bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on capital budgeting practices of some selected companies in Bangladesh
Authors: Mollah Md. Anhar Sharif , Rouf Md. Abdur , Rana S.M. Sohel
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the current capital budgeting practices in Bangladeshi listed companies and provide a normative framework (guidelines) for practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected with a structured questionnaire survey taking from the chief financial officers (CFOs) of companies listed in the Dhaka Stock Exchange in Bangladesh. Garnered data were then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques.

Findings

The results found that net present value was the most prevalent capital budgeting method, followed closely by internal rate of return and payback period. Similarly, the weighted average cost of capital was found to be the widely used method for calculating cost of capital. Further, results also revealed that CFOs adjust their risk factor using discount rate.

Originality/value

The findings of this study might help the firms, policymakers and practitioners to take a wise decision while evaluating investment projects. Additionally, this study’s findings enrich the existing body of knowledge in the field of capital budgeting practices by providing more reliable and comprehensive analysis taking samples from a developing economy.
Managerial adaptability and business strategic change in age of COVID-19
Authors: Mercedes D'Alizza , Burrell Darrell Norman
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the consequential impact of COVID-19 on mental health organizations. Via the context organizational development (OD) action research of an organizational case analysis, this paper offers recommendations to mental health organizations on an approach to help recover from the financial losses caused by COVID-19 restrictions and to also help ensure that mental health specialists are provided with sufficient support so they may continue to provide meaningful service to clients in need of therapeutic care and assistance.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is an action research case study that uses an OD framework and a content analysis of the current literature.

Findings

The real-world case study uses an action research OD intervention to provide tools and recommendations that other similar organizations might be able to use to respond to COVID-19. The findings implicate practices and approaches that organizations can use to adapt to business and marketplace disruption of COVID-19.

Originality/value

COVID-19 is an emerging issue, as a result any research and development in this area is of significant value to researchers and professionals.
Antimicrobial uv curable wood coatings based on citric acid
Authors: Dixit Anand , Wazarkar Kunal , Sabnis Anagha S.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Epoxy acrylate which is commercially utilized for UV curable coatings although has excellent adhesion, flexibility, hardness and chemical resistance, they lack in antimicrobial properties. Citric acid (CA) is economical as well as a bio-based compound which possess an antimicrobial activity. So, the purpose of this research investigation is the preparation of CA-based oligomer which can be further incorporated with epoxy acrylate and tri (propylene glycol) Diacrylate (TPGDA) to form uv curable coating and the study of its antimicrobial property.

Design/methodology/approach

A UV-curable unsaturated oligomer (CUV) was synthesized from CA and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA). The chemical structure of CUV was confirmed by FTIR, 1H NMR, GPC, hydroxyl value, acid value and iodine value. Further, CUV was assimilated as an antimicrobial as well as crosslinking agent to copolymerize with epoxy acrylate oligomer and a series of UV-cured antimicrobial coatings were concocted by employing UV-curing machine. The consequence of varying the fraction of CUV on the mechanical, chemical, thermal and antimicrobial properties of UV-cured wood coatings was explored.

Findings

Results exhibited good mechanical, chemical and thermal properties. In addition, it was perceived that the zone of inhibition against S. aureus got enlarged with increasing content of CUV in the coating formulation.

Originality/value

The synthesized bio-based CUV reveals an extensive potential to ameliorate the antimicrobial properties of UV-curable coatings.
Chrysophyllum marginatum (Sapotaceae): Generalist pollination and cryptic gynomonoecious
Authors: Sigrist Maria Rosângela , Leme Flávia M. , Fabiano Vitória S. , Pinheiro Fernanda P. , dos Santos Ferreira Bruno H. , Nakamura Samanda S. , da Silva Sara O.
Published: April 2021

Chrysophyllum (Chrysophylloideae, Chrysophylleae) is the second largest genus in the Sapotaceae. Studies of pollination ecology in this genus are non‐existent, although there are records of entomophily for this family. Considering the lack of detailed studies on pollination ecology and sexual systems in Chrysophyllum species, we investigate the floral morphology and biology and floral visitors of Chrysophyllum marginatum to verify which sexual system is present in the studied population and whether flowers of this species are visited and pollinated by different insect groups. The population of C. marginatum has weak and cryptic gynomonoecy because the plants produce a low percentage of functionally pistillate flowers (4.2%) and these flowers appear to be perfect flowers (hermaphrode). Flowers of C. marginatum are phenotypically, ecologically and functionally generalist because: (a) they are actinomorphic, open and not restrictive in terms of access to floral resources; (b) they are visited by 26 species of insects that are potential pollinators; and (c) among these species several groups can be effective pollinators, mainly bees and flies, according to the most effective pollinator principle. We consider bees and flies to be the main pollinator group of C. marginatum, due to their high visitation rate, richness and intrafloral visiting behavior, and because they especially forage among plant individuals and are able to promote xenogamy. Nectaries were found in the ovary base and osmophores in the petal margins, as floral attractants. For Chrysophyllum, this is the first record of gynomonoecy and for the family this is considered the second record. Chrysophyllum marginatum has generalist and entomophilous pollination, as recorded in other Sapotaceae Neotropical species.
Impact of analysis technique on our understanding of the natural history of labour: a simulation study
Authors: de Vries BS , Mcdonald S , Joseph FA , Morton R , Hyett JA , Phipps H , McGeechan K
Published: April 2021

Objective

To evaluate the discrepancy between historical and more recent descriptions of the first stage of labour by testing whether the statistical techniques used recently (repeated‐measures polynomial and interval‐censored regression) were appropriate for detection of periods of rapid acceleration of cervical dilatation as might occur at the time of transition from a latent to an active phase of labour.

Design and setting

A simulation study using regression techniques.

Sample

We created a simulated data set for 500 000 labours with clearly defined latent and active phases using the parameters described by Friedman. Additionally, we created a data set comprising 500 000 labours with a progressively increasing rate of cervical dilatation.

Methods

Repeated‐measures polynomial regression was used to create summary labour curves based on simulated cervical examinations. Interval‐censored regression was used to create centimetre‐by‐centimetre estimates of rates of cervical dilatation and their 95th centiles.

Main outcome measures

Labour summary curves and rates of cervical dilatation.

Results

Repeated‐measures polynomial regression did not detect the rapid acceleration in cervical dilatation (i.e. acceleration phase) and overestimated lengths of labour, especially at smaller cervical dilatations. There was a two‐fold overestimation in the mean rate of cervical dilatation from 4 to 6 cm. Interval‐censored regression overestimated median transit times, at 4‐ to 5‐cm cervical dilatation or when cervical examinations occurred less frequently than 0.5‐ to 1.5‐hourly.

Conclusion

Repeated‐measures polynomial regression and interval‐censored regression should not be routinely used to define labour progress because they do not accurately reflect the underlying data.

Tweetable abstract

Repeated‐measures polynomial and interval‐censored regression techniques are not appropriate to model first stage of labour.
Paediatric patients report lower health‐related quality of life in daily clinical practice compared to new normative PedsQLTM data
Authors: van Muilekom Maud M. , Luijten Michiel A. J. , van Oers Hedy A. , Conijn Thirsa , Maurice‐Stam Heleen , van Goudoever Johannes B. , Grootenhuis Martha A. , Haverman Lotte ,   the KLIK collaborator group
Published: April 2021

Aim

To compare Health‐Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) of paediatric patients with newly collected HRQOL data of the general Dutch population, explore responses to individual items and investigate variables associated with HRQOL.

Methods

Children (8–12y) and adolescents (13–17y) from the general population (N = 966) and from a paediatric population (N = 1209) completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQLTM) online via the KLIK Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures portal. PedsQLTM scale scores were compared between groups with independent t tests, by age group and gender. Responses to PedsQLTM items were explored using descriptive analyses. Linear regression analyses were performed to determine which variables were associated with HRQOL.

Results

Paediatric patients reported worse HRQOL than the general population on all PedsQLTM scales (p ≤ .001, d = 0.20–1.03), except social functioning, and a high proportion reported problems on PedsQLTM items, for example, ‘I have trouble sleeping’. Younger age, female gender and school absence were negatively associated with HRQOL (β = −0.37–0.10, p ≤ .008).

Conclusion

Paediatric patients reported lower HRQOL than the general population, and school absence, female gender and younger age were associated with lower HRQOL. The results underline the importance to structurally monitor paediatric patients’ HRQOL in clinical practice to detect problems and offer the right help on time.
Beads for the nomads of late antiquity: Chemical characterization of glass from the Blemmyan tumuli at Kalabsha, Nubia, of the mid‐fourth century CE
Authors: Then‐Obłuska J. , Dussubieux L.
Published: April 2021

The mobility of the Blemmyes between the Nile Valley and the Red Sea coast, and their skill in trading, are well attested in the literary sources and in the archaeological record. While they operated mainly in the Eastern Desert, their cemeteries, dated to the mid‐fourth century ce, were located in the strategic region of the Dodekaschoinos of Lower Nubia. The personal adornments of the Blemmyes are mainly composed of beads, but the glass imports have not yet been scientifically studied. This paper presents the results of an analysis of 34 glass beads from Blemmyan cemeteries around Kalabsha. Compositional analyses using laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry has identified glass belonging to four groups. Numerous glass beads were made from low alumina soda‐lime glass (m‐Na‐Ca, m/v‐Na‐Ca), mainly associated with Egyptian production. Five beads were made of high‐alumina glass. While three of them were produced in South India/Sri Lanka, mixed or recycled glass was the probable source of high alumina in another two beads. One bead was made of plant ash‐soda glass. Results provide scientific evidence for the northernmost presence of South Indian/Sri Lankan glass beads in the Nile Valley and hint at the Blemmyan participation in broader regional exchange networks in North‐east Africa during a time of intensive overseas trade.
Identification of CXCL12‐abundant reticular cells in human adult bone marrow
Authors: Aoki Kazunari , Kurashige Masako , Ichii Michiko , Higaki Kei , Sugiyama Tatsuki , Kaito Takashi , Ando Wataru , Sugano Nobuhiko , Sakai Takashi , Shibayama Hirohiko ,   HANDAI Clinical Blood Club, Takaori‐Kondo Akifumi , Morii Eiichi , Kanakura Yuzuru , Nagasawa Takashi
Published: April 2021

A population of mesenchymal stem cells, termed CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)12‐abundant reticular (CAR) cells or leptin receptor‐expressing cells, are the major cellular component of niches for haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in murine bone marrow. CAR cells are characterized by several salient features, including much higher expression of CXCL12, stem cell factor (SCF), forkhead box C1 (FOXC1) and early B‐cell factor 3 (EBF3), which are essential for HSC maintenance, than other cells. However, the human counterpart of CAR cells has not been fully described. Here, we show the presence of cells expressing much higher CXCL12 than other cells in human adult bone marrow using a flow cytometry‐based in situ technique that enables high‐throughput detection of mRNA at single‐cell resolution. Most CXCL12hi cells expressed high levels of SCF, FOXC1 and EBF3 and had the potential to differentiate into adipocytes and osteoblasts. Histologically, the nuclei of CXCL12hi cells were identified and quantified by EBF3 expression in fixed marrow sections. CXCL12hi cells sorted from residual bone marrow aspirates of chronic myeloid leukaemia patients expressed reduced levels of CXCL12, SCF, FOXC1 and EBF3 in correlation with increased leukaemic burden. Together, we identified the human counterpart of CAR cells, enabling the evaluation of their alterations in various haematological disorders by flow cytometric and histological analyses.
Second allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation using HLA‐matched unrelated versus T‐cell replete haploidentical donor and survival in relapsed acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Kharfan‐Dabaja Mohamed A. , Labopin Myriam , Brissot Eolia , Kroger Nicolaus , Finke Jürgen , Ciceri Fabio , Deconinck Eric , Blaise Didier , Chevallier Patrice , Gramatzki Martin , Ganser Arnold , Stelljes Matthias , Edinger Matthias , Savani Bipin , Ruggeri Annalisa , Sanz Jaime , Nagler Arnon , Mohty Mohamad
Published: April 2021

Optimal donor choice for a second allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplant (allo‐HCT) in relapsed acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) remains unknown. We compared overall survival (OS) using registry data from the Acute Leukemia Working Party (ALWP) of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) involving 455 adults who received a second allo‐HCT from a human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐matched unrelated (MUD) (n = 320) or a haploidentical (n = 135) donor. Eligibility criteria required adults aged ≥18 years who received a second allo‐HCT for treating AML relapse between 2005 and 2019. The primary end‐point was OS. There was no statistically significant difference in the median (interquartile range) age between the groups, MUD 46 (35–58) versus haploidentical 44 (33–53) years (P = 0·07). The median OS was not different between the MUD and the haploidentical groups (10 vs. 11 months, P = 0·57). Similarly, the 2‐year OS was 31% for the MUD and 29% for the haploidentical donor groups. The OS was worse if the procedure was performed with active AML [hazard ratio (HR) 1·42, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·07–1·89; P = 0·02]. Conversely, a longer time from first allo‐HCT to relapse (>13·2 months) was associated with better OS (HR 0·50, 95% CI 0·37–0·69; P < 0·0001). The results of the present analysis limit the ability to recommend one donor type over another when considering a second allo‐HCT for relapsed AML. Our findings highlight that best OS is achieved when receiving the second allo‐HCT in complete remission.
LINC01123 enhances osteosarcoma cell growth by activating the Hedgehog pathway via the miR‐516b‐5p/Gli1 axis
Authors: Pan Xiaohui , Tan Jingxue , Tao Tao , Zhang Xiuwen , Weng Yiping , Weng Xiaokun , Xu Jingwen , Li Haibo , Jiang Yuqing , Zhou Dong , Shen Yifei
Published: April 2021

The lncRNA LINC01123 has been reported to act as an oncogene in many human cancers. Nevertheless, the function and underlying mechanism of LINC01123 in osteosarcoma (OS) remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the roles and mechanisms of LINC01123 in OS progression. In this study, the expression of LINC01123 was significantly upregulated in OS cell lines than in a human osteoblast cell line. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that knockdown of LINC01123 suppressed cell progression. Mechanistically, LINC01123 acted as a competing endogenous RNA by sponging miR‐516b‐5p, thus, increasing Gli1 expression by directly targeting its 3ʹUTR. Taken together, LINC01123 enhances OS proliferation and metastasis via the miR‐516b‐5p/Gli1 axis. Therefore, LINC01123 may be a potential therapeutic target for OS treatment.
Glycoconjugates, hypothetical proteins, and post‐translational modification: Importance in host–pathogen interaction and antitubercular intervention development
Authors: Arega Aregitu Mekuriaw , Mahapatra Rajani Kanta
Published: April 2021

With the emergence of multidrug‐resistant bacteria, insufficiency of the established chemotherapy, and the existing vaccine BCG, tuberculosis (TB) subsists as the chief cause of death in different parts of the world. Thus, identification of novel target proteins is urgently required to develop more effective TB interventions. However, the novel vaccine and drug target knowledge based on the essentiality of the pathogen cell envelope components such as glycoconjugates, glycans, and the peptidoglycan layer of the lipid‐rich capsule are limited. Furthermore, most of the genes encoding proteins are characterized as hypothetical and functionally unknown. Correspondingly, some researchers have shown that the lipid and sugar components of the envelope glycoconjugates are largely in charge of TB pathogenesis and encounter many drugs and vaccines. Therefore, in this review we provide an insight into a comprehensive study concerning the importance of cell envelope glycoconjugates and hypothetical proteins, the impact of post‐translational modification, and the bioinformatics‐based implications for better antitubercular intervention development.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of screening for primary aldosteronism in China
Authors: Li Na , Huang Jingze , Zheng Bin , Cai Hongfu , Liu Maobai , Liu Libin
Published: April 2021

Objective

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is an underdiagnosed cause of hypertension. Although the medical costs will increase if all patients with elevated blood pressure are screened, the number of missed diagnosed patients with PA and the medical resources subsequently consumed by adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events can be reduced. This study aimed to conduct economic evaluation PA screening strategies in Chinese patients with hypertension, that is PA screening in patients with high‐risk hypertension and all patients with hypertension, to determine the cost‐effective method.

Methods

The decision tree and Markov model were constructed using TreeAge Pro 2020. Using the latter, a 30‐year course of hypertension after different screening strategies was simulated, with a cycle of one year. The model parameters included epidemiological data, clinical efficacy, cost and effectiveness. The total cost of treatment and quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) were simulated to conduct a cost‐effectiveness analysis. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses of the model were also performed.

Results

PA screening patients with high‐risk hypertension and all patients with hypertension obtained 15.75 and 15.77 QALYs and the costs were $2488.39 and $2482.15, respectively. The strategy of PA screening in all patients with hypertension is cost‐saving and produces more health outcomes. The sensitivity analysis showed that the results were reliable.

Conclusion

From the perspective of China's health system, the strategy of screening all hypertensive patients for PA may be more cost‐effective than screening only high‐risk patients and providing standard antihypertensive treatment for low‐risk hypertensive patients.
Association of weight status and carbohydrate intake with gestational weight gain
Authors: Callahan Makenzie L. , Schneider‐Worthington Camille R. , Martin Samantha L. , Gower Barbara A. , Catalano Patrick M. , Chandler‐Laney Paula
Published: April 2021

Test the hypothesis that women with obesity have greater gestation weight gain (GWG) with a moderately higher, vs lower, carbohydrate (CHO) diet, independent of energy intake, whereas GWG for women of normal weight would not differ by CHO group. This was a secondary analysis of data collected from glucose tolerant women with normal weight (NW) or obesity in pregnancy. Women completed a three‐day food diary 16 to 20 weeks. A median split for percent kilocalories from CHO (median = 49.6%) categorized women into moderately highCHO vs lowCHO groups (n = 13‐15/group). GWG was calculated between consent and the last prenatal care visit. A two‐way ANOVA was used to examine whether there was an interaction between weight status and CHO group on GWG, independent of energy intake, time between consent and last prenatal visit, and age. Women in both highCHO groups consumed more sugars and starches compared to women in the lowCHO groups (P < .05). A significant interaction between weight status and CHO content of the diet was found (P < .05), such that, for women with obesity, those consuming a lowCHO diet had less GWG than those consuming a highCHO diet, whereas the pattern was opposite for women with NW. Results suggest that intake of a moderately lower CHO diet may help limit GWG among glucose tolerant women with obesity. Given that women in this study were eligible only if they had normal fasting glucose concentrations in early pregnancy, it is not clear if these results would generalize to all women with obesity during pregnancy.
Developing a realist informed framework for cultural adaptation of lifestyle interventions for the prevention of type 2 diabetes in South Asian populations in Europe
Authors: Davidson Emma M. , Krasuska Marta , Jenum Anne Karen , Gill Jason M. R. , Beune Erik , Stronks Karien , van Valkengoed Irene G. M. , Diaz Esperanza , Sheikh Aziz
Published: April 2021

Aims

Selected lifestyle interventions proven effective for White‐European populations have been culturally adapted for South Asian populations living in Europe, who are at higher risk of type 2 diabetes. However, a limited theoretical basis underpins how cultural adaptations are believed to augment intervention effectiveness. We undertook a realist review to synthesise existing literature on culturally adapted type 2 diabetes prevention interventions, to develop a framework that shows ‘how’ cultural adaptation works, for ‘whom’ and in ‘what contexts’.

Methods

We followed the stepped methodological approach of realist review. Our work concluded a European‐wide project (EuroDHYAN), and core studies were identified from the preceding EuroDHYAN reviews. Data were extracted, coded into themes and synthesised to create ‘Context–Mechanism–Outcome’ configurations and to generate a refined explanatory framework.

Results

We identified eight core intervention papers. From this evidence, and supporting literature, we examined the ‘Team’ domain of cultural adaptation and identified a mechanism of shared cultural identity which we theorised as contributing to strong team‐participant relationships. We also identified four key contexts which influenced intervention outcomes: ‘research setting’ and ‘heterogeneous populations’ (intrinsic to the intervention) and ‘broader environment’ and ‘socio‐cultural stress’ (extrinsic barriers).

Conclusions

This work instigates research into the mechanisms of cultural adaptation which, if pursued, will allow a more nuanced understanding of how to apply adaptations, and for whom. In practice we recommend greater consideration of heterogeneous and intersecting population characteristics; how intervention design can safeguard sustainability; and how the four key contexts identified influence how, and whether, these interventions work.
The facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy Rasch‐built overall disability scale (FSHD‐RODS)
Authors: Mul Karlien , Hamadeh Tatiana , Horlings Corinne G. C. , Tawil Rabi , Statland Jeffrey M. , Sacconi Sabrina , Corbett Alastair J. , Voermans Nicol C. , Faber Catharina G. , van Engelen Baziel G. M. , Merkies Ingemar S. J.
Published: April 2021

Background and objectives

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FHSD) is a debilitating inherited muscle disease for which various therapeutic strategies are being investigated. Thus far, little attention has been given in FSHD to the development of scientifically sound outcome measures fulfilling regulatory authority requirements. The aim of this study was to design a patient‐reported Rasch‐built interval scale on activity and participation for FSHD.

Methods

A pre‐phase FSHD‐Rasch‐built overall disability scale (pre‐FSHD‐RODS; consisting of 159 activity/participation items), based on the World Health Organization international classification of disease‐related functional consequences was completed by 762 FSHD patients (Netherlands: n = 171; UK: n = 287; United States: n = 221; France: n = 52; Australia: n = 32). A proportion of the patient cohort completed it twice (n = 230; interval 2–4 weeks; reliability studies). The pre‐FSHD‐RODS was subjected to Rasch analyses to create a model fulfilling its requirements. Validity studies were performed through correlation with the motor function measure.

Results

The pre‐FSHD‐RODS did not meet the Rasch model expectations. Based on determinants such as misfit statistics and misfit residuals, differential item functioning, and local dependency, we systematically removed items until a final 38‐inquiry (originating from 32 items; six items split) FSHD‐RODS was constructed achieving Rasch model expectations. Adequate test‐retest reliability and (cross‐cultural and external) validity scores were obtained.

Conclusions

The FSHD‐RODS is a disease‐specific interval measure suitable for detecting activity and participation restrictions in patients with FSHD with good item/person reliability and validity scores. The use of this scale is recommended in the near future, to determine the functional deterioration slope in FSHD per year as a preparation for the upcoming clinical intervention trials in FSHD.
Biology and therapeutic potential of human innate lymphoid cells
Authors: Bennstein Sabrina Bianca , Uhrberg Markus
Published: April 2021

In the last decade, innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have become established as important players in different areas such as tissue homeostasis, integrity of mucosal barriers and regulation of inflammation. While most of the early work on ILCs was based on murine studies, our knowledge on human ILCs is rapidly accumulating, opening novel perspectives towards the translation of ILC biology into the clinic. In this State‐of‐the‐Art Review, we focus on the current knowledge of these most recently discovered members of the lymphocyte family and highlight their role in three major burdens of humanity: infectious diseases, cancer, and allergy and/or autoimmunity. IL‐22‐producing type 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) have become established as important players at the interface between gut epithelia and intestinal microbiome and are implicated in protection from inflammatory bowel disease, the control of graft‐versus‐host disease and intestinal graft rejection. In contrast, type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) exert pro‐inflammatory functions and contribute to the pathology of asthma and allergy, which has already been started to be pharmacologically targeted. The contribution of ILCs to the control of viral infection constitutes another emerging topic. Finally, ILCs seem to play a dual role in cancer with beneficial and detrimental contributions depending on the clinical setting. The exploitation of the therapeutic potential of ILCs will constitute an exciting task in the foreseeable future.
A liquid culture cancer spheroid model reveals low PI3K/Akt pathway activity and low adhesiveness to the extracellular matrix
Authors: Abe‐Fukasawa Natsuki , Watanabe Rina , Gen Yuki , Nishino Taito , Itasaki Nobue
Published: April 2021

Three‐dimensional (3D) cultures of cancer cells in liquid without extracellular matrix (ECM) offer in vitro models for metastasising conditions such as those in vessels and effusion. However, liquid culturing is often hindered by cell adhesiveness, which causes large cell clumps. We previously described a liquid culture material, LA717, which prevents nonclonal cell adhesion and subsequent clumping, thus allowing clonal growth of spheroids in an anchorage‐independent manner. Here, we examined such liquid culture cancer spheroids for the acquisition of apical–basal polarity, sensitivity to an Akt inhibitor (anticancer drug MK‐2206) and interaction with ECM. The spheroids present apical plasma membrane on the surface, which originated from the failure of polarisation at the single‐cell stage and subsequent defects in phosphorylated ezrin accumulation at the cell boundary during the first cleavage, failing internal lumen formation. At the multicellular stage, liquid culture spheroids presented bleb‐like protrusion on the surface, which was enhanced by the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway and reduced by PI3K/Akt inhibitors. Liquid culture spheroids exhibited slow proliferation speed and low endogenous pAkt levels compared with gel‐cultured spheroids and 2D‐cultured cells, explaining the susceptibility to the Akt‐inhibiting anticancer drug. Subcutaneous xenografting and in vitro analysis demonstrated low viability and adhesive property of liquid culture spheroids to ECM, while migratory and invasive capacities were comparable with gel‐cultured spheroids. These features agree with the low efficacy of circulating tumour spheroids in the settling step of metastasis. This study demonstrates the feature of anchorage‐independent spheroids and validates liquid cultures as a useful method in cancer spheroid research.
Impacts of climate change on aquatic insects in temperate alpine regions: Complementary modeling approaches applied to Swiss rivers
Authors: Timoner Pablo , Fasel Marc , Ashraf Vaghefi Seyed Saeid , Marle Pierre , Castella Emmanuel , Moser Frédéric , Lehmann Anthony
Published: April 2021

Freshwater biodiversity loss is a major concern, and global warming is already playing a significant role in species extinctions. Our main goal was to predict climate change impacts on aquatic insect species distribution and richness in Swiss running waters according to two climate change scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5), using different modeling approaches, that is, species distribution models (SDMs), stacked‐SDMs (S‐SDMs) and a macroecological model (MEM). We analyzed 10,808 reaches, used as spatial units for model predictions, for a total river network length of 20,610 km. Results were assessed at both the countrywide and the biogeographic regional scales. We used incidence data of 41 species of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) from 259 sites distributed across Switzerland. We integrated a coupled model for hydrology and glacier retreat to simulate monthly time‐step discharge from which we derived hydrological variables. These, along with thermal, land‐cover, topographic and spatially explicit data, served as predictors for our ecological models. Predictions of occurrence probabilities and EPT richness were compared among the different regions, periods and scenarios. A Shiny web application was developed to interactively explore all the models’ details, to ensure transparency and promote the sharing of information. MEM and S‐SDMs approaches consistently showed that overall, climate change is likely to reduce EPT richness. Decrease could be around 10% in the least conservative scenario, depending on the region. Global warming was shown to represent a threat to species from high elevation, but in terms of species richness, running waters from lowlands and medium elevation seemed more vulnerable. Finally, our results suggested that the effects of anthropogenic activities could overweight natural factors in shaping the future of river biodiversity.
Subslab Depressurization Versus Subslab Ventilation: Insights from Recent Research
Authors: McAlary Todd A.
Published: April 2021

Many vapor intrusion (VI) mitigation systems involve some form of gas extraction from below the concrete floor slab of a building to create a static vacuum below the slab that meets or exceeds a value specified in a guidance document or standard. This also results in some degree of ventilation below the floor slab, which reduces vapor concentrations and achieves some level of mass removal of target chemicals. The relative contribution of vacuum and ventilation to protecting building occupants is generally not quantified. Recent research completed under ESTCP Project ER‐201322 yields some new insights using new lines of evidence. The results warrant changes in the guidance documents and standards of practice to promote and enable VI mitigation system designs that vary according to the transmissivity of the material below the floor slab and the rate of vertical leakance of indoor air across the floor slab and incorporate additional lines of evidence including the mass removal rate.
Age‐related changes in ocular mucosal tolerance: Lessons learned from gut and respiratory tract immunity
Authors: Galletti Jeremias G. , de Paiva Cintia S.
Published: April 2021

The ocular surface is the part of the visual system directly exposed to the environment, and it comprises the cornea, the first refractive tissue layer and its surrounding structures. The ocular surface has evolved to keep the cornea smooth and wet, a prerequisite for proper sight, and also protected. To this aim, the ocular surface is a bona fide mucosal niche with an immune system capable of fighting against dangerous pathogens. However, due to the potential harmful effects of uncontrolled inflammation, the ocular surface has several mechanisms to keep the immune response in check. Specifically, the ocular surface is maintained inflammation‐free and functional by a particular form of peripheral tolerance known as mucosal tolerance, markedly different from the immune privilege of intraocular structures. Remarkably, conjunctival tolerance is akin to the oral and respiratory tolerance mechanisms found in the gut and airways, respectively. And also similarly, this form of immunoregulation in the eye is affected by ageing just as it is in the digestive and respiratory tracts. With ageing comes an increased prevalence of immune‐based ocular surface disorders, which could be related to an age‐related impairment of conjunctival tolerance. The purpose of this review was to summarize the present knowledge of ocular mucosal tolerance and how it is affected by the ageing process in the light of the current literature on mucosal immunoregulation of the gut and airways.
FRIZZY PANICLE defines a regulatory hub for simultaneously controlling spikelet formation and awn elongation in bread wheat
Authors: Du Dejie , Zhang Dongxue , Yuan Jun , Feng Man , Li Zhaoju , Wang Zihao , Zhang Zhaoheng , Li Xiongtao , Ke Wensheng , Li Renhan , Chen Zhaoyan , Chai Lingling , Hu Zhaorong , Guo Weilong , Xing Jiewen , Su Zhenqi , Peng Huiru , Xin Mingming , Yao Yingyin , Sun Qixin , Liu Jie , Ni Zhongfu
Published: April 2021

Grain yield in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is largely determined by inflorescence architecture. Zang734 is an endemic Tibetan wheat variety that exhibits a rare triple spikelet (TRS) phenotype with significantly increased spikelet/floret number per spike. However, the molecular basis underlying this specific spike morphology is completely unknown.

Through map‐based cloning, the causal genes for TRS trait in Zang734 were isolated. Furthermore, using CRISPR/Cas9‐based gene mutation, transcriptome sequencing and protein–protein interaction, the downstream signalling networks related to spikelet formation and awn elongation were defined.

Results showed that the null mutation in WFZP‐A together with deletion of WFZP‐D led to the TRS trait in Zang734. More interestingly, WFZP plays a dual role in simultaneously repressing spikelet formation gene TaBA1 and activating awn development genes, basically through the recruitments of chromatin remodelling elements and the Mediator complex.

Our findings provide insights into the molecular bases by which WFZP suppresses spikelet formation but promotes awn elongation and, more importantly, define WFZP‐D as a favourable gene for high‐yield crop breeding.
Genotypic and phenotypic profiles of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria isolated from hospitalised patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarjana Safain Kazi , Bhuyan Golam Sarower , Hassan Hasib Saad , Islam Mohammad Sazzadul , Mahmud‐Un‐Nabi Mohammad Al , Sultana Rosy , Tasnim Sadia , Noor Farjana Akther , Sarker Suprovath Kumar , Islam Md Tarikul , Rahat Asifuzzaman , Leung Daniel T. , Domman Daryl , Manzoor Farhana , Anwar Sajid , Majid Bhuiyan Md Abdul , Chowdhury Emran Kabir , Qadri Syed Saleheen , Qadri Firdausi , Mannoor Kaiissar
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Characterisation of resistance phenotype and genotype is crucial to understanding the burden and transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study aims to determine the spectrum of AMR and associated genes encoding aminoglycoside, macrolide and β‐lactam classes of antimicrobials in bacteria isolated from hospitalised patients in Bangladesh.

Methods

430 bacterial isolates from patients with respiratory, intestinal, wound infections and typhoid fever, presenting to clinical care from 2015 to 2019, were examined. They included Escherichia coli (n = 85); Staphylococcus aureus (n = 84); Salmonella typhi (n = 82); Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 42); Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 36); coagulase‐negative staphylococci (n = 28); Enterococcus faecalis (n = 27); Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 26); and Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 20). Reconfirmation of these clinical isolates and antimicrobial susceptibility tests was performed. PCR amplification using resistance gene‐specific primers was done, and the amplified products were confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Results

53% of isolates were multidrug‐resistant (MDR), including 97% of Escherichia coli. There was a year‐wise gradual increase in MDR isolates from 2015 to 2018, and there was an almost twofold increase in the number of MDR strains isolated in 2019 (P = 0.00058). Among the 5 extended‐spectrum β‐lactamases investigated, CTX‐M‐1 was the most prevalent (63%) followed by NDM‐1 (22%); Escherichia coli was the major reservoir of these genes. The ermB (55%) and aac(6′)‐Ib (35%) genes were the most frequently detected macrolide and aminoglycoside resistance genes, respectively.

Conclusion

MDR pathogens are highly prevalent in hospital settings of Bangladesh.
Active Vibration Control of a Small-Scale Flexible Structure Subject to Moving-Loads and Experimental Validation
Authors: Sievert Lukas , Stancioiu Dan , Matthews Christian
Published: April 2021

This study directly addresses the problem of optimal control of a structure under the action of moving masses. The main objective is to experimentally implement and validate an active control solution for a small-scale test stand. The supporting structure is modeled as an Euler–Bernoulli simply supported beam, acted upon by moving masses of different weights and velocities. The experimental implementation of the active controller poses a particular set of challenges as compared with the numerical solutions. It is shown both numerically and experimentally that using electromagnetic actuation, a reduced order controller designed using a time-varying algorithm provides a reduction of the maximum deflection of up to 18% as compared with the uncontrolled structure. The controller performance and robustness were tested against a representative set of possible moving load parameters. In consequence of the variations in moving mass weight and speed, the controller gain requires a supplementary adaptation. A simple algorithm that schedules the gain as a function of the weight and speed of the moving mass can achieve both a good performance and an adjustment of the control effort to the specific design requirements.
An analysis of parton distribution functions of the pion and the kaon with the maximum entropy input
Authors: Han Chengdong , Xie Gang , Wang Rong , Chen Xurong
Published: April 2021

We present pion and kaon parton distribution functions from a global QCD analysis of the experimental data within the framework of dynamical parton model. We use the DGLAP equations with parton–parton recombination corrections and the valence input of uniform distribution which maximizes the information entropy. At our input scale $$Q_0^2$$

Q
0
2

, there are no sea quark and gluon distributions. All the sea quarks and gluons of the pion and the kaon are completely generated from the parton splitting processes. The mass-dependent parton splitting kernel is applied for the strange quark distribution in the kaon. The obtained valence quark and sea quark distributions at high $$Q^{2}$$

Q
2

($$Q^2>5$$

Q
2

>
5

GeV$$^2$$

2

) are compatible with the existed experimental measurements. Furthermore, the asymptotic behaviours of parton distribution functions at small and large x have been studied for both the pion and the kaon. Lastly, the first three moments of parton distributions at high $$Q^{2}$$

Q
2

scale are calculated, which are consistent with other theoretical predictions.
A technique to study the elastic and inelastic interaction of quarkonium with hadrons using femtoscopic correlations
Authors: Bahmani Marzieh , Kikoła Daniel , Kosarzewski Leszek
Published: April 2021

We present a method for the measurement of parameters of elastic and inelastic interactions of charmonium with hadrons. In this technique, we use femtoscopic analysis of charmonium-hadron correlations at low relative momentum and the Lednicky-Lyuboshitz analytical model to extract the interaction parameters. We argue that such a study is already feasible in the LHCb experiment at the LHC, and we discuss the prospects for studies in STAR at RHIC and other experiments at the LHC.
Use of a Smartphone to Gather Parkinson’s Disease Neurological Vital Signs during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Alberts Jay L. , Koop Mandy Miller , McGinley Marisa P. , Penko Amanda L. , Fernandez Hubert H. , Shook Steven , Bermel Robert A. , Machado André , Rosenfeldt Anson B.
Published: April 2021

Introduction. To overcome travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer-based technology was rapidly deployed to the smartphones of individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) participating in a 12-month exercise trial. The aim of the project was to determine the feasibility of utilizing a combined synchronous and asynchronous self-administered smartphone application to characterize PD symptoms. Methods. A synchronous video virtual visit was completed for the administration of virtual Movement Disorder Society-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale III (vMDS-UPDRS III). Participants asynchronously completed a mobile application consisting of a measure of upper extremity bradykinesia (Finger Tapping Test) and information processing. Results. Twenty-three individuals completed the assessments. The mean vMDS-UPDRS III was 23.65 ± 8.56 points. On average, the number of taps was significantly greater for the less affected limb, 97.96 ± 17.77 taps, compared to the more affected, 89.33 ± 18.66 taps (p = 0.025) with a significantly greater number of freezing episodes for the more affected limb (

p
<
0.05

). Correlation analyses indicated the number of errors and the number of freezing episodes were significantly related to clinical ratings of vMDS-UPDRS III bradykinesia (Rho = 0.44,

p
<
0.01

; R = 0.43,

p
<
0.01

, resp.) and finger tapping performance (Rho = 0.31,

p
=
0.03

; Rho = 0.32,

p
=
0.03

, resp.). Discussion. The objective characterization of bradykinesia, akinesia, and nonmotor function and their relationship with clinical disease metrics indicate smartphone technology provides a remote method of characterizing important aspects of PD performance. While theoretical and position papers have been published on the potential of telemedicine to aid in the management of PD, this report translates the theory into a viable reality.
Predictive Value of First-Trimester Glycosylated Hemoglobin Levels in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Chinese Population Cohort Study
Authors: Sun Jianbin , Chai Sanbao , Zhao Xin , Yuan Ning , Du Jing , Liu Yufang , Li Zhi , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: April 2021

This study was aimed at exploring the predictive value of first-trimester glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). A total of 744 pregnant women registered at the Peking University International Hospital between March 2017 and March 2019 were included in this study. Data on personal characteristics and biochemical indicators of the pregnant women were collected during the first trimester. The International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups has adopted specific diagnostic criteria as the gold standard for the diagnosis of GDM. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve statistics were used to assess the predictive value of first-trimester HbA1c levels in the diagnosis of GDM. HbA1c levels in the first trimester were significantly higher in the GDM group than in the non-GDM group (

5.23
%
±
0.29
%

vs.

5.06
±
0.28
%

,

P
<
0.05

). The first-trimester HbA1c level was an independent risk factor for gestational diabetes. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of HbA1c for GDM was 0.655 (95% confidence interval 0.620-0.689,

P
<
0.001

). The positive likelihood ratio was the highest at

HbA
1
c
=
5.9
%

, sensitivity was 2.78, and specificity was 99.83%. There was no statistical difference in AUC between fasting blood glucose and HbA1c (

P
=
0.407

). First-trimester HbA1c levels can be used to predict GDM. The risk of GDM was significantly increased in pregnant women with

first
‐
trimester
 
HbA
1
c
 
levels
>
5.9
%

. There was no statistical difference between first-trimester HbA1c and fasting blood glucose levels in predicting GDM.
Bottom-Up Approach Ship Emission Inventory in Port of Incheon Based on VTS Data
Authors: Lee Hyangsook , Pham Hoang T. , Chen Maowei , Choo Sangho
Published: April 2021

As a result of the rapid growth of international trade, atmospheric pollution from transportation has been more topical than ever, especially in dense hub port-cities. The shipping industry should pay more attention corresponding to its contribution to local atmospheric pollution. This paper supports the application of data collected from the vessel tracking service system with a bottom-up approach to generate a comprehensive 2019 local ship emission inventory at Port of Incheon. The calculated emission inventory presented the dominance of CO2 emission and the considerable contribution of NOx and SOx emissions, the significant contribution of auxiliary engines during the hotelling at berth during the year of 2019. Then, based on calculated emission inventory, this study suggested and simulated applicable green policies in the practice: (1) local emission control area realization, (2) vessel speed reduction program, (3) application of cold ironing, and (4) establishment of a national integrated emission platform. The combination of the three first policies could help reduce the significant volume of emitted CO (29%), NOx (30%), SOx (93%), PM10 and PM2.5 (64%), VOC (28%), NH3 (30%), and CO2 (30%).