker Hildegard
Published: January 2022

Theoretical population genetics has been mostly developed for sexually reproducing diploid and for monoploid (haploid) organisms, focusing on eukaryotes. The evolution of bacteria and archaea is often studied by models for the allele dynamics in monoploid populations. However, many prokaryotic organisms harbor multicopy replicons – chromosomes and plasmids – and theory for the allele dynamics in populations of polyploid prokaryotes remains lacking. Here we present a population genetics model for replicons with multiple copies in the cell. Using this model, we characterize the fixation process of a dominant beneficial mutation at two levels: the phenotype and the genotype. Our results show that, depending on the mode of replication and segregation, the fixation time of mutant phenotypes may precede the genotypic fixation time by many generations; we term this time interval the heterozygosity window. We furthermore derive concise analytical expressions for the occurrence and length of the heterozygosity window, showing that it emerges if the copy number is high and selection strong. Replicon ploidy thus allows for the maintenance of genetic variation following phenotypic adaptation and consequently for reversibility in adaptation to fluctuating environmental conditions.
Uncovering One-Dimensional Reaction Coordinate that Underlies Structure-Function Relationship of Proteins
Authors: Wu Shanshan , Li Huiyu , Ma Ao
Published: January 2022

Understanding the mechanism of functional protein dynamics is critical to understanding protein functions. Reaction coordinates is a central topic in protein dynamics and the grail is to find the one-dimensional reaction coordinate that can fully determine the value of committor (i.e. the reaction probability in configuration space) for any protein configuration. We present a powerful new method that can, for the first time, identify the rigorous one-dimensional reaction coordinate in complex molecules. This one-dimensional reaction coordinate is determined by a fundamental mechanical operator--the generalized work functional. This method only requires modest computational cost and can be readily applied to large molecules. Most importantly, the generalized work functional is the physical origin of the collectivity in functional protein dynamics and provides a tentative roadmap that connects the structure of a protein to its function.
Synaptic Potentiation of Engram cells is Necessary and Sufficient for Context Fear Memory
Authors: Cardozo Leonardo M. , de Sousa André F. , Dillingham Blythe C. , Dang Westley , Job Nicholas , Yoo Eun J. , Ranamukhaarachchi Sural K. , Yuan Qi , Mayford Mark
Published: January 2022

The nature and distribution of the synaptic changes that underlie memory are not well understood. We examined the synaptic plasticity behind context fear conditioning and found that learning produced synaptic potentiation specifically onto engram neurons in the basolateral amygdala. This potentiation lasted at least 7 days, was reversed by extinction, and its disruption impaired memory recall. High frequency optogenetic stimulation of the CS and US-activated ensembles, or biochemical induction of synaptic potentiation in US-responsive neurons alone, was sufficient to produce a context fear association without prior associative training. These results suggest that plasticity of CS inputs onto US-responsive amygdala neurons underlies memory formation and is necessary and sufficient to establish context fear associations.
Interactions between influenza A virus nucleoprotein and gene segment UTRs facilitate selective modulation of viral gene expression
Authors: Diefenbacher Meghan , Tan Timothy JC , Bauer David LV , Stadtmueller Beth , Wu Nicholas C. , Brooke Christopher B.
Published: January 2022

The influenza A virus (IAV) genome is divided into eight negative-sense, single-stranded RNA segments. Each segment exhibits a unique level and temporal pattern of expression, however the exact mechanisms underlying the patterns of individual gene segment expression are poorly understood. We previously demonstrated that a single substitution in the viral nucleoprotein (NP:F346S) selectively modulates neuraminidase (NA) gene segment expression while leaving other segments largely unaffected. Given what is currently known about NP function, there is no obvious explanation for how changes in NP can selectively modulate the replication of individual gene segments. We found that the specificity of this effect for the NA segment is virus strain specific and depends on the UTR sequences of the NA segment. While the NP:F346S substitution did not significantly alter the RNA binding or oligomerization activities of NPin vitro, it specifically decreased the ability of NP to promote NA segment vRNA synthesis. In addition to NP residue F346, we identified two other adjacent aromatic residues in NP (Y385 & F479) capable of similarly regulating NA gene segment expression, suggesting a larger role for this domain in gene-segment specific regulation. Our findings reveal a new role for NP in selective regulation of viral gene segment replication and demonstrate how the expression patterns of individual viral gene segments can be modulated during adaptation to new host environments.

Author summary

Influenza A virus (IAV) is a respiratory pathogen that remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality. Escape from host immunity or emergence into new host species often requires mutations that modulate the functional activities of the viral glycoproteins hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) which are responsible for virus attachment to and release from host cells, respectively. Maintaining the functional balance between the activities of HA and NA is required for fitness across multiple host systems. Thus, selective modulation of viral gene expression patterns may be a key determinant of viral immune escape and cross-species transmission potential. We identified a novel mechanism by which the viral nucleoprotein (NP) gene can selectively modulate NA segment replication and gene expression through interactions with the segment UTR. Our work highlights an unexpected role for NP in selective regulation of expression from the individual IAV gene segments.
Prevalence and determinants of persistent symptoms after infection with SARS-CoV-2: Protocol for an observational cohort study (LongCOVID-study)
Authors: Mutubuki Elizabeth N. , van der Maaden Tessa , Leung Ka Yin , Wong Albert , Tulen Anna D. , de Bruijn Siméon , Haverman Lotte , Knoop Hans , Franz Eelco , van Hoek Albert Jan , van den Wijngaard Cees C.
Published: January 2022

Background

A substantial proportion of individuals infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) report persisting symptoms weeks and months following acute infection. Estimates on prevalence vary due to differences in study designs, populations, heterogeneity of symptoms and the way symptoms are measured. Common symptoms include fatigue, cognitive impairment and dyspnea. However, knowledge regarding the nature and risk factors for developing persisting symptoms is still limited. Hence in this study we aim to determine the prevalence, severity, risk factors and impact on quality of life of persisting symptoms in the first year following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods

The LongCOVID-study is both a prospective and retrospective cohort study with a one year follow up. Participants aged 5 years and above with self-reported positive or negative tests for SARS-CoV-2 will be included in the study. The primary outcome is the prevalence and severity of persistent symptoms in participants that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 compared to controls. Symptom severity will be assessed for fatigue using the Checklist Individual Strength (CIS subscale fatigue severity), pain (Rand-36/SF-36 subscale bodily pain), dyspnea (Medical Research Council (mMRC)) and cognitive impairment using the Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (CFQ). Secondary outcomes include loss of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and risk factors for persisting symptoms following infection with SARS-CoV-2.

Discussion

A better understanding regarding the nature of persisting symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection will enable better diagnosis, management and will consequently minimize negative consequences on quality of life.
TCF7L2 acts as a molecular switch in midbrain to control mammal vocalization through a transcriptional repression mechanism
Authors: Qi Huihui , Luo Li , Lu Caijing , Chen Runze , Zhou Xianyao , Zhang Xiaohui , Jia Yichang
Published: January 2022

Vocalization is an essential medium for sexual and social signaling in birds and mammals. Periaqueductal gray (PAG) a conserved midbrain structure is believed to be responsible for innate vocalizations, but its molecular regulation remains largely unknown. Here, through a mouse forward genetic screening we identified one of the key Wnt/ β-catenin effectors TCF7L2/TCF4 controls ultrasonic vocalization (USV) production and syllable complexity during maternal deprivation and sexual encounter. Expression of TCF7L2 in PAG excitatory neurons is necessary for the complex trait, while TCF7L2 loss reduces neuronal gene expressions and synaptic transmission in PAG. TCF7L2-mediated vocal β-catenin-binding domain but dependent of its DNA binding ability. Patient mutations associated with severe speech delay disrupt the transcriptional repression effect of TCF7L2, while mice carrying those mutations display severe USV impairments. Therefore, we conclude that TCF7L2 orchestrates gene expression in midbrain to control vocal production through a transcriptional repression mechanism.
Visualization of SpoVAEa protein dynamics in dormant spores of Bacillus cereus and dynamic changes in their germinosomes and SpoVAEa during germination
Authors: Wang Yan , Vischer Norbert O. E. , Wekking Demi , Boggian Alessandra , Setlow Peter , Brul Stanley
Published: January 2022

Bacillus cereus spores, like most Bacillus spores, can survive for years, germinate when their surroundings become suitable, and spore germination proteins play an important role in the initiation of germination. Because germinated spores lose dormant spores’ extreme resistance, information on the function of germination proteins could be useful in developing new strategies to control B. cereus spores. Prior work has shown that: i) the channel protein SpoVAEa exhibits high frequency movement in the outer leaflet of the inner membrane (IM) in dormant spores of B. subtilis; ii) the formation of the foci termed the germinosome between two germination proteins, the germinant receptor GerR and the scaffold protein GerD, in developing spores of B. cereus is slower than foci formation by GerR and GerD individually. However, the dynamics of movement of SpoVAEa in B. cereus spores, and the behaviour of the germinosome in B. cereus spore germination are unclear. In this study, we found that SpoVAEa fluorescent foci in dormant spores of B. cereus move on the IM, but slower than in B. subtilis spores, and likely colocalize transiently with GerD-mScarlet-I in the germinosome. Our results further indicate that: i) expression of GerR-SGFP2 and SpoVAEa-SGFP2 with GerD-mScarlet-I from a plasmid leads to more heterogeneity and lower efficiency of spore germination in B. cereus; and ii) germinosome foci observed by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between GerR-SGFP2 and GerD-mScarlet-I b can be lost soon after the spore phase transition. However this is not always the case, as some GerR-SGFP2 foci and GerD-mScarlet-I foci continued to exist, colocalize, and even show a weak FRET signal. These data highlight the heterogeneous behaviour of spore germination protein complexes and indicate that some complexes may persist well beyond the initiation of germination.

IMPORTANCE

Bacillus cereus is commonly present in soil and does harm to humans via contaminated food. In this study, we used B. cereus spores to investigate the movement of the spore-specific channel protein SpoVAEa, the interaction between SpoVAEa and the germinosome scaffold protein GerD, as well as the dynamics of a number of germination proteins in spore germination. Our results expand upon observations of the interactions between specific B. cereus spore germination proteins, in particular the GerR germinant receptor A, B and C subunits and GerD, as well as between SpoVAEa and GerD. The approaches used in this work could also be used to examine the interactions between GerD and SpoVAEa and other germination proteins in spores of other Bacillus species.
Translation re-initiation after uORFs does not fully protect mRNAs from nonsense-mediated decay
Authors: Russell Paul J. , Slivka Jacob A. , Boyle Elaina P. , Burghes Arthur H. M. , Kearse Michael G.
Published: January 2022

It is estimated that nearly 50% of mammalian transcripts contain at least one upstream open reading frame (uORF), which are typically one to two orders of magnitude smaller than the downstream main ORF. Most uORFs are thought to be inhibitory as they sequester the scanning ribosome, but in some cases allow for translation re-initiation. However, termination in the 5ʹ UTR at the end of uORFs resembles pre-mature termination that is normally sensed by the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway. Translation re-initiation has been proposed as a method for mRNAs to prevent NMD. Here we test how uORF length influences translation re-initiation and mRNA stability in HeLa cells. Using custom 5ʹ UTRs and uORF sequences, we show that re-initiation can occur on heterologous mRNA sequences, favors small uORFs, and is supported when initiation occurs with more initiation factors. After determining reporter mRNA half-lives in HeLa cells and mining available mRNA half-life datasets for cumulative predicted uORF length, we conclude that translation re-initiation after uORFs is not a robust method for mRNAs to prevent NMD. Together, these data suggests that the decision of whether NMD ensues after translating uORFs occurs before re-initiation in mammalian cells.
Mode selection mechanism in traveling and standing waves revealed by Min wave reconstituted in artificial cells
Authors: Takada Sakura , Yoshinaga Natsuhiko , Doi Nobuhide , Fujiwara Kei
Published: January 2022

Reaction-diffusion coupling (RDc) generates spatiotemporal patterns, including two dynamic wave modes: traveling and standing waves. Although mode selection plays a significant role in the spatiotemporal organization of living cell molecules, the mechanism for selecting each wave mode remains elusive. Here, we investigated a wave mode selection mechanism using Min waves reconstituted in artificial cells, emerged by the RDc of MinD and MinE. Our experiments and theoretical analysis revealed that the balance of membrane binding and dissociation from the membrane of MinD determines the mode selection of the Min wave. We successfully demonstrated that the transition of the wave modes can be regulated by controlling this balance and found hysteresis characteristics in the wave mode transition. These findings highlight a novel role of the balance between activators and inhibitors as a determinant of the mode selection of waves by RDc and depict a novel mechanism in intracellular spatiotemporal pattern formations.

Teaser

Activator-inhibitor balance determines whether a nonlinear wave in live cells becomes a traveling wave or standing wave.
Longitudinal symptom and clinical outcome analysis of hospitalized COVID-19 patients
Authors: Ziemys Arturas
Published: January 2022

COVID-19 pandemics increased patient hospitalization impacting the hospital operations and patient care beyond COVID-19 patients. Although longitudinal symptom analysis may provide prognostic utility about clinical outcomes and critical hospitalization events of COVID-19 patients, such analysis is still missing. Here, we have analyzed over 10,000 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in the Houston Methodist Hospital at the Texas Medical Center from the beginning of pandemics till April of 2020. Our study used statistical and regression analysis over symptoms grouped into symptom groups based on their anatomical locations. Symptom intensity analysis indicated that symptoms peaked at the time of admission and subsided within the first week of hospitalization for most of the patients. Patients surviving the infection (n=9,263), had faster remission rates, usually within the first days of hospitalization compared to sustained symptom for the deceased patient group (n=1,042). The latter had also a longer hospitalization stay and more comorbidities including diabetes, cardiovascular, and kidney disease. Inflammation-associated systemic symptoms (Systemic) such as fever and chills, and lower respiratory system specific symptoms (Lower Respiratory System) such as shortness of breath and pneumonia, were the most informative for the analysis of longitudinal symptom dynamics. Our results suggest that the symptom remission rate could possess prognostic utility in evaluating patient hospitalization stay and clinical outcomes early in hospitalization. We believe knowledge and information about symptom remission rates can be used to improve hospital operations and patient care by using common and relatively easy to process source of information.
Two viruses competition in the SIR model of epidemic spread: application to COVID-19
Authors: Ignatov A.M. , Trigger S.A.
Published: January 2022

The SIR model of the epidemic spread is used for consideration the problem of the competition of two viruses having different contagiousness. It is shown how the more contagious strain replaces over time the less contagious one. In particular the results can be applied to the current situation when the omicron strain appeared in population affected by the delta strain.

PACS number(s)

02.50.-r, 05.60.-k, 82.39.-k, 87.19.Xx
Crystal structure of a three-dimensional neodymium(III) coordination polymer, [Nd2(H2O)6(glutarato)(SO4)2]
n
Authors: Yimklan Saranphong , Chimupala Yothin , Wongngam Sutsiri , Kaeosamut Nippich
Published: January 2022

A three-dimensional coordination polymer, poly[hexaaqua(μ4-glutarato)bis(μ3-sulfato)dineodymium(III)], [Nd2(glutarato)(SO4)2(H2O)6]
n
(glutarato2– = C5H6O4
2–), 1, consisting of cationic {Nd2(H2O)6(SO4)2}
n

2n+ layers linked by bridging glutarate ligands, was synthesized by the microwave-heating technique within few minutes. The crystal structure of 1 consists of two crystallographically independent TPRS-{NdIIIO9} (TPRS is tricapped trigonal–prismatic geometry) units that form an edge-sharing dinuclear cluster interconnected to neighbouring dimers by the μ3-SO4
2– anions, yielding a cationic two-dimensional {Nd2(H2O)6(SO4)2}
n

2n+ sheet. Adjacent cationic layers are then linked via the μ4-glutarato2– ligands into a three-dimensional coordination network. Strong O—H...O hydrogen bonds are the predominant interaction in the crystal structure.
Sleep late? Pre-reform institutional embeddedness and entrepreneurial reinvestment of private firms in China’s transition economy
Authors: Song Di , Wu Aiqi , Zhong Xiaotong , Yu Shufan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to introduce an important temporal dimension to the research on institution and entrepreneurship in the transition period. This study develops the concept of pre-reform institutional embeddedness, and explores its impact on entrepreneurial reinvestment of private firms in China’s transition economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used secondary data of a nationally representative sample of China’s private firms collected in the early days of the institutional transition period and applied ordinary least squares regressions and the Baron and Kenny approach to test the theoretical model.

Findings

Pre-reform institutional embeddedness has a negative impact on entrepreneurial reinvestment of private firms in the transition period. This relationship is mediated by guanxi-induced employment, such that pre-reform institutional embeddedness promotes guanxi-induced employment, which in turn discourages a private firm to reinvest. Additionally, the negative impact of guanxi-induced employment on entrepreneurial reinvestment is reduced when decentralization of decision-making is used.

Practical implications

First, entrepreneurs should be aware of pre-reform institutional embeddedness’ negative influence on firms’ risk-taking abilities and incentives. Private firms already constrained by this connection could alleviate the negative impacts through a widespread delegation of decision-making authority. Second, policymakers should be cautious about improper government-business relationships, which may discourage private firms from fully pursuing entrepreneurial growth opportunities.

Originality/value

This paper makes theoretical contributions to the literature on entrepreneurial reinvestment, embeddedness perspective of entrepreneurship and imprinting theory.
A periodical analysis of e-government maturity in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzahrani Ahmed Ibrahim
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Governments of the developing countries must be ready to embrace the evolution of information technology. However, the growth in demand for online services and expectations for convenient access to government resources are placing governments under pressure to deliver outstanding e-services. Despite the successful attempts of the Saudi Government to deliver e-government services, the literature still needs to be advanced with evidence to demonstrate the current status of government websites. Additionally, the growth of e-government services should be periodically monitored and evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims to revisit e-government websites previously surveyed (2006-2012) in Saudi Arabia and examine growth based on the five-stage maturity model. This study supports the approach with a review of the United Nations data and links this assessment with the five-stage maturity model.

Findings

The results revealed remarkable improvements in the maturity level of online services provided by the government websites of Saudi Arabia.

Practical implications

The relationship between e-government use and investment decisions appears to be bidirectional, as greater levels of investment seem to offer more opportunities for service improvement.

Originality/value

The outcomes are expected to assist executive authorities in understanding the current situation of e-government and plan appropriate strategic suggestions and development.
Whole‐exome sequencing identified a novel pathogenic mutation of the CYP4F22 gene in a Chinese patient with autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis and in vitro study of the mutant CYP4F22 protein
Authors: Zhao Lina , Wang Caixia , Zhang Yaning , Li Jinyun , Liu Huize , Feng Dairong
Published: January 2022

Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI) is a heterogeneous group of rare cornification disorders. Of the 14 genes already known to cause ARCI, CYP4F22 is a relatively new genetic etiology, the mutation spectrum of which has yet to be profiled. Using whole‐exome sequencing in family trios, we identified the compound heterozygous mutations, c.844C>T (p.R282W) and c.1189C>T (p.R397C), of the CYP4F22 gene (NM_173483.4) in a Chinese neonatal boy with a congenital ichthyosis phenotype. In combination with multiple in silico analyses and the following in vitro functional studies, we provided evidence to classify these two variations as pathogenic mutations and demonstrated that both variants significantly reduced the CYP4F22 protein amount. Interestingly, the reduction of both mutant CYP4F22 protein could be recovered by trichostatin A (TSA) treatment, suggesting some deacetylation factors involved in regulating the mutant CYP4F22 protein and implying TSA might be a potential candidate compound for congenital ichthyosis caused by CYP4F22 variations.
Comparison of sheep scapula models created with polylactic acid and thermoplastic polyurethane filaments by three‐dimensional modelling
Authors: Kurt Semih , Selviler‐Sizer Sedef , Onuk Burcu , Kabak Murat
Published: January 2022

Three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology is a rapid prototyping method that has recently been increasingly used in anatomy education. Magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and 3D scanners are generally used to create 3D models. The aim of this study, which was performed without using the aforementioned devices, is to design sheep scapula models in a computer environment and compare bone models created with different filaments printed by a 3D printer with real bone. Photographs of sheep scapula were taken for modelling, and measurements were made from certain points. After the photographs were transferred to a computer environment, they were transformed into 3D using the Cinema 4D software, a computer‐aided design program. Models were created using a 3D printer employing polylactic acid (PLA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filaments. By comparing the models created with PLA and TPU filaments to the real bone, it was found that they have a similar anatomical structure, with dimensional‐morphometric differences found at some points. It was also observed that the scapula model created with PLA filaments was more resistant to impacts than the real bone and that the model created with TPU filaments was more flexible, with very low fragility as compared to PLA and real bone.

Therefore, this method allows obtaining a large number of durable models as an alternative to the real bone without the need for much manpower or equipment and without the need for a 3D reconstruction device.
Matters (and metaphors) of life and death: How DNA storage doubles back on its promise to the world
Authors: Mendell Madeleine , Hogan Mél , Verhoeven Deb
Published: January 2022

For this special section on “geographies of the digital,” we explore how DNA‐based data storage is touted as an alternative to traditional storage modalities and pitched by the data storage industry as a more efficient, stable, and long‐term archival solution than that offered by current technologies. In analyzing how DNA is soaked in the language of sustainability, life, and longevity by those trumpeting the new technology, we situate emergent discourses proposing DNA as a remedy to energy‐, water‐, and land‐intensive data centres and cloud storage. While DNA is not an “online” data storage technology, we show that the prospects of biological computation have altered the imagined futurity of cloud infrastructure. We then explain how DNA data storage works, and we complete the paper with three case studies—Microvenus, The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia, and The Arch Mission Foundation's Lunar Library—offering a critique of “the archive” as it is framed through these nascent scientific and technological discourses. In sum, we argue that DNA‐based data storage is imbricated by an apocalyptic thinking, and that the temporality and timing of this technology speaks to growing, unevenly distributed, planetary anxieties.
Diffuse dermal angiomatosis: a rare cause of painful ulceration in renal insufficiency
Authors: Matos Ana Luísa , Nogueira Rui , Flor Duarte , Alves Francisca , Cardoso José Carlos , Vieira Ricardo
Published: January 2022

Diffuse dermal angiomatosis is a rare, benign, reactive cutaneous vascular proliferation that has been reported in the context of end-stage renal failure and can rarely be associated with arteriovenous fistulas. We report a striking clinical resolution following prompt diagnosis and subsequent arteriovenous fistula reversal. This case further demonstrates that accurate diagnosis is particularly rewarding since correct therapeutic approach can be curative.
Association of maternal psoriasis and small for gestational age or preterm birth: a nationwide matched cohort study in 69 080 singleton infants
Authors: Johansen Cæcilie Bachdal , Egeberg Alexander , Jimenez-Solem Espen , Skov Lone , Thomsen Simon Francis
Published: January 2022

Background

Women with certain inflammatory diseases have an increased risk of giving birth to infants who are small for gestational age (SGA) or preterm birth (PTB), with maternal disease activity being the most important risk factor. However, previous studies investigating an association between psoriasis and SGA are scarce and have shown conflicting results.

Aim

To investigate the association between maternal psoriasis and risk of SGA infants and PTB, respectively, both overall and stratified by psoriasis severity.

Methods

This was a nationwide register-based matched cohort study of women with psoriasis matched 1 : 10 to women without psoriasis on age at delivery, body mass index and smoking status and with their first singleton infant born during the period 2004–2017. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI were calculated in conditional logistic regression models adjusted for known risk factors.

Results

From 516 063 deliveries, we identified 6282 women with psoriasis and 62 798 matched women without psoriasis. The risk of SGA and PTB was similar in women with psoriasis and matched controls: adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.07 (95% CI 0.98–1.17) and aOR = 1.05 (95% CI 0.93–1.19), respectively. The risk of term SGA was increased in women with psoriasis (aOR 1.11; 95% CI 1.01–1.22) compared with matched controls.

Conclusion

Maternal psoriasis was not associated with increased risk of SGA or PTB. Risk of term SGA was slightly increased in women with a history of psoriasis compared with matched controls, however; these infants are likely to be constitutionally small with no increased risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality.
The Seal of Biliteracy: A 10‐year retrospective
Authors: Davin Kristin J. , Heineke Amy J. , Hancock Charlotte R.
Published: January 2022

This year marks the 10‐year anniversary of the adoption of the Seal of Biliteracy in California. As of November 2021, the policy, which recognizes students who graduate high school bilingual and biliterate, exists in 45 states and the District of Columbia. However, due to its grassroots origins and lack of federal funding, requirements of the recognition vary from state to state. This article examines these variations and analyzes changes in the percentage of graduates earning the award across states. Findings consider how different policy characteristics compare to the percentage of students earning the award. Based on the findings, the authors discuss tradeoffs related to critical policy characteristics and conclude with recommendations.
Patient, clinician and manager experience of the accelerated implementation of virtual consultations following COVID‐19: A qualitative study of preferences in a tertiary orthopaedic rehabilitation setting
Authors: Gilbert Anthony W. , Jones Jeremy , Stokes Maria , May Carl R.
Published: January 2022

Aim

To investigate the experiences of patients, clinicians and managers during the accelerated implementation of virtual consultations (VCs) due to COVID‐19. To understand how patient preferences are constructed and organized.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with patients, clinicians and managerial staff at a single specialist orthopaedic centre in the United Kingdom. The interview schedule and coding frame were based on Normalisation Process Theory. Interviews were conducted over the telephone or by video call. Abductive analysis of interview transcripts extended knowledge from previous research to identify, characterize and explain how patient preferences for VC were formed and arranged.

Results

Fifty‐five participants were included (20 patients, 20 clinicians, 15 managers). Key mechanisms that contribute to the formation of patient preferences were identified. These were: (a) context for the consultation (normative expectations, relational expectations, congruence and potential); (b) the available alternatives and the implementation process (coherence, cognitive participation, collective action and reflexive monitoring). Patient preferences are mediated by the clinician and organisational preferences through the influence of the consultation context, available alternatives and the implementation process.

Conclusions

This study reports the cumulative analysis of five empirical studies investigating patient preferences for VC before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic as VC transitioned from an experimental clinic to a compulsory form of service delivery. This study has identified mechanisms that explain how preferences for VC come about and how these relate to organisational and clinician preferences. Since clinical pathways are shaped by interactions between patient, clinicians and organisational preferences, future service design must strike a balance between patient preferences and the preferences of clinicians and organisations.

Patient and Public Contribution

The CONNECT Project Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) group provided guidance on the conduct and design of the research. This took place with remote meetings between the lead researcher and the chair of the PPI group during March and April 2020. Patient information documentation and the interview schedule were developed with the PPI group to ensure that these were accessible.
The chronic disease Self‐Management Programme: A phenomenological study for empowering vulnerable patients with chronic diseases included in the EFFICHRONIC project
Authors: Fracso Dallal , Bourrel Gérard , Jorgensen Christian , Fanton Hélène , Raat Hein , Pilotto Alberto , Baker Graham , Pisano Marta M. , Ferreira Rosanna , Valsecchi Verushka , Pers Yves‐Marie , Engberink Agnes Oude
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The Chronic Disease Self‐Management Programme (CDSMP) has resulted in improved health outcomes for patients. However, research has focused mainly on those with chronic conditions and has not extensively explored prevention programmes targeting individuals with specific vulnerability profiles.

Aim

This study aimed to understand the effects of the CDSMP on the lived experience of vulnerable patients included in the EFFICHRONIC project in France, based on their needs and expectations before and after participation.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative phenomenological semio‐pragmatic study based on 37 in‐depth interviews with 20 patients (20 before/17 after CDSMP).

Results

By transforming existential dimensions (identity, relationship with others and bodily experience), chronic illness generates new needs in the vulnerable person. By resonating with the expectations and needs of participants, the CDSMP induces motivation and a sense of belonging to a community of peers. It has enabled the participants to become actors of their own health until empowerment. Although some limitations are reported, the programme has awakened a desire in the participants to take better care of their health and to develop personal skills with, for some, a desire to become involved in health education.

Conclusion

Our phenomenological approach highlighted the resonance between the programme (its design and implementation) and the lived experience of patients, as an effective element of empowerment. This necessitates training the facilitators to elicit the lived experience of patients. Furthermore, as a patient‐centred approach is required, the facilitators need to learn how to adapt the design of the programme to the singularity of the patient.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients provided the data that were collected through in‐depth interviews, and their experiences before and after the programme were analysed.
Liposomal phytohemagglutinin: In vivo T‐cell activator as a novel pan‐cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Alhallak Kinan , Sun Jennifer , Muz Barbara , Jeske Amanda , O’Neal Julie , Ritchey Julie K. , Achilefu Samuel , DiPersio John F. , Azab Abdel Kareem
Published: January 2022

Immunotherapy is an attractive approach for treating cancer. T‐cell engagers (TCEs) are a type of immunotherapy that are highly efficacious; however, they are challenged by weak T‐cell activation and short persistence. Therefore, alternative solutions to induce greater activation and persistence of T cells during TCE immunotherapy is needed. Methods to activate T cells include the use of lectins, such as phytohemagglutinin (PHA). PHA has not been used to activate T cells in vivo, for immunotherapy, due to its biological instability and toxicity. An approach to overcome the limitations of PHA while also preserving its function is needed. In this study, we report a liposomal PHA which increased PHA stability, reduced toxicity and performed as an immunotherapeutic that is able to activate T cells for the use in future cancer immunotherapies to circumvent current obstacles in immunosuppression and T‐cell exhaustion.
Analysis of the structure and function of the epidermal barrier in patients with ichthyoses—clinical and electron microscopical investigations
Authors: Fölster‐Holst R. , Naß C. , Dähnhardt‐Pfeiffer S. , Freitag‐Wolf S.
Published: January 2022

Background

Ichthyoses are pathogenetically characterized by a pronounced disorder of the epidermal barrier. Clinically, hyperkeratosis, severe scaling and erythroderma are present on the entire integument. The time‐consuming therapy includes daily baths and the application of skin care products to restore the epidermal barrier.

Objectives and methods

To enhance the knowledge about the structure and function of the epidermal barrier in ichthyoses, we conducted clinical, biophysical and electron microscopical measurements on 46 patients with ichthyoses, including autosomal recessive ichthyoses, keratinopathic ichthyoses, X‐chromosomal‐recessive ichthyosis and Netherton syndrome.

Results

The patients displayed a significantly decreased skin hydration along with unexpectedly low transepidermal waterloss values. Electron microscopical examinations demonstrated a severe occlusion of the epidermis by lipid remnants of skin care products in the stratum corneum. We found decreased intercellular lipid lamellae and an increased undulation of the corneocyte membrane of all ichthyoses, mostly pronounced in Netherton syndrome. The lipid profiles of ichthyoses showed decreased esterified Ω‐hydroxy‐sphingosine (EOS) ceramide levels.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate the extent of the epidermal barrier disruption in ichthyoses. In combination with the knowledge about pathogenetic causes, individually improved therapeutic options can be derived from our results. In the future, the analyses of the organization of intercellular lipid lamellae and corneocyte membrane undulation will enable improved investigations of the epidermal barrier in ichthyoses and may be used to study and evaluate possible effects of topical skin preparations.