bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calpain DEK1 acts as a developmental switch gatekeeping cell fate transitions
Authors: Demko Viktor , Belova Tatiana , Messerer Maxim , Hvidsten Torgeir R. , Perroud Pierre-François , Ako Ako Eugene , Johansen Wenche , Mayer Klaus F.X. , Olsen Odd-Arne , Lang Daniel
Published: August 2021

Calpains are cysteine proteases that control cell fate transitions. Although calpains are viewed as modulatory proteases displaying severe, pleiotropic phenotypes in eukaryotes, human calpain targets are also directed to the N-end rule degradatory pathway. Several of these destabilized targets are transcription factors, hinting at a gene regulatory role. Here, we analyze the gene regulatory networks of Physcomitrium patens and characterize the regulons that are deregulated in DEK1 calpain mutants. Predicted cleavage patterns of regulatory hierarchies in the five DEK1-controlled subnetworks are consistent with the gene’s pleiotropy and the regulatory role in cell fate transitions targeting a broad spectrum of functions. Network structure suggests DEK1-gated sequential transition between cell fates in 2D to 3D development. We anticipate that both our method combining phenotyping, transcriptomics and data science to dissect phenotypic traits and our model explaining the calpain’s role as a switch gatekeeping cell fate transitions will inform biology beyond plant development.
Synthesis and characterization of a range of antimony(I/III) N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinate complexes
Authors: Al-Dabbagh Areej , Guo Zhifang , Junk Peter , Wang Jun
Published: August 2021

Formamidinatoantimony(I/III) complexes have been successfully synthesized as monomers or dimers in the solid state featuring a variety of coordination geometries and have also been comprehensively characterized. The antimony(I) formamidinate complex bis[μ-N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinato]diantimony(I)(2 Sb—Sb) tetrahydrofuran heptasolvate, [Sb2(C25H35N2)2]·7C4H8O or [Sb2(DippForm)2]·7THF, (1), was obtained by a metathesis reaction between sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide [NaN(SiMe3)2] and N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidine (DippFormH), followed by SbCl3. A range of trivalent haloformamidinatoantimony(III) complexes, namely, bis[N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinato]chloridoantimony(III), [Sb(C25H35N2)2Cl] or [Sb(DippForm)2Cl], (2), bis[N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinato]bromidoantimony(III), [SbBr(C25H35N2)2] or [SbBr(DippForm)2], (3), bis[N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinato]iodidoantimony(III), [Sb(C25H35N2)2I] or [Sb(DippForm)2I], (4), [N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinato]dibromidoantimony(III), [SbBr2(C25H35N2)] or [SbBr2(DippForm)], (5), and [N,N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)formamidinato]diiodidoantimony(III), [Sb(C25H35N2)I2] or [Sb(DippForm)I2], (6), were also synthesized by adding DippFormH and MN(SiMe3)2 (M = Li or Na) to the corresponding antimony halides SbX
3 (X = Cl, Br or I) in differing ratios. The complexes were all stable to rearrangement.
Square network based upon the molecular salt of the tetraprotonated photoproduct rtct-tetrakis(pyridin-4-yl)cyclobutane and the sulfate anion
Authors: Santana Carlos L. , Reinheimer Eric W. , Groeneman Ryan H.
Published: August 2021

The formation and crystal structure of a hydrated molecular salt that results in a square network is reported. The crystalline solid is based upon the tetraprotonated photoproduct rtct-tetrakis(pyridin-4-yl)cyclobutane (4H-

rtct

-TPCB)4+ along with two sulfate anions (SO4
2−) and eight waters of hydration, namely, 4,4′,4′′,4′′′-(cyclobutane-1,2,3,4-tetrayl)tetrapyridinium bis(sulfate) octahydrate, C24H24N4
4+·2SO4
2−·8H2O. The fully protonated photoproduct acts as a four-connecting node within the square network by engaging in four charge-assisted N+—H...O hydrogen bonds to the sulfate anion. The observed hydrogen-bonding pattern in this square network is akin to T-silica, which is a metastable form of SiO2. The included water molecules and sulfate anions engage in numerous O—H...O hydrogen bonds to form various hydrogen-bonded ring structures.
Unbundling employer branding, job satisfaction, organizational identification and employee retention: a sequential mediation analysis
Authors: Bharadwaj Shubhangi , Khan Nawab Ali , Yameen Mohammad
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to extend employer branding research by investigating the role of job satisfaction and organizational identification as predictors of employee retention, and their mediating role between employer branding and employee retention.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey is utilized to gather data from 352 employees working in top Indian IT organizations. Hypotheses were tested and analyzed utilizing SPSS PROCESS Macro.

Findings

The results reveal that employer branding is positively related to job satisfaction, organizational identification and employee retention. The analysis provides support for the mediating effects on employee retention of employer branding through job satisfaction and organizational identification. In addition, results also provide support for the serial mediation model, where employer branding was found to influence employee retention via job satisfaction and organizational identification in a sequential manner. The findings connote that the enhanced positive identity of satisfied employees suppresses the intention to leave among IT professionals.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that an employer branding strategy with a unique set of attributes can provide a competitive advantage to employers in terms of high retention levels. The findings also highlight the fact that the importance of employer branding strategy should not be merely confined to the issue of retention as it can also play a vital role in enhancing job satisfaction and employees' identification level. Hence, managers are required to devise an employer branding strategy with a long-term intent that focuses on gaining a competitive advantage and aiming to improve relationships with employees.

Originality/value

The researchers have enriched social identity and social exchange theory as a theoretical paradigm, examining antecedents of employee retention. The study has extended the foregoing direct or simple mediation models by integrating social identity theory and job satisfaction in a sequential mediation model.
The role of plastic packaging in transforming food retailing
Authors: Parsons Rorie
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Whilst plastic packaging has recently been critiqued for its detrimental effects on the environment, it is largely overlooked in histories of food retailing. This paper presents a historical perspective on plastic packaging, highlighting its role in transforming UK food retailing throughout the middle to late twentieth century.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on an analysis of the Marks & Spencer Company Archive, supplemented by company histories and biographical sources. Three examples were purposively selected based on their technologically innovative role in maintaining and enhancing Marks & Spencer's core values.

Findings

The analysis highlights plastic packaging's significance in enabling Marks & Spencer's product development process whilst maintaining and enhancing the company's core values of standards, quality, safety, freshness, hygiene and convenience. The examples demonstrate the role of plastics in technological innovation, achieving key commercial objectives in product development and contributing to the transformation of food retailing.

Research limitations/implications

The research focuses on three specific examples of packaging innovation, drawing out their wider implications for socio-technical change in UK food retailing.

Originality/value

This historical research suggests that greater attention should be paid to plastic packaging including its material properties and the services it provides, moving beyond a blanket condemnation by acknowledging its multiple affordances in the food sector. These historical insights are instructive when thinking about the future of retailing and shopping in the context of the need for better environmental outcomes.
Design and analysis of buffer and bufferless routing based NoC for high throughput and low latency communication on FPGA
Authors: S.B. Sujata , M. Sandi Anuradha
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The small area network for data communication within routers is suffering from storage of packet, throughput, latency and power consumption. There are a lot of solutions to increase speed of commutation and optimization of power consumption; one among them is Network-on-chip (NoC). In the literature, there are several NoCs which can reconfigurable dynamically and can easily test and validate the results on FPGA. But still, NoCs have limitations which are regarding chip area, reconfigurable time and throughput.

Design/methodology/approach

To address these limitations, this research proposes the dynamically buffered and bufferless reconfigurable NoC (DB2R NoC) using X-Y algorithm for routing, Torus for switching and Flexible Direction Order (FDOR) for direction finding between source and destination nodes. Thus, the 3 × 3 and 4 × 4 DB2R NoCs are made free from deadlock, low power and latency and high throughput. To prove the applicability and performance analysis of DB2R NoC for 3 × 3 and 4 × 4 routers on FPGA, the 22 bits for buffered and 19 bit for bufferless designs have been successfully synthesized using Verilog HDL and implemented on Artix-7 FPGA development bond. The virtual input/output chips cope pro tool has been incorporated in the design to verify and debug the complete design on Artix-7 FPGA.

Findings

In the obtained result, it has been found that 35% improvement in throughput, 23% improvement in latency and 47% optimization in area has been made. The complete design has been tested for 28 packets of injection rate 0.01; the packets have been generated by using NLFSR.

Originality/value

In the obtained result, it has been found that 35% improvement in throughput, 23% improvement in latency and 47% optimization in area has been made. The complete design has been tested for 28 packets of injection rate 0.01; the packets have been generated by using NLFSR.
Blended learning: the amount of requisite professional competencies in faculty members of Al Ain University from viewpoint of students
Authors: Yousef Jarrah Hani , Alhourani Mohammad Issa , Al-Srehan Hussein Salem
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the present research is to examine the role and influence of modern method of blended learning in the formation and development of professional competencies on the example of the faculty members of Al Ain University from the viewpoint of its students and determine the relevance of the educational method of blended learning in modern society and science according to world situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consisted of 980 male and female students in the second semester of 2019–2020. The comparative analysis of the influence of blended learning on the knowledge level and improvement of professional competencies among students of two faculties was taken into account.

Findings

The results of the survey according to chosen criteria showed that the professional competencies required for the faculty members were moderate. According to the results of the survey, most of respondents (75%) are sure that the level of blended learning at their educational institution is high. 35% of respondents think that blended learning helps to develop technological competency as well as self-development (25%), motivation (18%), critical thinking (12%), self-discipline and time management (10%).

Originality/value

The relevance of problematic issue of blended learning is determined by the new conditions of educational process connected with pandemic. The prospects for further research can be based on the results of this study especially the relevance is connected with the study of the experience of using modern method of blended learning in different foreign countries on the basis of surveys and developed programs.
The big picture on supply chain integration – insights from a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Kotzab Herbert , Bäumler Ilja , Gerken Paul
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Integration is a key element of supply chain management (SCM) and a lot of research has been executed within the field of supply chain integration (SCI). The purpose of this paper is to particularly identify the intellectual research front and foundation of SCI and how they developed over time.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examined more than 1,700 peer-reviewed academic papers that were published between 1995 and 2019 in nearly 40 relevant peer-reviewed academic journals (all indexed in Web of Science). The authors analysed the structure of more than 55,000 individual references with the R-package bibliometrix and used VOSviewer for visualization.

Findings

The SCI research front is characterized by papers that show the effects of SCI on the firm performance, the consequences of SCI on SCM in general and present the enablers of SCI. The research front is embedded within the resource-based, transaction cost and contingency theory. The intellectual foundation refers to conceptual modelling, definitional clarification and integration dimensions. The research identifies Frohlich and Westbrook’s (2001) paper as the central reference for this research area. The dynamic evolution of the intellectual foundation of SCI changed from theorising in Phase 1 (1995–2006) towards empirical testing in Phase 2 (2007–2019).

Research limitations/implications

The results refer to the SCI discussion within a preselected number of peer-reviewed academic journals and to the data quality as provided by the Web of Science.

Originality/value

The study explored the research front and intellectual foundation of SCI. It reveals the most important papers and journals of this area by using bibliometric tools such as bibliometrix, biblioshiny and VOSviewer. The paper shows trends in research themes, theories and methodological developments.
Protective effects of FK 506 against haemorrhagic shock‐induced microvascular hyperpermeability
Authors: Tharakan Binu , Hunter Felicia A. , Childs Ed W.
Published: August 2021

Microvascular hyperpermeability, the excessive leakage of fluid and proteins from the intravascular space to the interstitium, is a devastating clinical concern in haemorrhagic shock (HS), sepsis, burn and so forth. Previous studies have shown that HS‐induced microvascular hyperpermeability is associated with activation of the mitochondria‐mediated ‘intrinsic’ apoptotic signalling cascade and caspase‐3 mediated disruption of the endothelial cell barrier. In this study, our objective was to test if FK506, an immunomodulator that is also known to protect mitochondria, would protect barrier functions and decrease vascular hyperpermeability following HS by acting on this pathway. FK506 (25 µM) was given 10 minutes before the shock period in a rat model of HS. The HS model was a non‐traumatic/fixed pressure model of hypovolemic shock developed by withdrawing blood to reduce the mean arterial pressure to 40 mm Hg for 60 minutes. The mesenteric post‐capillary venules were monitored for changes in permeability using intravital microscopic imaging. The changes in mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP) were determined using the cationic dye 5,5′,6,6′ tetrachoro‐1,1′,3,3′ tetraethyl benzimidazolyl carbocyanine iodide (JC‐1), that was superfused on the mesenteric vasculature followed by intravital imaging. The mesenteric caspase‐3 activity was measured fluorometrically. Haemorrhagic shock induced a significant increase in hyperpermeability compared to the sham‐control group and FK506 treatment decreased HS‐induced hyperpermeability significantly (P < .05). FK506 dampened HS‐induced loss of MTP and elevation of caspase‐3 activity significantly (P < .05). FK506 has protective effects against HS‐induced microvascular hyperpermeability. The maintenance of the MTP and protection against caspase‐3 mediated endothelial cell barrier disruption are possible mechanisms by which FK506 attenuates HS‐induced hyperpermeability. FK506, currently used in clinical settings as an immunomodulator, needs to be explored further for its therapeutic usefulness against HS‐induced vascular hyperpermeability and associated complications.
Role of the YehD fimbriae in the virulence‐associated properties of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli
Authors: Soria‐Bustos Jorge , Saitz Waleska , Medrano Abraham , Lara‐Ochoa Cristina , Bennis Zineb , Monteiro‐Neto Valerio , dos Santos Camilla Itapary , Rodrigues Josias , Hernandes Rodrigo T. , Yáñez Jorge A. , Torres Javier , Navarro‐García Fernando , Martínez‐Laguna Ygnacio , Fontes Piazza Roxane M. , Munhoz Danielle Dias , Cedillo María L. , Ares Miguel A. , De la Cruz Miguel A. , Nataro James P. , Girón Jorge A.
Published: August 2021

The interaction of enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) strains with the colonic gut mucosa is characterized by the ability of the bacteria to form robust biofilms, to bind mucin, and induce a local inflammatory response. These events are mediated by a repertoire of five different aggregative adherence fimbriae variants (AAF/I‐V) typically encoded on virulence plasmids. In this study, we report the production in EAEC strains of a new YehD fimbriae (YDF), which is encoded by the chromosomal gene cluster yehABCD, also present in most E. coli strains. Immuno‐labelling of EAEC strain 042 with anti‐AAF/II and anti‐YDF antibodies demonstrated the presence of both AAF/II and YDF on the bacterial surface. We investigated the role of YDF in cell adherence, biofilm formation, colonization of spinach leaves, and induction of pro‐inflammatory cytokines release. To this aim, we constructed yehD deletion mutants in different EAEC backgrounds (strains 17‐2, 042, 55989, C1010, 278‐1, J7) each harbouring one of the five AAFs. The effect of the YDF mutation was strain dependent and AAF independent as the lack of YDF had a different impact on the phenotypes manifested by the different EAECs tested. Expression of the yehABCD operon in a E. coli K12 ORN172 showed that YDF is important for biofilm formation but not for adherence to HeLa cells. Lastly, screening of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in supernatants of Caco‐2 cells infected with EAEC strains 042 and J7 and their isogenic ΔyehD mutants showed that these mutants were significantly defective in release of IL‐8 and TNF‐α. This study contributes to the understanding of the complex and diverse mechanisms of adherence of EAEC strains and identifies a new potential target for preventive measures of gastrointestinal illness caused by EAEC and other E. coli pathogroups.
The E phylogroup ofEscherichia coliis highly diverse and mimics the wholeE. colispecies population structure
Authors: Clermont Olivier , Condamine Bénédicte , Dion Sara , Gordon David M. , Denamur Erick
Published: August 2021

To get a global picture of the population structure of theEscherichia coliphylogroup E, encompassing the O157:H7 EHEC lineage, we analysed the whole genome of 144 strains isolated from various continents, hosts and lifestyles and representative of the phylogroup diversity. The strains possess 4331 to 5440 genes with a core genome of 2771 genes and a pangenome of 33 722 genes. The distribution of these genes among the strains shows an asymmetric U‐shaped distribution. E phylogenetic strains have the largest genomes of the species, partly explained by the presence of mobile genetic elements. Sixty‐eight lineages were delineated, some of them exhibiting extra‐intestinal virulence genes and being virulent in the mouse sepsis model. Except for the EHEC lineages and the reference EPEC, EIEC and ETEC strains, very few strains possess intestinal virulence genes. Most of the strains were devoid of acquired resistance genes, but eight strains possessed extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase genes. Human strains belong to specific lineages, some of them being virulent and antibiotic‐resistant [sequence type complexes (STcs) 350 and 2064]. The E phylogroup mimics all the features of the species as a whole, a phenomenon already observed at the STc level, arguing for a fractal population structure ofE. coli.
From research to reality: Australian evidence‐based practice in autism education
Authors: Garrad Traci‐Ann , Rayner Christopher , Pedersen Scott , Cuskelly Monica
Published: August 2021

Many teachers are sporadic in using evidence‐based practice (EBP) concerning students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Numerous reasons have been posited for this. However, no single study has worked to understand the relative importance of identified criteria in the EBP decision‐making processes of teachers. Through the development of a new survey tool, the Evidence‐Based Practice Innovation Survey (EBPIAS), an exploration of the decision‐making process of Australian teachers in their adoption and cessation of EBP was undertaken. Teachers rated the perception that an EBP would meet the needs of their students as the most important criteria in determining their use of EBP. Conversely, the judgement that an EBP did not meet the needs of their student was the most important criteria in their decision to cease use. In comparing the relevant importance of identified criteria, teachers rated the perception of training as the second‐lowest consideration in their decision to adopt and cease using EBP. Consequently, there may need to be greater promotion of, or information concerning, the training required by teachers for effective implementation supporting a more balanced and holistic approach in assessing criteria impacting the adoption of EBP by teachers in the first instance, potentially lowering cessation rates.
Posterior Probabilities for Lorenz and Stochastic Dominance of Australian Income Distributions*
Authors: Gunawan David , Griffiths William E. , Chotikapanich Duangkamon
Published: August 2021

Using Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) data for 2001, 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2017, we compute posterior probabilities for dominance for all pairwise comparisons of income distributions in these years. The dominance criteria considered are Lorenz dominance and first‐ and second‐order stochastic dominance. The income distributions are estimated using an infinite mixture of gamma density functions, with posterior probabilities computed as the proportion of Markov chain Monte Carlo draws that satisfy the inequalities that define the dominance criteria. We find welfare improvements from 2001 to 2006 and qualified improvements from 2006 to the later three years. Evidence of an ordering between 2010, 2014 and 2017 cannot be established.
Single nucleotide polymorphism‐based methodology for authentication of bovine, caprine, ovine, camel, and donkey meat cuts
Authors: Galal‐Khallaf Asmaa , Hussein Doaa , El‐Sayed Hassab El‐Nabi Sobhy
Published: August 2021

To guarantee food safetyand sustainability, it is necessary to verify meat authenticity. This study focused on the development of single nucleotide polymorphism‐based polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (SNP‐based PCR‐RFLP) and forensically informative nucleotide sequence (FINS) methodologies based on PCR amplification of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene for discrimination of six red meat species, that is, cattle, buffalo, goat, sheep, camel, and donkey. FINS allowed the unambiguous identification of all species analyzed. In addition, six SNPs, where a restriction site for TasI could be localized using a preliminary in silico analysis, gave a unique RFLP pattern for each species. The results revealed a low level of species substitution (8%) in the tested meat samples. In particular, one buffalo and goat samples have been substituted with cow and sheep, respectively. Finally, the developed techniques herein showed high potentials to be routinely used as reliable and fast tools to avoid meat species substitutions.

Practical Application

This research deals with genetic techniques to trace meats. This kind of research helps the concerned agencies to build capacity to safeguard consumer sentiments as well as providing better market access and better food price and quality for the consumer.
Feasibility of arm‐draining lymph node‐sparing radiotherapy of breast cancer: A pilot planning study
Authors: Waldstein Cora , Moodie Trevor , Ashworth Simon , Ahern Verity , Stuart Kirsty , Wang Wei
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Lymphoedema following axillary radiotherapy for breast cancer causes significant morbidity. Our goal was to evaluate the feasibility of sparing the lymph node that drains the arm’s lymphatics (ARM node) while achieving standard dose constraints for whole breast and comprehensive lymph node irradiation.

Methods

Six patients underwent lymphoscintigraphy and SPECT CT to identify the breast sentinel node (SN) and ARM node. The ARM node was contoured on the SPECT CT and deformably registered to the radiotherapy treatment planning CT. Radiotherapy plans (50 Gy in 25 fractions) with VMAT technique were generated, with the aim to spare the ARM node (Mean dose <25 Gy) and achieve adequate coverage to the remaining axilla. The plan required the breast SN site (clip + 10 mm surrounding the clip) to achieve D98% > 47.5 Gy, and axillary nodal CTV excluding ARM node to achieve D90% > 45 Gy.

Results

In one patient, the ARM node was within the volume of breast SN site and sparing was not possible. For the remaining 5 patients, an ARM node‐sparing plan could be successfully generated; the mean dose to the ARM node ranged from 11.2 to 23.1 Gy (median 13.8 Gy). In these 5 subjects, D90% > 45 Gy of axillary nodal CTV (range, 44.9–48.5 Gy, median 46.2 Gy) and D98% > 47.5 Gy of breast SN site were achieved.

Conclusion

In this planning study, ARM node‐sparing VMAT of the breast and lymph nodes was feasible, while maintaining adequate dosimetric coverage. However, in some individuals, localization of the ARM node in close proximity to breast SN site precluded the generation of an ARM node‐sparing treatment plan.
Nursing students’ knowledge about behavioral and biopsychosocial domains of dementia: A cross‐sectional survey study
Authors: Abu Khait Abdallah , Menger Austin , Hamaideh Shaher H. , Al‐Modallal Hanan , Abdalrahim Asem
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate nursing students' knowledge about behavioral and biopsychosocial domains of dementia and the factors associated with nurses' knowledge.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, predictive study was conducted using a web‐based survey. A convenience sample of 356 nursing students from a large public university completed an anonymous online survey comprising 25 Likert‐scale items. Univariate analyses (two‐sample t tests and one‐way ANOVA) were used for model selection at the cutoff level of 0.20 in producing a multivariate linear regression model. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to predict a given student's score using the demographic variables selected. The regression model was used to infer pairwise demographic group comparisons while controlling for other demographic variables.

Findings

The mean score of students' knowledge about dementia was 24.53 ± 7.81 out of 48 (52%). Students scored the lowest scores on knowledge about communication with and behaviors of people with dementia and the risk factors and health promotion areas in dementia care. Students' gender, current grade point average (GPA), family history with dementia, and education level had statistically significant effects on the mean total dementia knowledge score and respective subscales (p < 0.05). The model predicting the total dementia knowledge score explained the most variation among all five models conducted (29%).

Conclusions

The findings indicate that nursing curricula should introduce educational programs related to all aspects of dementia knowledge earlier on.

Implications for nursing practice

The survey findings suggest raising standards of dementia knowledge and implementing educational strategies in clinical settings that adequately prepare nurses to interact with or care for people with dementia.
Prediction of genotype performance for untested years based on additive main effects and multiplicative interaction and linear mixed models: An illustration using dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet) multiyear data
Authors: Spoorthi Vinayak , Ramesh Sampangi , Sunitha Nagenahalli Chandrappa , Vaijayanthi Panichayil Vijayakumar
Published: August 2021

Carrying out multi‐environment trials (MET) is a regular and mandatory procedure for identifying and recommending superior genotypes as cultivars of crops with no exception of dolichos bean. The accuracy of a crop MET can be increased using more efficient statistical tools such as Additive Main effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) and mixed linear models via best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) procedure. AMMI is not a single model, but rather, a family of models. Considering genotypes, environments or both as random variables, three types of BLUPs, namely BLUPg, BLUPe and BLUPge, respectively are possible. Diagnosis and use of the best AMMI model family member and type of BLUP is the key to identify the best genotype(s) for use as cultivars with a hypothesis that they will perform well in farmers' fields in future years. We diagnosed the best AMMI model family member and type of BLUP based on between‐year predictive accuracy using a 5‐year dataset in dolichos bean. Replication‐wise mean fresh pod yield of different combinations of 4‐years' was used as prediction datasets to build AMMI and BLUP models. The observed mean fresh pod yield of genotypes evaluated in the year, which is not used in modelling, was used as a validation dataset. Predictive accuracy was measured as root mean squared differences between AMMI and BLUP model‐predicted and observed mean fresh pod yield of genotypes. Our results showed that parsimonious AMMI1 model was far better than any type of BLUP in predicting the genotype performance for untested years.
A genome‐wide association study of the frailty index highlights brain pathways in ageing
Authors: Atkins Janice L. , Jylhävä Juulia , Pedersen Nancy L. , Magnusson Patrik K. , Lu Yi , Wang Yunzhang , Hägg Sara , Melzer David , Williams Dylan M. , Pilling Luke C.
Published: August 2021

Frailty is a common geriatric syndrome and strongly associated with disability, mortality and hospitalization. Frailty is commonly measured using the frailty index (FI), based on the accumulation of a number of health deficits during the life course. The mechanisms underlying FI are multifactorial and not well understood, but a genetic basis has been suggested with heritability estimates between 30 and 45%. Understanding the genetic determinants and biological mechanisms underpinning FI may help to delay or even prevent frailty. We performed a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) meta‐analysis of a frailty index in European descent UK Biobank participants (n = 164,610, 60–70 years) and Swedish TwinGene participants (n = 10,616, 41–87 years). FI calculation was based on 49 or 44 self‐reported items on symptoms, disabilities and diagnosed diseases for UK Biobank and TwinGene, respectively. 14 loci were associated with the FI (p < 5*10−8). Many FI‐associated loci have established associations with traits such as body mass index, cardiovascular disease, smoking, HLA proteins, depression and neuroticism; however, one appears to be novel. The estimated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) heritability of the FI was 11% (0.11, SE 0.005). In enrichment analysis, genes expressed in the frontal cortex and hippocampus were significantly downregulated (adjusted p < 0.05). We also used Mendelian randomization to identify modifiable traits and exposures that may affect frailty risk, with a higher educational attainment genetic risk score being associated with a lower degree of frailty. Risk of frailty is influenced by many genetic factors, including well‐known disease risk factors and mental health, with particular emphasis on pathways in the brain.
Moderators of changes in smoking, drinking and quitting behaviour associated with the first COVID‐19 lockdown in England
Authors: Jackson Sarah E. , Beard Emma , Angus Colin , Field Matt , Brown Jamie
Published: August 2021

Aim

To estimate changes in smoking, drinking and quitting behaviour from before to during the first COVID‐19 lockdown in England, and whether changes differed by age, sex or social grade.

Design

Representative cross‐sectional surveys of adults, collected monthly between August 2018 and July 2020.

Setting

England.

Participants

A total of 36 980 adults (≥ 18 years).

Measurements

Independent variables were survey month (pre‐lockdown: August–February versus lockdown months: April–July) and year (pandemic: 2019/20 versus comparator: 2018/19). Smoking outcomes were smoking prevalence, cessation, quit attempts, quit success and use of evidence‐based or remote cessation support. Drinking outcomes were high‐risk drinking prevalence, alcohol reduction attempts and use of evidence‐based or remote support. Moderators were age, sex and occupational social grade (ABC1 = more advantaged/C2DE = less advantaged).

Findings

Relative to changes during the same time period in 2018/19, lockdown was associated with significant increases in smoking prevalence [+24.7% in 2019/20 versus 0.0% in 2018/19, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.12–1.63] and quit attempts (+39.9 versus –22.2%, aOR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.76–3.50) among 18–34‐year‐olds, but not older groups. Increases in cessation (+156.4 versus –12.5%, aOR = 3.08, 95% CI = 1.86–5.09) and the success rate of quit attempts (+99.2 versus +0.8%, aOR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.31–3.98) were also observed, and did not differ significantly by age, sex or social grade. Lockdown was associated with a significant increase in high‐risk drinking prevalence among all socio‐demographic groups (+39.5 versus –7.8%, aOR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.64–1.98), with particularly high increases among women (aOR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.87–2.53) and social grades C2DE (aOR = 2.34, 95% CI = 2.00–2.74). Alcohol reduction attempts increased significantly among high‐risk drinkers from social grades ABC1 (aOR = 2.31, 95% CI = 1.78–3.00) but not C2DE (aOR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.83–1.88). There were few significant changes in use of support for smoking cessation or alcohol reduction, although samples were small.

Conclusions

In England, the first COVID‐19 lockdown was associated with increased smoking prevalence among younger adults and increased high‐risk drinking prevalence among all adults. Smoking cessation activity also increased: more younger smokers made quit attempts during lockdown and more smokers quit successfully. Socio‐economic disparities in drinking behaviour were evident: high‐risk drinking increased by more among women and those from less advantaged social grades (C2DE), but the rate of reduction attempts increased only among the more advantaged social grades (ABC1).
Cannabis use disorder and increased risk of arrhythmia‐related hospitalization in young adults
Authors: Patel Rikinkumar S. , Gonzalez Mario D. , Ajibawo Temitope , Baweja Raman
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives

Recent observations indicate that cannabis use can result in cardiovascular complications including arrhythmias. We studied the relationship between cannabis use disorder (CUD) and arrhythmia hospitalization.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2010–2014). Patients (age 15–54) with a primary diagnosis for arrhythmia (N = 570,556) were compared with non‐arrhythmia (N = 67,662,082) inpatients for odds ratio (OR) of CUD by the logistic regression model, adjusted for demographics and comorbid risk factors.

Results

The incidence of CUD in arrhythmia inpatients was 2.6%. Among cannabis users, the most prevalent arrhythmia was atrial fibrillation (42%), followed by other arrhythmias (24%) and atrial flutter (8%). Patients with CUD were younger (15–24 years, OR: 4.23), male (OR: 1.70), and African American (OR: 2.70). CUD was associated with higher odds of arrhythmia hospitalization in the young population, 1.28 times in 15–24 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.229–1.346) and 1.52 times in 25–34 years (95% CI: 1.469–1.578).

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

With the growing legalization in the United States, there is an increased use of medicinal/recreational cannabis. This is the first national study to our knowledge that found that CUD is associated with a 47%–52% increased likelihood of arrhythmia hospitalization in the younger population and the risk of association was controlled for potential confounders including other substances. The fact that atrial fibrillation is the most prevalent arrhythmia is of special concern since it can result in stroke and other embolic events. Physicians need to familiarize themselves with cannabis abuse or dependence as a risk factor for arrhythmia.
Brain tumours in children and adolescents may affect the circadian rhythm and quality of life
Authors: Pickering Line , Main Katharina M. , Feldt‐Rasmussen Ulla , Klose Marianne , Sehested Astrid , Mathiasen René , Jennum Poul
Published: August 2021

Aim

Children with brain and cervical medulla tumours may experience circadian abnormalities and poor health. We aimed to examine their circadian rhythm, fatigue and quality of life (QoL).

Methods

Children with a brain or cervical medulla tumour were recruited from the Paediatric Department, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark, between 2016 and 2020. They were grouped by tumour location involving the circadian regulatory system, defined as diencephalon, pineal gland, brain stem and cervical medulla, or other areas. Saliva melatonin and cortisol concentrations were measured. Sleep diaries and actigraphy assessed sleep‐wake patterns. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, Multidimensional Fatigue Scale and Generic Core Scale measured fatigue and QoL.

Results

We included 68 children (62% males) with a median age (25th‐75th percentiles) of 12.2 (7.7–16.3) years. Children with tumours involving the circadian regulatory system typically had a lower melatonin peak (p=0.06) and experienced significantly more fatigue and poorer QoL. Low melatonin profiles were observed in 31% and 4% had a phase‐shifted daytime peak, compared with 14% and 0%, respectively, in children with tumours located elsewhere. Children with low melatonin profiles had significantly lower inter‐daily stability than those with normal profiles.

Conclusion

Tumours involving the circadian regulatory system adversely affected circadian function, fatigue and QoL.
Genetic analysis of growth, visual scores, height, and carcass traits in Nelore cattle
Authors: da Silveira Daniel Duarte , Schmidt Patrícia Iana , Campos Gabriel Soares , de Vargas Lucas , de Souza Fabio Ricardo Pablos , Roso Vanerlei Mozaquatro , Boligon Arione Augusti
Published: August 2021

Covariance components were estimated for growth traits (BW, birth weight; WW, weaning weight; YW, yearling weight), visual scores (BQ, breed quality; CS, conformation; MS, muscling; NS, navel; PS, finishing precocity), hip height (HH), and carcass traits (BF, backfat thickness; LMA, longissimus muscle area) measured at yearling. Genetic gains were obtained and validation models on direct and maternal effects for BW and WW were fitted. Genetic correlations of growth traits with CS, PS, MS, and HH ranged from 0.20 ± 0.01 to 0.94 ± 0.01 and were positive and low with NS (0.11 ± 0.01 to 0.20 ± 0.01) and favorable with BQ (0.14 ± 0.02 to 0.37 ± 0.02). Null to moderate genetic correlations were obtained between growth and carcass traits. Genetic gains were positive and significant, except for BW. An increase of 0.76 and 0.72 kg is expected for BW and WW, respectively, per unit increase in estimated breeding value (EBV) for direct effect and an additional 0.74 and 1.43, respectively, kg per unit increase in EBV for the maternal effect. Monitoring genetic gains for HH and NS is relevant to maintain an adequate body size and a navel morphological correction, if necessary. Simultaneous selection for growth, morphological, and carcass traits in line with improve maternal performance is a feasible strategy to increase herd productivity.
Macro‐ and microscopic morphology of the flank scales of families Lutjanidae and Serranidae from the Persian Gulf Coral Reefs (Teleosts: Perciformes)
Authors: Teimori Azad , Sabbah Najmeh , Askari Hesni Majid , Motamedi Mina
Published: August 2021

Macro‐ and microscopic characteristics of flank scales for 12 species were investigated from the Persian Gulf Coral Reefs. In Lutjanus argentimaculatus and L. russellii (family Lutjanidae), the scales of different flank regions were not different, while four characters showed variation in the scale of L. lutjanus i.e., scale shape (pentagonal, hexagonal and square), anterior margin (waved, scalloped and smooth), focus shape (circular and oblong) and focus position (postero‐central and central), displayed variation. Scale type (ctenoid) and posterior margin (transforming ctenii) did not show variation and could be considered to be specific in this family. In Epinephelus chlorostigma (family Serranidae), the scales of flank regions did not display variation, while in E. areolatus, E. diacanthus and E. radiates, the scales showed considerable variation. The most variable characters were scale shape, posterior margin and focus shape. Therefore, in fish systematics studies on the base of scale, it is particularly important to compare scales from the same flank regions. Also, some criteria such as size‐dependent alternation, ontogenetic changes and variation between flank regions, should be considered. This study supports the potential of scale morphology to help for the understanding of fish diversity in the coral reef ecosystem.
New insights on ocular surface disease in patients with atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab
Authors: Bortoluzzi P. , Ferrucci S. , Galimberti D. , Garavelli F. , Pozzo Giuffrida F. , Pizzati A. , Marzano A.V. , Mapelli C.
Published: August 2021

Our study sought to describe ocular surface alterations at baseline and after 4 months of dupilumab treatment in patients with severe AD. Our findings highlight that all 25 patients showed ocular surface alterations prior to dupilumab treatment. Dupilumab may cause the worsening of clinical or subclinical pre-existing ocular alterations belonging to the spectrum of AKC.
Daily experiences of hangover severity and food consumption in young adults
Authors: Morley Kirsten C. , Logge Warren B. , Riordan Benjamin C. , Brannon Sean , Haber Paul S. , Conner Tamlin S.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Our aim was to determine whether alcohol hangover is associated with eating unhealthy foods (hot chips, soft drink) or healthy foods (fruit, vegetables).

Design

Daily diary study across 13 days (micro‐longitudinal design).

Methods

We examined a sample of 605 young adults (71% women; ages 17–25; mean age 19.91 [SD 1.86] years) who completed daily diaries in the university community and reported drinking alcohol at least twice during the 13‐day study period. Each day, participants reported on their hangover severity, their consumption of fruit, vegetables, hot chips (French fries), and soft drink, and their alcohol consumption from the previous day. Linear mixed models were used to examine within‐person associations between hangover severity and food consumption, by gender. Exploratory models also controlled for previous day alcohol consumption to acknowledge potential variability in hangover susceptibility.

Results

On days when participants reported higher severity of hangovers, they reported consuming more hot chips (β = .09, p = .001), more soft drink (β = .08, p = .001) and less fruit (β = −.06, p = .05). In our exploratory model controlling for previous day alcohol consumption, the predictive effect of hangover severity on hot chips remained (β = .08, p = .009) and significant interaction effects were observed between gender and previous day alcohol consumption on fruit (β = −.03, p = .003) and vegetable (β = −.03, p = .03) servings.

Conclusions

Higher hangover severity may lead to greater intake of some unhealthy foods such as hot chips, an effect that may not be reduceable to those associated with alcohol consumption per se. Interventions that target excessive drinking primarily, but also emphasize the importance of a healthy diet, should be considered for this population.
C644‐0303, a small‐molecule inhibitor of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway, suppresses colorectal cancer growth
Authors: Yan Yu , Zhang Yidan , Li Mengyuan , Zhang Yazhuo , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Xiaonan , Xu Yuting , Wei Wei , Wang Jie , Xu Xiaohan , Song Qiaoling , Zhao Chenyang
Published: August 2021

The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in tissue homeostasis, and its malignant activation is closely related to the occurrence and development of many cancers, especially colorectal cancer with adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and CTNNB1 mutations. By applying a TCF/lymphoid‐enhancing factor (LEF) luciferase reporter system, the high‐throughput screening of 18 840 small‐molecule compounds was performed. A novel scaffold compound, C644‐0303, was identified as a Wnt/β‐catenin signaling inhibitor and exhibited antitumor efficacy. It inhibited both constitutive and ligand activated Wnt signals and its downstream gene expression. Functional studies showed that C644‐0303 causes cell cycle arrest, induces apoptosis, and inhibits cancer cell migration. Moreover, transcription factor array indicated that C644‐0303 could suppress various tumor‐promoting transcription factor activities in addition to Wnt/β‐catenin. Finally, C644‐0303 suppressed tumor spheroidization in a 3‐dimensional cell culture model and inhibited xenograft tumor growth in mice. In conclusion, we report a novel structural small molecular inhibitor targeting the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway that has therapeutic potential for colorectal cancer treatment.
Dwell times showcase how goal structure informs preschoolers’ analysis of unfolding motion patterns
Authors: Kosie Jessica E. , Baldwin Dare A.
Published: August 2021

Using Hard et al.’s (2011) dwell‐time paradigm, 85 preschoolers (aged 2.5–4.5; 43 female; primarily from white families) advanced at their own pace through one of three slideshows. All slideshows depicted an actor reaching toward, grasping, and retrieving a ball. However, motion patterns differed for one slideshow (straight‐reach) relative to the other two (arcing‐reaches), and one of the arcing‐reach slideshows depicted a violation of typical goal‐related motion. Preschoolers’ knowledge of goal structure systematically modulated attention to event boundaries across slideshows despite surface differences, even when controlling for pixel change (an index of changes in motion). These findings showcase the value of the dwell time paradigm, and illuminate how children deploy attention as goal‐related expectations shape their analysis of continuously unfolding activity.