bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rising floor and dropping ceiling: organ heterogeneity in response to cold acclimation of the largest extant amphibian
Authors: Zhu Wei , Zhao Chunlin , Zhao Tian , Chang Liming , Chen Qiheng , Liu Jiongyu , Li Cheng , Xie Feng , Jiang Jianping
Published: October 2022

Low temperature imposes strong selective pressure on ectotherms. To maximize their overall fitness under cold conditions, the ectotherms may either try to maintain their physiological activities through metabolic compensation or enter into metabolic depression; however, some species adopt both strategies to cope with different degrees of cold. Nevertheless, how these two seemingly opposite strategies are coordinated has rarely been elucidated. Here, we investigated the molecular strategy underlying the cold acclimation ofAndrias davidianus, the largest extant amphibian, using multi-organ metabolomics and transcriptomics. The results showed remarkable organ heterogeneity in response to cold. While most organs showed transcriptional upregulation of metabolic processes, the heart exhibited downregulation. This heterogeneity explained the adaptive reorganization in resource allocation, which compensates for metabolic maintenance by compromising growth. Importantly, the cardiac function might constitute a ‘ceiling’ to constrain the space for compensation, especially under colder conditions. Additionally, the opposite transcriptional regulation of oxidative phosphorylation and other pathways might also shape the overall metabolic capacity under cold conditions. The heterogeneity in cold responses may have directed a shift in cold adaptive strategy from compensation to depression with a drop in temperature. These results provide a novel insight into the regulatory mechanisms underlying cold survival strategies of ectotherms.
Large genetic divergence underpins cryptic local adaptation across ecological and evolutionary gradients
Authors: Sparks Morgan M. , Kraft Joshua C. , Blackstone Kliffi M. S. , McNickle Gordon G. , Christie Mark R.
Published: October 2022

Environmentally covarying local adaptation is a form of cryptic local adaptation in which the covariance of the genetic and environmental effects on a phenotype obscures the divergence between locally adapted genotypes. Here, we systematically document the magnitude and drivers of the genetic effect (V
G
) for two forms of environmentally covarying local adaptation: counter- and cogradient variation. Using a hierarchical Bayesian meta-analysis, we calculated the overall effect size of V
G
as 1.05 and 2.13 for populations exhibiting countergradient or cogradient variation, respectively. These results indicate that the genetic contribution to phenotypic variation represents a 1.05 to 2.13 s.d. change in trait value between the most disparate populations depending on if populations are expressing counter- or cogradient variation. We also found that while there was substantial variance among abiotic and biotic covariates, the covariates with the largest mean effects were temperature (2.41) and gamete size (2.81). Our results demonstrate the pervasiveness and large genetic effects underlying environmentally covarying local adaptation in wild populations and highlight the importance of accounting for these effects in future studies.
Ion Gradient-driven Bifurcations of a Multi-Scale Neuronal Model
Authors: Chesebro Anthony G. , Mujica-Parodi Lilianne R. , Weistuch Corey
Published: October 2022

Metabolic limitations within the brain frequently arise in the context of aging and disease. As the largest consumers of energy within the brain, ion pumps that maintain the neuronal membrane potential are the most affected when energy supply becomes limited. To characterize the effects of such limitations, we analyze the ion gradients present in the Larter-Breakspear neural mass model. We show the existence and locations of Neimark-Sacker and period-doubling bifurcations in the sodium, calcium, and potassium reversal potentials, and demonstrate that these bifurcations form physiologically relevant bounds of ion gradient variability. Within these bounds, we show how depolarization of the gradients will cause decreased neural activity. We also show that the depolarization of ion gradients decreases inter-regional coherence, causing a shift in the critical point at which the coupling occurs and thereby inducing loss of synchrony between regions. In this way, we show that the Larter-Breakspear model captures ion gradient variability present at the microscale level and propagates these changes to the macroscale effects congruent with those observed in human neuroimaging studies.
Intensity and appreciation of sweet taste solutions are modulated by high-intensity aerobic exercise in adolescent athletic males
Authors: Gauthier Alexandre-Charles , Villeneuve Marc-Étienne , Cournoyer Mathieu , Mathieu Marie-Eve
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Exercise tends to reduce subsequent meal intake, but mechanisms are still unclear. Interestingly, exercise seems to influence taste, which plays a role in energy intake. The effect of exercise on specific tastes is still to be elucidated, especially among younger participants who train at high intensity.

Methods

Adolescents (14-16 years old) were recruited from a high school boys hockey team. Distinct taste tests were administered using low and high concentrations of sweet (sucrose 41.0 & 82.0 g/L), salty (sodium chloride 8.7 & 17.4 g/L) and bitter (caffeine 5.0 & 10.0 g/L) solutions before and after a 30 min aerobic high-intensity exercise session (70-90% of estimated maximal heart rate). McNemmar’s tests, standard paired T tests, Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test and Cohen’s d effect size tests were used to analyze the data.

Results

Participants (n=19) were 14.7±0.7 years old, weighed 59.6±7.8kg, had a height of 173.4±7.9cm, and a bodyfat% of 11.6±3.1%. There were no significant differences in taste identification capacities. Participants (n=19) perceived as more intense (+31%, p=0.037) and appreciated better the low concentration sweet solution (+20%, p=0.004). Taste appreciation was also increased for the high concentration sweet solution (+15%, p=0.009). Effect sizes were medium [0.516-0.776].

Conclusion

High-intensity exercise influenced the perception of sweet taste. If higher taste intensity and appreciation of sweet can reduce energy intake, our results could help explain the effect of exercise on lowering subsequent energy intake.
Reduction in maternal mortality ratio varies by district in Sidama Regional State, southern Ethiopia: Estimates by cross-sectional studies using the sisterhood method and a household survey of pregnancy and birth outcomes
Authors: Kea Aschenaki Zerihun , Lindtjorn Bernt , Gebretsadik Achamyelesh , Hinderaker Sven Gudmund
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Maternal mortality studies conducted at national level do not provide subnational and local estimates useful for program planning and monitoring maternal mortality at lower administrative level. The aim of this study was to estimate life time risk (LTR) of maternal death and maternal mortality ratio (MMR), assess variations and reduction in MMR in Sidama Regional State, southern Ethiopia.

Methods

This is cross-sectional study employed the sisterhood method as part of larger household maternal mortality survey that used a 5-year recall of pregnancy and birth outcomes. We visited 8880 households and interviewed 17444 respondents 15-49 years age. We assessed reduction in MMR using the sisterhood method (main focus of this paper) and a household survey of pregnancy and birth outcomes.

Result

We analysed 17374 (99.6%) respondents; 8884 (51.1%) men and 8490 (48.9%) women. The 17,374 respondents reported 64,387 maternal sisters who had reached reproductive age. Among these, 2,402 (3.7%) sisters had died; 776 (32.3%) were pregnancy related deaths. The LTR of maternal death was 3.2% and MMR was 623 (95% CI: 573-658) per 100000 live births (LB), with reference to year 2010. The remote district (Aroresa) had a MMR of 1210 (95% CI: 1027-1318) per 100,000 LB. Assessment of MMR reduction using the two maternal mortality estimation methods showed that the MMR in Sidama Regional State declined over the past years. Significant reduction in MMR was observed in districts located near the regional centre. However, no reduction was observed in districts located distant to the regional centre.

Conclusion

The high MMR with district level variations and lack of mortality reduction in districts located distant to the centre highlights the need for instituting interventions tailored to the local context to save mothers and accelerate reduction in MMR.
Knockdown resistance (kdr) Associated organochlorine Resistance in human head lice: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abbasi Ebrahim , Nasiri Zahra , Mohammadi Jalal , Yazdani Zahra , Mohseni Shokrollah
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Pediculosis is one of the vector-borne diseases that has spread in most regions of the world and has affected many populations. In previous decades, organochlorine poisons were used to treat it. But resistance to treatment against this group of insecticides affected its control. Based on this, the present study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of Knockdown Resistance in human head lice against organochlorine insecticides in the world in the form of a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

To determine the prevalence of Knockdown Resistance against organochlorine insecticides, all English and non-English articles (at least with English titles and abstracts) were published worldwide without a time limit until the end of May 2022 and were extracted and analyzed. Statistical analysis of the data was done using statistical tests of fixed and random effects model in the meta-analysis, Cochrane, meta-regression, and I2 index.

Results

8 articles with a sample size of 7249 head lice were included in the meta-analysis process. The prevalence of knockdown resistance was estimated at 65.3%. Also, the prevalence of homozygote resistance was 71.9% and heterozygote resistance was 28.1%.

Conclusion

Based on the findings, more than half of the lice were resistant to organochlorine insecticides. As a result, due to the high prevalence of resistance, it is recommended to determine the resistance against them before using this group of insecticides to treat pediculosis and then adopting the appropriate treatment.
Plant defensin MtDef4-derived antifungal peptide with multiple modes of action and potential as a bioinspired fungicide
Authors: Tetorya Meenakshi , Li Hui , Djami-Tchatchou Arnaud Thierry , Buchko Garry W. , Czymmek Kirk J. , Shah Dilip M.
Published: October 2022

Chemical fungicides have been instrumental in protecting crops from fungal diseases. However, mounting fungal resistance to many of the single-site chemical fungicides calls for the development of new antifungal agents with novel modes of action (MoA). The sequence-divergent cysteine-rich antifungal defensins with multi-site MoA are promising starting templates for design of novel peptide-based fungicides. Here, we experimentally tested such a set of 17-amino acid peptides containing the γ-core motif of the antifungal plant defensin MtDef4. These designed peptides exhibited antifungal properties different from those of MtDef4. Focused analysis of a lead peptide, GMA4CG_V6, showed it was a random coil in solution with little or no secondary structure elements. Additionally, it exhibited potent cation-tolerant antifungal activity against the plant fungal pathogenBotrytis cinerea, causal agent of gray mold disease in fruits and vegetables. Its multi-site MoA involved localization predominantly to the plasma membrane, permeabilization of the plasma membrane, rapid internalization into the vacuole and cytoplasm, and affinity for bioactive phosphoinositides phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P), PI4P, and PI5P. The sequence motif RRRW was identified as a major determinant of the antifungal activity of this peptide. While topical spray-application of GMA4CG_V6 onNicotiana benthamianaand tomato plants provided preventative and curative suppression of gray mold disease symptoms, the peptide was not internalized into plant cells. Our findings open the possibility that truncated and modified defensin-derived peptides containing the γ-core sequence could serve as promising candidates for further development as bioinspired fungicides.
Integrating current analyses of the breast cancer microbiome
Authors: Sohail Sidra , Burns Michael B.
Published: October 2022

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death for women in the US (American Cancer Society: About Breast Cancer, n.d.). Many cancer types have significant associations with their resident microbial communities - emerging evidence suggests that breast cancers also interact with the local tissue-associated microbiota. Studies have examined the relationship between breast cancer and its microbiome, however, the studies varied in their approaches used to evaluate these relationships. Microbiome research advances rapidly and analysis pipelines and databases are updated frequently. This dynamic environment makes inter-study comparisons and superficial evaluations challenging as no two studies are using the same standards for evaluation.

Researchers have observed the microbiota of tumor tissue, surrounding normal sites, and healthy breast tissue from non-cancer individuals (Hieken et al., 2016; Urbaniak et al., 2016; Xuan et al., 2014), but they have not been able to translate their findings into information that can be used for breast cancer treatment or detection nor address what affect studying different variable regions has in their analysis. Within the majority of these studies, comparisons of the tumor tissue with adjacent normal tissue has revealed differences. This project will integrate all available studies related to breast cancer and the mammary microbiome to 1 reassess the original findings in light of advances in this rapidly progressing field and 2 incorporate all the data available as a large meta-analysis to identify general trends and specific differences across patient cohorts and studies.
Impact of Omicron Wave and Associated Infection Prevention and Control Measures in Shanghai on Health Management and Psychosocial Well-Being of Patients with Chronic Conditions
Authors: Xu Zhimin , de Melo Ghisi Gabriela Lima , Liu Xia , Cui Lixian , Grace Sherry L
Published: October 2022

Background

COVID-19 and associated controls may be particularly problematic in the context of chronic conditions. This study investigated health management, well-being, and pandemic-related perspectives in these patients in the context of stringent measures, and associated correlates.

Methods

A self-report survey was administered via Wenjuanxing in Simplified Chinese between March-June 2022 during the Omicron wave lockdown in Shanghai, China. Items from the Somatic Symptom Scale (SSS) and Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) were administered, as well as pandemic-related items created by a working group of the Chinese Preventive Medical Association. Chronic disease patients in this cross-sectional study were recruited through an associated community family physician group.

Results

Overall, 1775 patients, mostly married females with hypertension, participated. Mean SSS scores were 36.1±10.5/80, with 41.5% scoring in the elevated range (i.e., above 36). In an adjusted model, female, diagnosis of coronary artery disease and arrhythmia, perceived impact of pandemic on life, duration can tolerate control measures, perception of future & control measures, impact of pandemic on health condition and change to exercise routine due to pandemic were significantly associated with greater distress. Approximately one-quarter (24.5%) perceived the pandemic had a permanent impact on their life, and 44.1% perceived at least a minor impact on their health. One-third (33.5%) discontinued exercise due to the pandemic. While 47.6% stocked up on their medications before the lockdown, their remaining supply was mostly only enough for a couple of weeks and 17.5% of participants discontinued use. Chief among their fears were inability to access healthcare (83.2%), and what they stated they most needed to manage their condition was medication access (65.6%).

Conclusions

Since 2020 when we assessed a similar cohort, distress and perceived impact of the pandemic has worsened. Greater access to cardiac rehabilitation in China could address these issues.
Meristem dormancy in a dichotomous branching system is regulated by a liverwort-specific miRNA and a clade III SPL gene in Marchantia polymorpha
Authors: Streubel Susanna , Deiber Sebastian , Roetzer Johannes , Mosiolek Magdalena , Jandrasits Katharina , Dolan Liam
Published: October 2022

The shape of modular organisms depends on branching architecture, which in plants is determined by the fates of generative centres called meristems. The branches of the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha are derived from two adjacent meristems that develop at thallus apices. These meristems may be active and develop branches or may be dormant and do not form branches. The relative number and position of active and dormant meristems defines overall shape and form of the thallus. We show that the clade III SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN LIKE (SPL) transcription factor, MpSPL1, is required for meristem dormancy. The activity of MpSPL1 is regulated by the liverwort-specific Mpo-MR13 miRNA which in turn is regulated by PIF-mediated phytochrome signaling. An unrelated miRNA, MIR156, represses a different SPL gene (belonging to clade IV) that inhibits branching during the shade avoidance response in Arabidopsis thaliana. This suggests that a conserved mechanism of phytochrome signaling modulates branching architecture in liverworts and angiosperms and therefore likely operated in the last common ancestor. However, PIF-mediated phytochrome signaling represses the expression of different miRNA genes with different SPL targets during dichotomous, apical branching in liverworts and during lateral, subapical branching in angiosperms. We speculate that the mechanism that acts downstream of light and regulates meristem dormancy evolved independently in liverworts and angiosperms.
Piezo2 voltage-block regulates mechanical pain sensitivity
Authors: Carranza Oscar Sánchez , Chakrabarti Sampurna , Kühnemund Johannes , Schwaller Fred , Bégay Valérie , Lewin Gary R.
Published: October 2022

PIEZO2 mechanosensitive channels are required for normal touch sensation. However, PIEZO2 channels are almost completely blocked at negative resting membrane potentials. We show that PIEZO2 voltage-block can be relieved by mutations at a conserved Arginine (R2756) which dramatically sensitizes the channel to mechanical stimuli. We generated Piezo2R2756H/R2756H and Piezo2R2756K/R2756Kknock-in mice to ask how voltage regulates the endogenous mechanosensitivity of sensory neurons. Surprisingly, mechanosensitive currents in nociceptors, neurons that detect noxious mechanical stimuli, were substantially sensitized in Piezo2 knock-in mice, but touch receptors were largely unaffected. Piezo2 knock-in mice were hypersensitive to noxious mechanical stimuli as their nociceptors acquired properties similar to ultrasensitive touch receptors. Thus, mechanical pain sensitivity can be tuned by voltage-block of PIEZO2 channels, a channel property potentially amenable for pharmacological modulation.
SUBTLE DIFFERENCES IN FINE POLYSACCHARIDE STRUCTURES GOVERN SELECTION AND SUCCESSION OF HUMAN GUT MICROBIOTA
Authors: Yao Tianming , Deemer Dane G. , Chen Ming-Hsu , Reuhs Bradly L. , Hamaker Bruce R. , Lindemann Stephen R.
Published: October 2022

Dietary fibers are fermented in the human gut and are known to modulate microbiome composition and metabolic function, but few studies have explored to what extent the small variations in complex fiber structures impact community assembly, microbial division of labor, and organismal metabolic responses across individuals’ microbiome structures. To test the hypothesis that subtle linkage variations in chemical structures of polysaccharides afford different ecological niches for distinct communities and metabolism, we employed a 7-day in vitro sequential batch fermentation with fecal inocula from individual donors and measured microbial responses using an integrated multi-omics approach. We fermented two sorghum arabinoxylans (SAXs) as model complex polysaccharides, with fecal microbiota from three donors and an artificially high diversity mix of all three. Although differences in sugar linkage profiles across SAXs were subtle, surprisingly, consortia fermenting different AXs revealed distinct species-level genomic diversity and metabolic outcomes with nearly-identical strains on each polysaccharide across inocula. Carbohydrate active enzyme (CAZyme) genes in metagenomes revealed broad AX-related hydrolytic potentials; however, CAZyme genes enriched in different AX-fermenting consortia were specific to SAX type and displayed various catabolic domain fusions with diverse accessory motifs, suggesting they may be functionally degenerate and this degeneracy may relate to fine substrate structure. These results suggest that fine polysaccharide structure exerts deterministic selection effect for distinct fermenting consortia, which are present amongst unrelated individuals.
Differential expression analysis of sexual and apomicticBoecherauncoversFAS4as crucial for gametogenesis
Authors: Binmöller Laura , Volkert Christopher , Kiefer Christiane , Zühl Luise , Slawinska Magdalena W. , Loreth Anna , Nauerth Berit H. , Ibberson David , Martinez Rafael , Zipper Reinhard , Kohnle Maike , Schmidt Anja
Published: October 2022

During sexual reproduction of higher plants, seed formation is initiated by double fertilization of egg and central cell. In contrast, pseudogamous apomicts form embryos asexually by parthenogenesis of the egg, but initiation of endosperm development still depends on central cell fertilization. It can be envisioned that these differences are determined during gametogenesis and specification of gametophytic cells. To deepen the understanding of the transcriptional basis underlying sexual and apomictic reproduction, we applied tissue type-specific RNA-Seq. We compared expression in reproductive tissues of differentBoecheraaccessions at distinct developmental stages. This confirmed previous evidence for an enrichment of RNA helicases at onset of reproductive development. We further identified a small number of members of this gene family as differentially expressed in female reproductive ovule tissues harbouring mature gametophytes from apomictic and sexual accessions. This included homologues ofA. thaliana FASCIATED STEM 4(FAS4) and ofENHANCED SILENCING PHENOTYPE 3(ESP3), which have previously been identified as potential candidates for gametogenesis and apomixis, respectively. Unlike inA. thaliana, for either of them additional homologues or copies of related genes are present inBoechera, indicating complex evolutionary histories. As the expression patterns implied potential roles ofFAS4during gametogenesis, we first studiedA. thalianalines carrying mutant alleles. Indeed, we observed defects during male and female gametogenesis and severely reduced transmission efficiencies through both parents. In conclusion, our study identifiesFAS4as crucial for plant reproduction and suggests the potential for sub-functionalization of additional homologous genes inBoecherato shape reproductive development.
A model-based constrained deep learning clustering approach for spatially resolved single-cell data
Authors: Lin Xiang , Gao Le , Whitener Nathan , Ahmed Ashley , Wei Zhi
Published: October 2022

Spatially resolved scRNA-seq (sp-scRNA-seq) technologies provide the potential to comprehensively profile gene expression patterns in tissue context. However, the development of computational methods lags behind the advances in these technologies, which limits the fulfillment of their potential. In this study, we develop a deep learning approach for clustering sp-scRNA-seq data, named Deep Spatially constrained Single-cell Clustering (DSSC). In this model, we integrate the spatial information of cells into the clustering process in two steps: (1) the spatial information is encoded by using a graphical neural network model, and (2) cell-to-cell constraints are built based on the spatial expression pattern of the marker genes and added in the model to guide the clustering process. Then, a deep embedding clustering is performed on the bottleneck layer of autoencoder by Kullback–Leibler (KL) divergence along with the learning of feature representation. DSSC is the first model that can use information from both spatial coordinates and marker genes to guide cell/spot clustering. Extensive experiments on both simulated and real data sets show that DSSC boosts clustering performance significantly compared with the state-of-the-art methods. It has robust performance across different data sets with various cell type/tissue organization and/or cell type/tissue spatial dependency. We conclude that DSSC is a promising tool for clustering sp-scRNA-seq data.
Improving arts management/marketing efficiency: optimizing utilization of scarce resources to produce artistic outputs
Authors: Kirchner Theresa A. , Golden Linda L. , Brockett Patrick L.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This longitudinal research examines US symphony orchestra sector organizations to determine individual efficiencies in allocating resources (donations, governmental/private funding, etc.) for desirable outputs (concerts, educational programs, community outreach). It provides researchers and managers with a tool for identifying, assessing and mitigating organizational inefficiencies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assesses relative efficiencies in performing arts organizations using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), a widely-used nonparametric data-intensive benchmarking technique that determines an optimal “production frontier” of best-practice organizations among their peers and assesses their abilities to turn multivariate inputs into multivariate desired outputs.

Findings

This analysis highlights efficiency differences in a wide range of orchestras in converting available resources into performance-related outputs. It provides individual arts organizations with useful results for developing practical benchmarks to achieve organizational efficiency improvement.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides constructive benchmarking guidance for improving efficiencies of relatively-inefficient organizations. Future analysis can expand the scope to utilize a two-stage DEA model to provide more specific guidance to arts organizations.

Practical implications

This pragmatic analysis enables arts/culture institutions to assess their organizational efficiencies and identify opportunities to optimize resources in producing social outputs for their target markets.

Social implications

Efficiency improvements enable performing arts organizations to provide additional artistic/social services, with fewer resources, to larger audiences.

Originality/value

This research demonstrates the abilities of DEA analysis to assess both a sector and its individual organizations to determine efficiencies, identify sources of inefficiencies and assess longitudinal efficiency trends.
Flexible future learning opportunities for built environment professionals – a case study
Authors: Poon Joanna
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper discusses the redevelopment of MSc Civil Engineering and Construction Management of a modern university in the Midlands of the UK in recent years, with the aim to offer flexible future learning opportunities for built environment professionals and address the sector's skill shortage concerns (Augar Review, 2019 and 2021; Department for Education (DfE), 2020 and 2021; Foresight Review, 2017).

Design/methodology/approach

The research method is insider action research and a case study approach. It involves interviews with external and internal stakeholders who contributed to this redevelopment and review of relevant documents related to the development.

Findings

The research finding showed that both the internal and external stakeholders welcome the proposed redevelopment of postgraduate courses in Civil Engineering and Construction Management. They found the course offers opportunities for civil engineering and construction professionals to further develop their skills and to address government initiatives on flexible and future learning. The online offer of the course is attractive to potential students. It has brought a substantial financial return to the university and created a new international presence of the course and the university.

Research limitations/implications

It has been argued that an insider research approach may have an advantage in accessing information compared to other research methods. The case study approach may have limitations on generalisability.

Practical implications

This research can be used as an example for other universities that aim to enhance their existing offers to address government initiatives and enhance financial viability.

Originality/value

This paper is a pilot study examining a university's response to skill shortage and government proposal on flexible learning for adults through redevelopment and enhancement of the offer of the existing postgraduate courses.
A dichotomy between democracy and personal freedom on the spread of COVID-19
Authors: Ang Joshua Ping , Gao Guanlin , Sparks Andrew
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The authors analyze the effects of political freedom and personal freedom on the spread of COVID-19 in a cross-country study. The authors also investigate how income inequality, urbanization and previous experience with a similar respiratory epidemic/pandemic, such as SARS and MERS, affect the spread of COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ data from 102 countries to examine the relationship of countries' economic and sociopolitical factors, such as political freedom and personal freedom and their COVID-19 infection cases per million population at 120 days, 150 days and 180 days after the reported 10th infection case. The authors also include the log term of real GDP per capita to control for counties' economic development and regional dummies to control for regional-specific effects.

Findings

Results of this study show that personal freedom, rather than democracy, has a significant positive effect on countries' COVID-19 infection cases. On the contrary, democracy has a negative impact on the infection rate. The authors also find that socioeconomic factors such as higher income inequality and urbanization rate adversely affect the COVID-19 infection cases. A larger older population is associated with fewer infection cases, holding everything else equal. Previous experiences with the coronavirus crisis affect countries only at the 120 days mark. Real GDP per capita has no significant effect.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is to jointly explore personal freedom, which implies a social framework with more emphasis on self-value and self-realization and political freedom, that is, democracy. The authors show that it is personal freedom, rather than democracy, that contributes to higher COVID-19 infection cases. Democracy, on the other hand, reduces the number of infection cases.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-12-2021-0769
Developing a framework for unethical consumer behaviour: a qualitative study in two countries
Authors: Al‐Msallam Samaan , Abdelhadi Amal
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper examines factors that lead consumers to engage in unethical consumer behaviour (UECB) to develop a framework for understanding this phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

The study data were collected using the qualitative approach by conducting personal interviews with 27 marketers in two Arab countries, Libya and Syria.

Findings

The findings indicate that previous models of UECB are applicable to Arab consumers. However, the effects of the examined factors on UECB adoption are influenced by the local environment. Also, the paper explored some newly factors that clearly affect UECB.

Practical implications

This study provides a model of UECB for Arab consumers to help companies to understand Arab consumers’ behaviour. This model determines the influencing factors on this behaviour that companies can use to build their marketing strategies directed at the Libyan and Syrian markets during the reconstruction phase. Moreover, the research results help companies avoid and control UECB.

Originality/value

Almost all studies of UECB have been conducted in Western countries; the present study attempts to address this gap in the ethical decision-making literature, as well as marketing literature, and examine the UECB in Arab countries. Furthermore, previous studies of UECB mostly look at one typical form of UECB; this study provides a broader contribution to the literature on UECB by using a set of scenarios; shoplifting, software piracy and pilfering from hotel rooms.
Economic growth, international trade, and environmental degradation in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ssekibaala Daaki Sadat , Ariffin Muhammad Irwan , Duasa Jarita
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study investigates the relationship between economic growth, international trade, and environmental degradation in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), focusing on the validity of the environmental Kuznets hypothesis (EKC), the pollution havens hypothesis (PHH), and the factor endowment hypothesis (FEH).

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses annual data for 41 SSA countries between 1990 and 2017 and employs the bias-corrected least square dummy variable (LSDVC) estimation techniques. Environmental degradation is indicated by carbon dioxide (CO2), delicate particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions, and deforestation.

Findings

The results confirm the validity of the EKC hypothesis for PM2.5 emissions and deforestation but not for CO2 emissions. The results also indicate that international trade reduces deforestation and that both the PHH and FEH are valid for CO2 emission but not for PM2.5 emissions and deforestation.

Practical implications

In this paper, the authors are able to illustrate that both economic growth and international trade can harm the environment if unchecked. Therefore, the conclusion of this study offers policy options through which SSA countries can achieve desired economic growth goals without affecting environmental quality. The study can be a benchmark for environmental policy in the region.

Originality/value

The authors provide an in-depth discussion of the growth-trade-environmental degradation nexus in SSA. The EKC, PHH, and FEH’s validity confirm that economic growth remains a threat to the local natural environment in SSA. Hence, the need for a trade-off between economic growth needs and environmental degradation and understanding where to compromise to achieve SSA's economic development priorities.
CECL: Timely Loan Loss Provisioning and Bank Regulation
Authors: MAHIEUX LUCAS , SAPRA HARESH , ZHANG GAOQING
Published: October 2022

We investigate how provisioning models interact with bank regulation to affect banks' risk‐taking behavior. We study an accuracy versus timeliness trade‐off between an incurred loss model (IL) and an expected loss model (EL) such as current expected credit loss model or International Financial Reporting Standards 9. Relative to IL, even though EL improves efficiency by prompting earlier corrective action in bad times, it induces banks to originate either safer or riskier loans. Trading off ex post benefits versus ex ante real effects, we show that more timely information under EL enhances efficiency either when banks are insufficiently capitalized or when regulatory intervention is likely to be effective. Conversely, when banks are moderately capitalized and regulatory intervention is sufficiently costly, switching to EL impairs efficiency. From a policy perspective, our analysis highlights the roles that regulatory capital and the effectiveness of regulatory intervention play in determining the economic consequences of provisioning models. EL spurs credit supply and improves financial stability in economies where intervening in banks' operations is relatively frictionless and/or regulators can tailor regulatory capital to incorporate information about credit losses.
Protein pyrrole adducts are associated with elevated glucose indices and clinical features of diabetic diffuse neuropathies
Authors: Chen Xiao , Jiang Zhuyi , Zhang Lianjing , Liu Wei , Ren Xiaohu , Nie Luling , Wu Desheng , Guo Zhiwei , Liu Weimin , Yang Xifei , Wu Yan , Liang Zhen , Spencer Peter , Liu Jianjun
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Diabetic neuropathy is the most prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus. Although the precise etiology of this neurological disorder has yet to be defined, elevated blood glucose promotes anerobic glycolysis; this produces excess advanced glycation end‐products, many of which have a pyrrole structure. Here, we test the hypothesis that protein pyrrole adducts are associated with elevated glucose indices and some clinical features of diabetic diffuse neuropathies.

Method

We investigated the levels of plasma pyrrole adducts and adjusted urinary pyrrole adducts in a group of elderly persons (n = 516, age 60–79) residing in the District of Luohu, Shenzhen, China between 2017 and 2018. Symptoms of distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) and resting heart rate, a measure of autonomic nervous system function, were collected from participants (n = 258) with elevated glucose indices.

Result

Protein pyrrole adducts showed a strong correlation with glucose indices before and after adjustment for age and estimated glomerular filtration rates. Stratified analysis showed that the medians and interquartile values of pyrrole adducts grew as glucose indices of the subgroups increased. Participants with symptoms of DSPN and sinus tachycardia presented elevated levels of plasma pyrrole adducts.

Conclusion

This study provides a novel link between glucose indices and the etiology of diabetic diffuse neuropathies.
Casticin promotes osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells and improves osteoporosis in rats by regulating nuclear factor‐κB/mitogen‐activated protein kinase
Authors: Zhang Dong , Li Xuejia , Li Jianmin , Liu Wanxin , Yu Ying , Wang Shuqiang , Ye Xiaojian
Published: October 2022

Background

Osteoporosis has influenced millions of people, especially postmenopausal women, which has become a big burden to the whole world. Although the diverse roles of casticin (CAS) on different diseases were identified, whether it was implicated with osteoporosis was unknown.

Methods

A rat model of osteoporosis was established through dexamethasone (DEX) treatment and a cell model reflecting the osteogenic and osteoclast induction was constructed in bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). The calcification at the late stage of induction was measured via Alizarin Red S staining. Western blot was applied to evaluate the levels of proteins.

Results

Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed that the number of bone trabecular in DEX‐induced osteoporosis rats was decreased, while increased doses of CAS treatment elevated the number of bone trabecular. CAS treatment alleviated DEX‐induced osteoporosis in rats. Moreover, we found that CAS inhibited the nuclear factor‐κB/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (NF‐κB/MAPK) pathway. In addition, CAS promoted osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and reduced osteoclastogenesis of bone marrow monocytes. Finally, CAS was observed to retard the receptor activator of NFκ‐B ligand‐induced NF‐κB/MAPK pathway.

Conclusion

CAS promoted osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and improved osteoporosis in rats by regulating the NF‐κB/MAPK pathway. This might shed a light into using CAS as a drug treating osteoporosis in the future.
The winning score
Authors: Brown Alistair C. , Mortimer Neil J. , Salmon Paul J. M.
Published: October 2022

Incision lines placed at cosmetic boundaries and/or in rhytids during surgical procedures provide ideal concealment of scars. We suggest the use of a 30‐gauge, half‐inch needle or alternatively the back edge of a #15 scalpel blade to superficially score the skin to provide markings, which are fine enough to lie exactly within rhytids or at exact cosmetic boundaries such as the nasolabial fold or the junction of the cutaneous and vermillion lip. We measured the average depth of these scores to demonstrate that they are shallow enough to heal without scarring.
VEXAS syndrome: A dermatological perspective
Authors: Nguyen Jacqueline K. , Routledge David , van Der Weyden Carrie , Blombery Piers , Angel Christopher M. , Johnson Daryl , Goh Michelle S. , Lee Adriene
Published: October 2022

VEXAS (Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X‐linked, autoinflammatory and somatic mutation) syndrome is a genetically defined disorder identified in 2020, describing patients with inflammatory syndromes associated with haematological dysfunction. It is a severe, treatment‐resistant condition, with estimated mortality between 40% and 63%. A wide range of cutaneous manifestations have been described. Here, we report on two patients with treatment‐resistant neutrophilic dermatosis and myelodysplastic syndrome, who were subsequently diagnosed with VEXAS syndrome. Our cases highlight the need for dermatologists' awareness of this novel condition and to initiate early referral to haematologists for appropriate multidisciplinary care.
Krupp in the Occupied Eastern Territories: Frustration, Failures, and the Question of Freedom
Authors: Gillan Troy
Published: October 2022

This article speaks to a broader debate about the agency and freedom of German business during the Third Reich, on a spectrum from control and coercion to freedom of action. It argues that at least in the occupied eastern territories, Krupp and German business were not unwilling and coerced participants but neither entirely free to act as they wished. Looking at Krupp's experience in the occupied eastern territories during 1941–43, it argues Krupp's involvement in the economic exploitation of the territories was a willing choice and connected to Krupp's own interests and business objectives. At the same time, Krupp's involvement was limited and controlled by the Reich to serve Reich objectives, and the firm's experience of frustration and overall failure was caused by factors out of Krupp's control. Krupp's decision‐making, actions, and behaviours were not truly free, but Krupp had enough freedom to be responsible.
Single‐centre experience of loop ileostomy closure: a retrospective comparison of conventional‐linear closure and purse‐string closure on surgical‐site‐infection rates
Authors: Nyandoro Munyaradzi G. , Seow Yi Th'ng , Stein Joel , Theophilus Mary
Published: October 2022

Background

The closure of ileostomy is associated with significant morbidity, the most common being surgical site infection (SSI), ranging up to 41%. This study compared the stoma site SSI rates after either the conventional‐linear closure (CLC) or purse‐string closure (PSC).

Methods

The study conducted a single‐centre retrospective cohort study of elective loop‐ileostomy closures from June 2015 to January 2021. Patient demographics, surgical techniques and outcomes, including SSI rates, were analysed using SPSS ver.27.

Results

Hundred and six patients underwent loop‐ileostomy closure, 91.5% (n = 97) had CLC of which 67% (n = 65) were stapled. Male patients comprise 67.9%, with a median age of 62. The median BMI was 27. The median surgical time, LOS and interval time to closure were 66 min, 4.5 days and 5.5 months, respectively. The SSI rate was 19.6% (n = 19) for CLC and 11.1% (n = 1) for PSC. The SSI rate was significantly reduced to 3.7% (P < 0.001) in CLC when the site was washed with betadine. Multivariate logistic regression controlled for statistically insignificant confounders showed that stoma site betadine wash was significantly and independently associated with reduced SSI risk (P = 0.026). Other significant factors which reduced SSI risk were prophylactic antibiotic therapy (P = 0.004), operative time < 60 min (P = 0.021), and having the closure done >3 months post the formation surgery (P = 0.040).

Conclusions

This study found that stoma SSI risk was independently and significantly reduced when CLC stapled site was washed with betadine. This low‐cost intervention that significantly reduced skin closure site SSI rates is readily available and can easily be adopted into clinical practice.
The incidence of occult level IV nodal metastasis in tongue squamous cell carcinoma: a 20 year review
Authors: Wu Johnny , Kong Leon , Field Xavier , Ebrahim Abdul‐Kader
Published: October 2022

Background

The extent of neck dissection for tongue SCC is unclear owing to the potential presence of occult level IV metastasis. We aim to assess the incidence of occult level IV nodal metastasis for tongue SCC patients treated in our centre over a 20 year period.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of data collected from 1999 to 2019 was performed. Patients diagnosed with oral tongue SCC treated primarily with surgery and a neck dissection fulfilled the inclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 124 patients were included in our study. Sixty‐one patients were N0 with no occult level IV metastasis. About 17.3% of clinically node positive patients had level IV metastasis. Length of hospital stay and complication rates were comparable for patients who received levels I–III and I–IV neck dissections.

Conclusion

Occult level IV metastasis in N0 tongue SCC patients are exceedingly rare, we would therefore suggest consideration for a level I–III neck dissection. In patients who are clinically node positive, a level I–IV neck dissection would be recommended.
The complex relationship between greenspace and well‐being in children with and without autism
Authors: Barger Brian , Larson Lincoln R. , Torquati Julia , Moody Eric , Ogletree Scott , Rosenberg Steven
Published: October 2022

Greenspace (defined here as canopy coverage) positively correlates with improved well‐being in typically developing individuals, but this relationship has not been established in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To investigate this relationship, the current study merged data from the National Survey of Children's Health (2012) with the National Land Cover Database. Across typically developing children, children with ASD, and non‐autistic children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN), greenspace unexpectedly negatively correlated with well‐being. Further, compared with typically developing children, children with ASD or CSHCN status had lower well‐being. Interestingly, typically developing children with conduct problems displayed an unexpected negative relationship (i.e. as greenspace increased whereas well‐being decreased), though those without conduct problems showed no relationship. Children with ASD displayed no relationship between greenspace independent of conduct problems. CSHCN displayed non‐significant trends suggesting mild positive relationships between greenspace and well‐being. These data indicate the relationship between greenspace and well‐being is more complex than expected and may depend on the diagnostic traits of the population studied.