bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managers’ Body Expansiveness, Investor Perceptions, and Firm Forecast Errors and Valuation
Authors: DÁVILA ANTONIO , GUASCH MARTÍ
Published: February 2022

We examine the relation between a measure of managers’ physical display—body expansiveness—and favorable reporting practices (in firm forecasts and valuation information) and performance (survival and funding success). We videotape 154 entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas, and use computer vision software to obtain information about speakers’ movements. We show that physical expansiveness correlates with higher forecast errors and proposed firm valuations and lower survival rates yet higher likelihood of funding success. We argue that investors may incorrectly interpret nonverbal communication in their assessments of entrepreneurs and propose a behavioral explanation. We further corroborate the proposed mechanism by studying investor perceptions of entrepreneurs’ personal characteristics. Overall, we shed light on an overlooked source of information—nonverbal behavior—and relate it to firm forecasting, valuation, survival, and financing success, which are important factors in the assessment of investment opportunities, deal structure, and monitoring.
Private mortgage securitization and loss given default
Authors: Higgins Eric , Yavas Abdullah , Zhu Shuang
Published: February 2022

Loan performance varies by default probability and loss given default (LGD). While the relationship between securitization and default probability has been studied intensively, the effect of securitization on LGD remains unexplored. Using a unique data set containing over 40,000 mortgage liquidations, this article studies the effect of private securitization on LGD. We document that securitized loans incur higher LGD than observably similar portfolio loans. The results indicate that the effect comes mainly from the difference in loan quality between securitized and portfolio loans. Securitized opaque mortgages incur more than 18% (in relative terms) higher loan losses than observably similar portfolio loans. In addition, a difference‐in‐difference analysis provides evidence that precrisis securitization standards contributed to higher loan losses.
Multiplex optical bioassays for food safety analysis: Toward on‐site detection
Authors: Guan Tian , Xu Zhenlin , Wang Jin , Liu Yingju , Shen Xing , Li Xiangmei , Sun Yuanming , Lei Hongtao
Published: February 2022

Food safety analysis plays a significant role in controlling food contamination and supervision. In recent years, multiplex optical bioassays (MOBAs) have been widely applied to analyze multiple hazards due to their efficiency and low cost. However, due to the challenges such as multiplexing capacity, poor sensitivity, and bulky instrumentation, the further application of traditional MOBAs in food screening has been limited. In this review, effective strategies regarding food safety MOBAs are summarized, such as spatial‐resolution modes performed in multi‐T lines/dots strips or arrays of strip/microplate/microfluidic chip/SPR chip and signal‐resolution modes employing distinguishable colorimetric/luminescence/fluorescence/surface plasma resonance/surface‐enhanced Raman spectrum as signal tags. Following this, new trends on how to design engineered sensor architecture and exploit distinguishable signal reporters, how to improve both multiplexing capacity and sensitivity, and how to integrate these formats into smartphones so as to be mobile are summarized systematically. Typically, in the case of enhancing multiplexing capacity and detection throughput, microfluidic array chips with multichannel architecture would be a favorable approach to overcome the spatial and physical limitations of immunochromatographic assay (ICA) test strips. Moreover, noble metal nanoparticles and single‐excitation, multiple‐emission luminescence nanomaterials hold great potential in developing ultrasensitive MOBAs. Finally, the exploitation of innovative multiplexing strategy hybridized with powerful and widely available smartphones opens new perspectives to MOBAs. In future, the MOBAs should be more sensitive, have higher multiplexing capacity, and easier instrumentation.
Combating biofilms of foodborne pathogens with bacteriocins by lactic acid bacteria in the food industry
Authors: Pang Xinyi , Song Xiaoye , Chen Minjie , Tian Shuhua , Lu Zhaoxin , Sun Jing , Li Xiangfei , Lu Yingjian , Yuk Hyun‐Gyun
Published: February 2022

Most foodborne pathogens have biofilm‐forming capacity and prefer to grow in the form of biofilms. Presence of biofilms on food contact surfaces can lead to persistence of pathogens and the recurrent cross‐contamination of food products, resulting in serious problems associated with food safety and economic losses. Resistance of biofilm cells to conventional sanitizers urges the development of natural alternatives to effectively inhibit biofilm formation and eradicate preformed biofilms. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) produce bacteriocins which are ribosomally synthesized antimicrobial peptides, providing a great source of nature antimicrobials with the advantages of green and safe properties. Studies on biofilm control by newly identified bacteriocins are increasing, targeting primarily onListeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli. This review systematically complies and assesses the antibiofilm property of LAB bacteriocins in controlling foodborne bacterial‐biofilms on food contact surfaces. The bacteriocin‐producing LAB genera/species, test method (inhibition and eradication), activity spectrum and surfaces are discussed, and the antibiofilm mechanisms are also argued. The findings indicate that bacteriocins can effectively inhibit biofilm formation in a dose‐dependent manner, but are difficult to disrupt preformed biofilms. Synergistic combination with other antimicrobials, incorporation in nanoconjugates and implementation of bioengineering can help to strengthen their antibiofilm activity. This review provides an overview of the potential and application of LAB bacteriocins in combating bacterial biofilms in food processing environments, assisting in the development and widespread use of bacteriocin as a promising antibiofilm‐agent in food industries.
Vitamin E in foodstuff: Nutritional, analytical, and food technology aspects
Authors: Zaaboul Farah , Liu YuanFa
Published: February 2022

Vitamin E is a group of isoprenoid chromanols with different biological activities. It comprises eight oil‐soluble compounds: four tocopherols, namely, α‐, β‐, γ‐, and δ‐tocopherols; and four tocotrienols, namely, α‐, β‐, γ, and δ‐tocotrienols. Vitamin E isomers are well‐known for their antioxidant activity, gene‐regulation effects, and anti‐inflammatory and nephroprotective properties. Considering that vitamin E is exclusively synthesized by photosynthetic organisms, animals can only acquire it through their diet. Plant‐based food is the primary source of vitamin E; hence, oils, nuts, fruits, and vegetables with high contents of vitamin E are mostly consumed after processing, including industrial processes and home‐cooking, which involve vitamin E profile and content alteration during their preparation. Accordingly, it is essential to identify the vitamin E content and profile in foodstuff to match daily intake requirements. This review summarizes recent advances in vitamin E chemistry, metabolism and metabolites, current knowledge on their contents and profiles in raw and processed plant foods, and finally, their modern developments in analytical methods.
Soy protein isolates: A review of their composition, aggregation, and gelation
Authors: Zheng Li , Regenstein Joe M. , Zhou Linyi , Wang Zhongjiang
Published: February 2022

Considering that a series of complex issues such as environmental problems, sustainable development, animal welfare, and human health are on a global scale, the development of vegetable protein‐based meat substitutes provides a potential solution to the disparity between meat consumption demand and supply. The research and development of vegetable protein‐based meat substitutes have become a major commercial activity, and the market is expanding to meet the growing consumer demand. Soy protein isolates (SPI) are often used as a raw material for vegetable meat substitutes because of their potential to form fiber structures. Although significant initial success has been achieved, it is still a challenge to explain how the composition and aggregation of SPI influence gel properties and the mechanism(s) involved. This article reviews the latest research about SPI. The relationship between the composition, aggregation, and gelation properties of SPI is based on a through literature search. It focused on the application of SPI in heat‐ and cold‐induced gels, given the diversified market demands. The research on cold gel has helped expand the market. The methods to improve the properties of SPI gels, including physical, chemical, and biological properties, are reviewed to provide insights on its role in the properties of SPI gels. To achieve environmentally friendly and efficient ways for the food industry to use SPI gel properties, the research prospects and development trends of the gel properties of SPI are summarized. New developments and practical applications in the production technology, such as for ultrasound, microwave and high pressure, are reviewed. The potential and challenges for practical applications of cold plasma technology for SPI gel properties are also discussed. There is a need to transfer the laboratory technology to actual food production efficiently and safely.
Medium chain triglycerides (MCT): State‐of‐the‐art on chemistry, synthesis, health benefits and applications in food industry
Authors: Nimbkar Shubham , Leena M. Maria , Moses J. A. , Anandharamakrishnan C.
Published: February 2022

Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) are esters of fatty acids with 6 to 12 carbon atom chains. Naturally, they occur in various sources; their composition and bioactivity are source and extraction process‐linked. The molecular size of MCT oil permits unique metabolic pathways and energy production rates, making MCT oil a high‐value functional food. This review details the common sources of MCT oil, presenting critical information on the various approaches for MCT oil extraction or synthesis. Apart from conventional techniques, non‐thermal processing methods that show promising prospects are analyzed. The biological effects of MCT oil are summarized, and the range of need‐driven modification approaches are elaborated. A section is devoted to highlighting the recent trends in the application of MCT oil for food, nutraceuticals, and allied applications. While much is debated about the role of MCT oil in human health and wellness, there is limited information on daily requirements, impact on specific population groups, and effects of long‐term consumption. Nonetheless, several studies have been conducted and continue to identify the most effective methods for MCT oil extraction, processing, handling, and storage. A knowledge gap exists and future research must focus on technology packages for scalability and sustainability.
Microsoft Teams desktop application forensic investigations utilizing IndexedDB storage
Authors: Paligu Furkan , Varol Cihan
Published: February 2022

While the COVID‐19 virus remolded the routines of the establishments, remote collaboration and distant communication gained more popularity. As the way electronic communications are handled changes drastically, new applications and storage mechanisms are introduced. Microsoft Teams is an application offered within the scope of Microsoft Office 365 that offers services for hosting virtual meetings, team communication, and comprehensive team resource management. It is prevalently used by organizations and indicates a great potential to be a source of digital forensic investigations. This paper scrutinizes the artifacts created by Microsoft Teams in IndexedDB persistent storage. IndexedDB is a fast‐growing client‐side storage technology that is relatively new as a source for digital forensic investigations. A single‐case pretest–posttest quasi experiment was conducted to produce artifacts in Microsoft Teams IndexedDB storage. The artifacts were extracted without user credentials indicating security flaws in the application. Extracted artifacts were processed based on signature patterns and evaluated for their significance. Traditional database queries were utilized to link and present the information clustered according to their relevancy. A time‐frame analysis was constructed to display information in a suitable format for investigators. The results indicate that Microsoft Teams IndexedDB storage artifacts contain significant potential for digital investigations with extraction of complete contents of private chat messages, voice mails, and team extensions with efficient time‐frame analysis.
Grapevine virome and production of healthy plants by somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Nuzzo Floriana , Moine Amedeo , Nerva Luca , Pagliarani Chiara , Perrone Irene , Boccacci Paolo , Gribaudo Ivana , Chitarra Walter , Gambino Giorgio
Published: February 2022

Grapevine (Vitis spp.) is a widespread fruit tree hosting many viral entities that interact with the plant modifying its responses to the environment. The production of virus‐free plants is becoming increasingly crucial for the use of grapevine as a model species in different studies. Using high‐throughput RNA sequencing, the viromes of seven mother plants grown in a germplasm collection vineyard were sequenced. In addition to the viruses and viroids already detected in grapevine, we identified 13 putative new mycoviruses. The different spread among grapevine tissues collected in vineyard, greenhouse and in vitro conditions suggested a clear distinction between viruses/viroids and mycoviruses that can successfully be exploited for their identification. Mycoviruses were absent in in vitro cultures, while plant viruses and viroids were particularly accumulated in these plantlets. Somatic embryogenesis applied to the seven mother plants was effective in the elimination of the complete virome, including mycoviruses. However, different sanitization efficiencies for viroids and grapevine pinot gris virus were observed among genotypes. The absence of mycoviruses in in vitro plantlets, associated with the absence of all viral entities in somaclones, suggested that this regeneration technique is also effective to eradicate endophytic/epiphytic fungi, resulting in gnotobiotic or pseudo‐gnotobiotic plants.
COVID‐19 and children: medical impact and collateral damage
Authors: Brüssow Harald
Published: February 2022

Children mostly experience mild SARS‐CoV‐2 infections, but the extent of paediatric COVID‐19 disease differs between geographical regions and the distinct pandemic waves. Not all infections in children are mild, some children even show a strong inflammatory reaction resulting in a multisystem inflammatory syndrome. The assessments of paediatric vaccination depend on the efficacy of protection conferred by vaccination, the risk of adverse reactions and whether children contribute to herd immunity against COVID‐19. Children were also the target of consequential public health actions such as school closure which caused substantial harm to children (educational deficits, sociopsychological problems) and working parents. It is, therefore, important to understand the transmission dynamics of SARS‐CoV‐2 infections by children to assess the efficacy of school closures and paediatric vaccination. The societal restrictions to contain the COVID‐19 pandemic had additional negative effects on children’s health, such as missed routine vaccinations, nutritional deprivation and lesser mother–child medical care in developing countries causing increased child mortality as a collateral damage. In this complex epidemiological context, it is important to have an evidence‐based approach to public health approaches. The present review summaries pertinent published data on the role of children in the pandemic, whether they are drivers or followers of the infection chains and whether they are (after elderlies) major sufferers or mere bystanders of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
“Escalibur”—A practical pipeline for the de novo analysis of nucleotide variation in nonmodel eukaryotes
Authors: Korhonen Pasi K. , Shaban Babak , Faux Noel G. , Kinkar Liina , Chang Bill C. H. , Wang Daxi , Yang Bicheng , Young Neil D. , Gasser Robin B.
Published: February 2022

The revolution in genomics has enabled large‐scale population genetic investigations of a wide range of organisms, but there has been a relatively limited focus on improving analytical pipelines. To efficiently analyse large data sets, highly integrated and automated software pipelines, which are easy to use, efficient, reliable, reproducible and run in multiple computational environments, are required. A number of software workflows have been developed to handle and process such data sets for population genetic analyses, but effective, specialized pipelines for genetic and statistical analyses of nonmodel organisms are lacking. For most species, resources for variomes (sets of genetic variations found in populations of species) are not available, and/or genome assemblies are often incomplete and fragmented, complicating the selection of the most suitable reference genome when multiple assemblies are available. Additionally, the biological samples used often contain extraneous DNA from sources other than the species under investigation (e.g., microbial contamination), which needs to be removed prior to genetic analyses. For these reasons, we established a new pipeline, called Escalibur, which includes: functionalities, such as data trimming and mapping; selection of a suitable reference genome; removal of contaminating read data; recalibration of base calls; and variant‐calling. Escalibur uses a proven gatk variant caller and workflow description language (WDL), and is, therefore, a highly efficient and scalable pipeline for the genome‐wide identification of nucleotide variation in eukaryotes. This pipeline is available at https://gitlab.unimelb.edu.au/bioscience/escalibur (version 0.3‐beta) and is essentially applicable to any prokaryote or eukaryote.
Chromosomal‐level genome of a sheet‐web spider provides insight into the composition and evolution of venom
Authors: Zhu Bingyue , Jin Pengyu , Hou Zhonge , Li Jianlong , Wei Shujun , Li Shuqiang
Published: February 2022

Spiders are the most abundant venomous predators in the world. Previous research related to spider venom has mostly relied on transcriptomes and proteomes, with only a few high‐quality genomes available. This is far from consistent with the species diversity of spiders. In this study, we constructed a high‐quality chromosome‐level genome assembly of Hylyphantes graminicola, which contained 13 chromosomes, with a genome length of 931.68 Mb and scaffold N50 of 77.07 Mb. Integrating genome, transcriptome, and proteome profiling, we identified a total of 59 coding genes among nine toxin gene families. Among them, Group 7 allergen (ALL7) protein was reported in spider venom for the first time. Its coding genes had a predicted signal peptide and maintained high expression levels in the venom, suggesting that ALL7 plays an important role in venom and maybe is a type of newly discovered venom toxin in the spider. By implementing comparative genomics, we found a similar gene number of main toxin gene families in spiders and the scorpion genome with conservative evolutionary rates, indicating that these toxin genes could be an ancient (~400 million years) and a conserved "basic toolkit" for spiders and scorpions to perform primary defence functions. Obtaining high‐quality chromosome‐level genomes from spiders not only facilitates venom research and toxin resource application, but also can improve comparative genomic analysis in other important traits, like the evolution of silk or behaviour.
The uniform AUC: Dealing with the representativeness effect in presence–absence models
Authors: Jiménez‐Valverde Alberto
Published: February 2022

Species distribution models use occurrence data of the focus species together with environmental variables to estimate a habitat suitability score. Typically, the discrimination capacity of the models, that is, how good the instances of presence and absence are correctly classified, is assessed with statistics such as the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). However, the value of any discrimination statistic depends on the distribution of the suitability scores in the evaluation dataset, the so‐called representativeness effect. For example, the same well‐calibrated model evaluated with two datasets, one set with mostly intermediate predicted values (around 0.5) and another set in which most cases have extreme predicted values (close to 0 and close to 1), will yield low (towards 0.5) and high (towards 1) AUC values, respectively. Thus, discrimination values are entirely context dependent and cannot be directly compare between datasets because they are not intrinsic measures of a model’s performance.

In this contribution, I propose a methodology based on stratified bootstrapping with an inverse probability weighting that makes the distribution of the suitability values uniform and harmonizes the AUC so that the so‐called uAUC can now be compared between different datasets. I run simulations considering a range of sample sizes and different initial distributions of the suitability values to validate the method. I apply the method to an empirical exercise, and implement it in the R package vandalico.

Although I mainly focused on the AUC, the harmonization procedure can be applied to any other discrimination measure that is prevalence independent in a strict mathematical sense, such as the sensitivity star (Se*). To provide accurate estimations, it is important to have a high‐quality evaluation dataset, that is, a dataset that covers the whole spectrum of suitability values and a minimum sample size of at least 150 cases.

Further research is needed to develop a method to estimate reliable confidence intervals. I expect the harmonization methodology proposed here to be of interest in other research areas (besides ecology) that deal with discrimination/classification problems.
Passive acoustic tracking of the three‐dimensional movements and acoustic behaviour of toothed whales in close proximity to static nets
Authors: Macaulay Jamie , Kingston Al , Coram Alex , Oswald Michael , Swift René , Gillespie Doug , Northridge Simon
Published: February 2022

Entanglement in net fisheries (static and drift) is the largest known cause of direct anthropogenic mortality to many small cetacean species, including harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena), in UK waters. Despite this, little is known about the behaviour of small cetaceans in proximity to nets.

We have developed a passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) system for tracking the fine‐scale three‐dimensional (3D) movements of echolocating cetaceans around actively fishing nets by localising their acoustic clicks. The system consists of two compact four‐channel acoustic recorders with sample‐synchronised sensor packages that use 3D motion tracking technology to accurately log orientation, depth, water temperature and ambient light level. Two recorders were used in tandem, with each one attached to and floating above the net floatline. The system can be deployed during normal fishing operations by a trained researcher or experienced fisheries observer. Recordings were analysed in PAMGuard software and the 3D positions of echolocating animals in the vicinity of the system were calculated using an acoustic particle filter‐based localisation method.

We present findings from four deployments in UK waters (each 1–2 days in duration) in which 12 distinct harbour porpoise encounters yielded a sufficient number of detected clicks to track their movements around the net. The tracks show a variety of behaviours, including multiple instances of animals actively foraging in close proximity to the fishing net.

We show that a relatively inexpensive PAM system, which is practical to deploy from active fishing vessels, is capable of providing highly detailed data on harbour porpoise behaviour around nets. As harbour porpoises are the one of the most difficult species to localise, this methodology is likely to be suitable for elucidating the behaviour of many other toothed whale species in a variety of situations.
Reduced calibration between subjective and objective measures of episodic future thinking in alcohol use disorder
Authors: Noël Xavier , Saeremans Mélanie , Kornreich Charles , Chatard Armand , Jaafari Nemet , D’Argembeau Arnaud
Published: February 2022

Background

A reduced capacity to mentally simulate future scenarios could be of clinical importance in alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying episodic future thinking (EFT) impairment in AUD.

Methods

We tested patients with severe AUD using two measures of EFT: the individual's own subjective experience of their imaginings (phenomenology) and the objective number of details included in imagined events, as assessed by an independent observer (examination). The comparison between the two measures allowed us to investigate the extent to which the subjective and objective characteristics of EFT are calibrated in healthy and AUD participants matched for age, education, and gender. The possible impact of cognitive functioning and disturbed mood on EFT measures was also investigated.

Results

In terms of objective details of EFT, patients with AUD (n = 40) generated fewer episodic components and more non‐episodic components than control participants (n = 40), even when controlling for cognitive functioning. However, self‐ratings of phenomenological characteristics indicated that participants with AUD perceived imagined future events at a similar level of detail as control participants. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between objective and subjective measures in healthy individuals but not in the AUD group. A higher depression score in the AUD group was not associated with the EFT measures.

Conclusions

These results suggest a distorted self‐assessment of the richness of imagined future events in individuals with AUD. We discuss these apparent limitations in metacognitive abilities and verbal descriptions of imagined events among individuals with AUD and their clinical implications.
Authoritarian attitudes in Russia: Right‐wing authoritarianism and social dominance orientation in the modern Russian context
Authors: Grigoryev Dmitry , Batkhina Anastasia , Conway Lucian Gideon , Zubrod Alivia
Published: February 2022

The study of authoritarianism has a long history in the field of psychology; however, much of this research focuses on Western countries, especially the United States. In effort to better understand authoritarianism cross‐culturally, we explore the current state of authoritarianism in an important cultural context: Russia. Thus, the current paper reports on large‐scale research of right‐wing authoritarianism and social dominance orientation in the modern Russian context. Six studies (total N = 1,358) included personality traits, basic human values, social beliefs, and intergroup attitudes that allowed us to comprehensively consider authoritarian attitudes in Russia. The results showed that personological profile and pattern of reaction to threat among Russian authoritarians is similar to Western authoritarians. However, economic views inherited from Soviet ideology make Russians differ in their view of economic conservatism from that supported by Western authoritarians. These data provide insight into the psychology of authoritarianism as well as explore novel aspects of Russian culture.
Time to leave? The interaction of temporal focus and turnover intentions in explaining voluntary turnover behaviour
Authors: Peltokorpi Vesa , Allen David G. , Shipp Abbie J.
Published: February 2022

Although turnover intentions are the strongest predictors of voluntary turnover behaviours, many employees who express intentions to leave do not. To explain why some employees translate turnover intentions into behaviour and others do not, this study examines the moderating effect of temporal focus (i.e. the degree to which one thinks about the past, present and future) between turnover intentions and voluntary turnover, using the lens of theory of planned behaviour. Data were collected from 683 full‐time employees in a range of organisations at three points in time. Results show that past temporal focus conditions the positive relationship between turnover intention and turnover, such that the relationship is stronger when past temporal focus is high. Future temporal focus has an opposite moderating effect, such that the relationship between turnover intention and turnover is weaker when future temporal focus is high. Results show no significant moderating effect of current temporal focus. Overall, temporal focus helps explain why some employees leave and others stay by conditioning the likelihood of translating turnover intentions into quitting. We speculate that a dominant, unspoken paradigm in turnover research is an assumption that individuals are current focused, yet our results suggest scholars should explicitly examine this assumption.
Systematic review: non‐endoscopic surveillance for colorectal neoplasia in individuals with Lynch syndrome
Authors: van Liere Elsa L. S. A. , de Boer Nanne K. H. , Dekker Evelien , van Leerdam Monique E. , de Meij Tim G. J. , Ramsoekh Dewkoemar
Published: February 2022

Background

Individuals with Lynch syndrome are at high risk for colorectal cancer (CRC). Regular colonoscopies have proven to decrease CRC incidence and mortality. However, colonoscopy is burdensome and interval CRCs still occur. Hence, an accurate, less‐invasive screening method that guides the timing of colonoscopy would be of important value.

Aim

To outline the performance of non‐endoscopic screening modalities for Lynch‐associated CRC and adenomas.

Methods

Systematic literature search in MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify studies investigating imaging techniques and biomarkers for detection of CRC and adenomas in Lynch syndrome. The QUADAS‐2 tool was used for the quality assessment of included studies.

Results

Seven of 1332 screened articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Two studies evaluated either CT colonography or MR colonography; both techniques were unable to detect CRC and (advanced) adenomas <10 mm. The other five studies evaluated plasma methylated‐SEPTIN9, faecal immunochemical test (FIT), faecal tumour DNA markers (BAT‐26, hMLH1, p53, D9S171, APC, D9S162, IFNA and DCC) and faecal microbiome as screening modalities. Sensitivity for CRC varied from 33% (BAT‐26) to 70% (methylated‐SEPTIN9) to 91% (hMLH1). High specificity (94–100%) for CRC and/or adenomas was observed for methylated‐SEPTIN9, FIT and BAT‐26. Desulfovibrio was enriched in the stool of patients having adenomas. However, all these studies were characterised by small populations, high/unclear risk of bias and/or low prevalence of adenomas.

Conclusions

Imaging techniques are unsuitable for colon surveillance in Lynch syndrome, whereas biomarkers are understudied. Having outlined biomarker research in Lynch‐associated and sporadic CRC/adenomas, we believe that these non‐invasive markers may hold potential (whether or not combined) for this population. As they could be of great value, (pre‐)clinical studies in this field should be prioritised.
Number‐dependent association of potentially inappropriate medications with clinical outcomes and expenditures among community‐dwelling older adults: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Su Su , Gao Lingling , Ma Wenyao , Wang Chunguang , Cui Xiaohui , Liu Tong , Yan Suying
Published: February 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) prescribing and its number‐dependent association (PIM = 1, 2, ≥3) with all‐cause hospitalizations, emergency department (ED) visits, and medication expenditures in Beijing, China.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted to analyse PIM prescribing in community‐dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years within the Beijing Municipal Medical Insurance Database (data from July to September 2016). The prevalence of PIMs was estimated based on the 2015 Beers Criteria. Logistic models were utilized to investigate the associations between PIM use and all‐cause hospitalizations and ED visits. Generalized linear models with the logic link and gamma distribution were used to analyse associations between PIM use and medication expenditures.

Results

Among the 506 214 older adults, the prevalence of PIM was 38.07%. After adjusting for covariables, prescribing two and three or more PIMs was associated with increased risks of hospitalizations (PIM = 2: odds ratio [OR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22–1.47; PIM ≥ 3: OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.32–1.63) and ED visits (PIM = 2: OR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.12–1.48; PIM ≥ 3: OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04–1.44). Exposures to two and three or more PIMs were associated with higher medication expenditures for inpatient visits (PIM = 2: incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.08, 95% CI 1.01–1.16; PIM ≥ 3: IRR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08–1.28). Vasodilators were the most frequent PIM prescribing group among patients who were hospitalized or had to visit the ED.

Conclusions

PIMs were prescribed at a high rate among community‐dwelling older adults in Beijing. Two or more PIMs were associated with increased risks of hospitalizations, ED visits, and increased inpatient medication expenditures. Effective interventions are needed to target unnecessary and inappropriate medications in older adults.
Does the body talk to the body? The relationship between different body representations while observing others’ body parts
Authors: Tessari Alessia , Ottoboni Giovanni
Published: February 2022

The way human bodies are represented is central in everyday activities. The cognitive system must combine internal, visceral, and somatosensory, signals to external, visually driven information generated from the spatial placement of others’ bodies and the own body in the space. However, how different body representations covertly interact among them when observing human body parts is still unclear. Therefore, we investigated the implicit processing of body parts by manipulating either the body part stimuli’ posture (conditions a and b) or the participants’ response body posture (conditions c, d, and e) in healthy participants (N = 70) using a spatial compatibility task called Sidedness task. The task requires participants to judge the colour of a circle superimposed on a task‐irrelevant body part picture. Responses are facilitated when the spatial side of the responding hand corresponds to the spatial code generated by the hand stimulus's position with respect to a body of reference. Results showed that the observation of the task‐irrelevant body parts oriented participants’ attention and facilitated responses that were spatial compatible with the spatial position such body parts have within a configural representation of the body structure (i.e., Body Structural Representation) in all the five experimental conditions. Notably, the body part stimuli were mentally attached to the body according to the most comfortable and less awkward postures, following the anatomo‐physiological constraints. Moreover, the pattern of the results was not influenced by manipulating the participants’ response postures, suggesting that the automatic and implicit coding of the body part stimuli does not rely on proprioceptive information about one's body (i.e., Body Schema). We propose that the human body's morphometry knowledge is enriched by biomechanical and anatomo‐physiological information about the real body movement possibilities. Moreover, we discuss the importance of the automatic orienting of attention based on the sidedness within the context of imitational learning.
Motives for punishing powerful vs. prestigious offenders: The moderating role of group identity
Authors: Fousiani Kyriaki , van Prooijen Jan‐Willem
Published: February 2022

Status can be seen as power over valued resources or as prestige that lies in the eyes of the beholder. In the present research, we examine how power versus prestige influence observers’ punishing motives. Possession of power implies the capacity to harm and elicits threat and therefore should trigger stronger incapacitative motives for punishing an offender. In contrast, prestige signals the observer's admiration of the target and therefore should elicit a strong motivation to help an offender reintegrate into society. Studies 1 and 2 manipulated an offender's status (power vs. prestige vs. control) and group identity (ingroup vs. outgroup). Supporting our hypotheses, both studies revealed that observers had stronger incapacitative motivations towards powerful as opposed to prestigious offenders, particularly when the offender came from the ingroup. Study 2 also showed that observers had stronger restorative motives towards a prestigious as opposed to powerful offender. Contrary to expectations, group identity did not moderate the effect of status on observer's restorative motives. Study 3 manipulated power and prestige separately and showed that power elicits stronger incapacitative motives through ingroup threat and perceived capacity to harm. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
DNA Replication proteins in primary microcephaly syndromes
Authors: Tingler Melanie , Philipp Melanie , Burkhalter Martin D.
Published: February 2022

Improper expansion of neural stem and progenitor cells during brain development manifests in primary microcephaly. This disease is characterized by a reduced head circumference, which correlates with a reduction in brain size. This often corresponds to a general underdevelopment of the brain and entails cognitive, behavioral and motoric retardation. In the past decade significant research efforts have been undertaken to identify genes and the molecular mechanisms underlying microcephaly. One such gene set encompasses factors required for DNA replication. Intriguingly, a growing body of evidence indicates that a substantial number of these genes mediate faithful centrosome and cilium function in addition to their canonical function in genome duplication. Here, we summarize, which DNA replication factors are associated with microcephaly syndromes and to which extent they impact on centrosomes and cilia.
Correlating deformation events onshore and offshore in superimposed rift basins: The Lossiemouth Fault Zone, Inner Moray Firth Basin, Scotland
Authors: Tamas Alexandra , Holdsworth Robert E. , Underhill John R. , Tamas Dan M. , Dempsey Edward D. , McCarthy Dave J. , McCaffrey Ken J. W. , Selby David
Published: February 2022

The separation and characterisation of different deformation events in superimposed basins can be challenging due to the effects of overprinting and/or fault reactivation, combined with a lack of detailed geological or geophysical data. This paper shows how an onshore study can be enhanced using a targeted interpretation of contiguous structures offshore imaged by seismic reflection data. Two deformation events, including evidence of fault reactivation, are recognised and associated with the onshore part of the Lossiemouth Fault Zone (LFZ), southern‐central Inner Moray Firth Basin. The basin is thought to record a history of Permian to Cenozoic deformation, but it is difficult to conclusively define the age of faulting and fault reactivation. However, structures in onshore outcrops of Permo–Triassic strata show no evidence of fault growth, and new interpretation of seismic reflection profiles in the offshore area reveals that Permo–Triassic fills are widely characterised by subsidence and passive infill of post‐Variscan palaeotopography. We propose that sequences of reactivated faulting observed onshore and offshore can be correlated and can be shown in the latter domain to be Early Jurassic–Late Cretaceous, followed by localised Cenozoic reactivation. The workflow used here can be applied to characterise deformation events in other superimposed rift basins with contiguous onshore (surface)—offshore (subsurface) expressions.
Changing the main course: strong bat visitation to the ornithophilous mistletoe Psittacanthus robustus (Loranthaceae) in a Neotropical savanna
Authors: Diniz Ugo M. , Fischer Nina L. S. , Aguiar Ludmilla M. S.
Published: February 2022

The Neotropical genus Psittacanthus comprises mostly specialized ornithophilous mistletoes, with rare exceptions. Psittacanthus robustus is a common ornithophilous species from the South American savannas whose bright yellow flowers secrete copious diluted nectar. Due to a three‐day‐long anthesis and a short, non‐restrictive floral tube, we suggest that the species also serves as a resource for flower‐visiting bats. In a Cerrado area in central Brazil, we investigated the usage of the species by bats through systematic bat captures for pollen sampling, its nocturnal nectar secretion dynamics, mating system, and the relative dependence on diurnal and nocturnal pollinators for reproduction. Nine phyllostomid bat species visited P. robustus. Up to 50% of pollen samples from bats contained the species during peak flowering, equating or surpassing the prevalence of chiropterophilous species and representing roughly a third of the floral resources consumed by specialized nectarivores Glossophaga soricina and Anoura caudifer. Flowers actively produced nectar at night with volume and concentration values in the ideal ranges for bat consumption. Nectar is continuously secreted after sunset and accumulates in the absence of visitors. Psittacanthus robustus is self‐compatible but seeds are set mostly by diurnal visitors. Nocturnal animals had a low and secondary contribution to plant fitness. This is the second report of bat pollination for the genus Psittacanthus, and the largest assemblage of bat visitors for the family Loranthaceae. Although ornithophilous, P. robustus is an important resource for bats in the Brazilian savanna, potentially representing a mixed or early transitional state toward bat pollination.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Assessing caring activities in French adolescents and young adults: Relevance of the Multidimension Assessment of Caring Activities for Young Carers (MACA‐YC18)
Authors: Chevrier Basilie , Dorard Géraldine , Jarrige Eléonore , Joseph Stephen , Becker Saul , Leu Agnes , Untas Aurélie
Published: February 2022

Background

Young carers (YC) and young adult carers (YAC) have become of interest in research and practice. The 18‐item Multidimensional Assessment of Caring Activities for Young Carers (MACA‐YC18) was developed for identifying the extent and nature of caring activities across six domains: domestic chores, household management, financial/practical help, personal care, emotional care, and sibling care. The aim of this research was to investigate the psychometric properties of the French version of the MACA‐YC18.

Methods

Two quantitative studies were conducted in a general population among adolescents and young adults. The sample was composed of 2688 adolescents (Mage = 16.08; SDage = 0.98; 60.60% girls) in Study 1 and 1192 young adults (Mage = 20.52; SDage = 1.89; 78.27% girls) in Study 2. The psychometric properties were examined via construct validity through internal consistencies, confirmatory factorial analysis, and invariance measurement regarding: gender (girls vs. boys), having a sick/disabled relative (having vs. not), relative's type of illness/disability (physical illness vs. mental illness vs. other illnesses/disabilities), providing support to a sick/disabled relative (providing vs. not), and living arrangement (with family vs. not).

Results

In both studies, internal consistencies were in line with those reported in the literature, the 6‐factor structure was confirmed, and strict invariances were highlighted.

Conclusions

Results show that the French version of the MACA‐YC18 has good psychometric properties regarding construct validity not only among adolescents but also among young adults. This instrument appears to be a relevant screening tool for identifying and characterizing young carers in the general population.
A Piez-o the jigsaw: the Piezo1 channel in skin biology
Authors: Eid Edward Said , Kurban Mazen Samir
Published: February 2022

The skin is the largest organ covering the entirety of the body. Its role as a physical barrier to the outside world as well as its endocrinological and immunological functions subject it to continuous internal and external mechanical forces. Thus, mechanotransduction is of the utmost importance for the skin in order to process and leverage mechanical input for its various functions. Piezo1 is a mechanosensitive ion channel that is a primary mediator of mechanotransduction and is highly expressed in the skin. The discovery of Piezo1 earned a Nobel Prize, and has had a profound impact on our understanding of physiology and pathology including paramount contributions in cutaneous biology. This review provides insight into the roles of Piezo1 in the development, physiology and pathology of the skin with a special emphasis on the molecular pathways through which it instigates these various roles. In epidermal homeostasis, Piezo1 mediates cell extrusion in conditions of overcrowding and division in conditions of low cellular density. Piezo1 also aids in orchestrating mechanosensation, DNA protection from mechanical stress and the various components of wound healing. Conversely, Piezo1 is pathologically implicated in melanoma progression, wound healing delay, cutaneous scarring and hair loss. By shedding light on these functions, we aim to unravel the potential diagnostic and therapeutic value Piezo1 might hold in the field of Dermatology.
Demyelinating neuropathy requires differential diagnosis with vasculitic neuropathy in rheumatoid arthritis: Significance of sural nerve electrophysiology findings
Authors: Kobayashi Masaki , Takeuchi Megumi , Suzuki Miki , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Neuropathy is considered a complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), whose underlying mechanisms are mainly entrapment, drug‐induced and rheumatoid vasculitis (RV). At Tokyo Women's Medical University, for the purpose of diagnosing vasculitic neuropathy, we carried out nerve and muscle biopsies in nine RA patients. Unexpectedly, we found three cases of demyelinating neuropathy, together with six cases of RV. Our aim was to investigate the neurophysiological features of demyelinating neuropathy in patients with RA, compared with those of patients with RV.

Methods

We reviewed the pathological, clinical and electrophysiological findings in patients with RA who underwent nerve and muscle biopsies. We compared patient demographics and nerve conduction study findings between patients with RV and other patients.

Results

The histological findings showed necrotizing vasculitis in six of nine patients. Vasculitis was absent in the other three patients, which showed evidence of demyelination and remyelination. The absence of a sensory nerve action potential and compound motor action potential were observed more frequently in the RV cohort. Sural sparing, shown as the sural‐to‐median sensory nerve action potential ratio, was significantly higher in demyelinating neuropathy patients. Treatment was corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide in RV patients, and intravenous immunoglobulin was administered to three demyelinating neuropathy patients. Treatment response was satisfactory in seven of the nine patients.

Conclusion

Demyelinating neuropathy was found more often in patients with RA neuropathy than expected. Sural nerve sparing, as well as the absence of sensory nerve action potential or compound motor action potential, are useful for the differential diagnosis of demyelinating neuropathy with RV in RA patients with neuropathy.