bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence and topography of spinal cord demyelination in multiple sclerosis: a retrospective study
Authors: Waldman Alex D. , Catania Cecilia , Pisa Marco , Jenkinson Mark , Lenardo Michael J. , DeLuca Gabriele C.
Published: June 2022

Spinal cord pathology is a major determinant of irreversible disability in progressive multiple sclerosis. The demyelinated lesion is a cardinal feature. The well-characterised anatomy of the spinal cord and new analytic approaches allows the systematic study of lesion topography and its extent of inflammatory activity unveiling new insights into disease pathogenesis. We studied cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal cord tissue from 119 pathologically confirmed multiple sclerosis cases. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect demyelination (PLP) and classify lesional inflammatory activity (CD68). Prevalence and distribution of demyelination, staged by lesion activity, was determined and topographical maps were created to identify patterns of lesion prevalence and distrtibution using mixed models and permutation-based voxelwise analysis. 460 lesions were observed throughout the spinal cord with 76.5% of cases demonstrating at least 1 lesion. The cervical level was preferentially affected by lesions. 58.3% of lesions were inflammatory with 87.9% of cases harbouring at least 1 inflammatory lesion. Topographically, lesions consistently affected the dorsal and lateral columns with relative sparing of subpial areas in a distribution mirroring the vascular network. The presence of spinal cord lesions and the proportion of active lesions related strongly with clinical disease milestones, including time from onset to wheelchair and onset to death. We demonstrate that spinal cord demyelination is common, highly inflammatory, has a predilection for the cervical level, and relates to clinical disability. The topography of lesions in the dorsal and lateral columns and relative sparing of subpial areas points to a role of the vasculature in lesion pathogenesis, suggesting short-range cell infiltration from the blood and signaling molecules circulating in the perivascular space incite lesion development. These findings challenge the notion that end-stage progressive multiple sclerosis is ‘burnt out’ and an outside-in lesional gradient predominates in the spinal cord. Taken together, this study provides support for long-term targeting of inflammatory demyelination in the spinal cord and nominates vascular dysfunction as a potential target for new therapeutic approaches to limit irreversible disability.
Protective efficacy of COVAXIN® against Delta and Omicron variants in hamster model
Authors: Yadav Pragya D , Mohandas Sreelekshmy , Shete Anita , Sapkal Gajanan , Deshpande Gururaj , Kumar Abhimanyu , Wakchaure Kundan , Dighe Hitesh , Jain Rajlaxmi , Ganneru Brunda , Yemul Jyoti , Gawande Pranita , Mohan Krishna , Abraham Priya
Published: June 2022

The immunity acquired after natural infection or vaccinations against SARS-CoV-2 tend to wane with time. Vaccine effectiveness also varies with the variant of infection. Here, we compared the protective efficacy of COVAXIN® following 2 and 3 dose immunizations against the Delta variant and also studied the efficacy of COVAXIN® against Omicron variants in a Syrian hamster model. The antibody response, clinical observations, viral load reduction and lung disease severity after virus challenge were studied. Protective response in terms of the reduction in lung viral load and lung lesions were observed in both the 2 dose as well as 3 doses COVAXIN® immunized group when compared to placebo group following the Delta variant challenge. In spite of the comparable neutralizing antibody response against the homologous vaccine strain in both the 2 dose and 3 dose immunized groups, considerable reduction in the lung disease severity was observed in the 3 dose immunized group post Delta variant challenge indicating the involvement of cell mediated immune response also in protection. In the vaccine efficacy study against the Omicron variants i.e., BA.1 and BA.2, lesser virus shedding, lung viral load and lung disease severity were observed in the immunized groups in comparison to the placebo groups. The present study shows that administration of COVAXIN® booster dose will enhance the vaccine effectiveness against the Delta variant infection and give protection against the Omicron variants BA.1.1 and BA.2.
Aspects determining adherence to wrist-hand orthoses in patients with peripheral neuropathies
Authors: Bula-Oyola Ena , Belda-Lois Juan-Manuel , Porcar-Seder Rosa , Page Alvaro
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

People with peripheral neuropathies may experience significant sensorimotor impairment. Prescribed treatment includes wearing an orthosis. However, a common barrier to treatment effectiveness is patient adherence. Given the limited information available, it is essential to gather evidence on treatment adherence challenges.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify aspects that influence adherence to orthotic treatment in patients with peripheral neuropathies.

METHODS

We applied a survey that included evaluation items from the Quest 2.0 to assess importance and satisfaction and self-developed questions. We conducted the assessment following the principles of Kano’s model to understand the nature of the aspects influencing adherence and prioritize opportunities for product improvement.

RESULTS

Satisfaction with ease of adjustment, weight, ease of use, effectiveness, and dimensions, as well as perceived interference with daily activities, influences adherence to treatment. We found no correlation between orthosis appearance and adherence. However, it is a basic quality attribute and should be considered a relevant design requirement to avoid product rejection.

CONCLUSIONS

We found differences between the estimate of importance obtained by explicit and inexplicit queries. Thus, cross-checking information from different query methods could minimize potential biases and accurately assess users’ perceptions of rehabilitation products.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy and Confidence in the Philippines and Malaysia: A Cross-sectional Study of Sociodemographic Factors and Information-Seeking
Authors: Brackstone K , Marzo RR , Bahari R , Head MG , Patalinghug ME , Su TT
Published: June 2022

With the emergence of the highly transmissible Omicron variant, large-scale vaccination coverage is crucial to the national and global pandemic response, especially in populous Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines and Malaysia. Little is known, however, about predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and vaccine confidence among unvaccinated individuals in these regions. An internet-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 2021 to September 2021. Data from a total of 2558 participants from the Philippines (N = 1002) and Malaysia (N = 1556) were analysed. Results showed that Filipino (vs. Malaysian) participants indicated higher prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (56.6 vs. 22.9%, p = 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in ratings of vaccine confidence between Filipino (45.9%) and Malaysian (49.2%) participants (p = 0.105). Predictors associated with greater vaccine hesitancy included females (p = 0.029) and rural dwellers (p = 0.015) among Filipino participants, whereas females (p = 0.004), 25-34 year olds (p = 0.027), Christians (p < 0.001), and social media use (p < 0.001) were associated with hesitancy among Malaysian participants. Predictors associated with lower confidence included females (p = 0.026) and information seeking (p < 0.001) among Filipino participants, whereas predictors associated with lower confidence among Malaysian participants included residing in a rural community (p = 0.004), Christians (p < 0.001), online information seeking (p < 0.001), and determining relevance of online information (p = 0.013). Efforts to improve uptake of COVID-19 vaccination must be centred upon targeting specific communities using local authorities and for the masses through social media. Efforts should focus on determining effective interventions to decrease vaccination hesitancy and increase the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination, particularly in light of the Dengvaxia crisis in the Philippines.
Ultra-low coverage genome-wide association study – insights into gestational age using 17,844 embryo samples with preimplantation genetic testing
Authors: Li Shumin , Yan Bin , Li Thomas K.T. , Lu Jianliang , Gu Yifan , Tan Yueqiu , Gong Fei , Lam Tak-Wah , Xie Pingyuan , Wang Yuexuan , Lin Ge , Luo Ruibang
Published: June 2022

Background

Very low coverage (0.1 to 1x) whole genome sequencing (WGS) has become a promising and affordable approach to discover genomic variants of human populations for Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS). To support genetic screening using Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in a large population, the sequencing coverage goes below 0.1x to an ultra-low level. However, its feasibility and effectiveness for GWAS remains undetermined.

Methods

We devised a pipeline to process ultra-low coverage WGS data and benchmarked the accuracy of genotype imputation at the combination of different coverages below 0.1x and sample sizes from 2,000 to 16,000, using 17,844 embryo PGT with approximately 0.04x average coverage and the standard Chinese sample HG005 with known genotypes. We then applied the imputed genotypes of 1,744 transferred embryos who have gestational ages and complete follow-up records to GWAS.

Results

The accuracy of genotype imputation under ultra-low coverage can be improved by increasing the sample size and applying a set of filters. From 1,744 born embryos, we identified 11 genomic risk loci associated with gestational ages and 166 genes mapped to these loci according to positional, expression quantitative trait locus and chromatin interaction strategies. Among these mapped genes,CRHBP, ICAM1andOXTRwere more frequently reported as preterm birth related. By joint analysis of gene expression data from previous studies, we constructed interrelationships of mainlyCRHBP, ICAM1, PLAGL1, DNMT1, CNTLN, DKK1andEGR2with preterm birth, infant disease and breast cancer.

Conclusions

This study not only demonstrates that ultra-low coverage WGS could achieve relatively high accuracy of adequate genotype imputation and is capable of GWAS, but also provides insights into uncovering genetic associations of gestational age trait existed in the fetal embryo samples from Chinese or Eastern Asian populations.
The membrane activity of the amphibian Temporin B peptide analog TB_KKG6K sheds light on the mechanism that kills Candida albicans
Authors: Kakar Anant , Sastré-Velásquez Luis Enrique , Hess Michael , Galgóczy László , Papp Csaba , Holzknecht Jeanett , Romanelli Alessandra , Váradi Györgyi , Malanovic Nermina , Marx Florentine
Published: June 2022

Temporin B (TB) is a 13 amino acid long, cationic peptide secreted by the granular glands of the European frog Rana temporaria. We could recently show that the modified TB peptide analog TB_KKG6K rapidly killed planktonic and sessile Candida albicans at low µM concentrations and was neither hemolytic nor cytotoxic to mammalian cells in vitro. The present study aimed to shed light into its mechanism of action, with a focus on its fungal cell membrane activity. We utilized different fluorescent dyes to prove that it rapidly induces membrane depolarization and permeabilization. Studies on model membrane systems revealed that the TB analog undergoes hydrophobic and electrostatic membrane interactions showing a preference for anionic lipids and identified phosphatidylinositol and cardiolipin as possible peptide targets. Fluorescence microscopy using FITC-labelled TB_KKG6K in the presence of the lipophilic dye FM4-64 indicated that the peptide compromises membrane integrity and rapidly enters C. albicans cells in an energy independent manner. Peptide treated cells analyzed by cryo-based electron microscopy exhibited no signs of cell lysis; however, subcellular structures were disintegrated, suggesting that intracellular activity may form part of the killing mechanism of the peptide. Taken together, this study proved that the TB_KKG6K compromises C. albicans membrane function, which explains the previously observed rapid, fungicidal mode of action and promises its great potential as a future anti-Candida therapeutic.

Importance

Fungal infections with the opportunistic human pathogen C. albicans are associated with high moratility rates in immunocompromised patients. This is partly due to the yeast’s ability to rapidly develop resistance towards currently available antifungals. Small, cationic, membrane-active peptides are promising compounds to fight against resistance development as many of them effectuate rapid fungal cell death. This fast killing is believed to hamper the development of resistance, as the fungi do not have sufficient time to adapt to the antifungal compound. We prevously reported that the synthetic variant of the amphibian Temporin B peptide, TB_KKG6K, rapidly kills C. albicans. In the current study, the mechanism of action of the TB analog was investigated. We show that this TB analog is membrane-active and impairs cell membrane function, highlighting its potential to be developed as an attractive alternative anti-C. albicans therapeutic, which may hinder the development of resistance.
Generation and characterization of conditional yeast mutants affecting each of the two essential functions of the scaffolding proteins Boi1/2 and Bem1
Authors: Sulpizio Abigail , Herpin Lancelot , Gingras Robert , Liu Wenyu , Bretscher Anthony
Published: June 2022

Boi1 and Boi2 are closely related yeast scaffolding proteins, either of which can perform an essential function. Previous studies have suggested a role in cell polarity, interacting with lipids, components of the late secretory pathway, and actin nucleators. We report detailed studies of their localization, dynamics, and the generation and characterization of conditional mutants. Boi1/2 are present on the plasma membrane in dynamic patches, then at the bud neck during cytokinesis. These distributions are unaffected by perturbation of the actin cytoskeleton or the secretory pathway. We identify two critical aromatic residues, present in both Boi1 and Boi2, in the essential C-terminal PH domain, that cause temperature sensitive growth resulting in defects in polarized growth leading to cell lysis. The scaffolding protein, Bem1, colocalizes with Boi1 in patches at the growing bud, and at the bud neck, the latter requiring the N-terminal SH3 domain of Boi1p. Loss of function of Boi1-SH3 domain renders Bem1 essential which can be fully replaced by a fusion of the SH3b and PB1 domains of Bem1. Thus, the two essential functions of the Boi1/2/Bem1 proteins can be satisfied by Bem1-SH3b-PB1 and Boi1-PH. Generation and characterization of conditional mutations in the essential function of Bem1 reveal a slow onset of defects in polarized growth, which is difficult to define a specific initial defect. This study provides more details into the functions of Boi1/2 and their relationship with Bem1, and presents the generation of conditional mutants that will be useful for future genetic analysis.
Molecular Transport of the Zika Virus by the Human Cytoplasmic Dynein-1
Authors: Zavala Vargas Dan Israel , Carbajal Giovani Visoso , Barrón Leticia Cedillo , Filisola Villaseñor Jessica Georgina , Ramirez Romel Rosales , Ludert Juan E. , Morales-Ríos Edgar
Published: June 2022

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is a major public health threat, making the study of its biology a matter of great importance. By analyzing the viral-host protein interactions and proposing them as new drug targets, we would diminish the emergence of new resistant strains. In this work, we have shown that human cytoplasmic dynein-1 (Dyn) interacts with the ZIKV. We additionally demonstrate that the envelope protein of the ZIKV and the dimerization domain of the heavy chain of Dyn binds directly without dynactin or cargo adaptor. In addition, we have analyzed this interaction in Vero cells, where we are proposing that the interaction ZIKV-Dyn is finely tuned within the replication cycle. Altogether, our data suggest a new step in the previously described replication cycle of the ZIKV, introducing a suitable molecular target to modulate infection by ZIKV.
Moral injury and psychological wellbeing in UK healthcare staff
Authors: Williamson Victoria , Lamb Danielle , Hotopf Matthew , Raine Rosalind , Stevelink Sharon , Wessely Simon , Docherty Mary , Madan Ira , Murphy Dominic , Greenberg Neil
Published: June 2022

Background

Potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) can negatively impact mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic may have placed healthcare staff at risk of moral injury.

Aim

To examine the impact of PMIE on healthcare staff wellbeing.

Method

12,965 healthcare staff (clinical and non-clinical) were recruited from 18 NHS-England trusts into a survey of PMIE exposure and wellbeing.

Results

PMIEs were significantly associated with adverse mental health symptoms across healthcare staff. Specific work factors were significantly associated with experiences of moral injury, including being redeployed, lack of PPE, and having a colleague die of COVID-19. Nurses who reported symptoms of mental disorders were more likely to report all forms of PMIEs than those without symptoms (AOR 2.7; 95% CI 2.2, 3.3). Doctors who reported symptoms were only more likely to report betrayal events, such as breach of trust by colleagues (AOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.5, 4.9).

Conclusions

A considerable proportion of NHS healthcare staff in both clinical and non-clinical roles report exposure to PMIEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prospective research is needed to identify the direction of causation between moral injury and mental disorder as well as continuing to monitor the longer term outcomes of exposure to PMIEs.
Capturing the experiences of UK healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: A structural topic modelling analysis of 7,412 free-text survey responses
Authors: Lamb Danielle , Wright Liam , Scott Hannah , Croak Bethany , Gnanapragasam Sam , Docherty Mary , Greenberg Neil , Hotopf Matthew , Stevelink Sharon A.M. , Raine Rosalind , Wessely Simon
Published: June 2022

Background

Healthcare workers (HCWs) have provided vital services during the COVID-19 pandemic, but existing research consists of quantitative surveys (lacking in depth or context) or qualitative interviews (with limited generalisability). Structural Topic Modelling (STM) of large-scale free-text survey data offers a way of capturing the perspectives of a wide range of HCWs in their own words about their experiences of the pandemic.

Methods

In an online survey distributed to all staff at 18 geographically dispersed NHS Trusts, we asked respondents, “Is there anything else you think we should know about your experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic?”. We used STM on 7,412 responses to identify topics, and thematic analysis on the resultant topics and text excerpts.

Results

We identified 33 topics, grouped into two domains, each containing four themes. Our findings emphasise: the deleterious effect of increased workloads, lack of PPE, inconsistent advice/guidance, and lack of autonomy; differing experiences of home working as negative/positive; and the benefits of supportive leadership and peers in ameliorating challenges. Themes varied by demographics and time: discussion of home working decreasing over time, while discussion of workplace challenges increased. Discussion of mental health was lowest between September-November 2020, between the first and second waves of COVID-19 in the UK.

Discussion

Our findings represent the most salient experiences of HCWs through the pandemic. STM enabled statistical examination of how the qualitative themes raised differed according to participant characteristics. This relatively underutilised methodology in healthcare research can provide more nuanced, yet generalisable, evidence than that available via surveys or small interview studies, and should be used in future research.
SARS-CoV-2 infection of human brain microvascular endothelial cells leads to inflammatory activation through NF-κB non-canonical pathway and mitochondrial remodeling
Authors: Torices Silvia , Motta Carolline Soares , da Rosa Barbara Gomes , Marcos Anne Caroline , Alvarez-Rosa Liandra , Siqueira Michele , Moreno-Rodriguez Thaidy , Matos Aline , Caetano Braulia , Martins Jessica , Gladulich Luis , Loiola Erick , Bagshaw Olivia RM , Stuart Jeffrey A. , Siqueira Marilda M. , Stipursky Joice , Toborek Michal , Adesse Daniel
Published: June 2022

Neurological effects of COVID-19 and long-COVID-19 as well as neuroinvasion by SARS-CoV-2 still pose several questions and are of both clinical and scientific relevance. We described the cellular and molecular effects of the human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs)in vitroinfection by SARS-CoV-2 to understand the underlying mechanisms of viral transmigration through the Blood-Brain Barrier. Despite the low to non-productive viral replication, SARS-CoV-2-infected cultures displayed increased apoptotic cell death and tight junction protein expression and immunolocalization. Transcriptomic profiling of infected cultures revealed endothelial activation via NF-κB non-canonical pathway, including RELB overexpression, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 led to altered secretion of key angiogenic factors and to significant changes in mitochondrial dynamics, with increased mitofusin-2 expression and increased mitochondrial networks. Endothelial activation and remodeling can further contribute to neuroinflammatory processes and lead to further BBB permeability in COVID-19.
Darting across space and time: parametric modulators of sex-biased conditioned fear responses
Authors: Mitchell Julia R. , Trettel Sean G. , Li Anna J. , Wasielewski Sierra , Huckleberry Kylie A. , Fanikos Michaela , Golden Emily , Laine Mikaela A. , Shansky Rebecca M.
Published: June 2022

Pavlovian fear conditioning is a widely used behavioral paradigm for studying associative learning in rodents. Despite early recognition that subjects may engage in a variety of both conditioned and unconditioned responses, the last several decades have seen the field narrow its focus to measure freezing as the sole indicator of conditioned fear. We previously reported that female rats were more likely than males to engage in darting, an escape-like conditioned response that is associated with heightened shock reactivity. To determine how experimental parameters contribute to the frequency of darting in both males and females, we manipulated factors such as chamber size, shock intensity, and number of trials. To better capture fear-related behavioral repertoires in our animals, we developed ScaredyRat, an open-source custom Python tool that analyzes Noldus Ethovision-generated raw data files to identify darters and quantify both conditioned and unconditioned responses. We found that, like freezing, conditioned darting occurrences scale with experimental alterations. While most darting occurs in females, we found that with an extended training protocol, darting can emerge in males as well. Collectively, our data suggest that darting reflects a behavioral switch in conditioned responding that is a product of an individual animal's sex, shock reactivity, and experimental parameters, underscoring the need for careful consideration of sex as a biological variable in classic learning paradigms.
Subsampling of cues in associative learning
Authors: Perez Omar D. , Vogel Edgar H. , Narasiwodeyar Sanjay , Soto Fabian A.
Published: June 2022

Theories of learning distinguish between elemental and configural stimulus processing depending on whether stimuli are processed independently or as whole configurations. Evidence for elemental processing comes from findings of summation in animals where a compound of two dissimilar stimuli is deemed to be more predictive than each stimulus alone, whereas configural processing is supported by experiments using similar stimuli in which summation is not found. However, in humans the summation effect is robust and impervious to similarity manipulations. In three experiments in human predictive learning, we show that summation can be obliterated when partially reinforced cues are added to the summands in training and tests. This lack of summation only holds when the partially reinforced cues are similar to the reinforced cues (experiment 1) and seems to depend on participants sampling only the most salient cue in each trial (experiments 2a and 2b) in a sequential visual search process. Instead of attributing our and others’ instances of lack of summation to the customary idea of configural processing, we offer a formal subsampling rule that might be applied to situations in which the stimuli are hard to parse from each other.
Enhancing innovation through gender diversity: a two-country study of top management teams
Authors: Hemmert Martin , Cho Cecile K. , Lee Ji Young
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Building on upper echelons theory, the authors advance the literature on the influence of diversity on innovation by studying the link between top management team (TMT) gender diversity and innovation performance and the link's boundary conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyze survey data from 390 manufacturing establishments in Germany and India through an ordinary least square (OLS) regression analysis.

Findings

TMT gender diversity is positively related to innovation performance. The influence of gender diversity on innovation performance is not strengthened by team level attributes, including cognitive proficiency and openness to external information. In contrast, TMT gender diversity enhances innovation performance more strongly in Germany than in India, indicating the relevance of country-level cultural norms for leveraging gender diversity.

Research limitations/implications

The authors' study is built on data from two countries only, based on TMTs in the manufacturing sector and cross-sectional. Future studies may address these limitations by considering more countries, examining TMTs in the service sector and applying experimental or longitudinal research designs.

Practical implications

Executives should establish gender diverse TMTs to enhance innovation performance and leverage diverse views of male and female managers effectively. Managers located in countries with strongly hierarchical cultural norms should promote egalitarian values at the organizational level to increase the effectiveness of gender diverse TMTs.

Originality/value

This is the first study which examines the moderating effect of country-level cultural norms on the relationship between TMT gender diversity and innovation performance.
Citizen behaviors, enterprise social media and firm performance
Authors: Caya Olivier , Mosconi Elaine
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The goal of this study is twofold: first, it seeks to investigate how enterprise social media (ESM) usage contributes to firm performance, especially through operational performance metrics; second, to identify the ESM users’ behaviors that help to improve firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretive case study of a medium-sized manufacturing company in the food industry. After developing a theoretical framework, an exploratory research was undertaken about the use of an ESM. Qualitative methods were adopted for data collection and analytic induction for data analysis, using structural and descriptive coding. A series of semi-structured interviews with senior managers and middle-managers were conducted. Operations performance metrics were also assessed through documentary analysis before and after the implementation of the ESM.

Findings

The study integrates concepts and theories from across three main fields of research, namely organizational behaviors, management and information systems. It complements the extant research on ESM by providing a new theoretical framework that connects ESM use with firm performance. Empirical findings suggest that ESM contributes to firm performance through social capital development fostered by organizational citizenship behaviors. The emergence of leadership development has been also observed.

Research limitations/implications

The exploratory nature of the study combined with the fact that it has been conducted within a single organization greatly limits the generalization of the findings.

Practical implications

Managers can use the findings of this study as a support of a successful ESM implementation. Besides, it provides references for practitioners aiming to use and evaluate ESM and their corresponding citizenship behaviors within a manufacturing milieu.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to bring a multi-disciplinary perspective of the contribution of ESM usage on firm performance-based in a social capital enacted by organizational citizenship behaviors. These understandings add new insights to the literature and establish new theoretical connections between organizational citizenship behaviors, ESM use and social capital that also allowed to emerge leadership development.
The role of public–private coordination: the case of sweet cherries in Argentina 2000–2020
Authors: Jaureguiberry Florencia , Tappata Mariano
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the sustained growth of sweet cherry exports in recent years in Argentina and to what extent the coordination mechanisms between public and private institutions can explain the growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method used in the paper is descriptive and based on in-depth interviews with producers, agencies and institutions from the cherry industry. Qualitative results are complemented with analysis of key market data.

Findings

The sweet cherry industry in Argentina underwent a shake up with entry of new vertically integrated players and the technological upgrade of traditional producers that resulted in an export boom. The transformation of the industry was induced by the global market conditions and, more importantly, the promotion and complementarities achieved through a strong public–private partnership. Despite the constant increase in global demand for counter-season cherries, exports from Argentina are currently struggling to sustain growth. Among various bottlenecks, the authors find the instability of government policies (e.g. labor law, tax system, economic and trade policies) as the main cause for the slowdown in investment and expansion of the planted area.

Research limitations/implications

The paper highlights the importance of understanding the growth process of an industry and the different ways in which public and private sectors can enhance export performance. The relationship between the success of private–public partnerships and the particular configuration and characteristics of the industry deserve further study. The usual limitations from single-case studies apply.

Originality/value

The study has two contributions. First, the study uncovers the economics underlying the development and configuration of the sweet cherry industry in Argentina. Second, the study documents a successful case of private–public partnership to boost exports and reach new markets.
Perspectives of pumpkin pulp and pumpkin shell and seeds uses as ingredients in food formulation
Authors: Villamil Ruby-Alejandra , Escobar Natalia , Romero Laura Natalia , Huesa Ribka , Plazas Anny Valentina , Gutiérrez Carina , Robelto Gloria Elizabeth
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study the use of pumpkin pulp and its by-products in food formulation. Pumpkins are important and useful in the food industry. However, only the pulp is used, and the shell and seeds are wasted, which represents an important food waste.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review was performed by searching electronic databases relating to the physicochemical, textural and sensory effects of the pumpkin pulp and its by-products’ incorporation into foods. No human subjects were involved, and ethical approval was not required.

Findings

Pumpkin seeds and shell have been included in quite a variety of products. The primary effects on the physicochemical properties of bakery products, dairy products, beverages and snacks are the increase in energy, protein, iron, calcium, carotene content and textural properties (hardness, chewiness, snapping force and viscosity).

Research limitations/implications

Limitations comprise the heterogeneity of the studies included, which causes varied results.

Originality/value

It was evidenced that pumpkin is already included in food products, especially in bakery products. However, there are not many products where the shell and seeds are used. Therefore, it is a field to be explored, as these by-products have great potential both to enrich food products and to reduce food waste contributing to sustainability.
Opportunities and barriers: social studies in the absence of mandated curriculum
Authors: Huck Adam
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study sought to identify teachers' overall experiences in teaching social studies, the considerations they make in planning and implementing social studies lessons in the absence of mandated curriculum, approaches to social studies instruction and the role of legislation on social studies instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

Two practicing teachers at different grade levels participated in this study to allow for comparative case study analysis. Teachers were observed teaching social studies lessons and then were interviewed to gain an understanding of their perspectives on teaching social studies at the elementary level and the role that administrative and legislative messaging played in their decision-making.

Findings

The lack of a scripted and formal program for social studies created opportunities for teacher autonomy and content integration in lessons. This is especially true for teachers that place a high value on social studies content and skills. Persistent issues, such as limited time and mandated testing pressures, continue to create barriers that teachers must work to overcome.

Originality/value

Since teachers play a critical role in the enactment of policy and curriculum, when a formal curriculum program is absent, opportunities arise. Control of the classroom and inherent messaging therein continues to create a high value battleground. When teachers are given the autonomy to set lesson outcomes, opportunities for quality instruction, such as project based learning and content integration, are possible.
Sensory approaches in psychiatric units: Patterns and influences of use in one Australian health region
Authors: Wright Lisa , Meredith Pamela , Bennett Sally
Published: June 2022

Background/aim

Australian guidelines and policies recommend the use of sensory approaches in mental health care. Nevertheless, many Australian psychiatric units report difficulty sustaining these approaches. To inform efforts to close the gap between recommendations and practice, the aim of this study was to understand the patterns of use of sensory approaches and what demographic and clinical factors influence their use, across one health region in Queensland, Australia.

Methods

Using a cross‐sectional survey design, a custom‐designed questionnaire was distributed via email and in paper form to health professionals and peer support workers working in acute, secure, and community care psychiatric units across one health region. Information on demographics and the use of various sensory interventions was gathered utilising both open‐ended and Likert scale questions.

Results

Useable questionnaires were collected from 183 participants from various disciplines (77% nursing). The majority reported using sensory approaches with a limited number of consumers, and almost 9% never used the approach. Activity‐based sensory interventions and sensory equipment were most often used, whereas sensory assessments, sensory plans, and sensory groups were least used. Sensory interventions were mainly used to reduce consumer anxiety and agitation and to assist with emotional regulation. Factors positively correlated with frequency of use for all interventions were discipline (occupational therapy); working in an acute inpatient unit; and training in sensory approaches. Age was negatively correlated with frequency of use only for weighted modalities.

Conclusions

This study revealed that sensory approaches were used by most staff though with a limited proportion of consumers in psychiatric units in one large metropolitan health service. It provides insights into the factors influencing frequency of use, highlighting the importance of training in sensory approaches and access to occupational therapists. With this knowledge, we can work towards closing the gap between recommendations and the practice of sensory approaches.
Elevated IL‐23 in skin promotes IL‐23 derived Th17 responses in leprosy patients
Authors: Shi Chao , Ma Shanshan , Bai Jinxia , Liu Yan , Ma Yuelong , Lu Xinyuan , Zhu Jianyu , Yang Degang
Published: June 2022

Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by non‐cultivable bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. Th17 cells play vital roles during pathogenesis of leprosy reactions and IL‐23 is involved in Th17 cell differentiation. Although previous studies have reported the participation of IL‐23 in leprosy patients in peripheral blood, the role of this cytokine in skin has not yet been described for the disease. In this study, we first evaluated IL‐23 expression in the skin of patients with leprosy. Data showed that in keratinocytes, endothelial cells, and macrophages, IL‐23 expression was markedly higher in patients compared to that in the normal skin controls. Also, leprosy patients presented higher percentage of IL‐17A‐producing IL‐23R + CD4 T cells than healthy donors. IL‐23R blocking induced markedly downregulated IL‐17A secretion in leprosy patients but not in healthy donors. Furthermore, TGF‐β expression was significantly elevated after IL‐23R blocking. Overall, this study establishes that Th17 cells produce IL‐17A in an IL‐23 dependent manner in the skin of leprosy patients and provides more focused treatment strategies for Mycobacterium leprae.
Vulnerable employment in developing economies: The case of sub‐Saharan African countries
Authors: Erkul Abdullah , Külünk İbrahim
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the development of vulnerable employment in 43 sub‐Saharan African countries by using yearly data for 1996–2018 period. The paper first outlines the main factors and discusses the issue from the perspective of developing countries, and then constructs a panel data elasticity model. The model expands the economic growth framework further and assesses the effects of rurality, sectoral composition, demography, and the quality of economic and political institutions. Prais–Winsten robust estimation results for the expanded model show nonindustrial employment to be the main source of vulnerable employment. Additionally, the increase in urban population share is found to have a positive impact, while nonemployed population is negatively associated. The results also show that upper‐middle income countries differ from low and lower‐middle income groups with regard to the significance of economic and political institutions. These findings clarify the prominence of the Sustainable Development Goals policy agenda and gradual reform strategies beginning with economic quality toward improvement of political institutions. At the end, we highlight several policy implications.
Ferulic acid‐ and gallic ester‐acylated pectin: Preparation and characterization
Authors: Chen Ping , Wang Pengkai , Hong Pengzhi
Published: June 2022

In this study, pectin was modified with ferulic acid (Fa), trans‐ferulic acid (trans‐Fa), methyl gallate (MG), and ethyl gallate (EG) via the enzymatic method using aqueous/organic phases to enhance its physiochemical and bio‐active properties. Results revealed that lipase might catalyze the hydrolysis of the ester bond within pectin in aqueous phase and prompt the transesterification between the hydroxyl group in the para position in Fa/trans‐Fa or the 2′‐OH group of MG/EG and the carboxylic group of pectin in the organic phase. The graft ratio was 21.00%, 21.67%, 13.24%, and 11.93% for the Fa‐, trans‐Fa‐, MG‐, and EG‐modified pectin, respectively. In addition, compared with native pectin, the modified pectin exhibited improved apparent viscosity and emulsion activity. Moreover, the clearance of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl hydrazine (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonate) (ABTS) was effectively enhanced for the modified pectin. Furthermore, the modified pectin exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus while no cytotoxic effects based on the results of cell culture experiments. Our results provide a theoretical basis for the expansion of pectin applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Changes in temporal sensory profile, liking, satiety, and postconsumption attributes of yogurt with natural sweeteners
Authors: Chadha Diksha , Hamid Nazimah , Kantono Kevin , Marsan Manon
Published: June 2022

Sweetened yogurts can contain between 10 and 13% added sugar. However, studies have shown that sugar reduction or replacement can influence yogurt quality. The main objective of this research was to investigate the effects of yogurt with added natural sweeteners on temporal sensory profile, liking, satiety and postconsumption measures. Yogurt samples were prepared with iso‐sweet concentrations of sucrose (9 g/100 g of plain yogurt) using xylitol (10 g/100 g), stevia (0.15 g/100 g), and monk fruit (0.15 g/100 g). Fifty panelists evaluated the temporal sensory profile of these yogurts using multiple‐intake temporal dominance of sensations (TDS), and overall liking for each intake. In addition, satiety (hunger, thirst, and fullness) and other postconsumption attributes (healthiness, satisfaction, and purchase intent) were determined. The temporal profile of yogurt sweetened with xylitol was similar to yogurt sweetened with sucrose without any onset of negative sensory characteristics at any point in intake. Yogurt sweetened with stevia had a high dominance duration for astringency. Moreover, yogurt sweetened with monk fruit showed increased dominance of attributes bitter and astringent from the first to third intake. In terms of liking, yogurt containing xylitol was scored the highest followed by stevia and monkfruit. Sweet was a positive temporal driver of liking in yogurt sweetened with monk fruit. However, mouthcoating, sweet, and sour decreased liking in yogurt sweetened with sucrose, xylitol, and stevia respectively. In terms of perceived healthiness, satisfaction and purchase intent, yogurt sweetened with sucrose scored the highest followed by xylitol. Consumption of yogurt sweetened with xylitol, stevia, or monk fruit significantly decreased hunger compared to yogurt sweetened with sucrose.

Practical Application

The current findings will play an important role for the dairy industry in understanding how sugar replacement with natural sweeteners in yogurt can influence its sensory perception and postconsumption behavior.
Neuroprotective effects of Canagliflozin: Lessons from aged genetically diverse UM‐HET3 mice
Authors: Jayarathne Hashan S. M. , Debarba Lucas K. , Jaboro Jacob J. , Ginsburg Brett C. , Miller Richard A. , Sadagurski Marianna
Published: June 2022

The aging brain is characterized by progressive increases in neuroinflammation and central insulin resistance, which contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairment. Recently, the Interventions Testing Program demonstrated that the anti‐diabetes drug, Canagliflozin (Cana), a sodium‐glucose transporter 2 inhibitor, led to lower fasting glucose and improved glucose tolerance in both sexes, but extended median lifespan by 14% in male mice only. Here, we show that Cana treatment significantly improved central insulin sensitivity in the hypothalamus and the hippocampus of 30‐month‐old male mice. Aged males produce more robust neuroimmune responses than aged females. Remarkably, Cana‐treated male and female mice showed significant reductions in age‐associated hypothalamic gliosis with a decrease in inflammatory cytokine production by microglia. However, in the hippocampus, Cana reduced microgliosis and astrogliosis in males, but not in female mice. The decrease in microgliosis was partially correlated with reduced phosphorylation of S6 kinase in microglia of Cana‐treated aged male, but not female mice. Thus, Cana treatment improved insulin responsiveness in aged male mice. Furthermore, Cana treatment improved exploratory and locomotor activity of 30‐month‐old male but not female mice. Taken together, we demonstrate the sex‐specific neuroprotective effects of Cana treatment, suggesting its application for the potential treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Effects of piano music of different tempos on heart rate and autonomic nervous system during the recovery period after high‐intensity exercise
Authors: Xue Biyun , Wang Jiameng
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The present study attempted to explore the effects of different tempos of piano music on heart rate and autonomous nervous system during the recovery period after high‐intensity exercise. In addition, the study analyzed the influence of different tempos on the recovery period of athletes to devise methods for accelerating fatigue recovery through piano music.

Method

A total of 57 college students majoring in physical education were selected as experimental subjects and were divided into three groups, namely Lento group (n = 20), Moderato group (n = 20), and Allegretto group (n = 20; only 17 students completed the experiment).

Results

Under the same high‐intensity exercise regimen, the three groups did not differ significantly in the body composition, high‐intensity exercise ability, and time‐domain variation indices, namely heart rate (HR), heart rate variability index parameters (p > .05). The time‐domain variation analysis in the recovery period revealed significant differences in HR frequency domain indices among the groups exposed to different rhythms (p < .05).

Conclusion

Moderate‐tempo piano music was the most effective in facilitating HR and autonomic nervous system recovery during the recovery period.
Review article: obesity and colorectal cancer
Authors: Bardou Marc , Rouland Alexia , Martel Myriam , Loffroy Romaric , Barkun Alan N. , Chapelle Nicolas
Published: June 2022

Background

Obesity is a growing global public health problem. More than half the European and North American population is overweight or obese. Colon and rectum cancers are still the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide, and epidemiological data support an association between obesity and colorectal cancers (CRCs).

Aim

To review the literature on CRC epidemiology in obese subjects, assessing the effects of obesity, including childhood or maternal obesity, on CRC, diagnosis, management, and prognosis, and discussing targeted prophylactic measures.

Method

We searched PubMed for obesity/overweight/metabolic syndrome and CRC. Other key words included ‘staging’, ‘screening’, ‘treatment’, ‘weight loss’, ‘bariatric surgery’ and ‘chemotherapy’.

Results

In Europe, about 11% of CRCs are attributed to overweight and obesity. Epidemiological data suggest that obesity is associated with a 30%–70% increased risk of colon cancer in men, the association being less consistent in women. Visceral fat or abdominal obesity seems to be of greater concern than subcutaneous fat obesity, and any 1 kg/m2 increase in body mass index confers more risk (hazard ratio 1.03). Obesity might increase the likelihood of recurrence or mortality of the primary cancer and may affect initial management, including accurate staging. The risk maybe confounded by different factors, including lower adherence to organised CRC screening programmes. It is unclear whether bariatric surgery helps reduce rectal cancer risk.

Conclusions

Despite a growing body of evidence linking obesity to CRC, many questions remain unanswered, including whether we should screen patients with obesity earlier or propose prophylactic bariatric surgery for certain patients with obesity.