bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Alcoholic Conversion of Glycerol by Engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Khattab Sadat M. R. , Watanabe Takashi
Published: May 2021

Glycerol is an eco-friendly solvent that enhances plant biomass decomposition via glycerolysis in many pretreatment methods. Nonetheless, the lack of efficient conversion of glycerol by natural Saccharomyces cerevisiae hinders its use in these methods. Here, we have aimed to develop a complete strategy for the generation of efficient glycerol-converting yeast by modifying the oxidation of cytosolic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) by an O2-dependent dynamic shuttle, while abolishing both glycerol phosphorylation and biosynthesis. By following a vigorous glycerol oxidation pathway, the engineered strain increased the conversion efficiency (CE) to up to 0.49 g ethanol/g glycerol (98% of theoretical CE), with production rate > 1 g·L·h, when glycerol was supplemented in a single fed-batch fermentation in a rich medium. Furthermore, the engineered strain fermented a mixture of glycerol and glucose, producing > 86 g/L bioethanol with 92.8% CE. To our knowledge, this is the highest ever reported titer in this field. Notably, this strategy changed conventional yeast from a non-grower on minimal medium containing glycerol to a fermenting strain with productivity of 0.25−0.5 g·L·h and 84−78% CE, which converted 90% of the substrate to products. Our findings may improve the utilization of glycerol in several eco-friendly biorefinery approaches.

IMPORTANCE

With the development of efficient lignocellulosic biorefineries, glycerol has attracted attention as an eco-friendly biomass-derived solvent that can enhance the dissociation of lignin and cell wall polysaccharides during the pretreatment process. Co-conversion of glycerol with the sugars released from biomass after glycerolysis increases the resources for ethanol production and lowers the burden of component separation. However, titer productivity hinders the industrial application of this process. Therefore, generation of efficient glycerol-fermenting yeast will promote the applicability of integrated biorefineries. Furthermore, glycerol is an important carbon source for the production of various chemicals. Hence, control of the metabolic flux of yeast grown on glycerol will contribute to the generation of cell factories that produce chemicals such as ethanol from glycerol, which will boost biodiesel and bioethanol industries. Additionally, the use of glycerol-fermenting yeast will reduce global warming and generation of agricultural waste, leading to the establishment of a sustainable society.
Vimentin binds to G-quadruplex repeats found at telomeres and gene promoters
Authors: Ceschi Silvia , Berselli Michele , Giantin Mery , Toppo Stefano , Spolaore Barbara , Sissi Claudia
Published: May 2021

G-quadruplex (G4) structures that can form at guanine-rich genomic sites, including telomeres and gene promoters, are actively involved in genome maintenance, replication, and transcription, through finely tuned interactions with protein networks. In the present study, we identified the intermediate filament protein Vimentin as a binder with nanomolar affinity for those G-rich sequences that give rise to at least two adjacent G4 units, named G4 repeats. This interaction is supported by the N-terminal domains of soluble Vimentin tetramers. The selectivity of Vimentin for G4 repeats vs individual G4s provides an unprecedented result. Based on GO enrichment analysis performed on genes having putative G4 repeats within their core promoters, we suggest that Vimentin recruitment at these sites may contribute to the regulation of gene expression during cell development and migration, possibly by reshaping the local higher-order genome topology, as already reported for lamin B.

Graphical abstract
INTEROCEPTIVE INFORMATION OF PHYSICAL VIGOR: OREXIN NEURONS GAUGE CIRCULATING IGF-I FOR MOTIVATIONAL MOTOR OUTPUT
Authors: Zegarra-Valdivia Jonathan A. , Fernandes Jansen , Esparza Julio , Suda Kentaro , de Sevilla Maria Estrella Fernandez , Díaz-Pacheco Sonia , Aleman Ignacio Torres
Published: May 2021

Brain regulation of bodily functions requires interoceptive feedback signals carrying information about the periphery. As mice with low serum IGF-I levels (LID mice) show reduced spontaneous physical activity, we speculated that body vigor information might be conveyed by circulating IGF-I, a regulator of skeletal muscle and bone mass that enters the brain during physical activity. Since hypothalamic orexin neurons, that are involved in regulating physical activity, express IGF-I receptors (IGF-IR), we hypothesized that these neurons might gauge circulating IGF-I levels. Inactivation of IGF-IR in mouse orexin neurons (Firoc mice) reduced spontaneous activity. Firoc mice maintain normal physical fitness but show anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors that seems to interfere with the rewarding effects of exercise, as they were less sensitive to the rewarding actions of exercise. Further, in response to exercise, Firoc mice showed reduced activation of hypothalamic orexin neurons and ventro-tegmental area (VTA) monoaminergic neurons, as indicated by c-fos staining. Collectively, these results suggest that circulating IGF-I is gauged by orexin neurons to modulate physical activity in part by stimulation of the VTA to motivate motor output. Hence, serum IGF-I may constitute a feedback signal, informing orexin neurons to adapt physical activity to physical vigor.
Biomechanical property of limbal niche maintains stemness through YAP
Authors: Bhattacharya Swarnabh , Mukherjee Abhishek , Pisano Sabrina , Dimri Shalini , Knaane Eman , Altshuler Anna , Nasser Waseem , Dey Sunanda , Shi Lidan , Mizrahi Ido , Jokel Ophir , Amitai-Lange Aya , Kaganovsky Anna , Mimouni Michael , Socea Sergiu , Hasson Peleg , Feral Chloe , Wolfenson Haguy , Shalom-Feuerstein Ruby
Published: May 2021

Stem cells’ (SCs) decision to self-renew or differentiate largely depends on the external control of their niche. However, the complex mechanisms that underlie this crosstalk are poorly understood. To address this question, we focused on the corneal epithelial SC model in which the SC niche, known as the limbus, is spatially segregated from the differentiation compartment. We report that the unique biomechanical property of the limbus supports the nuclear localization and function of Yes-associated protein (YAP), a putative mediator of the mechanotransduction pathway. Perturbation of tissue stiffness or YAP activity affects SC function as well as tissue integrity under homeostasis and significantly inhibited the regeneration of the SC population following SC depletion. In vitro experiments revealed that substrates with the rigidity of the corneal differentiation compartment inhibit YAP localization and induce differentiation, a mechanism that is mediated by the TGFβ−SMAD2/3 pathway. Taken together, these results indicate that SC sense biomechanical niche signals and that manipulation of mechano-sensory machinery or its downstream biochemical output may bear fruits in SC expansion for regenerative therapy.

Highlights

YAP is essential for limbal SC function, regeneration, and dedifferentiation

Lox over-expression stiffens the limbal niche, affects SC phenotype and corneal integrity

Corneal rigidity represses YAP and stemness in a SMAD2/3-dependent manner

Manipulation of mechanosensory or TGF-β pathway influences limbal SC expansion in vitro
nf-LO: A scalable, containerised workflow for genome-to-genome lift over
Authors: Talenti Andrea , Prendergast James
Published: May 2021

The increasing availability of new genome assemblies often comes with an impaired amount of associated genomic annotations, limiting the range of studies that can be performed. A common workaround is to lift over annotations from better annotated genomes. However, generating the files required to perform a liftover is computationally and labour intensive and only a limited number are currently publicly available.

Here we present nf-LO (nextflow-LiftOver), a containerised and scalable Nextflow pipeline that enables liftovers within and between any species for which assemblies are available. nf-LO will consequently facilitates data interpretation across a broad range of genomic studies.
Binding affinity landscapes constrain the evolution of broadly neutralizing anti-influenza antibodies
Authors: Phillips Angela M. , Lawrence Katherine R. , Moulana Alief , Dupic Thomas , Chang Jeffrey , Johnson Milo S. , Cvijović Ivana , Mora Thierry , Walczak Aleksandra M. , Desai Michael M.
Published: May 2021

Over the past two decades, several broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) that confer protection against diverse influenza strains have been isolated1,2. Structural and biochemical characterization of these bnAbs has provided molecular insight into how they bind distinct antigens1. However, our understanding of the evolutionary pathways leading to bnAbs, and thus how best to elicit them, remains limited. Here, we measure equilibrium dissociation constants of combinatorially complete mutational libraries for two naturally isolated influenza bnAbs3–5 (CR-9114, 16 mutations; CR-6261, 11 mutations), reconstructing all possible intermediates back to the unmutated germline sequences. We find that these two libraries exhibit strikingly different patterns of breadth: while many variants of CR-6261 display moderate affinity to diverse antigens, those of CR-9114 display appreciable affinity only in specific, nested combinations. By examining the extensive pairwise and higher-order epistasis between mutations, we find key sites with strong synergistic interactions that are highly similar across antigens for CR-6261 and different for CR-9114. Together, these features of the binding affinity landscapes strongly favor sequential acquisition of affinity to diverse antigens for CR-9114, while the acquisition of breadth to more similar antigens for CR-6261 is less constrained. These results, if generalizable to other bnAbs, may explain the molecular basis for the widespread observation that sequential exposure favors greater breadth6–8, and such mechanistic insight will be essential for predicting and eliciting broadly protective immune responses.
Analysis of alternative polyadenylation from single-cell RNA-seq using scDaPars reveals cell subpopulations invisible to gene expression
Authors: Gao Yipeng , Li Lei , Amos Christopher I. , Li Wei
Published: May 2021

Alternative polyadenylation (APA) is a major mechanism of post-transcriptional regulation in various cellular processes including cell proliferation and differentiation, but the APA heterogeneity among single cells remains largely unknown. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been extensively used to define cell subpopulations at the transcription level. Yet, most scRNA-seq data have not been analyzed in an “APA-aware” manner. Here, we introduce dynamic analysis of APA from single-cell RNA-seq (scDaPars), a bioinformatics algorithm to accurately quantify APA events at both single-cell and single-gene resolution using either 3′-end (10x Chromium) or full-length (Smart-seq2) scRNA-seq data. Validations in both real and simulated data indicate that scDaPars can robustly recover missing APA events caused by the low amounts of mRNA sequenced in single cells. When applied to cancer and human endoderm differentiation data, scDaPars not only revealed cell-type-specific APA regulation but also identified cell subpopulations that are otherwise invisible to conventional gene expression analysis. Thus, scDaPars will enable us to understand cellular heterogeneity at the post-transcriptional APA level.
Hong Kong as public administration metropolis in the internationalization of public administration education: one Hong Kong university experience
Authors: Wong Vincent
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This article explores the roles and the expertise of Hong Kong in the internationalization of public administration education.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on the data of 5 internationalization initiatives of one Hong Kong university with its internationalization partners in Macau, Korea, Australia, Russia and Finland. The data obtained lasted for a period of 18 months, from September 2019 to March 2021.

Findings

The finding of this study revealed that (1) there are 5 “pubtropolis roles” (roles of a public administration metropolis) of Hong Kong in the internationalization of public administration education in China, Asia, Asia-Pacific, Belt-and-Road and Europe. The findings also revealed that (2) Hong Kong served as a pubtropolis with its “5C” expertise in curriculum innovation, customized training, competence framework, competence assessment and comparative policy.

Research limitations/implications

As the methodology of this article is based on the data of 5 internationalization initiatives of one Hong Kong university by one academia only, further studies can be conducted at department, faculty or university level for multiple academia.

Practical implications

There are two practical implications: (1) The more the roles of a city, the broader the view in its internationalization of public administration initiatives; (2) Hong Kong could further tap on its expertise in “5C” in public administration: curriculum innovation, customized training, competence framework, competence assessment and comparative policy to exert its “geo-management” power.

Social implications

This article argues that public services can be improved by the setting up of “Sabbatical Leave Scheme for Internationalization of Public Administration” by respective governments to sustain the impacts observed.

Originality/value

It is from the author's original work.
A note on variation iteration method with an application on Lane–Emden equations
Authors: Verma Amit K. , Kumar Narendra , Singh Mandeep , Agarwal Ravi P.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

In this article, the authors consider the following nonlinear singular boundary value problem (SBVP) known as Lane–Emden equations, −u″(t)-(α/t) u′(t) = g(t, u), 0 < t < 1 where α ≥ 1 subject to two-point and three-point boundary conditions. The authors propose to develop a novel method to solve the class of Lane–Emden equations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors improve the modified variation iteration method (VIM) proposed in [JAAC, 9(4) 1242–1260 (2019)], which greatly accelerates the convergence and reduces the computational task.

Findings

The findings revealed that either exact or highly accurate approximate solutions of Lane–Emden equations can be computed with the proposed method.

Originality/value

Novel modification is made in the VIM that provides either exact or highly accurate approximate solutions of Lane-Emden equations, which does not exist in the literature.
The knowledge of triage system in disaster among emergency medical service personnel at Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Riyadh city stations
Authors: Althunayyan Saqer , Alhalybah Abdullah , Aloudah Ahmed , Samarkandi Osama A. , Khan Anas A.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment (START) is a unique triage system used by prehospital providers during disasters to quickly categorize and prioritize patient care according to severity. This study aims at evaluating knowledge about the START triage system among field emergency medical service (EMS) personnel working at the Saudi Red Crescent Authority (SRCA) in the stations of the city of Riyadh.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a cross-sectional study that examined data collected from August 2019 to January 2020. The statistical population is from all field EMS personnel working in the SRCA located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Using simple random sampling, 239 field EMS personnel were assessed, and 235 completed the study (98.3% response rate). Data were collected electronically using demographics and 15 multiple choice emergency scenarios based on the START protocol.

Findings

The mean correct score is 8.21 ± 3.36 out of 15 questions of triage knowledge (score of 0–15 points), indicating that those respondents have moderate knowledge levels on the START triage tool. Physicians and paramedics have higher mean scores (10.13 ± 3.42 and 9.07 ± 3.22, respectively), which are significantly higher than emergency medical technicians and nurses (7.25 ± 3.15 and 5.63 ± 2.72, respectively; p < 0.05). The providers who attended the training course had higher mean scores (p < 0.05).

Originality/value

Based on the results of the study, field EMS personnel did not reflect full knowledge of START triage tool. An interdisciplinary approach that adopts reinforcement education and periodical training courses is highly recommended to improve the respondents' performance and productivity. Moreover, there was a noticeable correlation between performance of respondents on the one hand and their education levels and prior training on the other hand.
Lifestyle information from YouTube influencers: some consumption patterns
Authors: Thelwall Mike
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Despite lifestyle information needs being an important part of our daily lives, little is known about the role of common sources. Whilst magazines and television are traditional providers of lifestyle content, including for fashion, makeup, fitness and cookery, they have been partly replaced by content-creating online influencers.

Design/methodology/approach

To investigate this new resource, this article analyses comments on the videos of 223 UK female lifestyle influencers on YouTube for information about possible viewing patterns.

Findings

Three quarters of comments are written during the week of the video being published, consistent with videos being consumed with an information browsing function, rather than treated as an information resource to be searched when needed. Commenting on the videos of multiple influencers occurred often, suggesting that many viewers are not loyal to a single influencer. Thus, influencers seem to primarily support active scanning rather than searching for specific information. Typical viewers of UK female lifestyle influencers can therefore expect to accumulate lifestyle ideas and knowledge for potential future use in addition to gaining timely suggestions for near future routine decision-making.

Practical implications

Public-facing information professionals, health professionals and counsellors may consider recommending selected videos or influencers to help with lifestyle concerns.

Originality/value

This is the first large scale study of content-creating influencers as a lifestyle information resource.
Impact of firm's intellectual capital on firm performance: a study of Indian firms and the moderating effects of age and gender
Authors: Chatterjee Sheshadri , Chaudhuri Ranjan , Thrassou Alkis , Sakka Georgia
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically examine the impact of Indian firms' intellectual capital on firm performance, as well as the moderating effects of age and gender therein.

Design/methodology/approach

The research initially develops a theoretical model, through extant works and theories, which is subsequently empirically validated using the partial least square structural equation modeling technique with 328 respondents from 12 Indian firms.

Findings

The study concludes that specific dimensions of firms' intellectual capital, including structural capital, human capital and customer capital, positively and significantly impact firm performance, which in turn provides the firm competitive advantages. The study also finds that there are significant moderating effects of age and gender on the relationship between firm's intellectual capital and firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

Further to its evident contribution to scholarly knowledge and its provision of a validated model, which could be used in other emerging and developed markets as well, the research provides valuable practicable directions to firm executives regarding the importance and utilization of the structural, human and customer capital in improving firm performance and strengthening its competitive edge.

Originality/value

The study adds valuable knowledge to the body of literature on intellectual capital, through its explicit empirical findings, as well as through its focus on the significant emerging market of India.
Special and differential treatment in the WTO: framing differential treatment to achieve (real) development
Authors: Ukpe Aniekan , Khorana Sangeeta
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Special and differential treatment (SDT) in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has failed to integrate developing countries into the international trading system, as contemplated by the WTO Agreement, itself. This paper aims to interrogate the current application of SDT by WTO members as the possible undermining factor for SDT not delivering on its objective.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a qualitative legal methodology. This study conducts desk analysis of primary legal materials and existing literature to assess current reflections of SDT and draw lessons for reforms in the WTO.

Findings

From interrogating current SDT practice in the WTO and a comparative analysis with a similar differential treatment under the Montreal Protocol, this paper finds that indeed, the problem lies in the current approach to SDT application in the WTO. This study finds that the existing absence of eligibility criteria for determining access to SDT by countries is the core reason for the abuse and sub-optimal outcome from its application.

Originality/value

While making a case for a rules-based approach to differentiation in the WTO, this paper proposes a unique methodology for differentiating between developing countries for SDT, including the use of a composite indicator to ensure that indicators that are used sufficiently reflect their heterogeneous needs. Drawing inspiration from Gonzalezet al.(2011a), this study introduces an adaptation for selecting a threshold for graduation. Specifically, the proposal on the value of the standard deviation of countries from the weighted mean of the composite indicator as the threshold for graduating countries from SDT is novel.
Visualization of preference aggregation based on Weber point in social network group decision-making problem
Authors: Yang Zhiqin , Qian Wuyong , Wang Jue
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to construct a Weber point-based model to complete the visualization of preference aggregation in group decision-making problem, in which decision-makers are associated with trust relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study mainly comprises four parts: trust propagation, preference aggregation, opinion adjustment and alternative selection. Firstly, the incomplete trust between decision-makers is completed with trust transfer operators and propagation probability in trust propagation process. Secondly, a preference aggregation model based on Weber point is proposed to aggregate the group preference visually. Thirdly, opinions are adjusted to reach a consensus. Finally, the ranking of alternatives is determined by the correlation coefficient with the group preference as a reference.

Findings

The Weber point-based model proposed in this study can minimize the gap in the preference of alternatives between the group and all decision-makers, and realize the visualization of aggregation result. A case of plan selection is introduced to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed model.

Originality/value

By comparing the result with the weighted average-based preference aggregation method, the Weber point-based model proposed in this study can show the result of preference aggregation intuitively and improve group consensus.
Consumer buying behavior, sense of security and basic economic knowledge among young consumers with ASD-Asperger syndrome: an exploratory study
Authors: Frączek Bożena , Plutecka Katarzyna , Gagat-Matuła Anna , Czyż Anna
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify consumer buying behavior, sense of security on the market and basic economic knowledge among young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) – Asperger Syndrome, while the empirical goal is the development of conclusions and implications, which may be used in consumer strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research consisted of a pilot study and used the diagnostic survey method. A survey questionnaire of the own devising was used. The study used a purposive (arbitrary) sample. This was a non-probability respondent sample, consisting of subjective selection by researchers among a selected closed representative sample, the aim of which was to test the research tool (survey questionnaire) during the pilot study. The survey questionnaire was constructed on the basis of theoretical assumptions explaining consumer buying behavior and on a literature review regarding research conducted in this area. The study was conducted on adolescents aged between 16 and 19 years of age, 40 of whom suffered from ASD – Asperger syndrome and 50 of whom were without ASD – Asperger syndrome (control group).

Findings

The results indicate a limited range of consumer behaviors, a relatively poor sense of security in consumer (retail) spending and a limited understanding of fundamental consumer issues among young consumers with ASD – Asperger syndrome in comparison to people from the control group.

Practical implications

This study suggests that marketers should prepare diverse means of communication with consumers and a variety of sales strategies targeted at consumers with communication disorders. The research may be extended to include the large number of factors that influence consumer behavior among people with ASD – Asperger syndrome, together with the determination of the predictors. The factors contribute to a varying extent to constant changes in consumer behavior, which makes it necessary for longitudinal or even cyclical studies to be carried out. In further research, the research tool should be improved in terms of more precise questions relevant to a given issue and random sampling should be implemented.

Social implications

The research concept can be transferred to other vulnerable groups with communication disorders (e.g. with hearing disorders).

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to investigate selected aspects of consumer (and financial consumer) behavior among young people with ASD – Asperger syndrome.
Trust Between Teacher and Student in Academic Education at School
Authors: Platz Monika
Published: May 2021

What is the nature and what is the role of trust between teacher and student in academic education at school? Providing a philosophically informed answer to these questions is the aim of this paper. In its first part, I present a relationship account of trust based on two fundamental assumptions: first, trust between teacher and student is essentially about them being in a trust relationship, and second, the reasons for trust are relationship dependent. The second part explores the role of trust by looking at two aspects of academic education at school: the student's acquisition of knowledge from the teacher's testimony and the student's development of epistemic confidence, the latter being a key constituent of competent epistemic agency. Drawing on findings from developmental psychology, I explain how trust is involved in successful academic education at school. My aim is to provide a detailed conception of trust in the teacher–student relationship, as well as a conclusive argument for the importance and the value of trust in academic education at school.
Effect of extended‐release naltrexone on alcohol consumption: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Murphy Charles E. , Wang Ralph C. , Montoy Juan Carlos , Whittaker Evans , Raven Maria
Published: May 2021

Aims

The aims of this study were to (1) estimate the effect of extended‐release naltrexone compared with placebo on alcohol consumption in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and (2) conduct pre‐planned subgroup analyses to test whether being abstinent when initiating treatment (lead‐in abstinence) or the duration of treatment improves treatment efficacy.

Design

Systematic review and random‐effects meta‐analysis of blinded randomized placebo‐controlled trials reporting the effect extended‐release naltrexone on alcohol consumption.

Setting

Outpatient clinics.

Participants

Seven trials evaluating a total of 1500 adults with AUD receiving monthly injections of either placebo or extended‐release naltrexone at doses of 150–400 mg for 2–6 months and some form of behavioral therapy.

Measurements

Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) in drinking days per month and heavy drinking days per month.

Findings

The WMD was −2.0 [95% confidence interval (CI) = −3.4, −0.6; P = 0.03] in favor of extended‐release naltrexone for drinking days per month and −1.2 (95% CI = −0.2, −2.1; P = 0.02) for heavy drinking days per month, indicating that treatment resulted in two fewer drinking days per month and 1.2 fewer heavy drinking days per month compared with placebo. Trials not requiring lead‐in abstinence and those lasting longer than 3 months reported larger reductions in heavy drinking days per month; WMD –2.0 (95% CI = −3.52, −0.48; P = 0.01) and −1.9 (95% CI = −3.2, −0.5; P = 0.01), respectively. In all cases, the I2 statistics (0–7.2%) did not suggest substantial heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Extended‐release naltrexone reduces drinking days and heavy drinking days per month compared with placebo. Reductions are larger with a longer duration of treatment.
Health and health care access in the US transgender population health (TransPop) survey
Authors: Feldman Jamie L. , Luhur Winston Ekaprasetia , Herman Jody L. , Poteat Tonia , Meyer Ilan H.
Published: May 2021

Background

Probability and nonprobability‐based studies of US transgender persons identify different disparities in health and health care access.

Objectives

We used TransPop, the first US national probability survey of transgender persons, to describe and compare measures of health and health access among transgender, nonbinary, and cisgender participants. We directly compared the results with 2015 US Transgender Survey (USTS) data and with previously published analyses from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Methods

All participants were screened by Gallup Inc., which recruited a probability sample of US adults. Transgender people were identified using a two‐step screening process. Eligible participants completed self‐administered questionnaires (transgender n = 274, cisgender n = 1162). We obtained weighted proportions/means, then tested for differences between gender groups. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate associations. Bivariate analyses were conducted using the weighted USTS data set for shared variables in USTS and TransPop.

Results

Transgender participants were younger and more racially diverse compared to the cisgender group. Despite equally high insurance coverage, transgender people more often avoided care due to cost concerns. Nonbinary persons were less likely to access transgender‐related health care providers/clinics than transgender men and women. Transgender respondents more often rated their health as fair/poor, with more frequently occuring poor physical and mental health days compared to cisgender participants. Health conditions including HIV, emphysema, and ulcer were higher among transgender people. TransPop and USTS, unlike BRFSS‐based analyses, showed no differences in health or health access.

Discussion

Transgender persons experience health access disparities centered on avoidance of care due to cost beyond insured status. Health disparities correspond with models of minority stress, with nonbinary persons having distinct health/health access patterns. Despite different sampling methods, USTS and TransPop appear more similar than BRFSS studies regarding health/health access.

Conclusion

Future research should elucidate health care costs for transgender and nonbinary people, while addressing methodology in national studies of transgender health.
Delayed coloanal anastomosis as a stoma‐sparing alternative to immediate coloanal anastomosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Snow Y. , Ow Zachariah G. W. , Tan Darren J. H. , Tay Phoebe W. L. , Lim Sze Y. , Xiao Jieling , Wong Neng W. , Wong Kar Y. , Foo Fung J. , Chong Choon S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Recent clinical trials have demonstrated favorable outcomes associated with trans‐anal colonic pull‐through for rectal resection followed by delayed coloanal anastomoses (DCA), resulting in a resurgence in popularity of the technique. This meta‐analysis aims to review existing literature to evaluate the postoperative complications associated with DCA, and to make comparisons with immediate coloanal anastomoses (ICA) after colorectal resection to assess the suitability of DCA as an alternative form of surgical treatment.

Methods

Medline and Embase databases were reviewed from inception until 31 July 2020 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Single‐arm studies that involved patients undergoing DCA for benign or malignant causes were selected, and meta‐analysis of proportions was conducted to determine the prevalence of postoperative complications following DCA. Comparative studies comparing postoperative outcomes between DCA and ICA were also included for comparative meta‐analysis.

Results

Patients undergoing DCA were significantly less likely to require diverting stoma construction as compared to ICA (odds ratio [OR] = 0.04; confidence interval [CI]: 0.02–0.07; P < 0.001). Overall postoperative morbidity (OR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.23–1.12; P = 0.09) and mortality (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.12–1.98; P = 0.32) was comparable between DCA and ICA groups. No significant differences in perioperative complications, such as anastomotic leakage (OR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.11–1.64; P = 0.21), postoperative ileus, pelvic abscesses, or sepsis, were noted between DCA and ICA.

Conclusion

Our study shows no differences in complications or functional outcomes between DCA and ICA. Pooled analysis expectedly revealed a lower rate of diverting stoma in patients undergoing DCA. DCA is thus a safe alternative to current surgical practices where avoidance of a stoma is desired.
Predators override rainfall effects on tropical food webs
Authors: Ospina‐Bautista Fabiola , Srivastava Diane S. , González Angélica L. , Sparks Jed P. , Realpe Emilio
Published: May 2021

Predators alter ecological communities by inducing changes in prey abundance and phenotypes, including elemental and isotopic composition. Climatic factors are known to often moderate predator effects on prey abundance, but few studies consider the combined effects of climate and predators on prey phenotype. We examined how altered precipitation moderates the effects of predators on the abundance and the chemical composition of prey, as well as the indirect effects on the basal resource: leaf litter coated in biofilm. Using an experiment with an invertebrate food web module from tank bromeliads, we manipulated the presence of an odonate predator under scenarios of 10‐fold decreased, ambient, and threefold increased precipitation and measured responses of prey and their basal resource. Predators reduced prey abundance while precipitation did not. Both precipitation and predators, either singly or interactively, affected the elemental composition of prey. Predators increased C:N ratios of detritivorous beetles under high precipitation, but reduced the C:N ratio of the basal resource. Precipitation reduced the N content of filter‐feeding mosquitoes. The observed changes in chemical composition may reflect physiological or developmental responses to stress imposed by both predators and drought. This study demonstrates that the impact of predators and precipitation can vary substantially across a food web, including additive and synergistic effects, and numerical and phenotypic responses.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
An AKT/PRMT5/SREBP1 axis in lung adenocarcinoma regulates de novo lipogenesis and tumor growth
Authors: Liu Liu , Yan Hui , Ruan Maomei , Yang Hao , Wang Lihua , Lei Bei , Sun Xiaoyan , Chang Cheng , Huang Gang , Xie Wenhui
Published: May 2021

Protein kinase B (AKT) hyperactivation and de novo lipogenesis are both common in tumor progression. Sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 1 (SREBP1) is the master regulator for tumor lipid metabolism, and protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) is an enzyme that can catalyze symmetric dimethyl arginine (SDMA) modification of the mature form of SREBP1 (mSREBP1) to induce its hyperactivation. Here, we report that SDMA‐modified mSREBP1 (mSREBP1‐SDMA) was overexpressed and correlated with Ser473‐phosphorylated AKT (AKT‐473P) expression and poor patient outcomes in human lung adenocarcinomas. Furthermore, patients with AKT‐473P and mSREBP1‐SDMA coexpression showed the worst prognosis. Mechanistic investigation revealed that AKT activation upregulated SREBP1 at both the transcriptional and post‐translational levels, whereas PRMT5 knockdown reversed AKT signaling‐mediated mSREBP1 ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway stabilization at the post‐translational level. Meanwhile, AKT activation promoted nuclear PRMT5 to the cytoplasm without changing total PRMT5 expression, and the transported cytoplasmic PRMT5 (cPRMT5) induced by AKT activation showed a strong mSREBP1‐binding ability. Immunohistochemical assay indicated that AKT‐473P and mSREBP1‐SDMA were positively correlated with cPRMT5 in lung adenocarcinomas, and high cPRMT5 levels in tumors were associated with poor patient outcomes. Additionally, PRMT5 knockdown reversed AKT activation‐induced lipid synthesis and growth advantage of lung adenocarcinoma cells both in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we defined an AKT/PRMT5/SREBP1 axis involved in de novo lipogenesis and the growth of lung cancer. Our data also support that cPRMT5 is a potential therapeutic target for hyperactive AKT‐driven lung adenocarcinoma.
Chronic bacterial pulmonary infections in advanced cystic fibrosis differently affect the level of sputum neutrophil elastase, IL-8 and IL-6
Authors: Majka Grzegorz , Mazurek Henryk , Strus Magdalena , Ciszek-Lenda Marta , Szatanek Rafał , Pac Agnieszka , Golińska Edyta , Marcinkiewicz Janusz
Published: May 2021

Advanced cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease is commonly characterized by a chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and destructive inflammation caused by neutrophils. However, the lack of convincing evidence from most informative biomarkers of severe lung dysfunction (SLD-CF) has hampered the formulation of a conclusive, targeted diagnosis of CF. The aim of this study was to determine whether SLD-CF is related to the high concentration of sputum inflammatory mediators and the presence of biofilm-forming bacterial strains. Forty-one patients with advanced CF lung disease were studied. The severity of pulmonary dysfunction was defined by forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) < 40%. C-reactive protein (CRP) and NLR (neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio) were examined as representative blood-based markers of inflammation. Expectorated sputum was collected and analysed for cytokines and neutrophil-derived defence proteins. Isolated sputum bacteria were identified and their biofilm-forming capacity was determined. There was no association between FEV1% and total number of sputum bacteria. However, in the high biofilm-forming group the median FEV1 was < 40%. Importantly, high density of sputum bacteria was associated with increased concentrations of neutrophil elastase and interleukin (IL)-8 and low concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10. The low concentration of sputum IL-6 is unique for CF and distinct from that observed in other chronic pulmonary inflammatory diseases. These findings strongly suggest that expectorated sputum is an informative source of pulmonary biomarkers representative for advanced CF and may replace more invasive bronchoalveolar lavage analysis to monitor the disease. We recommend to use of the following inflammatory biomarkers: blood CRP, NLR and sputum elastase, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10.
Psychogenic non‐epileptic seizure‐status in patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Authors: Mezouar Nicolas , Demeret Sophie , Rotge Jean Yves , Dupont Sophie , Navarro Vincent
Published: May 2021

Background

Psychogenic non‐epileptic seizure‐status (PNES‐status), defined by psychogenic non‐epileptic seizures (PNES) over 30 min, are often misdiagnosed as status epilepticus. We aimed to describe the features of patients who experienced PNES‐status, admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

We screened the patients hospitalized in our epilepsy unit during a 4‐year period, with a diagnosis of PNES‐status and ICU admission.

Results

Among 171 patients with PNES, we identified 25 patients (15%) who presented 39 episodes of PNES‐status leading to ICU admission. Some 76% of the patients were women. The median age at the time of the PNES‐status episode was 35 years. Half (48%) alleged a history of epilepsy, but epilepsy was confirmed in only 12%. A history of psychiatric disease was found in 68%. PNES were present in 85% of patients before PNES‐status, and semiology of PNES and PNES‐status was similar for 79% of the patients, including hyperkinetic movements in 95% of the episodes and suspected loss of consciousness in 87%. Benzodiazepines were administrated in 77% of the episodes, antiepileptic drugs in 87%, and antibiotherapy for a ICU‐related infection in 15% of the episodes. Oral intubation was performed in 41% of the episodes. Blood tests showed normal levels of creatine phosphokinase and leucocytes in 90% and 95% of the episodes, respectively. No epileptic activity was found during per‐event electroencephalography but interictal epileptic activity was found in 10% of the episodes.

Conclusion

Hyperkinetic PNES‐status should always be considered as a differential diagnosis of status epilepticus, with a high risk of iatrogenic consequences.
HUMAN CAPITAL AND THE SOCIAL SECURITY TAX CAP
Authors: Blandin Adam
Published: May 2021

This article assesses the revenue potential of removing the Social Security payroll tax cap. I do so within an overlapping generations (OLG) model featuring heterogeneous agents who endogenously invest in risky human capital. Removing the tax cap leads to a sizable increase in Social Security revenues, but also produces a decrease in federal income tax revenues. Taking both Social Security and income taxes into account, removing the tax cap does not raise sufficient revenues to offset looming demographic changes. One factor limiting revenue gains is that removing the tax cap reduces aggregate output, with human capital investment playing a central role.
An integrative review of waiting time, queuing, and design as contributory factors to emergency department violence
Authors: Timmins Fiona , Timmins Bernard
Published: May 2021

Objective

Reports of violence in health care are continuously increasing. Globally there are attempts to manage this phenomenon. However, while risk factors have been identified, there is a tendency to over accentuate the extent of their contribution. Alcohol and drug misuse, for example, are frequently reported, with limited consideration of the ED environment. By far the biggest cause of violence appears to be the presentation of conditions related to or accompanied by mental illness and the impact of queuing and crowded departments on patients and their families. This study aims to examine the extent to which ED waiting times, design and queuing are linked to ED violence.

Methods

An integrative literature review was performed using CINAHL Complete and MEDLINE databases. 110 papers were initially selected, and the final analysis included 25 papers.

Results

The literature revealed three emerging themes: the nature of emergency department violence, environmental contributory factors and its management and control.

Conclusion

The findings of this review reveal several causes of violence. Surprisingly most approaches take a victim blaming approach aimed at identifying potential perpetrators rather than taking a holistic approach to prevention that would also address environmental and societal issues. More is needed in terms of implementation of more far‐reaching, practical, and effective management solutions to promote health care workers’ safety and adequately support vulnerable patients.
Life “With” Or “Without”? An Empirical Study of Homicide Sentencing
Authors: O'Hear Michael , Wheelock Darren
Published: May 2021

The number of Americans serving sentences of life without the possibility of parole (“LWOP”) has grown rapidly over the past generation and now exceeds 50,000. Yet, little empirical research has been conducted on the determinants of LWOP sentences. The dearth of research on LWOP sentencing stands in sharp contrast to the many dozens of studies that have been conducted on the determinants of death sentences–studies that have consistently found that race, gender, and other questionable factors may influence sentencing outcomes. The present study is the first to employ a similar methodology to identify both case‐ and county‐level variables that are correlated with the imposition of discretionary LWOP sentences.

More specifically, we have assessed the relationship between fifty different variables and LWOP decisions in 450 homicide cases in Wisconsin between 2001 and 2018. In our final model, we find seven variables that are correlated with sentencing outcomes. Of particular note, we find that judge and prosecutor personal characteristics are statistically significant correlates of LWOP decisions. We also find a significantly greater likelihood that LWOP sentences will be imposed in counties that are more Republican. We conclude with a proposal for a new LWOP sentencing process that may help to ensure that this very severe sentence is reserved for the most serious crimes committed by the most dangerous defendants.
Which scoring system should be used for non‐variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding? Old or new?
Authors: Jeon Hong Jae , Moon Hee Seok , Kwon In Sun , Kang Sun Hyung , Sung Jae Kyu , Jeong Hyun Yong
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim

Several scoring systems for predicting outcomes in patients with non‐variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) have recently been devised, but not sufficiently validated. We compared the predictive accuracy of several scoring systems and assessed the usefulness of new scoring systems.

Methods

The medical records of 1048 patients with NVUGIB were reviewed to collect demographic, clinical, laboratory, and endoscopic data. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCs) were calculated for the ABC, new Japanese scoring system, Progetto Nazionale Emorrhagia Digestiva (PNED), and other scores to compare their predictive accuracy for 30‐day mortality, therapeutic intervention, rebleeding, and prolonged hospital stay (≥ 10 days). Outcome predictors were identified by multivariate analysis.

Results

The ABC, new Japanese scoring system, and PNED scores best predicted 30‐day mortality (AUROC 0.907), need for therapeutic intervention (AUROC 0.707), and rebleeding (AUROC 0.874), respectively (all P < 0.001). The ABC and PNED scores were similarly better at predicting prolonged hospital stay (ABC AUROC: 0.765; PNED AUROC: 0.790; both P < 0.001). Thirty‐day mortality was related to sex, systolic blood pressure (SBP), syncope, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albumin, heart failure, disseminated malignancy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and liver cirrhosis. Sex, age, SBP, hematemesis, blood urea nitrogen, and eGFR independently predicted the need for therapeutic intervention. Sex, SBP, pulse, albumin level, heart failure, disseminated malignancy, and COPD predicted rebleeding.

Conclusion

The outcomes of patients with NVUGIB were better predicted by newly developed than by old scoring systems.