bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of condensin II by self-suppression and release mechanisms
Authors: Yoshida Makoto M. , Kinoshita Kazuhisa , Shintomi Keishi , Aizawa Yuuki , Hirano Tatsuya
Published: December 2023

In vertebrates, two distinct condensin complexes, condensin I and condensin II, cooperate to drive mitotic chromosome assembly. It remains largely unknown how the two complexes differentially contribute to this process at a mechanistic level. We have previously dissected the role of individual subunits of condensin II by introducing recombinant complexes into Xenopus egg extracts. Here we extend these efforts by introducing a modified functional assay using extracts depleted of topoisomerase IIα (topo IIα), which allows us to further elucidate the functional similarities and differences between condensin I and condensin II. The intrinsically disordered C-terminal region of the CAP-D3 subunit (the D3 C-tail) is a major target of Cdk1 phosphorylation, and phosphorylation-deficient mutations in this region impair condensin II functions. We also identify a unique helical structure in CAP-D3 (the D3 HEAT docker) that is predicted to directly interact with CAP-G2. Deletion of the D3 HEAT docker, along with the D3 C-tail, enhances the ability of condensin II to assemble mitotic chromosomes. Taken together, we propose a self-suppression mechanism unique to condensin II that is released by mitotic phosphorylation. Evolutionary implications of our findings are also discussed.
Operationalizing the new DEA exception: A novel process for dispensing of methadone for opioid use disorder at discharge from acute care settings
Authors: Bowman Lindsay A , Berger Olivia , Nesbit Suzanne , Stoller Kenneth B , Buresh Megan , Stewart Rosalyn
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To describe one strategy for dispensing of methadone at emergency department (ED) and hospital discharge implemented within 2 urban academic medical centers.

Expanding access to medications for opioid use disorder (OUD) is a national priority. ED visits and hospitalizations offer an opportunity to initiate or continue these lifesaving medications, including methadone and buprenorphine. However, federal regulations governing methadone treatment and significant gaps in treatment availability have made continuing methadone upon ED or hospital discharge challenging. To address this issue, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) granted an exception allowing hospitals, clinics, and EDs to dispense a 72-hour supply of methadone while continued treatment is arranged. Though this exception addresses a critical unmet need, guidance for operationalizing this service is limited. To facilitate expanded patient access to methadone on ED or hospital discharge at 2 Baltimore hospitals, key stakeholders within the parent health system were identified, and a workgroup was formed. Processes were established for requesting, approving, preparing, and dispensing the methadone supply using an electronic health record order set. Multidisciplinary educational materials were created to support end users of the workflow. In the first 3 months of implementation, 42 requests were entered, of which 36 were approved, resulting in 79 dispensed methadone doses.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates feasibility of methadone dispensing at hospital and ED discharge. Further work is needed to evaluate impact on patient outcomes, such as hospital and ED utilization, length of stay, linkage to treatment, and retention in treatment.
A self-sustaining mechanism for plane Couette flow with a flexible lower boundary
Authors: Chotai A , Walton A G
Published: December 2023

The stability of plane Couette flow to travelling-wave disturbances is studied asymptotically at high Reynolds numbers Re when the lower boundary possesses a degree of flexibility modelled by a spring-backed plate. First, it is shown that a three-dimensional (3D) linear instability exists, with streamwise and spanwise wavelengths comparable with the channel width. Building on this, nonlinear effects from the self-interaction of the wave are introduced, leading to a self-sustaining interaction between a roll/streak flow and the 3D wave. Governing nonlinear vortex-wave interaction (VWI) equations are derived and a perturbation analysis is carried out to guide a numerical investigation of the equations. The co-existence of two families of finite-amplitude solutions, each with different flow structures, is found. Numerical solutions of the VWI equations in each case show that a small wave amplitude of O(Re−1(log Re)−1/2) is all that is necessary to provoke an O(1) change to the basic Couette flow.
Physeal Closure and Fracture Pattern in Adolescent Transitional Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Strauss Gus , Brennan Jacob , Momtaz David , Ghali Abdullah , Landrum Matthew , Rose Ryan
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To show a correlation between grade of physeal closure and fracture pattern in adolescent transitional distal radius fractures.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed of 490 distal radius fractures, ages 14 to 18, at a single institution between 2007 and 2020. A board-certified orthopaedic hand surgeon reviewed all images. Thirty-six distal-radius fractures were considered adolescent transitional fractures. The review included Salter-Harris classification, fracture fragments, and grade of physeal closure.

Results:

Distal radial physeal closure is 50 times more likely to be of a higher grade in the presence of Salter-Harris type IV fractures (P<0.001). Closure of the physis is also 7.37 and 13.08 times more likely to be of higher grade in the absence of a dorsal metaphyseal fracture and in the presence of an ulnar corner fracture, respectively (P=0.011 and 0.021).

Conclusion:

Adolescent transitional fractures of the distal radius occur when the growth plate has a partial closure. The closure pattern of the distal radial physis begins centrally, with subsequent ulnar and then radial closure. In this cohort, there is a correlation between grade of physeal closure and fracture pattern in adolescent transitional distal radius fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—diagnostic.
Path Analysis of Admission and Program Achievement Variables to Predict Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination Performance: Results of a 6-Year Study
Authors: Woltenberg Leslie N. , Rudolph Michael J.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The primary aim of this study was the examination of relationships between students' preadmission achievement, intraphysician assistant (PA) program achievement, and Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) performance using path analysis regression. Second, this study explored the extent to which the theoretical model differed based on several key demographic variables: sex and undergraduate major.

Methods

This retrospective, single-institution study examined data from 2015 to 2022 (n = 322). Analysis included descriptive statistics, bivariate correlations, and path analysis using structural equation modeling to examine direct, indirect, and total effects of all predictors on the primary outcome variable, PANCE.

Results

PACKRAT-I demonstrated the largest total effect size on PANCE total score (β = .45). Total effect size on PANCE was small yet significant for prerequisite grade point average (GPA), Graduate Record Exam verbal and quantitative subscores, a comprehensive didactic cardiology examination, didactic and clinical year GPAs, and End of Rotation examination mean score (β < .25). The relationship between mean preceptor evaluation score and PANCE was nonsignificant. Subgroup analyses showed differences between female and male in the relationship between several didactic variables and preceptor evaluations. No differences were detected between groups based on undergraduate major.

Discussion

This PANCE analysis revealed relationships among pre-PA and intra-PA performance metrics that may subsequently support data-informed strategies for programs to identify at-risk students, aid student success, and support the assessment of curriculum. Future studies should replicate the approach using a larger, multi-institution sample that examines additional preprogram and intraprogram achievement variables.
Bisphosphonate therapy in the management of diffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis of the mandible: a systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Abukhder Munir , Nasri Elmi Salmane , Van Der Lith Sarah , Hawesa Nour , Abukhder Daniah , Abid Husnain , Liu Linda
Published: December 2023

Background:

Diffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis (DSO) affecting the mandible is an uncommon condition characterised by recurrent pain and functional disturbances. Traditional treatments involving antibiotics, steroids, and analgesics have generally yielded unsatisfactory results. Numerous articles have proposed the utilisation of bisphosphonate therapy as an alternative approach to achieve sustained symptom relief. This study aims to consolidate the available evidence on the effectiveness of bisphosphonate therapy in managing DSO.

Methods:

A systematic review protocol was registered with PROSPERO and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting for Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Comprehensive electronic search strategies were devised, and studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results:

Ten articles met the eligibility criteria, encompassing a total of 135 patients diagnosed with DSO who received bisphosphonate treatment. All included studies consistently reported a reduction in pain levels and swelling, along with a decrease in the cumulative use of analgesics. The majority of patients reported long-lasting symptom improvement with bisphosphonate therapy. Notably, four studies documented improvements in maximal mouth opening, with one study reporting a mean increase of 9.6mm. Furthermore, six studies observed improvements in panoramic radiographs and cone beam computed tomography scans, with one publication describing two patients exhibiting near-normal bone architecture. Importantly, all studies reported the absence of long-term complications.

Conclusions:

Bisphosphonate therapy emerges as a promising treatment modality for DSO, exhibiting efficacy in symptom alleviation and radiological enhancement while conferring lasting benefits. Nevertheless, further prospective studies are warranted to refine treatment protocols and substantiate these findings.
Extra-axial desmoplastic/nodular medulloblastoma in adult mimicking cerebellar metastasis: reappraisal of this rare presentation with literature review
Authors: Borni Mehdi , Abdelmouleh Souhir , Tallah Marouen , Blibeche Hela , Elouni Emna , Boudawara Mohamed Zaher
Published: December 2023

Introduction and importance:

Medulloblastomas are the most common malignant intra-axial brain tumour in paediatric patients and represent 35–40% of posterior fossa tumour types in children between 3 and 9 years of age. Medulloblastomas may also be found in adulthood. These tumours are classified into two groups according to its molecular characteristics and histological type. The desmoplastic/nodular subtype is the second common subtype after the classic one. Only three cases of desmoplastic/nodular extra-axial medelloblastoma have been previously reported in the literature originating from to the cerebellopontine angle.

Case presentation:

The authors report a new case of an extra-axial desmoplastic/nodular cerebellar medulloblastoma originating outside the cerebellopontine angle and mimicking a solitary cerebellar metastasis in a 49-year-old female patient who presented for a raised intracranial pressure and cerebellar syndrome.

Clinical discussion:

Medulloblastoma is a malignant embryonal intra-axial tumour of the cerebellum or posterior brain stem that occurs mainly in children. Medulloblastomas may also be found in adulthood. Desmoplastic/nodular medulloblastoma is the second most common type of all medulloblastomas. The intra-axial form is always predominant. Only three cases of extra-axial desmoplastic/nodular medulloblastoma have been reported in the literature. The authors will go through the literature to dissect this rare entity.

Conclusion:

Although considered a common paediatric intra-axial tumour, there are increasing numbers of solitary cases reporting an extra-axial presentation in different locations of the posterior cerebral fossa even in adulthood. These rare and unusual presentations and locations may mislead the correct diagnosis and delay treatment.
Unraveling the conjunctivitis crisis: understanding the spiking incidence in Karachi and Lahore-Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Aliza , Irfan Hamza , Islam Md. Aminul
Published: December 2023

Conjunctivitis is a contagious viral ocular disease that has increased highly in the different areas of Pakistan. Public health data confirmed 86 133 cases in September 2023, which crossed previous any other records. It is confirmed that this infection affects people of all ages, including adults and children frequently. Different clinical symptoms such as painful eyes, redness, inflammation, and augmenting tearing are observed. This infection is responsible for blindness. The transmission of ocular secretion spreads this infectious disease from an infected person to others by contact. In addition current year, less precipitation in Pakistan has impaired the air quality. Temperature, humidity, poor sanitation, polluted air, and other environmental factors are also related to the increase of the disease. This short article aims to present an overview of the rising incidence of conjunctivitis, its probable causes, signs, and symptoms, as well as potential treatments. Using saline for flushing eyes or eye drops is recommended by the Ophthalmologist. A few suggestions such as staying at home, avoiding allergens and contact lenses, washing eyes carefully, and using clean clothes need to be followed for this infection. Multiple immediate action steps are required to prevent and control including heightened public awareness.
The role of cilia during organogenesis in zebrafish
Authors: Liu Junjun , Xie Haibo , Wu Mengfan , Hu Yidan , Kang Yunsi
Published: December 2023

Cilia are hair-like organelles that protrude from the surface of eukaryotic cells and are present on the surface of nearly all human cells. Cilia play a crucial role in signal transduction, organ development and tissue homeostasis. Abnormalities in the structure and function of cilia can lead to a group of human diseases known as ciliopathies. Currently, zebrafish serves as an ideal model for studying ciliary function and ciliopathies due to its relatively conserved structure and function of cilia compared to humans. In this review, we will summarize the different types of cilia that present in embryonic and adult zebrafish, and provide an overview of the advantages of using zebrafish as a vertebrate model for cilia research. We will specifically focus on the roles of cilia during zebrafish organogenesis based on recent studies. Additionally, we will highlight future prospects for ciliary research in zebrafish.
Three-dimensional dipole orientation mapping with high temporal-spatial resolution using polarization modulation
Authors: Zhong Suyi , Qiao Liang , Ge Xichuan , Xu Xinzhu , Fu Yuzhe , Gao Shu , Zhanghao Karl , Hao Huiwen , Wang Wenyi , Li Meiqi , Xi Peng
Published: December 2023

Fluorescence polarization microscopy is widely used in biology for molecular orientation properties. However, due to the limited temporal resolution of single-molecule orientation localization microscopy and the limited orientation dimension of polarization modulation techniques, achieving simultaneous high temporal-spatial resolution mapping of the three-dimensional (3D) orientation of fluorescent dipoles remains an outstanding problem. Here, we present a super-resolution 3D orientation mapping (3DOM) microscope that resolves 3D orientation by extracting phase information of the six polarization modulation components in reciprocal space. 3DOM achieves an azimuthal precision of 2° and a polar precision of 3° with spatial resolution of 128 nm in the experiments. We validate that 3DOM not only reveals the heterogeneity of the milk fat globule membrane, but also elucidates the 3D structure of biological filaments, including the 3D spatial conformation of λ-DNA and the structural disorder of actin filaments. Furthermore, 3DOM images the dipole dynamics of microtubules labeled with green fluorescent protein in live U2OS cells, reporting dynamic 3D orientation variations. Given its easy integration into existing wide-field microscopes, we expect the 3DOM microscope to provide a multi-view versatile strategy for investigating molecular structure and dynamics in biological macromolecules across multiple spatial and temporal scales.
Photoactivatable Blue Fluorescent Protein
Authors: Gaytán Paul , Roldán-Salgado Abigail
Published: December 2023

Photoactivable and photoswitchable fluorescent proteins (FPs) are sophisticated molecular tools that in combination with super-resolution microscopy are helping to elucidate many biological processes. Through the Y66H mutation in the chromophore of the violet fluorescent protein sumireF we created the first photoactivatable blue fluorescent protein (PA-BFP). This protein is rapidly activated over ordinary UV transilluminators at 302 nm or 365 nm in irreversible mode. The maximum excitation and emission wavelengths of this protein, centered at 358 nm and 445 nm, respectively, resemble the values of DAPI—the blue stain widely used in fluorescence microscopy to visualize nucleic acids in cells. Therefore, the immediate use of PA-BFP in cellular biology is clear because the technology required to follow this new genetically encoded reporter at the microscopic level has already been established. PA-BFP can potentially be used together with other photoactivatable fluorescent proteins of different colors to label multiple proteins, which can be simultaneously tracked by advanced microscopic techniques.
PiNUI: A Dataset of Protein–Protein Interactions for Machine Learning
Authors: Dubourg-Felonneau Geoffroy , Wesego Daniel Mitiku , Akiva Eyal , Varadan Ranjani
Published: December 2023

We introduce a novel dataset namedPiNUI:ProteinInteractions withNearlyUniformImbalance. PiNUI is a dataset of Protein–Protein Interactions (PPI) specifically designed for Machine Learning (ML) applications that offer a higher degree of representativeness of real-world PPI tasks compared to existing ML-ready PPI datasets. We achieve such by increasing the data size and quality, and minimizing the sampling bias of negative interactions. We demonstrate that models trained on PiNUI almost always outperform those trained on conventional PPI datasets when evaluated on various general PPI tasks using external test sets. PiNUI is availablehere.
parSEQ:Probe and Rescue Sequencing for Advanced Variant Retrieval from DNA Pool
Authors: Houmani Moustafa , Peterkin Finlay , Antoun Gerard , Fischer Louis , Hammi Anissa
Published: December 2023

Modern protein engineering is powered by sequence-function data-sets. We have developed parSEQ, a platform that maximizes the capture of these protein sequence-function data-sets through a sequence-first-screen-later approach. parSEQ relies on Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to reverse the conventional screen-first-sequence-later workflow. This allows for the high-throughput retrieval of variant sequences from DNA pools, ensuring that every screened variant’s functional data is paired with its sequence data. This report details parSEQ’s methodology and its integration into various protein engineering workflows. Through several case studies, we illustrate parSEQ’s broad applicability. These case studies describe the use of parSEQ for high-throughput variant DNA-template retrieval, expression-ready bacterial clone isolation, sourcing DNA for denovo designed proteins, and preparing targeted mutational libraries. Our findings suggest that parSEQ’s approach to capturing sequence-function data-sets can advance protein engineering efforts, particularly in the age of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Design for maintainability (DfM) implementation among design professionals: empirical evidence from a developing country context
Authors: Agyekum Kofi , Dompey Annabel Morkporkpor Ami , Pittri Hayford , Botchway Edward Ayebeng
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Design for maintainability (DfM) is a construction technique that links maintenance objectives with the design process. Adopting DfM within the construction industry is a solution that can make the maintenance of buildings cost-efficient and simpler. This study investigates the level of implementation of DfM among design professionals in the Ghanaian construction industry (GCI).

Design/methodology/approach

The data from design professionals comprising architects and civil/structural engineers were collected via a questionnaire survey. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests.

Findings

The findings revealed a high level of engagement of design professionals in DfM practices in the Ghanaian construction sector. This high level of engagement is credited to the high level of awareness of the concept of DfM among design professionals, the level of education of design professionals, experience in professional roles and familiarity with the principles of DfM.

Originality/value

This study offers information and fresh perspectives on how cutting-edge DfM principles are practiced in the GCI. The study raises awareness and the level of DfM implementation among design professionals in the GCI. It offers information on how the application of DfM principles enhances cost-effective maintenance that allows facilities to stand the test of time and prove more relevant for users. The understanding and application of DfM in different countries are important if such concepts are to take deep root in the global built environment sector.
Corporate science communication: a compound ideological and mega-ideological discourse
Authors: Waymer Damion , Hill Theon E.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to science communication literature by further highlighting the underexplored role of organizational and corporate perspectives in science communication.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a conceptual article that uses two illustrative vignettes to highlight the power of corporate science communication.

Findings

The key argument is that corporate science communication is a compound ideology that results from merging the hegemonic corporate voice with the ultimate/god-term science (see the work of Kenneth Burke) to form a mega-ideological construct and discourse. Such communication can be so powerful that vulnerable publics and powerful advocates speaking on their behalf have little to no recourse to effectively challenge such discourse. While critiques of corporate science communication in practice are not new, what the authors offer is a possible explanation as to why such discourse is so powerful and hard to combat.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is in the degree to which it both sets an important applied research agenda for the field and fills a critical void in the science communication literature. This conceptual article, in the form of a critical analysis, fills the void by advocating for the inclusion of organizational perspectives in science communication research because of the great potential that organizations have, via science communication, to shape societal behavior and outcomes both positively and negatively. It also coins the terms “compound ideology” and “mega-ideology” to denote that while all ideologies are powerful, ideologies can operate in concert (compound) to change their meaning and effectiveness. By exposing the hegemonic power of corporate science communication, future researchers and practitioners can use these findings as a foundation to combat misinformation and disinformation campaigns wielded by big corporate science entities and the public relations firms often hired to carry out these campaigns.
Why can’t you be all talk to get things done? Consumer acceptance of voice-assisted products
Authors: Xiao Yazhen , Tan Huey Yii
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Voice assistant technology represents one of the most radical artificial intelligence innovations. Drawing on the processing fluency theory and consumer learning literature, this study aims to explore how consumer acceptance of new products is influenced by voice assistant function (VAF), along with the impacts of role clarity and learning modality.

Design/methodology/approach

Four between-subjects experimental studies were conducted. Study 1 tested the main effect of VAF on consumer acceptance. Study 2 included role clarity as a mediator between VAF and consumer acceptance. Study 3 examined the moderation effect of learning modality and contrasted the effectiveness of experiential and verbal learning in helping increase consumer acceptance. Study 4, as a post hoc study, tested serial mediations to validate whether processing fluency was indeed the mechanism explaining the indirect relationship between VAF and consumer acceptance via role clarity.

Findings

The negative impact of VAF on consumer acceptance was demonstrated in all four studies. Studies 2 and 3 showed VAF decreased role clarity which further influenced consumer acceptance. Moreover, Study 3 evidenced that experiential learning was more effective than verbal learning in increasing consumer acceptance of voice-assisted products via role clarity. Study 4 demonstrated that VAF decreased role clarity, which in turn decreased processing fluency, leading to lower consumer acceptance.

Originality/value

This research views the usage of voice-assisted products as a coproduction process between consumers and the VAF. Accordingly, findings provide novel insights into processing fluency of tasks assisted by VAF through the lens of role clarity and learning modality, which enriches the understanding of potential barriers and opportunities for consumers to accept voice-assisted products.
Data-driven decision-making in maintenance management and coordination throughout the asset life cycle: an empirical study
Authors: Hinrichs Maren , Prifti Loina , Schneegass Stefan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

With production systems become more digitized, data-driven maintenance decisions can improve the performance of production systems. While manufacturers are introducing predictive maintenance and maintenance reporting to increase maintenance operation efficiency, operational data may also be used to improve maintenance management. Research on the value of data-driven decision support to foster increased internal integration of maintenance with related functions is less explored. This paper explores the potential for further development of solutions for cross-functional responsibilities that maintenance shares with production and logistics through data-driven approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

Fifteen maintenance experts were interviewed in semi-structured interviews. The interview questions were derived based on topics identified through a structured literature analysis of 126 papers.

Findings

The main findings show that data-driven decision-making can support maintenance, asset, production and material planning to coordinate and collaborate on cross-functional responsibilities. While solutions for maintenance planning and scheduling have been explored for various operational conditions, collaborative solutions for maintenance, production and logistics offer the potential for further development. Enablers for data-driven collaboration are the internal synchronization and central definition of goals, harmonization of information systems and information visualization for decision-making.

Originality/value

This paper outlines future research directions for data-driven decision-making in maintenance management as well as the practical requirements for implementation.
Effect of the gut microbiota on the expression of genes that are important for maintaining skin function: Analysis using aged mice
Authors: Tabata Keito , Ikarashi Nobutomo , Shinozaki Yui , Yoshida Ryotaro , Kon Risako , Sakai Hiroyasu , Hosoe Tomoo , Kamei Junzo
Published: December 2023

The gut microbiota changes greatly at the onset of disease, and the importance of intestinal bacteria has been highlighted. The gut microbiota also changes greatly with aging. Aging causes skin dryness, but it is not known how changes in the gut microbiota with aging affects the expression of genes that are important for maintaining skin function. In this study, we investigated how age‐related changes in gut microbiota affect the expression of genes that regulate skin function. The gut microbiotas from young mice and aged mice were transplanted into germ‐free mice (fecal microbiota transplantation [FMT]). These recipient mice were designated FMT‐young mice and FMT‐old mice respectively, and the expression levels of genes important for maintaining skin function were analyzed. The dermal water content was significantly lower in old mice than that in young mice, indicating dry skin. The gut microbiota significantly differed between old mice and young mice. The water channel aquaporin‐3 (Aqp3) expression level in the skin of FMT‐old mice was significantly higher than that in FMT‐young mice. In addition, among the genes that play an important role in maintaining skin function, the expression levels of those encoding ceramide‐degrading enzyme, ceramide synthase, hyaluronic acid‐degrading enzyme, and Type I collagen were also significantly higher in FMT‐old mice than in FMT‐young mice. It was revealed that the gut microbiota, which changes with age, regulates the expression levels of genes related to skin function, including AQP3.
The distribution and drivers of microbial pigments in the cryoconite of four Tibetan glaciers
Authors: Lyu Xianfu , Cui Wanzhe , Ji Mukan , Wang Wenqiang , Zhang Zhihao , Liu Yongqin
Published: December 2023

Microbial pigments play a significant role in glacier albedo reduction, thereby contributing to accelerated glacier retreat. The Tibetan Plateau has experienced rapid glacier retreat in recent decades due to global warming, yet there is limited understanding of microbial pigment distribution in the region. Here, we investigated the pigment concentration and composition in cryoconite from four glaciers. Our results showed that chlorophylls were the dominant pigments in Palong No. 4 (PL) and Jiemayangzong (JMYZ) glaciers located in the south of the Tibetan Plateau, while carotenoids were dominant in Qiangyong (QY) and Tanggula (TGL) glaciers located in the central region. Additionally, the chlorophyll b to chlorophyll a ratio, which is an indicator of the algae‐to‐cyanobacteria ratio, was higher in PL and JMYZ compared to QY and TGL. By using Random Forest Regression and Structural Equation Modelling, we determined that the concentrations of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids were associated with autotrophic bacteria relative abundance, climatic factors, and a combination of bacterial and climatic factors, respectively. This study is the first to describe the distribution of microbial pigments in cryoconite from Tibetan glaciers, providing additional support on the influence of algal pigment on glacier retreat.
Radicalisation studies: An emerging interdisciplinary field
Authors: Abbas Tahir
Published: December 2023

This research note provides an overview of Radicalisation Studies as an emerging interdisciplinary field aimed at developing more holistic understandings of how and why individuals and groups turn to extreme ideologies and political violence. It traces the evolution of radicalisation research across core social science disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science. While this burgeoning scholarship has expanded knowledge, persistent gaps remain due to studying radicalisation in disciplinary silos. To address this fragmentation, the research note proposes an integrated Radicalisation Studies approach grounded in critical social theory and reflexivity. This paradigm synthesises concepts and mechanisms from across disciplines to investigate the complex interplay between individual vulnerabilities, group dynamics, and broader socio‐political contexts in generating radicalisation. The note outlines theoretical foundations, guiding research questions, and methodological strategies for this new field focused on mixed‐methods, multi‐level analysis. Radicalisation Studies holds promise for advancing theoretical integration, contextualised explanations, critical perspectives on radicalisation discourse, and evidence‐based preventative policies. While challenges remain in institutionalising this emerging field, Radicalisation Studies has the potential to steer research towards greater interdisciplinarity and the nuanced understandings necessary to elucidate this complex phenomenon. The research note aims to spur debate on constructing Radicalisation Studies as a viable scholarly enterprise.
Npc1 gene mutation abnormally activates the classical Wnt signalling pathway in mouse kidneys and promotes renal fibrosis
Authors: Guan Lihong , Jia Zisen , Xu Keli , Yang Minlin , Li Xiaoying , Qiao Liang , Liu Yanli , Lin Juntang
Published: December 2023

Niemann–Pick disease type C1 (NPC1) is a lysosomal lipid storage disease caused by NPC1 gene mutation. Our previous study found that, compared with wild‐type (Npc1+/+) mice, the renal volume and weight of Npc1 gene mutant (Npc1−/−) mice were significantly reduced. We speculate that Npc1 gene mutations may affect the basic structure of the kidneys of Npc1−/− mice, and thus affect their function. Therefore, we randomly selected postnatal Day 28 (P28) and P56 Npc1+/+ and Npc1−/− mice, and observed the renal structure and pathological changes by haematoxylin–eosin staining. The level of renal fibrosis was detected by immunofluorescence histochemical techniques, and western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of apoptosis‐related proteins and canonical Wnt signalling pathway related proteins. The results showed that compared with Npc1+/+ mice, the kidneys of P28 and P56 Npc1−/− mice underwent apoptosis and fibrosis; furthermore, there were obvious vacuoles in the cytoplasm of renal tubular epithelial cells of P56 Npc1−/− mice, the cell bodies were loose and foam‐like, and the canonical Wnt signalling pathway was abnormally activated. These results showed that Npc1 gene mutation can cause pathological changes in the kidneys of mice. As age increased, vacuoles developed in the cytoplasm of renal tubular epithelial cells, and apoptosis of renal cells, abnormal activation of the Wnt signalling pathway, and promotion of renal fibrosis increased.
Long‐term eltrombopag in children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia: A single‐centre extended real‐life observational study in China
Authors: Wang Zhifa , Wang Nan , Juntao Ouyang , Ma Jingyao , Dong Shuyue , Meng Jinxi , Liu Jingjing , Chen Zhenping , Cheng Xiaoling , Wu Runhui
Published: December 2023

We have previously confirmed the efficacy and safety of eltrombopag (ELT) in children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (cITP). However, data on both long‐term exposure and early use of TPO‐RAs are lacking, so further ‘field‐practice’ evidence on treatment is required. Here, we report the long‐term follow‐up results (between September 2018 and June 2023) of our previous study. The main objective of this study was to retrospectively review our large institutional experience with ITP patients previously enrolled in our paediatric cITP study. We had more than 3 years of follow‐up by June 2023 for treatment patterns and outcomes. A total of 65 patients (28 males) were enrolled, with a median age at ELT initiation of 6.34 (range 1.65, 14.13) years and a follow‐up of 47.07 (36.00, 57.00) months, with 40.36 (10.53, 56.83) months of ELT therapy at the time of analysis. In total, 29.23% (19/65) of patients discontinued ELT due to stable response, and 18.46% (12/65) of patients switched to other ITP therapies due to loss of response (LOR) after 19.13 (14.53, 26.37) months. Of the 19 patients who discontinued ELT due to a stable response, 24.62% (16/65) achieved a 12 m sustained response off‐treatment (SRoT); the last recorded platelet count ranged from 56 to 166 × 109/L (median 107 × 109/L); and 4.62% (3/65) patients relapsed at 5, 6 and 9 months after discontinuation. Of the 12 patients who LOR to ELT after 19.13 (14.53, 26.37) months of therapy, four switched to avatrombopag, three switched to hetrombopag, two switched to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), one underwent splenectomy and two received additional prednisolone under ELT treatment. Thirty‐four patients who tapered and maintained a durable response. The patients with LOR and the patients with tapering were compared; the platelet count at the start of ELT is lower, and the time to response is longer in the patients with LOR. The platelet count at the start of ELT and the time to response may be the predictive factors for LOR during ELT treatment. We report more than 3 years of long‐term clinical data on children with cITP using ELT. These data do not raise any new safety concerns regarding the long‐term use of ELT in children with cITP.
Exome sequencing identifies homozygous variants in MBOAT7 associated with neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Nazmina Gul , Khan Amjad , Jiang Jiuhong , Miao Zhichao , Khan Shahid Niaz , Khan Muhammad Ismail , Shah Abdul Haleem , Shah Ayesha Haleem , Khisroon Muhammad , Haack Tobias B
Published: December 2023

Intellectual disability (ID) is a large group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by a congenital limitation in intellectual functioning (reasoning, learning, and problem solving), adaptive behavior (conceptual, social, and practical skills), originated at birth and manifested before the age of 18. By whole exome sequencing of five consanguineous Pakistani families presenting hallmark features of ID, global developmental delay, aggressive and self‐injurious behaviors, microcephaly, febrile seizures and facial dysmorphic features, we identified three novel homozygous missense variants (NM_024298.5: c.588G > T; p.Trp196Cys, c.736 T > C; p.Tyr246His and c.524A > C; p. Asp175Ala) and one rare homozygous in‐frame deletion variant (c.758_778del;p.Glu253_Ala259del) in membrane‐bound O‐acyltransferase family member 7 (MBOAT7) gene previously associated with autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder. The segregation of the variants was validated by Sanger sequencing in all family members. In silico homology modeling of wild‐type and mutated proteins revealed substantial changes in the structure of both proteins, indicating a possible effect on function. The identification and validation of new pathogenic MBOAT7 variants in five cases of autosomal recessive ID further highlight the importance of this genes in proper brain function and development.
Contact allergens in African countries: A review of published patch test studies
Authors: Bonefeld Nikolaj Menné , Menné Torkil , Ahrensbøll‐Friis Ulrik , Gadsbøll Anne‐Sofie Østergaard , Wang Christian William , Theander Thor Grundtvig , Masenga Elisante John , Mavura Daudi , Ødum Niels , Bonefeld Charlotte Menné , Geisler Carsten
Published: December 2023

Only few studies on contact allergy in African countries have been published. The aim of the present study was to provide an overview of the most common contact allergens identified by the use of patch tests in African countries based on a review of the existing literature. A total of twenty‐four publications from eight African countries were initially identified by search in PubMed. The abstracts and method sections were screened, and 15 studies in which patch tests were actually used to identify the allergen causing the allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) were finally selected. Nickel, cobalt, chromium, fragrance mix and p‐tert‐butylphenol‐formaldehyde resin were the dominating contact allergens responsible for 40%–90% of the positive patch test reactions. This study indicates that a targeted effort directed towards prevention, avoidance and regulation of reliably identified contact allergens could reduce the disease burden of ACD considerable in some African countries.
A comparative study on the effect of alcohol‐based hand sanitizers in spray and gel formulation on the skin: A prospective, randomised, crossover trial
Authors: Suwanchai Chananya , Udompataikul Montree , Kamanamool Nanticha , Kanokrungsee Silada
Published: December 2023

Background

Many formulations of Alcohol‐based hand rubs (ABHRs), such as liquid, gel, and spray have been developed and used for preventing infections. This study aimed to compare skin irritation from using ABHRs in gel and spray formulations.

Method

This was a prospective, randomised, crossover trial conducted to investigate the effect of skin irritation caused by ABHRs in gel compared to spray formulation after 21 days of using each formulation. Clinical outcomes were assessed using subjective Larson's skin assessment score and Frosch and Kligman observer skin assessment score, as well as bioengineering measures: transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin capacitance on days 3, 7, 14, and 21.

Results

Among 38 participants, both formulations showed no significant change in clinical scores and skin capacitance during the study. However, TEWL increased significantly from baseline on day 3 (p = 0.029) for the spray formulation and on day 21 (p = 0.019) for the gel formulation, with no statistically significant difference between the formulations (p = 0.46).

Conclusion

Our research supports the safety of gel and spray ABHRs for regular use, with the only potential issue being mild skin irritation. For those with sensitive skin, the gel formulation is preferable.
Genetic support to uplist an African cheetah subspecies, Acinonyx jubatus soemmeringii, imperiled by illegal trade
Authors: Schmidt‐Küntzel Anne , Yashphe Shira , Hamalwa Hafeni , Ismail Shukri H. , Tricorache Patricia , Brewer Bruce , O'Brien Stephen J. , Marker Laurie
Published: December 2023

There has been a drastic decline in the number of cheetahs in the past century. Illegal pet trade poses a critical threat to the survival of the species and demands more attention. Genetic analysis of 55 cheetahs confiscated in Somaliland shows 100% as Acinonyx jubatus soemmeringii, suggesting that illegal trade subjects A. j. soemmeringii to significant pressure. Continued decline of the estimated 260–590 mature individuals qualifies this subspecies as “endangered” versus currently “vulnerable,” under criterion C2a(i) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. A population decline of ≥80% over the next 10 years or 3 generations would even fulfill criterion A3 of “critically endangered.” We urge reclassification of A. j. soemmeringii, as endangered, and appeal to the cheetah community to investigate further uplisting to critically endangered to reflect the likely extinction risk exacerbated by the illegal trade.
Trypanosoma cruzi heme responsive gene (TcHRG) plays a central role in orchestrating heme uptake in epimastigotes
Authors: Tevere Evelyn , Di Capua Cecilia Beatriz , Chasen Nathan Michael , Etheridge Ronald Drew , Cricco Julia Alejandra
Published: December 2023

Trypanosoma cruzi, a heme auxotrophic parasite, can control intracellular heme content by modulating heme responsive gene (TcHRG) expression when a free heme source is added to an axenic culture. Herein, we explored the role of TcHRG protein in regulating the uptake of heme derived from hemoglobin in epimastigotes. We demonstrate that the endogenous TcHRG (protein and mRNA) responded similarly to bound (hemoglobin) and free (hemin) heme. Endogenous TcHRG was found in the flagellar pocket boundaries and partially overlapping with the mitochondrion. On the other hand, endocytic null parasites were able to develop and exhibited a similar heme content compared to wild‐type when fed with hemoglobin, indicating that endocytosis is not the main entrance pathway for hemoglobin‐derived heme in this parasite. Moreover, the overexpression of TcHRG led to an increase in heme content when hemoglobin was used as the heme source. Taken together, these results suggest that the uptake of hemoglobin‐derived heme likely occurs through extracellular proteolysis of hemoglobin via the flagellar pocket, and this process is governed by TcHRG. In sum, T. cruzi epimastigotes control heme homeostasis by modulating TcHRG expression independently of the available source of heme.
HB‐EGF promotes progenitor cell proliferation and sensory neuron regeneration in the zebrafish olfactory epithelium
Authors: Sireci Siran , Kocagöz Yigit , Alkiraz Aysu Sevval , Güler Kardelen , Dokuzluoglu Zeynep , Balcioglu Ecem , Meydanli Sinem , Demirler Mehmet Can , Erdogan Nuray Sögünmez , Fuss Stefan Herbert
Published: December 2023

Maintenance and regeneration of the zebrafish olfactory epithelium (OE) are supported by two distinct progenitor cell populations that occupy spatially discrete stem cell niches and respond to different tissue conditions. Globose basal cells (GBCs) reside at the inner and peripheral margins of the sensory OE and are constitutively active to replace sporadically dying olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). In contrast, horizontal basal cells (HBCs) are uniformly distributed across the sensory tissue and are selectively activated by acute injury conditions. Here we show that expression of the heparin‐binding epidermal growth factor‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) is strongly and transiently upregulated in response to OE injury and signals through the EGF receptor (EGFR), which is expressed by HBCs. Exogenous stimulation of the OE with recombinant HB‐EGF promotes HBC expansion and OSN neurogenesis in a pattern that resembles the tissue response to injury. In contrast, pharmacological inhibition of HB‐EGF membrane shedding, HB‐EGF availability, and EGFR signaling strongly attenuate or delay injury‐induced HBC activity and OSN restoration without affecting maintenance neurogenesis by GBCs. Thus, HB‐EGF/EGFR signaling appears to be a critical component of the signaling network that controls HBC activity and, consequently, repair neurogenesis in the zebrafish OE.
ETF and corporate reporting
Authors: Jang In Ji , Kang Namho
Published: December 2023

When ownership by ETFs is high, the penalty to missing earnings expectation is smaller by 43%. The smaller penalty is not due to underreaction but is attributed to the long investment horizon of ETFs. Consequently, firms with high ETF ownership engage in earnings and expectation managements less frequently and are less likely to reduce discretionary spending to marginally meet or beat. Using Russell 1000/2000 index reconstitution as an identification, we corroborate the main results. Amid conflicting evidence for the effect of ETFs on market efficiency, our finding highlights their positive effect on corporate reporting.