bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CEO narcissism and innovation ambidexterity: The moderating roles of CEO power and firm reputation
Authors: You Shuyang , Li Zhengyu , Jia Liangding , Cai Yahua
Published: November 2022

We examine how CEO narcissism affects firm innovation ambidexterity—the relatively balanced development in existing domains through exploitative innovation and in new domains through exploratory innovation. We theorize that firms led by more narcissistic CEOs are less likely to achieve innovation ambidexterity than those led by less narcissistic CEOs. Drawing on the trait activation theory, we further argue that this negative relationship is strongest when the CEO's power is intermediate and when the firm's reputation in the market is intermediate. Our analyses of a large‐scale onsite survey collected from 132 Chinese firms, matched with their archival patent information, support our hypotheses. Our study first sheds new light on the existing literature on the influence of firm managers on innovation ambidexterity by considering their different personalities. Second, this study contributes to the strategic leadership research on CEO narcissism by extending its implications to innovation ambidexterity as a new organizational outcome. Third, our study indicates that narcissistic CEOs' priority orders to chase the two conflicting needs—that is, the need to dominate decision‐making and the need for acclaim—vary in different scenarios. This finding thus challenges the assumption in prior CEO narcissism research that the behavioral manifestations of narcissistic personalities' different facets are the same regardless of the contextual scenarios.
Contingency and Social Change: Collective Engagement in Conditions of Radical Uncertainty
Authors: Cvejić Igor , Ivković Marjan , Prodanović Srđan
Published: November 2022

This paper addresses the nexus between contingency, social engagement and change, through investigating the potential of severe (“disruptive”) contingency to bring about new forms of joint agency. By challenging Boltanski's notion of existential tests (which can only be experienced in isolation), the paper argues that social actors can experience disruptive contingent events in an inherently intersubjective manner. Although they severely hinder social interaction, disruptive contingent events enable a possibility of what might be called “negative common knowledge” between social actors which in turn renders certain societal norms meaningless. This possibility is mediated through processes of mutual engagement (calls between actors) that could, further, be transformed into a new “norm circle” (Dave Elder‐Vass). Social domination – in particular its “complex” variety – in this context appears as the obstructing of such transformation. A recent political episode in Serbia is analyzed to demonstrate the emancipatory potential of contingency and the logic of complex domination.
An oral phenylacrylic acid derivative suppressed hepatic stellate cell activation and ameliorated liver fibrosis by blocking TGF‐β1 signalling
Authors: Xue Taixiong , Yue Lin , Zhu Guonian , Tan Zui , Liu Hongyao , Gan Cailing , Fan Chen , Su Xingping , Xie Yuting , Ye Tinghong
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

Liver fibrosis is an excessive wound‐healing response governed by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). To date, there is no drug available for liver fibrosis. Although ferulic acid (FA) has multiple pharmacological functions, its anti‐hepatic fibrosis activity is weak. Based on the activity modification of the FA structure, we synthesized a series of phenylacrylic derivatives and found a superior compound, FA11. In this study, we investigated its antifibrotic effect and mechanism.

Methods

Activated HSC and CCl4‐induced mouse liver fibrosis were established and followed by FA11 treatment. Cell viability was measured by CCK‐8 assay. Apoptosis and cell cycle analysis were conducted by flow cytometry. Western blot and Real‐time qPCR were used to examine the expression of fibrotic and M1/M2‐type macrophages markers. Degree of liver fibrosis was shown by histological staining.

Results

In vitro, FA11 inhibited TGF‐β1‐induced LX‐2 proliferation and led to apoptosis and cycle arrest. Furthermore, elevation of fibrotic markers in TGF‐β1‐induced LX‐2 and primary activated HSC was reversed by FA11. In vivo, FA11 administration alleviated collagen deposition and blocked HSC activation and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, FA11 reduced macrophage infiltration in fibrotic liver and prevented macrophage polarization to a profibrotic phenotype. Meanwhile, the systemic toxicity of CCl4 was also ameliorated by FA11. Mechanistically, FA11 reversed the phosphorylation of canonical and noncanonical TGF‐β1 signalling, as well as FGFR1 signalling.

Conclusions

We reported an oral phenylacrylic acid derivative, FA11, which showed excellent antifibrotic activity and was expected to be an anti‐hepatic fibrosis candidate.
Immune gene expression in the mosquito vector Culex quinquefasciatus during an avian malaria infection
Authors: García‐Longoria Luz , Ahrén Dag , Berthomieu Arnaud , Kalbskopf Victor , Rivero Ana , Hellgren Olof
Published: November 2022

Plasmodium relictum is the most widespread avian malaria parasite in the world. It is listed as one of the 100 most dangerous invasive species, having been responsible for the extinction of several endemic bird species, and the near‐demise of several others. Here we present the first transcriptomic study focused on the effect of P. relictum on the immune system of its vector (the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus) at different times post‐infection. We show that over 50% of immune genes identified as being part of the Toll pathway and 30%–40% of the immune genes identified within the Imd pathway are overexpressed during the critical period spanning the parasite's oocyst and sporozoite formation (8–12 days), revealing the crucial role played by both these pathways in this natural mosquito–Plasmodium combination. Comparison of infected mosquitoes with their uninfected counterparts also revealed some unexpected immune RNA expression patterns earlier and later in the infection: significant differences in expression of several immune effectors were observed as early as 30 min after ingestion of the infected blood meal. In addition, in the later stages of the infection (towards the end of the mosquito lifespan), we observed an unexpected increase in immune investment in uninfected, but not in infected, mosquitoes. In conclusion, our work extends the comparative transcriptomic analyses of malaria‐infected mosquitoes beyond human and rodent parasites and provides insights into the degree of conservation of immune pathways and into the selective pressures exerted by Plasmodium parasites on their vectors.
Solenopsis bacchettae (Campanulaceae, Lobelioideae), a new species from Sardinia
Authors: Brullo Salvatore , Brullo Cristian , Tavilla Gianmarco , Siracusa Giuseppe , Cambria Salvatore
Published: November 2022

A new species of Solenopsis (Campanulaceae), S. bacchettae from Sardinia (Italy) is described and illustrated. Previously, it was misidentified as S. bivonae, due to its habit and corolla shape, but several relevant morphological features allow to distinguish it from the latter. Its morphology, seed coat and pollen micromorphology, ecology, distribution, conservation status and taxonomic relationships are presented.
Antibiotic discovery in the artificial intelligence era
Authors: Lluka Telmah , Stokes Jonathan M.
Published: November 2022

As the global burden of antibiotic resistance continues to grow, creative approaches to antibiotic discovery are needed to accelerate the development of novel medicines. A rapidly progressing computational revolution—artificial intelligence—offers an optimistic path forward due to its ability to alleviate bottlenecks in the antibiotic discovery pipeline. In this review, we discuss how advancements in artificial intelligence are reinvigorating the adoption of past antibiotic discovery models—namely natural product exploration and small molecule screening. We then explore the application of contemporary machine learning approaches to emerging areas of antibiotic discovery, including antibacterial systems biology, drug combination development, antimicrobial peptide discovery, and mechanism of action prediction. Lastly, we propose a call to action for open access of high‐quality screening datasets and interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate the rate at which machine learning models can be trained and new antibiotic drugs can be developed.
The UK's Great Demand and Supply Recession*
Authors: Jacob Nick , Mion Giordano
Published: November 2022

We revisit the weak productivity performance of the UK since the Great Recession by means of both a suitable theoretical framework and firm‐level price and quantity data for detailed products, allowing us to measure both demand and its changes over time and distinguish between quantity total factor productivity and revenue total factor productivity. This in turn allows us to measure how changes in quantity TFP, demand and markups ultimately affected revenue TFP, as well as labour productivity, over the Great Recession. Our findings suggest that the weak productivity performance of UK firms post‐recession is due to both weakening demand and decreasing quantity TFP pushing down sales, markups, revenue TFP and labour productivity.
Sunitinib promotes apoptosis via p38 MAPK activation and STAT3 downregulation in oral keratinocytes
Authors: Fukada Shohei , Ohta Kouji , Sakuma Miyuki , Akagi Misaki , Kato Hiroki , Naruse Takako , Nakagawa Takayuki , Shigeishi Hideo , Nishi Hiromi , Takechi Masaaki , Aikawa Tomonao
Published: November 2022

Objective

Sunitinib, a targeted cancer drug, inhibits tyrosine kinases receptors and is widely used as first‐line treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Patients undergoing chemotherapy with sunitinib frequently have oral mucosal complications, such as oral stomatitis, though cytotoxic effects of the drug on oral keratinocytes remain unknown.

Methods

The effects of sunitinib on immortalized oral keratinocytes, RT7 cells, in regard to cell injury and apoptosis, as well as apoptosis‐mediated signaling pathways were investigated.

Results

Sunitinib treatment caused a significant increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in RT7 cells and primary oral keratinocytes. Additionally, the drug induced apoptosis‐related events, such as DNA fragmentation, decreased anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 protein expression, and induction of cleaved PARP and caspase 3/9 in RT7 cells. Furthermore, phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, but not of ERK or JNK, was increased. On the contrary, constitutive phosphorylated STAT3 was decreased by sunitinib treatment, which was recovered by exposure to SB203580, a p38 MAPK inhibitor. Finally, SB203580 was found to reduce sunitinib‐induced cell injury and apoptosis.

Conclusion

The present results indicate that sunitinib promotes cell injury and apoptosis in oral keratinocytes via p38 activation and STAT3 downregulation. Sunitinib‐mediated oral complications may be associated with cytotoxic effects of the drug on oral keratinocytes.
Clinical Effectiveness of Home‐Based Telerehabilitation Program for Geriatric Hip Fracture Following Total Hip Replacement
Authors: Wu Wei‐yong , Zhang Yin‐guang , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Peng Bing , Xu Wei‐guo
Published: November 2022

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of a six‐month home‐based telerehabilitation based on the Internet‐based rehabilitation management system coupled with conventional outpatient care in elderly patients with hip fractures following total hip replacement (THR).

Methods

Elderly patients (aged over 65 years) with first hip fractures who underwent THR between March 2018 and September 2018 in Tianjin Hospital were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into two groups: telerehabilitation group (n = 43) and telephone group (n = 42). A Internet‐based telerehabilitation management system was established and applied on patients in the telerehabilitation group. For patients in the telephone group, the rehabilitation intervention was administered through conventional outpatient care (telephone along with outpatient follow‐up). Data from the Harris hip scale (HHS), functional independence measure (FIM), self‐rating anxiety scale (SAS), and postoperative complications at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery were collected and compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 85 elderly patients completed the 6‐month follow‐up assessment. Results showed that the HHS score was significantly higher in the telerehabilitation group than in the telephone group at 1 month (66.35 ± 4.63 vs 63.48 ± 4.49), 3 months (76.33 ± 4.52 vs 71.81 ± 3.84), and 6 months (84.23 ± 3.13 vs 77.29 ± 4.95) after surgery (P < 0.001). The FIM score was significantly higher in the telerehabilitation group than in the telephone group at 1 month (89.00 ± 5.63 vs 73.35 ± 8.70), 3 months (100.16 ± 4.56 vs 92.81 ± 5.17), and 6 months (111.70 ± 3.13 vs 98.64 ± 5.12) after surgery (P < 0.001). The SAS score was significantly lower in the telerehabilitation group than in the telephone group at 1 month (42.40 ± 3.07 vs 46.21 ± 3.53), 3 months (36.77 ± 2.26 vs 40.24 ± 1.66), and 6 months (29.26 ± 1.63 vs 33.81 ± 2.62) after surgery (P < 0.001). The overall complication rate was significantly lower in the telerehabilitation group than in the telephone group (14% vs 40.5%) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Internet‐based rehabilitation management system can not only promote the physical rehabilitation of patients, but also play a positive role in psychological rehabilitation and the prevention of complications, which provides new ideas and methods for clinical rehabilitation.
Genetic engineering of complex feed enzymes into barley seed for direct utilization in animal feedstuff
Authors: Peng Ri‐He , Zhang Wen‐Hui , Wang Yu , Deng Yong‐Dong , Wang Bo , Gao Jian‐Jie , Li Zhen‐Jun , Wang Li‐Juan , Fu Xiao‐Yan , Xu Jing , Han Hong‐Juan , Tian Yong‐Sheng , Yao Quan‐Hong
Published: November 2022

Currently, feed enzymes are primarily obtained through fermentation of fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms. Although the manufacturing technology for feed enzymes has evolved rapidly, the activities of these enzymes decline during the granulating process and the cost of application has increased over time. An alternative approach is the use of genetically modified plants containing complex feed enzymes for direct utilization in animal feedstuff. We co‐expressed three commonly used feed enzymes (phytase, β‐glucanase, and xylanase) in barley seeds using the Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation method and generated a new barley germplasm. The results showed that these enzymes were stable and had no effect on the development of the seeds. Supplementation of the basal diet of laying hens with only 8% of enzyme‐containing seeds decreased the quantities of indigestible carbohydrates, improved the availability of phosphorus, and reduced the impact of animal production on the environment to an extent similar to directly adding exogenous enzymes to the feed. Feeding enzyme‐containing seeds to layers significantly increased the strength of the eggshell and the weight of the eggs by 10.0%–11.3% and 5.6%–7.7% respectively. The intestinal microbiota obtained from layers fed with enzyme‐containing seeds was altered compared to controls and was dominated by Alispes and Rikenella. Therefore, the transgenic barley seeds produced in this study can be used as an ideal feedstuff for use in animal feed.
Insect rearing on biowaste represents a competitive advantage for fish farming
Authors: Maroušek Josef , Strunecký Otakar , Maroušková Anna
Published: November 2022

Feeding cost is among the main drivers in the price competitiveness of intensively‐fed‐aquaculture (IFA) products. As soaring energy prices increase the costs of technologies used to increase the digestibility of plant protein feeds, there is an urgent call for comprehensive knowledge on the mass use of insects as fish feed. This review identifies the key aspects of insect incorporation into established IFA practices and puts them into a commercial context. Larvae of Black soldier fly (BSFL) is identified as the most versatile in terms of (a) variety of biowaste usable for its rearing, (b) automatization and scaling up, (c) nutritional value and (d) circular and environmental aspects. Furthermore, modifications insect diets can increase the levels of valuable compounds such as omega‐3 fatty acids in fish. Other insects such as ants or mealworms have the potential to meet the nutritional requirements of various fish species. While today the production costs of BSFL (mostly around 3.5 € kg−1) are mostly determined by labour costs, it is predicted that intensified industrialization of insect rearing could reduce the production cost below 2 € kg−1. In addition, multiple positive economic impacts, as well as environmental spillovers, have been identified. It is proposed that further research should be directed towards the refining and further valorization of byproducts from insect farming which could further dissolve the rearing cost. Bringing the IFA into compliance with the principles of the circular economy increases its competitiveness by reducing production costs and improving public opinion.
Efficacy and safety of BT595 (10% human intravenous immunoglobulin) in adult patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Demeter Judit , Hamed Aryan , László Szerafin , Suvajdzic Nada , Aigner Silke , Börner Birgit , Staiger Christiane
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This trial investigated the efficacy and safety of the new 10% human intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) BT595 (Yimmugo®).

Methods

Adult patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) received a total dose of 2 g/kg body weight (bw) IVIg either over 2 or 5 days.

Results

Response as defined by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) was achieved in 18 of 34 patients (52.9%) in the full analysis set (FAS), with a complete response in 11 patients (32.4%). The median time to response was 1.0 days (range 1–4); the median duration was 28.0 days. In a subgroup with a baseline platelet count <20*109/L evaluated according to FDA criteria, a platelet response ≥50*109/L was achieved in 18 of 19 patients at day 8. No fatal case occured. One serious treatment‐emergent adverse event (TEAE) (anaemia, not related) was reported (2.9%). The most frequent infusional adverse drug reaction (ADR) was headache, which was reported for 14.7% of all patients. All other infusional ADRs (pyrexia, [intravascular] haemolysis, skin reaction, tinnitus, and Coombs test positive) occurred in only one patient (2.9%). Premedication was administered only once. The 5‐day schedule showed less side effects with similar efficacy.

Conclusion

The benefit‐risk profile of BT595 is favourable.

Trial Registration Number

Eudra CT Number 2015‐003653‐17, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02859909.
The repeatability, reproducibility, and influencing factors of intrarenal Doppler ultrasonography in dogs without heart disease
Authors: Terukina Hiroki , Morita Tomoya , Yamasaki Masahiro
Published: November 2022

Renal impairment is concurrent with adverse outcomes such as heart disease in humans and dogs. Intrarenal Doppler ultrasonography (IRD) is used to assess intrarenal hemodynamics, and resistance index (RI) and venous impedance index (VII) are used to evaluate intrarenal hemodynamics in humans with heart failure. However, only a few studies have assessed the efficacy of IRD, especially VII, in dogs, and the methods differ between studies. Additionally, repeatability, reproducibility, and factors influencing IRD values have not been validated in dogs. This prospective, analytical study aimed to assess repeatability and reproducibility of IRD, and to clarify influencing factors of IRD in dogs without heart disease. We enrolled 78 dogs without heart disease. The RI and VII were highly reproducible, and the reference intervals for VII were 0.13–0.37. Differences in transducer (sector and convex) and posture (right lateral and supine decubitus position) had no effect on the IRD values. In contrast, RI and VII were higher in the renal vessels than in interlobar vessels. Age affected RI values (r = 0.39, P < 0.001), but there was no correlation between age, body weight, and VII. In conclusion, IRD is a repeatable and reproducible method to assess intrarenal hemodynamics in dogs. The findings also suggest that age should be considered while interpreting RI.
Mechanical Couplings of 3D Lattice Materials Discovered by Micropolar Elasticity and Geometric Symmetry
Authors: Cui Zhiming , Yuan Zhihao , Ju Jaehyung
Published: November 2022

Similar to Poisson’s effect, mechanical coupling is a directional indirect response by a directional input loading. With the advance in manufacturing techniques of 3D complex geometry, architected materials with unit cells of finite volume rather than a point yield more degrees-of-freedom and foster exotic mechanical couplings such as axial–shear, axial–rotation, axial–bending, and axial–twisting. However, most structural materials have been built by the ad hoc design of mechanical couplings without theoretical support of elasticity, which does not provide general guidelines for mechanical couplings. Moreover, no comprehensive study of all the mechanical couplings of 3D lattices with symmetry operations has been undertaken. Therefore, we construct the decoupled micropolar elasticity tensor of 3D lattices to identify individual mechanical couplings correlated with the point groups. The decoupled micropolar elasticity tensors, classified with 32 point groups, provide 15 mechanical couplings for 3D lattices. Our findings help provide solid theoretical guidelines for the mechanical couplings of 3D structural materials with potential applications in various areas, including active metamaterials, sensors, actuators, elastic waveguides, and acoustics.
“They Do Not Represent Our Gym”: How CrossFit Affiliates Define Community as They Respond to Racial Controversy
Authors: Edmonds Shaun , Malcom Nancy L. , Gipson Christina M. , Bennett Hannah
Published: November 2022

Following the racist comments of the then CEO and CrossFit co-founder Greg Glassman concerning the murder of George Floyd, CrossFit affiliates took to social media to repudiate his statements. Throughout their social media posts, these affiliates struggled with their relationship to the CrossFit brand, the imagined CrossFit community, and the community formed in their local box. Using qualitative thematic analysis of CrossFit affiliates’ Facebook and Instagram posts made during June 2020, we find that the affiliates had a range of responses that included silence, reconsideration of their affiliate status, and social activism. Furthermore, we find that the affiliates’ focus on (re)defining community served to deflect from deeper discussions of systemic racism within CrossFit and the CrossFit community.
Stable optical lateral forces from inhomogeneities of the spin angular momentum
Authors: Shi Yuzhi , Zhu Tongtong , Liu Jingquan , Tsai Din Ping , Zhang Hui , Wang Shubo , Chan Che Ting , Wu Pin Chieh , Zayats Anatoly V. , Nori Franco , Liu Ai Qun
Published: November 2022

Transverse spin momentum related to the spin angular momentum (SAM) of light has been theoretically studied recently and predicted to generate an intriguing optical lateral force (OLF). Despite extensive studies, there is no direct experimental evidence of a stable OLF resulting from the dominant SAM rather than the ubiquitous spin-orbit interaction in a single light beam. Here, we theoretically unveil the nontrivial physics of SAM-correlated OLF, showing that the SAM is a dominant factor for the OLF on a nonabsorbing particle, while an additional force from the canonical (orbital) momentum is exhibited on an absorbing particle due to the spin-orbit interaction. Experimental results demonstrate the bidirectional movement of 5-μm-diameter particles on both sides of the beam with opposite spin momenta. The amplitude and sign of this force strongly depend on the polarization. Our optofluidic platform advances the exploitation of exotic forces in systems with a dominant SAM, facilitating the exploration of fascinating light-matter interactions.
DeepVelo
: Single-cell transcriptomic deep velocity field learning with neural ordinary differential equations
Authors: Chen Zhanlin , King William C. , Hwang Aheyon , Gerstein Mark , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2022

Recent advances in single-cell sequencing technologies have provided unprecedented opportunities to measure the gene expression profile and RNA velocity of individual cells. However, modeling transcriptional dynamics is computationally challenging because of the high-dimensional, sparse nature of the single-cell gene expression measurements and the nonlinear regulatory relationships. Here, we present
DeepVelo
, a neural network–based ordinary differential equation that can model complex transcriptome dynamics by describing continuous-time gene expression changes within individual cells. We apply
DeepVelo
to public datasets from different sequencing platforms to (i) formulate transcriptome dynamics on different time scales, (ii) measure the instability of cell states, and (iii) identify developmental driver genes via perturbation analysis. Benchmarking against the state-of-the-art methods shows that
DeepVelo
can learn a more accurate representation of the velocity field. Furthermore, our perturbation studies reveal that single-cell dynamical systems could exhibit chaotic properties. In summary,
DeepVelo
allows data-driven discoveries of differential equations that delineate single-cell transcriptome dynamics.
Decreasing
Wapl
dosage partially corrects embryonic growth and brain transcriptome phenotypes in

Nipbl
+/−

embryos
Authors: Kean Connor M. , Tracy Christopher J. , Mitra Apratim , Rahat Beenish , Van Winkle Matthew T. , Gebert Claudia M. , Noeker Jacob A. , Calof Anne L. , Lander Arthur D. , Kassis Judith A. , Pfeifer Karl
Published: November 2022

Cohesin rings interact with DNA and modulate the expression of thousands of genes. NIPBL loads cohesin onto chromosomes, and WAPL takes it off. Haploinsufficiency for
NIPBL
causes a developmental disorder, Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS), that is modeled by

Nipbl
+/−

mice. Mutations in
WAPL
have not been shown to cause disease or gene expression changes in mammals. Here, we show dysregulation of >1000 genes in
Wapl

Δ
/+

embryonic mouse brain. The patterns of dysregulation are highly similar in
Wapl
and
Nipbl
heterozygotes, suggesting that
Wapl
mutations may also cause human disease. Since WAPL and NIPBL have opposite effects on cohesin’s association with DNA, we asked whether decreasing
Wapl
dosage could correct phenotypes seen in

Nipbl
+/−

mice. Gene expression and embryonic growth are partially corrected, but perinatal lethality is not. Our data are consistent with the view that cohesin dynamics play a key role in regulating gene expression.
The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein binds and modulates estrogen receptors
Authors: Solis Oscar , Beccari Andrea R. , Iaconis Daniela , Talarico Carmine , Ruiz-Bedoya Camilo A. , Nwachukwu Jerome C. , Cimini Annamaria , Castelli Vanessa , Bertini Riccardo , Montopoli Monica , Cocetta Veronica , Borocci Stefano , Prandi Ingrid G. , Flavahan Kelly , Bahr Melissa , Napiorkowski Anna , Chillemi Giovanni , Ooka Masato , Yang Xiaoping , Zhang Shiliang , Xia Menghang , Zheng Wei , Bonaventura Jordi , Pomper Martin G. , Hooper Jody E. , Morales Marisela , Rosenberg Avi Z. , Nettles Kendall W. , Jain Sanjay K. , Allegretti Marcello , Michaelides Michael
Published: November 2022

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike (S) protein binds angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 as its primary infection mechanism. Interactions between S and endogenous proteins occur after infection but are not well understood. We profiled binding of S against >9000 human proteins and found an interaction between S and human estrogen receptor α (ERα). Using bioinformatics, supercomputing, and experimental assays, we identified a highly conserved and functional nuclear receptor coregulator (NRC) LXD-like motif on the S2 subunit. In cultured cells, S DNA transfection increased ERα cytoplasmic accumulation, and S treatment induced ER-dependent biological effects. Non-invasive imaging in SARS-CoV-2–infected hamsters localized lung pathology with increased ERα lung levels. Postmortem lung experiments from infected hamsters and humans confirmed an increase in cytoplasmic ERα and its colocalization with S in alveolar macrophages. These findings describe the discovery of a S-ERα interaction, imply a role for S as an NRC, and advance knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 biology and coronavirus disease 2019 pathology.
Enhanced quantum sensing with room-temperature solid-state masers
Authors: Wu Hao , Yang Shuo , Oxborrow Mark , Jiang Min , Zhao Qing , Budker Dmitry , Zhang Bo , Du Jiangfeng
Published: November 2022

Quantum sensing with solid-state electron spin systems finds broad applications in diverse areas ranging from material and biomedical sciences to fundamental physics. Exploiting collective behavior of noninteracting spins holds the promise of pushing the detection limit to even lower levels, while to date, those levels are scarcely reached because of the broadened linewidth and inefficient readout of solid-state spin ensembles. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that such drawbacks can be overcome by a reborn maser technology at room temperature in the solid state. Owing to maser action, we observe a fourfold reduction in the electron paramagnetic resonance linewidth of an inhomogeneously broadened molecular spin ensemble, which is narrower than the same measured from single spins at cryogenic temperatures. The maser-based readout applied to near zero-field magnetometry showcases the measurement signal-to-noise ratio of 133 for single shots. This technique would be an important addition to the toolbox for boosting the sensitivity of solid-state ensemble spin sensors.
Generation and multiomic profiling of aTP53/CDKN2Adouble-knockout gastroesophageal junction organoid model
Authors: Zhao Hua , Cheng Yulan , Kalra Andrew , Ma Ke , Zheng Yueyuan , Ziman Benjamin , Tressler Caitlin , Glunde Kristine , Shin Eun Ji , Ngamruengphong Saowanee , Khashab Mouen , Singh Vikesh , Anders Robert A. , Jit Simran , Wyhs Nicolas , Chen Wei , Li Xu , Lin De-Chen , Meltzer Stephen J.
Published: November 2022

Inactivation of the tumor suppressor genes tumor protein p53 (TP53) and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) occurs early during gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) tumorigenesis. However, because of a paucity of GEJ-specific disease models, cancer-promoting consequences ofTP53andCDKN2Ainactivation at the GEJ have not been characterized. Here, we report the development of a wild-type primary human GEJ organoid model and a CRISPR-edited transformed GEJ organoid model. CRISPR-Cas9–mediatedTP53andCDKN2Aknockout (TP53/CDKN2AKO) in GEJ organoids induced morphologic dysplasia and proneoplastic features in vitro and tumor formation in vivo. Lipidomic profiling identified several platelet-activating factors (PTAFs) among the most up-regulated lipids in CRISPR-edited organoids. PTAF/PTAF receptor (PTAFR) abrogation by siRNA knockdown or a pharmacologic inhibitor (WEB2086) reduced proliferation and other proneoplastic features ofTP53/CDKN2AKOGEJ organoids in vitro and tumor formation in vivo. In addition, murine xenografts of Eso26, an established human esophageal adenocarcinoma cell line, were suppressed by WEB2086. Mechanistically,TP53/CDKN2Adual inactivation disrupted both the transcriptome and the DNA methylome, likely mediated by key transcription factors, particularly forkhead box M1 (FOXM1). FOXM1 activatedPTAFRtranscription by binding to thePTAFRpromoter, further amplifying the PTAF-PTAFR pathway. Together, these studies established a robust model system for investigating early GEJ neoplastic events, identified crucial metabolic and epigenomic changes occurring during GEJ model tumorigenesis, and revealed a potential cancer therapeutic strategy. This work provides insights into proneoplastic mechanisms associated withTP53/CDKN2Ainactivation in early GEJ neoplasia, which may facilitate early diagnosis and prevention of GEJ neoplasms.
Spontaneous Mutational Patterns and Novel Mutations for Delamanid Resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Shi Jin , Li Lu , Wu Tuoya , Chu Ping , Pang Yu , Guo Yongli , Gao Mengqiu , Lu Jie
Published: November 2022

Delamanid (DLM) and pretomanid (PTM) are recent additions to the anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug armamentarium, and they offer more effective options for drug-resistant TB treatment. In particular, DLM is included in Group C, which is recommended for use in longer multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB regimens.
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Properties of CUO246, a Novel Bacterial DNA Gyrase/Topoisomerase IV Inhibitor
Authors: Blais Johanne , Dean Charles R. , Lapointe Guillaume , Leeds Jennifer A. , Ma Sylvia , Morris Laura , Moser Heinz E. , Osborne Colin S. , Prosen Katherine R. , Richie Daryl , Skepper Colin , Thompson Katherine , Vo Jason , Yue Qin , Rivkin Alexey
Published: November 2022

CUO246, a novel DNA gyrase/topoisomerase IV inhibitor, is active
in vitro
against a broad range of Gram-positive, fastidious Gram-negative, and atypical bacterial pathogens and retains activity against quinolone-resistant strains in circulation. The frequency of selection for single step mutants of wild-type
S. aureus
with reduced susceptibility to CUO246 was <4.64 × 10
−9
at 4× and 8× MIC and remained low when using an isogenic QRDR mutant (<5.24 × 10
−9
at 4× and 8× MIC).
Neuromasts and Olfactory Organs of Zebrafish Larvae Represent Possible Sites of SARS-CoV-2 Pseudovirus Host Cell Entry
Authors: Choi Sheyne S. A. , Chan Ho Hin , Chan Ching Man , Wang Xiaoyang , Webb Sarah E. , Leung Ka Wing , Tsim Karl W. K. , Miller Andrew L.
Published: November 2022

Despite the development of effective vaccines to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, which help prevent the most life-threatening symptoms, full protection cannot be guaranteed, especially with the emergence of new viral variants. Moreover, some resistance to vaccination remains in certain age groups and cultures.
Duck Enteritis Virus Inhibits the cGAS-STING DNA-Sensing Pathway To Evade the Innate Immune Response
Authors: Gao Li , Liu Rui , Yang Fuchun , Li Xiaohan , Liu Changjun , Qi Xiaole , Cui Hongyu , Zhang Yanping , Wang Suyan , Wang Xiaomei , Gao Yulong , Li Kai
Published: November 2022

Duck enteritis virus (DEV) is a duck alphaherpesvirus that causes an acute and contagious disease with high mortality, resulting in substantial economic losses in the commercial waterfowl industry. The evasion of DNA-sensing pathway-mediated antiviral innate immunity is essential for the persistent infection and replication of many DNA viruses.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Sophorolipid-Producing Yeast Pseudohyphozyma bogoriensis ATCC 18809
Authors: Msanne Joseph , Shao Jonathan , Ashby Richard , Campos Philip , Liu Yanhong , Solaiman Daniel
Published: November 2022

Pseudohyphozyma bogoriensis
is gaining attention as a microbial source of high-value sophorolipids. We report here on its genomic sequence, which will improve our understanding of its metabolic pathways and allow the development of genome manipulation systems. PacBio sequencing was performed, yielding a 26-Mbp genome with 57% GC content and encoding 7,847 predicted proteins.
Growth and growth trajectory among infants in early life: contributions of food insecurity and water insecurity in rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Koyratty Nadia , Ntozini Robert , Mbuya Mduduzi NN , Jones Andrew D , Schuster Roseanne C , Kordas Katarzyna , Li Chin-Shang , Tavengwa Naume V , Majo Florence D , Humphrey Jean , Smith Laura E
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Stunting or linear growth faltering, measured by length-for-age Z-score (LAZ), remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in rural low-income and middle-income countries. It is a marker of inadequate environments in which infants are born and raised. However, the contributions of household resource insecurities, such as food and water, to growth and growth trajectory are understudied.

Methods

We used the cluster-randomised Sanitation Hygiene and Infant Nutrition Efficacy trial to determine the association of household-level food insecurity (FI) and water insecurity (WI) on LAZ and LAZ trajectory among infants during early life. Dimensions of FI (poor access, household shocks, low availability and quality) and WI (poor access, poor quality, low reliability) were assessed with the multidimensional household food insecurity and the multidimensional household water insecurity measures. Infant length was converted to LAZ based on the 2006 WHO Child Growth Standards. We report the FI and WI fixed effects from multivariable growth curve models with repeated measures of LAZ at 1, 3, 6, 12 and 18 months (M1–M18).

Results

A total of 714 and 710 infants were included in our analyses of LAZ from M1 to M18 and M6 to M18, respectively. Mean LAZ values at each time indicated worsening linear growth. From M1 to M18, low food availability and quality was associated with lower LAZ (β=−0.09; 95% −0.19 to –0.13). From M6 to M18, poor food access was associated with lower LAZ (β=−0.11; 95% −0.20 to –0.03). None of the WI dimensions were associated with LAZ, nor with LAZ trajectory over time.

Conclusion

FI, but not WI, was associated with poor linear growth among rural Zimbabwean infants. Specifically, low food availability and quality and poor food access was associated with lower LAZ. There is no evidence of an effect of FI or WI on LAZ trajectory.
Predatory conferences: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Godskesen Tove , Eriksson Stefan , Oermann Marilyn H , Gabrielsson Sebastian
Published: November 2022

Objective

To systematically map the scholarly literature on predatory conferences and describe the present state of research and the prevalent attitudes about these conferences.

Methods

This scoping review follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Four databases were searched (PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus and ProQuest Social Sciences Premium Collection). In addition, the included studies’ reference lists were scanned for additional papers not found in the searches. Peer-reviewed publications were included irrespective of study design. Letters and commentary were included if they were peer reviewed. Editorials and literature reviews were excluded.

Results

From 809 initial publications, 20 papers were included in the review, from 12 countries and covered a wide range of science disciplines, from nursing/medicine to energy/technology and computer science. More than half were empirical and published after 2017. In most papers, a definition of the term predatory conferences was put forward. Spam email invitations with flattering language were the most common characteristics, and the conferences were often hosted by unknown organisations that used copied pictures without permission. High fees, lack of peer review, and a multidisciplinary scope were signal features. All papers explicitly or implicitly suggested possible reasons for participating in predatory conferences. Some reasons were related to the overall context of academic work, the nature of predatory conferences (eg, researchers falling prey to misleading information about a conference or choosing a conference based on an attractive location) and the personal characteristics of researchers. Only one paper reported empirically identified reasons for participating in predatory conferences. The three countermeasures proposed most frequently to deal with predatory conferences were increasing education, emphasising responsibilities of universities and funders, and publishing lists of predatory publishers associated with conferences.

Conclusions

This review identified a scarcity of research concerning predatory conferences. Future empirical as well as fully analytical research should be encouraged by funders, journals and research institutions.
Perioperative mortality in Colombia: perspectives of the fourth indicator inThe LancetCommission on Global Surgery – Colombian Surgical Outcomes Study (ColSOS) – a protocol for a multicentre prospective cohort study
Authors: Pérez-Rivera Carlos J , Lozano-Suárez Nicolás , Velandia-Sánchez Alejandro , Polanía-Sandoval Camilo A , García-Méndez Juan P , Idarraga-Ayala Sharon V , Corso-Ramírez Julián M , Conde-Monroy Danny , Cruz-Reyes Danna L , Durán-Torres Carlos F , Barrera-Carvajal Juan G , Rojas-Serrano Luisa Fernanda , Garcia-Zambrano Laura Alejandra , Agudelo-Mendoza Silvia Valentina , Briceno-Ayala Leonardo , Cabrera-Rivera Paulo A
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Death following surgical procedures is a global health problem, accounting for 4.2 million deaths annually within the first 30 postoperative days. The fourth indicator ofThe LancetCommission on Global Surgery is essential as it seeks to standardise postoperative mortality. Consequently, it helps identify the strengths and weaknesses of each country’s healthcare system. Accurate information on this indicator is not available in Colombia, limiting the possibility of interventions applied to our population. We aim to describe the in-hospital perioperative mortality of the surgical procedures performed in Colombia. The data obtained will help formulate public policies, improving the quality of the surgical departments.

Methods and analysis

An observational, analytical, multicentre prospective cohort study will be conducted throughout Colombia. Patients over 18 years of age who have undergone a surgical procedure, excluding radiological/endoscopic procedures, will be included. A sample size of 1353 patients has been projected to achieve significance in our primary objective; however, convenience sampling will be used, as we aim to include all possible patients. Data collection will be carried out prospectively for 1 week. Follow-up will continue until hospital discharge, death or a maximum of 30 inpatient days. The primary outcome is perioperative mortality. A descriptive analysis of the data will be performed, along with a case mix analysis of mortality by procedure-related, patient-related and hospital-related conditions

Ethics and dissemination

The Fundación Cardioinfantil-Instituto de Cardiología Ethics Committee approved this study (No. 41–2021). The results are planned to be disseminated in three scenarios: the submission of an article for publication in a high-impact scientific journal and presentations at the Colombian Surgical Forum and the Congress of the American College of Surgeons.

Trial registration number

NCT05147623.
Effect of social media interventions on the education and communication among patients with cancer: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Banaye Yazdipour Alireza , Niakan Kalhori Sharareh R , Bostan Hassan , Masoorian Hoorie , Ataee Elham , Sajjadi Hasan
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. In addition, it accounted for approximately 10 million deaths in 2020 alone. Information and communication technologies have great potential for improving health education and communication. Social media is one of the technologies that can help patients with cancer and healthcare providers communicate and provide educational information. Social media are increasingly being used for health promotion and behaviour change. This is a protocol of systematic review to identify the effect of social media interventions on the education and communication among patients affected by cancer. This study aims to reveal the steps of conducting research that systematically reviews all studies for the specific objective. This study aims to examine the social media interventions to improve awareness and knowledge about the disease for patients with cancer and improve communication among them.

Methods and analysis

This protocol is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols checklist. We will include experimental design studies that report the effect of social media interventions on education and communication among patients with cancer or malignancy and any stage of the disease. Interventions will be inclusive, using all social network platforms for patients' communication and education. We will search PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and the Cochrane Library from inception until 23 May 2022. Two independent reviewers will screen titles, abstracts and full-text articles with conflicts resolved through discussion or by a third reviewer, as needed. All titles, abstracts and full-text papers will be reviewed independently by two reviewers according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Discrepancies will resolve by discussion or SRNK if needed. The two reviewers will also independently complete risk of bias assessments for each included study. The descriptive analysis, including frequency and percentage parameters, will be calculated based on the study’s variables. Furthermore, we will report the results of the quality assessment of studies in table format. In the result section, a narrative synthesis will be applied to describe and compare the paper’s results.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval will not be needed because the data to be used in this systematic review and meta-analysis will be extracted from published studies. It will be disseminated by publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022334691.