bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posterior Vault Distraction Osteogenesis: Rates of Ossification in Bone Gaps After Consolidation
Authors: Naran Sanjay , Mazzaferro Daniel M. , Wes Ari M. , Larson Jordan H. , Bartlett Scott P. , Taylor Jesse A.
Published: February 2022

The authors observe significant bone gaps upon distractor removal in posterior vault distraction osteogenesis (PVDO). The purpose of this study was to quantify bone gaps upon distractor removal, determine whether they close over time, determine if they predispose to relapse, and investigate whether age affects rate and degree of re-ossification. The authors performed a retrospective review of PVDO patients and included those with computed tomography (CT) scans at 2 timepoints: 1 at completion of consolidation and another at least 4 months later. Using Mimics software, bone gaps were traced to calculate total surface area. A paired t test and linear regression were used to compare size of bone gaps, presence of relapse, and rates of re-ossification. Sixty-nine patients were identified, with 7 meeting inclusion criteria. Three were under 1 year. Consolidation began 28.3 ± 6.0 days after surgery and continued for 64.9 ± 14.5 days. Length of time between CT scans was 7.5 ± 2.7 months. A significant decrease in bone gaps occurred between scans (33.4 ± 14.6 cm2 versus 19.2 ± 17.2 cm2, P = 0.005). After consolidation, ossification occurred at a rate of 2.4 cm2/month (P = 0.046). The rate of bony regeneration in patients under and over 1 year was 4.3 cm3/month (P = 0.025) and 1.5 cm3/month (P = 0.552), respectively. Despite differential bony regeneration rates, no patient demonstrated relapse. From this study, the authors conclude the following. Calvarial bone gaps are present after PVDO consolidation. These gaps undergo re-ossification at a rate that appears to be faster in infants. Overall, they decrease in size over time. The presence of bone gaps does not correlate with relapse of cranial expansion.
Reconstruction of Cranial Bone Defects Using Polyamide 12 Patient-Specific Implant: Long Term Follow Up
Authors: Arafat Shereen W. , Ibrahim Waleed H. , Shaker Shady , AlDainy Duaa Gawad , Salama Dina , Shaheen Hamed A.
Published: February 2022

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the use of patient-specific polyamide 12 implants in cranial bone defect reconstruction.

Ten patients who underwent prior decompression craniectomy were selected for the current study. Skull scanning by computerized tomography was performed and used to make virtual planning of the implants to be transformed into physical implant using selective laser sintering. Cranioplasty was performed through coronal surgical approach where cranial implants were fixated using 2.0-mm mini-screws, and plates. Patients follow-up was from 12 to 36 months. Glasgow Outcome Score recorded 1 (good recovery) for all patients. Patient and surgeon satisfaction for the esthetic outcome were measured using visual analog scale as mean of 10 ± 0 and 9 ± 1, respectively. Cranial symmetry index was calculated as mean score of 98% ± 1%, indicating highly accurate symmetry, and preoperative virtual planning and postoperative outcome were compared for accuracy analysis with a mean difference of 0.3197 ± 0.1649, which indicates high accuracy.

Polyamide12 cranial implants seem to offer a promising option to cranial bone reconstruction with patient-specific implants. This study ensures proper cosmetic and clinical outcome.
Reconstruction of the Defect at Temporal Hairline by a Scalp Keystone Island Flap: Clinical Experience on 14 Cases
Authors: Tang Weiya , Xu Jianguo , Lou Xiaoli , Jin Ying , Tao Ran , Bi Hongda
Published: February 2022

Background:

The reconstructions of defects at the temporal hairline always require more complicated designs and higher surgical skills to acquire better aesthetic results. By taking advantage of the unique anatomy of the temporal region, the authors designed a scalp keystone island flap pedicled by superficial temporal fascia to repair defects on the temporal hairline.

Methods:

The authors retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 14 patients who had lesions adjacent to the temporal hairline between April 2018 and June 2020. Patients were diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, squamous-cell carcinoma, or seborrheic keratosis. These lesions were resected and reconstructed by scalp keystone island flaps. The defects ranged from 2.0 cm × 1.5 cm to 3.0 cm × 3.5 cm.

Results:

All patients were satisfied with postoperative morphology and reported no recurrence at the 6 to 24 months follow-up. Flaps in two patients were partially necrosed but eventually healed by dressing changes. The rest had the first intention of healing.

Conclusions:

The scalp keystone island flap is a very useful method to repair small or medium defects at the temporal hairline. This flap can be flexibly designed and easily performed with a high survival rate and good aesthetic results. It provides another surgical option for complicated reconstruction.
Survival of a Blank Cartridge Gunshot Injury to the Soft Palate in a Soldier
Authors: Lee Hojun , Hwang Kun , Lee Yoonhyun , Jeong Sung Yub
Published: February 2022

The authors report a case of a soldier who survived after shooting a blank round from a K2 rifle into the oral cavity.

For committing suicide, a 22-year-old male soldier shot a K2 rifle into his oral cavity. Because the first shot was a blank fire, he received an injury to his oral cavity, especially to his palate. On arrival hospital via air evacuation, the patient's vital signs were relatively stable and Glasgow Coma Scale score was 15. Profound epistaxis was noted from both nostrils, and his mouth was filled with blood. Intubation was performed immediately, followed by tracheostomy. On computed tomography scan, the palate was injured and laryngeal edema was seen.

On operative field, severe swelling of the larynx was observed. Gunpowder remained present throughout nearly the entire palate. His palate was burned, and there was a 3-cm-diameter mucosal defect. The bleeding point was cauterized, and bleeding was controlled using oral packing. The packing was changed every morning for the first 2 days, and finally removed on the third day of hospitalization. On the eighth day of hospitalization, the defect of his soft palate showed healing by secondary intention, and a planned reconstructive operation was not needed. Tracheostomy was removed on the 45th day. He was able to eat and speak at the time of discharge (93rd day).

The authors cannot overemphasize the importance of the airway in oral injuries. Packing for bleeding control under a safe airway should be followed as a routine part of the protocol for similar cases.
Changes in Direction of Eyelashes After Epiblepharon Surgery Using the Hotz Procedure
Authors: Youn Jimin , Kim Joohyun , Lee Hyunkyu , Lee Hwa , Park Jinhwan , Baek Sehyun
Published: February 2022

Purpose:

To analyze the change of direction of eyelashes after epiblepharon surgery using the Hotz procedure and to propose the appropriate correction amount to reduce the risk of undercorrection or overcorrection.

Methods:

Surgical correction using the Hotz procedure was performed in 60 patients who then were followed for 3 months in Korea University Anam Hospital. Clinical photographs were collected before and after the correction to measure the angle of the lower eyelashes.

Result:

The average angle before and after correction was 38.5° and −24.1°, respectively. The lower eyelashes gradually became introverted, and the amount of angle change was 9.3° at postoperative 1 month (P < 0.001). These lashes become slightly extroverted to −15.0° at 3 months after the correction.

Conclusions:

Lower eyelashes become introverted to about 9 degrees after surgical correction. They become more introverted after operation when the epiblepharon is more severe and when they are more reconditioned to extroversion immediately after the operation.
A Modified Technique for Treating Post-Traumatic Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Liang Jiayu , Liu Lei , Li Hui
Published: February 2022

Treatment of post-traumatic temporomandibular joint ankylosis is still a challenge. A modified technique that included surgery navigation technique, ultrasonic osteotome, bovine acellular dermal matrix, and abdominal dermis fat transplantation, was applied to treat a case of post-traumatic temporomandibular joint ankylosis. A 11-year-old girl with right temporomandibular joint bony ankylosis received surgical treatment in our department. Immediately restoration of functions and prevention of re-ankylosis have been achieved. Therefore, this case report demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of this modified technique in the management of temporomandibular joint ankylosis surgery.
Side Effects of Cranial Remolding Orthoses: A Multi-Site Review
Authors: Graham Tiffany , Wang Jijia
Published: February 2022

Infants with deformational head shapes may be treated with a Cranial Remolding Orthosis (CRO). Risks of CROs include skin irritations and other minor side effects. It is important to examine the incidence of complications with CRO treatment to determine if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

This study retrospectively examined surveys provided by both practitioners and caregivers regarding orthotic treatment side effects and wear time at four clinics in Canada. Statistical analysis including the Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact tests were performed to examine how the side effects varied by treatment site and by reported orthotic wear time.

In total, 5,025 surveys about the CRO treatment of 453 patients were reviewed. The most common side effects were pressure spots, redness lasting for more than 1 hour, excessive sweat, and foul odor; however, the vast majority reported no significant issues (87.08%). Only 2.81% of surveys reported multiple side effects, which was about three times more like to happen when the CRO was reported to have fit problems. Wear time is correlated with the report of side effects; infants who wore the CRO 18 to 23.5 hours had statistically fewer side effects than those who wore the CRO for less time. The reported incidence of side effects may be artificially inflated because infants experiencing side effects are more likely to have more frequent follow-up.

Overall, the side effects of CRO treatment reported in this cohort were relatively rare and minimal, indicating CRO treatment is a safe way to treat deformational head shapes.
Late Deformity Following Fronto-Orbital Reconstructive Surgery for Metopic Synostosis: The Role of Temporalis Muscle
Authors: James Gregory , Rossi-Espagnet Maria Camilla , Moltoni Giulia , D’Arco Felice , Hayward Richard
Published: February 2022

Theories for late-developing deformity (LDD) following fronto-orbital reconstructive surgery (FOR) for metopic synostosis (MS) must explain both its delayed onset and its physical characteristics. This study examined whether FOR-related interference with the normal childhood expansion of temporalis is responsible for its soft tissue component.

Three-dimensional reformats of preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans of MS patients were reviewed. Measurements of vertical and horizontal reach of temporalis against those of the underlying skull (to allow for normal skull growth) were compared with normal subjects. The thickness of temporalis and the development of the temporal crests were also assessed.

Mean age at FOR was 17.1 months; interval between surgery and first report of LDD 4.7 years; mean age at computed tomography scan for post-FOR LDD patients 8.8 years. There was a significant difference between vertical and horizontal reach of temporalis in pre-FOR MS patients compared to normal subjects (P < 0.0017 and P < 0.05, respectively). The vertical age-related reach of temporalis in post-FOR patients after allowing for underlying skull growth was significantly reduced (P = 0.0045) compared to normal subjects but not its horizontal reach (P = 0.25). Temporal crests in LDD patients were absent or aberrantly formed while muscle thickness was similar to normal subjects at the 2 levels measured.

This study supports the theory that failure of the normal childhood expansion of temporalis is responsible for the soft tissue element of LDD, accounting for both its delayed onset and physical characteristics. Aberrant temporal crest development suggests FOR-related damage as the probable cause.
Widespread sharing of pneumococcal strains in a rural African setting: proximate villages are more likely to share similar strains that are carried at multiple timepoints
Authors: Senghore Madikay , Chaguza Chrispin , Bojang Ebrima , Tientcheu Peggy-Estelle , Bancroft Rowan E. , Lo Stephanie W. , Gladstone Rebecca A. , McGee Lesley , Worwui Archibald , Foster-Nyarko Ebenezer , Ceesay Fatima , Okoi Catherine Bi , Klugman Keith P. , Breiman Robert F. , Bentley Stephen D. , Adegbola Richard , Antonio Martin , Hanage William P. , Kwambana-Adams Brenda A.
Published: February 2022

The transmission dynamics of

Streptococcus pneumoniae

in sub-Saharan Africa are poorly understood due to a lack of adequate epidemiological and genomic data. Here we leverage a longitudinal cohort from 21 neighbouring villages in rural Africa to study how closely related strains of

S. pneumoniae

are shared among infants. We analysed 1074 pneumococcal genomes isolated from 102 infants from 21 villages. Strains were designated for unique serotype and sequence-type combinations, and we arbitrarily defined strain sharing where the pairwise genetic distance between strains could be accounted for by the mean within host intra-strain diversity. We used non-parametric statistical tests to assess the role of spatial distance and prolonged carriage on strain sharing using a logistic regression model. We recorded 458 carriage episodes including 318 (69.4 %) where the carried strain was shared with at least one other infant. The odds of strain sharing varied significantly across villages (χ2=47.5, df=21, P-value <0.001). Infants in close proximity to each other were more likely to be involved in strain sharing, but we also show a considerable amount of strain sharing across longer distances. Close geographic proximity (<5 km) between shared strains was associated with a significantly lower pairwise SNP distance compared to strains shared over longer distances (P-value <0.005). Sustained carriage of a shared strain among the infants was significantly more likely to occur if they resided in villages within a 5 km radius of each other (P-value <0.005, OR 3.7). Conversely, where both infants were transiently colonized by the shared strain, they were more likely to reside in villages separated by over 15 km (P-value <0.05, OR 1.5). PCV7 serotypes were rare (13.5 %) and were significantly less likely to be shared (P-value <0.001, OR −1.07). Strain sharing was more likely to occur over short geographical distances, especially where accompanied by sustained colonization. Our results show that strain sharing is a useful proxy for studying transmission dynamics in an under-sampled population with limited genomic data. This article contains data hosted by Microreact.
Macromolecular crowding and supersaturation protect hemodialysis patients from the onset of dialysis-related amyloidosis
Authors: Nakajima Kichitaro , Yamaguchi Keiichi , Noji Masahiro , Aguirre César , Ikenaka Kensuke , Mochizuki Hideki , Zhou Lianjie , Ogi Hirotsugu , Ito Toru , Narita Ichiei , Gejyo Fumitake , Naiki Hironobu , Yamamoto Suguru , Goto Yuji
Published: February 2022

Dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA), a serious complication among long-term hemodialysis patients, is caused by amyloid fibrils of β2-microglobulin (β2m). Although high serum β2m levels and a long dialysis vintage are the primary and secondary risk factors for the onset of DRA, respectively, patients with these do not always develop DRA, indicating that there are additional risk factors. To clarify these unknown factors, we investigated the effects of human sera on β2m amyloid fibril formation. Although sera markedly inhibited amyloid fibril formation, the inhibitory effects were weaker for sera collected from dialysis patients than for control sera. When sera collected before and after maintenance dialysis treatments were compared, the latter inhibited amyloid fibril formation more than the former. These results indicate that, although the inhibitory effects of sera were deteriorated in long-term dialysis patients, they were ameliorated by maintenance dialysis treatments in the short term. Maintenance dialysis decreases the body weight by 5% and consequently increases the concentrations of serum components. Among these components, we found that serum albumin prevented amyloid fibril formation based on macromolecular crowding effects, and that the decreased serum albumin concentration in dialysis patients is a tertiary risk factor for the onset of DRA. The model was constructed assuming accumulative effects of three risk factors and may be useful for predicting the onset of DRA. Furthermore, the model suggested the importance of monitoring temporary and accumulated risks to prevent the development of amyloidoses in general, which occurs based on supersaturation-limited amyloid fibril formation in a crowded milieu.
Oncogenic protein condensates suppress growth factor perception and modulate drug tolerance
Authors: Gonzalez-Martinez David , Roth Lee , Mumford Thomas R. , Guan Juan , Huang Bo , Tulpule Asmin , Bivona Trever G. , Bugaj Lukasz J.
Published: February 2022

Drug resistance remains a central challenge towards durable cancer therapy, including for cancers driven by the EML4-ALK oncogene. EML4-ALK and related fusion oncogenes form cytoplasmic protein condensates that transmit oncogenic signals through the Ras/Erk pathway. However, whether such condensates play a role in drug response is unclear. Here, we used optogenetics to find that condensates suppress signaling through endogenous RTKs including EGFR. Notably, ALK inhibition hypersensitized RTK signals, which are known to drive resistance. Suppression of RTKs occurred because condensates sequestered downstream adapter proteins that are required for RTK signal transmission. Strikingly, EGFR hypersensitization resulted in rapid and pulsatile Erk signal reactivation, which originated from neighboring apoptotic cells. Paracrine signals promoted survival during ALK inhibition, and blockade of paracrine signals suppressed drug tolerance. Our results uncover a regulatory role for RTK fusion condensates in cancer drug response and demonstrate the potential of optogenetics for uncovering functional biomarkers of cancer cells.
Fetal origin of sex-bias brain aging
Authors: Islam Maliha , Strawn Monica , Behura Susanta K.
Published: February 2022

DNA methylation plays crucial roles during fetal development as well as aging. Whether the aging of the brain is programmed at the fetal stage remains untested. To test this hypothesis, mouse epigenetic clock (epiclock) was profiled in fetal (gestation day 15), postnatal (day 5), and aging (week 70) brain of male and female C57BL/6J inbred mice. Data analysis showed that on week 70 the female brain was epigenetically younger than the male brain. Predictive modeling by neural network identified specific methylations in the brain at the developing stages that were predictive of epigenetic state of the brain during aging. Transcriptomic analysis showed coordinated changes in expression of epiclock genes in the fetal brain relative to placenta. Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing identified sites that were methylated both in the placenta and fetal brain in a sex-specific manner. Epiclock genes and genes associated with specific signaling pathways, primarily the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR) pathway, were associated with these sex-bias methylations in the placenta as well as fetal brain. Transcriptional crosstalk among the epiclock and GnRHR pathway genes was evident in the placenta that was maintained in the brain during development as well as aging. Collectively, these findings suggest that sex differences in the aging of brain are of fetal origin and epigenetically linked to the placenta.
Unraveling the Enzymatic Mechanism of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-Dependent-RNA-Polymerase. An Unusual Active Site Leading to High Replication Rates
Authors: Bignon Emmanuelle , Monari Antonio
Published: February 2022

Viral infection relies on the hijacking of cellular machineries to enforce the reproduction of the infecting virus and its subsequent diffusion. In this context the replication of the viral genome is a key step performed by specific enzymes, i.e. polymerases. The replication of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemics, is based on the duplication of its RNA genome, an action performed by the viral RNA-dependent-RNA polymerase. In this contribution, for the first time and by using two-dimensional enhanced sampling quantum mechanics/ molecular mechanics, we have determined the chemical mechanisms leading to the inclusion of a nucleotide in the nascent viral RNA strand. We prove the high efficiency of the polymerase, which lowers the activation free energy to less than 10 kcal/mol. Furthermore, the SARS-CoV-2 polymerase active site is slightly different from those found usually found in other similar enzymes, and particularly it lacks the possibility to enforce a proton shuttle via a nearby histidine. Our simulations show that this absence is partially compensate by lysine, whose proton assist the reaction opening up an alternative, but highly efficient, reactive channel. Our results present the first mechanistic resolution of SARS-CoV-2 genome replication and shed light on unusual enzymatic reactivity paving the way for future rational design of antivirals targeting emerging RNA viruses.
Global chromatin mobility induced by a DSB is dictated by chromosomal conformation and defines the outcome of Homologous Recombination
Authors: Fernandez Fabiola Garcia , Almayrac Etienne , Simon Ànnia Carré , Batrin Renaud , Khalil Yasmine , Boissac Michel , Fabre Emmanuelle
Published: February 2022

Repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is crucial for genome integrity. A conserved response to DSBs is an increase in chromatin mobility that can be local, at the site of the DSB, or global, at undamaged regions of the genome. Here we address the function of global chromatin mobility during homologous recombination (HR) of a single, targeted, controlled DSB. We set up a system that tracks HR in vivo over time and show that two types of DSB-induced global chromatin mobility are involved in HR, depending on the position of the DSB. In spatial proximal regions such as the pericentromeric region, a DSB therein induces global mobility that depends solely on H2A(X) phosphorylation and accelerates repair kinetics, but is not essential. In contrast, the global mobility induced by a DSB away from the centromere, becomes essential for HR repair and is triggered by homology search through a mechanism that depends on H2A(X) phosphorylation, checkpoint progression and Rad51. Our data demonstrate that global mobility is governed by chromosomal conformation and differentially coordinates repair by HR.
Telomeres are shorter in wild Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolates than in domesticated ones
Authors: D’Angiolo Melania , Yue Jia-Xing , De Chiara Matteo , Barré Benjamin P. , Panis Marie-Josèphe Giraud , Gilson Eric , Liti Gianni
Published: February 2022

Telomeres are ribonucleoproteins that cap chromosome-ends and their DNA length is controlled by counteracting elongation and shortening processes. The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been a leading model to study telomere DNA length control and dynamics. Its telomeric DNA is maintained at a length that slightly varies between laboratory strains, but little is known about its variation at the species level. The recent publication of the genomes of over 1000 S. cerevisiae strains enabled us to explore telomere DNA length variation at an unprecedented scale. Here, we developed a bioinformatic pipeline (YeaISTY) to estimate telomere DNA length from whole-genome-sequences and applied it to the sequenced 1011 S. cerevisiae collection. Our results revealed broad natural telomere DNA length variation among the isolates. Notably, telomere DNA length is shorter in those derived from wild rather than domesticated environments. Wild isolates are enriched in loss-of-function mutations in genes known to regulate telomere DNA length and the return of domesticated yeasts to a wild habitat coincides with shorter telomeres. Moreover, telomere DNA length variation is associated with mitochondrial metabolism, and this association is driven by wild strains. Overall, these findings suggest that budding yeasts’ telomere DNA length regulation might be shaped by ecological life-styles.
De novo stem cell establishment in meristems requires repression of organ boundary cell fate
Authors: Nicolas Antoine , Maugarny-Calès Aude , Adroher Bernard , Chelysheva Liudmila , Li Yu , Burguet Jasmine , Bågman Anne-Maarit , Smit Margot E. , Brady Siobhan M. , Li Yunhai , Laufs Patrick
Published: February 2022

Stem cells play important roles in animal and plant biology as they sustain morphogenesis and tissue replenishment following aging or injuries. In plants, stem cells are embedded in multicellular structures called meristems and the formation of new meristems is essential for the plastic expansion of the highly branched shoot and root systems. In particular, axillary meristems that produce lateral shoots arise from the division of boundary domain cells at the leaf base. The CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON (CUC) genes are major determinants of the boundary domain and are required for axillary meristem initiation. However, how axillary meristems get structured and how stem cells become established de novo remains elusive. Here, we show that two NGATHA-LIKE transcription factors, DPA4 and SOD7, redundantly repress CUC expression in the initiating axillary meristem. Ectopic boundary fate leads to abnormal growth and organisation of the axillary meristem and prevents de novo stem cell establishment. Floral meristems of the dpa4 sod7 double mutant show a similar delay in stem cell de novo establishment. Altogether, while boundary fate is required for the initiation of axillary meristems, our work reveals how it is later repressed to allow proper meristem establishment and de novo stem cell niche formation.
Canonical BMP2/4 signaling degrades SOX2 in glioblastoma propagating cells
Authors: Cimadamore Flavio , Amador-Arjona Alejandro , Farhy Chen , Huang Chun-Teng , Kornblum Harley , Terskikh Alexey V.
Published: February 2022

The effect of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs) on glioblastoma propagation cells (GPCs) is being debated [1-5]. We observed that exposure of GPCs to BMP2/4 initiates a rapid proteasomal degradation of the pluripotency factor SOX2 followed by the differentiation of GPCs into glial cells using 5 primary human glioblastoma lines tested. Enforced expression of SOX2 in GPCs antagonized BMP2/4-induced gliogenesis and reduction of proliferation. Both outcomes are consistent with the role of SOX2 in normal neurogenesis [6-8]. Using gene expression analysis, we observed that level of SOX2 in different glioblastoma lines tracks with the levels of oncogenes H/K/N-RAS and OLIG2. Our work provides support for BMP2/4-SOX2 axis in GPCs and points to the proteasome-regulated degradation of SOX2 that initiates glycogenic differentiation similar to that observed during normal development [6, 7]. Our work supports a potential for developing novel therapeutic strategies aimed at differentiation of GPC into non-tumorigenic glia.
Irreducible and site-symmetry-induced representations of single/double ordinary/grey layer groups
Authors: Nikolić Božidar , Milošević Ivanka , Vuković Tatjana , Lazić Nataša , Dmitrović Saša , Popović Zoran , Damnjanović Milan
Published: February 2022

Considered are 80 sets of layer groups, each set consisting of four groups: ordinary single and double, and grey single and double layer groups. The structural properties of layer groups (factorization into cyclic subgroups and the existence of grading according to the sequence of halving subgroups) enable efficient symbolic computation (by the POLSym code) of the relevant properties, real and complex irreducible and allowed (half-)integer (co-)representations in particular. This task includes, as the first step, classification of the irreducible domains based on the group action in the Brillouin zone combined with torus topology. Also, the band (co-)representations induced from the irreducible (co-)representations of Wyckoff-position stabilizers (site-symmetry groups) are decomposed into the irreducible components. These, and other layer group symmetry related theoretical data relevant for physics, layered materials in particular, are tabulated and made available through the web site https://nanolab.group/layer/.
Combinatorial aspects of the Löwenstein avoidance rule. Part II: local and global constraints
Authors: Moreira de Oliveira Jr Montauban , de Abreu Mendes Felipe , Eon Jean-Guillaume
Published: February 2022

The determination of the independence ratio of a periodic net requires finding a subgroup of the translation group of the net for which the quotient graph and a fundamental transversal have the same independence ratio; the respective motif defines a periodic factor of the net. This article deals with practical issues regarding the calculation of the independence ratio of mainly 2-periodic nets, with an application to the 200 2-periodic nets listed on the RCSR (Reticular Chemistry Structure Resource) site. A companion paper described a calculation technique of independence ratios of finite graphs based on propositional calculus. This paper focuses on criteria for the choice of the translation subgroup and of the transversal. The translation subgroup should be chosen in such a way as to eliminate every cycle in the quotient graph that is shorter than structural cycles, or rings, of the net. Topological constraints provide an upper bound to the independence ratio of 2-periodic nets and mostly enable the determination of the associated factor, thus giving a description of a periodic distribution in saturated solid solutions obeying some avoidance rule.
Taking gender ideologies seriously in climate change mitigation: a case study of Taiwan
Authors: Hung Li-San , Bayrak Mucahid Mustafa
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between gender ideologies and the motivation to mitigate climate change among a sample (N = 663) representative of the Taiwanese population, taking into account the different aspects of gender ideology measures and the multidimensionality of gender ideologies.

Design/methodology/approach

A landline-based telephone survey in Taiwan was used to collect research data. Pearson correlations were used to determine the associations between gender ideologies and motivation to mitigate climate change, and multiple regression analysis was performed to determine whether gender ideology measures were predictors for motivation to mitigate climate change.

Findings

The results suggested that the relationships between gender ideologies and mitigation motivation are complex, and that both traditional and egalitarian views of gender ideologies, measured using different scales, are positively associated with motivation. The dynamics of relationships among subgroups divided by gender and marital status need to be considered, as the relationships between gender ideologies and motivation are salient for unmarried individuals as well as married females.

Research limitations/implications

The findings support the premise that gender ideologies play an essential and complex role in individual climate change mitigation behaviors.

Originality/value

This is the first study that systematically examined the relationships between gender ideologies and motivation to mitigate climate change.
Factors that affect the adoption of RFID in the Saudi logistics industry: an empirical investigation
Authors: Mahdaly Khulood , Adeinat Iman
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the factors that affect the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in Saudi Arabia’s logistics services industry. The specific focus is the influence of key variables in multiple domains: technology (complexity and compatibility); organization (top management support, firm size, quality of human capital and integration of supply chain strategy); and environment (information intensity, competitive pressure, trading partner pressure and regulatory pressure).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained by distributing a survey instrument to a target sample of 459 Saudi logistics company employees whose positions meant they were well placed to explain the operations and technologies used in their organizations. In total, 459 useable responses were received, which also constituted the final sample for the analysis. The survey was validated using confirmatory factor analysis, and the study hypothesis was tested using binary logistic regression.

Findings

Of the firms represented in the data collected, 70% had not adopted RFID technology. Cost issues, technical issues and lack of industry standards were identified as the main factors hindering the decision to adopt RFID. The results of the binary logistic regression show that top management support, quality of human capital, firm size and trading partner pressure are the variables that most influence whether or not a firm adopts RFID technology.

Practical implications

According to the analysis, it is imperative that the industry adopt RFID given that this technology can provide strategic and operational advantages. Based on the findings, small and medium enterprises in the logistics services industry require governmental support in terms of providing funding, training and a supportive regulatory environment. Support of this nature would encourage logistics services companies to adopt new technology and move toward applying the global standards developed in the industry to date. Finally, in order to execute a clear and complete strategy across the supply chain, companies must collaborate with trading partners in implementing RFID.

Originality/value

The body of research on emerging markets does not include any empirical studies focused on the adoption of new technologies and innovation in the supply chain. Although researchers discuss applications of technologies in operational and supply chain processes across multiple industries, most of the published research on RFID technology focuses on European and North American contexts. This study is, therefore, much needed for its fundamental contribution to identifying and understanding the factors that affect RFID adoption decisions in emerging markets.
Are informal female workers better? Determinants of job stress on physical symptoms with risk-taking mental health stigma: a convergent-parallel approach
Authors: Daovisan Hanvedes , Mamom Jinpitcha
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Lao PDR is a developing country with increasing female participation in the informal labour market. However, these informal female workers are often emotionally and physically drained due to stress in the workplace. This study aims to examine the determinants of job stress on physical symptoms associated with the mental health stigma of informal female workers in Lao PDR.

Design/methodology/approach

A convergent parallel approach was used with 1,037 structured interviews and 15 in-depth interviews between October 2017 and June 2019. Fractional response regression was used to analyse the quantitative data and thematic analysis to analyse the qualitative data.

Findings

The quantitative data showed a positive effect on job stress and physical symptoms associated with mental health stigma. The qualitative data illustrated that job characteristics, work environment, time pressure, job control, complexity related to workload, physical working conditions and physical demand were associated with emotional distress, depressive symptoms and long-term self-stigma.

Practical implications

The study findings provide guidance for developing strategies for female workers in an informal economy to help mitigate the impacts of job stress related to physical symptoms and mental health stigma.

Originality/value

This study offers a deeper understanding of the emotional and physical stress experienced by informal female workers in the workplace in Lao PDR, showing that job stress due to the physical workload leads to mental health stigma.
CEO Narcissism and Global Performance Variance in Multinational Enterprises: The Roles of Foreign Direct Investment Risk‐Taking and Business Group Affiliation
Authors: Lee Jeoung Yul , Ha Yoo Jung , Wei Yingqi , Sarala Riikka M.
Published: February 2022

This study examines key mechanisms through which CEO narcissism influences global performance variance in the context of Asian emerging market multinational enterprises. Building on the contextual reinforcement model of narcissism and the cushion hypothesis, we focus on the role of foreign direct investment (FDI) risk‐taking and business group affiliation (BGA). We test our moderated mediation model on data from 149 South Korean multinational enterprises from 2006 to 2016. The results show that CEO narcissism is positively associated with FDI risk‐taking. The effect of CEO narcissism on global performance variance is mediated by FDI risk‐taking. Furthermore, BGA moderates the above‐mentioned relationships. Our findings offer important contributions to the international business and CEO narcissism literatures.
Does female participation in strategic decision‐making roles matter for corporate social responsibility performance?
Authors: Bose Sudipta , Hossain Sarowar , Sobhan Abdus , Handley Karen
Published: February 2022

We examine the association between female participation in strategic decision‐making roles and corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance using a sample of United States firms from 2001 to 2018. Female participation in strategic decision‐making roles is measured using: (i) the female presence in different positions on the board of directors, such as female board member, independent board member, chairperson and audit committee member; and (ii) the female presence in top management roles, such as chief executive officer (CEO) and chief financial officer (CFO). We find that female participation in strategic decision‐making roles is positively associated with CSR performance. In investigating the ‘tokenism’ aspect of female participation on the board, our results contradict the ‘tokenism’ argument for appointing females to boards, instead supporting their real influence on CSR performance. These findings are important to regulators, policy makers, company management and other stakeholders with an interest in how increased female participation in strategic decision‐making roles influences CSR performance.
Histological, histochemical, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical identification and characterization of the neurosecretory cells of the adult rabbit's adrenal medulla
Authors: Moawad Usama Kamal , Soliman Shehata Mohamed Mohamed , Mazher Khaled Mohamed , Hassan Randa Mohamed , Nabil Taghreed Mohamed
Published: February 2022

The present investigation was conducted on the adrenal glands of 40 adult New Zealand rabbits of both sexes to characterize and identify the histological, histochemical, ultrastructural, and immunohistochemical features of the neurosecretory cells of the adrenal medulla. The obtained specimens of adrenal medulla were subjected to routine histological techniques and then stained with different histological stains, including general, non‐specific, specific, and highly specific stains for neurosecretory cells, in addition to immunohistochemical reactions. The obtained results showed two types of adrenal medullary neurosecretory cells containing secretory granules (SGs) of different electron densities: adrenaline and noradrenaline (NA) secreting cells. These secretory granules showed a strong positive reaction to the Grimelius silver impregnation technique. Sections stained with Gomori's chrome alum haematoxylin stain, and the secretory granules showed a strong dark blackish‐blue positive colour. The medullary cells showed typical chromaffin reactions when stained by H&E and Giemsa stains after formol dichromate ‘Ortha's fluid’ fixation. The noradrenaline secretory granules gave a strong positive Schmorl's test, while the adrenaline ones showed a moderate reaction. Immunohistochemically, the adrenal medullary cells were subjected to anti‐chromogranin A (CHGA) antibody using the PAP technique, which gave positive reactions.
Historical underground quarrying: A multidisciplinary research in the Caumont quarry (c. 13th–19th centuries), France
Authors: Ballesteros Daniel , Nehme Carole , Roussel Bastien , Delisle François , Pons‐Branchu Edwige , Mouralis Damase
Published: February 2022

Quarries represent ‘landscapes archives’ as they supplied the stone required for historical buildings. Among them, the Caumont ancient quarry stands out in northern France, with its huge dimensions and its historical role, providing building stones at a regional scale since at least the Middle Ages. The present study aims to approach the quarrying methods used over time in Caumont by means of an optimized methodological approach. The designed methodology combines (1) the 3D modelling of the quarry, (2) archaeological prospection, (3) stratigraphical and microscopical study of the quarried bedrock, and (4) the geochronological approach in stalagmites precipitated inside the quarry. The studied quarry of Caumont was excavated as an open‐cast quarry beginning with the escarpments along the River Seine and transformed later to an underground quarry supported by contoured bedrock pillars. The underground quarry with its 12 km of galleries shows a chambers‐and‐pillars pattern style excavated using two methods, producing an inferred volume of 273,529 m3 of building stone. The U–Th dating of two stalagmites suggests that quarrying activity had begun since at least the early medieval period and agrees with the excavation techniques and historical documents.
Higher anticholinergic burden from medications is associated with significant increase in markers of inflammation in the EPIC‐Norfolk prospective population‐based cohort study
Authors: Sanghavi Ria , Pana Tiberiu A. , Mamayusupova Hulkar , Maidment Ian , Fox Chris , Boekholdt S. Matthijs , Mamas Mamas A. , Wareham Nicholas J. , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Myint Phyo K.
Published: February 2022

Background

Higher medication anticholinergic burden is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. A mechanistic pathway has not been established. We aimed to determine whether inflammation may mediate these associations.

Methods

Participants were drawn from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer, Norfolk cohort (40‐79 years at baseline). Anticholinergic burden score (ACB) was calculated at first (1HC) (1993/97) and second (2HC) (1998/2000) health checks. Fibrinogen and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were measured during 1HC and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin 6 (IL‐6) during 2HC. Cross‐sectional associations between ACB and inflammatory markers were examined for both health checks. Prospective associations were also examined between 1HC ACB and 2HC inflammatory markers. Models were adjusted for age, sex, lifestyle factors, comorbidities and medications.

Results

In total, 17 678 and 22 051 participants were included in cross‐sectional analyses for CRP, and fibrinogen, respectively. Furthermore, 5101 participants with data on TNF‐α and IL‐6 were included in the prospective analyses. Cross‐sectionally, compared to ACB = 0, ACB ≥ 4 was associated with higher fibrinogen, beta (95% confidence interval) = 0.134 g/L (0.070, 0.199), CRP 1.175 mg/L (0.715, 1.634), IL‐6 0.593 pg/mL (0.254, 0.932) and TNF‐α 0.137 pg/mL (0.033, 0.241). In addition, a point increase in ACB was associated with higher levels of all markers. Prospectively, compared to ACB = 0, ACB ≥ 4 was associated with higher IL‐6(pg/mL) of 0.019 (−0.323, 0.361) and TNF‐α (pg/mL) of 0.202% (0.81, 0.323). A unit increase in ACB was associated with a significantly higher TNF‐α and IL‐6.

Conclusion

Higher ACB was associated with higher inflammatory markers. Inflammation may mediate the relationship between anticholinergic medications and adverse outcomes.
Analysis of chromatin accessibility in p53 deficient spermatogonial stem cells for high frequency transformation into pluripotent state
Authors: Liu Sitong , Wei Rui , Liu Hongyang , Liu Ruiqi , Li Pengxiao , Zhang Xiaoyu , Wei Wei , Zhao Xiaodong , Li Xiaomeng , Yang Yang , Fu Xueqi , Zou Kang
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), the germline stem cells (GSCs) committed to spermatogenesis in niche, can transform into pluripotent state in long‐term culture without introduction of exogenous factors, typically in p53 deficiency condition. As the guardian for genomic stability, p53 is associated with epigenetic alterations during SSCs transformation. However, the mechanism is still unknown, since complicated roles of p53 baffle our understanding of the regulating process.

Materials and Methods

The chromatin accessibility and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analysed in p53+/+ and p53−/− SSCs using the Assay for Transposase‐Accessible Chromatin with high‐throughput Sequencing (ATAC‐seq) and RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq), to explore the connection of p53 and cell fate at chromosomal level.

Results

Several transcription factors (TFs), such as CTCF, SMAD3 and SOX2, were predicted as important factors mediating the transformation. Molecular evidence suggested that SMAD3 efficiently promoted pluripotency‐associated gene expression both in fresh and long‐term cultured SSCs. However, p53 knockout (KO) is insufficient to induce SMAD3 expression in SSCs.

Conclusions

These observations indicate that SMAD3 is a key factor for SSCs transformation, and an unknown event is required to activate SMAD3 as the prerequisite for SSCs reprogramming, which may occur in the long‐term culture of SSCs. This study demonstrates the connection of p53 and pluripotency‐associated factors, providing new insight for understanding the mechanisms of SSCs reprogramming and germline tumorigenesis.
The difficulties of context: An exploratory study of learning transfer from a business simulation game
Authors: Scherpereel Christopher M. , Williams Susan K. , Hoefle Scott
Published: February 2022

Studies show that learning is situated—or that learning in one context does not easily transfer to a new context. Because business simulations are often used to provide a learning context, we wondered if this context‐specific learning would transfer. To explore this issue, we used situated learning theory to ask undergraduate students in an operations management class to apply their learning in both familiar, simulation contexts, and unfamiliar, nonsimulation contexts. Using contextually based exam questions, we empirically measured learner performance on low and high cognitive effort questions. We were able to provide some support for the constructivist learning theory's hypothesis that learners can take the principles constructed in a business simulation and apply them in other contexts. Additionally, we explored the implications of confidence/self‐efficacy theory and demonstrated that transfer may differ based on cognitive effort.