bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circ_0011292 knockdown mitigates progression and drug resistance in PTX‐resistant non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells by regulating miR‐433‐3p/CHEK1 axis
Authors: Jin Ming , Zhang Fengping , Li Qiubo , Xu Ruiqi , Liu Ying , Zhang Yong
Published: March 2022

Background

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common malignant tumors on earth. Circular RNAs have been disclosed to be vital regulators in the chemoresistance and development of diverse cancers, including NSCLC. Here, we attempted to explore the function of circ_0011292 in paclitaxel (PTX)‐resistant NSCLC cells.

Methods

Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction or western blot was performed to detect the expression of circ_0011292, microRNA‐433‐3p (miR‐433‐3p), and checkpoint kinase 1 (CHEK1). Ribonuclease R (RNase R) assay was performed to assess the stability of circ_0011292. Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay was conducted to evaluate the half maximal inhibitory concentration of PTX and cell viability. Cell proliferation was monitored by Edu incorporation and colony formation assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Transwell assay was implemented to assess cell migration and invasion. Western blot assay was utilized to determine the protein levels. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was carried out to verify the targeted interaction between miR‐433‐3p and circ_0011292 or CHEK1. Xenograft tumor model was constructed for determining the effect of circ_0011292 in NSCLC growth in vivo.

Results

Circ_0011292 was upregulated in PTX‐resistant NSCLC tissues and cells. Circ_0011292 or CHEK1 knockdown enhanced PTX sensitivity and cell apoptosis, and repressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in PTX‐resistant NSCLC cells. Mechanistically, circ_0011292 was a sponge of miR‐433‐3p and miR‐433‐3p directly targeted CHEK1. Meanwhile, silencing miR‐433‐3p or overexpressing CHEK1 respectively abrogated the impacts of circ_0011292 deletion or miR‐433‐3p introduction on PTX resistance and cell progression in PTX‐resistant NSCLC cells in vitro. Moreover, circ_0011292 could positively modulate CHEK1 expression through sponging miR‐433‐3p. In addition, circ_0011292 knockdown retarded tumor growth of NSCLC in vivo.

Conclusion

Circ_0011292 could accelerate PTX resistance and cell malignant progression of NSCLC cells partially through the regulation of circ_0011292/miR‐433‐3p/CHEK1 axis.
Rare ashy dermatosis‐like hyperpigmentation associated with osimertinib
Authors: Funai Kazuhito
Published: March 2022

Osimertinib, a third‐generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), is the most reliable EGFR‐TKI and is widely used as the first‐line treatment for EGFR mutation‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer. Pigmentary changes caused by EGFR‐TKIs are unusual, and to the best of my knowledge, hyperpigmentation with osimertinib has rarely been reported as a skin‐related adverse event. Here, I report a case of osimertinib‐associated ashy dermatosis‐like hyperpigmentation on imaging. Although reducing the dose of osimertinib to 40 mg did not improve pigmentation, osimertinib use was continued due to its clinical and radiological benefit, which persisted for a long time.
Glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor contributes to alcoholic‐induced liver injury by regulating the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Liu Xuling , Yang Guangyue , Sun Tiantian , Tao Le , Shen Dongxiao , Zhang Wei , Zhang Jie , Xue Dongying , Chen Bei , Wu Liu , Liu Cheng , Ma Wenting
Published: March 2022

Background

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. The pathogenesis of ALD is not completely understood. Although accumulating evidence suggests an important role of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in several diseases, there are no data concerning its role in ALD. This study compared patients with ALD with control subjects and used a mouse model and a cell culture model to investigate the function of GDNF in ALD and its mechanism of action in hepatocyte injury.

Methods

Serum levels of GDNF were measured in 25 patients with ALD and 25 healthy control subjects. A 4‐week Lieber–DeCarli ethanol (EtOH) liquid diet combined with the Gao–Binge model was used in the mouse study. Mouse primary hepatocytes and Huh‐7 cells were used for cell experiments. The parameters of liver injury, inflammatory cytokines, and lipid metabolism were measured.

Results

Patients with alcoholic hepatitis had higher serum GDNF than control subjects. Expression of GDNF mRNA and protein was markedly increased in mice in the chronic‐plus‐binge ALD mouse model. The level of GDNF mRNA was upregulated in primary hepatic stellate cells isolated from ethanol‐fed mouse liver. Ethanol induced GDNF expression in LX2 cells. The levels of inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1β, and monocyte chemotactic protein 1) were significantly increased after GDNF stimulation in primary hepatocytes and Huh‐7 cells. After GDNF stimulation, levels of both p‐AKT and p‐NF‐κB were significantly increased in primary hepatocytes and Huh‐7 cells. The NF‐κB activity induced by GDNF was significantly decreased by an NF‐κB inhibitor, which limited hepatocyte injury and inflammation.

Conclusions

The concentration of GDNF is increased in the circulation of ALD patients. GDNF promotes alcohol‐induced liver injury and inflammation via the activation of NF‐κB, which mediates hepatocyte injury and inflammatory cytokine expression. Based on these findings, GDNF is a potential therapeutic target for preventing or ameliorating liver injury in ALD.
Estimating global determinants of leopard home range size in a changing world
Authors: Rodríguez‐Recio M , Burgos T , Krofel M , Lozano J , Moleón M , Virgós E
Published: March 2022

Movement is a fundamental process in animal ecology. For many species, such as large carnivores, movement patterns are greatly shaped by a combination of ecological and anthropogenic factors. Understanding how these factors impact the roaming capacity of large carnivores is essential to forecast risks and design long‐term conservation strategies. The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a generalist predator broadly distributed over varied and different environments, but global leopard populations are declining at a concerning rate and conservation actions are pressing. This scenario makes the leopard a suitable species to understand how global ecological and anthropogenic drivers affect the spatial behaviour of large carnivores and how these should inform conservation efforts. We compiled data from local studies worldwide and used macroecological (climatic, productivity, and human footprint), and intra‐ and interspecific (conspecifics, competitors and prey) predictors to model the roaming requirements of leopards based on home range sizes. Male home range size was largely and positively related to the range sizes of local females and inversely to vegetation productivity. For females, higher seasonal variations in temperature like the observed in arid areas were associated with larger home ranges, while increased human impact resulted in smaller home ranges likely due to concentrated food resources such as domestic species. These predictors are linked to threatening global change processes due to anthropogenic activities that will likely impact the roaming behaviour of leopards in the coming decades with potential consequences for their populations worldwide. Our results provide crucial information towards the development of integrative research linking macroecological and local variables with global change predictions that can inform conservation programmes addressing future risks of degradation, endangerment and human‐leopard conservation conflicts.
Progesterone modulates CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory T Cells and TGF‐β1 in the maternal‐fetal interface of the late pregnant mouse
Authors: Yang Qianqian , Li Meihui , Zhao Ming , Lu Feifan , Yu Xiaomin , Li Li , Gu Zhongyi , Deng Yifang , Guan Rui
Published: March 2022

Objective

Progesterone supplementation is recommended to prevent spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) in clinical practice. However, the exact mechanism is still unclear. This study aims to better understand the mechanisms that progesterone can prevent PTB.

Methods

Late pregnant mice were given various doses of progesterone receptor antagonist mifepristone, and pregnancy outcomes were observed. Then, non‐pregnant and pregnant mice were given a subcutaneous injection of 40 mg/kg progesterone and 5 mg/kg mifepristone, respectively. CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg cells in peripheral blood and decidua basalis were detected by FACS. Expressions of FoxP3 and TGF‐β1 in the decidua basalis were detected.

Results

Mifepristone induced preterm birth, and an obvious dose‐response was found. Proportions of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg cells in the peripheral blood of non‐pregnant mice increased significantly after progesterone injection. CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg cells in the peripheral blood of pregnant mice increased significantly compared with those of non‐pregnant mice. In pregnant mice, mifepristone significantly decreased the proportions of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg cells in peripheral blood, and reduced proportions of Treg cells at the maternal‐fetal interface and expressions of FoxP3 and TGF‐β1 in the maternal‐fetal interface. Total 40 mg/kg of progesterone did not increase CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg in the peripheral blood of pregnant mice, but increased proportions of Treg cells at the maternal‐fetal interface and up‐regulated FoxP3 and TGF‐β1 expressions in the maternal‐fetal interface.

Conclusion

Progesterone promotes pregnancy immune homeostasis by up‐regulating Treg cells and TGF‐β1 expression in the maternal‐fetal interface. It may be one of the mechanisms of progesterone in preventing sPTB.
Battles forSocio‐SpatialHegemony in the Exilic Space of Exarcheia
Authors: Karlin John Ryan
Published: March 2022

The neighbourhood of Exarcheia in Athens, Greece has long been recognised as the socio‐spatial epicentre of the Athenian anarchist and anti‐authoritarian milieu wherein several self‐organised spaces, groups, and initiatives have thrived. In this paper, I characterise Exarcheia as an exilic space within the capitalist world‐system. Exilic spaces are paradoxical spaces of relative and precarious autonomy grounded in the principles of self‐organisation, solidarity, and mutual aid. While I highlight Exarcheia’s exilic status, I also investigate significant internal problematics and tensions. Specifically, I investigate the construction and implementation of a hegemonic project at the exilic scale revolving around the perception that certain anti‐social actors were gaining ground in the neighbourhood whose behaviours constituted a direct threat to Exarcheia’s exilic status. I then problematise the hegemonic consensus and identify a counter‐hegemonic response consisting of marginalised voices opposed to the hegemonic project in both theory and practice, signalling a crisis of exilic hegemony.
Advances in microfabrication technologies in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
Authors: Nadine Sara , Chung Ada , Diltemiz Sibel Emir , Yasuda Brooke , Lee Charles , Hosseini Vahid , Karamikamkar Solmaz , de Barros Natan Roberto , Mandal Kalpana , Advani Shailesh , Zamanian Benjamin Behnam , Mecwan Marvin , Zhu Yangzhi , Mofidfar Mohammad , Zare Mohammad Reza , Mano João , Dokmeci Mehmet Remzi , Alambeigi Farshid , Ahadian Samad
Published: March 2022

Background

Tissue engineering provides various strategies to fabricate an appropriate microenvironment to support the repair and regeneration of lost or damaged tissues. In this matter, several technologies have been implemented to construct close‐to‐native three‐dimensional structures at numerous physiological scales, which are essential to confer the functional characteristics of living tissues.

Methods

In this article, we review a variety of microfabrication technologies that are currently utilized for several tissue engineering applications, such as soft lithography, microneedles, templated and self‐assembly of microstructures, microfluidics, fiber spinning, and bioprinting.

Results

These technologies have considerably helped us to precisely manipulate cells or cellular constructs for the fabrication of biomimetic tissues and organs. Although currently available tissues still lack some crucial functionalities, including vascular networks, innervation, and lymphatic system, microfabrication strategies are being proposed to overcome these issues. Moreover, the microfabrication techniques that have progressed to the preclinical stage are also discussed.

Conclusions

This article aims to highlight the advantages and drawbacks of each technique and areas of further research for a more comprehensive and evolving understanding of microfabrication techniques in terms of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
Two sides of one medal: Arable weed vegetation of Europe in phytosociological data compared to agronomical weed surveys
Authors: Bürger Jana , Küzmič Filip , Šilc Urban , Jansen Florian , Bergmeier Erwin , Chytrý Milan , Cirujeda Alicia , Fogliatto Silvia , Fried Guillaume , Dostatny Denise F. , Gerowitt Bärbel , Glemnitz Michael , González‐Andújar José L. , Hernández Plaza Eva , Izquierdo Jordi , Kolářová Michaela , Lososová Zdeňka , Metcalfe Helen , Ņečajeva Jevgenija , Petit Sandrine , Pinke Gyula , Rašomavičius Valerijus , von Redwitz Christoph , Schumacher Matthias , Ulber Lena , Vidotto Francesco
Published: March 2022

Questions

Two scientific disciplines, vegetation science and weed science, study arable weed vegetation, which has seen a strong diversity decrease in Europe over the last decades. We compared two collections of plot‐based vegetation records originating from these two disciplines. The aim was to check the suitability of the collections for joint analysis and for addressing research questions from the opposing domains. We asked: are these collections complementary? If so, how can they be used for joint analysis?

Location

Europe.

Methods

We compared 13 311 phytosociological relevés and 13 328 records from weed science, concerning both data collection properties and the recorded species richness. To deal with bias in the data, we also analysed different subsets (i.e., crops, geographical regions, organic vs conventional fields, center vs edge plots).

Results

Records from vegetation science have an average species number of 19.0 ± 10.4. Metadata on survey methodology or agronomic practices are rare in this collection. Records from weed science have an average species number of 8.5 ± 6.4. They are accompanied by extensive methodological information. Vegetation science records and the weed science records taken at field edges or from organic fields have similar species numbers. The collections cover different parts of Europe but the results are consistent in six geographical subsets and the overall data set. The difference in species numbers may be caused by differences in methodology between the disciplines, i.e., plot positioning within fields, plot sizes, or survey timing.

Conclusion

This comparison of arable weed data that were originally sampled with a different purpose represents a new effort in connecting research between vegetation scientists and weed scientists. Both collections show different aspects of weed vegetation, which means the joint use of the data is valuable as it can contribute to a more complete picture of weed species diversity in European arable landscapes.
How fairness and dominance guide young children’s bargaining decisions
Authors: Grueneisen Sebastian , Tomasello Michael
Published: March 2022

Reaching agreements in conflicts is an important developmental challenge. Here, German 5‐year‐olds (N = 284, 49% female, mostly White, mixed socioeconomic backgrounds; data collection: June 2016–November 2017) faced repeated face‐to‐face bargaining problems in which they chose between fair and unfair reward divisions. Across three studies, children mostly settled on fair divisions. However, dominant children tended to benefit more from bargaining outcomes (in Study 1 and 2 but not Study 3) and children mostly failed to use leverage to enforce fairness. Communication analyses revealed that children giving orders to their partner had a bargaining advantage and that children provided and responded to fairness reasons. These findings indicate that fairness concerns and dominance are both key factors that shape young children's bargaining decisions.
Overexpression of GRK6 alleviates chronic visceral hypersensitivity through downregulation of P2Y6 receptors in anterior cingulate cortex of rats with prenatal maternal stress
Authors: Tian Yuan‐Qing , Li Jia‐Hui , Li Yong‐Chang , Xu Yu‐Cheng , Zhang Ping‐An , Wang Qian , Li Rui , Xu Guang‐Yin
Published: March 2022

Aims

Visceral hypersensitivity is a major clinic symptom in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is involved in processing the information of pain. Both G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 6 (GRK6) and P2Y purinoceptor 6 (P2Y6) are associated with neuroinflammation and pathological pain. The aim of this study was to investigate the interaction between GRK6 and P2Y6 in ACC in the development of visceral hypersensitivity of adult offspring rats with prenatal maternal stress (PMS).

Methods

Visceral hypersensitivity was quantified by abdominal withdrawal reflex threshold to colorectal distension (CRD). The expression and cellular distribution of GRK6 and P2Y6 were determined by Western blotting, qPCR, and fluorescence immunohistochemistry. Co‐immunoprecipitation was used to evaluate the interaction between GRK6 and P2Y6.

Results

The mRNA and protein levels of GRK6 were significantly decreased in ACC of PMS rats. The injection of GRK6 overexpression virus significantly attenuated visceral hypersensitivity of PMS rats. P2Y6’s mRNA level, protein level, and ratio of membrane protein over total protein expression was markedly increased in PMS rats. P2Y6 antagonist MRS2578 microinjection reversed visceral hypersensitivity of PMS rats. GRK6 overexpression significantly reduced P2Y6’s expression in membrane proteins and P2Y6’s ratio of membrane protein over total protein expression.

Conclusions

These results indicate that decreased GRK6 leads to the accumulation of P2Y6 at neuron membrane in ACC, thereby contributing to visceral hypersensitivity of PMS rats.
Dying for love: Illegal international trade in hummingbird love charms
Authors: Trail Pepper W.
Published: March 2022

Hummingbirds (family Trochilidae) are among the most recognizable groups of birds, due to their tiny size, supremely maneuverable flight, and iridescent plumage. They are essential pollinators in ecosystems throughout the New World, and are welcome visitors to gardens and nectar feeders in every corner of the United States. Despite this familiarity, few people are aware that hummingbirds are the objects of active illegal international trade. The practice of incorporating the bodies of hummingbirds in love charms, known aschuparrosacharms, is a centuries‐old tradition in Mexico. The practice has now spread to the United States. This report summarizes investigations of the hummingbird trade by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service from 2013 to 2021. A total of 905 hummingbird carcasses were recovered in these investigations, representing 22 different species, 18 of which are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. While it appears that all hummingbirds were killed and packaged in Mexico, many originated from migratory U.S. populations. The species most frequently identified inchuparrosaswas Ruby‐throated Hummingbird, which nests entirely in the United States and occurs in Mexico only in the non‐breeding season. Much remains to be learned about the dimensions of thechuparrosatrade, and its possible impacts on hummingbird populations.
Pharmacogenomic landscape of Indian population using whole genomes
Authors: Sahana S. , Bhoyar Rahul C. , Sivadas Ambily , Jain Abhinav , Imran Mohamed , Rophina Mercy , Senthivel Vigneshwar , Kumar Diwakar Mohit , Sharma Disha , Mishra Anushree , Sivasubbu Sridhar , Scaria Vinod
Published: March 2022

Ethnic differences in pharmacogenomic (PGx) variants have been well documented in literature and could significantly impact variability in response and adverse events to therapeutics. India is a large country with diverse ethnic populations of distinct genetic architecture. India’s national genome sequencing initiative (IndiGen) provides a unique opportunity to explore the landscape of PGx variants using population‐scale whole genome sequences. We have analyzed the IndiGen variation dataset (N = 1029 genomes) along with global population scale databases to map the most prevalent clinically actionable and potentially deleterious PGx variants among Indians. Differential frequencies for the known and novel variants were studied and interaction of the disrupted PGx genes affecting drug responses were analyzed by performing a pathway analysis. We have highlighted significant differences in the allele frequencies of clinically actionable PGx variants in Indians when compared to the global populations. We identified 134 mostly common (allele frequency [AF] > 0.1) potentially deleterious PGx variants that could alter or inhibit the function of 102 pharmacogenes in Indians. We also estimate that on, an average, each Indian individual carried eight PGx variants (single nucleotide variants) that have a direct impact on the choice of treatment or drug dosing. We have also highlighted clinically actionable PGx variants and genes for which preemptive genotyping is most recommended for the Indian population. The study has put forward the most comprehensive PGx landscape of the Indian population from whole genomes that could enable optimized drug selection and genotype‐guided prescriptions for improved therapeutic outcomes and minimizing adverse events.
Seasonal differences in the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in an overexploited shelf sea ecosystem
Authors: Li Yuru , Ma Shuyang , Fu Caihong , Li Jianchao , Tian Yongjun , Sun Peng , Ju Peilong , Liu Shude
Published: March 2022

Aim

Biodiversity loss results in reduced ecosystem functioning. However, the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning (the BEF relationship) in overexploited ecosystems remains controversial largely because of the lack of validation in nature. Therefore, in this study, through four seasonal trawl surveys of demersal fish assemblages off the shelf sea of Shandong Province, China, we explored BEF relationships and their seasonal variability. Furthermore, we assessed the relative importance of the environment and biodiversity on biomass variations.

Location

Shelf sea of Shandong Province, China.

Methods

At each station, we calculated taxonomic and functional diversity indices, and examined their association with ecosystem functioning based on the biomass index. Moreover, we examined the biomass index's association with two environmental variables, sea bottom temperature and sea surface chlorophyll‐a concentration, to investigate the relative importance of the environmental conditions in explaining changes in ecosystem functioning.

Results

Two taxonomic diversity indices (species richness and variance) and two functional diversity indices (functional richness and functional evenness) were significantly associated with biomass in at least one season. However, the BEF relationships were not consistent among the seasons, highlighting the need to consider season‐specific biodiversity indices (e.g., functional evenness). Specifically, despite consistently significant BEF relationships in the four seasons for species richness, variance, and functional richness, we noted temporally variable BEF relationships for functional evenness. Both the environment and biodiversity produced a strong synergistic effect on biomass, although their relative importance varied among seasons.

Main conclusions

Biodiversity greatly contributes to ecosystem functioning, underscoring the need to assess the consequences of biodiversity loss on ecosystems using integrated taxonomic and trait‐based approaches. Our findings on season‐dependent BEF relationships provide evidence for considering seasonal factors before applying BEF relationships to ecosystem‐based management, at least in overexploited shelf sea ecosystems.
Walking activity after multilevel orthopedic surgery in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Church Chris , Biermann Isabel , Lennon Nancy , Henley John D. , Butler Stephanie , Niiler Tim , Shrader Michael Wade , Miller Freeman , Howard Jason J.
Published: March 2022

Aim

To determine how surgical burden and preoperative factors affect the recovery of walking activity after multilevel orthopedic surgery (MLS).

Method

In this retrospective study, inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, MLS, and walking activity monitoring using a StepWatch device within 12 months pre‐MLS and 24 months post‐MLS. The outcome measure was total mean strides per day normalized to age and Gross Motor Function Classification System level. Pre‐ and postoperative walking activity were compared using unpaired t‐tests; the effects of preoperative predictors and surgical burden on the recovery of walking activity were evaluated using regression analysis.

Results

Participants included 178 children (mean age 12 years 10 months [SD 8 years 7 months; range 4–20 years]; 91 males, 87 females). On average, children returned to baseline walking activity 3 months after low‐burden surgery and 1 year 2 months after high‐burden surgery. Postoperative walking activity was higher for children who had surgery at a younger age and those with a higher preoperative mobility function.

Interpretation

The burden of MLS was found to be inversely related to the time to recovery of postoperative walking activity. These findings provide evidence to help clinicians set expectations for return to function post‐MLS. Further study is necessary to investigate the impact of postoperative factors on walking activity recovery.

What this paper adds

High‐burden surgeries lead to longer recovery than low‐burden surgeries.

Younger children recover walking activity faster after multilevel orthopedic surgery.

Children with high preoperative mobility function recover walking activity faster after surgery.
Effectiveness of group metacognitive training and cognitive–behavioural therapy in a transdiagnostic manner for young patients with psychotic and non‐psychotic disorders
Authors: Kim Sung‐Wan , Hyun Sumi , Kim Jae‐Kyoung , Kim Honey , Jhon Min , Kim Ju‐Wan , Park Cheol , Lee Ju‐Yeon , Kim Jae‐Min
Published: March 2022

Aim

To investigate group metacognitive training and cognitive–behavioural therapy (MCT/CBT) prospectively in a young population with various psychiatric disorders, including psychotic and mood disorders.

Methods

This was a prospective study to investigate the effectiveness of group MCT/CBT on quality of life, psychotic symptoms, depression, self‐esteem, perceived stress, social function and social cognition. The objective measures included the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), clinical global impression (CGI), personal and social performance scale for social functioning, a computerized continuous performance test for sustained attention and a computerized emotional recognition test for social cognition. Self‐report measures administered included the Subjective Well‐being under Neuroleptics for quality of life, Ambiguous Intentions Hostility Questionnaire for suspiciousness, Drug Attitude Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory, Perceived Stress Scale, Brief Resilience Scale, Rosenberg Self‐esteem Scale and visual analogue scale for the EQ‐5D.

Results

Among 110 young patients with early psychosis and mood disorders who participated, 82 (74.5%) completed the study. Social functioning, quality of life, self‐esteem, resilience, depression, suspiciousness, social cognition, sustained attention and scores on the PANSS and CGI improved significantly after completing group MCT/CBT. Perceived stress, resilience and suspiciousness improved significantly only in participants with a non‐psychotic disorder. Improvements in subjective well‐being of the participants were associated with increases in self‐esteem and resilience and decreases in depression and perceived stress.

Conclusions

Our study showed that group transdiagnostic MCT/CBT for young patients with mental illness improved subjective wellbeing, self‐esteem, resilience, social cognition and social functioning and significantly diminished suspiciousness, perceived stress and depression.
Competition and diversification in higher education: Analysing impacts on access and equity in the case of Portugal
Authors: Teixeira Pedro N. , Silva Pedro Luís , Biscaia Ricardo , Sá Carla
Published: March 2022

In recent decades, higher education has experienced a massive expansion worldwide, which has often been linked to increasing higher education diversification. New sectors and new types of institutions emerged with this massification process to offer more diversified types of advanced training. At the same time, this expansion was often embedded in a political economy that increasingly favoured market forces, leading to growing privatisation and competition in the higher education sector. This article explores the relevance of institutional diversification and competition in higher education for access and equity in Portugal. The case of higher education in Portugal is particularly interesting since Portugal has a diverse system both in secondary education and in higher education, with significant vocational and private sectors at both levels (besides the more common academic and university tracks and public institutions). We analyse the profile of new cohorts of entrants by sector (public vs. private higher education institutions) and fields of study. Our results suggest that private secondary schools provide an advantageous track for accessing higher education, especially to prestigious programmes and institutions to which students compete to access. The analysis also indicates that socioeconomic background is a very relevant factor for access to higher education. Although students whose parents do not have a higher education degree may enrol in higher education, those whose parents have higher levels of educational attainment tend to enrol in more prestigious programmes and institutions, to which access is more competitive.
Female sex pheromone emission is affected by body condition, but not immune system function, in the orb‐web spider Argiope bruennichi
Authors: Weiss Katharina , Schneider Jutta M.
Published: March 2022

Sex pheromones function as species and sex recognition signals but can be equally important for mate assessment and choice. Adaptive mate choice requires the covariation of signal characteristics with fitness‐relevant traits, which can be achieved by condition‐dependent costs of signalling. Given a physiological link between signal production and other vital processes, such as immune system function, the expression of the sexual signal may result in decreased body condition or increased pathogen susceptibility. According to honest signalling theory, only high‐quality individuals should be able to produce high‐quality sexual signals. We tested this prediction in the sexual signal of female wasp spiders, Argiope bruennichi. Female A. bruennichi produce the volatile pheromone trimethyl methylcitrate, which not only attracts males from a distance but also is the main foundation for short‐distance male mate choice. Recent experiments showed that females use pheromones prudently and tailor the amount of pheromone produced to their needs, suggesting costs of pheromone production. Here we manipulated female physiological condition using both immune challenge and feeding treatments in a fully factorial design. Fed or starved females were injured with a needle that was sterile or coated with bacterial lipopolysaccharides. We found no effect of immune system stimulation on pheromone production, but food stress significantly reduced the amount of pheromone produced. Importantly, this response was apparent in terms of both absolute pheromone amounts and body mass‐normalized relative pheromone amounts indicating that this effect was due to reduced pheromone production rather than reduced body surface or volume. Given the close association of the female pheromone and the citric acid cycle, the main catabolism pathway for energy production in the cell, we argue that the female pheromone of A. bruennichi may signal a female's general capacity of energy production according to the “shared pathway hypothesis” for signal honesty.
Secretomes as an emerging class of bioactive ingredients for enhanced cosmeceutical applications
Authors: Tan Kei‐Xian , Chang Trixie , Lin Xiangliang
Published: March 2022

Skin ageing is predominantly caused by either intrinsic or extrinsic factors, leading to undesirable skin features. Advancements in both molecular and cellular fields have created possibilities in developing novel stem cell‐derived active ingredients for cosmeceutical applications and the beauty industry. Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)‐derived secretomes or conditioned media hold great promise for advancing skin repair and regeneration due to the presence of varying cytokines. These cytokines signal our cells and trigger biological mechanisms associated with anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, anti‐ageing, proliferative and immunomodulatory effects. In this review, we discuss the potential of MSC secretomes as novel biomaterials for skincare and rejuvenation by illustrating their mechanism of action related to wound healing, anti‐ageing and whitening properties. The advantages and disadvantages of secretomes are compared with both plant‐based and animal‐derived extracts. In addition, this paper reviews the current safety standards, regulations, market products and research work related to the cosmeceutical applications of secretomes along with strategies to maintain and improve the therapeutic efficacy and production of secretomes. The future outlook of beauty industry is also presented. Lastly, we highlight significant challenges to be addressed for the clinical realization of MSC secretomes‐based skin therapies as well as providing perspectives for the future direction of secretomes.
Emerging Ideas: Father–child exchanges, configurations, and discourse during shared book‐reading: An interaction analysis
Authors: Campbell Cory J. , Schindler Holly S.
Published: March 2022

Objective and Background

Shared book‐reading (SBR) has long been thought of as a way to improve language skills in children, but the specifics of SBR practices have been studied less often, especially with fathers.

Method

This study used interaction analysis—a qualitative methodology that examines the participants' discourse, actions, and surroundings together—to examine videos of nine predominantly Hispanic fathers as they engaged in SBR with their infants and toddlers (aged 9–35 months) using a developmentally appropriate book offered in both English and Spanish. Analyses examined the discourse strategies fathers used during SBR, how fathers physically supported joint attention, and how discourse was supported through physical reading configurations, conjoined speech, and movement practices.

Conclusion and Implications

Findings illustrate how interaction analysis allows for additional information of fathers' and children's SBR practices to be examined in future studies. This study suggests that more holistic assessments of infants' and toddlers' communicative behaviors and language should be used when interacting with fathers and their young children.
Intersectional identities and career progression in retail: The experiences of minority‐ethnic women
Authors: Kele Juliet Elizabeth , Cassell Catherine , Ford Jacqueline , Watson Kathryn
Published: March 2022

Contributing to scholarship on diversity and inclusion (D&I) and careers within UK retailing, this paper documents the lived experiences of minority‐ethnic women working in retail. Given the extensive research on both the career obstacles faced by women in a highly feminized sector and the disadvantages experienced by minority‐ethnic workers in the UK labor market more broadly, consideration of social identity categories beyond gender and their impact on retailing careers in the existing literature is limited. Here we use intersectionality theory to explain how individual‐level identity categories, such as gender, ethnicity and religion, intersect with wider organisational practices, which disadvantage the career progression of minority‐ethnic women in UK retail. In a service‐driven sector dependent upon consumers, we conclude that there is a need to consider intersectional identity experiences and power relations within the customer‐employee relationship, as this disproportionately affects minority‐ethnic women and the realization of their career goals in retail.
A critical analysis of clinical research methods to study regenerative endodontics
Authors: Galler Kerstin M. , Akamp Tobias , Knüttel Helge , Widbiller Matthias
Published: March 2022

Regenerative endodontic treatment such as revitalization provides a treatment option for immature teeth with pulp necrosis. The main difference to the alternative procedure, the apical plug, is the induction of a blood clot inside the canal as a scaffold for healing and new tissue formation. Due to the biology‐based and minimally‐invasive nature of the treatment, revitalization has raised considerable interest in recent years. Whereas the procedure is fairly new and recommendations from endodontic societies have been in place only for a few years, the treatment protocol has evolved over the past two decades. Evidence has been created, not only from laboratory and animal work, but also from clinical studies including case reports, cohort studies and eventually prospective randomized controlled clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. However, the research methods and clinical studies with subsequent reports oftentimes present with methodical limitations, which makes it difficult to objectively assess the value of this treatment modality. Several open questions remain, including the need for a more differentiated indication of revitalization after different traumatic injuries, the long‐term prognosis of treated teeth and the true benefits for the patient. Therefore, this review aims to identify and reflect on such limitations, scrutinizing study design, diagnostic tools, procedural details and outcome parameters. A core outcome set is also proposed in this context, which can be considered in future clinical investigations. These considerations may lead to a more detailed and stringent planning and execution of future studies in order to create high‐quality evidence for the treatment modality of revitalization and thus provide more robust data, create a larger body of knowledge for clinicians and further specify current recommendations.
Laser sintering of Al2O3‐based green ceramics prepared by different pre‐sintering temperatures
Authors: Liu Yayun , Wang Chuanyang , Zhang Kedong
Published: March 2022

Al2O3‐based green ceramics are prepared by isostatic cold pressing technology. The prepared green ceramics are pre‐sintered at the temperature from room temperature to 1100°C, and then Al2O3 ceramics are prepared by laser sintering. The effects of pre‐sintering temperatures and laser parameters on mechanical properties and the sintering quality are analyzed. The results show that good crystallinity of Al2O3 particles is obtained at a higher pre‐sintering temperature. The flexural strength and density of green ceramics increase with the temperature of heat treatment. The flexural strength decreases slightly at ∼200°C due to the paraffin binder disintegration. The pre‐sintering temperature and laser processing parameters have a significant influence on the sintering quality. With the increase of laser power and laser frequency, dynamic grain growth occurs, and then grains are refined. The majority of plate‐like grains are transformed into long cylindrical‐like grains in the severe densification process. However, porous flocculation microstructures are generated on the samples pre‐sintered at 1100°C after laser sintering, which is due to the material gasification in atmospheric environment during sintering by infrared laser. More uniform microstructure and better sintering quality of samples pre‐sintered at 500°C can be achieved after laser sintering with a relatively narrower grain size distribution.
A reinforcement learning approach for transaction scheduling in a shuttle‐based storage and retrieval system
Authors: Ekren Banu Y. , Arslan Bartu
Published: March 2022

With recent Industry 4.0 developments, companies tend to automate their industries. Warehousing companies also take part in this trend. A shuttle‐based storage and retrieval system (SBS/RS) is an automated storage and retrieval system technology experiencing recent drastic market growth. This technology is mostly utilized in large distribution centers processing mini‐loads. With the recent increase in e‐commerce practices, fast delivery requirements with low volume orders have increased. SBS/RS provides ultrahigh‐speed load handling due to having an excess amount of shuttles in the system. However, not only the physical design of an automated warehousing technology but also the design of operational system policies would help with fast handling targets. In this work, in an effort to increase the performance of an SBS/RS, we apply a machine learning (ML) (i.e.,Q‐learning) approach on a newly proposed tier‐to‐tier SBS/RS design, redesigned from a traditional tier‐captive SBS/RS. The novelty of this paper is twofold: First, we propose a novel SBS/RS design where shuttles can travel between tiers in the system; second, due to the complexity of operation of shuttles in that newly proposed design, we implement an ML‐based algorithm for transaction selection in that system. The ML‐based solution is compared with traditional scheduling approaches: first‐in‐first‐out and shortest process time (i.e., travel) scheduling rules. The results indicate that in most cases, theQ‐learning approach performs better than the two static scheduling approaches.
Sharpening polycrystalline phase boundary for potassium sodium niobate ceramics with MnF2 modification
Authors: Tao Hong , Yin Jie , Wu Wenjuan , Zhao Lin , Ma Jian , Wu Bo
Published: March 2022

The influence of anion on structure and performance is unclear in potassium sodium niobate ((K,Na)NbO3; KNN)‐based ceramics, while cation doping has been widely researched. Here, the phase structure and electrical properties are explored in MnF2‐doped KNN ceramics. Significantly, sharp rhombohedral–orthorhombic (R–O) and orthorhombic–tetragonal (O–T) phase boundary as well as reduced diffusion degree is exhibited in the ceramics along with little changed phase transition temperatures due to the optimized F− content at O site, which is different from that of cation replacement for A and B sites. Notably, the domain wall motion is facilitated due to the increased A vacancy and decreased O vacancy along with strengthened polarity, originating from the higher valence state and electronegativity of F− with respect to O2−. And then, enhanced ferroelectricity is realized via MnF2 modification, the piezoelectricity is elevated in turn. This work presents a new idea of anion doping for controlling structure and properties in perovskite materials.
Integration of Design Thinking with Cultural Intelligence in Higher Education for a Socially Complex Environment
Authors: Peng Fanke , Kueh Christopher
Published: March 2022

This article focuses on international design education and the benefits of combining design thinking with cross‐cultural empathy, in addressing ‘wicked’ global problems in our society. There is a lack of cross‐cultural design thinking‐specific approaches in international education literature. This study aims to cover the main contributors to the development of design thinking, Cultural Intelligence (CQ), and explore their different views. It discusses the metric of CQ, its importance in the world today and how to improve CQ, through cross‐cultural design workshops and units that deal with ‘wicked’ global problems and scenarios. The approach involves a combination of design thinking methods with an empathy framework, to seek meaningful participation in the entire design process for a socially complex environment. Furthermore, the results reveal that, co‐design with cross‐cultural empathy relates to the increasing development of CQ. The findings are discussed and related to the implications for the use of design thinking in international higher education.
Characterization of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli with special reference to antimicrobial resistance isolated from hospitalized diarrhoeal patients in Kolkata (2012–2019), India
Authors: Ghosh Debjani , Chowdhury Goutam , Samanta Prosenjit , Shaw Sreeja , Deb Alok K. , Bardhan Mainak , Manna Asis , Miyoshi Shin-ichi , Ramamurthy Thandavarayan , Dutta Shanta , Mukhopadhyay Asish K.
Published: March 2022

Aims

This study analyses the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of major diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) pathotypes detected in hospitalized diarrhoeal patients in Kolkata, India, during 2012–2019.

Methods and Results

A total of 8891 stool samples were collected from the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Kolkata and screened for the presence of enteric pathogens. Multiplex PCR identified the presence of DEC in 7.8% of the samples, in which ETEC was most common (47.7%) followed by EAEC (38.4%) and EPEC (13.9%). About 54% cases were due to sole DEC infections. Majority of the mixed DEC infections were caused by the Vibrio spp. (19.1%) followed by Rotavirus (14.1%) and Campylobacter spp. (8.4%). ETEC and EAEC were associated significantly with diarrhoea in children <5 years of age, whereas EPEC and also ETEC were prevalent in patients aged between 5 and 14 years. AMR profile showed high prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) among DEC (56.9%) in which 9% were resistant to antibiotics of six different antimicrobial classes. Screening of the AMR conferring genes of DEC showed the presence of blaCTX-M3 (30.2%) in highest number followed by blaTEM (27.5%), tetB (18%), sul2 (12.6%), strA (11.8%), aadA1 (9.8%), blaOXA-1 (9%), dfrA1 (1.6%) and blaSHV (1.2%).

Conclusions

These findings highlighted the high prevalence of MDR in major DEC pathotypes that could be considered as the leading aetiological bacterial agent responsible for diarrhoea and suggests a significant public health threat.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The results of this study can help to improve the understanding of the epidemiology of DEC infections in patients with diarrhoea. Monitoring of AMR surveillance needs special attention because the DEC isolates were highly resistant to commonly used antimicrobials in the treatment of diarrhoea.