bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting Chromatin Effector Pygo2 to Enhance Immunotherapy in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhu Yini , Zhao Yun , Wen Jiling , Liu Sheng , Huang Tianhe , Hatial Ishita , Peng Xiaoxia , Janabi Hawraa Al , Huang Gang , Mittlesteadt Jackson , Cheng Michael , Bhardwaj Atul , Ashfeld Brandon L. , Kao Kenneth R. , Maeda Dean Y. , Dai Xing , Wiest Olaf , Blagg Brian S.J. , Lu Xuemin , Cheng Liang , Wan Jun , Lu Xin
Published: June 2022

The noninflamed microenvironment in prostate cancer represents a barrier to immunotherapy. Genetic alterations underlying cancer cell-intrinsic oncogenic signaling have emerging roles in shaping the immune landscape. Recently, we identified Pygopus 2 (PYGO2) as the driver oncogene for the amplicon at 1q21.3. Here, using transgenic mouse models of metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma, we found that Pygo2 deletion decelerated tumor progression, diminished metastases, and extended survival. Pygo2 loss augmented the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and sensitized tumor cells to T cell killing. Mechanistically, Pygo2 orchestrated a p53/Sp1/Kit/Ido1 signaling network to foster a microenvironment hostile to CTLs. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of Pygo2 enhanced the anti-tumor efficacy of immunotherapies using immune checkpoint blockade, adoptive cell transfer, or myeloid-derived suppressor cell inhibitors. In human prostate cancer samples, Pygo2 expression was inversely correlated with CD8+ T cells. Our results highlight a promising path to improving immunotherapy with targeted therapy for lethal prostate cancer.
Enhancement of the Activity of the Antimicrobial Peptides HNP1 and LL-37 by Bovine Pancreatic Ribonuclease A
Authors: Ericksen Bryan
Published: June 2022

Background

HNP1, LL-37, and HBD1 are antimicrobial against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 at the standard inoculum but less active at higher inocula.

Methods

The virtual colony count (VCC) microbiological assay was adapted for high inocula and the addition of yeast tRNA and bovine pancreatic ribonuclease A (RNase). 96-well plates were read for 12 hours in a Tecan Infinite M1000 plate reader and photographed under 10x magnification.

Results

Adding tRNA 1:1 to HNP1 at the standard inoculum almost completely abrogated activity. Adding RNase 1:1 to HNP1 at the standard inoculum of 5x105 CFU/mL did not enhance activity. Increasing the inoculum to 6.25x107 CFU/mL almost abrogated HNP1 activity. However, adding RNase 25:1 to HNP1 enhanced activity. Adding both tRNA and RNase resulted in enhanced activity, indicating that the enhancement effect of RNase overwhelms the inhibiting effect of tRNA when both are present. HBD1 activity at the standard inoculum was almost completely abrogated by the addition of tRNA, but LL-37 activity was only slightly inhibited by tRNA. At the high inoculum, LL-37 activity was enhanced by RNase. HBD1 activity was not enhanced by RNase. RNase was not antimicrobial in the absence of antimicrobial peptides. Cell clumps were observed at the high inoculum in the presence of all three antimicrobial peptides and at the standard inoculum in the presence of HNP1+tRNA.

Conclusions

Antimicrobial peptide-ribonuclease combinations have the potential to be active against high cell concentrations and biofilms, conditions where the antimicrobial agent alone is relatively ineffective.
Chromatin-immunoprecipitation reveals the PnPf2 transcriptional network controlling effector-mediated virulence in a fungal pathogen of wheat
Authors: John Evan , Singh Karam B. , Oliver Richard P. , Soyer Jessica L. , Muria-Gonzalez Jordi , Soo Daniel , Jacques Silke , Tan Kar-Chun
Published: June 2022

The regulation of virulence in plant-pathogenic fungi has emerged as a key area of importance underlying host infections. Recent work has highlighted the role of transcription factors (TFs) that mediate the expression of virulence-associated genes. A prominent example is Pf2, a member of the Zn2Cys6 family of fungal TFs, where orthologues regulate the expression of genes linked to parasitism in several plant-pathogen lineages. These include PnPf2 which controls effector-gene expression in Parastagonospora nodorum, thereby determining the outcome of effector-triggered susceptibility on its host, wheat. PnPf2 is a promising target for disease suppression but the genomic targets, or whether other are regulators involved, remain unknown. This study used chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP-seq) and a mutagenesis analysis to investigate these components. Two distinct binding motifs connected to positive gene-regulation were characterised and genes directly targeted by PnPf2 were identified. These included genes encoding major effectors and other components associated with the P. nodorum pathogenic lifestyle, such as carbohydrate-active enzymes and nutrient assimilators. This supports a direct involvement of PnPf2 in coordinating virulence on wheat. Other TFs were also prominent PnPf2 targets, suggesting it also operates within a transcriptional network. Several TFs were therefore functionally investigated in connection to fungal virulence. Distinct metabolic and developmental roles were evident for the newly characterised PnPro1, PnAda1, PnEbr1 and the carbon-catabolite repressor PnCreA. Overall, the results uphold PnPf2 as the central transcriptional regulator orchestrating genes that contribute to virulence on wheat and provide mechanistic insight into how this occurs.

Importance

Fungal pathogens cause large crop losses worldwide and consequently much attention has focused on improving host genetic resistance to diseases. These pathogens use effectors, which require coordinated expression at specific stages of the pathogenic lifecycle, to manipulate the host plant metabolism in favour of infection. However, our understanding of the underlying regulatory network in coordination with other genes involved in fungal pathogenicity is lacking. The Pf2 TF orthologues are key players underpinning virulence and effector gene expression in several fungal phytopathogens, including P. nodorum. This study provided significant insight into the DNA-binding regulatory mechanisms of P. nodorum PnPf2, as well as further evidence that it is central to the coordination of virulence. In the context of crop protection, the Pf2 taxonomic orthologues present opportune targets in major fungal pathogens that can be perturbed to reduce the impact of effector triggered-susceptibility and improve disease resistance.
“It hurts your heart”: frontline healthcare worker experiences of moral injury during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hegarty Siobhan , Lamb Danni , Stevelink Sharon A. M. , Bhundia Rupa , Raine Rosalind , Doherty Mary Jane , Scott Hannah R. , Marie Anne , Williamson Victoria , Dorrington Sarah , Hotopf Matthew , Razavi Reza , Greenberg Neil , Wessely Simon
Published: June 2022

Background

Moral injury is defined as the strong emotional and cognitive reactions following events which clash with someone’s moral code, values or expectations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased exposure to potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) has placed healthcare workers (HCWs) at risk of moral injury. Yet little is known about the lived experience of cumulative PMIE exposure and how NHS staff respond to this.

Objective

We sought to rectify this knowledge gap by qualitatively exploring the lived experiences and perspectives of clinical frontline NHS staff who responded to COVID-19.

Methods

We recruited a diverse sample of 30 clinical frontline HCWs from the NHS CHECK study cohort, for single time point qualitative interviews. All participants endorsed at least one item on the 9-item Moral Injury Events Scale (MIES) (Nash et al., 2013) at six month follow up. Interviews followed a semi-structured guide and were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

HCWs described being routinely exposed to ethical conflicts, created by exacerbations of pre-existing systemic issues including inadequate staffing and resourcing. We found that HCWs experienced a range of mental health symptoms primarily related to perceptions of institutional betrayal as well as feeling unable to fulfil their duty of care towards patients.

Conclusion

These results suggest that a multi-facetted organisational strategy is warranted to prepare for PMIE exposure, promote opportunities for resolution of symptoms associated with moral injury and prevent organisational disengagement.

Highlights

Clinical frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) have been exposed to an accumulation of potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including feeling betrayed by both government and NHS leaders as well as feeling unable to provide duty of care to patients

HCWs described the significant adverse impact of this exposure on their mental health, including increased anxiety and depression symptoms and sleep disturbance

Most HCWs interviewed believed that organisational change within the NHS was necessary to prevent excess PMIE exposure and promote resolution of moral distress
A multi-omics approach identifies a blood-based miRNA signature of cognitive decline in two large observational trials
Authors: Sadlon Angélique , Takousis Petros , Evangelou Evangelos , Prokopenko Inga , Alexopoulos Panagiotis , Udeh-Momoh Chinedu T , Price Geraint , Middleton Lefkos , Perneczky Robert ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: June 2022

Identifying individuals before the onset of overt symptoms is a key prerequisite for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A wealth of data reports dysregulated microRNA (miRNA) expression in the blood of individuals with AD, but evidence in individuals at subclinical stages is sparse. In this study, a qPCR analysis of a prioritised set of 38 candidate miRNAs in the blood of 830 healthy individuals from the CHARIOT PRO cohort (West London, UK) was undertaken. Here, we identified six differentially expressed miRNAs (hsa-miR-128-3p, hsa-miR-144-5p, hsa-miR-146a-5p, hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-29c-3p and hsa-miR-363-3p) in the blood of individuals with low cognitive performance on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). A pathway enrichment analysis for the six miRNAs indicated involvement of apoptosis and inflammation, relevant in early AD stages. Subsequently, we used whole genome sequencing (WGS) data from 750 individuals from the AD Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) to perform a genetic association analysis for polymorphisms within the significant miRNAs’ genes and CSF concentrations of phosphorylated-tau, total-tau, amyloid-β42 and soluble-TREM2 and BACE1 activity. Our analysis revealed 24 SNPs withinMIR29Cto be associated with CSF levels of amyloid-β42 and soluble-TREM2 and BACE1 activity. Our study shows the potential of a six-miRNA set as diagnostic blood biomarker of subclinical cognitive deficits in AD. Polymorphisms withinMIR29Csuggest a possible interplay between the amyloid cascade and microglial activation at preclinical stages of AD.
Neurochemistry-enriched dynamic causal models of magnetoencephalography, using magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Jafarian Amirhossein , Hughes Laura E , Adams Natalie E , Lanskey Juliette , Naessens Michelle , Rouse Matthew A , Murley Alexander G , Friston Karl J , Rowe James B
Published: June 2022

We present a hierarchical and empirical Bayesian framework for testing hypotheses about synaptic neurotransmission, based on the integration of ultra-high field magnetic resonance spectroscopy (7T-MRS) and magnetoencephalography data (MEG). A first level dynamic causal modelling of cortical microcircuits is used to infer the connectivity parameters of a generative model of individuals’ neurophysiological observations. At the second level, individuals’ 7T-MRS estimates of regional neurotransmitter concentration supply empirical priors on synaptic connectivity. We compare the group-wise evidence for alternative empirical priors, defined by monotonic functions of spectroscopic estimates, on subsets of synaptic connections. For efficiency and reproducibility, we used Bayesian model reduction (BMR), parametric empirical Bayes and variational Bayesian inversion. In particular, we used Bayesian model reduction to compare models of how spectroscopic neurotransmitter measures inform estimates of synaptic connectivity. This identifies the subset of synaptic connections that are influenced by neurotransmitter levels, as measured by 7T-MRS. We demonstrate the method using resting-state MEG (i.e., task-free recording) and 7T-MRS data from healthy adults. We perform cross-validation using split-sampling of the MEG dataset. Our results confirm the hypotheses that GABA concentration influences local recurrent inhibitory intrinsic connectivity in deep and superficial cortical layers, while glutamate influences the excitatory connections between superficial and deep layers and connections from superficial to inhibitory interneurons. The method is suitable for applications with magnetoencephalography or electroencephalography, and is well-suited to reveal the mechanisms of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including responses to psychopharmacological interventions.
De novoannotation of lncRNAHOTAIRtranscripts by long-read RNA capture-seq reveals a differentiation-driven isoform switch
Authors: Potolitsyna Evdokiia , Pickering Sarah Hazell , Tooming-Klunderud Ave , Collas Philippe , Briand Nolwenn
Published: June 2022

Background

LncRNAs are tissue-specific and emerge as important regulators of various biological processes and as disease biomarkers.HOTAIRis a well-established pro-oncogenic lncRNA which has been attributed a variety of functions in cancer and native contexts. However, a lack of an exhaustive, cell type-specific annotation questions whetherHOTAIRfunctions are supported by the expression of multiple isoforms.

Results

Using a capture long-read sequencing approach, we characterizeHOTAIRisoforms expressed in human primary adipose stem cells. We identify a highly cell type-specificHOTAIRisoform and uncover a shift in theHOTAIRisoform balance at differentiation onset. Composition of theHOTAIRisoform pool is regulated by distinct promoter usage and is under control of hormonal and nutrient-sensing pathways.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the complexity and cell type-specificity ofHOTAIRisoforms and open perspectives on functional implications of these variants and their balance to key cellular processes.
Group AStreptococcusInduces Lysosomal Dysfunction in THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Nishioka Scott T. , Snipper Joshua , Lee Jimin , Schapiro Joshua , Zhang Robert Z. , Abe Hyewon , Till Andreas , Okumura Cheryl Y.M.
Published: June 2022

The human-specific bacterial pathogen Group AStreptococcus(GAS) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Macrophages are important to control GAS infection, but previous data indicate that GAS can persist in macrophages. In this study, we detail the molecular mechanisms by which GAS survives in THP-1 macrophages. Our fluorescence microscopy studies demonstrate that GAS are readily phagocytosed by macrophages, but persist within phagolysosomes. These phagolysosomes are not acidified, which is in agreement with our findings that GAS cannot survive in low pH environments. We find that the secreted pore-forming toxin Streptolysin O (SLO) perforates the phagolysosomal membrane, allowing leakage of not only protons, but large proteins including the lysosomal protease cathepsin B. Additionally, GAS blocks the activity of vacuolar ATPase (v-ATPase) to prevent acidification of the phagolysosome. Thus, while GAS does not inhibit fusion of the lysosome with the phagosome, it has multiple mechanisms to prevent proper phagolysosome function, allowing for persistence of the bacteria within the macrophage. This has important implications for not only the initial response but the overall functionality of the macrophages, which may lead to the resulting pathologies in GAS infection. Our data suggests that therapies aimed at improving macrophage function may positively impact patient outcomes in GAS infection.
MTN-based recursive d-step-ahead predictive control of MIMO nonlinear systems with unknown input time-delay in industrial process
Authors: Yan Hong-Sen , Li Chen-Long
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a precise tracking control scheme for multi-input multi-output “MIMO” nonlinear systems with unknown input time-delay in industrial process.

Design/methodology/approach

The predictive control scheme based on multi-dimensional Taylor network (MTN) model is proposed. First, for the unknown input time-delay, the cross-correlation function is used to identify the input time-delay through just the input and output data. And then, the scheme of predictive control is designed based on the MTN model. It goes as follows: a recursive d-step-ahead MTN predictive model is developed to compensate the influence of time-delay, and the extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm is applied for its learning; the multistep predictive objective function is designed, and the optimal controlled output is determined by iterative refinement; and the convergence of MTN predictive model and the stability of closed-loop system are proved.

Findings

Simulation results show that the proposed scheme is of desirable generality and capable of performing the tracking control for MIMO nonlinear systems with unknown input time-delay in industrial process effectively, such as the continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) process, which provides a considerably improved performance and effectiveness. The proposed scheme promises strong robustness, low complexity and easy implementation.

Research limitations/implications

For the limitations of proposed scheme, the time-invariant time-delay is only considered in time-delay identification and control schemes. And the CSTR process is only introduced to prove that the proposed scheme can adapt to practical industrial scenario.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is that the proposed MTN control scheme has good tracking performance, which solves the influence of time-delay, coupling and nonlinearity and the real-time performance for MIMO nonlinear systems with unknown input time-delay.
Influence of slot profiles on the characteristics of jets
Authors: Krishnaraj Anusindhiya , Ganesan Vinayagamurthy
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to study and investigate the flow control of 0.8 Mach jet using three tab configurations. The tabs with the slots will eventually lead to generation of vortices and thus enhances the mixing characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The jet flow control is achieved by the usage of three tabs, namely, Tab A, Tab B and Tab C that are placed at the exit plane of the convergent nozzle at 180 degrees apart. Three tabs with different slot profile are designed with the same constant blockage ratio of 7.3%. The tabs produce vortices of varying sizes that directly influence and modify the jet structure, thereby enhancing the efficiency in mass entrainment and mixing. The tabs are studied numerically first and then are compared with the results of the experiments.

Findings

The results are compared with that of the results of the uncontrolled jet. For Mach 0.8 jet, Tab C is found to reduce the core length and gives reduction of 90.23%, in comparison to Tab A and Tab B, which provides 84.1% and 87.79%, respectively. The results of numerical are then compared with the centerline results obtained via experiments. With the engagement of Tabs A, B and C, the jet structure is seen to have been modified at Mach 0.8 with Tab C performing better.

Practical implications

The tabs are a passive control device that can be practically enabled in the aircraft nozzles to control the flow and even suppress the noise emanated by the jet. Tabs can be effectively used for better thrust vector control and assist in jet noise suppression. Thus, this study on tabs and its uses are important and essential in aerospace technology.

Originality/value

This particular study on mechanical slotted tabs is innovatively carried out by designing the tabs in such a way that one such has not been designed before. The slots run through the adjacent sides of the tabs which is a novelty in itself, whereas perforations made only through the opposite sides of the tabs are studied by various researchers till now. The slots in the adjacent faces modify the flow physics in such a way that it enhances mixing by the creation of turbulence because of the interaction between the main stream and the secondary jet exactly at the core. So far, such slots and profiles are not investigated. By the usage of such tabs, the flow to mix faster is much closer to the core of the jet by creating mixed size vortices and thus has higher efficiency.
Economic competitiveness and taxes
Authors: Hodges Hart , Anderson Brady Flynn
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the way competitiveness is measured matters, as well as to analyze the relationship between tax burden and economic competitiveness using a variety of model specifications.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses statistical models aimed at finding the relationship between taxes and different measures of economic competitiveness, such as gross domestic product per capita, employment and a third-party competitiveness index. Other variables are also considered, and statistical procedures such as lag specifications and “white period” errors are used to address problems of endogeneity and serial correlation.

Findings

The models find no robust relationship between taxes and competitiveness. Certain models find correlations between the tax burden of specific income groups with economic competitiveness, but these vary in direction and are difficult to interpret. This follows past research, which shows different results depending on the period analyzed, measure of competitiveness and other variables used.

Originality/value

This paper looks at many of the different measures of competitiveness, control variables and periods that are used in the previous literature and shows how any changes to these model specifications cause inconsistent results. This paper highlights that, because results can vary greatly depending on the model, researchers and policymakers must be careful when drawing any conclusions from relationships between taxes and economic competitiveness.
Frictional moment and wear modelling for incomplete spherical pistons in a spherical pump
Authors: Guan Dong , Chen Zhengrong
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Because of the specific structure and working mechanism, piston speed is only half of its shaft, which causes severally friction between piston and cylinder. Therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to investigate the friction and wear characteristics of the incomplete spherical piston in spherical pump comprehensively. Finally, to search the low-friction and wear-resistance structural pattern of the piston, and enhance the durability of spherical pump.

Design/methodology/approach

The non-linear frictional moment model for incomplete spherical piston in spherical pump was derivated quantificationally. Parameter sensitivity analyses were conducted to find the low-friction structural pattern of the piston. The theoretical wear model of piston–cylinder pair is proposed as well.

Findings

To reduce the frictional moment between incomplete piston and cylinder, the optimised diameter ratio between piston pin and piston should be 0.12 based on the parameter sensitivity analyses. The maximum frictional moment is approximately 2.5 times of the minimum. The total efficiency should be considered synthetically based on the thickness of specific working medium.

Originality/value

The proposed non-linear frictional moment model offers the quantitative estimations. Parameter sensitivity analyses were conducted to find the low-friction structural pattern of the piston. The wear behaviours of the piston and cylinder were analysed to investigate the wear characteristics of the piston.
Multi-objective optimal trajectory planning of customized industrial robot based on reliable dynamic identification for improving control accuracy
Authors: Hou Renluan , Niu Jianwei , Guo Yuliang , Ren Tao , Han Bing , Yu Xiaolong , Ma Qun , Wang Jin , Qi Renjie
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enhance control accuracy, energy efficiency and productivity of customized industrial robots by the proposed multi-objective trajectory optimization approach. To obtain accurate dynamic matching torques of the robot joints with optimal motion, an improved dynamic model built by a novel parameter identification method has been proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a novel multi-objective optimal approach to minimize the time and energy consumption of robot trajectory. First, the authors develop a reliable dynamic parameters identification method to obtain joint torques for formulating the normalized energy optimization function and dynamic constraints. Then, optimal trajectory variables are solved by converting the objective function into relaxation constraints based on second-order cone programming and Runge–Kutta discrete method to reduce the solving complexity.

Findings

Extensive experiments via simulation and in real customized robots are conducted. The results of this paper illustrate that the accuracy of joint torque predicted by the proposed model increases by 28.79% to 79.05% over the simplified models used in existing optimization studies. Meanwhile, under the same solving efficiency, the proposed optimization trajectory consumes a shorter time and less energy compared with the existing optimization ones and the polynomial trajectory.

Originality/value

A novel time-energy consumption optimal trajectory planning method based on dynamic identification is proposed. Most existing optimization methods neglect the effect of dynamic model reliability on energy efficiency optimization. A novel parameter identification approach and a complete dynamic torque model are proposed. Experimental results of dynamic matching torques verify that the control accuracy of optimal robot motion can be significantly improved by the proposed model.
The prehistoric entrepreneur: rethinking the definition
Authors: Lidow Derek Balfour
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to derive a time and place invariant definition of entrepreneurship necessary for the identification of prehistoric entrepreneurial behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The definition was derived by correlating a diverse set of archeological artifacts that could correspond to entrepreneurial activity with established anthropological and historical evidence of ancient entrepreneurial activity. The definition was formulated as a compact operational definition to ensure it could produce yes or no answers to whether specific archeological, anthropological or historical records could be associated with entrepreneurial activity.

Findings

This effort produced a unique time and place independent definition of entrepreneur that enables the identification of prehistoric entrepreneurial activity and heretofore unrealized structure of entrepreneurial activity. Specifically, entrepreneurship as defined herein predates social hierarchy, political economy, markets and pricing mechanisms. Modern definitions often inconsistently limit the scope of entrepreneurial behavior.

Research limitations/implications

This analysis was performed based upon specific, not exhaustive, sets of archeological, anthropological and historical records. Unexamined records or new discoveries could yield examples of entrepreneurial activity that transcend this definition.

Practical implications

This definition challenges how we think about, measure and model entrepreneurial impact today and opens new avenues of inquiry to understanding the social and economic impacts of entrepreneurial behavior.

Originality/value

A time and place invariant operational definition of entrepreneurship that could precisely identify entrepreneurial activity in the archeological record has not existed before. The definition enables the author to identify entrepreneurial activity among hunter-gatherers and in other locations not previously identified.
The disposition effect and its manifestations in South African investor teams
Authors: Shandu Philani , Alagidede Imhotep Paul
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The study endeavours to determine (1) whether the disposition effect exists among South African investor teams, (2) whether it is causally intensified by a set of psychosocial factors and (3) whether the disposition effect causally reduces investor welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a natural field experimentation design involving a sample of investor teams participating in the 2019 run of the JSE University Investment Challenge, the authors use regression adjustments as well as bootstrap tests to investigate the casual implications of a set of psychosocial factors on the intensity of the disposition effect, as well on the attenuation of market-adjusted ex post returns (i.e. investor welfare).

Findings

South African investor teams are susceptible to the disposition effect, and their susceptibility to the bias is associated with attenuated investor welfare. Furthermore, low female representation in an investor team causally intensifies the disposition effect, subsequently leading to a causal reduction in investor welfare.

Originality/value

Using evidence from real-world observation, the authors contribute to the literature on team gender diversity and investment decision-making, and – using Hofstede's (2001) cultural dimensions – the authors offer a comprehensive account for how differences in culture may lead to differences in gender-related disposition effects across different nationalities. The authors also introduce to the literature experimental evidence from the field that clearly demonstrates that – among South African investor teams – a causal relationship exists (1) between female representation and the disposition effect, and (2) between the disposition effect and investor welfare.
Is the future of AI sustainable? A case study of the European Union
Authors: Perucica Natasa , Andjelkovic Katarina
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to raise awareness on the need for a more comprehensive approach on the interdependence between artificial intelligence (AI) and environmental sustainability. It provides an overview of existing sustainable AI policy initiatives at the national and regional level. More precisely, it discusses whether existing European Union (EU) environmental policies are suitable for the AI era or whether new regulations are needed in this field. Finally, this paper assesses cross-fertilisation opportunities between the EU and non-EU countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a qualitative analysis of sustainable applications of AI and the sustainability of AI. Emphasis is laid on the latter, and a “sustainable by design” approach is proposed, which in essence is a prerequisite for transparent, responsible and human-centred AI systems. The analysis primarily focuses on environmental sustainability.

Findings

The majority of studies focus on how to use AI to protect the environment with very little attention paid to sustainable design of AI. On the other hand, the EU’s comprehensive approach towards sustainable AI is closest to promoting “sustainable by design” AI. Several ways have been identified in which the EU’s actions can be translated beyond its borders.

Research limitations/implications

One of the largest limitations of this study is its moderate scope. This paper is confined to the EU and as such provides a limited assessment of global policies and measures on the interplay between sustainability and AI. Consequently, the paper did not provide an in-depth analysis of environmental policies worldwide that could help provide a better picture of possible cooperation areas or common grounds. Another limitation of this study is that it primarily focuses on environmental aspects and as such accords little attention to the economic and social pillars of sustainability.

Social implications

With less than 10 years to go before reaching the sustainable development goal deadline, this study can help stakeholders better understand what is being done worldwide in terms of sustainable AI. Moreover, given that the technology is still in its early phase, this study can inspire a “sustainable by design” approach to the development of AI technologies.

Originality/value

All national AI strategies published by 1 June 2021 were analysed to identify whether and to what extent they prioritise the interplay between environment and AI. Furthermore, the authors also looked at the EU policy and how it aims to address AI from a sustainable perspective.
Considering inner and outer bark as distinctive tissues helps to disentangle the effects of bark traits on decomposition
Authors: Lin Li , Song Yao‐Bin , Li Yikang , Goudzwaard Leo , van Logtestijn Richard S. P. , Chang Chenhui , Broekman Rob , van Hal Jurgen , Zuo Juan , Sterck Frank J. , Poorter Lourens , Sass‐Klaassen Ute , Hefting Mariet M. , Cornelissen Johannes H. C.
Published: June 2022

Revealing the ecological consequences of bark multifunctionality and its underlying traits has become a relatively new but essential focus in plant ecology. Although the enormous differences between the most crucial bark layers, that is, inner and outer bark, in structure and functions have been widely recognized, the overall bark has been regarded as a homogenous tissue in most bark‐related studies. This has led to poor knowledge on the functional independence, specialized contributions and possible linkages of inner and outer bark traits across tree species when further evaluating the crucial ecosystem functions that bark provides, especially in driving variation in bark decomposition.

To fill this research gap, we used a ‘common garden experiment’ on deadwood of six gymnosperms in a temperate forest in the Netherlands over 4 years of decomposition. We evaluated the differences and associations between the inner and outer bark in initial functional traits, decomposition rates and afterlife effects of traits in driving in situ bark decomposition across tree species at the earlier decomposition stage.

We report four main findings: (1) inner and outer bark traits varied significantly and were not coordinated across tree species; (2) correspondingly, the decomposition of the inner and outer bark were asynchronous and not coordinated across species and inner bark generally decomposed faster than outer bark; (3) the strong predictive traits driving bark decomposability were bark layer‐specific, with several inner bark traits controlling inner bark decomposition rates but outer bark decomposability being poorly predicted by outer bark traits and (4) besides being controlled by inner bark traits, inner bark decomposition was also indirectly regulated by several functional traits and the structure‐related trait spectrum of outer bark.

Synthesis. This is the first study that has linked functional traits, decomposability and afterlife effects of the inner and outer bark within the bark quantitatively. We highlight the significance of separating functional traits and ecological consequences of the inner and outer bark in research in bark ecology and deadwood dynamics, rather than erroneously considering bark as a homogeneous tissue. Such research will help to better evaluate the function‐oriented contribution of bark to the turnover of forest carbon and biogeochemical cycles from local to global scale.
Understanding rural and urban perceptions of seagrass ecosystem services for their blue carbon conservation strategies in the Philippines
Authors: Quevedo Jay Mar D. , Uchiyama Yuta , Kohsaka Ryo
Published: June 2022

Seagrass meadows provide diverse ecosystem services that directly or indirectly benefit the coastal communities. Despite this, they are among the most threatened coastal ecosystems. Though coastal and marine conservation actions have progressed over the years, seagrasses received less attention compared with other more charismatic ecosystems such as coral reefs and mangroves. Among the influencing factors, the lack of societal recognition of what seagrasses are and their importance underlies the global crisis of seagrass conservation. Thus, in this study, we gathered rural and urban perceptions of seagrass ecosystem services, their threats, and management‐related activities at the unit of barangay or village in the Philippines. Overall, rural respondents displayed higher awareness of seagrass ecosystem services than urban respondents. Socio‐economic status and personal connection or direct experience to these services influenced their perceptions. Local‐level threats were also perceived and recognizing these at the early onset can avoid severe habitat degradation. Though the role of seagrass blue carbon in climate change mitigation was barely discussed in local contexts, the impact of climate change‐induced stressors on seagrass was perceived by the respondents. Thus, local stakeholders, practitioners, and policymakers have the opportunity to design future seagrass‐focused management plans and programs in the era of climate change.
Using a Multi‐Institutional Ensemble of Watershed Models to Assess Agricultural Conservation Effectiveness in a Future Climate
Authors: Kujawa Haley , Kalcic Margaret , Martin Jay , Apostel Anna , Kast Jeffrey , Murumkar Asmita , Evenson Grey , Aloysius Noel , Becker Richard , Boles Chelsie , Confesor Remegio , Dagnew Awoke , Guo Tian , Muenich Rebecca Logsdon , Redder Todd , Wang Yu‐Chen , Scavia Donald
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the combined impacts of climate change and agricultural conservation on the magnitude and uncertainty of nutrient loadings in the Maumee River Watershed, the second‐largest watershed of the Laurentian Great Lakes. Two scenarios — baseline agricultural management and increased agricultural conservation — were assessed using an ensemble of five Soil and Water Assessment Tools driven by six climate models. The increased conservation scenario included raising conservation adoption rates from a baseline of existing conservation practices to feasible rates in the near future based on farmer surveys. This increased adoption of winter cover crops on 6%–10% to 60% of cultivated cropland; subsurface placement of phosphorus fertilizers on 35%–60% to 68% of cultivated cropland; and buffer strips intercepting runoff from 29%–34% to 50% of cultivated cropland. Increased conservation resulted in statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) reductions in annual loads of total phosphorus (41%), dissolved reactive phosphorus (18%), and total nitrogen (14%) under the highest emission climate scenario (RCP 8.5). While nutrient loads decreased with increased conservation relative to baseline management for all watershed models, different conclusions on the true effectiveness of conservation under climate change may be drawn if only one watershed model was used.
Impact of fentanyl use on initiation and discontinuation of methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone among people with prescription‐type opioid use disorder: secondary analysis of a Canadian treatment trial
Authors: Socias M. Eugenia , Wood Evan , Le Foll Bernard , Lim Ron , Choi Jin Cheol , Mok Wing Yin , Bruneau Julie , Rehm Jürgen , Wild T. Cameron , Bozinoff Nikki , Hassan Ahmed , Jutras‐Aswad Didier ,   for the OPTIMA Research Group within the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse
Published: June 2022

Background and aims

Fentanyl is primarily responsible for the current phase of the overdose epidemic in North America. Despite the benefits of treatment with medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), there are limited data on the association between fentanyl, MOUD type and treatment engagement. The objectives of this analysis were to measure the impact of baseline fentanyl exposure on initiation and discontinuation of MOUD among individuals with prescription‐type opioid use disorder (POUD).

Design, setting and participants

Secondary analysis of a Canadian multi‐site randomized pragmatic trial conducted between 2017 and 2020. Of the 269 randomized participants, 65.4% were male, 67.3% self‐identified as white and 55.4% had a positive fentanyl urine drug test (UDT) at baseline. Fentanyl‐exposed participants were more likely to be younger, to self‐identify as non‐white, to be unemployed or homeless and to be currently using stimulants than non‐fentanyl‐exposed participants.

Interventions

Flexible take‐home dosing buprenorphine/naloxone or supervised methadone models of care for 24 weeks.

Measurements

Outcomes were (1) MOUD initiation and (2) time to (a) assigned and (b) overall MOUD discontinuation. Independent variables were baseline fentanyl UDT (predictor) and assigned MOUD (effect modifier).

Findings

Overall, 209 participants (77.7%) initiated MOUD. In unadjusted analyses, fentanyl exposure was associated with reduced likelihood of treatment initiation [odds ratio (OR) = 0.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.08–0.36] and shorter median times in assigned [20 versus 168 days, hazard ratio (HR) = 3.61, 95% CI = 2.52–5.17] and any MOUD (27 versus 168 days, HR = 3.32, 95% CI = 2.30–4.80). The negative effects were no longer statistically significant in adjusted models, and no interaction between fentanyl and MOUD was observed for any of the outcomes (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Both buprenorphine/naloxone and methadone may be appropriate treatment options for people with prescription‐type opioid use disorder regardless of fentanyl exposure. Other characteristics of fentanyl‐exposed individuals appear to be driving the association with poorer treatment outcomes.
Seasonality of parasitism of phorid flies (Diptera: Phoridae) in the leafcutter ant Atta sexdens Linnaeus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in an Atlantic Forest area
Authors: Pereira Renata Cunha , Bailez Omar , Vieira‐Júnior José Olívio Lopes , Silva Gerson Adriano , Viana‐Bailez Ana Maria
Published: June 2022

There is a lack of information regarding the variations in parasitism rates of parasitoid phorids for more than one year, whether they follow a pattern of distribution, and whether climatic factors affect the parasitism rates. We observed the parasitism rates caused by parasitoids of Atta sexdens and analysed whether there is seasonality in the occurrence of parasitism and studied the effects of climatic factors on parasitism rates.

Atta sexdens foragers were collected during 24 months from an area in the Atlantic Forest and the parasitism rate was calculated. Path analysis was used to identify and quantify the direct and indirect effects between parasitism rates and climatic factors.

The mean parasitism rate was 5.8%, with Apocephalus attophilus accounting for 4.2%, Eibesfeldtphora spp. 1.4% and Myrmosicarius grandicornis 0.2%. Parasitism of A. attophilus and Eibesfeldtphora spp. increased as temperature decreased. The effect of relative humidity was significant and negative on Eibesfeldtphora spp. and M. grandicornis, whereas the effect of rainfall was significant and positive on M. grandicornis.

We conclude that there is a seasonal pattern in the occurrence of parasitism by A. attophilus and that temperature is the main climatic variable associated with the fluctuation of parasitism, where the peaks occur in winter, followed by spring and autumn, and the lowest rates were in the summer.
Resequencing the Yaroslavl cattle genomes reveals signatures of selection and a rare haplotype on BTA28 likely to be related to breed phenotypes
Authors: Ruvinskiy Daniil , Igoshin Alexander , Yurchenko Andrey , Ilina Anna V. , Larkin Denis M.
Published: June 2022

The genomes of local livestock could shed light on their genetic history, mechanisms of adaptations to environments and unique genetics. Herein we look into the genetics and adaptations of the Russian native dairy Yaroslavl cattle breed using 22 resequenced individuals and comparing them with two related breeds (Russian Kholmogory and Holstein), and to the taurine set of the 1000 Bull Genomes Project (Run 9). HapFLK analysis with Kholmogory and Holstein breeds (using Yakut cattle as outgroup) resulted in 22 regions under selection (q‐value < 0.01) on 11 chromosomes assigned to Yaroslavl cattle, including a strong signature of selection in the region of the KIT gene on BTA6. The FST (fixation index) with the 1000 Bull Genomes Dataset showed 48 non‐overlapping top (0.1%) FST regions of which three overlapped HapFLK regions. We identified 1982 highly differentiated (FST > 0.40) missense mutations in the Yaroslavl genomes. These genes were enriched in the epidermal growth factor and calcium‐binding functional categories. The top FST intervals contained eight genes with allele frequencies quite different between the Yaroslavl and Kholmogory breeds and the rest of the 1000 Bull Genomes Dataset, including KAT6B, which had a nearly Yaroslavl breed‐specific deleterious missense mutation with the highest FST in our dataset (0.99). This gene is a part of a long haplotype containing other genes from FST and hapFLK analyses and with a negative association with weight and carcass traits according to the genotyping of 30 phenotyped Yaroslavl cattle individuals. Our work provides the industry with candidate genetic variants to be focused on in breed improvement efforts.
Novel predictive risk factor for erectile dysfunction: Serum high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein
Authors: Liu Guodong , Zhang Yuyang , Zhang Wei , Wu Xu , Jiang Hui , Huang Houbao , Zhang Xiansheng
Published: June 2022

Background

C‐reactive protein (CRP), as a marker of inflammation, may be closely related to erectile dysfunction (ED), however, there is no meta‐analysis exists for it.

Objectives

We aimed to verify the relationship between CRP and erectile dysfunction and to explore the changes of CRP levels in ED patients after first‐line treatment.

Materials and methods

We searched databases including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and MEDLINE to identify studies up to January 1, 2022. We performed a comprehensive analysis of the included studies by STATA software and calculated standardized mean differences (SMDs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 12 studies were included and the analysis showed that CRP levels were higher significantly in patients with erectile dysfunction than the healthy controls (p < 0.001) and decreased by a mean of 0.38 mg/L after first‐line PDE5i drug treatment (p = 0.001).

Discussion and conclusion

This novel meta‐analysis suggests that CRP is statistically significantly associated with erectile dysfunction and may be a predictor or risk factor for the assessment of ED. However, further original studies with large sample sizes are needed to validate this.