bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of COVID-19 Effect on the Health of Families in South-West, Nigeria
Authors: Olorunfemi O , Oluwagbemi O.O , Atekoja O.E , Olajide A.O , Olu-Abiodun O.O , Adebiyi J.A , Sodimu J.O , Leslie T.A , Ojo E.A , Akpa M.O
Published: August 2022

Aim

This study was to assess the effect of the coronavirus disease and its associated lockdown on the physical, spiritual, emotional, and socio-economic health of families living in South-West, Nigeria.

Background

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic create a universal health crisis that has a major effect on our day–to-day activities and these global concerns have shifted from the diseases to the physical, emotional, spiritual, and socioeconomic effects of the situation on the people.

Method

This is a descriptive study with five hundred and thirty-six (536) respondents; a convenient sampling technique was used to select samples through online Google form.

Result

The majority of the respondent’s ages ranged between 20 and 30years (53.0%). COVID 19 pandemic affected 17.2% of the respondents’ physical health. The lockdown improved bonding among family members (74.6%), also the lockdown favourable affected 56.0% of the respondents’ emotional health. The spirituality of the respondents was negatively affected (79.9%) by the lockdown, family expenses were increased (82.6%), there was an increased in the prices of goods (92.9%), and in general COVID 19 pandemic unfavorably affected (77.2%) the respondents’ socio-economic health.

Conclusion

This study reveals that COVID-19 and the lockdown produced an adverse effect on the physical, emotional, spiritual, and socio-economic wellbeing of the families in southwest Nigeria.

Implications for nursing and health policy

nurses working in COVID-19 unit need to give total care to the affected patient; therefore, they have obligation to include physical, emotional, spiritual and mental intervention in their care. The government needs to plan and strategize properly in the method for distribution of the palliative’s, and if possible identify the vulnerable and less privileged in each state for easy distribution.
Yolk granule fusion and microtubule aster formation regulate cortical granule translocation and exocytosis in zebrafish oocytes
Authors: Shamipour Shayan , Hofmann Laura , Steccari Irene , Kardos Roland , Heisenberg Carl-Philipp
Published: August 2022

Dynamic reorganization of the cytoplasm is key to many core cellular processes, such as cell division, cell migration and cell polarization. Cytoskeletal rearrangements are thought to constitute the main drivers of cytoplasmic flows and reorganization. In contrast, remarkably little is known about how dynamic changes in size and shape of cell organelles affect large-scale cytoplasmic organization. Here, we show that within the maturing zebrafish oocyte, the surface localization of exocytosis-competent cortical granules upon germinal vesicle breakdown is achieved by the combined activities of yolk granule fusion and microtubule aster formation and translocation. We find that cortical granules are moved towards the oocyte surface through radially-outward cytoplasmic flows induced by yolk granules fusing within the oocyte center in response to GV breakdown. We further show that vesicles decorated with the small Rab GTPase Rab11, a master regulator of vesicular trafficking and exocytosis, accumulate together with cortical granules at the oocyte surface. This accumulation is achieved by Rab11-positive vesicles being transported by acentrosomal microtubule asters, the formation of which is induced by the release of CyclinB/Cdk1 upon GV breakdown, and which display a net movement towards the oocyte surface by preferentially binding to the oocyte actin cortex. We finally demonstrate that the decoration of cortical granules by Rab11 at the oocyte surface is needed for cortical granule release and subsequent chorion elevation, a process central in oocyte activation. Collectively, these findings unravel a yet unrecognized role of organelle fusion, functioning together with cytoskeletal rearrangements, in determining cytoplasmic organization during oocyte maturation.
Investigation on static and dynamic characteristics of high-speed and heavy-load tilting pad journal bearings
Authors: Yan Kanghao , Huang Dan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Multitilting-pad journal bearings (MTPJBs) used in large-scale hydraulic turbines often suffer from complex operating conditions, which greatly influence the overall performance of the rotating machine. The purpose of this study is to establish a thermal-elastic-hydrodynamic lubrication model for MTPJBs that can predict the static and dynamic characteristics of high-speed and heavy-load MTPJBs under different operating conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

A thermo-elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication model considering the turbulence effect is proposed for high-speed and heavy-load TPJBs, which is solved using the coupled finite difference method and finite element method. The model considered the turbulence effect, thermal energy diffusion, viscosity–temperature–pressure relationship and elastic deformation of the pads. The influences of the operating conditions on static and dynamic characteristics of tilting pad journal bearings were analyzed in depth.

Findings

The operating conditions have a strong effect on the static properties of the bearings. The dynamic characteristics of the TPJB were the most influenced by the shaft speed. The effects of the load direction on the dynamic properties of the TPJB were much stronger than those of the static characteristics.

Originality/value

This study used analytical methods and models to provide theoretical guidance for evaluating lubricating characteristics, assembling conditions and overall health.
The impact of context clues on online review helpfulness
Authors: Namvar Morteza , Chua Alton Y.K.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper seeks to propose and empirically validate a conceptual model on the antecedents of review helpfulness comprising three constructs, namely, valence dissimilarity, lexical dissimilarity and review order.

Design/methodology/approach

A panel dataset of customer reviews was collected from Amazon. Using deep learning and text processing techniques, 650,995 reviews on 13,612 products from 570,870 reviewers were analyzed. Using negative binomial regression, four hypotheses were tested.

Findings

The results indicate that new reviews with high valence dissimilarity and lexical dissimilarity compared to existing reviews are less helpful. However, over the sequence of reviews, the negative effect of review dissimilarity on review helpfulness can be moderated. This moderation differs for valence and lexical dissimilarity.

Research limitations/implications

This study explains review dissimilarity in the context of online review helpfulness. It draws on the elaboration likelihood model and explains how the impacts of peripheral and central cues are moderated over the sequence of reviews.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide benefits to online retailers planning to implement online reviews to improve user experience.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the importance of review dissimilarity in identifying user perception of online review helpfulness and understanding the dynamics of this perception over the sequence of reviews, which can lead to improved marketing strategies.
Want to balance my work-family life today: work-family balance practices in Pakistan
Authors: Syed Sumaiya , Memon Salman Bashir , Shah Abdul Qadir
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The qualitative study was conducted to examine work-family (W-F) balance practices in the collectivist culture of Pakistan. Keeping in view the context of Pakistan, three W-F practices, flexibility, childcare arrangement and social support, were studied by applying the theory of W-F balance.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 16 In-depth interviews from the bank operating in three different cities in Sindh, Pakistan.

Findings

Data analysis showed that providing economic benefits and short working hours can achieve W-F balance. Nevertheless, the provision of flexibility in terms of short working hours is more important than economic benefits in balancing both domains of life. Secondly, the provision of childcare arrangements helps to balance work and home life. This practice favors females more compared to males. Thirdly, supervisor and co-worker support is most important in creating W-F balance than family support.

Research limitations/implications

It is crucial to understand the W-F balance practices in developing countries; the bank should encourage policies related to flexibility, childcare arrangement and social support in Pakistan. In addition, banks should take the initiative to develop a way that facilitates the employees' social support, which should consequently help to achieve the W-F balance.

Practical implications

It is crucial to understand the W-F balance practices in developing countries; the bank should encourage policies related to flexibility, childcare arrangement and social support in Pakistan. Banks should take an initiative to develop a way that facilitates the employees' social support which should consequently help to achieve the W-F balance.

Social implications

This research has a tremendous impact on society due to current changes in South Asian countries including Pakistan constitute a socio-cultural transition that directly affects working and family life.

Originality/value

Given the importance of W-F balance in recent times, the authors identified and extended the W-F balance practices in the collectivist culture of Pakistan. This study is novel and contributes to the W-F balance literature by considering most primary W-F balance practices that employees require.
Do personal traits of the leader predict differences in leader and subordinate evaluations of leader effectiveness: a study in the banking industry in Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Habtamu Endris , Schalk René , van Engen Marloes
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether the internal locus of control, self-esteem and leadership self-efficacy can predict differences in self–other rating agreement on leader effectiveness. First, the authors predicted that the greater the internal locus of a leader the more their self-rating will be in agreement with others' rating of them (1a). Second, the authors proposed that the greater the self-esteem of a leader the more their self-rating will be in discrepancy with others' rating (1b). Third, the authors hypothesized that the greater the self-efficacy of a leader the more their self-rating will be in agreement with others' rating (1c).

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypotheses, multisource data were collected from 128 banking leaders (who responded about different aspects of leadership self-efficacy, internal locus of control, self-esteem and leadership effectiveness) and 344 subordinates (who rated their leaders' effectiveness in performing leadership tasks).Multivariate regression was performed by jointly regressing both leaders' self-ratings and subordinates' ratings as a dependent variable on internal locus of control, self-esteem and leadership self-efficacy as predictor variables.

Findings

Self-esteem of a leader the more their self-rating will be in discrepancy with others' ratings.

Originality/value

The study tried to investigate the leader-subordinate dis(agreement) on leaders’ effectiveness taking banking leaders in the Ethiopian Context. The finding of the results is crucial and important for leadership development programs.
Cooperative values and the development of the credit union movement in Australia
Authors: Unda Luisa
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Credit unions offer an alternative to traditional banking given their distinctive ownership structure and their goal of maximising members’ benefits. Motivated by the increased expectations regarding more ethical behaviour in the financial industry, this paper aims to provide a better understanding of the relevant features and values that facilitated the emergence of the credit union movement in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Using social movement theory, this study analyses 23 interviews conducted in the early 1990s with the supporters of the credit union movement in Australia, in which the characteristics and values of the credit union movement are identified.

Findings

Findings demonstrate that the credit union ethos is rooted in family and religious influences, and that these organisations were keen on promoting their distinctiveness on “fairness” and “caring for their members”. Credit unions, however, have rarely tackled the movement’s most neglected value “cooperation between cooperatives”.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the discussion of ethics in business history as it elaborates on how values and ethos crafted the identity and ensured the survival of the credit union movement in Australia.
Production and characterization of gum exudate from apricot tree: modeling the rheology of the obtained extract
Authors: Karataş Mukaddes , Aydoğmuş Ercan , Arslanoğlu Hasan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of shear rate, concentration (4–20 kg/m3) and temperature (20°C–60 °C) on the apparent viscosity of apricot gum solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Apparent viscosity has been measured using a rotational viscometer.

Findings

It has been observed that the shear stress and apparent viscosity values increase at high concentrations in the prepared apricot gum solutions. However, it is understood that the higher the temperature in the operation conditions, the lower the apparent viscosity results. Power-law is found the best-fitting model to illustrate the changes in temperature and concentration. According to the consistency coefficient and flow behavior indices, the apricot gum displayed shear-thinning behavior (pseudoplastic). The apricot gum is a polysaccharide with amino and uronic acids, according to Fouirer Transform Infrared Spektrofotometre spectra.

Practical implications

The results suggest that power-law model can be used to estimate the viscosity of apricot gum solutions at different temperatures and concentrations for applications for which flow behavior should be taken into account.

Originality/value

Exudate gums have good rheological properties and, therefore, are widely used in the food industry. Apricot gum is a biodegradable and abundant polysaccharide that enhances viscosity, stabilizes suspension or emulsion and improves the flow properties of foods. Different rheological models are used to investigate rheological properties. However, those models are time-independent to fit the experimental data.
Measuring learning outcomes: bridging accreditation requirements and LMS functionalities
Authors: El Marsafawy Hesham , Roy Rumpa , Ali Fahema
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify the gap between the requirements of the accreditation bodies and the widely used learning management systems (LMSs) in assessing the intended learning outcomes (ILOs). In addition, this study aims to introduce a framework, along with the evaluation of the functionality of the LMS, for measuring the ILO.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative method was deployed to examine the gap between the requirements of the accreditation standards and the LMS functionalities. The researchers collaborated to design a mechanism, develop a system architecture to measure the ILO in alignment with the accreditation standards and guide the development of the Moodle plugin. The appropriateness and effectiveness of the plugin were evaluated within the scope of assessment mapping and design. Focus group interviews were conducted to collect feedback from the instructors and program leaders regarding its implementation.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that there is no standardized mechanism to measure course and program ILO objectively, using the existing LMS. The implementation of the plugin shows the appropriateness and effectiveness of the system in generating ILO achievement reports, which was confirmed by the users.

Originality/value

This study proposed a framework and developed a system architecture for the objective measurement of the ILO through direct assessment. The plugin was tested to generate consistent reports during the measurement of course and program ILO. The plugin has been implemented across Gulf University’s program courses, ensuring appropriate reporting and continuous improvement.
A narrative review of vitamin K forms in cheese and their potential role in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Zhou Sitong , Mehta Bhavbhuti M , Feeney Emma L
Published: August 2022

Vitamin K collectively describes fat‐soluble vitamins containing 2‐methyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone, including two naturally‐occurring forms: phylloquinone (K1) and a range of menaquinones, MK4‐M13 (K2). Leafy vegetables are the main dietary source of K1, whereas K2 is mainly bacterially synthesised and found in fermented foods, including dairy foods, and some animal sources. Studies suggest that vitamin K may be important for cardiovascular health, due to its role in inhibiting vascular calcification, but food source data, particularly for K2 forms, is lacking. This information could help to clarify recent associations between cheese consumption and reduced CVD risk and would be of use in future epidemiological studies.
Assessment of the ED‐XRF technique to quantify mineral elements in nonlyophilised milk and cheese
Authors: Visentin Elena , Niero Giovanni , Cassandro Martino , Penasa Mauro , De Marchi Massimo
Published: August 2022

The interest in analytical methods that accurately measure or predict the elemental profile of dairy foods has been steadily rising. The purpose of this study was to assess the robustness of the energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (ED‐XRF) technique for the prediction of mineral elements in milk and cheese, avoiding any sample preparation steps. Results highlighted relatively low accuracy of the ED‐XRF technique for the quantification of milk mineral elements, with coefficients of determination in validation () from 0.03 (magnesium) to 0.39 (phosphorus). Greater accuracies were obtained for the quantification of cheese minerals, with from 0.26 (sodium) to 0.69 (calcium).
‘No objection to go abroad’: Servants' Travel Advertisements in The Morning Post, London, 1815
Authors: Dunn Sophie
Published: August 2022

This article focuses on newspaper advertisements posted by, or on behalf of, servants who were offering their services to travellers to the European continent at the end of the long eighteenth century. Advertising their travel‐related skills, such as languages or knowledge of the roads, travelling servants positioned themselves as ideal travel companions who anticipated their employers' needs and used their skills as a self‐marketing strategy to stand out in a competitive job market. These advertisements give us an idea how servants imagined worthwhile employment, what they desired or objected to, and where they were willing to compromise.
Accurate identification of taxon‐specific molecular markers in plants based on DNA signature sequence
Authors: Hua Zhongyi , Jiang Chao , Song Shuhui , Tian Dongmei , Chen Ziyuan , Jin Yan , Zhao Yuyang , Zhou Junhui , Zhang Zhang , Huang Luqi , Yuan Yuan
Published: August 2022

Accurate identification of plants remains a significant challenge for taxonomists and is the basis for plant diversity conservation. Although DNA barcoding methods are commonly used for plant identification, these are limited by the low amplification success and low discriminative power of selected genomic regions. In this study, we developed a k‐mer–based approach, the DNA signature sequence (DSS), to accurately identify plant taxon‐specific markers, especially at the species level. DSS is a constant‐length nucleotide sequence capable of identifying a taxon and distinguishing it from other taxa. In this study, we performed the first large‐scale study of DSS markers in plants. DSS candidates of 3899 angiosperm plant species were calculated based on a chloroplast data set with 4356 assemblies. Using Sanger sequencing of PCR amplicons and high‐throughput sequencing, DSSs were validated in four and 165 species, respectively. Based on this, the universality of the DSSs was over 79.38%. Several indicators influencing DSS marker identification and detection have also been evaluated, and common criteria for DSS application in plant identification have been proposed.
Extragenital lichen sclerosus: A comprehensive review
Authors: Arif Tasleem , Fatima Rafiya , Sami Marwa
Published: August 2022

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease of unknown aetiology. About 85% of total cases of LS are genital cases, while extragenital form is seen in only 15–20% of cases. Extragenital LS (EGLS) can occur simultaneously with genital form; however, in 6% of the cases, only extragenital form has been described. Genetic, autoimmune, infectious, environmental and hormonal factors are implicated in its aetiology. Extragenital LS presents as asymptomatic white opalescent papules, which cluster in plaques and slowly progress over time resulting in parchment‐like skin usually involving upper trunk, neck and shoulders. Lesions are frequently accompanied by purpura/haemorrhagic spots. The relationship with morphoea has been a topic of debate. Association with several autoimmune diseases has been observed. Diagnosis is usually based on clinical and dermoscopic examination and further supported by histopathological findings. LS needs to be differentiated from several other dermatological conditions such as discoid lupus erythematosus, vitiligo, mycosis fungoides (hypopigmented variant), lichen planus, graft‐versus‐host disease and morphoea depending upon the stage of the disease. Generally, extragenital LS is believed to lack carcinogenic potential. However, case reports with possible malignant transformation have been described. In this article, the authors have described a concise review of the extragenital form of LS.
Biologics and airway remodeling in severe asthma
Authors: Varricchi Gilda , Ferri Sebastian , Pepys Jack , Poto Remo , Spadaro Giuseppe , Nappi Emanuele , Paoletti Giovanni , Virchow Johann Christian , Heffler Enrico , Canonica Walter G.
Published: August 2022

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease resulting in airflow obstruction, which in part can become irreversible to conventional therapies, defining the concept of airway remodeling. The introduction of biologics in severe asthma has led in some patients to the complete normalization of previously considered irreversible airflow obstruction. This highlights the need to distinguish a “fixed” airflow obstruction due to structural changes unresponsive to current therapies, from a “reversible” one as demonstrated by lung function normalization during biological therapies not previously obtained even with high‐dose systemic glucocorticoids. The mechanisms by which exposure to environmental factors initiates the inflammatory responses that trigger airway remodeling are still incompletely understood. Alarmins represent epithelial‐derived cytokines that initiate immunologic events leading to inflammatory airway remodeling. Biological therapies can improve airflow obstruction by addressing these airway inflammatory changes. In addition, biologics might prevent and possibly even revert “fixed” remodeling due to structural changes. Hence, it appears clinically important to separate the therapeutic effects (early and late) of biologics as a new paradigm to evaluate the effects of these drugs and future treatments on airway remodeling in severe asthma.
‘I'm not perfect’: Navigating screen time among parents of young children during COVID‐19
Authors: Findley Erin , LaBrenz Catherine A. , Childress Saltanat , Vásquez‐Schut Gladis , Bowman Katrina
Published: August 2022

Background

The use of screen time for young children has been hotly debated among experts. This study explored the utilization of screen time among mothers with young children during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to understand maternal motivation for utilizing screen time and how mothers have engaged in screen time since the beginning of the pandemic.

Method

This paper uses a sample of n = 25 mothers who participated in an in‐depth interview about parenting during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The team utilized a thematic analysis approach to qualitatively code the transcripts. All analyses were conducted in Dedoose 8.3, and all transcripts were coded by three independent researchers to enhance rigour.

Results

Five main themes emerged from the interviews: (1) harbouring screen guilt versus letting it go, (2) managing full‐time work and full‐time parenting, (3) prioritizing mental sanity, (4) socially distant supports demand screen time and (5) screens can have positive uses, too.

Conclusion

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, mothers have resorted to screen time use to cope with increased stress and challenges. However, mothers have also found positive uses for screen time, such as connection with extended family members, peer interaction and educational activities. Findings highlight the need to differentiate screen time use by quality and to update formal screen time guidelines considering changing roles of technology.
Parental history of positive development and child behavior in next generation offspring: A two‐cohort prospective intergenerational study
Authors: Letcher Primrose , Greenwood Christopher J. , McAnally Helena , Belsky Jay , Macdonald Jacqui A. , Spry Elizabeth A. , Thomson Kimberly C. , O'Connor Meredith , Sligo Judith , Youssef George , McIntosh Jennifer E. , Iosua Ella , Hutchinson Delyse , Cleary Joyce , Sanson Ann V. , Patton George C. , Hancox Robert J. , Olsson Craig A.
Published: August 2022

This study examined whether positive development (PD) in adolescence and young adulthood predicts offspring behavior in two Australasian intergenerational cohorts. The Australian Temperament Project Generation 3 Study assessed PD at age 19–28 (years 2002–2010) and behavior in 1165 infants (12–18 months; 608 girls) of 694 Australian‐born parents (age 29–35; 2012–2019; 399 mothers). The Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Parenting Study assessed PD at age 15–18 (years 1987–1991) and behavior in 695 preschoolers (3–5 years; 349 girls) and their New Zealand born parents (age 21–46; 1994–2018; 363 mothers; 89% European ethnicity). In both cohorts, PD before parenthood predicted more positive offspring behavior (βrange = .11–.16) and fewer behavior problems (βrange = −.09 to −.11). Promoting strengths may secure a healthy start to life.
Engaging White parents to address their White children's racial biases in the Black‐White context
Authors: Scott Katharine E. , Ash Tory L. , Immel Bailey , Liebeck MaKayla A. , Devine Patricia G. , Shutts Kristin
Published: August 2022

Multiple studies (n = 1065 parents, 625 females, 437 males, 3 nonbinary, 99.06% White; n = 80, 5 to 7‐year‐old children, 35 girls, 45 boys, 87.50% White; data collection September 2017–January 2021) investigated White U.S. parents' thinking about White children's Black‐White racial biases. In Studies 1–3, parents reported that their own and other children would not express racial biases. When predicting children's social preferences for Black and White children (Study 2), parents underestimated their own and other children's racial biases. Reading an article about the nature, prevalence, and consequences of White children's racial biases (Study 3) increased parents' awareness of, concern about, and motivation to address children's biases (relative to a control condition). The findings have implications for engaging White parents to address their children's racial biases.
House Biermann in Durban: A Case of “Regional Vernacular” in the Modern Architectural Heritage of South Africa
Authors: Bodei Silvia , Harber Rodney
Published: August 2022

In September 2020, the South African Institute of Architects KwaZulu‐Natal Regional Heritage Committee launched an urgent national and international appeal to support the preservation of an important architectural artifact: the house of Barrie Biermann in Durban. The building, considered the most significant project carried out by the South African architect and academic, is today in danger of being demolished. Built in 1962 with great economy in the residential district of Westridge, it represents Biermann's particular vision of modern architecture and was a compelling experiment in domestic space. The present article reconstructs, through a selection of archival materials and pictures from the Technical Reference Library (University of KwaZulu‐Natal, Durban), the context and design ideas of the project and some construction features. These aspects, in particular related to Biermann's architectural vision and references, highlight the vital need to protect this heritage of modern architecture in the context of South Africa.
Decolonizing Modern Heritage of Africa: Afro‐Brazilian and Neo‐Moorish Liberation Architectures
Authors: Kelouaze Rim
Published: August 2022

This article examines modern architectures in Africa that express ideas of liberation. It aims to rethink narratives and re‐evaluate perceptions through a reading of liberation architectures that are born out of popular resistance movements, revealing of voices for liberation, and representing cultural responses to political pressure from oppressed populations. Two cases are studied. The first concerns pre‐liberation architectures in early 19th century Algeria that emerged when popular resistance provoked the colonial administration to facilitate the creation of the neo‐Moorish style as a way of allowing the autochthonous to identify themselves within the city through a new architecture inspired by pre‐colonial architecture. The second case study is about post‐liberation architectures using Afro‐Brazilian architecture initiated by returned formerly enslaved people (Lagos/Benin), reflecting their freedom to reflect on their shifting identities and complex associations between their lives lived in both lands across the Atlantic Ocean. Both examples challenge notions of authenticity and recognition. Neo‐Moorish is perceived as a fake mix of two dissociated architectures; Afro‐Brazilian is regarded as imported and less authentic than local architectures. Yet the authenticity of both architectures lies in the political and cultural context and motivation underlying their creation: Afro‐Brazilians who returned to where they were captured and enslaved to create masterpieces, and Algerians who forced the colonizer to make a unique cultural compromise to appease the population, created two forms of liberation architecture of undeniable authenticity.
Global beta diversity patterns of microbial communities in the surface and deep ocean
Authors: Villarino Ernesto , Watson James R. , Chust Guillem , Woodill A. John , Klempay Benjamin , Jonsson Bror , Gasol Josep M. , Logares Ramiro , Massana Ramon , Giner Caterina R. , Salazar Guillem , Alvarez‐Salgado X. Anton , Catala Teresa S. , Duarte Carlos M. , Agusti Susana , Mauro Francisco , Irigoien Xabier , Barton Andrew D.
Published: August 2022

Aim

Dispersal and environmental gradients shape marine microbial communities, yet the relative importance of these factors across taxa with distinct sizes and dispersal capacity in different ocean layers is unknown. Here, we report a comparative analysis of surface and deep ocean microbial beta diversity and examine how these patterns are tied to oceanic distance and environmental gradients.

Location

Tropical and subtropical oceans (30°N–40°S).

Time period

2010–2011.

Major taxa studied

Prokaryotes and picoeukaryotes (eukaryotes between 0.2 and 3 μm).

Methods

Beta diversity was calculated from metabarcoding data on prokaryotic and picoeukaryotic microbes collected during the Malaspina expedition across the tropical and subtropical oceans. Mantel correlations were used to determine the relative contribution of environment and oceanic distance driving community beta diversity.

Results

Mean community similarity across all sites for prokaryotes was 38.9% in the surface and 51.4% in the deep ocean, compared to mean similarity of 25.8 and 12.1% in the surface and deep ocean, respectively, for picoeukaryotes. Higher dispersal rates and smaller body sizes of prokaryotes relative to picoeukaryotes likely contributed to the significantly higher community similarity for prokaryotes compared with picoeukaryotes. The ecological mechanisms determining the biogeography of microbes varied across depth. In the surface ocean, the environmental differences in space were a more important factor driving microbial distribution compared with the oceanic distance, defined as the shortest path between two sites avoiding land. In the deep ocean, picoeukaryote communities were slightly more structured by the oceanic distance, while prokaryotes were shaped by the combined action of oceanic distance and environmental filtering.

Main conclusions

Horizontal gradients in microbial community assembly differed across ocean depths, as did mechanisms shaping them. In the deep ocean, the oceanic distance and environment played significant roles driving microbial spatial distribution, while in the surface the influence of the environment was stronger than oceanic distance.
Recent changes in colony sizes of two seabird species in Scotland are not strongly influenced by Birds Directive status of the colony
Authors: Furness Robert W.
Published: August 2022

Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under the EU Birds Directive have improved the conservation status of many terrestrial bird species in Europe, but protecting breeding sites may be less effective for highly mobile birds such as seabirds. Colony census data for Great Skuas Stercorarius skua and Great Black‐backed Gulls Larus marinus in Scotland show that breeding numbers have fared no better in sites where these species are SPA breeding features and, counter‐intuitively, the evidence indicates better performance in non‐SPA colonies, most likely because non‐SPA colonies are generally smaller so are less subject to density‐dependent competition. The main drivers of population change are widespread rather than colony‐based in these two species with recent reductions in carrying capacity. Many other seabird species are vulnerable to similar widespread pressures so seabird conservation strategy needs to focus on mitigating these pressures, as designation of seabird breeding sites as SPAs is not enough to ensure effective seabird conservation.
T‐cell clonality testing for the diagnosis of T‐cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia: Are we identifying pathology or incidental clones?
Authors: Chin‐Yee Benjamin , Suthakaran Abitha , Hedley Benjamin D. , Howlett Christopher , Stuart Alan , Sadikovic Bekim , Chin‐Yee Ian H. , Hsia Cyrus C.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

T‐cell clonality testing by T‐cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement is key to the diagnosis of T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders such as T‐cell large granular lymphocytic (T‐LGL) leukemia. Benign clonal T‐cell expansions, however, are commonly found in patients without identifiable disease, a condition referred to as T‐cell clones of uncertain significance (T‐CUS). In practice, T‐cell clonality testing is performed for a range of reasons and results are often challenging to interpret given the overlap between benign and malignant clonal T‐cell proliferations and uncertainties in the management of T‐CUS.

Methods

We conducted a 5‐year retrospective cohort study of 211 consecutive patients who underwent PCR‐based T‐cell clonality testing for suspected T‐LGL leukemia at our institution to characterize the use of T‐cell clonality testing and its impact on patient management.

Results

Overall, 46.4% (n = 98) of individuals tested had a clonal T‐cell population identified. Patients with a monoclonal T‐cell population were more likely to be older, have rheumatoid arthritis and have higher lymphocyte counts compared to patients with polyclonal populations. The majority of patients eventually diagnosed and treated for T‐LGL leukemia had rheumatoid arthritis and lower neutrophil counts compared to untreated patients with monoclonal T‐cell populations. A diagnosis of T‐LGL leukemia was made in only a minority of patients (n = 48, 22.7%), and only a small proportion were treated (n = 17, 8.1%).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that T‐cell clonality testing most commonly identifies incidental T‐cell clones with only a minority of patients receiving a diagnosis of T‐LGL leukemia and fewer requiring active treatment. These finding indicate an opportunity to improve utilization of T‐cell clonality testing in clinical practice to better target patients where the results of testing would impact clinical management.
The 2022 Lady Estelle Wolfson lectureship on neurofilaments
Authors: Petzold Axel
Published: August 2022

Neurofilament proteins (Nf) have been validated and established as a reliable body fluid biomarker for neurodegenerative pathology. This review covers seven Nf isoforms, Nf light (NfL), two splicing variants of Nf medium (NfM), two splicing variants of Nf heavy (NfH), ‐internexin (INA) and peripherin (PRPH). The genetic and epigenetic aspects of Nf are discussed as relevant for neurodegenerative diseases and oncology. The comprehensive list of mutations for all Nf isoforms covers Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Charcot–Marie Tooth disease, Spinal muscular atrophy, Parkinson Disease and Lewy Body Dementia. Next, emphasis is given to the expanding field of post‐translational modifications (PTM) of the Nf amino acid residues. Protein structural aspects are reviewed alongside PTMs causing neurodegenerative pathology and human autoimmunity. Molecular visualisations of NF PTMs, assembly and stoichiometry make use of Alphafold2 modelling. The implications for Nf function on the cellular level and axonal transport are discussed. Neurofilament aggregate formation and proteolytic breakdown are reviewed as relevant for biomarker tests and disease. Likewise, Nf stoichiometry is reviewed with regard to in vitro experiments and as a compensatory mechanism in neurodegeneration. The review of Nf across a spectrum of 87 diseases from all parts of medicine is followed by a critical appraisal of 33 meta‐analyses on Nf body fluid levels. The review concludes with considerations for clinical trial design and an outlook for future research.

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Phenotyping strategies for Elsinöe ampelina symptoms in grapevine (Vitis spp.)
Authors: Modesto Lenon Romano , Welter Leocir José , Steiner Daniel Ricardo Mass , Stefen Diogo , Dias Andressa Hilha , Dalbo Marco Antonio , Nodari Rubens Onofre , da Silva Aparecido Lima
Published: August 2022

Grapevine anthracnose, caused by Elsinöe ampelina, is a fungal disease with no mapped resistance loci. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate different traits used to phenotype grapevine anthracnose looking for correlated traits and reproducibility during evaluations. Phenotyping was conducted with F1 siblings segregating for resistance to grapevine anthracnose. The progenies were inoculated with Elsinoë ampelina. Leaves, canes and shoots were phenotyped three times. Real severity and number of anthracnose spots were determined from digital photographs. Complementary, the number of spots was estimated using a scale from 0 to 9 and the severity using standard area diagram (SAD) developed for leaves and shoots. The results revealed positive correlation between real and estimated number of anthracnose spots, and the real and estimated severity. However, the number of anthracnose spots did not correlate with severity. The real data from severity and number of spots presented higher variation than the estimated data based on the SAD and scale, respectively. The evaluation strategy based on number of anthracnose spots showed reproducibility in the three independent bioassays, being the most accurate phenotyping strategy for grapevine anthracnose symptoms.
Two novel variants in a Bardet‐Biedl syndrome type 5 patient with severe renal phenotype
Authors: Shao Yingfei , An Ming , Shi Xiaomeng , Shao Leping
Published: August 2022

Bardet‐Biedl syndrome type 5 (BBS5) has never been reported in Chinese populations. The aim of this study is to report the first BBS5 case in China, explore the phenotype and genotype correlation. The case was male, Han nationality, born with polydactyly and gained weight after birth, accompanied by polydipsia, polyuria and nocturia. He was found to have low vision at the age of 7 years, and having insufficient renal function at the age of 20 years. After hospitalization, he was found to have suffered from atrophy of the whole layer of macular retina, and end stage of kidney disease, presenting with shrinking and cyst‐like changes of bilateral kidneys. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed among the proband and his parents (Trios), further validated using Sanger sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Two novel compound heterozygous variants of BBS5 gene [a missense variant NC_000002.12, NM_152384.3:c.1A>G(p.Met1?) & a large deletion c.(?_‐60)_(386 + 1_387‐1)del] were detected. BBS is rare, whereas BBS5 is rarer. Herein, we reported a Chinese BBS5 patient with severe renal phenotype and identified two novel BBS5 variants.
Oral microbiome and serological analyses on association of Alzheimer's disease and periodontitis
Authors: Fu Kuan‐Lun , Chiu Ming‐Jang , Wara‐aswapati Nawarat , Yang Cheng‐Ning , Chang Li‐Chun , Guo Yue Leon , Ni Yen‐Hsuan , Chen Yi‐Wen
Published: August 2022

Objective

To investigate the association between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and periodontitis in the aspects of periodontal status, serological markers, and oral microbiome.

Materials and Methods

Twenty AD and 20 healthy subjects were enrolled in this age‐ and gender‐matched case–control study. Clinical periodontal parameters and serum biomarkers, including amyloid β42 (Aβ42), Tau, phosphorylated Tau (pTau), triglyceride, pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and anti‐Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS) antibody were examined. The saliva samples were analyzed for oral microbiome composition.

Results

Alzheimer's disease patients with Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) ≥1 exhibited significantly more clinical attachment loss (CAL) than those with lower CDR. The levels of serum Tau protein, hsCRP and anti‐P. gingivalis LPS antibody were markedly elevated in the AD group compared with the control group. Serum pTau protein level was positively correlated with anti‐P. gingivalis LPS antibody titer. Moreover, the increased abundances of Capnocytophaga sp ora clone DZ074, Eubacterium infirmum, Prevotella buccae, and Selenomonas artemidis were detected in the AD group. Interestingly, serum levels of Aβ42, pTau, and anti‐P. gingivalis LPS antibody were strongly related to the gene upregulation in human pathogen septicemia.

Conclusions

Our study suggested the association of periodontal infection and oral microbiome with AD. Further large‐scale studies with longitudinal follow‐up are warranted.
Genome‐wide prediction of activating regulatory elements in rice by combining STARR‐seq with FACS
Authors: Tian Wei , Huang Xi , Ouyang Xinhao
Published: August 2022

Self‐transcribing active regulatory region sequencing (STARR‐seq) is widely used to identify enhancers at the whole‐genome level. However, whether STARR‐seq works as efficiently in plants as in animal systems remains unclear. Here, we determined that the traditional STARR‐seq method can be directly applied to rice (Oryza sativa) protoplasts to identify enhancers, though with limited efficiency. Intriguingly, we identified not only enhancers but also constitutive promoters with this technique. To increase the performance of STARR‐seq in plants, we optimized two procedures. We coupled fluorescence activating cell sorting (FACS) with STARR‐seq to alleviate the effect of background noise, and we minimized PCR cycles and retained duplicates during prediction, which significantly increased the positive rate for activating regulatory elements (AREs). Using this method, we determined that AREs are associated with AT‐rich regions and are enriched for a motif that the AP2/ERF family can recognize. Based on GC content preferences, AREs are clustered into two groups corresponding to promoters and enhancers. Either AT‐ or GC‐rich regions within AREs could boost transcription. Additionally, disruption of AREs resulted in abnormal expression of both proximal and distal genes, which suggests that STARR‐seq‐revealed elements function as enhancers in vivo. In summary, our work provides a promising method to identify AREs in plants.
Dynamics of an American countermovement: Blue Lives Matter
Authors: Keyes Vance D. , Keyes Latocia
Published: August 2022

The social movement‐countermovement relationship is most often one of competition. The subject of police reform has become more complex after calls for greater restrictive police policies and the emergence of Blue Lives Matter. This study demonstrates how Blue Lives Matter acts as a countermovement to police reform, frame it in a historical context, explain why it appeals to sympathizers, and illustrate how it interacts with opposing groups and individuals. This study also assesses how Blue Lives Matter operates in direct opposition to Black Lives Matter and efforts for greater police accountability. The central theme of this literature addresses how the Blue Lives Matter Movement addresses competition, criticisms, and attitudes of Blue Lives Matter adherents and detractors in local and national contexts. This study questions if reconciliation between the stated objectives and tactics of the countermovement is possible without a change in police behavior and law enforcement practices. Conflict theories identify social constructionism as a process in social and countermovements.
DAMPS and complement activation in platelet concentrates that induce adverse reactions in patients
Authors: de Wit Yasmin E. S. , Hamzeh‐Cognasse Hind , Cognasse Fabrice , ten Brinke Anja , Zeerleder Sacha S.
Published: August 2022

Background

Patients with severe thrombocytopenia due to bone marrow failure and after chemotherapy are still treated with platelet transfusions. Platelet concentrates (PC) are associated with a high incidence of adverse reactions (AR). Platelet‐derived damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPS) and complement were proposed to play a role in the pathology of AR.

Study Design and Methods

Single donor apheresis platelet concentrates (SDA PCs) were produced in a regional setting of the French Blood Establishment. After transfusion samples were collected from PC and possible AR in patients were recorded. Platelet activation markers, High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and complement activation products (CAP) were measured. The correlation between platelet activation, and HMGB1 and complement activation was analyzed.

Results

A total of 56 PC were included in the study. 30 PC induced no AR, and 26 induced AR (Febrile non‐hemolytic transfusion reaction n = 16; Atypical Allergic Transfusion Reactions n = 11; hemodynamic instability n = 5) in the patients. The levels of P‐selectin, sCD40L, HMGB1, C3b/c, and C4b/c were all significantly increased in PC that induced AR following transfusion in patients.

Additionally, HMGB1, C3b/c, and C4b/c were positively correlated with P‐selectin and sCD40L.

Conclusion

In this study, we observed an association between HMGB1 and CAP and the incidence of AR. Furthermore, we demonstrated that both HMGB1 and complement activation were correlated to platelet activation.