bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural variation turnovers and defective genomes: key drivers for the in vitro evolution of the large double-stranded DNA koi herpesvirus (KHV)
Authors: Fuandila Nurul Novelia , Gosselin-Grenet Anne-Sophie , Tilak Marie-Ka , Bergmann Sven M , Escoubas Jean-Michel , Klafack Sandro , Lusiastuti Angela Mariana , Yuhana Munti , Fiston-Lavier Anna-Sophie , Avarre Jean-Christophe , Cherif Emira
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Structural variations (SVs) constitute a significant source of genetic variability in virus genomes. Yet knowledge about SV variability and contribution to the evolutionary process in large double-stranded (ds)DNA viruses is limited. Cyprinid herpesvirus 3 (CyHV-3), also commonly known as koi herpesvirus (KHV), has the largest dsDNA genome within herpesviruses. This virus has become one of the biggest threats to common carp and koi farming, resulting in high morbidity and mortalities of fishes, serious environmental damage, and severe economic losses. A previous study analyzing CyHV-3 virulence evolution during serial passages onto carp cell cultures suggested that CyHV-3 evolves, at leastin vitro, through an assembly of haplotypes that alternatively become dominant or under-represented. The present study investigates the SV diversity and dynamics in CyHV-3 genome during 99 serial passages in cell culture using, for the first time, ultra-deep whole-genome and amplicon-based sequencing. The results indicate that KHV polymorphism mostly involves SVs. These SVs display a wide distribution along the genome and exhibit high turnover dynamics with a clear bias towards inversion and deletion events. Analysis of the pathogenesis-associated ORF150 region in ten intermediate cell passages highlighted mainly deletion, inversion and insertion variations that deeply altered the structure of ORF150. Our findings indicate that SV turnovers and defective genomes represent key drivers in the viral population dynamics and in vitro evolution of KHV. Thus, the present study can contribute to the basic research needed to design safe live-attenuated vaccines, classically obtained by viral attenuation after serial passages in cell culture.
The vaccinia virus chondroitin sulfate binding protein drives host membrane curvature to facilitate fusion
Authors: Pokorny Laura , Burden Jemima J. , Albrecht David , Bamford Rebecca , Leigh Kendra E. , Sridhar Pooja , Knowles Timothy J. , Modis Yorgo , Mercer Jason
Published: March 2022

Virus binding serves to define virus tropism and species specificity1. Virus binding proteins are classically considered as facilitators of cell surface attachment prior to receptor engagement and virus internalization. For efficient entry vaccinia virus (VACV) – the prototypic poxvirus - relies on four binding proteins and an eleven-protein entry fusion complex (EFC)2. We recently demonstrated that VACV binding and fusion proteins are organized into distinct functional domains, with localization of EFC proteins to virion tips directly influencing membrane fusion activity3. However, the relationship between virus binding protein distribution, virion binding orientation and subsequent membrane fusion remain unexplored. Here, we show that virus binding proteins guide side-on virion binding and promote curvature of the host membrane towards EFC-containing virion tips to facilitate virus fusion. Using a cell-derived membrane-bleb model system together with super-resolution and electron microscopy we found that side-bound VACV virions induce membrane invagination in the presence of low pH. Repression or deletion of individual binding proteins revealed that three of four contribute to binding orientation, amongst which the chondroitin sulphate binding protein, D8, is required for host membrane bending. Consistent with low-pH dependent macropinocytic entry of vaccinia virus4,5, loss of D8 prevents virion-associated macropinosome membrane bending, disrupts fusion pore formation and infection kinetics. Our results extend the role of viral binding proteins from mere attachment factors to active participants in successful viral membrane fusion and further illustrate the influence of virus protein architecture on successful infection.
Domain fusion TLR2-4 enhances the autophagy-dependent clearance of Staphylococcus aureus in the genetic engineering goat generated by CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Wang Mengyao , Qi Yu , Cao Yutao , Zhang Xiaosheng , Wang Yongsheng , Liu Qingyou , Zhang Jinglong , Zhou Guangbin , Ai Yue , Wei Shao , Wang Linli , Liu Guoshi , Lian Zhengxing , Han Hongbing
Published: March 2022

Staphylococcus aureus infections pose a potential threat to livestock production and public health. A novel strategy is needed to control S. aureus infection due to its adaptive evolution to antibiotics. Autophagy plays a key role in degrading bacteria for innate immune cells. In order to promote S. aureus clearance via TLR induced autophagy pathway, the domain fusion TLR2-4 with the extracellular domain of TLR2, specific recognizing S. aureus, and transmembrane and intracellular domains of TLR4 is assembled, then the goats expressing TLR2-4 is generated. TLR2-4 substantially augments the removal of S. aureus within macrophages by elevating autophagy level. Phosphorylated JNK/ERK1/2 promote LC3- puncta in TLR2-4 macrophages during S. aureus-induced autophagy via MyD88-mediated the TAK1 signaling cascade. Meantime, the TRIF-dependent TBK1-TFEB-OPTN signaling is involved in TLR2-4-triggered autophagy after S. aureus challenge. Moreover, the transcript of ATG5 and ATG12 is significantly increased via cAMP-PKA-NF-κB signaling, which facilitates S. aureus-induced autophagy in TLR2-4 macrophages. Overall, the novel receptor TLR2-4 enhances the autophagy-dependent clearance of S. aureus in macrophages via TAK1/TBK1-JNK/ERK, TBK1-TFEB-OPTN and cAMP-PKA-NF-κB-ATGs signaling pathways, which provide an alternative approach to resistant against S. aureus infection.
Evolutionary safety of death by mutagenesis
Authors: Lobinska Gabriela , Pilpel Yitzhak , Nowak Martin A
Published: March 2022

Nucleoside analogs are a major class of antiviral drugs. Some act by increasing the viral mutation rate causing “death by mutagenesis” of the virus. Their mutagenic capacity, however, may lead to an evolutionary safety concern. We define evolutionary safety as a probabilistic assurance that the treatment will not generate an increased number of epidemiologically concerning mutated virus progeny. We develop a mathematical framework to estimate the total mutant load produced with and without mutagenic treatment. We predict rates of appearance of virus mutants as a function of the timing of treatment and the immune competence of patients, employing various assumptions about the vulnerability of the viral genome and its potential to generate undesired phenotypes. We focus on the case study of Molnupiravir, which is an FDA-approved treatment against COVID-19. We estimate that Molnupiravir is narrowly evolutionarily safe, subject to the current estimate of parameters. Evolutionary safety can be improved by restricting treatment to individuals with a low clearance rate and by designing treatments that lead to a greater increase in mutation rate. We report a simple rule to determine the fold-increase in mutation rate required to obtain evolutionary safety which is also applicable to other pathogen-treatment combinations.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 7,7-dimethyl-2-phenyl-3,3a,4,6,7,8,9,9a-octahydro-1H-benzo[f]isoindole-1,5(2H)-dione
Authors: Cheng Dong , Gao Xinlei , Huang Jiating , Meng Xiang-Zhen
Published: March 2022

The title compound, C20H23NO2, was obtained via the reaction of N-allyl-N-phenylacrylamide with 3-iodocyclohex-2-en-1-one using PdCl2(PPh3)2 as a catalyst. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c. The fused-ring system is not planar and the five- and six-membered rings are trans-fused. The molecular geometry is partially stabilized by an intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond, forming an S(6) ring motif. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...O and C—H...π interactions into a three-dimensional network. To further analyse the intermolecular interactions, a Hirshfeld surface analysis was performed. The results indicate that the most important contributions to the overall surface are from H...H (65.5%), O...H/H...O (17.5%) and C...H/H...C (14.3%) interactions.
A holistic assessment of a stiffened panel production using a novel thermoplastic material and implementing the induction welding process
Authors: Katsiropoulos Christos , Pantelakis Spyros , Felline Francesca , Buccoliero Giuseppe , Pappada Silvio
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the feasibility to produce a novel aircraft full stiffened panel using entirely a new hybrid thermoplastic composite material allowing for appreciably lower processing temperatures as compared to conventional structural thermoplastic composites.

Design/methodology/approach

For stiffening the fuselage skin panel, the out of autoclave welding of four composite stringers was obtained using a modified induction welding (IW) process. The quality of the welds was investigated using micro-tomography and the mechanical strength of the lap joints was assessed by means of single-lap shear strength (SLSS) tests. Moreover, a holistic design index was implemented as a decision support tool for selecting the optimal set of IW process parameters. Based on the index used, the quality as well as the entire life cycle cost and environmental impact are accounted for.

Findings

Low porosity values as well as no deconsolidation were observed at the investigated application, and the average measured SLSS, even found lower, lies within the range of the respective values encountered in other similar high-performance applications. It is exhibited that after the optimization, the IW process offers significant potential to replace the autoclave process in welding applications. Thus, it paves the way for reduced cost and increased sustainability, while still meeting the predefined quality constraints.

Originality/value

Although several studies on the IW application have been conducted, limited results exist by using novel thermoplastic materials for aircraft structural applications.
Relevance of blockchain technology and the management of libraries and archives in the 4IR
Authors: Tella Adeyinka , Amuda Halimah Odunayo , Ajani Yusuf Ayodeji
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the awareness and perception of the relevance of blockchain technology in the management of libraries and archives in the fourth industrial revolution in a developing country, Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Ten system librarians selected from five different libraries and ten archivists selected from five different archives in the Southwest geopolitical zone of Nigeria represent the sample for the study. The study adopted a purely qualitative approach where data was collected through an open-ended questionnaire mailed to the participants to guide against physical contact and maintained social distancing to observe COVID-19 protocol.

Findings

The results reveal that both the librarians and archivists are aware of blockchain technology, its adoption and use in libraries and archives. There is a positive perception about blockchain technology believing that it can assist libraries and archives in storing information in a distributed settings through gathering, preserving and sharing authoritative information, and supports archivists in creating a unique verifiable record that can be accessed by anyone in archives. Implementation, maintenance cost and difficulty in sustainability are identified as the challenges of blockchain adoption.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to one geopolitical zone of Nigeria which necessitates the need for further research on the similar subject matter in other geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

Practical implications

The findings of the study have identified the need for librarians and archivists to increase their awareness and develop a positive perception toward blockchain technologies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to research the relevance of blockchain technology in Nigerian libraries and archives. This paper reported the benefits libraries and archives could derive from the adoption of blockchain, and how such can improve effective services delivery to the satisfaction of the users of archives and libraries.
Corporate risk disclosure and key audit matters: the egocentric theory
Authors: Elmarzouky Mahmoud , Hussainey Khaled , Abdelfattah Tarek , Karim Atm Enayet
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to provide unique interdisciplinary research evidence between the risk information disclosed by auditors and the risk information disclosed by corporate managers. In particular, it investigates the association between the level of risk information disclosed by auditors (key audit matters [KAMs]) and the level of corporate narrative risk disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consists of the UK FTSE all-share non-financial firms across six financial years. The authors use a computer-aided textual analysis, and the authors use a bag of words to score the sample annual reports.

Findings

The results suggest that KAMs and corporate narrative risk disclosure levels vary across the industries. The authors found a significant positive association between the risk information disclosed by auditors and the risk information disclosed by corporate managers. Also, the authors found that FTSE 100 firms exhibit higher significance between the ongoing concern and the level of narrative risk disclosure.

Practical implications

The study approach helps assess the level of management risk reporting behaviour due to the new auditor risk reporting standards. This helps to emphasise how auditors and companies engage and communicate risk-related information to stakeholders. Standard setters should suggest a more detailed reporting framework to protect the shareholders. The unique findings are incredibly beneficial to the regulators, standard setters, investors, creditors, suppliers, customers, decision makers and academics.

Originality/value

This paper provides a shred of extraordinary evidence of the impact of auditor risk reporting and management risk reporting. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has yet investigated the corporate narrative disclosure after the new audit standards ISA 700 and ISA 701.
How do beer prices vary across different pubs? An empirical study
Authors: Shakina Ekaterina , Cabras Ignazio
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of pubs and breweries’ attributes on beer prices by exploring and examining the variation of beer prices across pubs in York, UK.

Design/methodology/approach

Data gathered from five surveys of pubs conducted between 2012 and 2020 are used to test six research hypotheses analysing how factors such as location, type of ownership and management of pubs, beers’ characteristics and breweries’ attributes affect beer prices in the on-licence market.

Findings

Beer packaging, type of brewery, pubs’ ownership and management all have a significant impact on beer prices, with beer on average cheaper in premises owned by pub companies and breweries compared to independently owned pubs.

Research limitations/implications

Findings can have implications in the first instance, on current fiscal policies affecting beer prices and, on a broader scale, regulating alcohol consumption.

Practical implications

Understanding beer price mechanisms in the pub sector offers valuable insights to practitioners and policymakers about designing and delivering policies and actions aimed at halting the decline of pubs in the UK.

Social implications

Findings provide original information relevant for developing initiatives aimed at preventing excessive alcohol consumption in private premises, an issue commonly associated with problems such as alcohol-related diseases, loneliness and antisocial behaviour.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first, providing an empirical analysis of beer price mechanisms within the pub sector at such a granular level; findings have important implications for pubs and on-licence businesses and for local communities and economies.
Familiarity, involvement, satisfaction and behavioral intentions: the case of an African-American cultural festival
Authors: Rivera Manuel Antonio , Shapoval Valeriya , Semrad Kelly , Medeiros Marcos
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The study investigates how cultural festival attendees’ familiarity and involvement may influence their overall satisfaction and future behavioral intentions towards the festival.

Design/methodology/approach

A path analysis is used to test the proposed model. The Sobel test is performed to determine the mediating role of attendee satisfaction on future behavioral intentions.

Findings

Attendee familiarity positively and directly impacts attendee involvement. Attendee satisfaction mediates the relationship between involvement and intention to return to the festival. The findings did not demonstrate a relationship between attendee involvement and intention to recommend the cultural festival. Attendees’ intention to return to the festival positively and directly impacts intention to recommend the festival.

Practical implications

For repeat cultural festival attendees, satisfaction is influenced by festival familiarity and involvement. As attendees become more satisfied with their festival involvement, their decision to return to the festival increases. The mediation effect of satisfaction indicates that this should be a priority, as it fully mediates the relationships. However, this is not the case as it relates to the intentions to recommend the festival.

Originality/value

The study contributes to literature on the impact of familiarity and involvement on repeat attendee satisfaction levels and how these relationships influence attendees’ decisions to return or recommend the festival. It is one of the first studies that investigates actual behavior of festival attendees, specifically in the context of an African-American cultural festival.
How and when does renewable energy affect investors willing to invest?
Authors: Ali Rizwan , Hussain Rai Imtiaz , Hussain Dr Shahbaz
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The present research study aims to explore the impact of renewable energy (RE) on investors willing to invest. This current study also investigates the mediation role of perceived benefit (PB) and living creature’s development (LCD) among RE and investors willing to invest.

Design/methodology/approach

Pakistani per capita income level is low; usually, the population lives hand to mouth. Only 10% to 15% of the population has been saving and is willing to invest in different sectors. To meet the aim of this study, data were collected from 300 individuals with a 40% response rate investors, equity fund managers and Pakistani stock exchanges using a nonprobability convenient sampling approach. The partial least square structural equation modeling technique and Smart partial least squares 3.0 were used to determine the primary and medicating effects of the variables.

Findings

The analysis shows that RE and investor willing to invest strongly linked each other directly and indirectly. PB and LCD significantly partial mediate the connection among RE and investor willing to invest. Hence, the results suggest that RE has more sustainable development goals with using and accessing affordable green and reliable energy.

Originality/value

The present study narrows the research gap by examining the effect of RE on investor willing to invest via PB and LCD. Also, it provides essential information for effective energy policies contributed to the sustainable development goals and gives valuable suggestions for policymaker and government.
Learning to teach through Tong Ke Yi Gou: voices from pre-service language teachers
Authors: Yuan Rui , Liu Shuwen
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The study explores how pre-service teachers engage in Tong Ke Yi Gou (“Same lesson and different design”) as a Chinese version of lesson study in a language teacher education course.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from multiple sources, including semi-structured interviews, field observations, as well as individual reflections constructed by the participants. The different data sources served to triangulate and enrich each other, shedding light on the student teachers’ learning experiences through lesson study.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal the participants’ enhanced motivation and participation through a process-oriented, collaborative design (i.e. joint lesson planning, micro-teaching, collaborative debrief and individual reflections). In addition, the participants engaged in constant comparisons at multiple levels, which collectively refined and expanded their pedagogical knowledge about language teaching. Such rich and collaborative experiences further contributed to their reflections on and for practice as future language teachers. On the other hand, the study also reveals the emotional challenges faced by some participants due to the competitive atmosphere brought by the comparative element embedded in the process of Tong Ke Yi Gou.

Originality/value

This study incorporates the mode of Tong Ke Yi Gou into a pre-service teacher education course in order to examine how it can benefit student teachers’ learning to teach. The findings highlight the power of “comparison” in promoting student teachers’ reflective and analytical thinking at multiple levels with practical implications for current pre-service teacher education programs.
Optimization of radial flexible mechanism in scroll compressor based on oil film lubrication analysis
Authors: Sun Dongfang , Tang Jingchun , Zhang Xiuping , Yuan Xudong , Qian Yue , Ye Fangping , Ye Bin , Jiang Bin
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The leakage problem caused by machining error, assembly error, wearing and thermal deformation has been the main factor hindering the development of scroll compressor. This paper aims to investigate the lubrication characteristics of radial clearance and further optimize the radial clearance, which can reduce the leakage in the tangential direction of the working chamber.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper establishes a model of radial clearance oil film lubrication in scroll compressor. And, the method to solve the Reynolds and energy equations is presented, as well as the dimensionless and discretization by finite element difference method. To verify the established model, performance experiment of scroll compressor for electric vehicle air conditioning system is also carried out.

Findings

Based on the presented model, the temperature field and distribution of the oil film in the radial clearance are analyzed. And the influence of the structural parameter on the radial clearance is further discussed. The optimum radial clearance could be achieved at β = 40°–42°, where the orbiting scroll is in the state of rotary balance. And, the simulation results coincide well with the experimental results.

Originality/value

This work provides an effective model to evaluate the lubrication characteristics of radial clearance in scroll compressor, which can provide guidance for the design of scroll compressor.
Understanding soft power discourse in the National Library of Australia
Authors: Bell Emilia C.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper presents research that sought to understand how the National Library of Australia engages with soft power in its Annual Report 2019–20. Driving the analysis was the research question: How is soft power discourse reproduced and enacted in the National Library of Australia's Annual Report 2019–20? The research recognises the significance of Australia's soft power, cultural diplomacy, and regional relationships to national interest in the context of a library's contributions to these areas.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a qualitative discourse analysis, with constructivist and interpretivist perspectives. A critical discourse analysis was undertaken that applied a discourse-historical approach.

Findings

The findings suggest that the National Library of Australia primarily engages with soft power discourse through the construction and preservation of an Australian national identity. National identity is framed as key to the Library's collection development, with Australian knowledge prioritised.

Originality/value

This study extends on research addressing the roles of galleries, archives, and museums in cultural diplomacy, but rarely examines soft power and libraries explicitly or in a contemporary context. It contributes to broader understandings of libraries in international relations and the role they can play in soft power attraction and cultural diplomacy.
The self-healing ability of durable consumer goods through preventive maintenance behavior
Authors: Tao Na
Published: March 2022

Purpose

In this study, the focus was shifted from repairing durable goods to achieving healthier ecology, making durable goods more secure in turn. This study introduced preventive maintenance behavior to trace the ex-post control of “curling” back to the ex-post control of “self-healing.” This study tries to close the gap between the human repair of machines and their “self-curing.” Finally, the author makes the machines healthier.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper constructed a mathematical model of preventive maintenance behavior during a specific period for durable consumer goods. The author builds a simulation function of the two-stage preventative maintenance behavior relations. The study used simulations to analyze the influencing relationship and differences between three preventive maintenance behavior elements to basic warranty preventive maintenance (BWPM) behavior and extended warranty preventive maintenance (EWPM) behavior.

Findings

Both BWPM behavior and EWPM behavior were affected by the preventive maintenance (PM) behavioral components in different ways. The influence paths of the two warranty periods affected by PM behavior were also different.

Research limitations/implications

This study introduced PM behavior to trace the ex-post control of “curling” back to the ex-post control of “self-healing.” This study adopted the human–machine interaction mode to improve durable goods' self-healing ability during operation and enable a more effective and sustainable development.

Practical implications

This study’s conclusions may help manufacturers guide PM behavior in a way that achieves “self-healing” of the durable goods.

Originality/value

The author opened a “black box” of PM behaviors and analyzed their components. The internal structure relation of PM behavior is built and the closed-loop system of spatial structure is formed.
Perceptual deterrents of the green consumer
Authors: McLelland Melinda A. , Foster Jamye , Pollitte Wesley
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to better understand consumers’ overall perceptions of “being green” in an attempt to address the green attitude–behavior gap.

Design/methodology/approach

This study features a qualitative study that uses a projective technique to tap into consumers’ underlying perceptions of those who purchase green products. A follow-up, quantitative study tests the mediation effects of perceived judgment and self-congruity perceptions on the green attitude–behavior gap.

Findings

The key finding of the first study suggests that consumers tend to “judge” others based on their degree of greenness. The second study confirmed both perceptions of judgment and self-congruity mediate the relationship between green attitudes and behaviors.

Originality/value

This study explores the elusive green attitude–intention gap with both a qualitative and quantitative approach. Perceived consumer judgment emerges as a new variable to consider in better understanding green consumer behaviors.
Forecasting foreign exchange rates as group experiment: actuality bias and fact-convergence effect within wisdom of crowds
Authors: Horaguchi Haruo H.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This article examines the accuracy and bias inherent in the wisdom of crowd effect. The purpose is to clarify what kind of bias crowds have when they make predictions. In the theoretical inquiry, the effect of the accumulated absolute deviation was simulated. In the empirical study, the observed biases were examined using data from forecasting foreign exchange rates.

Design/methodology/approach

In the theoretical inquiry, the effect of the accumulated absolute deviation was simulated based on mathematical propositions. In the empirical study, the data from 2004 to 2011 were provided by Nikkei, which holds the “Nikkei Yen Derby” competition. In total, 3,657 groups forecasted the foreign exchange rate, and the first prediction was done in early May to forecast the rate at the end of May. The second round took place in June in a similar manner.

Findings

The average absolute deviation in May was smaller than that in June. The first round of prediction was more accurate than the second round one. Predictors were affected by the observable real exchange rate, such that they modified their forecasts by referring to the actual data in early June. An actuality bias existed when the participants lost their diverse prospects. Since the standard deviations of the June forecasts were smaller than those of May, the fact-convergence effect was supported.

Originality/value

This article reports novel findings that affect the wisdom of crowd effect—referred to as actuality bias and fact-convergence effect. The former refers to a forecasting bias toward the observable rate near the forecasting date. The latter implies that predictors, as a whole, indicate smaller forecast deviations by observing the realized foreign exchange rate.
From physician’s authority to patient expertise: the effects of e-health technology use on patient’s behavior and physician-patient relationship
Authors: Zoghlami Meryem , Ben Rached Kaouther Saied
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the health technology use in health information seeking, communication and personal health information management, as well as in the effects they may have on his relationship with the physician and on the consumption of medical resources.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted. The questionnaires were distributed via online health discussion forums using Google's survey software with a summary presentation of the study’s objective. The final selection of 362 individuals was made using social media, direct email and collaboration with community groups. The empirical validation of the causal model was conducted using the partial least square approach.

Findings

The results show that the use of e-health strengthens the quality of the patient–physician relationship and patient empowerment while increasing the consumption of medical resources.

Originality/value

The results of this research indicate that the internet has transformed the relationship of patients to health, to their doctors and to the health-care system. In this new context, a reconsideration of the status of the patient must be considered by health service providers.
Idea paper: How are ecosystem services related to biodiversity and ecological integrity in each site under climate change?
Authors: Ohsawa Takafumi
Published: March 2022

Conventional nature conservation has attempted to protect biodiversity, ecological integrity (i.e., composition and biomass/abundance of native species), and ecosystem services in parallel, assuming generally positive relationships among them. However, many native species are potentially weakened by and maladapted to a new, warmer climate. Such native species may not be able to offer ecosystem services at previous levels. If the relationship between ecosystem services and native species is no longer positive due to climate change, pursuing ecological integrity could be ineffective for maximizing ecosystem services. Hence, there is room to investigate future relationships among biodiversity, ecological integrity, and ecosystem services. This investigation can be done by describing the changes in ecosystem services as a function of biodiversity and ecological integrity. Herein, biodiversity and ecological integrity can be expressed by phylogenetic diversity and species intactness indices based on abundance, respectively. According to my hypothetical figure, the metrics of biodiversity and ecological integrity are potentially not positively but rather negatively related to ecosystem services. The hypothetical figure can be examined and improved using three different approaches: computer simulations (e.g., the LANDIS‐II forest simulation model), collection of actual data (e.g., measuring ecosystem services of some sites with psychrophilic and thermophilic species), and questionnaire surveys about cultural services (e.g., using digitally manipulated photographs and generative adversarial networks). Thus, we can successfully enable practitioners to understand new relationships, which will be relevant to ecosystem management under changing climates.
Immigration policy, immigrant detention, and the U.S. jail system
Authors: Amuedo‐Dorantes Catalina , Lopez Mary J.
Published: March 2022

Research Summary

The increase in immigration enforcement during the past two decades has led to a larger number of immigrants being detained in the U.S. criminal justice system. Using data from the 2006–2018 Annual Survey of Jails, we examine the impact of immigrants being held for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on the conditions in U.S. jails. We find that increases in the number of detainees held for ICE are related to higher noncitizen jailed populations that are not offset by reductions in their citizen counterparts, likely contributing to worse confinement conditions. This is reflected in the higher levels of overcrowding and understaffing, as well as in the longer stays in jail and more physical assaults associated with a larger number of ICE detainees. These findings prove robust to using data on two local interior immigration enforcement programs responsible for the growing number of immigrant detainees in local jails—287(g) agreements and Secure Communities—as instruments to address the endogeneity of the number of ICE detainees with respect to jail conditions. The results are driven by slightly over half of U.S. counties located either along the United States–Mexico border or in states with a large or fast‐growing immigrant population.

Policy Implications

As immigrant detention becomes more entrenched in the U.S. criminal justice system, understanding the connection between intensified immigration enforcement, immigrant detention, and the conditions of U.S. jails is well warranted. Our findings suggest that for jails already operating at or above capacity, immigrant detention may pose significant concerns for the safety and well‐being of all incarcerated individuals. Furthermore, our results have implications for the criminalization of unauthorized entry into the United States. Making immigration violations a criminal offense has resulted in the development of an inhumane immigration detention system motivated by profit.
Seasonal changes in the parasite prevalence of a small Malagasy lemur species (Lepilemur edwardsi)
Authors: BETHGE Janina , RAZAFIMAMPIANDRA Jean Claude , WULFF Arne , DAUSMANN Kathrin H.
Published: March 2022

Parasitic infections can impact the fitness of individuals and can have influence on animals’ population dynamics. An individuals’ parasite prevalence often changes depending on external or seasonal changes, for example, rainfall and ambient temperatures, but also on internal changes, for example, changes in body condition. In this study we aimed to identify the environmental factors that may influence the intestinal parasite and ectoparasite prevalence of the folivorous Malagasy primate species, Lepilemur edwardsi, living in a seasonal dry deciduous forest. Species living in this habitat have to adapt to seasonal changes of ambient temperature, with almost no precipitation during the dry season and hence strong fluctuations of resource availability throughout the year. We sampled the feces and ectoparasites of L. edwardsi throughout the year. Intestinal parasite prevalence increased from the wet to the dry season and was highest in the late dry season, which might be due to the accompanying decrease in diet quality. Conversely, ectoparasite prevalence decreased in the dry season, presumably due to the prevailing unfavorable environmental conditions for the development of ectoparasites (i.e., mites and ticks). Paired with the higher resting metabolism and stress level of L. edwardsi during the late dry season, it seems that this species may struggle when dry seasons intensify in its habitat.
AAV‐mediated expression of secreted and transmembrane αKlotho isoforms rescues relevant aging hallmarks in senescent SAMP8 mice
Authors: Roig‐Soriano J. , Griñán‐Ferré C. , Espinosa‐Parrilla J. F. , Abraham C. R. , Bosch A. , Pallàs M. , Chillón Miguel
Published: March 2022

Senescence represents a stage in life associated with elevated incidence of morbidity and increased risk of mortality due to the accumulation of molecular alterations and tissue dysfunction, promoting a decrease in the organism's protective systems. Thus, aging presents molecular and biological hallmarks, which include chronic inflammation, epigenetic alterations, neuronal dysfunction, and worsening of physical status. In this context, we explored the AAV9‐mediated expression of the two main isoforms of the aging‐protective factor Klotho (KL) as a strategy to prevent these general age‐related features using the senescence‐accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model. Both secreted and transmembrane KL isoforms improved cognitive performance, physical state parameters, and different molecular variables associated with aging. Epigenetic landscape was recovered for the analyzed global markers DNA methylation (5‐mC), hydroxymethylation (5‐hmC), and restoration occurred in the acetylation levels of H3 and H4. Gene expression of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mediators in central nervous system such as TNF‐α and IL‐10, respectively, had improved levels, which were comparable to the senescence‐accelerated‐mouse resistant 1 (SAMR1) healthy control. Additionally, this improvement in neuroinflammation was supported by changes in the histological markers Iba1, GFAP, and SA β‐gal. Furthermore, bone tissue structural variables, especially altered during senescence, recovered in SAMP8 mice to SAMR1 control values after treatment with both KL isoforms. This work presents evidence of the beneficial pleiotropic role of Klotho as an anti‐aging therapy as well as new specific functions of the KL isoforms for the epigenetic regulation and aged bone structure alteration in an aging mouse model.
Association of quarterly prevalence of e‐cigarette use with ever regular smoking among young adults in England: a time–series analysis between 2007 and 2018
Authors: Beard Emma , Brown Jamie , Shahab Lion
Published: March 2022

Aims

To assess how changes in the prevalence of e‐cigarette use among young adults have been associated with changes in the uptake of smoking in England between 2007 and 2018.

Design

Time–series analysis of population trends with autoregressive integrated moving average with exogeneous input (ARIMAX models).

Setting

England.

Participants

Data were aggregated quarterly on young adults aged 16–24 years (n = 37 105) taking part in the Smoking Toolkit Study.

Measures

In the primary analysis, prevalence of e‐cigarette use was used to predict prevalence of ever regular smoking among those aged 16–24. Sensitivity analyses stratified the sample into those aged 16–17 and 18–24. Bayes’ factors and robustness regions were calculated for non‐significant findings [effect size beta coefficient (B) = 3.1].

Findings

There was evidence for no association between the prevalence of e‐cigarette use and ever regular smoking among those aged 16–24 [B = –0.015, 95% confidence interval (CI) = –0.046 to 0.016; P = 0.341; Bayes factor (BF) = 0.002]. Evidence for no association was also found in the stratified analysis among those aged 16–17 (B = 0.070, 95% CI –0.014 to 0.155, P = 0.102; BF = 0.015) and 18–24 (B = –0.021, 95% CI –0.053 to 0.011; P = 0.205; BF = 0.003). These findings were able to rule out percentage point increases or decreases in ever regular smoking prevalence greater than 0.31% or less than −0.03% for 16–17‐year‐olds and 0.01 or −0.08% for 18–24‐year‐olds for every 1%‐point increase in e‐cigarette prevalence.

Conclusion

Prevalence of e‐cigarette use among the youth population in England does not appear to be associated with substantial increases or decreases in the prevalence of smoking uptake. Small associations cannot be ruled out.
COVID‐19 restrictions increased perceptions of social isolation for older people discharged home after rehabilitation: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Hogan Georgia , Taylor Nicholas F. , Robins Leslie , Callisaya Michele L. , Snowdon Megan , Moran Chris , Snowdon David A.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To explore older persons’ perceptions of the impact of COVID‐19 restrictions on participating in community activities after discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.

Methods

Mixed‐methods study design. Participants were older adults who were discharged home following inpatient rehabilitation. Interviews were conducted with 70 participants, with a variety of diagnoses, 8 weeks after discharge from inpatient rehabilitation. Frequency of participation in domestic, leisure/work and outdoor activities was measured using the Frenchay Activities Index (FAI). Qualitative analysis was completed using qualitative content analysis and triangulated with FAI scores.

Results

In all, 70 older adults (mean age: 73.0 years, SD: 9.9; 59% female) participated in the study. The overarching theme was that participants felt socially isolated following discharge from rehabilitation, with COVID‐19 restrictions increasing perceptions of social isolation and complicating their return to participating in community activities. The four categories informing the overarching theme were as follows: physical health was the primary limitation to participation in community activities; COVID‐19 restrictions limited participation in social activities and centre‐based physical rehabilitation; low uptake of videoconferencing to facilitate socialisation and rehabilitation; and reduced incidental physical activity. Mean FAI score was 21.2 (SD 7.8), indicating that participants were moderately active. Participants most commonly performed domestic activities (mean: 10.0, SD: 4.1), followed by outdoor activities (mean: 6.6, SD: 3.5) and leisure/work activities (mean: 4.5, SD: 2.5).

Conclusions

COVID‐19 restrictions exacerbated perceptions of social isolation and the limitations already imposed by poor physical health after discharge from rehabilitation. The findings highlight the need for rehabilitation that addresses the psychological and social dimensions of community reintegration.
ENaC activation by proteases
Authors: Anand Deepika , Hummler Edith , Rickman Olivia J.
Published: March 2022

Proteases are fundamental for a plethora of biological processes, including signalling and tissue remodelling, and dysregulated proteolytic activity can result in pathogenesis. In this review, we focus on a subclass of membrane‐bound and soluble proteases that are defined as channel‐activating proteases (CAPs), since they induce Na+ ion transport through an autocrine mechanism when co‐expressed with the highly amiloride‐sensitive epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) in Xenopus oocytes. These experiments first identified CAP1 (channel‐activating protease 1, prostasin) followed by CAP2 (channel‐activating protease 2, TMPRSS4) and CAP3 (channel‐activating protease 3, matriptase) as in vitro mediators of ENaC current. Since then, more serine‐, cysteine‐ and metalloproteases were confirmed as in vitro CAPs that potentially cleave and regulate ENaC, and thus this nomenclature was not further followed, but is accepted as functional term or alias. The precise mechanism of ENaC modulation by proteases has not been fully elucidated. Studies in organ‐specific protease knockout models revealed evidence for their role in increasing ENaC activity, although the proteases responsible for ENaC activation are yet to be identified. We summarize recent findings in animal models of these CAPs with respect to their implication in ENaC activation. We discuss the consequences of dysregulated CAPs underlying epithelial phenotypes in pathophysiological conditions, and the role of selected protease inhibitors. We believe that these proteases may present interesting therapeutic targets for diseases with aberrant sodium homoeostasis.
Review article: role of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis, obesity and diabetes—what hepatologists need to know
Authors: Barritt A. Sidney , Marshman Emma , Noureddin Mazen
Published: March 2022

Background

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is characterised by hepatic lipid accumulation, cell injury, inflammation and fibrosis. Insulin resistance, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, is a key pathogenic driver of NASH. Other than difficult‐to‐maintain lifestyle changes, there are no approved treatments for NASH. Due to their effects on multiple pathophysiological processes, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) have been tested in disorders related to insulin resistance and metabolic defects.

Aims

To summarise studies of GLP‐1RAs relevant to the treatment of NASH.

Methods

PubMed searches were performed and results were compiled.

Results

Large trials with GLP‐1RAs in T2D demonstrate highly effective glucose lowering, with body weight loss, and in some cases, reduced cardiovascular events and improved liver transaminases. The GLP‐1RAs, liraglutide and semaglutide, were associated with clinically relevant, sustained body weight reduction in individuals with overweight or obesity and without T2D. In a phase II trial in NASH, liraglutide reduced metabolic dysfunction, insulin resistance and lipotoxicity in key organs associated with NASH pathogenesis. Furthermore, liraglutide and semaglutide led to histological resolution of NASH in ~40% to 60% of patients, although a statistically significant effect on fibrosis has not been confirmed. Regarding safety, GLP‐1RAs are associated with gastrointestinal and gallbladder‐related adverse events, with the latter perhaps related to weight loss. Meta‐analyses do not indicate increased risk of acute pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer or other malignancies with GLP‐1RAs.

Conclusions

These studies support the use of GLP‐1RAs for the improvement of underlying metabolic dysfunction observed in NASH and suggest further long‐term phase III trials are warranted.