bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paleolithic Gene Duplications Primed Adaptive Evolution of Human Amylase Locus Upon Agriculture
Authors: Yilmaz Feyza , Karageorgiou Charikleia , Kim Kwondo , Pajic Petar , Scheer Kendra ,   Human Genome Structural Variation Consortium, Beck Christine R. , Torregrossa Ann-Marie , Lee Charles , Gokcumen Omer
Published: November 2023

Starch digestion is a cornerstone of human nutrition. The amylase genes code for the starch-digesting amylase enzyme. Previous studies suggested that the salivary amylase (AMY1) gene copy number increased in response to agricultural diets. However, the lack of nucleotide resolution of the amylase locus hindered detailed evolutionary analyses. Here, we have resolved this locus at nucleotide resolution in 98 present-day humans and identified 30 distinct haplotypes, revealing that the coding sequences of all amylase gene copies are evolving under negative selection. The phylogenetic reconstruction suggested that haplotypes with three AMY1 gene copies, prevalent across all continents and constituting about 70% of observed haplotypes, originated before the out-of-Africa migrations of ancestral modern humans. Using thousands of unique 25 base pair sequences across the amylase locus, we showed that additional AMY1 gene copies existed in the genomes of four archaic hominin genomes, indicating that the initial duplication of this locus may have occurred as far back 800,000 years ago. We similarly analyzed 73 ancient human genomes dating from 300 - 45,000 years ago and found that the AMY1 copy number variation observed today existed long before the advent of agriculture (~10,000 years ago), predisposing this locus to adaptive increase in the frequency of higher amylase copy number with the spread of agriculture. Mechanistically, the common three-copy haplotypes seeded non-allelic homologous recombination events that appear to be occurring at one of the fastest rates seen for tandem repeats in the human genome. Our study provides a comprehensive population-level understanding of the genomic structure of the amylase locus, identifying the mechanisms and evolutionary history underlying its duplication and copy number variability in relation to the onset of agriculture.
Massively parallel sample preparation for multiplexed single-cell proteomics using nPOP
Authors: Leduc Andrew , Koury Luke , Cantlon Joshua , Slavov Nikolai
Published: November 2023

Single-cell proteomics by mass spectrometry (MS) allows quantifying proteins with high specificity and sensitivity. To increase its throughput, we developed nPOP, a method for parallel preparation of thousands of single cells in nanoliter volume droplets deposited on glass slides. Here, we describe its protocol with emphasis on its flexibility to prepare samples for different multiplexed MS methods. An implementation with plexDIA demonstrates accurate quantification of about 3,000 - 3,700 proteins per human cell. The protocol is implemented on the CellenONE instrument and uses readily available consumables, which should facilitate broad adoption. nPOP can be applied to all samples that can be processed to a single-cell suspension. It takes 1 or 2 days to prepare over 3,000 single cells. We provide metrics and software for quality control that can support the robust scaling of nPOP to higher plex reagents for achieving reliable high-throughput single-cell protein analysis.
MetaVision3D: Automated Framework for the Generation of Spatial Metabolome Atlas in 3D
Authors: Ma Xin , Shedlock Cameron J. , Medina Terrymar , Ribas Roberto A. , Clarke Harrison A. , Hawkinson Tara R. , Dande Praveen K. , Wu Lei , Burke Sara N. , Merritt Matthew E. , Vander Kooi Craig W. , Gentry Matthew S. , Yadav Nirbhay N. , Chen Li , Sun Ramon C.
Published: November 2023

High-resolution spatial imaging is transforming our understanding of foundational biology. Spatial metabolomics is an emerging field that enables the dissection of the complex metabolic landscape and heterogeneity from a thin tissue section. Currently, spatial metabolism highlights the remarkable complexity in two-dimensional space and is poised to be extended into the three-dimensional world of biology. Here, we introduce MetaVision3D, a novel pipeline driven by computer vision techniques for the transformation of serial 2D MALDI mass spectrometry imaging sections into a high-resolution 3D spatial metabolome. Our framework employs advanced algorithms for image registration, normalization, and interpolation to enable the integration of serial 2D tissue sections, thereby generating a comprehensive 3D model of unique diverse metabolites across host tissues at mesoscale. As a proof of principle, MetaVision3D was utilized to generate the mouse brain 3D metabolome atlas (available athttps://metavision3d.rc.ufl.edu/) as an interactive online database and web server to further advance brain metabolism and related research.
Social determinants of adult COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and uptake in a Brazilian urban informal community: a longitudinal time-to-event study
Authors: Dorión Murilo , Ticona Juan Pablo A. , Fofona Mariam O. , Lind Margaret L. , Nery Nivison , Victoriano Renato , do Aragão Filho Ananias S. , Reis Mitermayer G. , Costa Federico , Ko Albert I.
Published: November 2023

Residents of informal urban settlements have a high risk of COVID-19 exposure and have less access to medical care, making vaccine-driven prevention critical in this vulnerable population. Despite robust vaccination campaigns in Brazil, vaccine uptake and timing continue to be influenced by social factors and contribute to health disparities. To address this, we conducted a sequential survey in a cohort of 717 adults in an urbanfavelain Salvador, Brazil where participants were interviewed in 2020, before vaccines were rolled out, and in 2022, after primary and booster dose distribution. We collected data on demographics, social characteristics, and COVID-19 vaccination status and intent. Primary series uptake was high (91.10% for 1stdose and 94.74% for 2nddose among eligible); however, booster uptake was lower (63.51% of eligible population) at the time of the second interview, suggesting a decreasing interest in vaccination. To account for both vaccine refusal and delays, we conducted a Cox time-to-event analysis of dose uptake using sequential independent outcomes. Exposure times were determined by dose eligibility date to account for age and comorbidities. Intent to vaccinate in 2020 (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.54, CI: [1.05, 1.98]) and age (HR: 1.27, CI: [1.01, 2.08]) were associated with higher vaccination rates for the 1stdose. Males were less likely to receive the 1stdose (HR: 0.61, CI: [0.35, 0.83]), and, compared to catholics, 2nddose uptake was lower for those identifying with Pentecostalism (HR: 0.49, CI: [0.37, 0.66]) and without a religion (HR: 0.49, CI: [0.37, 0.66]), with the latter association disappearing after controlling by age. Risk perception was associated with 2nddose uptake (HR: 1.15, CI: [1.08, 1.26]). The role of sex and religion in vaccination behavior highlights the need for targeted outreach and interfacing with local organizations. The data offers lessons to build a long-term COVID-19 vaccination strategy beyond availability.
A Scoping Review of Privacy and Utility Metrics in Medical Synthetic Data
Authors: Kaabachi Bayrem , Despraz Jérémie , Meurers Thierry , Otte Karen , Halilovic Mehmed , Kulynych Bogdan , Prasser Fabian , Raisaro Jean Louis
Published: November 2023

The use of synthetic data is a promising solution to facilitate the sharing and reuse of health-related data beyond its initial collection while addressing privacy concerns. However, there is still no consensus on a standardized approach for systematically evaluating the privacy and utility of synthetic data, impeding its broader adoption. In this work, we present a comprehensive review and systematization of current methods for evaluating synthetic health-related data, focusing on both privacy and utility aspects. Our findings suggest that there are a variety of methods for assessing the utility of synthetic data, but no consensus on which method is optimal in which scenario. Moreover, we found that most studies included in this review do not evaluate the privacy protection provided by synthetic data, and those that do often significantly underestimate the risks.
DrosophilaNeuronal Glucose 6 Phosphatase is a Modulator of Neuropeptide Release that Regulates Muscle Glycogen Stores via FMRFamide Signaling
Authors: Miyamoto Tetsuya , Hedjazi Sheida , Miyamoto Chika , Amrein Hubert
Published: November 2023

Neuropeptides (NPs) and their cognate receptors are critical effectors of diverse physiological processes and behaviors. We recently reported of a non-canonical function of theDrosophila Glucose-6-Phosphatase(G6P) gene in a subset of neurosecretory cells in the CNS that governs systemic glucose homeostasis in food deprived flies. Here, we show thatG6Pexpressing neurons define 6 groups of neuropeptide secreting cells, 4 in the brain and 2 in the thoracic ganglion. Using the glucose homeostasis phenotype as a screening tool, we find that neurons located in the thoracic ganglion expressing FMRFamide neuropeptides (FMRFaG6Pneurons) are necessary and sufficient to maintain systemic glucose homeostasis in starved flies. We further show thatG6Pis essential inFMRFaG6Pneurons for attaining a prominent Golgi apparatus and secreting neuropeptides efficiently. Finally, we establish thatG6Pdependent FMRFa signaling is essential for the build-up of glycogen stores in the jump muscle which expresses the receptor for FMRFamides. We propose a general model in which the main role ofG6Pis to counteract glycolysis in peptidergic neurons for the purpose of optimizing the intracellular environment best suited for the expansion of the Golgi apparatus, boosting release of neuropeptides and enhancing signaling to respective target tissues expressing cognate receptors.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Glucose-6-phosphtase (G6P) is a critical enzyme in sugar synthesis and catalyzes the final step in glucose production. InDrosophila- and insects in general - where trehalose is the circulating sugar and Trehalose phosphate synthase, and not G6P, is used for sugar production, G6P has adopted a novel and unique role in peptidergic neurons in the CNS. Interestingly, flies lackingG6Pshow diminished Neuropeptide secretions and have a smaller Golgi apparatus in peptidergic neurons. It is hypothesized that the role of G6P is to counteract glycolysis, thereby creating a cellular environment that is more amenable to efficient neuropeptide secretion.
Together, Neuropilin 1 and Neuropilin 2 direct α5 integrin trafficking through GTPase-activating-protein p120RasGAP in endothelial cells to promote fibronectin fibrillogenesis
Authors: Benwell CJ , Johnson RT , Taylor JAGE , Lambert J , Robinson SD
Published: November 2023

Integrin trafficking to and from membrane adhesions is a crucial mechanism that dictates many aspects of a cell’s behaviour, including motility, polarisation, and invasion. In endothelial cells (ECs), the intracellular traffic of α5 integrin is regulated by both neuropilin 1 (NRP1) and neuropilin 2 (NRP2), yet the redundancies in function between these co-receptors remain unclear. Moreover, the endocytic complexes that participate in NRP-directed traffic remain poorly annotated. Using label-free quantitative mass spectrometry of α5 integrin associations in ECs we identify α5 trafficking pathways that depend on NRP1, NRP2, or both NRPs. We identify a trafficking pathway that depends on both NRPs: one that impinges on the GTPase-activating protein p120RasGAP. This pathway promotes the recycling of α5 integrin from early endosomes. Mechanistically, p120RasGAP enables transit of endocytosed α5 integrin-NRP1-NRP2 complexes to Rab11+recycling endosomes, promoting cell polarisation and fibronectin (FN) fibrillogenesis. Silencing of both NRP receptors, or p120RasGAP, results in the accumulation of α5 integrin in early endosomes, a loss of α5 integrin from surface adhesions, and attenuated EC polarisation. Importantly, endothelial-specific deletion of both NRP1 and NRP2 in the postnatal retina recapitulated ourin vitrofindings, severely impairing FN fibrillogenesis and polarised sprouting. Our data assign an essential role for p120RasGAP during integrin traffic in ECs and support a hypothesis that NRP receptors can co-traffic internalised cargoes.
FAM134B regulates ER-to-lysosome-associated degradation of misfolded proteins upon pharmacologic or genetic inactivation of ER-associated degradation
Authors: Fasana Elisa , Fregno Ilaria , Galli Carmela , Molinari Maurizio
Published: November 2023

About 40% of the eukaryotic cell’s proteome is synthesized and assembled in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Native proteins are transported to their intra- or extra-cellular site of activity. Folding-defective polypeptides are dislocated across the ER membrane into the cytoplasm, poly-ubiquitylated and degraded by 26S proteasomes (ER-associated degradation, ERAD). Large misfolded proteins like mutant forms of collagen or aggregation-prone mutant forms of alpha1 antitrypsin cannot be dislocated across the ER membrane for ERAD. Rather, they are segregated in ER subdomains that vesiculate and deliver their cargo to endolysosomal compartments for clearance by ER-to-lysosome-associated degradation (ERLAD). Here, we show the lysosomal delivery of a canonical ERAD substrate upon pharmacologic and genetic inhibition of the ERAD pathways. This highlights the surrogate intervention of ERLAD to remove defective gene products upon dysfunctional ERAD.
Identity expressiveness in marketing: review and future research agenda
Authors: Zhu Dandan , Michaelidou Nina , Dewsnap Belinda , Cadogan John W. , Christofi Michael
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to follow a rigorous approach to identify, critically analyze and synthesize 75 papers published from 2000 to 2022.

Design/methodology/approach

The study presents a systematic literature review on identity expressiveness (IE), clarifying and expanding what is currently known about the concept.

Findings

To synthesize current knowledge on IE, the study uses the overarching framework of antecedents-phenomenon-consequences, using this same framework to identify gaps and future research directions. The findings show individual and brand-related factors such as the need for uniqueness and anthropomorphism as antecedents of IE, and eWOM/WOM, impulse purchases and upgrading to more exclusive lines as consequences of IE.

Research limitations/implications

The study contributes to theory by synthesizing and mapping current understanding of the state of knowledge on the concept of IE while highlighting gaps in the extant literature and paving future research directions for scholars in the field.

Practical implications

The study offers useful insights for practitioners, broadening marketers’ actionable options in identity-based marketing. Marketers can use insights from this study to inform marketing strategy and communication campaigns for different types of brands.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind and offers an integrative review of the current literature on IE, thus enhancing understanding of the concept, its antecedents and consequences. The study also contributes to knowledge by highlighting future research priorities for researchers in this field of enquiry.
Does negativity matter under the principle-based approach? Evidence from narrative reporting in the UK
Authors: Bassyouny Hesham , Machokoto Michael
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the association between negative tone in annual report narratives and future performance in the UK context. Under the principle-based approach in the UK, managers tend to bias the tone of narrative reports upward, as the reporting regime is more flexible than the rule-based approach in the USA. Consequently, any negative disclosure not mandated by regulators conveys credible information about a firm’s prospects.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a sample of UK FTSE all-share non-financial companies from 2010 to 2019. The authors use the textual-analysis approach based on Loughran and McDonald (2011)’s wordlist (LM) to measure the negative tone in UK annual reports.

Findings

The results show a significant negative association between negative tone and future performance. Moreover, our further analyses suggest that only the negativity in the executive section of the annual disclosures correlates significantly with future performance. In summary, this study suggests that negativity does matter under the principle-based approach and can be used as an indicator of future performance.

Originality/value

In contrast to the literature arguing that only positivity has the power to affect a firm’s outcomes under the principle-based approach, the authors provide new empirical evidence suggesting that negativity also matters within the UK context and can be used as an indicator for future performance. Also, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to identify which section of the annual report is more informative about a firm’s future performance.
A proposed HAZOP based upgradation model for improvement in existing industrial practices: a geothermal energy industry case study
Authors: Pandey Vaishnavi , Sircar Anirbid , Yadav Kriti , Bist Namrata
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct a detailed analysis of the industrial practices currently being used in the geothermal energy industry and to determine whether they are contributing to any limitations. A HAZOP-based upgradation model for improvement in existing industrial practices is proposed to ensure the removal of inefficient conventional practices. The HAZOP-based upgradation model examines the setbacks, identifies its causes and consequences and suggests improvement methods comprising of modern-day technology.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposed a HAZOP-based upgradation model for improvement in existing industrial practices. The proposed HAZOP model identifies the drawbacks brought on by conventional practices and suggests improvements.

Findings

The study reviewed the challenges geothermal power plants currently face due to conventional practices and suggested a total of 22 upgradation recommendations. From those, a total of 11 upgradation modules comprising modern digital technology and Industry 4.0 elements were proposed to improve the existing practices in the geothermal energy industry. Autonomous robots, augmented reality, machine learning and Internet of Things were identified as useful methods for the upgradation of the existing geothermal energy system.

Research limitations/implications

If proposed recommendations are incorporated, the efficiency of geothermal energy generation will increase as cumulating setbacks will no longer degrade the work output.

Practical implications

The proposed recommendation by the study will make way for Industry 4.0 integration with the geothermal energy sector.

Originality/value

The paper uses a proposed HAZOP-based upgradation model to review issues in existing industrial practices of the geothermal energy sector and recommends solutions to overcome operability issues using Industry 4.0 technologies.
Do faculty members matter in corporate entrepreneurship in Kuwaiti higher education institutions?
Authors: Abidi Oualid , Nimer Khalil , Bani-Mustafa Ahmed , Toglaw Sam , Dzenopoljac Vladimir
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The adoption of an entrepreneurial posture supports higher education institutions (HEIs) in their quest for growth. The present study examines the role faculty members play in adopting an entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in HEIs within the Kuwaiti academic context and aims to assess whether this orientation contributes to fostering corporate entrepreneurship in their institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected to study the relationship between faculty EO and the EO of their respective HEI. Empirical research was conducted based on a questionnaire completed by 341 engineering and business faculty members employed at Kuwaiti universities and colleges. The research model was tested and validated using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Findings

The results show a positive relationship between the faculty EO and corporate entrepreneurship in HEIs, which was negatively moderated by human resource management (HRM) practices. These findings emphasise the need for HEIs in Kuwait to evolve their HRM practices towards enhancing innovation, proactiveness and risk-taking amongst faculty.

Originality/value

This study highlights the strategic renewal perspective in HEI-EO and how faculty initiatives can support it.
Emerging market analysis of passive and active investing under bear and bull market conditions
Authors: Gopane Thabo J. , Moyo Noel T. , Setaka Lesego F.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Stirred by scant regard for market phases in portfolio performance assessments, the current paper investigates the active versus passive investment strategies under the bull and bear market conditions in emerging markets focusing on South Africa as a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

Methodologically, the measures of Jensen's alpha and Treynor index are applied to the monthly returns of 20 funds from January 2010 to June 2022.

Findings

The results are enlightening; though they contradict developed market evidence, they are consistent with emerging market trends. The findings show that actively managed funds outperform the market benchmark and passive investing style under bear and normal market conditions. Passive investment strategy outperforms both market benchmark and actively investing style under bull market conditions.

Practical implications

In the face of improved market efficiency, increased liquidity and recent technological impact, the findings of this study have practical application. The study outcomes should inform and update global investors, especially asset managers interested in emerging markets; however, the limitations of the study should also be considered.

Originality/value

While limited studies consider market conditions when comparing and contrasting the performance of passive versus active investing, such consideration is lacking in emerging markets. The current study corrects this literature imbalance.
Exploring the missing link:Financial literacy and Cognitive biases in Investment Decisions
Authors: Ashfaq Muhammad , Shafique Attayah , Selezneva Viktoriia
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore and understand, how strong financial literacy influences the cognitive biases of students in Germany while investing. Second, it also evaluates the most influential cognitive biases that students encounter when undertaking their investment decisions within this environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach is used to assess the relationship between financial literacy and students’ investment-related cognitive biases by using the frameworks proposed by Clercq (2019) and Pompian (2012).

Findings

The results advocate that the students’ financial literacy positively impacts their cognitive biases within the investment process. It additionally revealed the most significant biases regarding students’ investment decision-making and proposed the possible reasons behind their behavioral distortions.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides a detailed review of the behavioral tendencies of the younger generation while investing and creates recommendations for prospective researchers.

Originality/value

This research lies at the junction of the behavioral finance field, suggesting that it assists in developing a theoretical framework of cognitive biases within students’ financial decisions. Furthermore, it serves as an addition to the financial management subject course that would provide valuable insights about, first and foremost, financial literacy and subsequently, the theory behind the investment process.
On 3D printed intelligent diaphragmatic hernia sensor
Authors: Singh Rupinder , Singh Gurwinder , Anand Arun
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design and manufacture an intelligent 3D printed sensor to monitor the re-occurrence of diaphragmatic hernia (DH; after surgery) in bovines as an Internet of Things (IOT)-based solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used in this study is based on a bibliographic analysis for the re-occurrence of DH in the bovine after surgery. Using SolidWorks and ANSYS, the computer-aided design model of the implant was 3D printed based on literature and discussions on surgical techniques with a veterinarian. To ensure the error-proof design, load test and strain–stress rate analyses with boundary distortion have been carried out for the implant sub-assembly.

Findings

An innovative IOT-based additive manufacturing solution has been presented for the construction of a mesh-type sensor (for the health monitoring of bovine after surgery).

Originality/value

An innovative mesh-type sensor has been fabricated by integration of metal and polymer 3D printing (comprising 17–4 precipitate hardened stainless steel and polyvinylidene fluoride-hydroxyapatite-chitosan) without sacrificing strength and specific absorption ratio value.
The silver lining of supply chain complexity: building supply chain resilience and robustness through exploitation and exploration
Authors: Iftikhar Anas , Ali Imran , Stevenson Mark
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to analyse whether the presence of supply chain complexity (SCC) influences firms to improve their supply chain (SC) resilience and SC robustness capability. This study also examines an important paradox: whether investing in both exploitation and exploration practices is conflicting or complementary to enabling SC resilience and robustness in the presence of SCC.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a survey-based approach to collect 242 useful responses from SC professionals of Pakistani firms, an important emerging economy context. The data were analysed with covariance-based structural equation modelling to statistically validate the model.

Findings

The analysis reveals several key findings: the presence of SCC has a direct, positive influence on SC resilience and SC robustness; while exploitation practices only partially mediate the nexus between SCC and SC resilience, they fully mediate the relationship between SCC and SC robustness; while exploration practices partially mediate the nexus between SCC and SC resilience, they do not mediate the relationship between SCC and SC robustness and SCC has a significant influence on SC resilience and SC robustness sequentially through exploitation and exploration (i.e. one after the other).

Practical implications

These findings help to reconcile the exploitation versus exploration paradox in cultivating SC resilience and SC robustness in the presence of SCC. The findings assist SC managers in determining how to deploy their limited resources most effectively to enhance SC resilience and SC robustness while facing SCC.

Originality/value

The authors devise and empirically validate a unique framework that demonstrates how the presence of SCC works as a stimulus to build SC resilience and SC robustness.
New treatment of pyoderma gangrenosum and hidradenitis suppurativa: A review
Authors: Yamanaka Keiichi
Published: November 2023

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are stubborn inflammatory skin diseases categorized as neutrophilic hypodermal dermatoses. These conditions exhibit connections with other autoinflammatory disorders driven by immune responses. Their pathogenesis is complex, rooted in significant imbalances in both innate and adaptive immune systems, particularly featuring elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1, IL‐8, IL‐17, and IL‐23. Studies involving skin tissue pathology and serology have indicated that targeting specific cytokines can bring therapeutic benefits. Indeed, many patients in clinical settings have responded positively to such interventions. Yet, given the diverse cytokines in play, focusing on a single one with antibody therapy might not always be effective. When resistance to biologics emerges, a combined approach targeting multiple overactive cytokines with immunosuppressants, for example cyclosporine and Janus kinase inhibitors, could be an option. In the current review, we explore recent therapeutic developments for PG and HS.
Role of neutrophils in cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Authors: Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: November 2023

There are various types of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), either with or without the association of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In some of the subtypes of cutaneous lupus, histopathology reveals neutrophil infiltration in the lesional skin; however, the significance of neutrophils in CLE is not yet fully elucidated. Recent studies have shown that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation by activated neutrophils is observed in several types of CLE, including lupus panniculitis, subacute lupus erythematosus, and acute lupus erythematosus, although the number of reports is small. Excessive NETosis, due to either increased NETs formation or defective clearance of NETs, may play a role in the induction of autoimmunity and autoantibody production in SLE, as well as endothelial damage, thrombus formation, and vascular damage in the lesional skin. CLE is an excessive interferon‐driven autoimmune disease. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells are located in lupus erythematosus skin and contribute to the etiology of skin lesions as a main producing cell of type I interferon. Neutrophils, monocytes, and keratinocytes also produce type I interferon via several triggers. Neutrophils play an important role in the innate immune response in SLE. In this review, several types of CLE with neutrophil infiltration, as well as the role of neutrophils are discussed.
Pulsed‐dye laser as an effective treatment for recalcitrant granulomatous rosacea and a potential regulator of CXCL9 expression
Authors: Maeng Ji Eun , Son Sun Woo , Lee Soo‐Jin , Kim Jin Cheol , Kim Seokhwi , Kang Hee Young , Park Young Joon
Published: November 2023

Granulomatous rosacea (GR) is a rare and distinct variant of rosacea. We report three cases of recalcitrant GR successfully treated with pulsed‐dye laser (PDL) and provide experimental evidence supporting its potential as a treatment option. PDL treatment demonstrated remarkable efficacy in the three clinical cases, despite their resistance to conventional therapies. Chemokine ligand 9 (CXCL9), a key chemokine involved in inflammation and granuloma formation, was found to be increased in skin sections from all three patients. In vitro experiments using human monocytes and dermal fibroblasts demonstrated that PDL treatment significantly reduced CXCL9 expression in fibroblasts. These findings suggest that PDL may modulate CXCL9 secretion in fibroblasts, potentially limiting the recruitment of immune cells to the lesion. Although further research is needed to fully understand the precise mechanisms underlying the role of CXCL9 in GR, PDL may be a promising therapeutic approach for refractory GR.
Favorable efficacy of S‐1 treatment for locoregionally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck region
Authors: Izumi Teruaki , Teramoto Yukiko , Kamimura Anna , Doi Reiichi , Takai Sayaka , Mori Tatsuhiko , Koizumi Shigeru , Kawahara Yu , Aitake Urara , Lei Xiaofeng , Inomata Naoko , Inafuku Kazuhiro , Nakamura Yasuhiro
Published: November 2023

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is usually treated with surgery; however, locoregionally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma can be difficult to resect. Although recent guidelines from Western countries recommend using anti–programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) antibodies, including cemiplimab and pembrolizumab, there are no approved anti–PD‐1 antibodies for locoregional cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in Asian countries. S‐1 is an oral drug with a low incidence of severe toxicity that can be used for head and neck cancers, including head and neck locoregional cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, in Japan. We retrospectively evaluated patients with head and neck locoregional cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma treated with S‐1 at two Japanese institutions (2008–2022). The initial dosage was determined by the body surface area (<1.25 m2: 80 mg/day, 1.25–1.5 m2: 100 mg/day, ≥1.5 m2: 120 mg/day) for 28 consecutive days. The outcome measures were objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Fourteen patients were included. The ORR was 78%, and the complete response (CR) rate was 64.3%. The median PFS and OS were not reached (NR) (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.9 months–NR) and NR (95% CI, 13.8 months–NR), respectively. The 12‐month PFS and OS rates were 51% and 85%, respectively. Six of the nine patients who achieved CR showed no recurrence during the follow‐up period (median follow‐up, 24.7 months). After CR, three patients experienced recurrence. Among these, two resumed S‐1 treatment and subsequently underwent salvage surgery, resulting in a sustained absence of recurrence. One patient developed lung metastasis and died, although S‐1 therapy was resumed. Only one patient (7.1%) developed grade 3 anemia. S‐1 showed favorable efficacy and low toxicity in patients with head and neck locoregionally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. S‐1 may be a good alternative to the anti–PD‐1 antibody for treating head and neck locoregionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma.
Landscape structure and farming management interacts to modulate pollination supply and crop production in blueberries
Authors: Ramírez‐Mejía Andrés F. , Blendinger Pedro G. , Woodcock Ben A. , Schmucki Reto , Escobar Lorena , Morton Richard Daniel , Vieli Lorena , Nunes‐Silva Patrícia , Lomáscolo Silvia B. , Morales Carolina Laura , Murúa Maureen , Agostini Kayna , Chacoff Natacha P.
Published: November 2023

Pollination services are affected by landscape context, farming management and pollinator community structure, all of which impact flower visitation rates, pollen deposition and final production. We studied these processes in Argentina for highbush blueberry crops, which depend on pollinators to produce marketable yields.

We studied how land cover and honeybee stocking influence the abundance of wild and managed pollinators in blueberry crops, using structural equation modelling to disentangle the cascading effects through which pollinators contribute to blueberry fruit number, size, nutritional content and overall yield.

All pollinator functional groups responded to landscape changes at a spatial scale under 1000 m, and the significance or direction of the effects were modulated by the field‐level deployment of honeybee hives.

Fruit diameter increased with pollen deposited, but decreased with honeybee abundance, which, had indirect effects on fruit acidity. Honeybees had a positive effect on the number of fruit produced by the plants and also benefited the overall yield (kg plant−1) through independent effects on both the quality and quantity components of fruit production.

Synthesis and applications. Deployment of beehives in blueberry fields can buffer, but not compensate for the negative effects on honeybee abundance produced by surrounding large scale none‐flowering crops. Such compensation would require high‐quality beehives by monitoring their health and strength. The contribution of honeybees to crop production is not equal across production metrics. That is, higher abundance of honeybees increases the number of berries produced but at the cost of smaller and more acidic fruits, potentially reducing their market value. Growers must consider this trade‐off between fruit quantity and quality when actively managing honeybee abundance.
Habitat fragmentation affects climate adaptation in a forest herb
Authors: Van Daele Frederik , Honnay Olivier , Janssens Steven , De Kort Hanne
Published: November 2023

Climate change and the resulting increased drought frequencies pose considerable threats to forest herb populations, particularly where additional environmental challenges jeopardize responses to selection. Specifically, habitat fragmentation may hamper climate adaptation by altering the distribution of adaptive genetic variation and may also induce evolutionary changes in mating systems.

To assess how habitat fragmentation disrupts climate adaptation, we conducted a common garden experiment with Primula elatior offspring originating from 24 populations sampled along a latitudinal gradient with varying climate and landscape characteristics. We then quantified a range of vegetative, regulatory and reproductive traits under distinct soil moisture regimes to evaluate imprints of local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity. Additionally, we conducted a more extensive field campaign in 60 populations along the same latitudinal gradient to evaluate the potential evolutionary breakdown of reciprocal herkogamy.

For large, connected populations, our results demonstrated an evolutionary shift from a strategy in southern populations that seems aligned with drought avoidance—where plants minimize their exposure to dry conditions and optimize photosynthesis—to a drought tolerance strategy in northern populations, where plants are adapted to function despite water scarcity. However, habitat fragmentation disrupted climate clines and the adaptive responses to drought stress in key traits related to growth, biomass allocation and water regulation. Additionally, our findings indicate the onset of evolutionary breakdown in reciprocal herkogamy and divergence in other key flower traits. The disruption of climate clines, drought responses and adaptations in mating systems contributed to a substantially diminished flowering investment across the distribution range, with the most pronounced effects observed in southern fragmented populations.

Synthesis. We present novel empirical evidence of how habitat fragmentation disrupts climate adaptation and drought tolerance in a wide range of traits along the range of the forest herb Primula elatior. These findings emphasize the need to account for habitat fragmentation while designing effective conservation strategies in order to preserve and restore resilient meta‐populations of forest herbs amidst ongoing global changes.
Evidence for antagonistic effects of climate change and exotic pathogens on regeneration of Mediterranean forests
Authors: Homet Pablo , Matías Luis , Godoy Oscar , Gómez‐Aparicio Lorena
Published: November 2023

Understanding the interactive effects of global change drivers on tree demography is fundamental for realistic predictions of future forest dynamics. Multiple studies have shown increasing drought and exotic pathogens to severely threaten forest persistence by increasing mortality and decreasing growth of adult trees. However, much less is known about their effects on regeneration, and how they might affect seedling performance in additive and non‐additive (synergistic or antagonistic) ways.

Here we aimed to fill this gap by experimentally exploring the effects of increasing drought and soil‐borne pathogens on tree regeneration in two types of mixed oak forests (Quercus suber‐Q. canariensis and Q. suber‐Olea europaea) invaded by the exotic soil‐borne oomycete Phytophthora cinnamomi, one of the most aggressive plant pathogens on earth. We conducted a seed sowing experiment with oomycete‐specific fungicide taking advantage of rainfall exclusion infrastructures that excluded 30% of the annual rainfall, simulating predictions of climate change models for Mediterranean systems. Seedling emergence, survival and growth of the three tree species were followed during 3 years.

We found that neutral or positive drought effects on regeneration dominated over negative effects in the tree community. Moreover, most positive drought effects on the dominant species (Q. suber) were not direct, but indirectly mediated by soil‐borne pathogens. This was shown by the fact that positive drought effects disappeared with fungicide application.

Synthesis: Overall, our results suggest that rainfall reductions predicted by climate change models for the Mediterranean region might have minor direct negative effects on early regeneration of tree species, but could play a major indirect role by limiting the negative effects of exotic pathogens on highly susceptible tree species. These findings highlight that antagonisms among global change drivers should be recognized as important forces that might slow down the current loss of tree health.
Divergent selection in a Mediterranean pine on local spatial scales
Authors: Budde Katharina B. , Rellstab Christian , Heuertz Myriam , Gugerli Felix , Hanika Tom , Verdú Miguel , Pausas Juli G. , González‐Martínez Santiago C.
Published: November 2023

The effects of selection on an organism's genome are hard to detect on small spatial scales, as gene flow can swamp signatures of local adaptation. Therefore, most genome scans to detect signatures of environmental selection are performed on large spatial scales; however, divergent selection on the local scale (e.g. between contrasting soil conditions) has also been demonstrated, in particular for herbaceous plants.

Here, we hypothesised that in topographically complex landscapes, microenvironment variability is strong enough to leave a selective footprint in the genomes of long‐lived organisms. To test this, we investigated paired south‐ versus north‐facing Pinus pinaster stands on the local scale, with trees growing in close vicinity (≤820 m distance between paired south‐ and north‐facing stands), in a Mediterranean mountain area. While trees on north‐facing slopes experience less radiation, trees on south‐facing slopes suffer from especially harsh conditions, particularly during the dry summer season.

Two outlier analyses consistently revealed five putatively adaptive loci (out of 4034), in candidate genes two of which encoded non‐synonymous substitutions. Additionally, one locus showed consistent allele frequency differences in all three stand pairs indicating divergent selection despite high gene flow on the local scale. Permutation tests demonstrated that our findings were robust.

Functional annotation of these candidate genes revealed biological functions related to abiotic stress response, such as water availability, in other plant species.

Synthesis. Our study highlights how divergent selection in heterogeneous microenvironments shapes and maintains the functional genetic variation within populations of long‐lived forest tree species, being the first to focus on adaptive genetic divergence between south‐ and north‐facing slopes within continuous forest stands. This is especially relevant in the current context of climate change, as this variation is at the base of plant population responses to future climate.
Do Institutional Investors Care About Operational Leanness?
Authors: Neukirchen Daniel , Köchling Gerrit , Posch Peter N.
Published: November 2023

We investigate the relationship between operational leanness and institutional ownership. Based on a sample of 12,291 firm‐year observations of US manufacturing firms from 1998 to 2020, we find leaner firms to attract significantly more institutional investors – both in terms of the fraction of shares held and the number of institutional investors holding shares of the firm. This finding holds in several tests addressing endogeneity concerns. Contrary to studies investigating the relationship between operational leanness and operating performance or credit ratings, our results do not provide consistent evidence that this relationship is also of a concave shape. However, we provide evidence that the relationship is stronger (i) for firms with weak corporate governance and high firm‐specific monitoring costs and (ii) for active institutions, suggesting that not only firm performance considerations but also perceived lower agency costs are important mechanisms explaining why institutional investors prefer lean manufacturing firms. Taken together, these findings contribute to our understanding of institutional investors’ preferences in general and across institution types.
Examining factors influencing teachers' intentions in implementing inclusive practices in Hong Kong classrooms
Authors: Chow Wing Sze Emily
Published: November 2023

This study investigated teachers' intentions to adopt inclusive teaching practices along with factors affecting teachers' intentions to implement inclusive practices. According to the theory of planned behaviour, an individual's intention can be predicted by their attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. Using convenience and snowball sampling, 1110 Hong Kong primary and secondary teachers were recruited to complete a 5‐part questionnaire for the study. The results show that teachers' intentions were moderate – that is, teachers were somewhat likely to adopt inclusive teaching practices for students with disabilities. Teachers' attitudes (beliefs and feelings), perceived support needs related to expert guidance and teacher self‐efficacy (in inclusive instructions, managing behaviour and collaboration) significantly influenced their intentions to use inclusive classroom practices for students with disabilities. The findings of this study provide clear implications to policymakers and teacher‐education providers to address teachers' needs and promote the practices of inclusive education.
Do parties matter for policy accumulation? An analysis of social policy portfolios in 22 countries
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ‐I‐MARÍN XAVIER , KNILL CHRISTOPH , STEINEBACH YVES
Published: November 2023

This article analyses the role of political parties in policy accumulation. We study this relationship in the area of social policy. Our analysis builds on a large data set covering the size of policy portfolios (policy targets and instruments) in three subfields of social policy for 22 OECD countries over 30 years. We find that the probability of social policy accumulation is not affected by the government's ideological position. Left governments do not produce more extensive social policy portfolios than right ones. Yet, this striking result does not contradict governments’ political ideologies, as left and right parties accumulate for different reasons. While left parties address new social policy targets to broaden the scope of the welfare state, right parties adopt new policy instruments to condition social benefits. These findings hold regardless of how we measure governments’ ideological position and despite strong endogenous policy growth dynamics, that is, countries with greater policy portfolios also display higher levels of policy accumulation. Our findings indicate that party political considerations can explain the reasons for but not the level of policy accumulation. Changes in government are thus unlikely to stall or slow down the constant accumulation of public policies.