bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of sleep quantity and intensity by long and short isoforms of SLEEPY kinase
Authors: Xu Junjie , Zhou Rui , Wang Guodong , Guo Ying , Gao Xue , Zhou Shuang , Ma Chengyuan , Chen Lin , Shi Bihan , Wang Haiyan , Wang Fengchao , Liu Qinghua
Published: July 2022

In Sleepy (Sik3Slp) or Sik3S551A mice, deletion or mutation of inhibitory phosphorylation site serine551 (S551) from salt-inducible kinase 3 (SIK3) markedly increases daily non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREMS) amount, accompanied with constitutively elevated NREMS delta power density–a measure of sleep intensity or quality. Multiple SLP/SIK3 isoforms are expressed in mouse brain neurons, however, their respective roles in sleep regulation remain to be elucidated. Here, we identified a new and most abundant short isoform of SLP/SIK3 and examined sleep phenotypes resulted from isoform-specific expression of SLP-short (S) and long (L) isoforms. Adeno-associated virus-mediated adult brain chimeric (ABC)-expression of SLP-S in neurons, but not in astrocytes, significantly and constitutively elevates NREMS delta power, whereas slightly increases NREMS amount. The ability of SLP-S to regulate sleep quantity/intensity is abrogated by kinase-inactivating mutations, suggesting that the sleep-promoting activity of SLP-S is dependent on its kinase activity. In Sik3S551A-L knock-in mice, isoform-specific expression of SIK3S551A-L (or SLP-L) significantly increases NREMS amount with a modest effect on NREMS delta power. ABC-expression of SLP-S complements the sleep phenotypes of heterozygous Sik3S551A-L mice by further increasing NREMS amount and NREMS delta power to levels of Sik3Slp or Sik3S551A mice. Taken together, these results indicate that both SLP-L and SLP-S isoforms contribute critically to the increases of sleep quantity and intensity in Sik3Slp or Sik3S551A mice.

Statement of Significance

Previous studies have identified SIK3 as a key sleep regulatory kinase, of which gain-of-function mutations markedly increase sleep quantity and intensity in Sleepy mice. Multiple SLEEPY isoforms are expressed in mouse brain neurons, but their respective contributions to the hypersomnia phenotypes of Sleepy mice remain unclear. Here, we identified a new short isoform of SLP/SIK3 and examined sleep phenotypes resulted from specific expression of SLEEPY-short or long isoform. Our results indicate that both long and short isoforms of SLEEPY kinase contribute critically to increases of sleep quantity and intensity in Sleepy mice. Future studies are needed to identify downstream substrates of SLEEPY kinase that mediate regulation of sleep quantity/intensity, which should facilitate development of new treatments for human sleep disorders.
Neutralization sensitivity of Omicron BA.2.75 to therapeutic monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Yamasoba Daichi , Kimura Izumi , Kosugi Yusuke , Uriu Keiya , Fujita Shigeru , Ito Jumpei , Sato Kei ,   The Genotype to Phenotype Japan (G2P-Japan) Consortium
Published: July 2022

Since the end of 2021, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron variant outcompeted other variants and took over the world. After the emergence of original Omicron BA.1, Omicron BA.2 subvariant emerged and outcompeted BA.1. As of July 2022, some BA.2 subvariants, including BA.2.12.1, BA.4 and BA.5, emerged in multiple countries and begun outcompeting original BA.2. Moreover, a novel BA.2 subvariant, BA.2.75, was detected in eight countries including India at the end of June 2022, and preliminary investigations suggest that BA.2.75 is more transmissible over the other BA.2 subvariants. On July 7, 2022, the WHO classified BA.2.75 as a variant-of-concern lineage under monitoring. We have recently demonstrated that BA.4/5 is highly resistant to a therapeutic monoclonal antibody, cilgavimab, than BA.2. The resistance of SARS-CoV-2 variants to therapeutic antibodies can be attributed to the mutations in the viral spike protein. Compared to the BA.2 spike, BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5 respectively bear two and four mutations in their spike proteins. On the other hand, the majority of BA.2.75 spike bears nine substitutions. The fact that the mutation number in the BA.2.75 spike is larger than those in the BA.4/5 spike raises the possibility that the BA.2.75 spike significantly reduces sensitivity towards therapeutic monoclonal antibodies than BA.2 and BA.4/5. In this study, we generated pseudoviruses harboring the spike proteins of BA.2.75, BA.4/5 and BA.2 and evaluated the efficacy of ten therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and three antibody cocktails against BA.2.75.
Genome-first detection of emerging resistance to novel therapeutic agents for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Ragonnet-Cronin Manon , Nutalai Rungtiwa , Huo Jiandong , Dijokaite-Guraliuc Aiste , Das Raksha , Tuekprakhon Aekkachai , Supasa Piyada , Liu Chang , Selvaraj Muneeswaran , Groves Natalie , Hartman Hassan , Ellaby Nicholas , Sutton J. Mark , Bahar Mohammad W. , Zhou Daming , Fry Elizabeth , Ren Jingshan , Brown Colin , Klenerman Paul , Dunachie Susanna J. , Mongkolsapaya Juthathip , Hopkins Susan , Chand Meera , Stuart David I. , Screaton Gavin R. , Rokadiya Sakib
Published: July 2022

Some COVID-19 patients are unable to clear their infection or are at risk of severe disease, requiring treatment with neutralising monoclonal antibodies (nmAb) and/or antivirals. The rapid roll-out of novel therapeutics means there is limited understanding of the likely genetic barrier to drug resistance. Unprecedented genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in the UK has enabled a genome-first approach to the detection of emerging drug resistance. Here we report the accrual of mutations in Delta and Omicron cases treated with casirivimab+imdevimab and sotrovimab respectively. Mutations occur within the epitopes of the respective nmAbs. For casirivimab+imdevimab these are present on contiguous raw reads, simultaneously affecting both components. Using surface plasmon resonance and pseudoviral neutralisation assays we demonstrate these mutations reduce or completely abrogate antibody affinity and neutralising activity, suggesting they are driven by immune evasion. In addition, we show that some mutations also reduce the neutralising activity of vaccine-induced serum.
Genetic variation in BnGRP1 contributes to low phosphorus tolerance in Brassica napus
Authors: Xu Ping , Li Haiyuan , Xu Ke , Cui Xiaoyu , Liu Zhenning , Wang Xiaohua
Published: July 2022

The lack of phosphorus (P) is a major environmental factor affecting rapeseed root growth and development. For breeding purposes, it is crucial to identify the molecular mechanisms of root system architecture (RSA) traits underlying low P tolerance in rapeseed. Using genome-wide association study (GWAS), transcriptome and re-sequencing analyses were done on 400 rapeseed cultivars, the natural variations of glycine-rich protein gene, BnGRP1, in response to low P tolerance. Based on 11 SNP mutations in the BnGRP1 sequence, ten types of haplotypes (Hap) were formed. Compared with the other types, the cultivar of the BnGRP1Hap1 type in the panel demonstrated the longest root length and heaviest root weight. Over-expression of BnGRP1Hap1 in rapeseed depicted the ability to enhance the resistance of rapeseed in its response to low P tolerance. CRISPR/Cas9-derived BnGRP1Hap1 knockout mutations in rapeseed could lead to sensitivity to low P stress. Furthermore, BnGRP1Hap1 influenced the expression of phosphate transporter 1 (PHT1) genes associated with P absorption. Overall, the findings of this study highlight the new mechanisms of GRP1 genes in enhancing the low P tolerance in rapeseed.
Transcriptome innovations in primates revealed by single-molecule long-read sequencing
Authors: Ferrández-Peral Luis , Zhan Xiaoyu , Alvarez-Estape Marina , Chiva Cristina , Esteller-Cucala Paula , García-Pérez Raquel , Julià Eva , Lizano Esther , Fornas Òscar , Sabidó Eduard , Li Qiye , Marquès-Bonet Tomàs , Juan David , Zhang Guojie
Published: July 2022

Transcriptomic diversity greatly contributes to the fundamentals of disease, lineage-specific biology, and environmental adaptation. However, much of the actual isoform repertoire contributing to shaping primate evolution remains unknown. Here, we combined deep long- and short-read sequencing complemented with mass spectrometry proteomics in a panel of lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) from human, three other great apes, and rhesus macaque, producing the largest full-length isoform catalog in primates to date. Around half of the captured isoforms are not annotated in their reference genomes, significantly expanding the gene models in primates. Furthermore, our comparative analyses unveil hundreds of transcriptomic innovations and isoform usage changes related to immune function and immunological disorders. The confluence of these evolutionary innovations with signals of positive selection and their limited impact in the proteome points to changes in alternative splicing in genes involved in immune response as an important target of recent regulatory divergence in primates.
Optimal rain gauge network to reduce rainfall impacts on urban mobility – a spatial sensitivity analysis
Authors: Simoyama Felipe de Oliveira , Tomás Lívia Rodrigues , Pinto Felipe Matheus , Salles-Neto Luiz Leduino , Santos Leonardo Bacelar Lima
Published: July 2022

Purpose

A sustainable transportation system should represent a win-win situation: minimizing transport's impact on the environment and reducing natural disasters' effects on transportation. A well-distributed set of rain gauges is crucial for monitoring services in smart cities. However, those services should consider the uncertainties about the registers of rainfall impacts. In this paper, the authors present a case study of optimal rain gauge location based on an actual database of rainfall events with impacts on urban mobility in the city of Sao Paulo (Brazil).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a maximal covering location formulation and proposes a robustness analysis considering spatial location perturbations.

Findings

In this case study, the robustness of the objective function is above 99.99%. The robustness for the number of covered demand points is 88.93%, and the frequency associated with every candidate is between 11.71% and 69.49%.

Originality/value

Incorporating spatial uncertainties on coverage problems is essential to provide stakeholders more realistic supporting tools and to draw different possible scenarios.
Impact of green marketing, greenwashing and green confusion on green brand equity
Authors: Qayyum Abdul , Jamil Raja Ahmed , Sehar Amnah
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the negative effects of excessive product packaging (EPP), greenwashing and green confusion on green brand equity (GBE). Furthermore, the moderating role of brand credibility in mitigating the negative effects of green marketing was investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

A within-subject experiment was conducted to evaluate excessive versus minimal product packaging to test the proposed hypotheses. Data analysis was performed with SmartPLS 3.3.3, which analyzed data from 206 consumers.

Findings

The results showed that EPP positively predicts greenwashing and green confusion. However, greenwashing has a negative impact on GBE. Brand credibility was also discovered to moderate the negative relationship between greenwashing and GBE, thereby reducing the negative effect of greenwashing.

Research limitations/implications

The findings imply that marketing managers should understand the consumers’ concerns for the environment, making product and brand strategies that promote environmental protection and sustainability.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the green marketing literature by empirically validating the positive impacts of EPP on greenwashing and green confusion, as well as the negative influence of greenwashing on GBE. Furthermore, it reveals how brand credibility can reduce the harmful effects of greenwashing on GBE.
Reversible mutations in gliding motility and virulence genes: A flexible and efficient phage defence mechanism in Flavobacterium psychrophilum
Authors: Jørgensen Jóhanna , Sundell Krister , Castillo Daniel , Dramshøj Liv S. , Jørgensen Natasja B. , Madsen Susie B. , Landor Lotta , Wiklund Tom , Donati Valentina L. , Madsen Lone , Dalsgaard Inger , Middelboe Mathias
Published: July 2022

Flavobacteria are among the most important pathogens in freshwater salmonid aquaculture worldwide. Due to concerns regarding development of antibiotic resistance, phage therapy has been proposed as a solution to decrease pathogen load. However, application of phages is challenged by the development of phage resistance, and knowledge of the mechanisms and implications of phage resistance is therefore required. To study this, 27 phage‐resistant isolates of F. psychrophilum were genome sequenced and characterized to identify genetic modifications and evaluate changes in phenotypic traits, including virulence against rainbow trout. Phage‐resistant isolates showed reduction or loss of gliding motility, proteolytic activity, and adhesion to surfaces, and most isolates were completely non‐virulent against rainbow trout fry. Genomic analysis revealed that most phage‐resistant isolates had mutations in genes associated with gliding motility and virulence. Reversal of these mutations in a sub‐set of isolates led to regained motility, proteolytic activity, virulence and phage susceptibility. Although costly, the fast generation of phage resistance driven by single, reversible mutations likely represents a flexible and efficient phage defence mechanism in F. psychrophilum. The results further suggest that phage administration in aquaculture systems to prevent F. psychrophilum outbreaks selects for non‐virulent phage‐resistant phenotypes.
Successful use of single‐pass albumin dialysis in the correction of severe hyperbilirubinemia in a case of acute hepatitis E
Authors: Piscitani Luca , Di Vito Roberto , Tunno Marilena , Bonomini Mario
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare syndrome defined by the rapid loss of liver function in the absence of pre‐existing liver disease, which may be secondary to hepatitis A virus, hepatitis E virus (HEV), or to drugs in about 50% of cases. Extracorporeal albumin dialysis enables the elimination of albumin‐bound toxins that accumulate in liver failure.

Methods

We report a case of ALF secondary to HEV associated with severe hyperbilirubinemia. Patient was treated with four consecutive sessions of single‐pass albumin dialysis (SPAD) carried out setting the following parameters: time: 300 min, Qb: 60 mL/min, Qd: 800–1000 mL/min, dialysate containing 4% albumin, citrate: 3–4 mmol/L.

Result

SPAD documented good support of liver function. Bilirubin levels were reduced from 22 to 14 g/dL after four treatments. Pruritus was the first clinical sign of improvement.

Conclusion

SPAD system can represent a safe and effective therapeutic option.
Standardized indices to estimate sensitivity to drought across ecosystems
Authors: Bondaruk Viviana F. , Oñatibia Gastón R. , Wilcox Kevin R. , Yahdjian Laura
Published: July 2022

Question

Climate change scenarios predict alterations in interannual variability of precipitation and increases of extreme droughts. Drought effects will reflect ecosystems' sensitivity (i.e. the magnitude of the response relative to the change in amount of precipitation), with different consequences for plant communities and ecosystem functioning. However, sensitivity estimations across ecosystems and among years are contingent upon the metric applied. Here, we asked how different sensitivity indices reflect the responses to drought in contrasting ecosystems.

Methods

We proposed a novel index to estimate sensitivity in drought experiments, which consider the change in the response variable in relation to the reduction in precipitation, standardized by the mean precipitation use efficiency of the site, making it suitable to compare among contrasting ecosystems. We compared the information gained from the new index with two indices commonly used in experimentally induced droughts, through simulated scenarios. Besides, we applied the indices to data from previous field drought experiments to evaluate relative and absolute sensitivity to drought in worldwide grassland ecosystems along a wide precipitation gradient.

Results

We found that both relative and absolute approaches yielded important information to determine drought sensitivity in different simulated scenarios and under interannual precipitation variability. When the indices were applied to real situations, relative sensitivity to drought showed a significant increase as mean annual precipitation decreases whereas absolute sensitivity did not change significantly with precipitation.

Conclusions

Our findings highlighted that absolute and relative indices to estimate drought sensitivity, rather than being redundant, may complement each other to inform how ecosystems respond to drought and to provide a more holistic assessment of vulnerable systems toward increasing interannual precipitation variability. This complementary approach enhances our understanding of ecosystem response under different conditions of precipitation variability and of the mechanisms that determine ecosystem changes during extreme droughts.
Reticulocalbin3: A Ca2+ homeostasis regulator that promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression and cisplatin resistance
Authors: Cai Rui , Wang Ping , Zhao Xin , Lu Xiansheng , Deng Ruxia , Wang Xiaoyu , Hong Chang , Lin Jie
Published: July 2022

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. There is a critical need to identify new mechanisms that contribute to ESCC progression. Reticulocalbin3 (RCN3) is mainly located in the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+‐binding protein containing EF‐hands. The function of RCN3 in tumor progression has not been clarified. We observed that the expression level of RCN3 was higher in ESCC tissues than in paired normal tissues. Overexpression of RCN3 was positively associated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, lymphatic vessel infiltration, and poor outcome in patients with ESCC. Increased malignant phenotypes were observed in RCN3 overexpressing ESCC cells, whereas the opposite effects were achieved in RCN3‐silenced cells. Reticulocalbin3 promoted the expression of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 by regulating the inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor 1 (IP3R1)–Ca2+–calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II–c‐Jun signaling pathway. Reticulocalbin3 induced cisplatin resistance by regulating IP3R1/Ca2+ to maintain intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and reduced reactive oxygen species in ESCC cells. Finally, the expression of RCN3 was regulated by hypoxia inducible factor‐1α. Collectively, these data strongly support that RCN3 regulates Ca2+ homeostasis by targeting IP3R1 to promote the progression and platinum resistance of ESCC. Our studies suggest that RCN3 could serve as predictive factor of poor prognosis and potential therapeutic target for ESCC patients.
The impact ofCOVID‐19 lockdown on children's and adolescents' mental health in Greece
Authors: Magklara Konstantina , Lazaratou Helen , Barbouni Anastasia , Poulas Konstantinos , Farsalinos Konstantinos
Published: July 2022

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of the COVID‐19 lockdown on children's and adolescents' mental health in Greece during the lockdown of spring 2020. A cross‐sectional survey of 1232 Greek parents was conducted in spring 2020. 35.1% of parents reported that their children's psychological health was significantly affected. Parental unemployment, limited opportunity for tele‐work and deteriorating psychological health, increased family conflicts and children's pre‐existing physical health conditions were all significantly associated with mental health impact. Children and adolescents may experience adverse mental health effects due to the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Trends in formaldehyde and formaldehyde‐releaser contact allergies as compared with market exposure in Thailand
Authors: Boonchai Waranya , Pruksaeakanan Chutipon , Wongdama Supisara , Bunyavaree Monthathip , Kumpangsin Titinun , Chaiyabutr Chayada
Published: July 2022

Background

Formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers (FRs) are common preservatives in cosmetics and household products. Their contact allergy trends are decreasing in Europe and America, but trend data for Asia are limited.

Objectives

The first objective was to determine the prevalences of and trends in contact allergies to formaldehyde and FRs. The second objective was to establish how often formaldehyde and FRs were mentioned on the labels of products sold in the Thai market.

Methods

Twenty years of data on patch test results for formaldehyde and FRs were reviewed. Their frequency of mention on the labels of 5855 products was analysed.

Results

The trends in contact allergy to formaldehyde and FRs were decreasing. The overall prevalence of formaldehyde contact allergy was 2.5%. The most common FR to cause contact allergy was quaternium‐15. Formaldehyde and FRs were identified as ingredients in 10.2% of the products surveyed. Dimethylol dimethyl hydantoin was the most common FR (5.2%). The highest use of formaldehyde and FRs (15.5%) was in hair care products.

Conclusion

Although contact allergy trends in Thailand were decreasing, the proportion of products with FRs remained high. Comprehensive and universal legislation is needed to control the presence of formaldehyde and FRs.
International cross‐sectional survey on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography training by the World Endoscopy Organization
Authors: Teoh Anthony Yuen Bun , Ma Mark Tsz Wah , Aabakken Lars , Seo Dong Wan , Reddy D. Nageshwar
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has revolutionized the treatment of many pancreaticobiliary conditions. However, little is known about the global practices, training programs, and credentialing of the procedure. The aim of the current study is to address the above questions.

Methods

This was an international cross‐sectional survey conducted between October 2020 and May 2021. Participating countries were requested to complete an online survey on ERCP services and training.

Results

Eighty‐nine countries responded to the survey. There were significant increases in the proportion of ERCP services provided by the government (P < 0.0001), number of endoscopists per million of population (P < 0.0001), and number of institutions per million of population (P < 0.0001) from low to high human development index (HDI). Eighteen percent of the countries offer the procedure as part of a standard training program, 68.5% do not follow a standardized training curriculum. Risk factors for higher incidence and mortality from pancreatic cancers include higher HDI category, smaller population, a larger number of endoscopists proficient in ERCP, and lower number of institutions providing ERCP training. Countries with very high HDI have four times higher incidence and mortality from pancreatic cancers as compared to those with low HDI.

Conclusions

There is still an ongoing need for improving ERCP training in low to very high HDI countries. A structured training program is still lacking in many parts of the world. With increasing incidence and mortality of pancreatic cancers, particularly in high HDI countries, there is a need for further increasing facilities for ERCP training.
Current management of acute ischemic stroke in Africa: A review of the literature
Authors: Uwishema Olivier , Berjaoui Christin , Correia Inês F. Silva , Anis Heeba , Karabulut Ece , Essayli Dina , Mhanna Melissa , Oluyemisi Adekunbi
Published: July 2022

Background and purpose

Acute ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and mortality globally, with increasing incidence in Africa, as the continent is already burdened with infectious diseases. Rapid diagnosis and efficient treatment are crucial, as even a slight delay in reperfusing the brain significantly affects the recovery outcome. Neuroimaging is vital for optimal care and thrombolytic or endovascular therapy in specialized stroke care units. This review aims to discuss the burden of acute ischemic stroke in Africa and how health care systems have tried to reduce the incidence and improve outcomes for the disease.

Methods

Data were collected through the online databases PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and Embase. All articles related to acute ischemic stroke in Africa were considered.

Results

The medical care for acute ischemic stroke in Africa is far from optimal, with little adherence to recommended protocols. There is a lack of public awareness of the disease, imaging infrastructure, personnel, stroke care units, and recovery facilities due to poor funding. Poor knowledge of stroke signs and symptoms results in delay in treatment and poor prognosis.

Conclusions

We urge African leaders and private entities to invest in stroke care by building appropriate infrastructures, providing medical equipment, and implementing guidelines and sustainable follow‐up systems. Telehealth is a suggested strategy to mitigate the scarcity of health personnel, and international and national efforts to increase treatment affordability should be doubled. Further extensive research on the impact of acute ischemic stroke on the African population is encouraged.
Novel aspects of Raman spectroscopy in skin research
Authors: Lunter Dominique , Klang Victoria , Kocsis Dorottya , Varga‐Medveczky Zsófia , Berkó Szilvia , Erdő Franciska
Published: July 2022

The analytical technology of Raman spectroscopy has an almost 100‐year history. During this period, many modifications and developments happened in the method like discovery of laser, improvements in optical elements and sensitivity of spectrometer and also more advanced light detection systems. Many types of the innovative techniques appeared (e.g. Transmittance Raman spectroscopy, Coherent Raman Scattering microscopy, Surface‐Enhanced Raman scattering and Confocal Raman spectroscopy/microscopy). This review article gives a short description about these different Raman techniques and their possible applications. Then, a short statistical part is coming about the appearance of Raman spectroscopy in the scientific literature from the beginnings to these days. The third part of the paper shows the main application options of the technique (especially confocal Raman spectroscopy) in skin research, including skin composition analysis, drug penetration monitoring and analysis, diagnostic utilizations in dermatology and cosmeto‐scientific applications. At the end, the possible role of artificial intelligence in Raman data analysis and the regulatory aspect of these techniques in dermatology are briefly summarized. For the future of Raman Spectroscopy, increasing clinical relevance and in vivo applications can be predicted with spreading of non‐destructive methods and appearance with the most advanced instruments with rapid analysis time.
INTERNATIONAL CAPITAL FLOWS: PRIVATE VERSUS PUBLIC FLOWS IN DEVELOPING AND DEVELOPED COUNTRIES
Authors: Kim Yun Jung , Zhang Jing
Published: July 2022

Empirically, net capital inflows are procyclical in developed countries and countercyclical in developing countries. Private inflows are procyclical and public inflows are countercyclical in both groups of countries. The dominance of private (public) inflows in developed (developing) countries drives the difference in net inflows. We rationalize these patterns using a two‐sector model of a small open economy facing borrowing constraints. Private agents overborrow because of the pecuniary externality arising from these constraints. The government saves to reduce aggregate debt, making the economy resilient to adverse shocks. Differences in borrowing constraints and shock processes across countries explain the empirical patterns of capital inflows.
The excellent protection effects of silicon/ytterbium silicate bilayer environmental barrier coatings on SiCf/SiC composites
Authors: Wang Yanfei , Zhang Jin , Chen Xiangjian , Wan Fan , Jian Yingjie , Liu Rongjun
Published: July 2022

The protection effects of an environmental barrier coating (EBC) consisting of silicon bond coat and mixed ytterbium monosilicate and ytterbium disilicate composite topcoat are directly evaluated by measuring the strength retention rate of SiCf/SiC composites completely wrapped up by the previous EBCs after soaking in a mixed oxygen and water vapor environment at 1300°C for up to 200 h. The results show that the mixed topcoat exhibits not only extremely excellent phase stability but also fantastic protection effects toward composites. After 200 h of corrosion, the fully protected composites are unveiled to present not only dramatically reduced weight gain ratios, less than .6%, compared to ∼10% for those unprotected ones, but also extremely higher strength retention rates, more than 90%, compared to only 10%–15% for those unprotected ones. Further, the fully protected composites show a quasi‐ductile load versus displacement curve, suggesting the retention of the oxidation‐prone pyrolytic carbon interphase of current composites.
Changes in miroRNA‐103 expression in wound margin tissue are related to wound healing of diabetes foot ulcers
Authors: Zhao Xiaotong , Xu Murong , Tang Ying , Xie Dandan , Wang Youmin , Chen Mingwei
Published: July 2022

To investigate the relationship between small noncoding microRNA‐103 (miR‐103) and wound healing of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and the underlying molecular mechanism, forty type 2 diabetes mellitus with DFU (DFU group), and 20 patients with a chronic skin ulcer of lower limbs and normal glucose tolerance (SUC group) were included. Quantitative real‐time PCR method was used to determine miR‐103 expression levels in the wound margin tissue of subjects, and to analyse the relationship between the expression of miR‐103 and DFU wound healing. In vitro experiments were also performed to understand the effect of miR‐103 on the high glucose‐induced injury of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) cells. The results showed that the miR‐103 expression level in the DFU group was significantly higher than that in the SUC group [5.81 (2.25–9.36) vs 2.08 (1.15–5.72)] (P < 0.05). The expression level of miR‐103 in the wound margin tissue of DFU was negatively correlated with the healing rate of foot ulcers after four weeks (P = 0.037). In vitro experiments revealed that miR‐103 could inhibit the proliferation and migration of NHDF cells and promote the apoptosis of NHDF cells by targeted regulation of regulator of calcineurin 1 (RCAN1) gene expression in a high glucose environment. Down‐regulation of miR‐103 could alleviate high glucose‐induced NHDF cell injury by promoting RCAN1 expression. Therefore, the increased expression of miR‐103 is involved in the functional damage of NHDF cells induced by high‐glucose conditions, which is related to poor wound healing of DFU. These research findings will provide potential targets for the diagnosis and treatment of chronic skin wounds in diabetes.
Latent class analysis to characterize neonatal risk for neurodevelopmental differences
Authors: Momany Allison M. , Jasper Elizabeth , Markon Kristian E. , Nikolas Molly A. , Ryckman Kelli K.
Published: July 2022

Background

Neonatal risk factors, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, have been robustly linked to neurodevelopmental deficits, yet it is still unclear why some infants born preterm and/or low birth weight experience neurodevelopmental difficulties while others do not. The current study investigated this heterogeneity in neurodevelopmental abilities by examining additional neonatal morbidities as risk factors, utilizing latent class analysis to classify neonates into groups based on similar neonatal risk factors, and including neonates from the full spectrum of gestational age.

Methods

Neonates who received neonatal care at an academic public hospital during an almost 10‐year period (n = 19,951) were included in the latent class analysis, and 21 neonatal indicators of health were used. Neonatal class, sex, and the interaction between neonatal class and sex were used to examine differences in neurodevelopment at 18 months of age in a typically developing population.

Results

The best fitting model included five infant classes: healthy, hypoxic, critically ill, minorly ill, and complicated delivery. Scores on the parent‐rated neurodevelopmental measure differed by class such that infants in the critically ill, minorly ill, and complicated delivery classes had lower scores. There was no main effect of sex on the neurodevelopmental measure scores, but the interaction between sex and neonatal class was significant for three out of five neurodevelopmental domains.

Conclusions

The current study extends the understanding of risk factors in neurodevelopment by including several neonatal medical conditions that are often overlooked and by using a person‐centered, as opposed to variable‐centered, approach. Future work should continue to examine risk factors, such as maternal health during pregnancy and medical interventions for newborns, in relation to neonatal risks and neurodevelopment by using a person‐centered approach.
Material system analysis: Functional and nonfunctional cobalt in the EU, 2012–2016
Authors: Godoy León María Fernanda , Matos Cristina T. , Georgitzikis Konstantinos , Mathieux Fabrice , Dewulf Jo
Published: July 2022

A comprehensive data inventory of the current materials cycle in industry and society is crucial for an informed discussion and for decision‐making on the supply of raw materials. Particularly, it is key to understand how these materials are functionally and nonfunctionally recycled, and enable the assessment of recycling indicators needed for the monitoring of circular economy. In this context, a material system analysis (MSA) of cobalt for the European Union (EU) from 2012 to 2016 is presented and discussed. Detailed results are provided for the year 2016, and the evolution of the flows over time is presented from 2012 to 2016. In addition, six indicators are calculated to characterize the cobalt cycle. In 2016, the EU28 embedded around 24,000 metric tons (t) of cobalt in manufactured products, and 33,700 t were put into use. The main losses of the system are due to nonselective collection of postconsumer waste (disposed), and nonfunctional recycling of old scrap. From the years analyzed, it was possible to detect a shift in the imports; the import of primary material decreased more than 99% between 2012 and 2016, and the import of semiprocessed and processed materials increased around 31% in the same period. This indicates that after 2012, the EU became more dependent on imports in downstream stages of the supply chain. One way to decrease this dependency is to establish higher collection targets, and to establish recycling targets based on the recovery of single materials, in order to decrease the amount dissipated through nonfunctional recycling.
Lipoteichoic acid and molecular weight of hyaluronic acid could explain the late inflammatory response trigger by hyaluronic acid fillers
Authors: Moran Marta , Nieto‐Lopez Francisco , Rueda‐Carrasco Javier
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Hyaluronic acid is a safe dermal filler, but sometimes late granuloma is generated. This adverse effect is an inflammatory process, and its causes are not clear. Late granuloma generation could be due to the reaction to residual components of the bacterial wall present into hyaluronic acid, such as lipoteichoic acid (LTA). Other possibility is hyaluronic acid degraded could be trigger this inflammatory reaction.

Objective

Study possible molecular mechanism that could be implicated into the late granuloma formation. We wonder whereas inflammatory response activation is triggered by lower molecular weight hyaluronic acid or Gram‐positive bacterial components as LTA.

Methods

We analyzed one adverse case generated by hyaluronic acid injections. Our study with one nodule through chemical and immunofluorescence histologic technics.

Results

In this case, observe a late granuloma without infectious process. Histological analysis shown few large Langerhans cells around fillers and multiple immunological cells infiltrated. Immunofluorescent study shown immunological cells (CD45 positives cells) with high TLR2 expression (hyaluronic acid and LTA receptor).

Limitations

The difficulty of obtaining biopsy samples of nodules implies that the number of cases analyzed is very low.

Conclusion

New model is proposed in which weight of hyaluronic acid and LTA could be able to trigger inflammation. This process could be mediated by TLR2 expressed in infiltrated immune cells.
Authenticity, meaning in life, and life satisfaction: A multicomponent investigation of relationships at the trait and state levels
Authors: Lutz Paul K. , Newman David B. , Schlegel Rebecca J. , Wirtz Derrick
Published: July 2022

Objective

The present study sought to examine: (1) how the components of authenticity (i.e., authentic living, self‐alienation, accepting external influence) relate to one another at between‐ and within‐person levels of analysis; (2) how the authenticity facets relate to meaning in life (i.e., purpose, comprehension, mattering) and life satisfaction at these levels of analysis; and (3) whether these relationships persist when controlling for affect and self‐esteem.

Method

Canadian undergraduates (N = 203) completed a trait questionnaire and end‐of‐day reports on these constructs for two weeks (n = 2335).

Results

At between‐ and within‐person levels, authentic living was negatively associated with self‐alienation and accepting external influence, while the latter two facets were positively associated. Authentic living was positively related to well‐being and predicted greater well‐being the following day. Alternatively, self‐alienation and accepting external influence were negatively related to well‐being, and self‐alienation predicted lower well‐being the following day. Relationships involving authentic living and self‐alienation were more robust than those involving accepting external influence.

Conclusion

Extending research on authenticity beyond between‐person relationships, our findings show that daily states of authenticity predict well‐being in nuanced ways, depending on the facet of authenticity. This highlights the importance of distinguishing levels of analyses and facets of authenticity.
#Insta personality: Personality expression in Instagram accounts, impression formation, and accuracy of personality judgments at zero acquaintance
Authors: Osterholz Sarah , Mosel Emily I. , Egloff Boris
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study examined personality expression, impression formation, and the consensus and accuracy of zero‐acquaintance personality judgments that were based on people's Instagram accounts.

Method

Self‐ and informant reports of the Big Five personality traits, self‐esteem, and narcissism were collected for 102 Instagram users. Screenshots were taken of Instagram users' profiles, including up to the 102 latest available Instagram posts. A number of Instagram cues were objectively retrieved, counted, and rated by independent trained cue coders from the screenshots. 100 unacquainted observers then judged the Big Five traits, self‐esteem, and narcissism on the basis of Instagram screenshots only.

Results

We identified Instagram account characteristics that were associated with users' personality traits (measured with self‐reports, informant reports, and self‐informant composites) and observers' zero‐acquaintance personality judgments. Personality judgments that were based on Instagram accounts demonstrated consensus and significantly converged with Instagram users' Big Five traits, self‐esteem, and narcissism across all three personality criteria. Averaged‐observer accuracy correlations for self‐informant composite scores ranged from r = .44 (p < .001) for extraversion to r = .25 (p = .013) for conscientiousness.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insight into cue processes of online self‐portrayal and impression formation on Instagram and the level of zero‐acquaintance accuracy.
Pyroptosis may play a crucial role in modifications of the immune microenvironment in periodontitis
Authors: Chen Hang , Wang Zhenxiang , He Yujuan , Peng Limin , Zhu Junlin , Zhang Xiaonan
Published: July 2022

Background and objective

Published studies proved that both pyroptosis and periodontitis owned a substantial relationship with immunity, and recent research revealed a solid correlation between periodontitis and pyroptosis. While abundant findings have confirmed pyroptosis has a strong impact on the tumor microenvironment, the function of pyroptosis in influencing the periodontitis immune microenvironment remains poorly understood. Thus, we aimed to identify pyroptosis‐related genes whose expression signature can well discriminate periodontitis from healthy controls and to comprehend the role of pyroptosis in the periodontitis immune microenvironment.

Materials and methods

The periodontitis‐related datasets were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. A series of bioinformatics analyses were conducted to investigate the underlying mechanism of pyroptosis in the periodontitis immune microenvironment. Infiltrating immunocytes, immunological reaction gene sets, and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene were all investigated as potential linkages between periodontitis immune microenvironment and pyroptosis.

Results

Twenty‐one pyroptosis‐related genes were dysregulated. A four‐mRNA combined classification model was constructed, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated its prominent classification capabilities. Subsequently, the mRNA levels of the four hub markers (CYCS, CASP3, NOD2, CHMP4B) were validated by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). The correlation coefficients between each hub gene and immune characteristics were calculated, and CASP3 exhibited the most significant correlations with the immune characteristics. Furthermore, distinct pyroptosis‐related expression patterns were revealed, along with immunological features of each pattern. Afterward, we discovered 1868 pyroptosis phenotype‐related genes, 134 of which were related to immunity. According to the functional enrichment analysis, these 134 genes were closely related to cytokine signaling in immune system, and defense response. Finally, a co‐expression network was constructed via the 1868 gene expression profiles.

Conclusion

Four hub mRNAs (CYCS, CASP3, NOD2, and CHMP4B) formed a classification model and concomitant results revealed the crucial role of pyroptosis in the periodontitis immune microenvironment, providing fresh insights into the etiopathogenesis of periodontitis and potential immunotherapy.
Semantic reasons
Authors: Cumming Samuel
Published: July 2022

An analysis of a predicate normally takes the form of a condition that is both necessary and sufficient for the predicate's application. Here I consider the idea, due originally to Friedrich Waismann, that semantic analyses might include conditions that are defeasible, and so allow for exceptions. Analyses of this sort can be expressed in nonmonotonic logic, a post‐Waismann development. I'll argue that defeasibility makes analysis tractable, without making it trivial. I'll also show that a defeasible account of vague predicates can predict our intuitions about particular cases (for instance, that a seven‐foot person counts as tall) without drawing artificial boundaries.
Theorising labour unrest and trade unionism in the platform economy
Authors: Joyce Simon , Stuart Mark , Forde Chris
Published: July 2022

The article develops a novel conceptualisation of labour unrest and trade unionism in the platform economy, extending current understandings in two ways. First, we situate platform work historically, in thelongue duréeof paid work under capitalism. Secondly, we introduce a consideration of social structure into debates on union practices often framed in terms of agency. Building on Silver and the Webbs, we highlight the importance in platform work of associational power over structural power; legal enactment over collective bargaining; and geographical over workplace unionism. While mainly a theoretical article, we draw on empirical evidence from research into platform work over five years, comprising interviews, case study, observation and documentary analysis. We conclude that platform labour unrest and unionism bear marked similarities with 19th century forms rather than the 20th century models that often dominate industrial relations perspectives. Consequently, unions organising platform workers should consider adapting their approach accordingly.
Global studies and human geography: A view from Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Gillen Jamie
Published: July 2022

This article introduces global studies to an Aotearoa New Zealand audience with the goal of thinking through what human geographers might learn by comparing elements of global studies with their own discipline. It begins by reviewing global studies and its establishment at The University of Auckland and then considers how global studies relates to human geography. A number of areas of mutual benefit are identified. The relationship between global studies and human geography is important to consider during a time of change within higher education in Aotearoa, a point discussed in the conclusion.
Progression of Spinal Ligament Ossification in Patients with Thoracic Myelopathy
Authors: Zhai Jiliang , Guo Shigong , Li Jiahao , Chen Bingrong , Zhao Yu
Published: July 2022

Objective

To evaluate the rate of increase in thickness and cross‐section area (CSA) of the ossification in thoracic myelopathy with or without cervical and lumbar spinal ligament ossification.

Methods

A total of 24 patients with 170 segments (47 ligamentum flavum [OLF] and 123 cases of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament [OPLL]) of spinal ligament ossification between January 2012 and March 2019 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, classification of OPLL, Sato classification of OLF, pre‐ and postoperative neurological function and complications were recorded. The thickness and CSA at the segment of maximum compression were measured with Image J software on the axial CT image.

Results

Twelve female and 12 male patients with thoracic myelopathy and spinal ligament ossification were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the patients was 54.0 ± 11.9 years with an average follow‐up of 22.2 ± 23.5 months. Overall, the mean rate of progression in thickness and CSA was 1.2 ± 1.6 and 18.4 ± 50.6 mm2/year, respectively. Being female, aging (≥45 years), and lower BMI (<28 kg/m2) predisposed patients to have faster ossification growth in thickness and CSA. The difference between the rate of OPLL and OLF progression in thickness and CSA was not significant. However, the rate of OPLL progression in the thoracic spine was significantly higher than that in the cervical spine regarding thickness (1.4 ± 1.9 vs. 0.6 ± 0.7 mm/year) and CSA (27.7 ± 72.0 vs. 7.3 ± 10.3 mm2/year).

Conclusion

This is the first study to investigate ligament ossification progression in patients with thoracic myelopathy. The difference between the rate of OPLL and OLF progression in thickness and CSA was not significant. However, the rate of thoracic OPLL progression in thickness and CSA was significantly higher than that in the cervical spine.
Role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication during reproduction
Authors: Godakumara Kasun , Dissanayake Keerthie , Hasan Mohammad Mehedi , Kodithuwakku Suranga. P. , Fazeli Alireza
Published: July 2022

The mammalian reproduction is a process of controlled cellular growth and development regulated by constant communication between the gametes, the subsequent embryo and the maternal system. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in these communications to a significant degree from the gamete production and maturation to fertilization, embryo development and implantation. They regulate the cellular physiology and the immune reaction to bring about a favourable environment for a successful pregnancy. Deciphering the mechanisms employed in EV‐mediated embryo maternal communication could improve our knowledge in mammalian reproduction and increase the efficiency of animal breeding.