bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Gastrointestinal Symptoms Are Associated With Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Singh Komal P. , Kober Kord M. , Ernst Brenda , Sachdev Jasgit , Brewer Melanie , Zhu Qiyun , Gu Haiwei , Melisko Michele , Paul Steven M. , Cooper Bruce A. , Hammer Marilyn , Conley Yvette P. , Levine Jon D. , Miaskowski Christine
Published: June 2021

Background

Unrelieved chemotherapy-induced nausea (CIN) is a significant problem for patients with breast cancer (BC).

Objective

In a sample of patients with BC who were assessed before their second or third cycle of chemotherapy, study purposes were to evaluate for the occurrence, severity, frequency, and distress associated with CIN; evaluate for differences in demographic and clinical characteristics and gastrointestinal (GI) symptom occurrence rates between patients who did and did not report CIN; and determine which demographic, clinical, and symptom characteristics were associated with the occurrence of CIN.

Methods

Patients completed demographic and clinical questionnaires and the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale for nausea and common GI symptom assessments. Univariate analyses evaluated for differences in demographic and clinical characteristics and GI symptom occurrence between patients who did and did not report CIN. Multiple logistic regression analysis evaluated for characteristics associated with CIN.

Results

Of the 532 patients with BC, 47.2% reported CIN occurrence. Characteristics associated with CIN group membership were poorer functional status, receipt of chemotherapy on a 14-day cycle, and higher occurrence rates of 5 GI symptoms (ie, dry mouth, vomiting, constipation, change in the way food tastes, and lack of appetite; all P < .001).

Conclusions

Unrelieved CIN is a common symptom in patients with BC. This study is the first to demonstrate that 5 co-occurring GI symptoms were associated with CIN occurrence.

Implications for Practice

This study identified new risk factors for CIN occurrence in patients with BC. Clinicians may be able to initiate additional interventions to alleviate CIN.
“When Will I Feel Normal?”
Authors: Currin-McCulloch Jennifer , Kaushik Shivani , Jones Barbara
Published: June 2021

Background

The diagnosis of an advanced cancer during young adulthood frequently entails the loss of confidence in physical function, as well as the certainty of achieving future social, vocational, and existential aspirations. These losses leave young adults with tenuous holds on facets of their life that foster hope and meaning.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the unique physical and psychosocial-spiritual losses and patterns of grief responses among young adults living with advanced cancer.

Interventions/Methods

Theoretical sampling led to the recruitment of 13 young adults, ages 23 to 38 years, diagnosed with stage III or IV cancer. Participants completed 1 semistructured interview, a timeline of pivotal moments throughout their illness, and a sociodemographic survey. Glaser’s grounded theory methods informed the study design and analysis.

Results

Young adults displayed patterns of disorienting grief, which left them bereft of almost all familiar facets of their pretrauma lives and identities. Disorienting physical and psychosocial-spiritual losses presented in the following subcategories: disorientation to all aspects of former life, lost identity, and isolation.

Conclusions

Findings from this study reveal a novel framework from which to interpret grief experiences among young adults living with advanced cancer.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The implementation of grief assessments and interventions during pivotal stages in young adults’ cancer treatment and recovery may ameliorate psychological distress and normalize perceptions of life disruptions. Nursing education before treatment initiation and termination can reduce young adults’ fears surrounding unfamiliar symptoms and prepare them for the physical and emotional uncertainties that often accompany remission or end-of-life.
A Web-Based Nursing Education for Thermoregulation
Authors: Gest Carri D.
Published: June 2021

Neonatal nurses provide essential care in the hospital setting for improving infants’ morbidity and mortality outcomes by preventing hypothermia after delivery. This quality improvement project describes the development and implementation of a web-based educational activity, demonstrating that online education effectively increases nurse knowledge and commitment to thermoregulation practices. A learning management system provides nursing professional development practitioners an effective method of improving nursing knowledge using a web-based educational curriculum in the clinical setting.
18F-Fluciclovine–Avid Reactive Axillary Lymph Nodes After COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Wong Franklin C. , Martiniova Lucia , Masrani Avantika , Ravizzini Gregory C.
Published: June 2021

A 74-year-old man presenting with biochemical recurrent prostate cancer 9 months after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy underwent 18F-fluciclovine PET/CT for restaging to determine subsequent treatment strategy. Serum prostate-specific antigen was 0.7 ng/mL at the time of imaging. Images demonstrated foci of abnormal increased 18F-fluciclovine uptake corresponding to prominent round lymph nodes in the left axilla, some of which with fatty hila. Due to recent mRNA COVID-19 vaccination in the ipsilateral arm and the low likelihood of nodal metastases to the axilla from prostate cancer in this patient, the lymph nodes were considered to be benign, reactive to the vaccine.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Identifies Two Novel Rare Mutations in BMP5 and BMP2 in Monozygotic Twins With Microtia
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Qiushi , Guo Yanqing , Lin Lin , Yang Qinghua , Jiang Haiyue
Published: June 2021

Microtia is a rare congenital anomaly of the ear; it is regulated by both genetic and environmental factors. However, the mechanisms underlying its pathogenesis are unknown. In this study, the genomes of 2-year-old twin sisters with right microtia were sequenced using human genome-wide sequencing, an approach useful for identifying mutations in genes responsible for congenital microtia. The phenotypes of the twin sisters included congenital microtia on the right side, abnormal auricle shape in the right external ear, a peanut shape for the residual ear, and complete atresia of the right external auditory canal. In the twin sisters, we identified a previously unknown mutation in BMP5(exon4:c.833- 4C>G), as well as a new mutation (exon2:c.G332T:p.S111I) in BMP2, both of which were confirmed using polymerase chain reaction-based amplification of the corresponding genome regions, followed by first-generation sequencing. The exon4:c.833-4C>G mutation in human BMP5 may be the main cause of microtia in the twin sisters. A pathogenic mutation in human BMP2 (exon2:c.G332T:p.S111I) may be responsible for the facial deformity in the twin sisters. Thus, our study demonstrates the potential of genome-wide sequencing for identifying novel mutations associated with microtia on the whole-genome scale and extends the mutation spectrum of BMP5. Additionally, our data suggest that BMP2 is another pathogenic gene associated with microtia.
Surgical Management of Craniomaxillofacial Features in the Otopalatodigital Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Roland-Billecart Thomas , Schlund Matthias , Lauwers Ludovic , Nicot Romain , Ferri Joel
Published: June 2021

Otopalatodigital syndrome spectrum disorders are caused by Filamin A (FLNA) gene mutations. Otopalatodigital syndrome spectrum disorders are a group of rare congenital skeletal dysplasia, with specific craniomaxillofacial features including otopalatodigital syndrome type 1 and type 2, Melnick-Needles syndrome, frontometaphyseal dysplasia, terminal osseous dysplasia with pigmentary defects. The authors describe cases of a young girl with Melnick-Needles syndrome and a young boy with frontometaphyseal dysplasia treated in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department. Both patients had FLNA gene mutation confirmed with molecular genetic analysis. The authors proposed a 4 step treatment of the malformations with good outcomes both aesthetically and functionally, without complication.
Long-term Survival After Repair of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Is Improving Over Time: Nationwide Analysis During Twenty-four Years in Sweden (1994–2017)
Authors: D’Oria Mario , Gunnarsson Kim , Wanhainen Anders , Mani Kevin
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To investigate long-term survival after ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAA) repair in Sweden during twenty-four years (1994–2017).

Summary Background Data:

Management of rAAA has seen significant changes in the past decades, with the shifting from open (OAR) to endovascular (EVAR) being the most striking, thereby enabling treatment of elderly patients with multiple comorbidities.

Methods:

A registry-based nationwide cohort study was performed, and three 8-year periods (1994–2001, 2002–2009, 2010–2017) were compared for crude long-term survival with Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses. Relative survival compared to matched general population referents was estimated.

Results:

Overall, 8928 rAAA repair subjects were identified (1994–2001 N = 3368; 2002–2009 N = 3405; 2010–2017 N = 2155). The proportion of octogenarians (20.6%; 27.5%; 34.0%; P < 0.001), women (14.3%; 18.5%; 20.6%; P < 0.001), and EVAR procedures (1.5%; 14.9%; 35.5%; P < 0.001) increased over time. The crude 5-year survival was 36%; 44%; 43% (P < 0.0001). Multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis displayed a decreasing mortality hazard ratio (HR) over time (1.00; 0.80; 0.72; P < 0.001). Use of EVAR was associated with reduced hazards of crude long-term mortality (HR = 0.80, P < 0.001). Relative survival for patients surviving the perioperative period (ie, 90 days) was lower than matched general population referents, and was stable over time (relative 5-year survival: 86% vs 88%, vs 86% P <0.001).

Conclusions:

Nationwide analysis of long-term outcomes after repair of rAAA in Sweden during 24 years (1994–2017) has revealed that, despite changes in the baseline population characteristics as well as in the treatment strategy, long-term survival improved over time.
Association of Bariatric Surgery and Risk of Cancer in Patients With Morbid Obesity
Authors: Khalid Syed I. , Maasarani Samantha , Wiegmann Julia , Wiegmann Aaron L. , Becerra Adan Z. , Omotosho Philip , Torquati Alfonso
Published: June 2021

Objective:

This study investigates the rates of obesity-related cancers in patients undergoing vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), or no surgical intervention.

Summary Background Data:

Obesity has been previously associated with increased rates of cancers; however, weight loss surgeries have not been explored to demonstrate their potential risk reduction impact.

Methods:

Patients meeting bariatric eligibility criteria between January 2010 and December 2018 were identified. Exact 1:1:1 matching based on baseline patient demographics and comorbidities was used to create 3 groups with identical covariates: patients undergoing VSG, RYGB, and no surgery.

Results:

A total of 28, bariatric-eligible patients equally split into patients undergoing VSG (n = 9636, 33.3%), RYGB (n = 9636, 33.3%), and those with no surgical intervention (n = 9636, 33.3%). Bariatric-eligible patients that did not undergo surgical intervention had significantly higher rates and odds of developing numerous cancer types included in our study when compared to either surgical cohorts, with any cancer type (4.61%), uterine (0.86%), colorectal (0.57%), and lung cancers (0.50%) being most common. Individuals undergoing RYGB were significantly less likely to develop colorectal cancer compared to patients without any surgical intervention [odds ratio (OR) 0.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.30–0.75]. Additionally, those undergoing VSG were significantly less likely to develop lung cancer than the bariatric eligible no surgery cohort (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.25–0.70).

Conclusion:

Postoperative rates of any cancer type, lung, ovarian, and uterine cancer were significantly lower in obese patients undergoing either vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) or RYGB compared to bariatric-eligible patients without any surgical intervention.
Effects of a Self-Management Program for Patients With Colorectal Cancer and a Colostomy
Authors: Song Qin fen , Yin Guangxiao , Guo Xiaopeng , Lv Xue , Yu Keling , Liu Chune
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE:

We constructed a self-management program for rectal cancer survivors with colostomies and evaluated the effect of the program on self-efficacy, self-management ability, and incidence of stomal and peristomal complications.

DESIGN:

A prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING:

Participants were recruited from 4 proctology departments in a tertiary hospital in northeast China. Fifty-five were assigned to the intervention group and 56 were assigned to the control group; 26 were lost to follow-up. Therefore, data analysis was based on 43 participants in the intervention group and 42 in the control group.

METHODS:

Control group patients received the standard care where guidance and stoma care manuals were given the day before hospital discharge, and regular telephone follow-up twice a month for 3 months. Participants in the experimental group received, in addition to standard care, a self-management program delivered via a multimedia messaging app initiated after discharge available over a 6-week period. Primary outcomes were self-efficacy and self-management ability; we also analyzed the incidence of stomal and peristomal complications as a secondary outcome. Between-groups outcomes were analyzed via a repeated-measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS:

Analysis indicated intervention group participants had higher levels of self-efficacy and self-management of their colostomies than did control group participants. Analysis also revealed intervention group participants had a lower incidence of peristomal complications; no differences in the incidence of stomal complications were found.

CONCLUSIONS:

Study findings suggest that use of the multimedia messaging app-based self-management program enhanced self-efficacy and self-management, while reducing the incidence of peristomal complications in rectal cancer survivors with colostomies.
Solar simulated ultraviolet radiation inactivates HCoV-NL63 and SARS-CoV-2 coronaviruses at environmentally relevant doses
Authors: Wondrak Georg T. , Jandova Jana , Williams Spencer J. , Schenten Dominik
Published: June 2021

The germicidal properties of short wavelength ultraviolet C (UVC) light are well established and used to inactivate many viruses and other microbes. However, much less is known about germicidal effects of terrestrial solar UV light, confined exclusively to wavelengths in the UVA and UVB regions. Here, we have explored the sensitivity of the human coronaviruses HCoV-NL63 and SARS-CoV-2 to solar-simulated full spectrum ultraviolet light (sUV) delivered at environmentally relevant doses. First, HCoV-NL63 coronavirus inactivation by sUV-exposure was confirmed employing (i) viral plaque assays, (ii) RT-qPCR detection of viral genome replication, and (iii) infection-induced stress response gene expression array analysis. Next, a detailed dose-response relationship of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus inactivation by sUV was elucidated, suggesting a half maximal suppression of viral infectivity at low sUV doses. Likewise, extended sUV exposure of SARS-CoV-2 blocked cellular infection as revealed by plaque assay and stress response gene expression array analysis. Moreover, comparative (HCoV-NL63 versus SARS-CoV-2) single gene expression analysis by RT-qPCR confirmed that sUV exposure blocks coronavirus-induced redox, inflammatory, and proteotoxic stress responses. Based on our findings, we estimate that solar ground level full spectrum UV light impairs coronavirus infectivity at environmentally relevant doses. Given the urgency and global scale of the unfolding SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, these prototype data suggest feasibility of solar UV-induced viral inactivation, an observation deserving further molecular exploration in more relevant exposure models.
Effect of prophylactic use of intra-nasal oil formulations in the hamster model of Covid-19
Authors: Rizvi Zaigham Abbas , Tripathy Manas Ranjan , Sharma Nishant , Goswami Sandeep , Srikanth N , Sastry J L N , Mani Shailendra , Surjit Milan , Awasthi Amit , Dikshit Madhu
Published: June 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) infection initiates with viral entry in upper respiratory tract leading to coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). Severe Covid-19 is characterized by pulmonary pathologies associated with respiratory failure. Thus, therapeutics aimed at inhibiting entry of the virus or its internalization in the upper respiratory tract, are of interest. Herein, we report the prophylactic application of two intra-nasal formulations provided by the National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB), Anu oil and Til tailya in SARS-CoV2 infection hamster model. Prophylactic nasal instillation of these oil formulations exhibited reduced viral load in lungs, and resulted in reduced body weight loss and pneumonitis. In line with reduced viral load, histopathlogical analysis revealed a reduction in lung pathology in Anu oil group as compared to the control infected group. However, Til tailya group did not show a significant reduction in lung pathology. Furthermore, molecular analysis using mRNA expression profiling indicated reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines genes, including Th1 and Th17 cytokines for both the intra-nasal formulations as a result of decreased viral load. Together, the prophylactic intra-nasal application of Annu oil seems to be useful in limiting both the viral load and disease severity disease in SARS-CoV2 infection in hamster model.
Serum Neutralizing Activity of mRNA-1273 against SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Choi Angela , Koch Matthew , Wu Kai , Dixon Groves , Oestreicher Judy , Legault Holly , Stewart□Jones Guillaume B.E. , Colpitts Tonya , Pajon Rolando , Bennett Hamilton , Carfi Andrea , Edwards Darin K.
Published: June 2021

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants has led to growing concerns over increased transmissibility and the ability of some variants to partially escape immunity. Sera from participants immunized on a prime-boost schedule with the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine were tested for neutralizing activity against several SARS-CoV-2 variants, including variants of concern (VOCs) and variants of interest (VOIs), compared to neutralization of the wild-type SARS-CoV-2 virus (designated as D614G). Results showed minimal effects on neutralization titers against the B.1.1.7 (Alpha) variant (1.2-fold reduction compared with D614G); other VOCs such as B.1.351 (Beta, including B.1.351-v1, B.1.351-v2, and B.1.351-v3), B.1.617.2 (Delta), and P.1 (Gamma) showed decreased neutralization titers ranging from 2.1-fold to 8.4-fold reductions compared with D614G, although all remained susceptible to mRNA-1273–elicited serum neutralization.
Multiple levels of triggered factors and positive effect of cell-to-cell bottleneck in mutation repair of RNA viruses
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Yu Chengming , Geng Guowei , Su Chenyu , Yuan Xuefeng
Published: June 2021

Debilitating mutation in RNA viruses can be repaired via different mechanisms, while triggering factors of mutation repair were poorly understood. In this study, multiple levels of triggering factors of mutation repair was identified based on genetic damage of tRNA-like structure (TLS) in cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). TLS mutation in different RNAs of CMV distinctively impacted the pathogenicity and mutation repair. Relative quantity defect of RNA2 or quality defect of RNA3 resulting from TLS mutation was correlated with high rate of mutation repair, and TLS mutation of RNA1 failed to be repaired. However, TLS mutation of RNA1 can be repaired in the mixed inoculation with RNA2 having pre-termination mutation of 2b or at the low dose of original inoculation, especially around dilution end-point. Taken together, TLS mutation resulting into quality or quantity defect of viral genome or TLS mutation at low dose around dilution end-point was inclined to be repaired. In addition, different levels of mutation repair of TLS necessarily required the cell-to-cell movement, which implied the positive effect of cell-to-cell bottleneck on evolution of low-fitness virus, a phenomenon opposite to the Muller ratchet. This study provided important revelations on virus evolution and application of viral mild vaccine.

Author summary

Due to the low-fidelity of replicase, debilitating RNA viruses can be repaired through different mechanisms, which implied the resilience of RNA viruses. In this study, we identified multiple levels of triggered factors and occurrence occasion of mutation repair using the divided genome of CMV, which contained conserved cis-element tRNA-like structure (TLS) at the 3’end. TLS mutation of different RNA in CMV presented different rate of mutation repair from 0-80%. TLS mutation resulting into genomic quality or quantity defect or at low dose around dilution end-point was inclined to be repaired. However, all above types of mutation repair necessarily required cell-to-cell movement, which presented the positive effect of cell-to-cell bottleneck on virus evolution and increased fitness of low-fitness RNA viruses. It is an opposite phenomenon to the Muller ratchet, in which bottleneck always decreased the fitness of viruses. Except to identify the triggering factors of mutation repair in RNA viruses, this study also provided important revelations on creation and application of mild vaccine based on RNA viruses.
Radiolabeling of PSMA-617 with 89Zr: A Novel Use of DMSO for Radiochemical Yield Enhancement and Preliminary Small-Animal PET Results
Authors: Imura Ryota , Ozeki Atsuko Nakanishi , Shida Nanako , Kobayashi Mika , Ida Hiroyuki , Wada Youichiro , Akimitsu Nobuyoshi , Kumakura Yoshitaka
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted ligands, including PSMA-617, have been developed for theranostics of prostate cancer. 68Ga-PSMA-617 is the de facto standard of PSMA Positron Emission Tomography (PET) for imaging in prostate cancer patients prior to radioligand therapy (RLT) with 177Lu-PSMA-617. The dose-limiting toxicity for PSMA-RLT is damage to the kidney. PET scans using 68Ga-PSMA-617 have to be performed within a few hours of injection due to its short half-life (68 min). However, the presence of radioactivity in urine at the PET imaging timepoint hampers the dose optimization of 177Lu (half-life 6.6 d)-labeled PSMA-617. Thus, the long-lived positron emitter 89Zr (half-life 3.3 d) is suited for optimizing the doses of 177Lu-PSMA-617 because PET scans can be performed after excretion of radioactive urine. Although 89Zr has great potential for PET imaging, its inadequate incorporation into 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA), limits its applications. Here, we report the radiolabeling of PSMA-617 with 89Zr and preliminary PET imaging studies using 89Zr-PSMA-617.

Methods

DMSO and HEPES buffer were used to label PSMA-617 with 89Zr. The dissociation constant (Kd) of 89Zr-PSMA-617 was determined using a cell-binding assay. Delayed-PET scans using 89Zr-PSMA-617 were performed at 24 h (N = 5).

Results

89Zr-PSMA-617 was prepared with a radiochemical yield of 70 ± 9%. The Kd value was 6.8 nM. In PET imaging, standardized uptake value (SUV) was highest in LNCaP tumors (SUVmax = 0.98 ± 0.32), whereas it was low in kidney (SUVmax = 0.18 ± 0.7).

Conclusion

The preparation of 89Zr-PSMA-617 was achieved by using the DMSO and HEPES buffer. 89Zr-PSMA-617 visualize the PSMA positive LNCaP tumors without accumulation in bladder.

Advances in knowledge and implications for patient care

The use of 89Zr-PSMA-617 to predict the radiation doses in normal tissues lead to safe and effective RLT with 177Lu-PSMA-617.
Neuronal KGB-1 JNK MAPK signaling regulates the dauer developmental decision in response to environmental stress in C. elegans
Authors: Dogra Deepshikha , Kulalert Warakorn , Schroeder Frank C. , Kim Dennis H.
Published: June 2021

In response to stressful growth conditions of high population density, food scarcity and elevated temperature, young larvae of nematode Caenorhabditis elegans can enter a developmentally arrested stage called dauer that is characterized by dramatic anatomic and metabolic remodeling. Genetic analysis of dauer formation of C. elegans has served as an experimental paradigm for the identification and characterization of conserved neuroendocrine signaling pathways. Here, we report the identification and characterization of a conserved JNK-like mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway that is required for dauer formation in response to environmental stressors. We observed that loss-of-function mutations in the MLK-1-MEK-1-KGB-1 MAPK pathway suppress dauer entry. Loss-of-function mutation in the VHP-1 MAPK phosphatase, a known negative regulator of KGB-1 signaling, results in constitutive dauer formation which is dependent on the presence of dauer pheromone but independent of diminished food levels or elevated temperatures. Our data suggest that KGB-1 pathway acts in the sensory neurons, in parallel to established insulin and TGF-β signaling pathways, to transduce the dauer-inducing environmental cues of diminished food levels and elevated temperature.
A bifluorescent-based assay for the identification of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Chiem Kevin , Vasquez Desarey Morales , Silvas Jesus A. , Park Jun-Gyu , Piepenbrink Michael S. , Sourimant Julien , Lin Michelle J. , Greninger Alexander L. , Plemper Richard K. , Torrelles Jordi B. , Walter Mark R. , de la Torre Juan C. , Kobie James K. , Ye Chengjin , Martinez-Sobrido Luis
Published: June 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged at the end of 2019 and has been responsible for the still ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Prophylactic vaccines have been authorized by the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention of COVID-19. Identification of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) is important to assess vaccine protection efficacy, including their ability to protect against emerging SARS- CoV-2 variants of concern (VoC). Here we report the generation and use of a recombinant (r)SARS-CoV-2 USA/WA1/2020 (WA-1) strain expressing Venus and a rSARS-CoV-2 expressing mCherry and containing mutations K417N, E484K, and N501Y found in the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike (S) glycoprotein of the South African (SA) B.1.351 (beta, β) VoC, in bifluorescent-based assays to rapidly and accurately identify human monoclonal antibodies (hMAbs) able to neutralize both viral infections in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, our bifluorescent-based system accurately recapitulated findings observed using individual viruses. Moreover, fluorescent- expressing rSARS-CoV-2 and the parental wild-type (WT) rSARS-CoV-2 WA-1 had similar viral fitness in vitro, as well as similar virulence and pathogenicity in vivo in the K18 human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) transgenic mouse model of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We demonstrate that these new fluorescent-expressing rSARS- CoV-2 can be used in vitro and in vivo to easily identify hMAbs that simultaneously neutralize different SARS-CoV-2 strains, including VoC, for the rapid assessment of vaccine efficacy or the identification of prophylactic and/or therapeutic broadly NAbs for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
OJIP chlorophyll fluorescence induction profiles and plastoquinone binding affinity of the Photosystem II assembly intermediate PSII-I from Thermosynechococcus elongatus
Authors: Zabret Jure , Nowaczyk Marc M.
Published: June 2021

Binding of Psb28 to the photosystem II assembly intermediate PSII-I induces conformational changes to the PSII acceptor side that impact charge recombination and reduce the in situ production of singlet oxygen (Zabret et al. 2021, Nat. Plants 7, 524-538). A detailed fluorometric analysis of the PSII-I assembly intermediate compared with OEC-disrupted and Mn-depleted PSII complexes showed differences between their variable (OJIP) chlorophyll fluorescence induction profiles. These revealed a distinct destabilisation of the QA- state in the PSII-I assembly intermediate and inactivated PSII samples related to an increased rate of direct and safe charge recombination. Furthermore, inactivation or removal of the OEC increases the binding affinity for plastoquinone analogues like DCBQ to the different PSII complexes. These results might indicate a mechanism that further contributes to the protection of PSII during biogenesis or repair.
Selection and thermostability suggest G-quadruplexes are novel functional elements of the human genome
Authors: Guiblet Wilfried M. , DeGiorgio Michael , Cheng Xiaoheng , Chiaromonte Francesca , Eckert Kristin A. , Huang Yi-Fei , Makova Kateryna D.
Published: June 2021

Approximately 1% of the human genome has the ability to fold into G-quadruplexes (G4s)—noncanonical strand-specific DNA structures forming at G-rich motifs. G4s regulate several key cellular processes (e.g., transcription) and have been hypothesized to participate in others (e.g., firing of replication origins). Moreover, G4s differ in their thermostability, and this may affect their function. Yet, G4s may also hinder replication, transcription, and translation and may increase genome instability and mutation rates. Therefore, depending on their genomic location, thermostability, and functionality, G4 loci might evolve under different selective pressures, which has never been investigated. Here we conducted the first genome-wide analysis of G4 distribution, thermostability, and selection. We found an overrepresentation, high thermostability, and purifying selection for G4s within genic components in which they are expected to be functional—promoters, CpG islands, and 5′ and 3′ UTRs. A similar pattern was observed for G4s within replication origins, enhancers, eQTLs, and TAD boundary regions, strongly suggesting their functionality. In contrast, G4s on the nontranscribed strand of exons were underrepresented, were unstable, and evolved neutrally. In general, G4s on the nontranscribed strand of genic components had lower density and were less stable than those on the transcribed strand, suggesting that the former are avoided at the RNA level. Across the genome, purifying selection was stronger at stable G4s. Our results suggest that purifying selection preserves the sequences of functional G4s, whereas nonfunctional G4s are too costly to be tolerated in the genome. Thus, G4s are emerging as fundamental, functional genomic elements.
Multiobjective optimization of the LASER aircraft wing’s composite structural design
Authors: Ricci Juan Tamassia , Coimbra Rogerio Frauendorf Faria , Gomes Guilherme Ferreira
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Aircraft wings, one of the most important parts of an aircraft, have seen changes in its topological and design arrangement of both the internal structures and external shape during the past decades. This study, a numerical, aims to minimize the weight of multilaminate composite aerospace structures using multiobjective optimization.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology started with the determination of the requirements, both imposed by the certifying authority and those inherent to the light, aerobatic, simple, economic and robust (LASER) project. After defining the requirements, the loads that the aircraft would be subjected to during its operation were defined from the flight envelope considering finite element analysis. The design vector consists of material choice for each laminate of the structure (20 in total), ply number and lay-up sequence (respecting the manufacturing rules) and main spar position to obtain a lightweight and cheap structure, respecting the restrictions of stress, margins of safety, displacements and buckling.

Findings

The results obtained indicated a predominance of the use of carbon fiber. The predominant orientation found on the main spar flange was 0° with its location at 28% of the local chord, in the secondary and main web were ±45°, the skins also had the main orientation at ±45°.

Originality/value

The key innovations in this paper include the evaluation, development and optimization of a laminated composite structure applied to a LASER aircraft wings considering both structural performance and manufacturing costs in multiobjetive optimization. This paper is one of the most advanced investigations performed to composite LASER aircraft.
The relationship between autistic characteristics, social engagement and executive function in a typical sample
Authors: Robertson Nicolle , Qureshi Adam , Monk Rebecca L.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to represent a first attempt to examine in a non-clinical population the interplay between social engagement, executive function (EF) and theory of mind (ToM) within a social motivation theory framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 170 participants (135 female; mean age = 19.01 and standard deviation = 1.27) completed measures of ToM (Faux Pas task), autistic traits (Autism Spectrum Quotient), social engagement (reward dependence subscale of the Temperament and Character Inventory), sociability and EF (both subscales of the Adult Temperament Questionnaire).

Findings

Path analyses found that EF, sociability and social engagement were negatively associated with autistic traits both directly and indirectly. Results indicate that EF may impact sociability and social engagement and their interaction may relate to the degree of autistic traits shown in a typical sample. However, ToM (as measured by the Faux Pas test) was not related to any of the other variables.

Originality/value

Sociability, social engagement and effortful control deficits may be linked to higher levels of autistic traits. These factors appear to form a hierarchy of factors underpinning autism spectrum disorder, with EF contributing to all aspects, followed by sociability and social engagement at a higher level. Future research examining in clinical populations the utility of a more integrated model of social motivation that incorporates EF appears warranted.
The impact of digital image-based features on users' emotions and online behaviours in the food industry
Authors: Murtarelli Grazia , Romenti Stefania , Valentini Chiara
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Online images can convey sensory-based elements affecting digital users' emotions and digital engagement. The purpose of this study is to investigate which image-based features are more effective in conveying and stimulating particular emotions and engagement towards organizations operating in the food industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An online experimental survey was implemented. Two image-based features, narrativity and dynamism were chosen. The stimuli comprise four images, one with high and one with low level of narrativity, and one with high and one with low dynamism, published by a food company on its official Instagram account. Food-identity, emotional appeals and digital visual engagement behaviours were measured. A total of 141 students between 19 and 25 years old of a European University completed the questionnaire. Data was analysed through SPSS software using t-test analysis.

Findings

Results show that both narrativity and dynamism impact digital users' emotions and it was found to impact digital visual engagement attitude. Food involvement was measured in terms of food identity impact the effects of specific image-based features on emotions and visual engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on only two visual social semiotics features – narrativity and dynamism – and therefore, only partially captures the potentialities of images in digital communications.

Practical implications

This study provides professionals with empirical evidence and insights for effectively planning a visual social media strategy.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the stream of research in social media communications by investigating the visual social semiotic features of images published online by a food company.
Barriers to corporate social responsibility practices in construction and roles of education and government support
Authors: Pham Hai , Pham Tho , Dang Chau Ngoc
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to empirically investigate the impact of barriers (i.e. organizational and industrial barriers, corporate social responsibility (CSR) characteristics) on CSR practices and the roles of education and government support in mitigating these barriers. In addition, the positive effect of CSR practices on social sustainability performance (SSP) is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A framework of hypotheses between barriers, CSR practices and SSP is established. Using a survey questionnaire, empirical data are collected from 17 construction firms in Vietnam. PLS-SEM is used to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that organizational and industrial barriers negatively affect CSR practices. This study also finds that education and training and government support could enable construction firms to reduce the impact of such barriers.

Research limitations/implications

The data are collected in Vietnam; thereby the findings are only applicable in developing countries. Further research should also be conducted in other countries to improve the generalizability of the theoretical framework.

Practical implications

The findings of this study suggest that construction firms could apply several strategies (e.g. providing their employees with CSR training and education; embedding CSR into their firm policy, mission and vision) to mitigate the impact of CSR barriers and, accordingly, ensure the success of adopting CSR practices.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first efforts in the construction industry that empirically investigates the impact of barriers on CSR practices and the moderating effects of training and education as well as government support.
Stakeholders' impact on the leadership potential of small and medium-sized construction enterprises
Authors: Cai Xinyu , Gura Dmitry , Kurilova Anastasia
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to develop a methodological approach to assessing the impact of stakeholders on leadership potential of small and medium-sized construction enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology was based on taxonomic analysis to determine the coefficient of leadership potential in the following areas: financial growth of an enterprise, internal processes, human resources development and market potential. The examination process was grounded on the materials from small and medium-sized construction companies located in Russia and China.

Findings

Subgroups of companies with positive dynamics of indicators, an unstable situation and negative trends of leadership potential formation are identified. Russian small and medium-sized construction companies prioritize the development of sales policies and the management of internal business processes, while Chinese companies–human potential. The generated regression equations indicate a direct relationship between stakeholder engagement and the leadership potential of construction companies in both countries.

Originality/value

The scientific contribution of this study is the proposed methodological approach to assessing the development of the leadership potential of an enterprise and diagnosing the degree of stakeholders' influence on the latter. This is facilitated by comprehensive analysis, which includes an assessment of leadership potential based on the results of taxonomic analysis, construction of vector diagrams and regression analysis. This study can be useful for persons conducting research in the direction of small and medium-sized business management, forming a strategy for business development and competition policy to form a company's leadership position in the market.
The HEXACO, academic motivation and learning approaches: evidence from a central Asian country
Authors: Mahmood Monowar , Frolova Yuliya , Gupta Bhumika
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Personality traits are assumed to influence cognitive processes as well as academic motivation and learning approaches of the students. Based on these assumptions, the present study investigates the association of HEXACO personality traits with academic motivation as well as influence of those traits on students' learning approaches in educational contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Self-reported measures of personality orientation, academic motivation and learning approaches were obtained from 404 respondents in a classroom environment. The SPSS 20 software was used to conduct the correlations and the hierarchical regression analyses. The Eviews 10 software was used to develop the structural equation model to find the inter-relations among the study variables.

Findings

The findings reveal the influence of personality traits on academic motivation and learning approaches of the students. Among different personality traits, consciousness appeared to have highly positive impact on deep learning and intrinsic motivation of the studies. Neuroticism appeared to have most negative impact related to surface learning and amotivation of the learning contents.

Research limitations/implications

The findings validates the existence of HEXACO personality traits among the students in central Asian context. It future reiterated individual differences in learning strategies and learning motivation among the learners. The results may help academics and policy makers take appropriate measures to increase academic motivation and select appropriate learning approaches.

Originality/value

This is one of the pioneer studies to investigate the relationship between HEXACO personality traits, learning strategies and academic motivation. Validation of the HEXACO framework will help to understand students' personality in a more detailed and elaborative way and will contribute to the existing literature on personality and learning outcomes.
Making finance fun: the gamification of personal financial management apps
Authors: Bitrián Paula , Buil Isabel , Catalán Sara
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study integrates self-determination theory (SDT) and the technology acceptance model (TAM) to explore how gamification increases users' motivation and intention to use personal financial management (PFM) apps, and how it facilitates their adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 208 users of the Mint app were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results showed that gamifying PFM apps satisfies users' needs for competence and autonomy and enhances their autonomous motivation to use them. Users' motivation increases their perceptions of ease of use and usefulness of the apps and causes them to develop more favorable attitudes toward them. The findings also confirmed a relationship between users' attitudes toward PFM apps and the behavioral intention to use them.

Research limitations/implications

To investigate the generalizability of results, studies using other PFM apps would be useful. The cross-sectional nature of the research also limits its causal inference.

Practical implications

This research provides support for the use of gamification in PFM apps and offers suggestions that may help fintech companies and banks to persuade users to engage with their apps.

Originality/value

Although gamification is a trending topic, few studies have explored its use in the finance industry. Drawing on SDT and the TAM, this study extends previous research and adds new insights into the effects of gamification in this context.
Green HRM and nongreen outcomes: the mediating role of visionary leadership in Asia
Authors: Ismail Hussein , El Irani Miriam , Kertechian Kevin Sevag
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The main purpose of this study was to test whether green human resource management (GHRM) practices affect employee nongreen outcomes through the mediation of perceived visionary leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 144 Lebanese employees from the construction industry took part in this study. Multiple regression and bootstrapping methods were employed in the analysis of the data.

Findings

GHRM was found to influence organizational pride and organizational citizenship behavior positively via visionary leadership. The results highlight the importance of implementing GHRM as a strategy to achieve environmental sustainability and enhance employee behaviors.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to explore the impact of GHRM on nongreen work outcomes in Western Asia, particularly Lebanon, in addition to exploring the mediating role of visionary leadership in the relationship between GHRM and nongreen work outcomes.
Investigating efficiency of frontier stock markets using multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis
Authors: Aslam Faheem , Ferreira Paulo , Mohti Wahbeeah
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The investigation of the fractal nature of financial data has been growing in the literature. The purpose is to investigate the multifractal behavior of frontier markets using multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MFDFA).

Design/methodology/approach

This study used daily closing prices of nine frontier stock markets up to 31-Aug-2020. A preliminary analysis reveals that these markets exhibit fat tails and clustering patterns. For a more robust analysis, a combination of Seasonal and Trend Decomposition using Loess (STL) and MFDFA has been employed. The former method is used to decompose daily stock returns, where later detected the long rang dependence in the series.

Findings

The results confirm varying degree of multifractality in frontier stock markets, implying that they exhibit long-range dependence. Based on these multifractality levels, Serbian and Romanian stock markets are the ones exhibiting least long-range dependence, while Slovenian and Mauritius stock markets indicating highest dependence in their series. Furthermore, the markets of Kenya, Morocco, Romania and Serbia exhibit mean reversion (anti-persistent) behavior while the remaining frontier markets show persistent behaviors.

Practical implications

The information given by the detection of the fractal measure of data can support for investment and policymaking decisions.

Originality/value

Frontier markets are of great potential from the perspective of international diversification. However, most of the research focused on other emerging and developed markets, especially in the context of multifractal analysis. This study combines the STL method and a physics-based robust technique, MFDFA to detect the multifractal behavior of frontier stock markets.