bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating an atlas of the bone microenvironment during oral inflammatory-related bone disease using single-cell profiling
Authors: Fan Yi , Lyu Ping , Bi Ruiye , Cui Chen , Xu Ruoshi , Rosen Clifford J. , Yuan Quan , Zhou Chenchen
Published: September 2022

Oral inflammatory diseases such as apical periodontitis are common bacterial infectious diseases that may affect the periapical alveolar bone tissues. A protective healing process occurs simultaneously with the inflammatory tissue destruction, in which mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a primary role. However, a systematic and precise description of the cellular and molecular composition of the microenvironment of bone affected by inflammation is lacking. In this study, we created a single cell atlas of cell populations that compose alveolar bone in healthy and inflammatory disease states. We investigated changes in expression frequency and patterns related to apical periodontitis, as well as the interactions between MSCs and immunocytes. Our results highlight an enhanced self-supporting network and osteogenic potential within MSCs during apical periodontitis-associated inflammation. MSCs not only differentiated towards osteoblast lineage cells, but also expressed higher levels of osteogenic related markers, including SPARC and Col1α1. This was confirmed by lineage tracing in transgenic mouse models and human samples from oral inflammatory-related alveolar bone lesions. In summary, the current study provides an in-depth description of the microenvironment of MSCs and immunocytes in both healthy and disease states. We also identified key apical periodontitis-associated MSC subclusters and their biomarkers, which could further our understanding of the healing process and the underlying mechanisms of oral inflammatory-related bone disease. Taken together, these results enhance our understanding of heterogeneity and cellular interactions of alveolar bone cells under pathogenic and inflammatory conditions. We provide these data as a tool for investigators not only to better appreciate the repertoire of progenitors that are stress responsive but importantly to help design new therapeutic targets to restore bone lesions caused by apical periodontitis and other inflammatory-related bone diseases.
IL-10 suppresses T cell expansion while promoting tissue-resident memory cell formation during SARS-CoV-2 infection in rhesus macaques
Authors: Nelson Christine E. , Foreman Taylor W. , Kauffman Keith D. , Sakai Shunsuke , Gould Sydnee T. , Fleegle Joel D. , Gomez Felipe ,   NIAID/DIR Tuberculosis Imaging Program, Le Nouën Cyril , Liu Xueqiao , Burdette Tracey L. , Garza Nicole L. , Lafont Bernard A. P. , Brooks Kelsie , Arlehamn Cecilia S. Lindestam , Weiskopf Daniela , Sette Alessandro , Hickman Heather D. , Buchholz Ursula J. , Johnson Reed F. , Brenchley Jason M. , Via Laura E. , Barber Daniel L.
Published: September 2022

The pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways that determine the balance of inflammation and viral control during SARS-CoV-2 infection are not well understood. Here we examine the roles of IFNγ and IL-10 in regulating inflammation, immune cell responses and viral replication during SARS-CoV-2 infection of rhesus macaques. IFNγ blockade tended to decrease lung inflammation based on 18FDG-PET/CT imaging but had no major impact on innate lymphocytes, neutralizing antibodies, or antigen-specific T cells. In contrast, IL-10 blockade transiently increased lung inflammation and enhanced accumulation of virus-specific T cells in the lower airways. However, IL-10 blockade also inhibited the differentiation of virus-specific T cells into airway CD69+CD103+ TRM cells. While virus-specific T cells were undetectable in the nasal mucosa of all groups, IL-10 blockade similarly reduced the frequency of total TRM cells in the nasal mucosa. Neither cytokine blockade substantially affected viral load and infection ultimately resolved. Thus, in the macaque model of mild COVID-19, the pro- and anti-inflammatory effects of IFNγ and IL-10 have no major role in control of viral replication. However, IL-10 has a key role in suppressing the accumulation of SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells in the lower airways, while also promoting TRM at respiratory mucosal surfaces.
Characterization of the cytopathic effect of monkeypox virus isolated from clinical specimens and differentiation from common viral exanthems
Authors: Ma Angela , Langer Janine , Hanson Kimberly E. , Bradley Benjamin T.
Published: September 2022

While the practice of viral culture has largely been replaced by nucleic acid amplification tests, circumstances still exist in which the availability of viral culture will allow for the diagnosis of infections not included in a provider’s differential diagnosis. Here, we examine the cytopathic effect (CPE) and clinical data associated with eighteen cases of monkeypox virus (MPXV) isolated from nineteen clinical samples submitted for viral culture. During the study period a total of 3,468 viral cultures were performed with herpes simplex virus most commonly isolated (646/3,468; 18.6%), followed by monkeypox virus (19/3,468; 0.6%) and varicella zoster virus (12/3,468; 0.4%). Most MPXV-positive samples were obtained from males (14/19) and taken from genital (7/19) or rectal lesions (5/19). Cycle threshold values of tested samples ranged from 15.3 to 29.0. Growth of MPXV in cell culture was rapid, yielding detectable CPE at a median of 2 days (range: 1-4) often with >50% of the monolayer affected in RMK, BGM, A549, and MRC-5 cell lines. As clinical features of MPXV, HSV, and VZV lesions may overlap, CPE patterns were comparted between viruses. HSV CPE developed in a similar time frame (median: 2 days, range: 1-7) but was more often negative in RMK cells relative to MPXV. VZV grew more slowly (median: 9 days, range: 5-11) and demonstrated CPE affecting ≤25% of cell monolayers when positive. Viral culture remains an important tool for the detection of rare or emerging viral pathogens, particularly when high viral load specimens are easily obtained.
HLA variants and TCR diversity against SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-COVID-19 era
Authors: Buhler Stéphane , Sollet Zuleika Calderin , Bettens Florence , Schaefer Antonia , Ansari Marc , Ferrari-Lacraz Sylvie , Villard Jean
Published: September 2022

HLA antigen presentation and T-cell immunity are critical to control viral infection such as SARS-CoV-2. This study performed on samples collected in the pre-COVID-19 era demonstrates that individuals are fully equiped at the genetic level in terms of TCR repertoire and HLA variants to recognize and kill SARS-CoV-2 infected cells. HLA diversity, heterologous immunity and random somatic TCR recombination could explain these observations.
Mechanical stretching of a perfect single crystal: a routeway to a d-spacing tunable X-ray monochromator
Authors: Cusatis Cesar , Piragibe Barros Silva Borges Egon , Tirao Germán Alfredo , Honnicke Marcelo Goncalves
Published: September 2022

The feasibility of using traction forces to produce mechanical stretching/shrinkage in a perfect Si 400 single crystal is explored theoretically (by finite element analysis and dynamical theory of X-ray diffraction) and experimentally in order to use it as an angular static interplanar-distance (d-spacing) tunable monochromator, in the Bragg case. It is shown that, with traction forces of ∼100 N and an appropriate pre-load, it is possible to scan, with a linear response and reproducibility of ∼5%, a 30 eV bandwidth, which corresponds to a d-spacing scan of 7 × 10−3 Å.
The Scatman: an approximate method for fast wide-angle scattering simulations
Authors: Colombo Alessandro , Zimmermann Julian , Langbehn Bruno , Möller Thomas , Peltz Christian , Sander Katharina , Kruse Björn , Tümmler Paul , Barke Ingo , Rupp Daniela , Fennel Thomas
Published: September 2022

Single-shot coherent diffraction imaging (CDI) is a powerful approach to characterize the structure and dynamics of isolated nanoscale objects such as single viruses, aerosols, nanocrystals and droplets. Using X-ray wavelengths, the diffraction images in CDI experiments usually cover only small scattering angles of a few degrees. These small-angle patterns represent the magnitude of the Fourier transform of the 2D projection of the sample's electron density, which can be reconstructed efficiently but lacks any depth information. In cases where the diffracted signal can be measured up to scattering angles exceeding ∼10°, i.e. in the wide-angle regime, some 3D morphological information of the target is contained in a single-shot diffraction pattern. However, the extraction of the 3D structural information is no longer straightforward and defines the key challenge in wide-angle CDI. So far, the most convenient approach relies on iterative forward fitting of the scattering pattern using scattering simulations. Here the Scatman is presented, an approximate and fast numerical tool for the simulation and iterative fitting of wide-angle scattering images of isolated samples. Furthermore, the open-source software implementation of the Scatman algorithm, PyScatman, is published and described in detail. The Scatman approach, which has already been applied in previous work for forward-fitting-based shape retrieval, adopts the multi-slice Fourier transform method. The effects of optical properties are partially included, yielding quantitative results for small, isolated and weakly interacting samples. PyScatman is capable of computing wide-angle scattering patterns in a few milliseconds even on consumer-level computing hardware, potentially enabling new data analysis schemes for wide-angle coherent diffraction experiments.
How do non-economic goals and priorities affect family firm’s propensity to innovate in automation? The role of ownership, board of director, young successor and generation
Authors: Bannò Mariasole , D'Allura Giorgia Maria , Filippi Emilia , Trento Sandro
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study examines the propensity to innovate in automation of family firms (FFs) based on the socio-emotional wealth (SEW) perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This study’s analysis is based on three aspects. First, the authors consider three main non-economic goals and priorities of FFs: the family’s relationship with employees (read as to care for their satisfaction and well-being); the inner pride of building and maintaining the family and firm image and reputation; and the inner feeling to be socially responsible. Second, the authors consider how these goals and priorities vary among FFs according to four dimensions: family ownership, the presence of family members on the board of directors, the involvement of young successors, and the presence of founding and later generations. Finally, the consequences of automation are considered: lower firm employment, lower employees’ satisfaction and well-being, and higher firm productivity. The analysis is based on a sample of 4,150 Italian firms.

Findings

The analysis revealed that FFs are less prone to innovate in automation than non-FFs. Specifically, family ownership, the presence of family members on the board of directors, and the presence of founding generation are negatively associated with innovation in automation. Instead, the involvement of young successors and the presence of later generation are positively associated with innovation in automation.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first investigation that, based on SEW, examines how FFs act on the decision to innovate in automation, thereby providing empirical evidence.
Living heritage sites in the M'zab valley (Algeria): community and continuity
Authors: Rezaei Naimeh , Khouadja Abdelaziz
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The ancient settlements of the M'zab Valley in Algeria, called ksour, are still being used by local inhabitants a thousand years after their construction. The main objective of this study was to discover why, despite the formation of new residential areas, these settlements have been able to survive and maintain their original functions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the concept of living heritage sites as an analytical framework. The field data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed through qualitative content analysis.

Findings

This study revealed that the reasons for the survival of these settlements were cultural and social rather than physical. Four main factors play a role in the survival of these settlements: (1) solidarity and unity among the inhabitants, (2) built environment as an ancestral heritage and a symbol of identity, (3) comfort and convenience in ksour and (4) social control and adherence to tradition. However, some concerns have arisen in recent decades that may endanger the viability of these settlements in the future, requiring more attention from the government.

Originality/value

While previous studies on urban heritage and World Heritage Sites (WHSs) have mainly focused on tourism development and conservation issues, this paper emphasized a less-studied aspect of these sites, i.e. continuity and sustainability. All previous studies on the WHSs of the M'zab Valley have addressed the traditional architecture and the climatic design of houses without sufficiently addressing other factors that have contributed to the sustainability and resilience of these settlements.
Examining resilience: the role of creativity-oriented high-performance work practices and role clarity
Authors: Aparna S.M. , Sahney Sangeeta
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to highlight the understated role of creativity in R&D organizations by exploring the effect of creativity-oriented high-performance work practices (CHPWPs) on resilience. The moderator effect of role clarity (RC) on the association between CHPWPs and resilience is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The study proposes a simple moderation model to understand the relationship, and specifically hierarchical regression analysis (SPSS 22.0) and SPSS PROCESS Macro has been used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Findings revealed that the implementation of CHPWPs would significantly improve resilience. The benefits of CHPWPs on resilience get compromised as the organizations lay stress on higher levels of RC.

Practical implications

Indian R&D organizations must emphasize upon enhancing resilience through a set of CHPWPs. Rather than laying greater stress on RC, these organizations should build a creative climate characterized by experimentation, freedom and a free flow of ideas.

Originality/value

The current study makes a valuable contribution by highlighting the importance of creativity and resilience in organizations. Although conceptual studies highlight the importance of creativity in R&D organizations, this has been was greatly neglected. The current study adds value to the existing literature by deepening the authors’ understanding of the role of CHPWPs in enhancing resilience, the latter being a subject of huge focus of organizations during the pandemic.
Dynamic responses of energy prices to oil price shocks
Authors: Miller Tom W.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study examines the dynamic responses of five different daily energy prices to a pulse shock affecting the daily price of oil.

Design/methodology/approach

Daily data for energy prices from the Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) database for January 7, 1997, through February 8, 2021, are analyzed. A bivariate structural vector error correction model and generalized autoregressive conditionally heteroscedastic model are combined and extended by adding the volatility of the growth rate of daily oil prices as an explanatory variable for the growth rates of energy prices. This model is estimated and used to generate impulse responses for energy prices.

Findings

The empirical results show that the levels of the daily energy prices examined have unit roots, are integrated of order one, are cointegrated, and generally revert slowly to their long-term equilibrium relationships with the price of oil. The growth rates for the daily energy prices have autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity, generally are positively related to the volatility of daily oil prices, respond quickly to a pulse shock to daily oil prices, and have cumulative responses that last at least one month.

Originality/value

This paper allows for simultaneous estimation of extended bivariate structural vector error correction and generalized autoregressive conditionally heteroscedastic models that include the volatility of oil as an explanatory variable and uses these models to generated cumulative impulse responses for the growth rates of daily energy prices to oil price shocks.
Stewardship theory of corporate governance and succession planning in family businesses of UAE: views of the owners
Authors: Jasir Mohamed , Khan Naimat U. , Barghathi Yasser
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore corporate governance (CG) and succession planning in family-owned businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews are conducted with 16 owners and heirs of UAE family businesses. The interviews – face-to-face and asynchronous electronic – are conducted instead of a questionnaire to get an in-depth analysis of the topic in the context of both medium- and large-sized family businesses.

Findings

The responses are mixed with regard to governance challenges (duality, gender, internal control, transparency, etc.). The majority of the interviewees indicate that succession planning remains one of the biggest challenges for family businesses in the UAE. Fifteen of the sixteen interviewees document that a sound succession strategy must be in place to ensure the continuity of the business and prevent future disputes among potential successors. Similarly, the respondents also emphasise the importance of transparency and accountability for the sustainability of family businesses. The sustainability of family businesses relies on many aspects, such as national regulations, corporate systems and the succession process. Finally, most of the respondents from medium-sized companies opined that incorporating CG is a time-consuming and expensive process.

Practical implications

The interviewees supported stewardship theory in case family members are occupying positions on the board as they have more long-term commitment and a greater sense of belonging to the business (socio-emotional wealth) compared to non-family members. The interviewees acknowledge that the lack of professionalism and conflicts of interest among family members can be offset by recruiting non-family members.

Originality/value

Family businesses are particularly significant in the Arab world as they account for over 60% of gross domestic product (GDP) and use above 80% of the workforce which make them interesting research subject. In addition, this paper explores the CG challenges faced by both large- and medium-sized family businesses in the UAE within the theoretical framework of stewardship theory.
Predicting spatio‐temporal population patterns of Borrelia burgdorferi, the Lyme disease pathogen
Authors: Tran Tam , Prusinski Melissa A. , White Jennifer L. , Falco Richard C. , Kokas John , Vinci Vanessa , Gall Wayne K. , Tober Keith J. , Haight Jamie , Oliver JoAnne , Sporn Lee Ann , Meehan Lisa , Banker Elyse , Backenson P. Bryon , Jensen Shane T. , Brisson Dustin
Published: September 2022

The causative bacterium of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, expanded from an undetected human pathogen into the etiologic agent of the most common vector‐borne disease in the United States over the last several decades. Systematic field collections of the tick vector reveal increases in the geographic range and prevalence of B. burgdorferi–infected ticks that coincided with increases in human Lyme disease incidence across New York State.

We investigate the impact of environmental features on the population dynamics of B. burgdorferi. Analytical models developed using field collections of nearly 19,000 nymphal Ixodes scapularis and spatially and temporally explicit environmental features accurately explained the variation in the nymphal infection prevalence of B. burgdorferi across space and time.

Importantly, the model identified environmental features reflecting landscape ecology, vertebrate hosts, climatic metrics, climate anomalies and surveillance efforts that can be used to predict the biogeographical patterns of B. burgdorferi–infected ticks into future years and in previously unsampled areas.

Forecasting the distribution and prevalence of a pathogen at fine geographic scales offers a powerful strategy to mitigate a serious public health threat.

Synthesis and applications. A decade of environmental and tick data was collected to create a model that accurately predicts the infection prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi over space and time. This predictive model can be extrapolated to create a high‐resolution risk map of the Lyme disease pathogen for future years that offers an inexpensive approach to improve both ecological management and public health strategies to mitigate disease risk.
Control on moisture distribution and protein changes of Antarctic krill meat by antifreeze protein during multiple freeze–thaw cycles
Authors: Diao Huayu , Lin Songyi , Li Dongmei , Li Shuang , Feng Qi , Sun Na
Published: September 2022

Control on the moisture distribution, protein structure changes, and protein degradation of Antarctic krill meat during freeze–thaw (F–T) cycles by presoaking with antifreeze protein (AFP) was investigated. The results from the thawing loss rate and cooking loss rate indicated that 0.1% was the optimal AFP concentration. Magnetic resonance imaging and low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance results showed that AFP inhibited the changes in moisture distribution and maintained the moisture in Antarctic krill meat. The contents of nonprotein nitrogen and trichloroacetic acid‐soluble peptides indicated that AFP reduced protein degradation. Further, SDS‐PAGE showed that AFP reduced the degradation of actin, troponin T, and myosin light chain. The results of fluorescence spectra, circular dichroism, and chemical bond contents indicated that AFP reduced the damage of the protein tertiary and secondary structures of Antarctic krill meat by holding it in a weak polar environment. This study supplied basic theory for the quality control of Antarctic krill meat.

Practical Application

Protein degradation, moisture distribution, and protein structure changes occurred to Antarctic krill meat during freeze–thaw cycles due to ice crystal growth and recrystallization, which leads to the decrease in quality. Antifreeze protein has been proven to avoid ice crystals’ growth and inhibit ice recrystallization. During freeze–thaw cycles, the moisture distribution of Antarctic krill meat treated with antifreeze protein was more uniform, the degree of protein degradation was lower, and the protein structure was protected. This study demonstrated the potential of antifreeze protein as a water and protein protectant of Antarctic krill meat during freeze–thaw cycles.
Physicochemical characterization of cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) fruits ecotype Colombia during preharvest development and growth
Authors: Avendaño William A. , Muñoz Hector F. , Leal Lina J. , Deaquiz Yuli A. , Castellanos Diego A.
Published: September 2022

Cape gooseberry fruits are increasingly recognized due to their excellent organoleptic and functional characteristics as a food. As the cultivation of this fruit expands, it is necessary to determine the quality characteristics and evolution of the new growing zones. This study sought to characterize the growth and development of cape gooseberry fruits, Ecotype Colombia, in the Ventaquemada region (Department of Boyacá in Colombia). For the experiments, 50 plants were taken completely at random from which 20 flowers of the middle third were selected and marked considering that 50% of the flowers were open. The selected cape gooseberry plants were 9 months old from the establishment. Samples were carried out every 5–7 days to evaluate changes in different physiological and physicochemical properties of the fruits such as equatorial diameter, weight, dry matter, respiration intensity (RI), total soluble solids (SST), titratable acidity (TA), and maturity ratio (SST/TA). Logistic and modified enzyme kinetics models were fitted to represent the change in these characteristics as a function of growth time and to establish a suitable maturity index. A rapid increase in the growth and a substantive change in the properties of the fruits were observed between 36 and 45 days after anthesis (DAA) and stabilization between 60 and 65 DAA, which constitutes the stage of physiological maturity. At this stage, fruits with a polar/equatorial diameter of 2.2–2.5 cm, 14.9% TSS, 2.2% TA, and 191.7 cm3 CO2/g/d RI were obtained. Likewise, from the adjusted models, it was possible to identify these changes, especially for the relative growth rate (RGR), color index, and maturity ratio.

Practical Application

In this work, we present the characterization of some physicochemical properties of cape gooseberry throughout its development and preharvest growth. This fruit is of wide interest due to its broad nutritional properties and is known as a “superfruit.” The monitoring of the changes in the quality characteristics is important because it allows producers to define an optimum maturity stage for its commercialization. We also fit suitable regression models to relate the evolution in the product as a function of time and provide prediction tools to monitor fruit development. The above can help growers better schedule their production cycles.
Physicochemical, functional, and digestive characteristics of tea seed cake protein obtained by ultrafiltration
Authors: Liang Li , Xiao Yali , Zhang Jixian , Liu Xiaofang , Wen Chaoting , Zhang Huijuan , Wang Jing , Ren Jiaoyan , Liu Guoyan , Xu Xin
Published: September 2022

To make full use of tea seed cake protein (TSCP), this study investigated the physicochemical and functional properties of TSCP, including the TSCP extract and three ultrafiltration fractions TSCP‐1 (Mw > 10 kDa), TSCP‐2 (3.5 kDa < Mw < 10 kDa), and TSCP‐3 (Mw < 3.5 kDa). After ultrafiltration, the content, thermal stability, and surface hydrophobicity of TSCP were increased, and the molecular weight distribution and structure of TSCP showed significant differences. In terms of functionality, each fraction showed its advantages. Specifically, compared with the others, TSCP had better solubility and foaming properties, and TSCP‐1 had significantly higher oil absorption capacity, and TSCP‐2 had better water absorption capacity and emulsifying properties, and TSCP‐3 can flow more easily (p < 0.05). In terms of nutritional value, the content of essential amino acids in all samples was sufficient. The degree of hydrolysis of TSCP was highest (80.98 ± 1.50%), and ultrafiltration decreased digestibility. These results indicated that ultrafiltration effectively improved the structure and functional properties of TSCP, and the obtained fractions can be applied to different scenarios.

Practical Application: Tea seed cakes are rich in protein and usually regarded as byproducts during oil processing. Because of its good functional properties, tea seed cake proteins obtained by ultrafiltration have the potential to be used as ingredients for food.
Cannabis use selectively modulates circulating biomarkers in the blood of schizophrenia patients
Authors: Ibarra‐Lecue Inés , Unzueta‐Larrinaga Paula , Barrena‐Barbadillo Rocío , Villate Aitor , Horrillo Igor , Mendivil Begoña , Landabaso Miguel A. , Meana J. Javier , Etxebarria Nestor , Callado Luis F. , Urigüen Leyre
Published: September 2022

Cannabis use disorder is frequent in schizophrenia patients, and it is associated with an earlier age of onset and poor schizophrenia prognosis. Serotonin 2A receptors (5‐HT2AR) have been involved in psychosis and, like Akt kinase, are known to be modulated by THC. Likewise, endocannabinoid system dysregulation has been suggested in schizophrenia. The presence of these molecules in blood makes them interesting targets, as they can be evaluated in patients by a minimally invasive technique. The aim of the present study was to evaluate 5‐HT2AR protein expression and the Akt functional status in platelet homogenates of subjects diagnosed with schizophrenia, cannabis use disorder, or both conditions, compared with age‐ and sex‐matched control subjects. Additionally, endocannabinoids and pro‐inflammatory interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels were also measured in the plasma of these subjects. Results showed that both platelet 5‐HT2AR and the active phospho (Ser473)Akt protein expression were significantly increased in schizophrenia subjects, whereas patients with a dual diagnosis of schizophrenia and cannabis use disorder did not show significant changes. Similarly, plasma concentrations of anandamide and other lipid mediators such as PEA and DEA, as well as the pro‐inflammatory IL‐6, were significantly increased in schizophrenia, but not in dual subjects. Results demonstrate that schizophrenia subjects show different circulating markers pattern depending on the associated diagnosis of cannabis use disorder, supporting the hypothesis that there could be different underlying mechanisms that may explain clinical differences among these groups. Moreover, they provide the first preliminary evidence of peripherally measurable molecules of interest for bigger prospective studies in these subpopulations.
Social Reproduction of Post‐Soviet Migrant Labour: Braiding the International Political Economy
Authors: Kangas Anni , Krivonos Daria , Khidjobova Safina , Omonillaeva Zarnigor , Jitlina Olga , Tereshkina Anna , Kiromova Mahpora
Published: September 2022

In this article, we analyse the social reproduction of post‐Soviet migrant labour. Our inquiry builds on artwork by Olga Jitlina and Anna Tereshkina and by Mahpora Kiromova dealing with the effects of migration on family relations in Central Asia and the South Caucasus. We have braided the artwork with strands of social reproduction theory to examine the transnational household as a set of relationships that enables post‐Soviet and global capitalism to draw value out of unwaged work and to reproduce the differentiated (i.e. gendered and racialised) labour force. Our focus is on the tropes of family, weddings, love, and violence. The analysis of these tropes draws attention to the intersecting effects of globalised capitalism, local structures of value, the state, and patriarchy in post‐Soviet political economy. Through them we detail the fundamental co‐constitution of production and social reproduction, but also show that practices of social reproduction can be reservoirs of resistance and potential change.
Evoked sensations with transcutaneous electrical stimulation with different frequencies, waveforms, and electrode configurations
Authors: Imatz‐Ojanguren Eukene , Keller Thierry
Published: September 2022

Background

Current Perception Threshold (CPT) is a technique used for diagnostic purposes that applies sinusoidal currents transcutaneously at 5 Hz, 250 Hz, and 2KHz to preferentially excite C, Aδ, and Aβ afferent nerve fibers correspondingly. This fact may be interesting for evoking different electrotactile sensations for a wide variety of applications.

Methods

Sensations evoked by 5 Hz, 250 Hz, and 2KHz frequencies; sinusoidal, square, and 250 μs‐pulsed waveforms; and conventional and concentric electrode configurations were analyzed in 19 healthy volunteers. Stimuli were applied in the dorsum of the hand in a double‐blind manner and CPTs were defined based on participants' verbal feedback. After each stimulus participants filled in a form with sensation modality, irradiation, intensity, and emotion descriptors.

Results

The frequency showed a significant effect on the four domains of evoked sensations and the waveform showed a significant effect on the modality domain. For most waveform and electrode configuration combinations, 5 Hz evoked mostly a low‐intensity prickling sensation; 250 Hz mostly evoked an uncomfortable medium‐intensity tingling sensation; and 2KHz mostly evoked a low‐intensity tingling sensation. No thermal or noxious sensations were evoked. A significant interaction effect was only found between the frequency and the waveform factors. The electrode configuration did not show either a significant effect on the evoked sensations or an interaction effect with the frequency or waveform type.

Conclusions

Transcutaneous electrical stimulation may evoke different sensations at different frequencies due to the preferential activation of different fiber types. The results of these analysis could be used to enhance human‐machine/computer‐interaction systems based on electrotactile feedback.
The tax advantage of public firms over private firms in the German household solid waste disposal industry
Authors: Krause Marko , Lahmann Alexander
Published: September 2022

We measure the tax advantage of public firms over private firms, which operate at municipality level in the German household solid waste disposal industry. Public firms with sovereign duties pay no taxes, but equivalent private firms have to. In a simple risk‐free setting, we develop a measure of the percentage difference of the charges of both types of firms demanded under their respective tax treatments. We model a cost‐covering public firm and a net present value maximizing private firm. For sensible model parameters from the German waste disposal industry the private firm has to demand an about 16% to 18% higher charge. The by far biggest impact on the measure has the value added tax, with revenues as a much larger tax base than profits. Tax savings, which directly affect pre‐tax profits, only alleviate the disadvantage bit. There is some evidence that at least one type of private firms—that is, private law firms that are also majority privately owned, are productive enough to overcome the tax advantage of public firms and be able to charge a lower price than public firms.
Effects of person–occupation political orientation misfit on occupational identification: An experimental study
Authors: Zacher Hannes , Rudolph Cort W.
Published: September 2022

Researchers and practitioners have become increasingly interested in the role of political orientation in the workplace. Importantly, people do not always agree with other members of their profession when it comes to politics. However, the effects of such person–occupation political orientation misfit on people's work‐related attitudes remain unclear. According to the social identity perspective, person–occupation political orientation misfit is likely to lead to the experience of identity threat, which in turn should negatively impact people's occupational identification. To address this idea empirically, the goal of this study was to examine the influence of different political depictions of the field of industrial and organizational (I–O) psychology (i.e. as generally neoliberal, left‐wing, pluralistic, or neutral) on I–O psychologists' occupational identification, depending on their personal political orientation (i.e. more or less liberal vs. conservative). Specifically, we hypothesized that experiencing person–occupation political orientation misfit would reduce occupational identification. Results of an experiment (n = 800 I–O psychology academics and practitioners) provided some support for this hypothesis, suggesting specifically that person–occupation political orientation misfit might alienate people with a more conservative political orientation from their occupation.
Smartphone use and daily cognitive failures: A critical examination using a daily diary approach with objective smartphone measures
Authors: Hartanto Andree , Lee Kristine Y. X. , Chua Yi Jing , Quek Frosch Y. X. , Majeed Nadyanna M.
Published: September 2022

While smartphones have brought many benefits and conveniences to users, there is continuing debate regarding their potential negative consequences on everyday cognition such as daily cognitive failures. A few cross‐sectional studies have found positive associations between smartphone use and cognitive failures. However, several research gaps remain, such as the use of cross‐sectional designs, confounds related to stable individual differences, the lack of validity in self‐report measures of smartphone use, memory biases in retrospective self‐reports, and the lack of differentiation between smartphone checking and smartphone screen time. To simultaneously address the aforementioned shortcomings, the current study examined the within‐person associations between various objective indicators of smartphone use and daily cognitive failures using a 7‐day daily diary study. Multilevel modelling revealed that smartphone checking, but not total smartphone screen time, predicted a greater occurrence of daily cognitive failures at the within‐person level. Surprisingly, we also found negative within‐person associations between smartphone screen time for social‐ and tools‐related applications and daily cognitive failures, suggesting that some types of smartphone use may temporarily benefit one's cognitive functioning. This finding demonstrates the importance of studying the specific functions of smartphone use and their differential cognitive consequences, as well as highlights the complex relations between smartphone use and cognition.
Penalization approaches in the conditional maximum likelihood and Rasch modelling context
Authors: Gürer Can , Draxler Clemens
Published: September 2022

Recent detection methods for Differential Item Functioning (DIF) include approaches like Rasch Trees, DIFlasso, GPCMlasso and Item Focussed Trees, all of which ‐ in contrast to well established methods ‐ can handle metric covariates inducing DIF. A new estimation method shall address their downsides by mainly aiming at combining three central virtues: the use of conditional likelihood for estimation, the incorporation of linear influence of metric covariates on item difficulty and the possibility to detect different DIF types: certain items showing DIF, certain covariates inducing DIF, or certain covariates inducing DIF in certain items. Each of the approaches mentioned lacks in two of these aspects. We introduce a method for DIF detection, which firstly utilizes the conditional likelihood for estimation combined with group Lasso‐penalization for item or variable selection and L1‐penalization for interaction selection, secondly incorporates linear effects instead of approximation through step functions, and thirdly provides the possibility to investigate any of the three DIF types. The method is described theoretically, challenges in implementation are discussed. A dataset is analysed for all DIF types and shows comparable results between methods. Simulation studies per DIF type reveal competitive performance of cmlDIFlasso, particularly when selecting interactions in case of large sample sizes and numbers of parameters. Coupled with low computation times, cmlDIFlasso seems a worthwhile option for applied DIF detection.
HMGA2 drives the IGFBP1/AKT pathway to counteract the increase in P27KIP1 protein levels in mtDNA/RNA‐less cancer cells
Authors: Maruyama Tsuyoshi , Saito Koji , Higurashi Masato , Ishikawa Fumihiro , Kohno Yohko , Mori Kazunori , Shibanuma Motoko
Published: September 2022

Recent comprehensive analyses of mtDNA and orthogonal RNA‐sequencing data revealed that in numerous human cancers, mtDNA copy numbers and mtRNA amounts are significantly reduced, followed by low respiratory gene expression. Under such conditions (called mt‐Low), cells encounter severe cell proliferation defects; therefore, they must acquire countermeasures against this fatal disadvantage during malignant transformation. This study elucidated a countermeasure against the mt‐Low condition‐induced antiproliferative effects in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. The mechanism relied on the architectural transcriptional regulator HMGA2, which was preferably expressed in HCC cells of the mt‐Low type in vitro and in vivo. Detailed in vitro analyses suggest that HMGA2 regulates insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) expression, leading to AKT activation, which then phosphorylates the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor (CKI), P27KIP1, and facilitates its ubiquitin‐mediated degradation. Accordingly, intervention in the HMGA2 function by RNAi resulted in an increase in P27KIP1 levels and an induction of senescence‐like cell proliferation inhibition in mt‐Low‐type HCC cells. Conclusively, the HMGA2/IGFBP1/AKT axis has emerged as a countermeasure against P27KIP1 CKI upregulation under mt‐Low conditions, thereby circumventing cell proliferation inhibition and supporting the tumorigenic state. Notably, similar to in vitro cell lines, HMGA2 was likely to regulate IGFBP1 expression in HCC in vivo, thereby contributing to poor patient prognosis. Considering the significant number of cases under mt‐Low or the threat of CKI upregulation cancer‐wide, the axis is noteworthy as a vulnerability of cancer cells or target for tumor‐agnostic therapy inducing irreversible cell proliferation inhibition via CKI upregulation in a large population with cancer.
A PI3Kγ signal regulates macrophage recruitment to injured tissue for regenerative cell survival
Authors: Zhou Siyu , Liu Zhengcheng , Kawakami Atsushi
Published: September 2022

The interaction between immune cells and injured tissues is crucial for regeneration. Previous studies have shown that macrophages attenuate inflammation caused by injuries to support the survival of primed regenerative cells. Macrophage loss in zebrafish mutants like cloche (clo) causes extensive apoptosis in the regenerative cells of the amputated larval fin fold. However, the mechanism of interaction between macrophage and injured tissue is poorly understood. Here, we show that a phosphoinositide 3‐kinase gamma (PI3Kγ)‐mediated signal is essential for recruiting macrophages to the injured tissue. PI3Kγ inhibition by the PI3Kγ‐specific inhibitor, 5‐quinoxalin‐6‐ylmethylene‐thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione (AS605240 or AS), displayed a similar apoptosis phenotype with that observed in clo mutants. We further show that PI3Kγ function during the early regenerative stage is necessary for macrophage recruitment to the injured site. Additionally, protein kinase B (Akt) overexpression in the AS‐treated larvae suggested that Akt is not the direct downstream mediator of PI3Kγ for macrophage recruitment, while it independently plays a role for the survival of regenerative cells. Together, our study reveals that PI3Kγ plays a role for recruiting macrophages in response to regeneration.
Variations in calling behaviour of wing dimorphic male crickets
Authors: Zeng Yang , Zhang Jiu‐Yun , Zhu Dao‐Hong
Published: September 2022

A trade‐off between flight and reproduction has been well studied in wing dimorphic female insects but less attention has been given to this trade‐off in males.

In this study, the authors analysed the differences in the calling behaviours of long‐winged (LW) and short‐winged (SW) male Velarifictorus aspersus crickets. Furthermore, the authors examined the effects of flight and wing dealation on the calling behaviour of LW males, as well as female preferences regarding the calling songs of males.

The results showed that SW males sang more often than LW males during the first 9 days after emergence, but there were no significant differences in the song characteristics of SW and LW males. A flight of 5 min increased the singing time by LW males without changing the song characteristics, but a flight of 30 min or wing dealation increased both the singing time and chirp number per song. In binomial choice trials, female crickets did not prefer SW calling song to unflown LW calling song. But when LW males had either flown 30 min or been dealated, females preferred LW to SW calling song.

Therefore, LW males may attract fewer females than SW males when they are preparing for dispersal, but this reproductive disadvantage may be absent during dispersal and the settling stage.
New links for meprin β within the protease web
Authors: Canbay Vahap , auf dem Keller Ulrich
Published: September 2022

Proteases are organised in interconnected networks, together forming the protease web whose disturbance can have detrimental consequences for tissue homeostasis and response to environmental insults. Membrane‐anchored sheddases are proteases that themselves can be released into the pericellular space by ectodomain shedding. Werny et al. have uncovered unexpected promiscuity in ectodomain shedding of meprin β, a metalloprotease with critical functions in inflammation and fibrosis. These findings suggest new links within complex proteolytic networks like the epidermal protease network with potential implications for skin homeostasis, inflammation and response to injury.

Comment on: https://doi.org/10.1111/febs.16586
Wet and dry extremes reduce arthropod biomass independently of leaf phenology in the wet tropics
Authors: Newell Felicity L. , Ausprey Ian J. , Robinson Scott K.
Published: September 2022

Warming temperatures are increasing rainfall extremes, yet arthropod responses to climatic fluctuations remain poorly understood. Here, we used spatiotemporal variation in tropical montane climate as a natural experiment to compare the importance of biotic versus abiotic drivers in regulating arthropod biomass. We combined intensive field data on arthropods, leaf phenology and in situ weather across a 1700–3100 m elevation and rainfall gradient, along with desiccation‐resistance experiments and multi‐decadal modelling. We found limited support for biotic drivers with weak increases in some herbivorous taxa on shrubs with new leaves, but no landscape‐scale effects of leaf phenology, which tracked light and cloud cover. Instead, rainfall explained extensive interannual variability with maximum biomass at intermediate rainfall (130 mm month−1) as both 3 months of high and low rainfall reduced arthropods by half. Based on 50 years of regional rainfall, our dynamic arthropod model predicted shifts in the timing of biomass maxima within cloud forests before plant communities transition to seasonally deciduous dry forests (mean annual rainfall 1000–2500 mm vs. <800 mm). Rainfall magnitude was the primary driver, but during high solar insolation, the ‘drying power of air’ (VPDmax) reduced biomass within days contributing to drought related to the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Highlighting risks from drought, experiments demonstrated community‐wide susceptibility to desiccation except for some caterpillars in which melanin‐based coloration appeared to reduce the effects of evaporative drying. Overall, we provide multiple lines of evidence that several months of heavy rain or drought reduce arthropod biomass independently of deep‐rooted plants with the potential to destabilize insectivore food webs.