bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel cell- and stage-specific transcriptional signatures defining Drosophila neurons, glia and hemocytes
Authors: Sakr Rosy , Cattenoz Pierre B. , Pavlidaki Alexia , Ciapponi Laura , Marzullo Marta , Hariharan Nivedita , Mukherjee Tina , Giangrande Angela
Published: July 2022

Cell types can be now defined at unprecedented resolution using high throughput assays. We analyzed the transcriptional signatures of Drosophila neurons, glia and hemocytes, as examples of cell types that are related by position (glia/neurons) or function (glia/hemocytes) or that are unrelated (neurons/hemocytes). The most related cells display the highest similarity level (neurons and glia), the least related ones, the lowest (neurons and hemocytes), however, cells can show plastic features. Glia are much more similar to neurons than to hemocytes in the embryo, but are equally similar to the two cell types in the larva, when hemocytes acquire more immune functions. Larval glia and hemocytes display common as well as specific immune features, such as the glia-specific NimA receptor, in agreement with the different environment faced by each cell types. Surprisingly, time represents a key identity parameter, as neurons, hemocytes and glia group more significantly by the stage than by the cell type and larval cells show upregulation of genes involved in chromatin organization and in DNA repair. This latter group of genes is linked to changes in gene expression levels and chromatin organization, revealing a function of these genes beyond DNA repair. Finally, the metabolic profiles reveal cell type-specific signatures and an overall shift from an embryonic, anabolic state to a larval, catabolic state.
Development of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as anin vivomodel forBorrelia burgdorferiinfection
Authors: Misner Erica , Zhang Min , Sapi Eva
Published: July 2022

Borrelia burgdorferiis the spirochetal bacterium that causes Lyme disease. Despite the fact that antimicrobial sensitivity ofB. burgdorferihas been widely studied, there is still a need to develop an affordable, practical, high-throughputin vivomodel which can be used to find effective antibiotic therapies, especially for the recently discovered persister and biofilm forms. Recent studies showed that Zebrafish (Danio rerio) could offer a novel, high-throughput, affordable model in antibiotic therapies for various infections agents can be studied. Therefore, in this study, we developed a straightforward, standardized infection procedure and tested it for zebrafish survival rate, morphological or behavioral changes post-infection as well as providing evidence thatB. burgdorferipersists in zebrafish using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemical (IHC) techniques. Morphological and physiological examination showed a significant size difference between control and infected zebrafish at 2 wpi, and infected zebrafish exhibited slower heart rates through 72 hpi. Furthermore, our results showedB. burgdorferiDNA can be detected and active replication of theB. burgdorferi16S rRNA gene can be confirmed through 10 days post-infection via PCR and Reverse Transcription PCR respectively. Fluorescent microscopy and immunohistochemical staining revealed spirochetes present in the eyes, gills, heart, liver, tail, and hindbrain tissues though 72 hpi as well as the stomach and digestive tract at 2 weeks post-infection, respectively. These findings demonstrate that zebrafish could serve as a promising animal model to study the mechanism ofB. burgdorferiinfection as well asin vivoantibiotic sensitivity.
High Sox2 expression predicts taste lineage competency of lingual progenitors in vitro
Authors: Shechtman Lauren A. , Scott Jennifer K. , Larson Eric D. , Isner Trevor J. , Johnson Bryan J. , Gaillard Dany , Dempsey Peter J. , Barlow Linda A.
Published: July 2022

Summary

Taste buds on the tongue are collections of taste receptor cells (TRCs) that detect sweet, sour, salty, umami and bitter stimuli. Like non-taste lingual epithelium, TRCs are renewed from basal keratinocytes, many of which express the transcription factor SOX2. Genetic lineage tracing has shown SOX2+ lingual progenitors give rise to both taste and non-taste lingual epithelium in the posterior circumvallate taste papilla (CVP) of mice. However, SOX2 is variably expressed among CVP cells suggesting that their progenitor potential may vary. Using transcriptome analysis and organoid technology, we show highly expressing SOX2+ cells are taste-competent progenitors that give rise to organoids comprising both TRCs and lingual epithelium, while organoids derived from low-expressing SOX2+ progenitors are composed entirely of non-taste cells. Hedgehog and WNT/ß-catenin are required for taste homeostasis in adult mice, but only WNT/ß-catenin promotes TRC differentiation in vitro and does so only in organoids derived from higher SOX2+ taste lineage-competent progenitors.
Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Reprograms the Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Improves Murine Cancer Outcomes
Authors: Giurini Eileena F , Williams Michael , Morin Adam , Zloza Andrew , Gupta Kajal H
Published: July 2022

Following the breakthrough of immune check point inhibitors (ICIs), a new era of immuno-oncology agents has emerged and established immunotherapy as a part of cancer treatment. Despite the improving outcomes of ICIs, many patients with initial response are known to develop acquired resistance later. There is increasing interest in utilizing other stimulatory means, such as anti-pathogen immune responses to induce anti-tumor immune responses. The immunostimulatory effects of anti-pathogen-treated tumors in combinations with ICI are known to potentially amplify anti-tumor immunity resulting in increased tumor responses and improved outcomes. Anti-pathogen-treated tumors can become immune-infiltrated “hot” tumors and demonstrate higher treatment response rates and improved survival. Our research group has previously demonstrated that tumors can be converted from “cold” to “hot” by intratumoral injection of a commercially available seasonal influenza vaccine. In continuation with our work, in deciphering the role of anti-viral immunity in the context of tumor immunology, we studied the role of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 virus as anti-tumor agent. Here we report that intratumoral injections of inactivated SARS-CoV-2 convert the immunologically cold tumors to hot by generating anti-tumor-mediated CD8+ T cells. Our findings suggest that inactivated SARS-CoV-2 can be used as an immune modulator in immunotherapy for melanoma and triple-negative breast cancer.
Does board demographic diversity affect the dividend payout policy in Turkey?
Authors: Khan Ajab , Yilmaz Mustafa Kemal , Aksoy Mine
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of board demographic diversity on the dividend payout policy in Turkish capital markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 67 non-financial companies listed on Borsa Istanbul 100 index from 2013 to 2018, this study examines the influence of board demographic diversity on dividend payout policies in Turkish capital markets. The authors also create a Demographic Board Diversity Index (DBDI) to estimate the composite cognitive diversity. The authors use dividend payment probability, dividend payout ratio, and dividend yield to measure the dividend policy and employ panel logit and tobit regression models.

Findings

The results indicate that diversity in nationality, experience and educational background play an influential role in encouraging companies to pay high dividends, while gender, tenure and age diversity are insignificant in affecting dividend payments. The findings also suggest that the DBDI positively affects the companies in formulating the dividend payout policies. Finally, the findings show that the family-owned companies with diverse board members have a negative influence on dividend payment intensity.

Originality/value

The results offer valuable insights for companies and policymakers in emerging markets to develop a more refined governance structure accommodating board demographic diversity attributes to mitigate agency conflicts between controlling and minority shareholders through setting up effective dividend payout policies.
Risk allocation for energy performance contract from the perspective of incomplete contract: a study of commercial buildings in China
Authors: Wan Shiyu , Liu Yisheng , Ding Grace , Runeson Goran , Er Michael
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This article aims to establish a dynamic Energy Performance Contract (EPC) risk allocation model for commercial buildings based on the theory of Incomplete Contract. The purpose is to fill the policy vacuum and allow stakeholders to manage risks in energy conservation management by EPCs to better adapt to climate change in the building sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The article chooses a qualitative research approach to depict the whole risk allocation picture of EPC projects and establish a dynamic EPC risk allocation model for commercial buildings in China. It starts with a comprehensive literature review on risks of EPCs. By modifying the theory of Incomplete Contract and adopting the so-called bow-tie model, a theoretical EPC risk allocation model is developed and verified by interview results. By discussing its application in the commercial building sector in China, an operational EPC three-stage risk allocation model is developed.

Findings

This study points out the contract incompleteness of the risk allocation for EPC projects and offered an operational method to guide practice. The reasonable risk allocation between building owners and Energy Service Companies can realize their bilateral targets on commercial building energy-saving benefits, which makes EPC more attractive for energy conservation.

Originality/value

Existing research focused mainly on static risk allocation. Less research was directed to the phased and dynamic risk allocation. This study developed a theoretical three-stage EPC risk allocation model, which provided the theoretical support for dynamic EPC risk allocation of EPC projects. By addressing the contract incompleteness of the risk allocation, an operational method is developed. This is a new approach to allocate risks for EPC projects in a dynamic and staged way.
WHO invents what? Women’s participation in patenting activity in Spain
Authors: Medina Lisset , Álvarez Isabel
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Recent years have seen increased participation by women in Science and Technology activities, but parity with men remains a distant goal. This paper provides a framework for improving knowledge on the dynamics of women’s contributions to innovation, as measured through their contributions as inventors.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis was conducted using data from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database, covering over 40 years from 1976 to 2019. The study provides a breakdown of women’s inventiveness/innovation by technology area, which permits analysis of whether female inventors tend to work individually or as part of a team, as well as analysis of the effects of international networks.

Findings

Specific data have been analyzed around innovative activity by women in Spain, providing new insights on gender gaps. Key findings include those recent increases in inventions by women (as measured through patents) have occurred mostly via participation in internationally connected mixed-gender teams. Furthermore, the inventive creativity of women is found to be sector-biased and framed mainly in the chemical sector.

Originality/value

There are no similar contributions using USPTO data for Spanish inventions. This is an original paper that emphasizes the potential of collaborative networks as key driving mechanisms for the reduction of gender gaps and for the larger integration of women into innovation activities, with potential implications for stakeholders at both firm and governmental levels.
Heuristics and cognitive biases in the housing investment market
Authors: Cascão Ana , Quelhas Ana Paula , Cunha António Manuel
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the heuristics and cognitive biases described by behavioral finance in the investment decision-making process of Portugal’s housing market.

Design/methodology/approach

In a first step, the authors applied an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to assess the impact of heuristics and cognitive biases on investors’ decision-making. In a second step, the authors run a structural equation model (SEM) diagram path to assess if the sociodemographic characteristics of housing market investors determine the identified heuristics and if the heuristics condition the investors’ investment criteria.

Findings

Herd behavior and the heuristics of representativeness, availability and anchoring influence the housing market’s investors’ behavior in their decision-making process. Investors with above-average income show higher levels of overconfidence. Investors showing higher levels of overconfidence also tend to be more sensitive to the house price under analysis for investment. Women tend to show higher levels of the availability and anchoring heuristic. In turn, housing market investors showing higher levels of availability and anchoring heuristic tend to be more sensitive to the price and location of the house under analysis for investment.

Research limitations/implications

The explained variance of the EFA is below 50%, and the root mean square of approximation of the SEM is above the threshold of 0.05. These indicators are evidence of the models’ fragility.

Practical implications

Governments and regulators can better prevent real estate bubbles if they monitor behavioral biases and heuristics of housing investors together with quantitative indicators. Realtors can profit from adapting their marketing strategy and commercial communication to investors of sociodemographic groups more prone to a specific type of heuristics.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that combines the contributions of behavioral finance with Portugal’s housing investment market and the first study connecting heuristics to investment criteria.
Genesis of an innovation-based entrepreneurial ecosystem: exploring the role of intellectual capital
Authors: Marinelli Luca , Bartoloni Sara , Pascucci Federica , Gregori Gian Luca , Farina Briamonte Massimiliano
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The aim of the study is to explore the genesis of entrepreneurial ecosystems (EE) and highlight the role played by intellectual capital (IC) in that process. Specifically, the paper adopts the collective intelligence approach, and the study shows how human capital (HC), structural capital (SC) and relational capital (RC) interact to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a single case study of an Italian EE. The data analysis is based upon the collection of different sources of data: semi-structured interviews with representatives of each actor of the ecosystem; email correspondence; meetings report; a 24-months period of direct observation. Given the novelty of the topic, the qualitative method seems well suited for studying innovation-based EE since the method offers rich data about a phenomenon in real-life context.

Findings

The case is a top-down, innovation-based EE in which all main components of the IC play a crucial role from the initial stage. Findings show how the constant interchange between IC components occurs at two different levels: the micro and the meso level. HC and RC play major roles at both levels, whilst SC only occurs at a meso level, representing the environment in which the whole ecosystem takes place. Additionally, the use case, a new intangible asset integrating all three components of IC, emerged as one of the main outcomes of this innovation-based EE.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a rather unexplored topic in the existing literature on EE and IC, namely the formation process of EE and the role played by IC within that process. Additionally, through the application of the collective intelligence approach, the authors shed light on the need to manage IC at both micro and meso level in the creation of an EE.
Modeling the stochastic volatility of MAD/EURO and MAD/USD the exchange rates by the Bayesian approach and the MCMC (Monte Carlo Markov Chain) algorithm
Authors: Zakaria Firano , Benbachir Anass
Published: July 2022

Purpose

One of the crucial issues in the contemporary finance is the prediction of the volatility of financial assets. In this paper, the authors are interested in modelling the stochastic volatility of the MAD/EURO and MAD/USD exchange rates.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, the authors have adopted Bayesian approach based on the MCMC (Monte Carlo Markov Chain) algorithm which permits to reproduce the main stylized empirical facts of the assets studied. The data used in this study are the daily historical series of MAD/EURO and MAD/USD exchange rates covering the period from February 2, 2000, to March 3, 2017, which represent 4,456 observations.

Findings

By the aid of this approach, the authors were able to estimate all the random parameters of the stochastic volatility model which permit the prediction of the future exchange rates. The authors also have simulated the histograms, the posterior densities as well as the cumulative averages of the model parameters. The predictive efficiency of the stochastic volatility model for Morocco is capable to facilitate the management of the exchange rate in more flexible exchange regime to ensure better targeting of monetary and exchange policies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the novelty of the paper lies in the production of a tool for predicting the evolution of the Moroccan exchange rate and also the design of a tool for the monetary authorities who are today in a proactive conception of management of the rate of exchange. Cyclical policies such as monetary policy and exchange rate policy will introduce this type of modelling into the decision-making process to achieve a better stabilization of the macroeconomic and financial framework.
The impact of implementing visual grammar on learning participle adjectives by EFL learners
Authors: Qadha Adil Mohammed , Al-Wasy Baleigh Qassem
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of using visual grammar on learning participle adjectives by EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners.

Design/methodology/approach

The study follows an experimental design in which two groups participated in the study. The experimental group used visual grammar tools in learning participle adjectives. The control group was taught the participle adjectives in a traditional way. A pre–post test was designed and presented to the participants in the two groups.

Findings

The results showed that the experimental group made statistically significant improvements in their performance in using participle adjectives due to the use of visual grammar tools.

Research limitations/implications

The current study is only limited to the effect of visual images on a particular grammatical issue, that is participle adjectives. Besides, the study does not include the gender variable; there may be variation in the results depending on the variable of gender.

Practical implications

The present study can provide language instructors with some guidelines on how to incorporate visual grammar applications in teaching grammar aspects. Learners can also be encouraged to have a better understanding of English grammar, using the different connotations of visual images.

Social implications

Using visual images in teaching grammar will increase the learners' ability to think beyond their classroom environment. They can use this experience whenever they face visual images in different societal activities.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the initial attempts to investigate the effect of using visual grammar on learning participle adjectives.
Using ecosystem engineers to enhance multiple ecosystem processes
Authors: Byers James E.
Published: July 2022

Ecosystem engineers (EEs) strongly influence ecosystems by affecting the abiotic properties of a system to which many biota respond. EEs can, thus, be pivotal species in restoration by helping to move systems toward desired states much faster and more efficiently than direct human intervention on the abiotic state.

For EEs to play a central, purposeful role in restoration, it is important to identify guiding principles about how the EEs may best be selected and incorporated.

I discuss three important aspects to determine (a) where the utility for EEs is high; (b) where EEs can most easily establish, are easy to handle and scaling‐up their use is possible; and (c) how to recognize and value multiple, coupled and trait‐dependent engineering functions of EEs.

Understanding these aspects of EEs should help guide purposeful and efficient choices in our approach to restoration.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Is it Time to Rationalise Humanities Education in Australian Public Universities?
Authors: Charles Michael B. , Harmes Marcus , Kortt Michael A.
Published: July 2022

This study examines how Australian public universities have a presence in the various discipline areas recognised by the Australian Academy of the Humanities. Using the prism of public value, we interpret how universities articulate the legitimacy of teaching humanities. Through a careful audit of available secondary data, we advance a typology of humanities education. Our principal finding is that Australia's humanities presence is surprisingly homogenous, with only a few universities proposing a specialised offering. We contend that this creates an environment where universities may be forced to consider abandoning their humanities offerings unless a higher degree of differentiation takes place.
How alcohol makes the epigenetic clock tick faster and the clock reversing effect of abstinence
Authors: Zindler Tristan , Frieling Helge , Fliedner Lena , Veer Ilya M. , Neyazi Alexandra , Awasthi Swapnil , Ripke Stephan , Walter Henrik , Friedel Eva
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the recently reported association between alcohol dependence and accelerated ageing and the potential effects of abstinence and relapse on DNA methylation status using Levine's epigenetic clock to estimate DNA methylation age in two independent cohorts. The first sample comprised 88 (15 female) detoxified patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and 32 (5 female) healthy control (CON) subjects (NCT02615977), and the second included 69 (10 female) AUD patients that were followed up for 12 months with respect to relapse (n = 38, 4 female) and abstinence (n = 31, 6 female) (NCT01679145). To account for the different aspects of ageing captured by various clocks, we performed additional analyses of the first‐generation Horvath clock and next‐generation Zhang clock. To account for the genetic liability of AUD and its potential influence on DNA methylation, we calculated a polygenic risk score for alcohol dependence. We found that ageing was accelerated by 3.64 years in AUD patients compared with the CON group according to Levine's DNAm PhenoAge. Furthermore, in a second longitudinal sample, we found that abstaining AUD patients displayed a decrease in DNAm PhenoAge by 3.1 years, but we found an over proportional increase by 2.7 years in those who relapsed. Polygenic risk did not affect epigenetic ageing within our sample. These results confirm the age acceleration associated with AUD and provide the first evidence for a recovery of this effect upon abstinence from alcohol.
Genome‐wide association study revealed ABCD4 on SSC7 and GREB1L and MIB1 on SSC6 as crucial candidate genes for rib number in Beijing Black pigs
Authors: Niu Naiqi , Liu Qian , Hou Xinhua , Liu Xin , Wang Ligang , Zhao Fuping , Gao Hongmei , Shi Lijun , Wang Lixian , Zhang Longchao
Published: July 2022

As one of the few animals with variation in the number of rib pairs (RIB), the pig is a good model to study the mechanism of RIB regulation. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) for porcine RIB are present on Sus scrofa chromosome 7 (SSC7). Although several candidate genes exist in this QTL region on SSC7, the causal gene has yet to be verified. Beijing Black pig with 14–17 RIB is a good population for candidate gene mining and 1104 individuals were genotyped using the Illumina Porcine 50K BeadChip. A total of 14 SNPs from 95.49 to 97.78 Mb on SSC7 showed genome‐wide significant association with RIB. On SSC7, a locuszoom plot using pairwise linkage disequilibrium displayed the narrowest linkage region encompassing only two genes, ABCD4 and VRTN. In mice, a transcriptome expression profile was obtained using three embryos at E9.5 (the critical period for rib formation). ABCD4 was highly expressed, but no expression of VRTN was detected. On SSC6, there were four genome‐wide significant SNPs from 106.42 to 106.92 Mb associated with RIB. GREB1L and MIB1, in this region, were regarded as novel candidate genes. These results revealed a crucial candidate causal gene on SSC7 and novel genes on SSC6 for rib number and provided interesting new insights into its genetic basis.
Influence of tapentadol and oxycodone on the spinal cord and brain using electrophysiology: a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Nedergaard Rasmus Bach , Hansen Tine Maria , Mørch Carsten Dahl , Niesters Marieke , Dahan Albert , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr
Published: July 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of tapentadol and oxycodone using the nociceptive withdrawal reflex and sensory evoked potentials.

Methods

Twenty‐one healthy volunteers completed a cross‐over trial with oxycodone (10 mg), tapentadol (50 mg) extended‐release tablets, or placebo treatment administered orally BID for 14 days. Electrical stimulations were delivered on the plantar side of the foot to evoke a nociceptive withdrawal reflex at baseline and post‐interventions. Electromyography, recorded at tibialis anterior, and electroencephalography were recorded for analysis of: number of reflexes, latencies, and area under the curve of the nociceptive withdrawal reflex as well as latencies, amplitudes and dipole sources of the sensory‐evoked potential.

Results

Tapentadol decreased the odds ratio of eliciting nociceptive withdrawal reflex by −0.89 (P = .001, 95% confidence interval [CI] −1.46, −0.32), whereas oxycodone increased the latency of the N1 component of the sensory‐evoked potential at the vertex by 12.5 ms (P = .003, 95% CI 3.35, 21.69). Dipole sources revealed that the anterior cingulate component moved caudally for all three interventions (all P < .02), and the insula components moved caudally in both the oxycodone and tapentadol arms (all P < .03).

Conclusion

A decrease in the number of nociceptive withdrawal reflex was observed during tapentadol treatment, possibly relating to the noradrenaline reuptake inhibition effects on the spinal cord. Both oxycodone and tapentadol affected cortical measures possible due to μ‐opioid receptor agonistic effects evident in the dipole sources, with the strongest effect being mediated by oxycodone. These findings could support the dual effect analgesic mechanisms of tapentadol in humans as previously shown in preclinical studies.
Present and future avenues of cell‐based therapy for brain injury: The enteric nervous system as a potential cell source
Authors: Hacene Sirine , Le Friec Alice , Desmoulin Franck , Robert Lorenne , Colitti Nina , Fitremann Juliette , Loubinoux Isabelle , Cirillo Carla
Published: July 2022

Cell therapy is a promising strategy in the field of regenerative medicine; however, several concerns limit the effective clinical use, namely a valid cell source. The gastrointestinal tract, which contains a highly organized network of nerves called the enteric nervous system (ENS), is a valuable reservoir of nerve cells. Together with neurons and neuronal precursor cells, it contains glial cells with a well described neurotrophic potential and a newly identified neurogenic one. Recently, enteric glia is looked at as a candidate for cell therapy in intestinal neuropathies. Here, we present the therapeutic potential of the ENS as cell source for brain repair, too. The example of stroke is introduced as a brain injury where cell therapy appears promising. This disease is the first cause of handicap in adults. The therapies developed in recent years allow a partial response to the consequences of the disease. The only prospect of recovery in the chronic phase is currently based on rehabilitation. The urgency to offer other treatments is therefore tangible. In the first part of the review, some elements of stroke pathophysiology are presented. An update on the available therapeutic strategies is provided, focusing on cell‐ and biomaterial‐based approaches. Following, the ENS is presented with its anatomical and functional characteristics, focusing on glial cells. The properties of these cells are depicted, with particular attention to their neurotrophic and, recently identified, neurogenic properties. Finally, preliminary data on a possible therapeutic approach combining ENS‐derived cells and a biomaterial are presented.
Anticancer activities of Brachydin C in human prostate tumor cells (DU145) grown in 2D and 3D models: Stimulation of cell death and downregulation of metalloproteinases in spheroids
Authors: Oliveira Larissa Cristina Bastos de , Ribeiro Diego Luis , Nascimento Jessyane Rodrigues do , Rocha Claudia Quintino da , Cólus Ilce Mara de Syllos , Serpeloni Juliana Mara
Published: July 2022

Brachydin C (BrC) has demonstrated in vitro cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects in prostate cancer cells. In the present study, we compare the anticancer effects of BrC in DU145 cells grown in common bidimensional cultures (2D) and multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS), often denominated 3D in vitro models, that can better mimic the microenvironment of tissues. BrC IC50 values obtained in the resazurin assay after 24 h of treatment were 47.31 μM (2D) and 229.8 μM (3D) and these cytotoxic effects were time‐dependent only in 3D. BrC (5.0–60 μM) interfered with the growth of MCTS and reduced cell viability after 11 days of treatment, a result that is not attributable to oxidative stress evaluated using the CM‐H2DCFDA probe. BrC (6.0 μM) impaired horizontal (wound‐healing) and vertical cell migration and invasion (transwell assay) in 2D and BrC (5.0–60 μM) in 3D (ECM Gel®). BrC modulated the expression of genes BIRC5, TNF‐α, CASP3, NKX3.1, MMP9, MMP11, CDH1, and ITGAM and downregulated proteins CASP7, BAX, and TNF‐α in Western blotting analysis. In conclusion, BrC stimulated cell death and decreased epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, DU145 MCTS displayed higher resistance to BrC‐induced cell death than 2D cultures, a difference that should be considered in future approaches in prostatic cancer studies.
Shaping the future of teledermatology: a literature review of patient and provider satisfaction with synchronous teledermatology during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Miller John , Jones Elizabeth
Published: July 2022

Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread adoption of synchronous teledermatology (e.g. live video conferencing) has increased patient and provider familiarity with the method. To our knowledge, no teledermatology reviews have exclusively characterized patient and provider satisfaction with synchronous models of teledermatology. This study quantitatively evaluated patient and provider satisfaction through a literature review of synchronous teledermatology studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. We undertook a review of the literature using the PubMed database, which was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The search terms included, but were not limited to, ‘teledermatology’, ‘patient satisfaction’ and ‘provider satisfaction’. Studies were evaluated for quality of evidence, based on guidelines described by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine. In total, 15 studies satisfied the inclusion criteria, and described the satisfaction of 7871 patients and 146 providers with synchronous teledermatology during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and providers were overall satisfied with access measures, the patient–provider relationship and the ability of synchronous teledermatology to meet patient needs. Limitations of the virtual physical examination and image/video quality were consistent limiting factors for the patient and provider experience, respectively. Patients and providers perceive that synchronous teledermatology can meet the needs of the patient. Patients perceived a satisfactory patient–provider relationship through synchronous teledermatology. Practices can identify best applications and educate patients on expectations of the virtual examination in order to enhance the use and sustainability of synchronous teledermatology beyond the pandemic.
The benefits of initiating continuous renal replacement therapy after brain death in organ donors with oligoanuric acute kidney injury
Authors: Marklin Gary F. , Ewald Laura , Klinkenberg W. Dean , Joy Christina M. , Bander Steven J. , Rothstein Marcos
Published: July 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in deceased organ donors is increasing due to the escalation in anoxic brain‐deaths. The management of an organ donor with oligoanuric AKI is frequently curtailed due to hemodynamic and electrolyte instability. Although continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) corrects the effects of AKI, it is rarely started after the diagnosis of brain‐death (BD). Since 2017, we have initiated CRRT in organ donors with oligoanuric AKI to allow more time to stabilize the donor and improve the function of the thoracic organs. We now report our experience with the first 27 donors with oligoanuric AKI that received CRRT after the diagnosis of BD, with organs transplanted as the primary outcome. The average duration of CRRT was 30.1 ± 14.4 h and the mean ultrafiltration volume was 5141 ± 4272 ml. The time from BD declaration to cross clamp was significantly longer in the CRRT group versus a historical cohort with oligoanuric AKI that was not dialyzed (62.8 ± 18.3 vs. 37.1 ± 14.9 h;P < .01). The mean number of total organs transplanted per donor in the CRRT group was greater than the historical cohort, 2.9 ± 1.7 vs. 1.4 ± .6 (P = .< 01), respectively. The mean number of thoracic organs transplanted per donor also increased between the two groups, 1.4 ± 1.2 versus .6 ± .9 (P = .02). Thirty‐seven percent of the kidneys were successfully transplanted with a mean serum creatinine of 1.4 mg/dl at 6 months. We suggest that OPOs consider starting CRRT in organ donors with oligoanuric AKI to possibly increase the number of organs transplanted.
Rewilding life together: Bonhoeffer, spirituality, and interspecies community
Authors: Dahill Lisa E.
Published: July 2022

In a time of grave ecological danger, compounding injustices, and resource stresses threatening entire human and ecosystemic populations, we need new forms of life together, an intentional interspecies weirding of inherited religious visions of community. The recent turn toward place‐based thinking orients our gaze back to the actual places we live, learning again to see, love, and sustain relationships with their creatures and elements. This article stands within that larger development of place‐based hermeneutics: engaging Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Life Together toward an interspecies broadening of what Christian community means. Such life together takes distinctive shape in each particular place: here, the fire‐charred chaparral and car‐centered built world of southern California, haunted by European settlers’ annihilation of the local indigenous humans, grizzlies, and groundwater, ground zero now for climate‐, pandemic‐, extinction‐, and immigrationjustice challenges. The article's process generates new insights in the study of Bonhoeffer's legacy and hermeneutical strategies useful for other projects in place‐based (re‐) readings of classic texts in Christian spirituality.
The effect of curcumin on hepatic fat content in individuals with obesity
Authors: Hellmann Pernille H. , Bagger Jonatan I. , Carlander Katrine R. , Forman Julie , Chabanova Elizaveta , Svenningsen Jens S. , Holst Jens J. , Gillum Matthew P. , Vilsbøll Tina , Knop Filip K.
Published: July 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effect of curcumin treatment on hepatic fat content in obese individuals.

Materials and Methods

In a double‐blind, parallel‐group trial, 37 obese, non‐diabetic individuals were randomized to placebo or curcumin treatment for 6 weeks. Curcumin was dosed as lecithin‐formulated tablet; 200 mg twice daily. The primary endpoint was hepatic fat content as assessed by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Other endpoints included anthropometric measurements, hepatic biomarkers including FibroScan measurements, metabolic variables, inflammation markers, appetite measures andad libitumfood intake.

Results

Baseline characteristics (mean ± SD) were age 46 ± 14 years, hepatic fat content 12.2% ± 8.8% points, body mass index 38.8 ± 6.1 kg/m2and waist circumference 125.8 ± 12.3 cm. After 6 weeks of treatment with curcumin, hepatic fat content was changed by −0.86% points (95% CI −3.65; 1.94) compared with 0.71% points (95% CI − 2.08; 3.51) with placebo, thus resulting in a non‐significant estimated treatment difference of −1.57% points (95% CI −5.36; 2.22,P = .412). Compared with placebo, curcumin treatment caused small reductions in fasting plasma glucose (estimated treatment difference [ETD] − 0.24 mmol/L [95% CI −0.45; −0.03]), triglycerides (ETD [percentage change] −20.22% [95% CI −33.21; −6.03]) and gamma glutamyltransferase (ETD [percentage change] −15.70% [95% CI −23.32; −7.32]), but except for gamma glutamyltransferase, none of these differences remained statistically significant after adjusting for multiple testing. Treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusions

Compared with placebo, curcumin treatment for 6 weeks had no significant effect on MRS‐assessed hepatic fat content in obese individuals with primarily mild steatosis. Curcumin was well tolerated.
Investment Strategies and Corporate Behaviour with Socially Responsible Investors: A Theory of Active Ownership
Authors: Gollier Christian , Pouget Sébastien
Published: July 2022

Socially responsible investors constitute an important force in today's global financial markets. This paper examines conditions under which socially responsible investors induce companies to behave responsibly. We develop an asset pricing model in which some shareholders are active owners, that is, they engage companies by voting on strategic decisions. Differences of objective among shareholders arise because socially responsible investors value corporate externalities. In our baseline model, we show that a firm may choose a responsible strategy even if the majority of investors are not responsible. We also demonstrate that such a choice of a responsible strategy might be fragile because it might depend on investors' self‐fulfilling beliefs. We then extend our baseline model to analyse the link between divestment and engagement strategies, the case with multiple firms, the role of benefit corporation charters, and the impact of a large investor.
Epileptic spasms are associated with increased stereo‐electroencephalography derived functional connectivity in tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Neal Andrew , Bouet Romain , Lagarde Stanislas , Ostrowsky‐Coste Karine , Maillard Louis , Kahane Philippe , Touraine Renaud , Catenoix Helene , Montavont Alexandra , Isnard Jean , Arzimanoglou Alexis , Hermier Marc , Guenot Marc , Bartolomei Fabrice , Rheims Sylvain , Jung Julien
Published: July 2022

Objective

Epileptic spasms (ES) are common in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). However, the underlying network alterations and relationship with epileptogenic tubers are poorly understood. We examined interictal functional connectivity (FC) using stereo‐electroencephalography (SEEG) in patients with TSC to investigate the relationship between tubers, epileptogenicity, and ES.

Methods

We analyzed 18 patients with TSC who underwent SEEG (mean age = 11.5 years). The dominant tuber (DT) was defined as the most epileptogenic tuber using the epileptogenicity index. Epileptogenic zone (EZ) organization was quantitatively separated into focal (isolated DT) and complex (all other patterns). Using a 20‐min interictal recording, FC was estimated with nonlinear regression, h2. We calculated (1) intrazone FC within all sampled tubers and normal‐appearing cortical zones, respectively; and (2) interzone FC involving connections between DT, other tubers, and normal cortex. The relationship between FC and (1) presence of ES as a current seizure type at the time of SEEG, (2) EZ organization, and (3) epileptogenicity was analyzed using a mixed generalized linear model. Spike rate and distance between zones were considered in the model as covariates.

Results

Six patients had ES as a current seizure type at time of SEEG. ES patients had a greater number of tubers with a fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery hypointense center (p < .001), and none had TSC1 mutations. The presence of ES was independently associated with increased FC within both intrazone (p = .033) and interzone (p = .011) networks. Post hoc analyses identified that increased FC was associated with ES across tuber and nontuber networks. EZ organization and epileptogenicity biomarkers were not associated with FC.

Significance

Increased cortical synchrony among both tuber and nontuber networks is characteristic of patients with ES and independent of both EZ organization and tuber epileptogenicity. This further supports the prospect of FC biomarkers aiding treatment paradigms in TSC.
Linear pricing game based power control with resource allocation and interference management in device‐to‐device communication for IoT applications
Authors: Pandey Krishna , Arya Rajeev
Published: July 2022

Device‐to‐Device (D2D) communication is one of the leading technologies which works under the aegis of fifth generation (5G) communication for the Internet of Things in Healthcare. In D2D communication, power control with resource allocation is the most challenging area for the research to make them suitable for IoT devices. In the present work, power control with resource allocation is done by using the Linear pricing game power allocation method. First, a mathematical min‐function based problem is proposed whilst taking the interference, data rate and minimum power requirement as a constraint to ensure the resource and power allocation. In the next phase, a linear pricing game (LPG) method is utilized to propose the LPG power control with resource allocation (L‐PaRAG). Mathematical analysis and theorem ensure the minimum cost function with global stability for an optimal solution of the proposed problem. Numerical analysis and results show that the proposed algorithm gives the best results for power control and resource management whilst managing the interference to maintain the quality of services (QoS) in D2D communication. Optimized power can be utilized for the communication between the base station and D2D users, especially, during disaster management.
Infants who experience more adult‐initiated conversations have better expressive language in toddlerhood
Authors: Salo Virginia C. , King Lucy S. , Gotlib Ian H. , Humphreys Kathryn L.
Published: July 2022

To understand how infants become engaged in conversations with their caregivers, we examined who tends to initiate conversations between adults and infants, differences between the features of infant‐ and adult‐initiated conversations, and whether individual differences in how much infants engage in infant‐ or adult‐initiated conversations uniquely predict later language development. We analyzed naturalistic adult–infant conversations captured via passive recording of the daily environment in two samples of 6‐month‐old infants. In Study 1, we found that at age 6 months, infants typically engage in more adult‐ than infant‐initiated conversations and that adult‐initiated conversations are, on average, longer and contain more adult words. In Study 2, we replicated these findings and, further, found that infants who engaged in more adult‐initiated conversations in infancy had better expressive language at age 18 months. This association remained significant when accounting for the number of infant‐initiated conversations at 6 months. Our findings indicate that early interactions with caregivers can have a lasting impact on children's language development, and that the extent to which parents initiate interactions with their infants may be particularly important.
Negotiating the Art of Protest through Craftivism
Authors: Sanders‐Bustle Lynn
Published: July 2022

At a time of seemingly endless political and social unrest across the globe, many are reacting strongly to injustices and oppression through protest and other forms of resistance. Key among efforts are the ways that art can be used as a form of activism as is expressed through craftivism or the merging of art and craft. Often associated with domestic and feminist materials, proponents claim that craftivism offers an alternative to more demonstrative forms of protest yet critics claim it to be a mostly white, global north form of activism that lacks inclusivity. This article explores the perspectives of university undergraduates enrolled in an introductory craftivism course to understand how their exploration of craftivism, contributed to or challenged their understanding of protest and activism. In this interpretive inquiry, the researcher examines student's written artefacts and research fieldnotes. Findings suggest that the students gained a greater understanding of their beliefs about protest and the nuances and relational intricacies associated with protest, resistance and social action. They also recognised that acts of resistance, fall along a spectrum of negotiations across varying intentions and can fall short of arresting, dismantling and eradicating injustices and if not carefully implemented can even marginalise or disregard the intentions and ideas of others.
Structural violence: An evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Jackson Brianna , Sadler Lois S.
Published: July 2022

Aims

To enhance conceptual clarity and interdisciplinary understanding of structural violence, and to illuminate its implications for contemporary social justice and health equity research, by: (1) synthesizing scholarly literature pertaining to structural violence and health; (2) defining its key attributes, antecedents, consequences and characteristics; (3) contextually situating this phenomenon over time and across disciplines.

Design

A comprehensive review of scholarly health literature pertaining to ‘structural violence’ or its surrogate term ‘structural determinants of health’ was guided by a Research and Education Librarian.

Data Sources

In November 2019 and again in April 2021, CINAHL, Embase, Global Health, Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed and Scopus electronic databases were searched for peer‐reviewed articles that described structural violence in the context of health. Of the 238 unique records identified, 32 articles were selected for inclusion and comprise the review sample.

Review Methods

Using Beth Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis method, articles were comparatively analysed to identify key attributes, antecedents and consequences associated with the concept's use in health research.

Results

The five interrelated attributes characterizing structural violence are: power, marginality, oppression, adversity and trauma. Hegemonic social, cultural, economic and political systems serve as antecedents, whilst the consequences of structural violence can be broadly classified as health inequity, injustice and indignity, and social disorganization.

Conclusion

This analysis contributes to conceptual clarity and mutual understanding of the usage, application and significance of structural violence across health disciplines and provides a strong foundation for continued concept development and operationalization. Further research is needed to substantiate the relationship between structural violence and health inequity.