bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entomomonas asaccharolytica sp. nov., isolated from Acheta domesticus
Authors: Busse Hans-Jürgen , Kämpfer Peter , Szostak Michael P. , Spergser Joachim
Published: September 2021

Strain F2AT, isolated from the cricket Acheta domesticus, was subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic characterization. Cells of the strain were rod-shaped, Gram-stain-negative and catalase- and oxidase-positive. It did not assimilate any carbohydrates. The strain's 16S rRNA gene sequence showed highest similarity to

Entomomonas moraniae

QZS01T (96.4 %). The next highest similarity values were found to representatives of related genera (<93 %). The genome size of strain F2AT was 3.2 Mbp and the G+C content was 36.4 mol%. Average nucleotide identity values based on blast and MUMmer and average amino acid identity values between strain F2AT and

E. moraniae

QZS01T were 74.29/74.43, 83.88 and 74.70 %, respectively. The quinone system predominantly contained ubiquinone Q-8. In the polar lipid profile, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified phospholipid were detected. The polyamine pattern consisted of the major compounds putrescine and spermidine. Major fatty acids were C18 : 1 ω7c and C16 : 0 and the hydroxyl acids were C12 : 0 3-OH, C14 : 0 2-OH and C14 : 0 3-OH. The diagnostic diamino acid of the peptidoglycan was meso-diaminopimelic acid. Due to its association with the only species of the genus

Entomomonas

but its distinctness from

E. moraniae

we here propose the novel species Entomomonas asaccharolytica sp. nov. F2AT (=CCM 9136T=LMG 32211T).
Anaerocolumna chitinilytica sp. nov., a chitin-decomposing anaerobic bacterium isolated from anoxic soil subjected to biological soil disinfestation
Authors: Ueki Atsuko , Tonouchi Akio , Kaku Nobuo , Ueki Katsuji
Published: September 2021

An obligately anaerobic bacterial strain (CTTWT) belonging to the family

Lachnospiraceae

within the class

Clostridia

was isolated from an anoxic soil sample subjected to biological or reductive soil disinfestation. Cells of the strain were Gram-stain-positive, short rods with peritrichous flagella. The strain was saccharolytic and decomposed polysaccharides, chitin, xylan and β-1,3-glucan. Strain CTTWT decomposed cell biomass and cell-wall preparations of an ascomycete plant pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. spinaciae. The strain produced acetate, ethanol, H2 and CO2 as fermentation products from the utilized substrates. The major cellular fatty acids of the strain were C16 : 1 ω7c dimethylacetal (DMA), C16 : 0 DMA and C18 : 1 ω7c DMA. The closely related species of strain CTTWT based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences were species in the genus

Anaerocolumna

with sequence similarities of 95.2–97.6 %. Results of genome analyses of strain CTTWT indicated that the genome size of the strain was 5.62 Mb and the genomic DNA G+C content was 38.3 mol%. Six 16S rRNA genes with five different sequences from each other were found in the genome. Strain CTTWT had genes encoding chitinase, xylanase, cellulase, β-glucosidase and nitrogenase as characteristic genes in the genome. Homologous genes encoding these proteins were found in the genomes of the related

Anaerocolumna

species, but the genomic and phenotypic properties of strain CTTWT were distinct from them. Based on the phylogenetic, genomic and phenotypic analyses, the name Anaerocolumna chitinilytica sp. nov., in the family

Lachnospiraceae

is proposed for strain CTTWT (=NBRC 112102T=DSM 110036T).
Comparative molecular evolution of chitinases in ascomycota with emphasis on mycoparasitism lifestyle
Authors: Wang Chao , Zeng Zhao-Qing , Zhuang Wen-Ying
Published: September 2021

Chitinases are involved in multiple aspects of fungal life cycle, such as cell wall remodelling, chitin degradation and mycoparasitism lifestyle. To improve our knowledge of the chitinase molecular evolution of Ascomycota, the gene family of 72 representatives of this phylum was identified and subjected to phylogenetic, evolution trajectory and selective pressure analyses. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the chitinase gene family size and enzyme types varied significantly, along with species evolution, especially for groups B and C. In addition, two new subgroups, C3 and C4, are recognized in group C chitinases. Random birth and death testing indicated that gene expansion and contraction occurred in most of the taxa, particularly for species in the order Hypocreales (class Sordariomycetes). From an enzyme function point of view, we speculate that group A chitinases are mainly involved in species growth and development, while the expansion of genes in group B chitinases is related to fungal mycoparasitic and entomopathogenic abilities, and, to a certain extent, the expansion of genes in group C chitinases seems to be correlated with the host range broadening of some plant-pathogenic fungi in Sordariomycetes. Further selection pressure testing revealed that chitinases and the related amino acid sites were under positive selection in the evolutionary history, especially at the nodes sharing common ancestors and the terminal branches of Hypocreales. These results give a reasonable explanation for the size and function differences of chitinase genes among ascomycetes, and provide a scientific basis for understanding the evolutionary trajectories of chitinases, particularly that towards a mycoparasitic lifestyle.
Out-of-Pocket expenditures associated with Congenital Zika Syndrome in Brazil: an analysis of household health spending
Authors: de Aguiar Pereira Claudia Cristina , de Goes Cavalcanti Luciano Pamplona , Hofer Cristina Barroso , de Barros Reis Carla
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The study aims to estimate out-of-pocket household expenditures associated with the diagnosis and follow-up treatment of Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS) in children affected during the 2015-2016 epidemic in Brazil.

Methods

Ninety-six interviews were held in the cities of Fortaleza and Rio de Janeiro in a convenience sample, using a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics and private household expenditures associated with the syndrome, which also allowed estimating catastrophic expenditures resulting from care for CZS.

Results

Most of the mothers interviewed in the study were brown, under 34 years of age, unemployed, and reported a monthly family income of two minimum wages or less. Spending on medicines accounted for 77.6% of the out-of-pocket medical expenditures, while transportation and food were the main components of nonmedical expenditures, accounting for 79% of this total. The mean annual out-of-pocket expenditures by households was equivalent to almost a quarter of the annual minimum wage.

Conclusions

The affected households were largely low-income and suffered catastrophic expenditures due to the disease. Public policies should consider the financial and healthcare needs of these families to ensure adequate support for individuals affected by CZS.
Trans-ancestry genome-wide analysis of atrial fibrillation provides new insights into disease biology and enables polygenic prediction of cardioembolic risk
Authors: Miyazawa Kazuo , Ito Kaoru , Zou Zhaonan , Matsunaga Hiroshi , Koyama Satoshi , Ieki Hirotaka , Nomura Seitaro , Akiyama Masato , Kurosawa Ryo , Yoshida Hiroki , Ozaki Kouichi , Onouchi Yoshihiro ,   BioBank Japan Project, Takahashi Atsushi , Matsuda Koichi , Murakami Yoshinori , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Kubo Michiaki , Momozawa Yukihide , Terao Chikashi , Oki Shinya , Akazawa Hiroshi , Kamatani Yoichiro , Komuro Issei
Published: September 2021

To understand the genetic underpinnings of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the Japanese population, we performed a large-scale genome-wide association study comprising 9,826 cases of AF among 150,272 individuals and identified five new susceptibility loci, including East Asian-specific rare variants. A trans-ancestry meta-analysis of >1 million individuals, including 77,690 cases, identified 35 novel loci. Leveraging gene expression and epigenomic datasets to prioritize putative causal genes and their transcription factors revealed the involvement of IL6R gene and transcription factor ERG besides the known ones. Further, we constructed a polygenic risk score (PRS) for AF, using the trans-ancestry meta-analysis. PRS was associated with an increased risk of long-term cardiovascular and stroke mortality, and segregated individuals with cardioembolic stroke in undiagnosed AF patients. Our results provide novel biological and clinical insights into AF genetics and suggest their potential for clinical applications.
Autoantibodies against IL-1-receptor-antagonist in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children
Authors: Pfeifer Jochen , Thurner Bernhard , Kessel Christoph , Fadle Natalie , Regitz Evi , Hoffmann Marie-Christin , Kos Igor , Preuss Klaus-Dieter , Fischer Yvan , Roemer Klaus , Lohse Stefan , Heyne Kristina , Detemple Marie-Claire , Fedlmeier Michael , Juenger Hendrik , Sauer Harald , Meyer Sascha , Rohrer Tilman , Wittkowski Helmut , Masjosthusmann Katja , Becker Sören L. , Smola Sigrun , Bewarder Moritz , Boehm Michael , Anton Jordi , Pino-Ramirez Rosa Maria , Abdul-Khaliq Hashim , Foell Dirk , Thurner Lorenz
Published: September 2021

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C or PIMS) is a rare but serious complication after an infection with SARS-CoV-2. A possible involvement of pathogenetically relevant autoantibodies has been discussed. Recently neutralizing autoantibodies against anti-inflammatory receptor antagonists progranulin (PGRN) and IL-1-receptor antagonist (IL-1-Ra) were discovered in adult patients with critical COVID-19.

Plasma of an index case with severe PIMS/MIS-C was analyzed for autoantibodies against IL-1-Ra and PGRN. The study was extended by a case series of 12 additional patients. In addition to ELISA for of antibodies, IL-1-Ra plasma levels were determined and IL-1-Ra was analyzed by Western-blot and isoelectric focusing. Functional activity of the autoantibodies was examined in vitro with IL-1ß reporter assays.

Antibodies against IL-1-Ra could be detected in 10 of 13 (76.9%) patients with PIMS/MIS-C, but not in controls. In contrast to critical COVID-19 in adults, no IL-1-Ra antibodies of the IgM class were detected in PIMS/MIS-C. IL-1-Ra-antibodies exclusively belonged to IgG1. No antibodies directed against PGRN were detected. Western blots and ELISA showed a concomitant reduction of free IL-1-Ra plasma levels in the presence of IL-1-Ra-antibodies. The antibodies inhibited IL-1-Ra function in IL-1ß reporter cell assays. Notably, an additional, hyperphosphorylated, transiently occurring atypical isoform of IL-1-Ra was observed in all IL-1-Ra autoantibody-positive patients.

To conclude, IL-1-Ra autoantibodies were observed in high frequency in children with PIMS/MIS-C. They may represent a diagnostic and pathophysiologically relevant marker for PIMS/MIS-C. Their generation is likely to be triggered by an atypical, hyperphosphorylated isoform of IL-1-Ra.
In silicocancer immunotherapy trials uncover the consequences of therapy-specific response patterns for clinical trial design and outcome
Authors: Creemers Jeroen , Ankan Ankur , Roes Kit C.B. , Schröder Gijs , Mehra Niven , Figdor Carl G. , de Vries I. Jolanda M. , Textor Johannes
Published: September 2021

Late-stage cancer immunotherapy trials often lead to unusual survival curve shapes, like delayed curve separation or a plateauing curve in the treatment arm. It is critical for trial success to anticipate such effects in advance and adjust the design accordingly. Here, we usein silicocancer immunotherapy trials – simulated trials based on three different mathematical models – to assemble virtual patient cohorts undergoing late-stage immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or combination therapies. We find that all three simulation models predict the distinctive survival curve shapes commonly associated with immunotherapies. Considering four aspects of clinical trial design – sample size, endpoint, randomization rate, and interim analyses – we demonstrate how, by simulating various possible scenarios, the robustness of trial design choices can be scrutinized, and possible pitfalls can be identified in advance. We provide readily usable, web-based implementations of our three trial simulation models to facilitate their use by biomedical researchers, doctors, and trialists.
Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 variants from 24,181 patients exemplifies the role of globalisation and zoonosis in pandemics
Authors: Colson Philippe , Fournier Pierre-Edouard , Chaudet Hervé , Delerce Jérémy , Giraud-Gatineau Audrey , Houhamdi Linda , Andrieu Claudia , Brechard Ludivine , Bedotto Marielle , Prudent Elsa , Gazin Céline , Beye Mamadou , Burel Emilie , Dudouet Pierre , Tissot-Dupont Hervé , Gautret Philippe , Lagier Jean-Christophe , Million Matthieu , Brouqui Philippe , Parola Philippe , Drancourt Michel , Scola Bernard La , Levasseur Anthony , Raoult Didier
Published: September 2021

After the end of the first epidemic episode of SARS-CoV-2 infections, as cases began to rise again during the summer of 2020, we at IHU Méditerranée Infection in Marseille, France, intensified the genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2, and described the first viral variants. In this study, we compared the incidence curves of SARS-CoV-2-associated deaths in different countries and reported the classification of SARS-CoV-2 variants detected in our institute, as well as the kinetics and sources of the infections. We used mortality collected from a COVID-19 data repository for 221 countries. Viral variants were defined based on ≥5 hallmark mutations shared by ≥30 genomes. SARS-CoV-2 genotype was determined for 24,181 patients using next-generation genome and gene sequencing (in 47% and 11% of cases, respectively) or variant-specific qPCR (in 42% of cases). Sixteen variants were identified by analysing viral genomes from 9,788 SARS-CoV-2-diagnosed patients. Our data show that since the first SARS-CoV-2 epidemic episode in Marseille, importation through travel from abroad was documented for seven of the new variants. In addition, for the B.1.160 variant of Pangolin classification (a.k.a. Marseille-4), we suspect transmission from mink farms. In conclusion, we observed that the successive epidemic peaks of SARS-CoV-2 infections are not linked to rebounds of viral genotypes that are already present but to newly-introduced variants. We thus suggest that border control is the best mean of combating this type of introduction, and that intensive control of mink farms is also necessary to prevent the emergence of new variants generated in this animal reservoir.
Anthropometric measures and their relationship to corneal refractive power in the United States population
Authors: Valluru Girish , Henick Daniel , Klawe Janek , Liu Bian , Pasquale Louis R. , Ahmad Sumayya
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To determine the relationship between anthropometric measures and corneal refractive power (CRP).

Methods

Participants from the 1999-2008 United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) visual exam with demographic, ocular, and anthropometric data (20,165 subjects) were included. Cases with steep cornea were defined by corneal power ≥ 48.0 diopters (n = 171) while controls had dioptric power < 48.0 D (n = 19,994). Multivariable analyses were performed for pooled and sex-stratified populations. Separate models assessed body mass index, height, and weight in relation to steep cornea.

Results

A relationship between BMI and steep cornea in the pooled population was not detected (P for trend = 0.78). There was a strong inverse relationship between height and steep cornea in the pooled population (P for trend <0.0001) and women (P for trend <0.0001). For every 1-inch increase in height, there was a 16% reduced odds of steep cornea in the pooled population (OR, 0.84; 95% CI: 0.78-0.91). There was also a significant inverse relationship between weight and steep cornea in the pooled population (P for trend = 0.01) and in men (P for trend = 0.02). For each 10-pound increase in weight there was a 7% reduced odds of steep cornea (OR, 0.927; 95% CI: 0.882-0.975) in the pooled analysis.

Conclusions

Greater height and greater weight were associated with a lower risk of steep cornea. These findings can contribute to an improved understanding of the pathogenesis of corneal ectasias.
Clinical Trial Data Sharing: A Cross-Sectional Study of Outcomes Associated with Two NIH Models
Authors: Rowhani-Farid Anisa , Egilman Alexander C. , Zhang Audrey D. , Gross Cary P. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Ross Joseph S.
Published: September 2021

Background

The impact and value of clinical trial data sharing, including the number and quality of publications that result from shared data – “shared data publications” – may differ depending on the data sharing model used.

Methods

We characterized the outcomes associated with two data sharing models previously used by Institutes of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH): NHLBI’s centralized model, which uses a repository to manage data sharing requests, and NCI’s decentralized model, which entrusted research groups to independently manage data sharing requests. We identified trials completed in 2010 that met NIH data sharing criteria and matched studies sponsored by each Institute based on cost or size, determining whether trial data were shared and the frequency of shared data publications.

Results

We identified 14 NHLBI-funded trials and 48 NCI-funded trials that met NIH data sharing criteria. We matched 14 NCI-funded trials to the 14 NHLBI-funded trials; among these, 4 NHLBI-sponsored trials (29%) and 2 NCI-sponsored trials (14%) shared data. From the 2 NCI-sponsored trials sharing data, we identified 2 shared data publications, one per trial, both of which were meta-analyses. From the 4 NHLBI-sponsored trials sharing data, we identified 7 shared data publications, all using data from 1 trial, 5 of which were pooled analyses and 2 reported secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

When characterizing the outcomes associated with two NIH data sharing models, both the NHLBI and the NCI models resulted in only 21% of trials sharing data and few shared data publications. There are opportunities to optimize clinical trial data sharing efforts both to enhance clinical trial data sharing and increase the number of shared data publications.
Accumulation of auranofin in white adipose tissues lowers leptin levels and exerts anti-diabetic effects
Authors: Cox Aaron R. , Masschelin Peter M. , Saha Pradip K , Felix Jessica B. , Sharp Robert , Lian Zeqin , Xia Yan , Chernis Natasha , Bader David A. , Kim Kang Ho , Li Xin , Yoshino Jun , Li Xin , Sun Zheng , Wu Huaizhu , Coarfa Cristian , Moore David D. , Klein Samuel , Sun Kai , Hartig Sean M.
Published: September 2021

Low-grade, sustained inflammation in white adipose tissue (WAT) characterizes obesity and frequently coincides with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, pharmacological targeting of WAT inflammation lacks durable therapeutic effects. Through a computational screen, we identified the FDA-approved rheumatoid arthritis drug auranofin is a putative small molecule for obesity treatment. We discovered that allometrically scaled safe auranofin doses homed to WAT and improved insulin sensitivity in obese wild-type mice. Auranofin treatment also normalized other obesity-associated abnormalities, including hepatic steatosis and hyperinsulinemia. Surprisingly, the anti-diabetic effects of auranofin required leptin lowering and beta-adrenergic receptors in WAT. These metabolic benefits of leptin reduction were superior to any immune impacts of auranofin in WAT. Our studies reveal important metabolic properties of anti-inflammatory treatments and contribute to the notion that leptin reduction in the periphery can be accomplished to treat obesity and T2D.
Performance tradeoffs for spare parts supply chains with additive manufacturing capability servicing intermittent demand
Authors: McDermott Kyle C. , Winz Ryan D. , Hodgson Thom J. , Kay Michael G. , King Russell E. , McConnell Brandon M.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The study aims to investigate the impact of additive manufacturing (AM) on the performance of a spare parts supply chain with a particular focus on underlying spare part demand patterns.

Design/methodology/approach

This work evaluates various AM-enabled supply chain configurations through Monte Carlo simulation. Historical demand simulation and intermittent demand forecasting are used in conjunction with a mixed integer linear program to determine optimal network nodal inventory policies. By varying demand characteristics and AM capacity this work assesses how to best employ AM capability within the network.

Findings

This research assesses the preferred AM-enabled supply chain configuration for varying levels of intermittent demand patterns and AM production capacity. The research shows that variation in demand patterns alone directly affects the preferred network configuration. The relationship between the demand volume and relative AM production capacity affects the regions of superior network configuration performance.

Research limitations/implications

This research makes several simplifying assumptions regarding AM technical capabilities. AM production time is assumed to be deterministic and does not consider build failure probability, build chamber capacity, part size, part complexity and post-processing requirements.

Originality/value

This research is the first study to link realistic spare part demand characterization to AM supply chain design using quantitative modeling.
Management of pre-university Egyptian education: politics, issues and trend
Authors: Zaki Ewiss M.A.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Educational management's main task is to achieve learning quality outcomes in acquiring knowledge, scientific skills and social values. This study aims to provide a background on Egyptian thought development in educational management from 1990 to 2020.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we used the descriptive method to collect and interpret data. This method aims to describe an object of phenomena after data collection, analyze it, identify the conditions and relationships between variables and monitor the challenges arising from Egypt's educational system's problems.

Findings

The results showed the following: (1) the trend toward decentralization of educational management is not fulfill during that period and (2) the district and directorate administration continued to receive administrative instructions from the managerial ladder's highest authorities. The Ministry of Education was in control of policy decision-making processes and administrative and financial responsibilities. Many decisions and laws hinder decentralization, such as centralizing examinations, curricula and teachers' recruitment and transfer.

Originality/value

The challenges of developing educational management are related to the shortage of modern management methods in administrative leadership, organizational behavior and decision-making, such as human relations and decentralized administration. Also, the insufficient material resources, managerial competencies and educational, intellectual stagnation among many leaders and administrators.
Can Islamic work ethics encourage knowledge-sharing behaviors? The role of job embeddedness and organizational identification
Authors: Suryani Suryani , Sudrajat Budi , Hendryadi Hendryadi , Oktrivina Amelia , Hafifuddin Hafifuddin , Ali Buto Zulfikar
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between Islamic work ethics (IWE), job embeddedness and knowledge-sharing behaviors. It also tested the mediating effects of job embeddedness and the moderating effects of organizational identification on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 396 respondents from Islamic banks in Indonesia participated in this study. Data analyzes for hypothesis testing were conducted using Hayes’ PROCESS macro-based hierarchical regression.

Findings

The findings suggest that subscribing to IWEs positively and significantly impacts job embeddedness and knowledge-sharing behaviors. Moreover, job embeddedness was confirmed as a mediator in the relationship between IWEs and knowledge-sharing behavior. Finally, the effects of IWEs on knowledge-sharing behaviors are stronger when employees attain a high level of organizational identification.

Practical implications

By encouraging the adoption of IWEs, organizations can develop job embeddedness and promote knowledge-sharing in the workplace, especially in an Islamic banking context. Therefore, managers should strengthen the mutual understanding among employees regarding IWE principles. They should be consistently applied and disseminated by Islamic banks’ management in the form of a formal code of ethics that applies to all actions within the organization.

Originality/value

This study was conducted to extend the understanding of IWE and its relationship with workplace outcomes in modern organizations. Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, social identity theory and Islamic theology, new insights are provided by explaining the psychological mechanism underlying the relationship between IWEs and knowledge-sharing behaviors while proposing organizational identification as the boundary condition.
Linking brand personality to brand equity: measuring the role of consumer-brand relationship
Authors: Ahmad Anees , Swain Swapnarag , Singh Pankaj Kumar , Yadav Rambalak , Prakash Gyan
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between brand personality and customer-based brand equity (CBBE) by investigating the mediating role of consumer-brand relationship (CBR), which is represented through three variables, namely, brand trust, attachment and commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a cross-sectional descriptive research design. It included a mix of symbolic and utilitarian brands, namely, Pepsi and Sprite (soft drinks), Levi’s and Peter England (clothing), Pantene and Head and Shoulders (shampoos) based on their greater familiarity among Indian consumers. Primary data were gathered from 612 respondents through a self-administered online questionnaire survey approach. Structural equation modeling was performed to analyze data and validate the research model.

Findings

The present study establishes both direct, as well as the indirect linkage between brand personality and CBBE. Results also suggest a partial mediating role of the variables representing CBR while linking brand personality to CBBE.

Originality/value

The present study makes two contributions. First, it advances existing literature on brand personality and brand equity by establishing the mediating role of the CBR while linking brand personality to CBBE. Second, it establishes the importance of both the trust and attachment-based commitment mediator model of CBR influencing CBBE, which has not been addressed by prior studies.
How should economics view the Internet?
Authors: Tao Li
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The study aims to elaborate the author’s basic viewpoints on how economics should view the Internet from four aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the existing literature on this topic, and summarizes key findings and conclusions of these researches.

Findings

The findings include four major contradictions in economics brought by the Internet, and 12 new changes in economics that needs to be addressed.

Originality/value

This paper provides a clear summary of existing studies on economics’ views of the internet and a prospect for future internet economy research.
Synergistic model to boost business performance: a New Zealand case study
Authors: Kijkasiwat Ploypailin , Cave Jenny , Hewa Wellalage Nirosha , Locke Stuart
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study investigates whether there is an association between business symbiosis and the performance of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted 200 surveys, using ordered logistic regression to evaluate the results. Participants are MSME business owners in Cambridge, New Zealand.

Findings

The authors found that connections with banks and other businesses in the same and across different industries, positively associates with changes in MSME profitability. Additionally, operating a business as a franchisee under the regulations or headquarter issued rules is positively associated with change in net profit.

Originality/value

While there are limitations with cross-sectional data, the study indicates a mechanism and frameworks for policy analysis when deciding on allocation of funds to particular networks.
Performance assessment of ASTA MicroIDSys, a new matrix assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry system, for identification of viridans group streptococci
Authors: Lee O‐Jin , Ko Young Jin , Lee Seul‐Bi , Kim Choon Mee , Jang Sook‐Jin , Kook Joong‐Ki , Lim Yun Kyong , Shin Jong Hee , Shin Myung Geun , Kee Seung Jung , Jeong Seok Hoon , Kang Seong‐Ho , Park Geon
Published: September 2021

The performance of the ASTA MicroIDSys system (ASTA), a new matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) system, was evaluated for the identification of viridans group streptococci (VGS) and compared with the results obtained with the Bruker Biotyper system (Bruker Daltonics). A total of 106 Streptococcus reference strains belonging to 24 species from the bacterial strain bank was analyzed using the two MALDI‐TOF MS systems. Of the 106 reference strains tested, ASTA MicroIDSys and Bruker Biotyper correctly identified 84.9% and 81.1% at the species level, 100% and 97.2% at the group level and 100% and 98.1% at the genus level, respectively. The difference between the two systems was not statistically significant (P = 0.289). Out of 24 species, 13 species were accurately identified to the species level with 100% accurate identification rates with both systems. The accurate identification rates at the species level of ASTA MicroIDSys and Bruker Biotyper were 100% and 87.5% for the S. anginosus group; 78.4% and 73.5% for the S. mitis group; 91.7% and 91.7% for the S. mutans group; and 100% and 100% for the S. salivarius group, respectively. The ASTA MicroIDSys showed an identification performance equivalent to that of the Bruker Biotyper for VGS. Therefore, it would be useful for the identification of VGS strains in clinical microbiology laboratories.
Factors that influence fluid flow in a single fracture
Authors: Fu Bo‐Ye , Cheng Arthur , Li Yunyue Elita , Zong Jingjing
Published: September 2021

To investigate the influence of compression, Poisson effect and turbulence on the fluid flow process and the inversion for fracture surface geometries, we simulate two sets of fractures: one with a defined fracture height standard deviation σ constant and a varying autocorrelation length λ and another with a fixed λ and a changing σ. Under compression, the normal stress closes fractures with a large aperture and thus reduces the effective permeability. However, the Poisson effect, which is induced by the compression, has little influence on the fluid flow properties and does not affect the inversion for fracture height standard deviation or the autocorrelation length. When introducing turbulence, we observe a significant difference between the performance of the Navier–Stokes equation and the local cubic law; compared with the Navier–Stokes equation, the local cubic law overestimates the peak value of the breakthrough time curve and effective permeability, thereby underestimating the mean fracture aperture.
What are the drivers of SMEs' financial performance? The interaction of intellectual capital and ownership
Authors: Tran Quan , Doan Anh‐Tuan , Tran Thao
Published: September 2021

This research examines the relationship between intellectual capital (IC) and corporate performance in the context of Asian developing economies characterised by an underdeveloped corporate‐governance system. Using a sample of 1,958 small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in Asian developing countries covering a 10‐year period from 2007 to 2016, we investigate this relationship in a dynamic modelling framework that controls for potential sources of endogeneity. We find that IC components, namely, human capital and relational capital, have a positive effect on SMEs' financial performance. The results reveal that human and relational capitals appear to be key elements that enhance the basis of service quality for the SME. Furthermore, the results show that structural capital is positively associated with long‐term SME financial performance. Regarding the impact of ownership, the positive impacts of human and structural capitals on financial performance are significantly lower for SMEs with more government ownership, and the positive impact of relational capital on financial performance is significantly higher for SMEs with more foreign ownership. Our findings highlight the important implication that owners or managers closely manage a firm's IC because it is a source of SME value creation and financial performance.
Job Characteristics and the Changing Nature of Work
Authors: Wooden Mark
Published: September 2021

This article provides a brief and selective review of research studies examining job characteristics and the changing nature of work that have used data from the HILDA Survey. It focuses on research into job satisfaction (and job quality more broadly), working time and forms of employment.
Tax Threat and the Disruptive Market Power of Foreign Portfolio Investors
Authors: Marshall Andrew , Farag Hisham , Neupane Biwesh , Neupane Suman , Thapa Chandra
Published: September 2021

We investigate the equity trading behaviour of foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and the potential stock market implications during a period of tax treatment uncertainty in the Indian emerging market. Theoretical arguments predict that the trading reactions (entry and exit) of FPIs not only depend on the severity and credibility of the tax reforms, but also on FPIs’ ability to harm the host capital market by their actions. FPIs may promptly and materially exit the host capital market in response to tax policy reforms that impose potential additional costs. Economic arguments also posit that these withdrawals may carry significant negative implications for the host stock market. Further, given FPIs’ experience regarding the questionable credibility of the host country's tax reforms and lingering uncertainty on future tax changes, FPIs may not re‐enter the market with the same speed and volume as they exited, once the tax threat has been removed. The findings of our quasi‐experimental setup, exploiting a significant exogenous tax reform and using unique FPIs’ transaction‐level data, are consistent with these theoretical expectations.
Association of CD2AP neuronal deposits with Braak neurofibrillary stage in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Camacho Jessica , Rábano Alberto , Marazuela Paula , Bonaterra‐Pastra Anna , Serna Garazi , Moliné Teresa , Ramón y Cajal Santiago , Martínez‐Sáez Elena , Hernández‐Guillamon Mar
Published: September 2021

Genome‐wide association studies have described several genes as genetic susceptibility loci for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Among them, CD2AP encodes CD2‐associated protein, a scaffold protein implicated in dynamic actin remodeling and membrane trafficking during endocytosis and cytokinesis. Although a clear link between CD2AP defects and glomerular pathology has been described, little is known about the function of CD2AP in the brain. The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of CD2AP in the AD brain and its potential associations with tau aggregation and β‐amyloid (Aβ) deposition. First, we performed immunohistochemical analysis of CD2AP expression in brain tissue from AD patients and controls (N = 60). Our results showed granular CD2AP immunoreactivity in the human brain endothelium in all samples. In AD cases, no CD2AP was found to be associated with Aβ deposits in vessels or parenchymal plaques. CD2AP neuronal inclusions similar to neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) and neuropil thread‐like deposits were found only in AD samples. Moreover, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that CD2AP colocalized with pTau. Regarding CD2AP neuronal distribution, a hierarchical progression from the entorhinal to the temporal and occipital cortex was detected. We found that CD2AP immunodetection in neurons was strongly and positively associated with Braak neurofibrillary stage, independent of age and other pathological hallmarks. To further investigate the association between pTau and CD2AP, we included samples from cases of primary tauopathies (corticobasal degeneration [CBD], progressive supranuclear palsy [PSP], and Pick's disease [PiD]) in our study. Among these cases, CD2AP positivity was only found in PiD samples as neurofibrillary tangle‐like and Pick body‐like deposits, whereas no neuronal CD2AP deposits were detected in PSP or CBD samples, which suggested an association of CD2AP neuronal expression with 3R‐Tau‐diseases. In conclusion, our findings open a new road to investigate the complex cellular mechanism underlying the tangle conformation and tau pathology in the brain.
Building an assessment of community‐defined social‐emotional competencies from the ground up in Tanzania
Authors: Jukes Matthew C. H. , Mgonda Nkanileka Loti , Tibenda Jovina J. , Gabrieli Prosper , Jeremiah Grace , Betts Kellie L. , Williams Jason , Bub Kristen L.
Published: September 2021

Two studies were conducted in 2017 to investigate children's competencies seen as important by communities in Mtwara, Tanzania. Qualitative data from 95 parents (34 women) and 27 teachers (11 women) in Study 1 indicated that dimensions of social responsibility, such as obedience, were valued highly. In Study 2, the competencies of 477 children (245 girls), aged 4–13 years, were rated by teachers and parents. Factor analysis found the obedient factor explained the most variance in parent rating. In line with predictions, urban residence, parental socioeconomic status (SES), and parental education were all positively associated with ratings of curiosity, and parental SES was negatively associated with obedience and emotional regulation. Findings illustrate the need for culturally specific frameworks of social‐emotional learning.
Sputum microRNA‐screening reveals Prostaglandin EP3 receptor as selective target in allergen‐specific immunotherapy
Authors: Jakwerth Constanze A. , Chaker Adam M. , Guerth Ferdinand , Oelsner Madlen , Pechtold Lisa , zur Bonsen Lynn S. , Ullmann Julia T. , Krauss‐Etschmann Susanne , Erb Anna , Kau Josephine , Plaschke Mirjam , Winkler Marlene , Kurz Alexandra , Kloss Antonia , Esser‐von Bieren Julia , Schmidt‐Weber Carsten B. , Zissler Ulrich M.
Published: September 2021

Background

Several microRNAs (miRs) have been described as potential biomarkers in liquid biopsies and in the context of allergic asthma, while therapeutic effects on the airway expression of miRs remain elusive. In this study, we investigated epigenetic miR‐associated mechanisms in the sputum of grass pollen‐allergic patients with and without allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT).

Methods

Induced sputum samples of healthy controls (HC), AIT‐treated and ‐untreated grass pollen‐allergic rhinitis patients with (AA) and without asthma (AR) were profiled using miR microarray and whole‐transcriptome microarray analysis of the same samples. miR targets were predicted in silico and used to identify inverse regulation. Local PGE2 levels were measured using ELISA.

Results

Two hundred and fifty nine miRs were upregulated in the sputum of AA patients compared with HC, while only one was downregulated. The inverse picture was observed in induced sputum of AIT‐treated patients: while 21 miRs were downregulated, only 4 miRs were upregulated in asthmatics upon AIT. Of these 4 miRs, miR‐3935 stood out, as its predicted target PTGER3, the prostaglandin EP3 receptor, was downregulated in treated AA patients compared with untreated. The levels of its ligand PGE2 in the sputum supernatants of these samples were increased in allergic patients, especially asthmatics, and downregulated after AIT. Finally, local PGE2 levels correlated with ILC2 frequencies, secreted sputum IL‐13 levels, inflammatory cell load, sputum eosinophils and symptom burden.

Conclusions

While profiling the sputum of allergic patients for novel miR expression patterns, we uncovered an association between miR‐3935 and its predicted target gene, the prostaglandin E3 receptor, which might mediate AIT effects through suppression of the PGE2‐PTGER3 axis.
Viral kinetics and outcomes of adenovirus viremia following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Chandorkar Aditya , Anderson Anthony D. , Morris Michele I. , Natori Yoichiro , Jimenez Antonio , Komanduri Krishna V. , Camargo Jose F.
Published: September 2021

Background

Adenovirus (AdV) is a serious infection following hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). Little is known about AdV viral kinetics and optimal threshold for initiation of pre‐emptive therapy.

Methods

Single‐center retrospective study of 16 consecutive adult HCT recipients with detectable AdV identified over a 5‐year period.

Results

Median time to AdV reactivation after HCT was 176 days (IQR 86–408). Nine patients received cidofovir, although 14/16 had no tissue‐invasive disease. Among treated patients, median duration of viremia was shorter when initiating treatment at viral loads < 10,000 copies/ml (28 vs. 52 days). All‐cause mortality in this cohort was 44%. All six patients (five of which were untreated) with peak viral loads < 10,000 copies/ml survived; whereas only 30% (3/10) of patients with peak viral loads greater than this threshold survived, despite most (n = 8; 80%) of them receiving cidofovir (P = .01). Three‐month survival following diagnosis of AdV viremia was significantly lower with peak viremia > 10,000 copies/ml (100 vs. 17%; P = .005).

Conclusion

AdV is associated with high all‐cause mortality, especially for viremia > 10,000 copies/ml. Delaying therapy until viremia reaches AdV levels ≥10,000 copies/ml was associated with more protracted infection and poor outcomes. Larger studies are needed.
Accurate endoscopic identification of the afferent limb at the Y anastomosis using the fold disruption sign after gastric resection with Roux‐en‐Y reconstruction
Authors: Kanno Yoshihide , Ohira Tetsuya , Kozakai Fumisato , Miyamoto Kazuaki , Kusunose Hiroaki , Sakai Toshitaka , Yonamine Keisuke , Okano Haruka , Koshita Shinsuke , Ogawa Takahisa , Shimizu Takeshi , Ito Kei
Published: September 2021

In patients with Roux‐en‐Y (RY) reconstruction for gastric resection, the newly defined “fold disruption” (FD) sign can be useful to distinguish the afferent limb from the efferent limb at the Y anastomosis when balloon endoscopy‐assisted endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (BE‐ERCP) is performed. The FD sign was defined as endoscopic findings of the internal folds disrupted toward the afferent limb and continued toward the efferent limb at the Y anastomosis. In this prospective observational study, the accuracy of the FD sign was evaluated for those who underwent BE‐ERCP after gastric resection with RY reconstruction. Of 28 patients for whom the accuracy could be evaluated among 30 enrolled patients, the afferent limb was identified using the FD sign with 100% accuracy. For the other two patients, the scope could not reach the target lumen due to severe intestinal adhesion in one and reached the target lumen without recognition of the Y anastomosis in the other. There was no patient for whom the FD sign could not be judged for any reason, such as a blurred anastomosis line, unclear folds, sticky discharge and blood coating the surface, when the Y anastomosis was recognized. The FD sign was a highly accurate tool for distinguishing the afferent limb from the efferent limb in patients after gastric resection with RY reconstruction. This study was registered in UMIN (issued ID, UMIN000038326).
Charred plant fragment–aluminium complexes in buried humic horizons of a cumulative volcanic soil profile: Formation, accumulation and potential role
Authors: Shindo Haruo , Inoue Yudzuru
Published: September 2021

The objective of the present study was to investigate the formation, accumulation and potential role of charred plant fragment (CPF)–aluminium (Al) complexes in several buried A (Ab) horizons of a cumulative volcanic soil profile, focusing on CPFs, active Al components and soil age. Nineteen soil samples were collected from four buried humic horizons (2A–5A, from 7.3 cal ka BP to AD 1471), and their CPF–carbon (C), soil organic C (SOC), acid oxalate‐extractable Al (Alox), pyrophosphate‐extractable Al (Alpy, Al–humus complexes) and short‐range ordered Al minerals (Alox − Alpy) were quantified. The proportion of CPF–C content (up to 15.8 g kg−1) to SOC content (up to 117 g kg−1) ranged from 2.3% to 15.1% (8.4% on average). The contents of active Al components (6.71–77.1 g kg−1) increased: Alpy < Alox − Alpy < Alox. No consistent trends with age were found for the accumulation levels of CPF–C, SOC and active Al components. However, significant positive correlations (p < 0.001) were found between the Alpy and CPF–C and SOC contents, suggesting that the accumulation and stabilisation of soil organic matter in these humic layers proceeded simultaneously with the formation of organo–Al complexes, including CPF–Al complexes. On the other hand, significant negative correlations (p < 0.01) were obtained between the Alox − Alpy and Alpy, CPF–C or SOC contents. From these correlations, it was assumed that the complexation of organic constituents, including CPFs, with Al competed with the synthesis of short‐range ordered Al minerals (including allophane and imogolite), irrespective of soil age and climatic conditions with the range of more than 6000 years. This competitive relationship in the presence of CPFs was first described in the current study.

Highlights

Significance of charred plant fragment–aluminium complexes in humic horizons was discussed.

There were no consistent trends with age for the accumulation levels of organic constituents.

The accumulation of organic matter proceeded simultaneously with the formation of the complexes.

The formation of the complexes competed (>6000 years) with the synthesis of aluminium minerals.
Post‐sowing weed control technique can affect woody seedling numbers, with early hand‐weeding potentially more beneficial than early spraying
Authors: Ede Fiona , Greet Joe
Published: September 2021

Direct seeding is increasingly being used as a cost‐effective revegetation technique. Successful outcomes from direct seeding rely on effective weed control, particularly during the vulnerable seedling establishment phase. Post‐sowing weed control options are constrained by the need to protect seedlings from damage and few studies have compared the effectiveness of different weed control techniques. We evaluated the effect of preliminary hand weeding (with subsequent spraying), spraying monthly or spraying quarterly with glyphosate, on woody seedling emergence, survival and growth in trials sown either in spring or autumn at a riparian site in Victoria, southeastern Australia. Seedling numbers were recorded monthly for 6 months and at 12 months after sowing, with seedling survival and heights assessed at 12 months. Total seedling numbers were higher in subplots initially hand weeded than in subplots sprayed on either a monthly or quarterly basis, regardless of when direct seeding occurred, but weed control treatment had no effect on seedling survival. These results indicate that post‐sowing spraying limited rates of seedling emergence, either directly or indirectly. For direct seeding, hand weeding in the first few months after sowing may maximise rates of woody seedling emergence, while spraying with glyphosate may inhibit seedling emergence.