bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habitat use of loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Chelonia mydas) turtles in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, the northern limit of their distribution range
Authors: Kim Il-Hun , Park Il-Kook , Park Daesik , Kim Min-Seop , Cho In-Young , Yang Dongwoo , Han Dong-Jin , Cho Eunvit , Shim Won Joon , Hong Sang Hee , An Yong-Rock
Published: August 2023

Verifying habitats, including the foraging and nesting areas for sea turtles, enables an understanding of their spatial ecology and successful planning of their conservation and management strategies. Recently, the observation frequency and bycatch of loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Chelonia mydas) turtles have increased in the northern limit of their distribution range, in the northern part of the East China Sea and East Sea (Sea of Japan). We conducted satellite tracking to investigate the habitat use of seven loggerhead and eight green turtles from June 2016 to August 2022 in this area, where little is known about their spatial ecology. We applied a 50 percent volume contour method to determine their main foraging areas and analyzed 6 environmental variables to characterize their habitats. Loggerhead turtles mainly stayed in and used the East China Sea as a foraging area during the tracking period, while two individuals among them also used the East Sea as a seasonal foraging area. Most green turtles also used the East China Sea as a foraging area, near South Korea and Japan, with one individual among them using the southern part of the East Sea as a seasonal foraging area. Notably, one green turtle traveled to Hainan Island in the South China Sea, a historical nesting area. Our results showed that the two sea turtle species included the East Sea as a seasonal foraging area, possibly owing to the abundance of food sources available, despite its relatively lower sea temperature. Considering that loggerhead and green sea turtles were observed using the northern part of the East China Sea and East Sea more frequently than previously known and that the sea temperature gradually increases due to climate change, conservation and management activities are required for sea turtles in these areas.
S-PLM: Structure-aware Protein Language Model via Contrastive Learning between Sequence and Structure
Authors: Wang Duolin , Pourmirzaei Mahdi , Abbas Usman L , Zeng Shuai , Manshour Negin , Esmaili Farzaneh , Poudel Biplab , Jiang Yuexu , Shao Qing , Chen Jin , Xu Dong
Published: August 2023

Proteins play an essential role in various biological and engineering processes. Large protein language models (PLMs) present excellent potential to reshape protein research by accelerating the determination of protein function and the design of proteins with the desired functions. The prediction and design capacity of PLMs relies on the representation gained from the protein sequences. However, the lack of crucial 3D structure information in most PLMs restricts the prediction capacity of PLMs in various applications, especially those heavily dependent on 3D structures. To address this issue, we introduce S-PLM, a 3D structure-aware PLM that utilizes multi-view contrastive learning to align the sequence and 3D structure of a protein in a coordinated latent space. S-PLM applies Swin-Transformer on AlphaFold-predicted protein structures to embed the structural information and fuses it into sequence-based embedding from ESM2. Additionally, we provide a library of lightweight tuning tools to adapt S-PLM for diverse protein property prediction tasks. Our results demonstrate S-PLM’s superior performance over sequence-only PLMs on all protein clustering and classification tasks, achieving competitiveness comparable to state-of-the-art methods requiring both sequence and structure inputs. S-PLM and its lightweight tuning tools are available athttps://github.com/duolinwang/S-PLM/.
Fungal-bacteria interactions provide shelter for bacteria in Caesarean section scar diverticulum
Authors: Chen Peigen , Chen Haicheng , Liu Ziyu , Pan Xinyi , Liu Qianru , Yang Xing
Published: August 2023

Caesarean section scar diverticulum (CSD) is a significant cause of infertility among women who have previously had a Caesarean section, primarily due to persistent inflammatory exudation associated with this condition. Even though abnormal bacterial composition is identified as a critical factor leading to this chronic inflammation, clinical data suggests that a long-term cure is often unattainable with antibiotic treatment alone. In our study, we employed metagenomic analysis and mass spectrometry techniques to investigate the fungal composition in CSD and its interaction with bacteria. We discovered that local fungal abnormalities in CSD can disrupt the stability of the bacterial population and the entire microbial community by altering bacterial abundance via specific metabolites. For instance,Lachnellula suecicareduces the abundance of severalLactobacillus spp., such asLactobacillus jensenii, by diminishing the production of metabolites likeGoyaglycoside AandJanthitrem E. Concurrently,Clavispora lusitaniaeandOphiocordyceps australiscan synergistically impact the abundance ofLactobacillus spp. by modulating metabolite abundance. Our findings underscore that abnormal fungal composition and activity are key drivers of local bacterial dysbiosis in CSD.
TheArabidopsisSR45 splicing factor bridges the splicing machinery and the exon-exon junction complex
Authors: Fanara Steven , Schloesser Marie , Joris Marine , De Franco Simona , Vandevenne Marylène , Kerff Frédéric , Hanikenne Marc , Motte Patrick
Published: August 2023

The Arabidopsis splicing factor serine/arginine-rich 45 (SR45) contributes to several biological processes. Thesr45-1loss-of-function mutant exhibits delayed root development, late flowering, unusual numbers of floral organs, shorter siliques with decreased seed sets, narrower leaves and petals, and altered metal distribution. SR45 bears a unique RNA recognition motif (RRM) flanked by one serine/arginine-rich (RS) domain on both sides. Here, we studied the function of each of SR45 domains by examining their involvement in: (i) the spatial distribution of SR45, (ii) the establishment of a protein-protein interaction network including spliceosomal and exon-exon junction complex (EJC) components, and (iii) the RNA binding specificity. We report that the endogenousSR45promoter is active during vegetative and reproductive growth, and that the SR45 protein localizes in the nucleus. We demonstrate that the C-terminal arginine/serine-rich domain is a determinant of nuclear localization. We show that the SR45 RNA recognition motif (RRM) domain specifically binds purine-rich RNA motifs via three residues (H101, H141, Y143), and is also involved in protein-protein interactions. We further show that SR45 bridges both mRNA splicing and surveillance machineries as a partner of EJC core components and peripheral factors, which requires phosphoresidues likely phosphorylated by kinases from both CLK and SRPK families. Our findings provide insights into the contribution of each SR45 domain to both spliceosome and EJC assemblies.

Highlight

The contribution of the Arabidopsis SR45 splicing factor individual domains to its nuclear localization, ability to contactin plantanovel protein partners and specifically bind RNA motifs was examined.
CryoEM reveals the structure of an archaeal pilus involved in twitching motility
Authors: Gaines Matthew C. , Sivabalasarma Shamphavi , Isupov Michail N. , Haque Risat Ul , McLaren Mathew , Hanus Cyril , Gold Vicki A.M. , Albers Sonja-Verena , Daum Bertram
Published: August 2023

Amongst the major archaeal filament types, several have been shown to closely resemble bacterial homologues of the Type IV pili (T4P). WithinSulfolobales,member species encode for three types of T4P, namely the archaellum, the UV-inducible pilus (Uvp) and the archaeal adhesive pilus (Aap). Whereas the archaellum functions primarily in swimming motility, and the Uvp in UV-induced cell aggregation and DNA-exchange, the Aap plays an important role in adhesion and twitching motility. All previously solved Aap appear to have almost identical helical structures. Here, we present a cryoEM structure of the Aap of the archaeal model organismSulfolobus acidocaldarius.We identify the component subunit as AapB and find that while its structure follows the canonical T4P blueprint, it adopts three distinct conformations within the pilus. The tri-conformer Aap structure that we describe challenges our current understanding of pilus structure and sheds new light on the principles of twitching motility.
Biomechanical comparison of plate materials and designs for subcondylar fracture fixation: Anin silicoassessment
Authors: Gupta Anoushka , Dutta Abir , Dutta Kaushik , Mukherjee Kaushik
Published: August 2023

The fixation of common mandibular subcondylar fractures is associated with a high complication rate, and the decision of a suitable plate design and material still remains a challenge. Computational models have been developed and verified for understanding mandibular fracture fixation, but most of the investigation has been limited to a simplified model, single force and evaluation of plate-only designs. Using finite elements, we analysed the fracture stability with five materials - Nitinol, Magnesium alloys, two types of Titanium alloys (Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6Zr) and Stainless Steel 316L, for four types of fixation plate designs. The soft tissues such as periodontal ligament, were included and molar clenching tasks were considered for accurately mimicking the physiological mastication cycle. The maximum principal tensile strain in the mandible was found to be decreasing with an increase in stiffness for most of the cases, except for the trapezoid and strut plates. We attribute the differences between trapezoid/strut and double mini/lambda to the presence of an additional screw near the sigmoid notch in the proximal segment in case of double mini and lambda plates. As the mandible reconstructed with double mini plates had the least interfragmentary gap, the double mini plate was deemed as the most suitable design. The results such as a lower von Mises stress in plates (compared to yield strength) indicated that the anchorage provided by titanium alloys (Ti-6Al-4V and TNTZ) is sufficient for load bearing.
Two distinct mechanisms of Plexin A function inDrosophilaoptic lobe lamination and morphogenesis
Authors: Bustillo Maria E. , Douthit Jessica , Astigarraga Sergio , Treisman Jessica E.
Published: August 2023

Visual circuit development is characterized by subdivision of neuropils into layers that house distinct sets of synaptic connections. We find that in theDrosophilamedulla, this layered organization depends on the axon guidance regulator Plexin A. Inplexin Anull mutants, synaptic layers of the medulla neuropil and arborizations of individual neurons are wider and less distinct than in controls. Analysis of Semaphorin function indicates that Semaphorin 1a, provided by cells that include Tm5 neurons, is the primary partner for Plexin A in medulla lamination. Removal of the cytoplasmic domain of endogenous Plexin A does not disrupt the formation of medulla layers; however, both null and cytoplasmic domain deletion mutations ofplexin Aresult in an altered overall shape of the medulla neuropil. These data suggest that Plexin A acts as a receptor to mediate morphogenesis of the medulla neuropil, and as a ligand for Semaphorin 1a to subdivide it into layers. Its two independent functions illustrate how a few guidance molecules can organize complex brain structures by each playing multiple roles.

Summary statement

The axon guidance molecule Plexin A has two functions inDrosophilamedulla development; morphogenesis of the neuropil requires its cytoplasmic domain, but establishing synaptic layers through Semaphorin 1a does not.
What’s on the menu? How celebrity chef brands create happiness
Authors: Rodrigues Paula , Brochado Ana , Sousa Ana , Borges Ana Pinto , Barbosa Isabel
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims, first, to understand consumers’ perception of chefs as human brands (i.e. study one). Second, tests were run to assess the validity of a new conceptual model of the relationships between the factors of chef image, luxury restaurant image, both images’ congruity and consumers’ hedonic and novelty experiences and happiness and well-being (i.e. study two).

Design/methodology/approach

The first qualitative study involved using Leximancer software to analyse the data drawn from 43 interviews with luxury restaurant clients. In the second quantitative study, 993 valid survey questionnaires were collected, and the proposed model was tested using structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results reveal that consumers perceive chefs as human brands and the associated narratives include both performance- and popularity-based characteristics. The findings support the conclusion that individuals give great importance to chefs’ image and the congruence between chefs and their restaurant’s image. In addition, luxury restaurant image only affects novelty experiences, and both hedonic and novelty experiences have a positive effect on customers’ happiness and well-being.

Research limitations/implications

This research focused on Portuguese luxury restaurants. The consumers’ happiness and well-being needs to be replaced by other outcomes to confirm if the model produces consistent results.

Practical implications

The results should help luxury restaurant managers understand more fully which pull factors are valued by their clients and which aspects contribute the most to their pleasure and welfare.

Originality/value

This study adds to the extant literature by exploring consumers’ perceptions of chefs as human brands and the role these chefs’ image play in customers’ luxury restaurant experiences and perceived happiness and well-being.
Bridging the theory-practice gap: a critical reflection on information and communication technology research
Authors: Law Rob , Lei Soey Sut Ieng , Zhang Ke , Lau Arthur
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Through critically reflecting on existing research on information and communication technology (ICT) in hospitality, the purpose of this study is to propose recommendations for future research to further narrow the theory-practice gap.

Design/methodology/approach

Personal experiences along with evidence from the literature provide a foundation for discussion, which is further enriched by integrating industry practitioners’ points of view.

Findings

Single-perspective and technology adoption studies have dominated ICT research in the hospitality literature. Technology effectiveness has often been measured indirectly. Oversimplifying technological issues has limited the generalizability of research findings.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies are suggested to go beyond examining technology adoption, embrace multi-perspective approaches and incorporate a wider range of situational and contextual factors.

Originality/value

Through a unique perspective, this study highlights the limitations of previous ICT research in the hospitality literature and provides suggestions for future research to better meet the needs of practitioners. The arguments presented are not purely from an academic standpoint, as they have been endorsed by senior industry executives.
Adoption of the Internet of Things in higher education: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Fernández-Batanero José M. , Montenegro-Rueda Marta , Fernández-Cerero José , López Menéses Eloy
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the characteristics of the studies in terms of country, participant profile and methodology, as well as to determine what the Internet of Things (IoT) is currently contributing to higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was developed following the methodology supported by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement and the PICOS strategy, retrieving scientific literature from Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC and Google Scholar. Of the 237 studies that the search yielded, 11 were included.

Findings

The results showed that among the opportunities offered by IoT is that it not only brings the introduction of information and communication technology into the classroom, but also enhances student interest, thus, improving the quality of teaching in higher education. On the other hand, one of the challenges it faces is the attitude of teachers towards its adoption, as well as the level of digital competence of teachers.

Originality/value

This study presents how higher education institutions are including the IoT in their educational activities. The IoT refers to a network of digital interconnectivity between devices, people and the internet itself that enables the exchange of data between them, allowing key information about the use and performance of devices and objects to be captured to detect patterns, make recommendations, improve efficiency and create better user experiences.
Unmasking online fake job group financial scams: a thematic examination of victim exploitation from perspective of financial behavior
Authors: Ridho Wahyu Fahrul
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to critically examine a prevalent online scam mechanism, with the aim of understanding its exploitation of behavioral finance principles and group dynamics and propose effective countermeasures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a blend of case study and thematic analysis, drawing from behavioral finance, social psychology and criminology, using primary source testimonies of victims to provide a detailed exploration of the scam’s operations.

Findings

This research uncovers the strategic use of four key principles: loss aversion, overconfidence, scarcity bias and social proof, within the scam operation. These tendencies are manipulated to induce victims to progressively invest into the fraudulent scheme, even amid growing suspicions.

Research limitations/implications

While the research elucidates on the workings of one specific online scam, it is necessary to explore if and how these principles are used in various other online fraudulent schemes, to develop comprehensive countermeasures.

Practical implications

The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced public awareness, stronger corporate responsibility and robust regulatory oversight. There is a call for concerted efforts encompassing public education campaigns, fortified security protocols and strong legal frameworks for preventing such scams.

Social implications

The research emphasizes the need for collective action in ensuring a safe online space. This involves the individual user’s prudence, businesses’ proactive education initiatives and stringent legal actions against fraudulent activities.

Originality/value

This research offers novel insights into the nuanced manipulation of behavioral finance principles within online scams, based on empirical data from victim testimonials. These findings contribute to the understanding of the psychological mechanisms at play in online scams and are instrumental in formulating effective preventive strategies.
Uncovering the hidden roots: the tapestry of working capital efficiency in Indian MSMEs
Authors: Tripathi Deepak Kumar , Chadha Saurabh , Tripathi Ankita
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Working capital efficiency (WCE) is crucial for the sustainability of both large and small firms. This study aims to use the sample of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in India and tries to understand the critical determinants of WCE.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a fixed effect panel data model on a sample of 578 MSMEs (59 micro, 226 medium and 296 small firms), this study explores the relationship between the predictors of WCE. Additionally, the study adopted two metrics for measuring WCE among each type of firm (micro, small and medium).

Findings

Several firm-specific variables, including leverage (lever), firm age (AGE), firm size (Fsiz), profitability (Prof), extended payment terms (EPT), human capital (HCap), asset turnover ratio (ATR), reverse factoring (RF) and firm growth (FG), have a significant effect on working capital management efficiency (WCE). In contrast, tangibility (Tangib) and salary expenses (Sal) had an insignificant effect on working capital management efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on secondary data. Future studies may incorporate some primary data, which will facilitate qualitative analysis.

Originality/value

The studies explore the relationship between WCE and expenses in HCap, EPT, RF and Sal as the predictors for WCE, which was not studied earlier in MSMEs scenario, especially in case of developing nation.
Implementing artificial intelligence in library services: a review of current prospects and challenges of developing countries
Authors: Barsha Sayantoni , Munshi Shamim Aktar
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of today’s rising technologies. AI is a commonly used technology in library services that have the potential to revolutionise the best offerings in the information age. With AI in libraries, users can explore the world of knowledge like never before with smart recommendations tailored to their needs. Overall, AI can enhance the library experience of both the users and library professionals with innovation and smart decisions. Hence, there is no doubt that AI and libraries have a close relationship; nonetheless, the usage and understanding of AI in library services continue to raise concerns, especially in the developing countries which this paper addresses. The purpose of this research paper is to review the current prospects and challenges of implementing AI in library services in developing countries. The primary objective of the study is to discern the pivotal predicaments and obstacles these nations face while implementing AI-based solutions and to propose pragmatic solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study adopts a qualitative approach, using content analysis techniques to glean meaningful insights. An extensive review of the extant literature on the subject was conducted, which was meticulously analysed to furnish the findings of this study. The review is limited to English language sources, and searches were conducted using various online academic databases.

Findings

The review reveals that the prospects of implementing AI in library services in developing countries are significant, with potential benefits including improved access to information, increased efficiency and productivity and enhanced user experience. However, the review also identifies several challenges, including the lack of infrastructure and resources, the shortage of skilled personnel, the absence of data privacy regulations, digital divide and the high cost of implementing AI-based solutions.

Practical implications

The review suggests several practical solutions to overcome the challenges faced by developing countries in implementing AI in library services. These include partnerships between libraries and technology firms, investment in infrastructure and resources, training and capacity building for library staff and the development of regulatory frameworks to protect user data.

Originality/value

This research paper provides a comprehensive review of the prospects and challenges of implementing AI in library services in developing countries. The study is original in its focus on the perspectives of developing countries, their problems and obstacles. The study also provides practical recommendations that can be used by library managers, policymakers and technology firms to support the implementation of AI-based solutions in developing countries.
How country governance situation affect firm financing arrangements: empirical evidence from selected Asian economies
Authors: Subhani Bilal Haider , Farooq Umar , Ashfaq Khurram , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the potential impact of country-level governance in corporate financing structures.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-step system generalized method of moment was used due to the endogeneity issue. The whole sample comprises 3,761 firms in five economies – China, India, Pakistan, Singapore and South Korea – from 2007 to 2016.

Findings

The results indicate that the debt option for financing is not favorable under governments with an adequate governance arrangement. However, there is a direct and significant link between country governance and equity financing because in adequate governance arrangements, the possibilities of information asymmetry are minimal and businesses consider equity a more appropriate and safer financing instrument. In contrast, firms prefer to trade-credit financing in poor governance economies, which confirms an adverse link between trade credit and adequate governance.

Practical implications

The country’s governance should be considered a sensitive matter when deciding about corporate financing.

Originality/value

This arrangement of variables has not been previously analyzed in the literature, suggesting the study’s novelty.
The costs of living on the coast: Reduction in body size and size‐specific reproductive output in coastal populations of a widespread amphibian
Authors: Lorrain‐Soligon Léa , Périsse Luca , Robin Fréderic , Jankovic Marko , Brischoux François
Published: August 2023

Body size is a critical component of organismal biology. Body size is known to be influenced by a plethora of environmental conditions, among which exposure to large scale variations of salinity has been comparatively overlooked. Yet, exposure to salinity is known to affect energetic allocation toward growth and reproduction.

In this study, we investigated the morphological differences between inland and coastal individuals of spined toads (Bufo spinosus) in Western France.

We measured adult morphology both outside and during the reproductive season on 190 individuals, and assessed reproduction in pairs originating from inland (N = 20) and coastal (N = 30) environments.

Overall, we found that adult coastal toads were smaller and lighter than inland individuals. Reproductive correlates of these differences included lower fecundity and smaller egg size (but higher egg density) in coastal females. Interestingly, these differences were not allometric correlates of body size, as coastal females invested proportionally less in all components of reproduction (fecundity, egg size and egg protection).

These results suggest altered resource allocation to growth and reproduction in coastal amphibians, which may be related to the marked spatial gradient of salinity (measured in reproductive ponds) and the associated costs of osmoregulation (higher osmolality in coastal individuals), for which local adaptation and higher tolerance to salinity remains to be tested.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Intraoperative hemodynamics and risk of cardiac surgery‐associated acute kidney injury: An observation study and a feasibility clinical trial
Authors: Noe Khin M. , Don Andrea , Cochrane Andrew D. , Zhu Michael Z. L. , Ngo Jennifer P. , Smith Julian A. , Thrift Amanda G. , Vogiatjis Johnny , Martin Andrew , Bellomo Rinaldo , McMillan James , Evans Roger G.
Published: August 2023

Targeting greater pump flow and mean arterial pressure (MAP) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) could potentially alleviate renal hypoxia and reduce the risk of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI). Therefore, in an observational study of 93 patients undergoing on‐pump cardiac surgery, we tested whether intraoperative hemodynamic management differed between patients who did and did not develop AKI. Then, in 20 patients, we assessed the feasibility of a larger‐scale trial in which patients would be randomized to greater than normal target pump flow and MAP, or usual care, during CPB. In the observational cohort, MAP during hypothermic CPB averaged 68.8 ± 8.0 mmHg (mean ± SD) in the 36 patients who developed AKI and 68.9 ± 6.3 mmHg in the 57 patients who did not (p = 0.98). Pump flow averaged 2.4 ± 0.2 L/min/m2 in both groups. In the feasibility clinical trial, compared with usual care, those randomized to increased target pump flow and MAP had greater mean pump flow (2.70 ± 0.23 vs. 2.42 ± 0.09 L/min/m2 during the period before rewarming) and systemic oxygen delivery (363 ± 60 vs. 281 ± 45 mL/min/m2). Target MAP ≥80 mmHg was achieved in 66.6% of patients in the intervention group but in only 27.3% of patients in the usual care group. Nevertheless, MAP during CPB did not differ significantly between the two groups. We conclude that little insight was gained from our observational study regarding the impact of variations in pump flow and MAP on the risk of AKI. However, a clinical trial to assess the effects of greater target pump flow and MAP on the risk of AKI appears feasible.
‘Fraternity for Frustrated Females’: The Gender Dynamics of 1970s Feminist Organising at the University of Waterloo, Canada
Authors: Blair Megan
Published: August 2023

In 1970, a male student at the University of Waterloo in Waterloo, Ontario deemed the campus women's liberation group to be a ‘fraternity for frustrated females’. This perspective was commonplace at the supposedly liberal school, as male dissent against autonomous women's organising continued throughout the early 1970s. While women organised protests against sexist campus events, held consciousness‐raising groups and encouraged discussion about gender roles in society, many male students turned away from women's pleas for change and were not receptive to encouraging equality on campus. This research examines the attempted involvement of male students in the women's liberation movement at the University of Waterloo and the anti‐feminist rhetoric that percolated on campus. By using a micro‐history of the University of Waterloo and analysing the student newspaper, The Chevron, it illustrates the ways in which women students organised despite backlash from male students and the daily sexism women faced on campus. It reveals the challenges women faced in gaining equality and the climate of youth masculinity in a period of tumultuous social change.
Comparison of surface resistance‐based models for estimating maize evapotranspiration in a humid region of China
Authors: Liu Chunwei , Qiu Rangjian , Cui Ningbo , Zhang Baozhong , Wang Ranghui , Wang Zhenchang , Guo Weihua
Published: August 2023

Accurate simulation of evapotranspiration (ET) is essential to enhance efficient irrigation management in the maize field. Here, we evaluated the performance of four mathematical models for estimating the ET of maize. The four models based on surface resistance calculate ET from different vapor sources, which are Penman‐Monteith (PM) through the “big leaf” model, the Shuttleworth‐Wallace (SW) model for distinguishing between soil and canopy, the clumping (C) model for distinguishing between canopy, soils under the canopy and bare soil, and the seasonal clumping (Cj) model for dividing ET into transpiration of sunlit leaves and shaded leaves, evaporation of bare soil surface, sunlit soil surface of canopy gap fraction, and canopy shaded soil surfaces. The models were calibrated by ET measured from a weighing lysimeter, transpiration by the sap flux method, and soil evaporation by micro‐lysimeters in 2014, 2015, and 2017. Results showed that the measured daily transpiration was 3.32 mm/day during the full‐grown stage of maize, and the mean measured daily soil evaporation was 1.46 mm/day. The performance of the sap flow for transpiration plus micro‐lysimeter for soil evaporation method was consistent with the large‐weighted lysimeter method in measuring daily ET. For simulating versus measuring hourly transpiration, the Cj model performed better than the C model with a slope of 0.94, determination coefficient (R2) of 0.85, mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.08 mm/h, and modified agreement index (d) of 0.81. In simulating daily soil evaporation, the Cj model also had a higher slope and less MAE than the C and SW models. Nevertheless, the Cj model yielded increased slope and d and decreased MAE between simulated and measured daily ET. The most sensitive environmental factor in the Cj model is temperature. With a 50% increase in temperature, ET, transpiration, and evaporation increase by 45%, 36%, and 69%, respectively. In summary, the Cj model improved the accuracy for hourly and daily ET of maize and helped separate plant transpiration and soil evaporation, thus giving an available approach for precision irrigation in water management of maize planting systems.
SETD1A‐mediated H3K4me3 methylation upregulates lncRNA HOXC‐AS3 and the binding of HOXC‐AS3 to EP300 and increases EP300 stability to suppress the ferroptosis of NSCLC cells
Authors: Shi Zhenliang , Zhang Hao , Shen Yimeng , Zhang Sipei , Zhang Xun , Xu Yijun , Sun Daqiang
Published: August 2023

Background

Histone methyltransferases are crucial regulators in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) development. This study explored the mechanism of histone methyltransferase SET domain containing 1A (SETD1A)‐mediated H3K4me2 methylation in NSCLC cell ferroptosis and provides novel targets for NSCLC treatment.

Methods

Upon downregulation of SETD1A in NSCLC cell lines, cell proliferation potential, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) activities, iron content, and SETD1A, long noncoding RNA HOXC cluster antisense RNA 3 (lncRNA HOXC‐AS3), E1A binding protein p300 (EP300), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expressions were determined via cell counting kit‐8, ELISA, iron assay kits, RT‐qPCR, and western blot. Enrichment levels of SETD1A and H3K4me3 in the HOXC‐AS3 promotor were measured via chromatin immunoprecipitation, and the binding of HOXC‐AS3 and EP300 was analyzed via RNA immunoprecipitation. Rescue experiments were performed to confirm their roles in NSCLC cell ferroptosis. Xenograft tumor models were established to validate the role of SETD1A in vivo.

Results

SETD1A, H3K4me3, HOXC‐AS3, and EP300 were highly‐expressed in NSCLC cells. Silencing SETD1A inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation, increased MDA and iron levels, and decreased SOD, GSH, and GPX4 levels. SETD1A downregulation reduced H3K4me3 level, HOXC‐AS3 expression, the binding of HOXC‐AS3 to EP300, and EP300 stability. Overexpression of HOXC‐AS3 or EP300 reversed the promotion of silencing SETD1A on NSCLC cell ferroptosis. Silencing SETD1A reduced tumor volume and weight and positive rate of ki67 and increased ferroptosis through the HOXC‐AS3/EP300 axis.

Conclusion

SETD1A‐mediated H3K4me2 methylation promoted HOXC‐AS3 expression, binding of HOXC‐AS3 to EP300, and EP300 stability, thereby suppressing NSCLC cell ferroptosis.
Decoding of translation‐regulating entities reveals heterogeneous translation deficiency patterns in cellular senescence
Authors: Papaspyropoulos Angelos , Hazapis Orsalia , Altulea Abdullah , Polyzou Aikaterini , Verginis Panayotis , Evangelou Konstantinos , Fousteri Maria , Papantonis Argyris , Demaria Marco , Gorgoulis Vassilis
Published: August 2023

Cellular senescence constitutes a generally irreversible proliferation barrier, accompanied by macromolecular damage and metabolic rewiring. Several senescence types have been identified based on the initiating stimulus, such as replicative (RS), stress‐induced (SIS) and oncogene‐induced senescence (OIS). These senescence subtypes are heterogeneous and often develop subset‐specific phenotypes. Reduced protein synthesis is considered a senescence hallmark, but whether this trait pertains to various senescence subtypes and if distinct molecular mechanisms are involved remain largely unknown. Here, we analyze large published or experimentally produced RNA‐seq and Ribo‐seq datasets to determine whether major translation‐regulating entities such as ribosome stalling, the presence of uORFs/dORFs and IRES elements may differentially contribute to translation deficiency in senescence subsets. We show that translation‐regulating mechanisms may not be directly relevant to RS, however uORFs are significantly enriched in SIS. Interestingly, ribosome stalling, uORF/dORF patterns and IRES elements comprise predominant mechanisms upon OIS, strongly correlating with Notch pathway activation. Our study provides for the first time evidence that major translation dysregulation mechanisms/patterns occur during cellular senescence, but at different rates depending on the stimulus type. The degree at which those mechanisms accumulate directly correlates with translation deficiency levels. Our thorough analysis contributes to elucidating crucial and so far unknown differences in the translation machinery between senescence subsets.
Rab27b promotes endometriosis by enhancing invasiveness of ESCs and promoting angiogenesis
Authors: Shan Jing , Chang Ling‐Yu , Li Da‐Jin , Wang Xiao‐Qiu
Published: August 2023

Problem

Endometriosis (EMS) is an estrogen‐dependent disease which is characterized with estrogen‐dependent growth of ectopic endometrium and increased local estrogen production. EMS performs tumor‐like biological functions such as invasiveness and angiogenesis. Rab27b is a member of the Rab family of GTPases, which is strongly associated with the growth, invasion and metastasis of a variety of tumors. However, little is known about the function of Rab27b in EMS. In this study, we intended to investigate the impact of Rab27b and its downstream molecule in the development of EMS.

Method of study

Normal endometrium and endometriotic lesions were collected to investigate the expression levels of Rab27b. Then, ESCs were transfected with Rab27b siRNA. We analyzed the influence of Rab27b on the proliferation and invasive activity of ESCs. Conditioned media harvested from Rab27b siRNA‐treated ESCs were used to treat HUVECs. HUVEC Tube formation and ELISA were performed to explored the interactions between ESCs and HUVEC. In addition, ESCs were treated with different concentrations of estrogen. Based on biological database predictions, we explored possible mechanisms through which estrogen regulates the expression of Rab27b.

Results

The expressions of Rab27b were significantly higher in endometriotic lesions than that in normal endometrium. Rab27b can promote the cell proliferation, migration and invasion of ESCs. The elevated expression of Rab27b, on the one hand, promotes the secretion of MMP9 and increases the invasiveness of ESCs. On the other hand, Rab27b may play a key role in the communication between ESC and endothelial cells, by simulating VEGF secretion and neovascularization. Besides, estrogen upregulated phosphorylated FOXO1 levels in ectopic ESCs, resulting in the promotion of Rab27b expression levels.

Conclusion

Rab27b plays a key role in the development of EMS, which may provide new insights into the pathogenesis of EMS. Our findings may also contribute to the development of therapeutic interventions for EMS.
Electoral Discrimination, Party Rationale, and the Underrepresentation of Immigrant‐Origin Politicians
Authors: Auer Daniel , Portmann Lea , Tichelbaecker Thomas
Published: August 2023

Immigrants and other minorities are underrepresented in politics in most Western democracies. We argue that strategically acting party gatekeepers who update their nomination strategies based on voter behavior contribute to this representation gap. Drawing on unique panel data from Swiss local elections, we find that candidates with a “foreign‐sounding” name systematically receive not only fewer votes but are also fielded on less promising list positions compared to native candidates. We track candidates across elections and show that this inequality is driven by voter discrimination in previous elections. Our study carries relevance for research on minority candidates by linking different stages in the electoral process and showing how parties indirectly discriminate due to their use of candidate‐performance information. It also bears practical implications, pointing to avenues how parties can break the cycle of discrimination in the electoral process.
Rural origin student representation in health courses at the University of Tasmania: 2011–2020
Authors: Jessup Belinda , Tran Nga , Stevens Terri , Barnett Tony
Published: August 2023

Objective

To describe longitudinal trends in the admission and completion of domestic Tasmanian rural origin students in health courses at the University of Tasmania (UTAS).

Methods

A retrospective audit of records for all domestic Tasmanian students admitted to, or who completed a health course offered by UTAS between 2011 and 2020 was conducted. Data extracted from student records included gender, age, Indigenous background, rural origin (based on residential address outside of Launceston or Hobart at the time of application), health discipline, year of admission and/or completion. Data were analysed in STATA.

Results

Between 2011 and 2020, 7516 domestic Tasmanian students were admitted to health courses at UTAS, of which 22.6% were rural origin (vs. a rural population of 36.7%). Students admitted were mostly female (77.0%) and studying nursing (51.1%). Rural origin students were more likely to study at the regional campus in Launceston than in Hobart, the capital city (OR, 3.79 [3.4–4.3, p < 0.00]). Over this same period, 5086 students completed a health course. There was little difference in completion rates among regional vs. rural origin students (OR, 1.04 [1.0–1.1, p < 0.00]); however, completion rates decreased with increasing remoteness. Indigenous and male students were less likely to complete than non‐Indigenous (OR, 0.73 [0.7–0.8, p < 0.05]) and female students (OR, 0.97 [1.0–1.0, p < 0.05]) respectively.

Conclusions

Tasmanian rural origin students are admitted to a range of health courses at UTAS and many complete. However, additional measures are needed to attract a greater number of local rural origin students to study health courses and to support them through to course completion.
Finding kindness: A randomized controlled trial of an online self‐compassion intervention for weight management (SC4WM)
Authors: Brenton‐Peters Jennifer M. , Consedine Nathan S. , Cavadino Alana , Roy Rajshri , Ginsberg Kristin Harrison , Serlachius Anna
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Weight loss is hard to achieve and even harder to maintain. Engaging in effortful behavioural change to manage body weight can sometimes result in feelings of guilt and shame. Self‐compassion, the tendency to find kindness for oneself in times of struggle, may facilitate coping with the unique challenges of weight management. This study assessed whether a remotely delivered self‐compassion intervention improved weight management outcomes when delivered as a supplement to an existing digital behavioural weight management programme, Weight Watchers (WW).

Method

Using a mixed‐method study design, 249 adults seeking to manage weight were randomized to either the WW programme or WW supplemented with the self‐compassion for weight management intervention (SC4WM). Participants completed measures of self‐compassion, eating behaviour, physical activity, body weight and emotional well‐being along with potential moderators, including weight self‐stigma, eating restraint, psychological coping and perceived stress at baseline, post‐intervention (4 weeks) and follow‐up (12 weeks).

Results

There was no evidence that the SC4WM intervention had a significantly different effect than WW alone. Other than body weight, all outcomes improved over time in both groups. Self‐compassion was slightly higher overall in the SC4WM group (p = .05), with this group reporting higher self‐kindness at 4 weeks (p = .014) and lower self‐judgement at 12 weeks (p = .023) compared to the control group.

Conclusions

Although the SC4WM intervention group did show a small increase in self‐kindness and reduction in self‐judgement, weight management outcomes were not improved over and above the existing WW programme. Recommendations for adapting the SC4WM intervention to improve efficacy to augment weight management outcomes are provided.
Best practices for measuring community resources across Canada: A comparison of coding classifications
Authors: Young Marisa , Leipe Sean , Singh Diana
Published: August 2023

Social scientists, geographers, criminologists, and health scientists are often tasked with finding data to best capture the impact of “community context” on individual outcomes, including residential services, physical resources, and social institutions. One outlet for such data in Canada is Digital Map Technologies Inc. (DMTI) Spatial, which offers a national repository of over one million businesses and recreational points of interest. The database is generated through CanMap Streetfiles, which includes geocodes of each point's precise location. These data are available to researchers from their university data library and Esri Canada, but primarily available to private sector and government markets. That said, the goal of the current paper is to encourage researchers to access this rich yet under‐utilized data source. Each service, business, or resource in the DMTI Spatial database is assigned to a respective category using Standard Industrial Classification codes and North American Industrial Classification System codes. It is not clear, however, which is the more reliable coding criteria. We provide an overview of our review of DMTI Spatial data and take‐away suggestions for using this valuable resource for future research on meso‐level residential markers.
Gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel for pancreatic cancer and interstitial lung disease: A nationwide longitudinal study
Authors: Saito Kei , Michihata Nobuaki , Hamada Tsuyoshi , Jo Taisuke , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Nakai Yousuke , Yasunaga Hideo , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: August 2023

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is an adverse event associated with gemcitabine administration. Gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel, which is now a first‐line chemotherapy regimen for pancreatic cancer (PC), may increase the risk of ILD; however, large‐scale clinical data on this are limited. Thus, this study aimed to elucidate the incidence and risk factors of ILD in patients with PC receiving gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel. Through the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, a Japanese nationwide inpatient database with outpatient data, we identified consecutive patients with PC who received gemcitabine‐based chemotherapy between July 2010 and March 2019 at 205 hospitals. Competing‐risk analysis was used to examine the cumulative incidence and risk factors of ILD. Among the 6163 patients who received gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel, we documented 168 patients (2.7%) who developed ILD with cumulative incidence rates (95% confidence intervals [CIs]) of 2.0% (1.6%–2.4%), 2.7% (2.2%–3.1%), and 3.1% (2.6%–3.6%) at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Compared with patients with PC who received gemcitabine monotherapy, those who received gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel had an adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) for ILD of 1.93 (95% CI: 1.51–2.47). Older age was associated with a high risk of ILD in patients receiving gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel (adjusted SHR comparing ≥75 to ≤74 years, 1.61; 95% CI: 1.16–2.24). In conclusion, this study demonstrated the clinical course of gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel‐associated ILD in patients with PC. When gemcitabine plus nab‐paclitaxel is administered to elderly patients with PC, symptoms associated with ILD must be monitored.