bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mate assessment based on physical characteristics: a review and reflection
Authors: Watkins Christopher D.
Published: August 2024

Mate choice, and sex differences in romantic behaviours, represented one of the first major applications of evolutionary biology to human behaviour. This paper reviews Darwinian approaches to heterosexual mate assessment based on physical characteristics, placing the literature in its historical context (1871–1979), before turning (predominantly) to psychological research on attractiveness judgements based on physical characteristics. Attractiveness is consistently inferred across multiple modalities, with biological theories explaining why we differentiate certain individuals, on average, from others. Simultaneously, it is a judgement that varies systematically in light of our own traits, environment, and experiences. Over 30 years of research has generated robust effects alongside reasons to be humble in our lack of understanding of the precise physiological mechanisms involved in mate assessment. This review concludes with three questions to focus attention in further research, and proposes that our romantic preferences still provide a critical window into the evolution of human sexuality.
Thymoquinone reversed doxorubicin resistance in U87 glioblastoma cells via targeting PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling
Authors: Shimia Mohammad , Amini Monireh , Ravari Armin Ostovar , Tabnak Peyman , Valizadeh Amir , Ghaheri Mohammad , Yousefi Bahman
Published: August 2024

Natural compounds such as thymoquinone (TQ) have recently gained increasing attention in treating glioblastoma (GBM). However, the effects of TQ in reversing drug resistance are not completely understood. Therefore, we aimed to examine TQ impacts on GBM cells with doxorubicin (DOX) resistance and the involvement of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. GBM cancer U87 and U87/DOX (resistant cells) cells were exposed to DOX and TQ, and cell proliferation was assessed by the MTT assay. ELISA was applied to evaluate cell apoptosis. The expression of apoptotic mediators such as Caspase‐3, Bax, Bcl‐2 and PI3K, Akt, mTOR, P‐gp, and PTEN was assessed via qRT‐PCR and western blot. We found that a combination of TQ and DOX suppressed dose‐dependent cell growth capacity in cells and increased the cytotoxic effects of DOX in resistant cells. In addition, TQ treatment increased DOX‐mediated apoptosis in U87/DOX cell lines via modulating the pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic markers. A combination of TQ and DOX upregulated PTEN and downregulated PI3K, Akt, and mTOR, suppressing this signal transduction in resistant cells. In conclusion, we showed TQ potentiated doxorubicin‐mediated antiproliferative and pro apoptotic function DOX‐resistant glioblastoma cells, which is mediated by targeting and suppressing PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal transduction.
Ceramics as potential materials in pollution prevention and control
Authors: Pipil Poonam , Tomer Tapasya , Payal Ritu
Published: August 2024

The social progress, economic growth, and meteoric urbanization prompt the exploitation of available resources triggering the contagion of the biological and physical elements of the atmosphere irrationally causing global environmental pollution. Environmental contamination monitoring is a dire necessity. Although a number of technologies find mention in the literature for environmental remediation, however, environmental catalysis is an advanced steadily growing technique for pollution abatement. In this dimension, ceramic materials have turned heads due to their wide‐scale application areas. Hitherto, research is being done on advanced ceramics to fabricate novel modules for energy storage applications, in designing green buildings, pollution rheostats, and environmental engineering. This article deals with the abatement of environmental contaminants by adopting various methodologies such as aerobic and anaerobic biological treatments, adsorption, chemical oxidation, membrane separation, photocatalysis, ozonation using the ceramic as precursor materials. The ceramic membranes are cost‐effective, ecofriendly, efficacious, and green approach to obliterate toxins and harmful gases released in environment. Even though, limited literature is available on the abolition of harmful contaminants from air and soil using ceramic materials, an attempt has been made to present currently available data with best of our knowledge. This article will sensitize researchers to refabricate novel materials for environment sustainability.
Product Review Reading and Rating Statistics: How Do They Affect Consumer Product Evaluation?
Authors: Guan Chong , Lam Shun Yin
Published: August 2024

Marketers are concerned about how consumers' readings of product reviews and product rating statistics affect product evaluations. Previous studies generally regard product review content and rating statistics as affecting product evaluations independently. This may not be true. Typically, consumers enter a review section with pre‐existing positive expectations about a product. When they see a negative average rating in this section, their expectancies are disconfirmed. Their surprise stemming from the disconfirmation makes them read the reviews more carefully. Thus, review reading affects product evaluation more strongly when viewing a negative average rating. Conversely, a positive average rating results in expectancy confirmation, which weakens the effect of review reading. An eye‐tracking experiment using a mock‐resort review section supported these predictions. These findings have implications for marketers in behavioral advertising, responding to reviews, and consumers writing reviews.
Skin‐on and skin‐off processing methods affect processing efficiency, product yield and meat quality of goat carcass
Authors: Chao M. D. , Ma D. , Jeneske H. , Pokharel S. , Moallem J. T. , Stephens L. N. , Debus A. D. , Reynolds E. , Kang I.
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the effects of skin‐on and skin‐off processing methods on processing efficiency, product yield and meat quality of goat carcasses. A total of twenty‐seven goats (nine/treatment, 6 months old) were processed using three methods: (1) skin‐on for ethnic consumers, (2) skin‐off for traditional consumers and (3) skin‐off‐late (skin removal after chilling) for primarily traditional consumers, with an option for ethnic consumers with skin‐on. Processing times (slaughter, chilling, fabrication) and yields (chilling and fabrication) were compared. Meat quality and appearance were evaluated using sarcomere length, Warner‐Brazler shear force, collagen content and muscle colour. Skin‐on carcasses required significantly longer chilling times to reach the internal body temperature at ≤4.4 °C (9.5 h) compared to skin‐off carcasses (7 h), presumably due to the presence of the skin. Despite this, the total processing time from stunning to fabrication showed no significant difference across treatments, although the skin‐off‐late carcasses had longer fabrication times due to the skin removal step (P < 0.05). Dressing yield was lower in the skin‐off group, and fabrication yield was reduced in the skin‐off‐late carcasses (P < 0.05). Skin‐on and skin‐off‐late carcasses showed longer sarcomere lengths and lower Warner Bratzler shear forces than skin‐off carcasses (P < 0.05). Additionally, the skin‐on group had higher collagen content than the skin‐off group. Muscle L* values were higher in skin‐on and skin‐off‐late carcasses (P < 0.05), with no significant differences in a* and b* values across treatments. This research highlights the potential benefits of the skin‐off‐late method for goat farmers, processors and consumers, offering improved dressing yield, meat tenderness and visual appearance. The skin‐off‐late method also provides an alternative processing option that could satisfy both traditional and ethnic consumer preferences.
Effectiveness of textured vegetable protein incorporation for partial fish meat substitution in fish cakes
Authors: Oh Jungmin , Park Min Kyung , Kim Bo Ram , Kwak Han Sub
Published: August 2024

Excessive consumption of seafood has resulted in a decline in fish stocks and the destruction of ecosystems worldwide. Textured vegetable proteins (TVPs) can be used in manufacturing fish products, including surimi‐based fish cakes, to prevent these problems. In this study, we aimed to incorporate TVP into fish cakes as an alternative to fish meat (surimi). Fish cake samples containing TVP (0, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%) were prepared and cooked through boiling or frying. Texture profiles, volatile compounds and consumer acceptance of the fish cake samples were measured. An increase in TVP content enhanced the protein content of the samples, making them more suitable than fish meat is as a protein source. In the fish cake samples, the textural properties, including hardness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess and chewiness, increased with increasing TVP content. Analysis of the volatile compounds showed that hexanal and 2‐pentifuran, which are primarily responsible for the grassy or beany flavour of soy, increased with increasing TVP content in fish cakes. The levels of these components were significantly lower in the fried samples than in the boiled samples. Overall, fried fish cakes containing 5% TVP (FST5) exhibited acceptance ratings similar to those of the control. Moreover, FST5 scored the highest in appearance, odour, taste and overall liking. Therefore, fried fish cakes supplemented with 5% TVP were qualitatively similar to fried fish cakes containing 100% fish meat (surimi). We propose the partial substitution of fish meat with alternative products to potentially reduce overfishing.
Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances in blue crabs from the Adriatic Sea and consumer safety evaluation
Authors: Nobile Maria , Curci Dalia , Rampazzo Giulia , Chiesa Luca Maria , Gazzotti Teresa , Ghidini Sergio , Arioli Francesco , Panseri Sara
Published: August 2024

The blue crab is one of the most invasive alien species in the Mediterranean Sea. Its remarkable surge in availability suggests an imminent increase in consumption. However, blue crabs are vulnerable to contamination by per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known to accumulate in the food chain and pose health risks to humans. Data on PFAS contamination levels in blue crabs are a few. This study investigates 26 PFAS in 113 blue crabs by UHPLC‐HRMS. Results revealed higher concentrations in cephalothorax than in claws. PFHpA, PFHxS, PFOA, PFNA, PFOS, PFUnDA, PFDoDA, PFTrDA, PFHpS, and PFBA were among the most detected PFAS. Total PFAS mean concentration ranged from 0.65 to 2.61 ng g−1 ww. Three crabs exceeded maximum residue limits for PFOA, PFNA, and PFHxS. Statistical analyses suggested a correlation between contaminants presence and crab size. PCA highlighted the weight as a potential predictor of PFOS concentration. PFAS intake evaluation showed no risk for consumers.
Early postoperative core symptoms and their relationship with resilience in oesophageal cancer patients—A multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Li Shaoxue , Wu Lijun , He Jie , Ge Yaping , Li Shuwen
Published: August 2024

Aim

To assess early postoperative core symptoms in oesophageal cancer patients and their relationship with resilience.

Background

Patients with oesophageal cancer face a high number of severe symptoms in the early post‐operative period and require the development of an effective symptom management programme. Identifying core symptoms through network analysis helps in accurate patient care.

Design

A multicentre cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted from August 2022 to August 2023 at three hospitals in Anhui Province, China. A total of 469 patients were recruited for this study and 418 (89.1%) patients completed this investigation. Using network analysis to find early post‐operative core symptoms in oesophageal cancer patients. Multiple linear regression was used to analyse resilience factors affecting core symptoms.

Results

Sadness was the most core symptom in oesophageal cancer patients in the early post‐operative period (rs = 1.41), followed by incision pain and difficulty breathing while resting (rs = 1.20, rs = 1.08). Resilience was significantly associated with patients' feelings of sadness, with optimism having the greatest impact on sadness (p < .01).

Conclusion

Sadness is the most core symptom in patients in the early post‐operative period and special attention should be paid to improving their level of resilience. Local symptoms and dysfunction in the early post‐operative period should be treated in a synergistic manner.

Impact

This study identifies core symptoms and their relationship to resilience in patients with oesophageal cancer in the early post‐operative period. Symptoms as the main core symptom in patients in the early post‐operative period, which was sadness and was significantly associated with resilience. Precise interventions can be made to target patients' core post‐operative symptoms, which can help improve the effectiveness of symptom management.

Reporting Method

We have complied with the relevant EQUATOR research reporting checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution in the study.
The genome of Eleocharis vivipara elucidates the genetics of C3–C4 photosynthetic plasticity and karyotype evolution in the Cyperaceae
Authors: Liu Hongbing , Zhao Hang , Zhang Yanwen , Li Xiuli , Zuo Yi , Wu Zhen , Jin Kaining , Xian Wenfei , Wang Wenzheng , Ning Weidong , Liu Zijian , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Wang Lei , Sage Rowan F. , Lu Tiegang , Stata Matt , Cheng Shifeng
Published: August 2024

Eleocharis vivipara, an amphibious sedge in the Cyperaceae family, has several remarkable properties, most notably its alternate use of C3 photosynthesis underwater and C4 photosynthesis on land. However, the absence of genomic data has hindered its utility for evolutionary and genetic research. Here, we present a high‐quality genome for E. vivipara, representing the first chromosome‐level genome for the Eleocharis genus, with an approximate size of 965.22 Mb mainly distributed across 10 chromosomes. Its Hi–C pattern, chromosome clustering results, and one‐to‐one genome synteny across two subgroups indicates a tetraploid structure with chromosome count 2n = 4x = 20. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that E. vivipara diverged from Cyperus esculentus approximately 32.96 million years ago (Mya), and underwent a whole‐genome duplication (WGD) about 3.5 Mya. Numerous fusion and fission events were identified between the chromosomes of E. vivipara and its close relatives. We demonstrate that E. vivipara has holocentromeres, a chromosomal feature which can maintain the stability of such chromosomal rearrangements. Experimental transplantation and cross‐section studies showed its terrestrial culms developed C4 Kranz anatomy with increased number of chloroplasts in the bundle sheath (BS) cells. Gene expression and weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) showed overall elevated expression of core genes associated with the C4 pathway, and significant enrichment of genes related to modified culm anatomy and photosynthesis efficiency. We found evidence of mixed nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide ‐ malic enzyme and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase type C4 photosynthesis in E. vivipara, and hypothesize that the evolution of C4 photosynthesis predates the WGD event. The mixed type is dominated by subgenome A and supplemented by subgenome B. Collectively, our findings not only shed light on the evolution of E. vivipara and karyotype within the Cyperaceae family, but also provide valuable insights into the transition between C3 and C4 photosynthesis, offering promising avenues for crop improvement and breeding.
Insulin and leptin acutely modulate the energy metabolism of primary hypothalamic and cortical astrocytes
Authors: Wolff Christopher , John Dorit , Winkler Ulrike , Hochmuth Luise , Hirrlinger Johannes , Köhler Susanne
Published: August 2024

Astrocytes constitute a heterogeneous cell population within the brain, contributing crucially to brain homeostasis and playing an important role in overall brain function. Their function and metabolism are not only regulated by local signals, for example, from nearby neurons, but also by long‐range signals such as hormones. Thus, two prominent hormones primarily known for regulating the energy balance of the whole organism, insulin, and leptin, have been reported to also impact astrocytes within the brain. In this study, we investigated the acute regulation of astrocytic metabolism by these hormones in cultured astrocytes prepared from the mouse cortex and hypothalamus, a pivotal region in the context of nutritional regulation. Utilizing genetically encoded, fluorescent nanosensors, the cytosolic concentrations of glucose, lactate, and ATP, along with glycolytic rate and the NADH/NAD+ redox state were measured. Under basal conditions, differences between the two populations of astrocytes were observed for glucose and lactate concentrations as well as the glycolytic rate. Additionally, astrocytic metabolism responded to insulin and leptin in both brain regions, with some unique characteristics for each cell population. Finally, both hormones influenced how cells responded to elevated extracellular levels of potassium ions, a common indicator of neuronal activity. In summary, our study provides evidence that insulin and leptin acutely regulate astrocytic metabolism within minutes. Additionally, while astrocytes from the hypothalamus and cortex share similarities in their metabolism, they also exhibit distinct properties, further underscoring the growing recognition of astrocyte heterogeneity.

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Diversity of bartonellae in mites (Acari: Mesostigmata: Macronyssidae and Spinturnicidae) of boreal forest bats: Association of host specificity of mites and habitat selection of hosts with vector potential
Authors: Sándor Attila D. , Corduneanu Alexandra , Orlova Maria , Hornok Sándor , Cabezas‐Cruz Alejandro , Foucault‐Simonin Angélique , Kulisz Joanna , Zając Zbigniew , Borzan Mihai
Published: August 2024

Research into various bacterial pathogens that can be transmitted between different animals and may have zoonotic potential has led to the discovery of different strains of Bartonella sp. in bats and their associated ectoparasites. Despite their enormous species diversity, only a few studies have focussed on the detection of bacterial pathogens in insectivorous bats of boreal forests and their associated Macronyssidae and Spinturnicidae mites. We collected and molecularly analysed mite samples from forest‐dwelling bat species distributed all along the boreal belt of the Palearctic, from Central Europe to Far East. Ectoparasitic mites were pooled for DNA extraction and DNA amplification polymerase chain reaction (PCRs) were conducted to detect the presence of various bacterial (Anaplasmataceae, Bartonella sp., Rickettsia sp., Mycoplasma sp.) and protozoal (Hepatozoon sp.) pathogens. Bartonella sp. DNA was detected in four different mite species (Macronyssidae: Steatonyssus periblepharus and Spinturnicidae: Spinturnix acuminata, Sp. myoti and Sp. mystacinus), with different prevalences of the targeted gene (gltA, 16‐23S ribosomal RNA intergenic spacer and ftsZ). Larger pools (>5 samples pooled) were more likely to harbour Bartonella sp. DNA, than smaller ones. In addition, cave‐dwelling bat hosts and host generalist mite species are more associated with Bartonella spp. presence. Spinturnicidae mites may transmit several distinct Bartonella strains, which cluster phylogenetically close to Bartonella species known to cause diseases in humans and livestock. Mites with ubiquitous presence may facilitate the long‐term maintenance (and even local recurrence) of Bartonella‐infestations inside local bat populations, thus acting as continuous reservoirs for Bartonella spp in bats.
Forest plant indicator values for moisture reflect atmospheric vapour pressure deficit rather than soil water content
Authors: Kopecký Martin , Hederová Lucia , Macek Martin , Klinerová Tereza , Wild Jan
Published: August 2024

Soil moisture shapes ecological patterns and processes, but it is difficult to continuously measure soil moisture variability across the landscape. To overcome these limitations, soil moisture is often bioindicated using community‐weighted means of the Ellenberg indicator values of vascular plant species. However, the ecology and distribution of plant species reflect soil water supply as well as atmospheric water demand. Therefore, we hypothesized that Ellenberg moisture values can also reflect atmospheric water demand expressed as a vapour pressure deficit (VPD).

To test this hypothesis, we disentangled the relationships among soil water content, atmospheric vapour pressure deficit, and Ellenberg moisture values in the understory plant communities of temperate broadleaved forests in central Europe.

Ellenberg moisture values reflected atmospheric VPD rather than soil water content consistently across local, landscape, and regional spatial scales, regardless of vegetation plot size, depth as well as method of soil moisture measurement.

Using in situ microclimate measurements, we discovered that forest plant indicator values for moisture reflect an atmospheric VPD rather than soil water content. Many ecological patterns and processes correlated with Ellenberg moisture values and previously attributed to soil water supply are thus more likely driven by atmospheric water demand.
Assessing the load capacity curve hypothesis considering the green energy transition, banking sector expansion, and import price of crude oil in the United States
Authors: Pang Xianying , Fatima Sana , Yağiş Onur , Haseeb Mohammad , Hossain Md. Emran
Published: August 2024

The existing literature consists of various studies that have addressed the interrelationship between banking expansion and carbon emissions but failed to consider supply‐side ecological issues. Keeping this in view, the research aims to assess the impact of green energy transition, banking sector expansion, and import price of crude oil on the “load capacity factor (LCF)” in the United States from 1990 to 2021. The “LCF” has emerged as a novel ecological proxy to date that includes both “biocapacity and ecological footprint.” Using the “bootstrap autoregressive distributed lag” model, the research found that the consumption of renewable energy can enhance the ecological quality of the United States. The results verified the acceptance of the “load capacity curve” hypothesis. Moreover, it demonstrates that banking development promotes environmental quality. Specifically, a 1% improvement in the banking industry leads to a 0.93% increase in the LCF in the short term, as well as a 1.28% increase in the long run. Furthermore, the increase in crude oil import prices has a positive impact on the LCF and eventually promotes environmental sustainability. To be precise, a 1% rise in the price of imported crude oil results in a 0.35% increase in the long‐term LCF level. These results were backed by the findings of several robustness tests. The study, lastly, recommends that the banking sector and government policymakers should use banking growth in promoting green energy to attain their target of zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The risks of artificial intelligence: A narrative review and ethical reflection from an Oral Medicine group
Authors: Feng Qingmei Joy , Harte Molly , Carey Barbara , Alqarni Ali , Monteiro Luis , Diniz‐Freitas Márcio , Fricain Jean‐Cristophe , Lodi Giovanni , Brailo Vlaho , Andreoletti Mattia , Albuquerque Rui
Published: August 2024

As a relatively new tool, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine and dentistry has the potential to significantly transform the healthcare sector. AI has already demonstrated efficacy in medical diagnosis across several specialties, used successfully to detect breast, lung and skin cancer. In Oral Medicine, AI may be applied in a similar fashion, used in the detection and diagnosis of oral cancers and oral potentially malignant diseases. Despite its promise as a transformative diagnostic aid, the use of AI in healthcare presents significant safety, reliability and ethical concerns. There is no formal consensus on the safe and ethical implementation of AI systems in healthcare settings, but the literature converges on several key principles of ethical AI use including transparency, justice and fairness, non‐maleficence, responsibility and privacy. This article provides a narrative review of the key ethical issues surrounding AI use in medicine, and reflects on these, providing view‐points of a bioethicist and Oral Medicine clinicians from several units.
CDK8 of the mediator kinase module connects leaf development to the establishment of correct stomata patterning by regulating the levels of the transcription factor SPEECHLESS (SPCH)
Authors: Hermida‐Carrera Carmen , Vergara Alexander , Cervela‐Cardona Luis , Jin Xu , Björklund Stefan , Strand Åsa
Published: August 2024

The components of the mediator kinase module are highly conserved across all eukaryotic lineages, and cyclin‐dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) is essential for correct cell proliferation and differentiation in diverse eukaryotic systems. We show that CDK8 couples leaf development with the establishment of correct stomata patterning for prevailing CO2 conditions. In Arabidopsis, the basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor SPEECHLESS (SPCH) controls cellular entry into the stomatal cell lineage, and CDK8 interacts with and phosphorylates SPCH, controlling SPCH protein levels and thereby also expression of the SPCH target genes encoding key regulators of cell fate and asymmetric cell divisions. The lack of the CDK8‐mediated control of SPCH results in an increased number of meristemoid and guard mother cells, and increased stomata index in the cdk8 mutants. Increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations trigger a developmental programme controlling cell entry into stomatal lineage by limiting the asymmetric divisions. In cdk8, the number of meristemoids and guard mother cells remains the same under ambient and high CO2 concentrations, as the accumulated levels of SPCH caused by the lack of CDK8 appear to override the negative regulation of increased CO2. Thus, our work provides novel mechanistic understanding of how plants alter critical leaf properties in response to increasing atmospheric CO2.
A Rare Cause of Hypotension in Routine Hemodialysis: Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency
Authors: Altunok Murat , Kızıltunç Hüsnü Serdar , Çankaya Erdem , Sevinç Can , Uyanık Abdullah
Published: August 2024

Hypotension is a common complication during hemodialysis that develops due to high ultrafiltration rate and sometimes requires intravenous fluid replacement. Intradialytic hypotension may reduce the effectiveness of dialysis and contributes to hemodialysis‐related morbidity and mortality. Adrenal insufficiency is one of the causes of hypotension in the community. Our case was diagnosed with end‐stage renal failure and was undergoing routine hemodialysis with a central venous catheter 3 days a week. Upon the patient's hypotension attacks during the dialysis sessions and hypoglycemia attacks in the follow‐ups, the morning cortisol was 6.2 μg/dL. Adrenocorticotropic hormone was 39 pg/mL, and testosterone was 0.0442 ng/mL. Adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test was performed on the patient with 250 mcg tetracosactide. The patient did not show adequate cortisol response, was detected to have partial empty sella on pituitary magnetic resonance imaging, and was diagnosed with secondary adrenal insufficiency, and then the hemodialysis hypotension improved with prednisolone treatment. We present a case of adrenal insufficiency, which is a rare cause of hypotension in patients on routine hemodialysis.
The Coloniality of Knowledge and the Autonomous Knowledge Tradition
Authors: Alatas Syed Farid
Published: August 2024

An autonomous social science tradition is one in which knowledge creation takes place amidst consciousness of the psychological and structural obstacles that mental captivity and intellectual imperialism present to students, academics, and people in general. The limitations imposed by the structure of intellectual imperialism and the ubiquity of the captive mind allow for various hegemonic orientations to dominate knowledge creation in such a way that limits originality in terms of the choice of research problems, the application of theories and concepts, and the use of methods of data collection and modes of argumentation. This article defines autonomous knowledge, and discusses the hegemonic orientations that autonomous knowledge seeks to gain autonomy from.
Going out by doing good: The effect of mandatory CSR disclosure on outward FDI of Chinese firms
Authors: Zhang Yi , Xue Wei , Liu Chun
Published: August 2024

This study examines the effect of mandatory corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure on outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) of Chinese listed firms. We address potential endogeneity concerns by employing propensity score matching (PSM) and difference‐in‐differences (DID) methods. Our analysis reveals that firms subject to mandatory CSR disclosure exhibit a significantly higher propensity to engage in OFDI and undertake a greater number of OFDI projects. This positive effect is particularly pronounced for specific sub‐samples of firms: highly polluting, non‐state owned, relatively large and those targeting developed economies for investment. Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms suggests that disclosing CSR information facilitates OFDI primarily by enhancing innovation capabilities, alleviating financial constraints and mitigating the liability of foreignness.
Extreme Drop Durability of Sintered Silver Traces Printed With Extrusion and Aerosol Jet Processes
Authors: Abusalma Hisham , Richards Hayden , Dasgupta Abhijit , Bujanda Andres , Tsang Harvey , Yu Jian
Published: August 2024

Sintered silver is a popular material for printing conductive traces in printed hybrid electronics (PHE). However, due to the novel materials and printing techniques in PHEs, reliability still needs to be adequately characterized for all types of life-cycle application conditions. This paper focuses on characterizing the reliability of printed silver traces fabricated with extrusion printing and aerosol jet printing (AJP) processes, under severe shock conditions up to 40,000 g peak acceleration, resulting in very high strain magnitudes and strain rates. This study utilizes test specimens of cantilever form factor to study the reliability of three-dimensional printed traces and substrates. Traces printed using both techniques were found to withstand repetitive drops at up to 40,000 g peak acceleration. However, extrusion-printed silver traces were found to be more reliable than their AJP counterparts, because of the extruded traces' superior adhesion to the FR4 substrate and lack of sintering shrinkage cracks. Strain gauges revealed strains in excess of 10,000 με during a 40,000 g shock event. A calibrated finite element (FE) model revealed that the strains at the trace location exceeded 15,000 με during a 40,000 g shock event.
Associations of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior With Self-Rated Health Status in Brazilian Older Adults
Authors: Olivares-Tirado Pedro , Zanga Rosendo
Published: August 2024

In a longevity society, as we live longer, adopting healthy lifestyles is essential to develop and maintain functional ability, which enables well-being in older adults. We aim to examine the associations of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors (SBs) with self-rated health (SRH) status in older Brazilian adults. We analyzed 21,701 persons aged 60 or older from the Brazilian National Health Survey. A partial proportional odds model for SRH adjusted by sociodemographic confounders was estimated. The marginal effects of PA and SB on SRH status were expressed in terms of the average-adjusted probabilities. In addition, average-adjusted probabilities for the better and worse SRH status among representative cases of Brazilian socioeconomic inequalities were calculated. The main findings of the study indicate: (a) a significant positive association exists between PA and SRH status and, conversely, a negative association exists between SB and SRH; (b) the PA effect across daily sitting time watching TV attenuated and improved the probability of declaring a worse and better SRH status, respectively; and (c) the SRH status differences associated with PA and SB represent the socioeconomic inequalities in the older Brazilian population. Beyond some methodological limitations, we conclude that increasing PA and SB in older persons is significantly associated with better and worse SRH status, respectively. In addition, the results suggest that SRH status is a consistent health inequality measurement. In societies moving on longevity transition, substantial efforts are required in individuals’ behavior across the life courses and public policies to promote healthy aging.
Effect of a Perturbation-Based Balance Training Session on Adaptive Locomotor Response in Older Adults With a History of Falls
Authors: Faria Júlia O. , Favretto Maria E.C. , Bezerra Isadora S. , Santos Thiago F. , Lemos Tenysson W. , Junqueira Eduardo B. , Santiago Paulo R.P. , Moraes Renato
Published: August 2024

Aim: To assess the adaptive response of older adults with a history of falls in a single Perturbation-Based Balance Training (PBT) session by examining the margin of stability (MoS) and the number of falls. Methods: Thirty-two older adults with a history of falls underwent a treadmill walking session lasting 20–25 min. During the PBT protocol, participants experienced 24 unexpected perturbations delivered in two ways: acceleration or deceleration of the treadmill belt, with 12 perturbations in each direction. The MoS in the anteroposterior direction was assessed for the first and last perturbations of the session, during the perturbation step (N) and the recovery step (REC), along with the number of falls during the training session. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in MoS between the first and last perturbations (acceleration and deceleration) for steps N and REC. Regarding the number of falls, a significant reduction was found when comparing the first half with the second half of the training session (p = .033). There were 13 falls in the first half and only three in the second half of the PBT session. Conclusion: Older adults with a history of falls exhibited an adaptive response with a reduction in the number of falls during a single session of PBT despite not showing changes in the MoS.
Noise robustness and metabolic load determine the principles of central dogma regulation
Authors: Lo Teresa W. , Choi H. James , Huang Dean , Wiggins Paul A.
Published: August 2024

The processes of gene expression are inherently stochastic, even for essential genes required for growth. How does the cell maximize fitness in light of noise? To answer this question, we build a mathematical model to explore the trade-off between metabolic load and growth robustness. The model provides insights for principles of central dogma regulation: Optimal protein expression levels for many genes are in vast overabundance. Essential genes are transcribed above a lower limit of one message per cell cycle. Gene expression is achieved by load balancing between transcription and translation. We present evidence that each of these regulatory principles is observed. These results reveal that robustness and metabolic load determine the global regulatory principles that govern gene expression processes, and these principles have broad implications for cellular function.
Experimental quantum Byzantine agreement on a three-user quantum network with integrated photonics
Authors: Jing Xu , Qian Cheng , Weng Chen-Xun , Li Bing-Hong , Chen Zhe , Wang Chen-Quan , Tang Jie , Gu Xiao-Wen , Kong Yue-Chan , Chen Tang-Sheng , Yin Hua-Lei , Jiang Dong , Niu Bin , Lu Liang-Liang
Published: August 2024

Quantum communication networks are crucial for both secure communication and cryptographic networked tasks. Building quantum communication networks in a scalable and cost-effective way is essential for their widespread adoption. Here, we establish a complete polarization entanglement–based fully connected network, which features an ultrabright integrated Bragg reflection waveguide quantum source, managed by an untrusted service provider, and a streamlined polarization analysis module, which requires only one single-photon detector for each user. We perform a continuously working quantum entanglement distribution and create correlated bit strings between users. Within the framework of one-time universal hashing, we provide the experimental implementation of source-independent quantum digital signatures using imperfect keys circumventing the necessity for private amplification. We further beat the 1/3 fault tolerance bound in the Byzantine agreement, achieving unconditional security without relying on sophisticated techniques. Our results offer an affordable and practical route for addressing consensus challenges within the emerging quantum network landscape.
CDCA7 is an evolutionarily conserved hemimethylated DNA sensor in eukaryotes
Authors: Wassing Isabel E. , Nishiyama Atsuya , Shikimachi Reia , Jia Qingyuan , Kikuchi Amika , Hiruta Moeri , Sugimura Keita , Hong Xin , Chiba Yoshie , Peng Junhui , Jenness Christopher , Nakanishi Makoto , Zhao Li , Arita Kyohei , Funabiki Hironori
Published: August 2024

Mutations of the SNF2 family ATPase HELLS and its activator CDCA7 cause immunodeficiency, centromeric instability, and facial anomalies syndrome, characterized by DNA hypomethylation at heterochromatin. It remains unclear why CDCA7-HELLS is the sole nucleosome remodeling complex whose deficiency abrogates the maintenance of DNA methylation. We here identify the unique zinc-finger domain of CDCA7 as an evolutionarily conserved hemimethylation-sensing zinc finger (HMZF) domain. Cryo–electron microscopy structural analysis of the CDCA7-nucleosome complex reveals that the HMZF domain can recognize hemimethylated CpG in the outward-facing DNA major groove within the nucleosome core particle, whereas UHRF1, the critical activator of the maintenance methyltransferase DNMT1, cannot. CDCA7 recruits HELLS to hemimethylated chromatin and facilitates UHRF1-mediated H3 ubiquitylation associated with replication-uncoupled maintenance DNA methylation. We propose that the CDCA7-HELLS nucleosome remodeling complex assists the maintenance of DNA methylation on chromatin by sensing hemimethylated CpG that is otherwise inaccessible to UHRF1 and DNMT1.
Hematopoietic stem cell heterogeneity and age-associated platelet bias are evolutionarily conserved
Authors: Aksöz Merve , Gafencu Grigore-Aristide , Stoilova Bilyana , Buono Mario , Zhang Ying , Turkalj Sven , Meng Yiran , Jakobsen Niels Asger , Metzner Marlen , Clark Sally-Ann , Beveridge Ryan , Thongjuea Supat , Vyas Paresh , Nerlov Claus
Published: August 2024

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) reconstitute multilineage human hematopoiesis after clinical bone marrow (BM) transplantation and are the cells of origin of some hematological malignancies. Although HSCs provide multilineage engraftment, individual murine HSCs are lineage biased and contribute unequally to blood cell lineages. Here, we performed high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing in mice after xenograft with molecularly barcoded adult human BM HSCs. We demonstrated that human individual BM HSCs are also functionally and transcriptionally lineage biased. Specifically, we identified platelet-biased and multilineage human HSCs. Quantitative comparison of transcriptomes from single HSCs from young and aged BM showed that both the proportion of platelet-biased HSCs and their level of transcriptional platelet priming increase with age. Therefore, platelet-biased HSCs and their increased prevalence and transcriptional platelet priming during aging are conserved features of mammalian evolution.
Tectonic and magmatic construction of lower crust in the Southern California Batholith
Authors: Schwartz Joshua J. , Miranda Elena A. , Klepeis Keith A. , Mora-Klepeis Gabriela , Lackey Jade Star , Robles Francine , Tibaldi Alina
Published: August 2024

We explore the growth of lower-continental crust by examining the root of the Southern California Batholith, an ~500-km-long, paleo-arc segment of the Mesozoic California arc that lies between the southern Sierra Nevada Batholith and northern Peninsular Ranges Batholith. We focus on the Cucamonga and San Antonio terranes located in the eastern San Gabriel Mountains where the deep root of the Mesozoic arc is exhumed by the Quaternary Cucamonga thrust fault. This lower- to mid-crustal cross section of the arc allows us to investigate (1) the timing and rates of Mesozoic arc construction, (2) mechanisms of sediment incorporation into the lower crust, and (3) the interplay between mantle input and crustal recycling during arc magmatic surges. We use U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology of four quartzites and one metatexite migmatite to investigate the origin of the lower-crustal Cucamonga metasedimentary sequence, and U-Pb zircon petrochronology of 26 orthogneisses to establish the timing of arc magmatism and granulite-facies metamorphism. We find that the Cucamonga metasedimentary sequence shares broad similarities to Sur Series metasedimentary rocks in the Salinia terrane, suggesting that both were deposited in a late Paleozoic to early Mesozoic forearc or intra-arc basin marginal to the Southern California Batholith. This basin was progressively underthrust beneath the arc during the Middle Jurassic to Late Cretaceous and was metamorphosed during two high-grade (>750 °C), metamorphic events at ca. 124 Ma and 89–75 Ma. These metamorphic events were associated with 100 m.y. of arc magmatism that lasted from 175 Ma to 75 Ma and culminated in a magmatic surge from ca. 90 Ma to 75 Ma. Field observations and petrochronology analyses indicate that partial melting of the underthrust Cucamonga metasedimentary rocks was triggered by the emplacement of voluminous, mid-crustal tonalites and granodiorites. Partial melting of the metasedimentary rocks played a subsidiary role relative to mantle input in driving the Late Cretaceous magmatic flare-up event.
Paediatric diffuse oesophageal leiomyomatosis with Alport syndrome
Authors: Thanachatchairattana Pornsri , Losty Paul
Published: August 2024

Diffuse oesophageal leiomyomatosis is a rare benign disease in the paediatric population. This report highlights a recent clinical case, together with a narrative review of current world literature.

An early middle childhood girl with recurrent lower respiratory tract infections for 2 years was noted to have a retrocardiac lesion on chest X-ray, later confirmed to be an oesophageal mass on CT imaging. She underwent an Ivor-Lewis oesophagogastrectomy and a Heineke-Mikulicz pyloroplasty. Pathology examination revealed type I diffuse oesophageal leiomyomatosis. Alport syndrome was later confirmed following an episode of postoperative haematuria, which was corroborated by electron microscopy examination following renal biopsy.

With an oesophageal mass lesion and Alport syndrome, oesophageal leiomyomatosis should be suspected in any patient with a clinical history of dysphagia and/or respiratory symptoms. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided tissue biopsy is valuable for diagnosis of all suspected lesions. Surgical resection is mandatory to effect cure.
Perforated appendicitis within a spigelian hernia
Authors: Whitehouse Sarah Kate , Izwan Sara , Naidoo Maseelan
Published: August 2024

A woman in her 90s presented to the emergency department with new onset pain in a long standing right spigelian hernia. She was febrile and mildly hypotensive. CT scan demonstrated a hernia containing small and large bowel with significant fat stranding and thus proceeded to operative management via an open appendicectomy and suture repair of the hernia. There are few similar cases in the literature, with the predominance being suture repair, a roughly even split between open and laparoscopic approaches.
Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome associated with bacterial urinary tract infection
Authors: Jayasekara Hasara , Wickramarathne Janitha Sampath , Liyanage Damith Sanjaya , Jayasinghe Peduru Arachchige
Published: August 2024

Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome (OMAS) is a rare acquired neurological disorder characterized by opsoclonus, focal or diffuse myoclonus, truncal instability and associated other cerebellar signs and ataxia. While predominantly affecting children, it can rarely manifest in adults and could be associated with infections, paraneoplastic syndrome, drugs or other neurological disorders. We present a case of an elderly gentleman presenting with OMAS associated with a culture-positive urinary tract infection withEscherichia coli, successfully treated with antibiotics and immunoglobulins resulting in significant recovery.
Increase in major osteoporotic fractures after therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Ye Carrie , Zhao Bo , Leslie William D , Ruiz Juan Ignacio , Zhao Hui , Abdel-Wahab Noha , Suarez-Almazor Maria E
Published: August 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can cause severe and sometimes long-standing immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Enhanced immune activation from ICI can theoretically result in osteoclast activation, bone loss and fracture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence rates of major osteoporotic fractures (MOFs) in patients with melanoma treated with ICI.

Methods

We conducted a before–after cohort study using a commercial healthcare claims dataset of adult patients with melanoma from the USA who received ICI therapy between 2011 and 2022. Incidence rates of MOF before and after ICI initiation were ascertained using International Classification of Diseases 9/10 diagnostic codes.

Results

The study cohort included 3137 patients, mean age was 68 years, of which 2010 (64%) were men. 40 (1.3%) patients had an MOF in the year before ICI initiation and 57 (1.8%) and 34 (1.8%) had an MOF in the first and second years after ICI initiation, respectively. The HR for MOF over the first year after versus the year before the first ICI dose was 1.82 (95% CI 1.24 to 2.66), and it was 1.85 (95% CI 1.12 to 2.90) over the second year. Prior fracture, older age, female sex and combination ICI therapy were associated with greater risk of MOF after ICI initiation.

Conclusion

Patients who receive ICI are at increased risk of MOF after receiving therapy. Given the plausible biological pathway, osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures may represent a novel irAE of ICI therapy.