bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No sex differences in adult telomere length across vertebrates: a meta-analysis
Authors: Remot Florentin , Ronget Victor , Froy Hannah , Rey Benjamin , Gaillard Jean-Michel , Nussey Daniel H. , Lemaître Jean-François
Published: November 2020

In many mammalian species, females live on average longer than males. In humans, women have consistently longer telomeres than men, and this has led to speculation that sex differences in telomere length (TL) could play a role in sex differences in longevity. To address the generality and drivers of patterns of sex differences in TL across vertebrates, we performed meta-analyses across 51 species. We tested two main evolutionary hypotheses proposed to explain sex differences in TL, namely the heterogametic sex disadvantage and the sexual selection hypotheses. We found no support for consistent sex differences in TL between males and females among mammal, bird, fish and reptile species. This absence of sex differences in TL across different classes of vertebrates does not support the heterogametic sex disadvantage hypothesis. Likewise, the absence of any negative effect of sexual size dimorphism on male TL suggests that sexual selection is not likely to mediate the magnitude of sex differences in TL across vertebrates. Finally, the comparative analyses we conducted did not detect any association between sex differences in TL and sex differences in longevity, which does not support the idea that sex differences in TL could explain the observed sex differences in longevity.
Electrostatics and domains in ferroelectric superlattices
Authors: Bennett Daniel , Muñoz Basagoiti Maitane , Artacho Emilio
Published: November 2020

The electrostatics arising in ferroelectric/dielectric two-dimensional heterostructures and superlattices is revisited within a Kittel model in order to define and complete a clear paradigmatic reference for domain formation. The screening of the depolarizing field in isolated ferroelectric or polar thin films via the formation of 180° domains is well understood, where the width of the domains
w
grows as the square-root of the film thickness
d
, following Kittel’s Law for thick enough films (
w
≪
d
). For thinner films, a minimum is reached for
w
before diverging to a monodomain. Although this behaviour is known to be qualitatively unaltered when the dielectric environment of the film is modified, we consider the quantitative changes in that behaviour induced on the ferroelectric film by different dielectric settings: as deposited on a dielectric substrate, sandwiched between dielectrics, and in a superlattice of alternating ferroelectric/dielectric films. The model assumes infinitely thin domain walls, and therefore is not expected to be reliable for film thickness in the nanometre scale. The polarization field P(r) does vary in space, deviating from ±
P

S

, following the depolarizing field in linear response, but the model does not include a polarization-gradient term as would appear in a Ginzburg–Landau free energy. The model is, however, worth characterizing, both as paradigmatic reference, and as applicable to not-so-thin films. The correct renormalization of parameters is obtained for the thick-film square-root behaviour in the mentioned settings, and the sub-Kittel regime is fully characterized. New results are presented alongside well-known ones for a comprehensive description. Among the former, a natural separation between strong and weak ferroelectric coupling in superlattices is found, which depends exclusively on the dielectric anisotropy of the ferroelectric layer.
Identities for droplets with circular footprint on tilted surfaces
Authors: Dunlop François , Fatollahi Amir H. , Hajirahimi Maryam , Huillet Thierry
Published: November 2020

Exact mathematical identities are presented between the relevant parameters of droplets displaying circular contact boundary based on flat tilted surfaces. Two of the identities are derived from the force balance, and one from the torque balance. The tilt surfaces cover the full range of inclinations for sessile or pendant drops, including the intermediate case of droplets on a wall (vertical surface). The identities are put under test both by the available solutions of a linear response approximation at small Bond numbers as well as the ones obtained from numerical solutions, making use of the
Surface Evolver
software. The subtleties to obtain certain angle-averages appearing in identities by the numerical solutions are discussed in detail. It is argued how the identities are useful in two respects. First is to replace some unknown values in the Young–Laplace equation by their expressions obtained from the identities. Second is to use the identities to estimate the error for approximate analytical or numerical solutions without any reference to an exact solution.
Microtubule-based actin transport and localization in a spherical cell
Authors: Saltini Marco , Mulder Bela M.
Published: November 2020

The interaction between actin filaments and microtubules is crucial for many eukaryotic cellular processes, such as, among others, cell polarization, cell motility and cellular wound healing. The importance of this interaction has long been recognized, yet very little is understood about both the underlying mechanisms and the consequences for the spatial (re)organization of the cellular cytoskeleton. At the same time, understanding the causes and the consequences of the interaction between different biomolecular components are key questions for
in vitro
research involving reconstituted biomolecular systems, especially in the light of current interest in creating minimal synthetic cells. In this light, recent
in vitro
experiments have shown that the actin-microtubule interaction mediated by the cytolinker TipAct, which binds to actin lattice and microtubule tips, causes the directed transport of actin filaments. We develop an analytical theory of dynamically unstable microtubules, nucleated from the centre of a spherical cell, in interaction with actin filaments. We show that, depending on the balance between the diffusion of unbound actin filaments and propensity to bind microtubules, actin is either concentrated in the centre of the cell, where the density of microtubules is highest, or becomes localized to the cell cortex.
A Bayesian Nonparametric Model for Inferring Subclonal Populations from Structured DNA Sequencing Data
Authors: He Shai , Schein Aaron , Sarsani Vishal , Flaherty Patrick
Published: November 2020

There are distinguishing features or “hallmarks” of cancer that are found across tumors, individuals, and types of cancer, and these hallmarks can be driven by specific genetic mutations. Yet, within a single tumor there is often extensive genetic heterogeneity as evidenced by single-cell and bulk DNA sequencing data. The goal of this work is to jointly infer the underlying genotypes of tumor subpopulations and the distribution of those subpopulations in individual tumors by integrating single-cell and bulk sequencing data. Understanding the genetic composition of the tumor at the time of treatment is important in the personalized design of targeted therapeutic combinations and monitoring for possible recurrence after treatment.

We propose a hierarchical Dirichlet process mixture model that incorporates the correlation structure induced by a structured sampling arrangement and we show that this model improves the quality of inference. We develop a representation of the hierarchical Dirichlet process prior as a Gamma-Poisson hierarchy and we use this representation to derive a fast Gibbs sampling inference algorithm using the augment-and-marginalize method. Experiments with simulation data show that our model outperforms standard numerical and statistical methods for decomposing admixed count data. Analyses of real acute lymphoblastic leukemia cancer sequencing dataset shows that our model improves upon state-of-the-art bioinformatic methods. An interpretation of the results of our model on this real dataset reveals co-mutated loci across samples.
Effect of alleviating fibrosis with EGCG-modified bone graft in murine model depended on less accumulation of inflammatory macrophage
Authors: Yao Dengbo , Jin Song
Published: November 2020

In response to current trends in the modification of guided bone regeneration (GBR) materials, we aimed to build upon our previous studies on epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) by immersing a commonly used bone graft primarily composed of hydroxyapatite (HA) in EGCG solution, expecting to obtain superior bone–material integration after implantation. Bone grafts are commonly used for bone repair, in which the bone extracellular matrix is stimulated to promote osteogenesis. However, due to its pro-fibrosis effect, this osteoconductive material commonly exhibits implant failure. In addition to providing a basic release profile of EGCG-modified bone graft (E-HA) to clarify the relationship between this material and the environment, we have examined the integration effect via subcutaneous implantation experiments. In this manner, we have assessed the aggregation of pro-inflammatory macrophages, initial angiogenesis, the formation of fibrous capsules, and an enhanced cell viability observed in cultured RAW 264.7 cells. Among these results, we focus on pro-inflammatory macrophages due to their close relationship with fibrosis, which is the most important process in the immune response. Immunofluorescent staining results showed that E-HA substantially compromised the formation of fibrous capsules in hematoxylin-eosin-stained sections, which exhibited less pro-inflammatory macrophage recruitment; meanwhile, the cell viability and primary angiogenesis were improved. This work lays the foundation for future studies on GBR.
Bistable State Switch Enables Ultrasensitive Feedback Control in Heterogeneous Microbial Populations
Authors: Ren Xinying , Samaniego Christian Cuba , Murray Richard M. , Franco Elisa
Published: November 2020

Molecular feedback control circuits can improve robustness of gene expression at the single cell-level. This achievement can be offset by requirements of rapid protein expression, that may induce cellular stress, known as burden, that reduces colony growth. To begin to address this challenge we take inspiration by ‘division-of-labor’ in heterogeneous cell populations: we propose to combine bistable switches and quorum sensing systems to coordinate gene expression at the population-level. We show that bistable switches in individual cells operating in parallel yield an ultrasensitive response, while cells maintain heterogeneous levels of gene expression to avoid burden across all cells. Within a feedback loop, these switches can achieve robust reference tracking and adaptation to disturbances at the population-level. We also demonstrate that molecular sequestration enables tunable hysteresis in individual switches, making it possible to obtain a wide range of stable population-level expressions.
Age- and sex- dependent changes in locus coeruleus physiology and anxiety-like behavior in response to acute stress
Authors: Borodovitsyna Olga , Chandler Daniel J
Published: November 2020

Adolescence is a critical period of development with increased sensitivity toward psychological stressors. Many psychiatric conditions emerge during adolescence and animal studies have shown that that acute stress has long-term effects on hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis function and behavior. We recently demonstrated that acute stress produces long-term electrophysiological changes in locus coeruleus and long-lasting anxiety-like behavior in adolescent male rats. Based on prior reports of increased stress sensitivity during adolescence and increased sensitivity of female locus coeruleus toward corticotropin releasing factor, we hypothesized that the same acute stressor would cause different behavioral and physiological responses in adolescent female and adult male rats one week after stressor exposure. In this study, we assessed age and sex differences in how an acute psychological stressor affects corticosterone release, anxiety-like behavior, and locus coeruleus physiology at short- and long-term intervals. All groups of animals responded to stress with elevated corticosterone levels at the acute time point. One week after stressor exposure, adolescent females showed decreased firing of locus coeruleus neurons upon current injection and increased exploratory behavior compared to controls. The results were in direct contrast to changes observed in adolescent males, which showed increased anxiety-like behavior and increased spontaneous and induced firing locus coeruleus neurons a week after stressor exposure. Adult males were both behaviorally and electrophysiologically resilient to the long-term effects of acute stress. Therefore, there may be a normal developmental trajectory for locus coeruleus neurons which promotes stress resilience in adults, but stressor exposure during adolescence perturbs their function. Furthermore, while locus coeruleus neurons are more sensitive to stressor exposure during adolescence, the effect varies between adolescent males and females. These findings suggest that endocrine, behavioral, and physiological responses to stress vary among animals of different age and sex, and therefore these variables should be taken into account when selecting models and designing experiments to investigate the effects of stress. These differences in animals may also allude to age and sex differences in the prevalence of various psychiatric illnesses within the human population.
The evolution of stomatal traits along the trajectory towards C4photosynthesis
Authors: Zhao Yong-Yao , Lyu Mingju Amy , Miao FenFen , Chen Genyun , Zhu Xin-Guang
Published: November 2020

C4photosynthesis optimizes plants carbon and water relations, allowing high photosynthetic rate with low stomatal conductance. Stomata have long been believed as a part of C4syndrome. However, it remains unclear how stomata traits evolved along the path from C3to C4. Stomatal patterning was examined inFlaveriagenus, a model for studying C4evolution. Comparative, transgenic and semi-in-vitroexperiments were used to study molecular basis that underlies stomatal traits along C4evolution. Novel results: the evolution from C3to C4species through intermediate species is accompanied by a stepwise rather than an abrupt change in the stomatal traits. The initial change occurs near Type II and dramatic change occurs at the C4-like species. On the road to C4, stomata become less in number but bigger in size and changes in stomatal density dominates changes in maximum stomatal conductance (gsmax). The reduction ofFSTOMAGENexpression underlies alteredgsmaxbetweenFlaveriaspecies with different photosynthetic pathways and likely occurs in other C4lineages. Our study provides insight into the pattern, mechanism and role of stomatal evolution along the road towards C4. This work highlights the stomatal traits in the current C4evolutionary model and the co-evolution of photosynthetic pathway and stomata.
Magnetoelectric effect in hybrid composite material
Authors: Mech Rafal
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Investigations over new types of materials as a potential power source for different types of devices were raised dramatically in the last few years. It is connected especially with global needs and that most of the devices in our world need electricity to work. In this paper, an investigation on magnetoelectric effect in the magnetostrictive-piezoelectric composite material is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

An author's research setup for investigation of magnetoelectric effect in the developed novel material was prepared. The new composite material was made of magnetostrictive particles of Terfenol-D and lead zirconium titanate (PZT) material.

Findings

Obtained results show that changes in an electric voltage output from the prepared material are highly dependent on the changes in external magnetic field. It was found out that rate of changes of magnetic field around composite material is one of the most important factors which has influence on the magnetoelectric effect. Taking into account the obtained results, it was proven that prepared hybrid material shows magnetoelectric effect in the case of work in alternating magnetic field.

Originality/value

This phenomenon might be used in a field of energy harvesting as potential power source for devices with low power consumption. Moreover, this new material gives an opportunity to be used as an additional gauge for determination of deformation or crack propagation in the samples during fatigue tests.
Application of text mining in identifying the factors of supply chain financing risk management
Authors: Ying Hao , Chen Lujie , Zhao Xiande
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to clarify the risk management practices of banks as supply chain finance (SCF) service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

Using 4,014 evaluation and approval reports, this study constructed five risk management factors and examined their functions with secondary data. Two text-mining techniques (i.e. word sense induction, TF–IDF) were used to equip the classic routine of dictionary-based content analysis.

Findings

This research successfully identified four important risk management factors: relationship-based assessment, asset monitoring, cash flow monitoring and supply chain collaboration. The default-preventing effect of these factors are different and contingent on the type of financing contexts (i.e. preshipment, postshipment).

Practical implications

The empirical evidences provide practical implications for SCF service providers to manage risk. SCF service providers are suggested to pay more attention to cash flow monitoring when providing postshipment financing services and shift the focus to relationship building and supply chain collaboration when providing preshipment financing services.

Originality/value

The study shows that a large volume of textual materials can provide adequate clues for researches as long as they are mined with suitable analytic techniques and approaches. Based on the results, SCF service providers can identify problems of their operations and directions for improvement. In addition, the risk management vocabulary from the E&A reports can be utilized by SCF service providers to digitize their loan approving process and, further, to facilitate the decision-makings.
Health hazard of using mosquito repellent in Khulna city, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Muniva , Haider Mohammed Ziaul , Halim Sk. Faijan Bin
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study examines mosquito-borne diseases and health hazard of using mosquito repellents in Bangladesh. This study also targets to explore the use of different mosquito repellents and associated health hazard between slum and residential people.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has applied a stratified systematic sampling technique taking 120 adult individuals from residential and slum areas covering users and non-users of mosquito repellents of Khulna city, Bangladesh. A structured questionnaire has been used to collect data from respondents.

Findings

Econometric techniques are exercised to examine the occurrence, severity and duration of different respiratory diseases. Results exhibit that poor and less-educated slum people are more prone to face respiratory diseases compared to residential people. The health cost of slum and residential people is estimated US$ 134 and US$ 9, respectively.

Practical implications

Relevant stakeholders under public health programs should spread awareness among people regarding the negative health effect of using mosquito repellent, encourage them to limit the use of harmful repellent and instead use herbal product (neem coil), avoid using repellent in living room rather use outside of room and close window and use proper bed net at night.

Originality/value

This study underpins arranging public health programs and taking averting actions as an impetus to raise consciousness toward the negative health effect of using mosquito repellents.
Empathy as an essential skill for talent development consultants
Authors: Helens-Hart Rose , Engstrom Craig
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to present empathy as an ideal characteristic of consultants for talent development (CTD). It provides a contextualized look at how empathy manifests in CTD practice and offers practical guidance for improving CTD empathy skills, and thus their performance in the corporate classroom.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 34 interviews with talent development professionals were analyzed using a qualitative coding process.

Findings

Apart from functional and industry knowledge, a collection of soft skill themes emerged from the analysis, including active listening, perspective taking, audience adaptation and communication style. These themes coalesced around the construct of empathy and provided a framework with which to understand how empathy is expressed and leveraged in talent development consulting.

Originality/value

While business research has explored the importance of empathy in some workplaces, to the knowledge, this is the first study focusing on the empathy of CTDs. In addition, literature paints a fractured and anecdotal picture of soft skills for the ideal consultant. This research helps CTDs, those who hire them and business educators target essential skills for facilitating workplace learning.
Choosing murabahah to the purchase orderer (MPO) vehicle financing: an Islamic theory of consumer behaviour perspective
Authors: Amin Hanudin
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects of Islamic altruism, level of iman and maqasid consumer index on young intellectuals’ willingness to choose murabahah to the purchase orderer (MPO) vehicle financing. Besides, the role of the level of iman or faith as a mediator is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Earlier studies have reported the limited application of the Islamic theory of consumer behaviour (ITCB) to the vehicle financing context. This lack of theoretical foundation might provide a potential explanation for the mixed empirical support that has been found. This study, therefore, uses the ITCB to study young intellectuals’ willingness to take up the facility. The data were analysed using partial least squares based on 312 respondents.

Findings

The results obtained from this study confirm that the ITCB should be applied to understand the willingness behaviour amongst young graduates in selecting MPO vehicle financing. The level of iman was found a key factor not only as an independent variable but also as a mediator.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited in terms of its generalisation and research context.

Practical implications

New insight into patronage factors for MPO vehicle financing is provided along with the applicability outcome of the ITCB.

Originality/value

This paper applies the ITCB into the MPO vehicle financing context and using young intellectuals to examine the validity and reliability of the ITCB.
The need for accounting-integrated data streams for scenario-based planning in primary production: responding to COVID-19 and other crises
Authors: Tingey-Holyoak Joanne Louise , Pisaniello John Dean
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore the need for improved data sources and models for COVID-19 and climate-related risk scenario analysis in primary production. The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting global markets for agricultural produce, making short-term forecasting highly uncertain. Meanwhile climate-related risk continues for agricultural businesses. Farmers and their accountants need to plan and make estimates about the potential effect of COVID-19 and ongoing climate risks to their natural and financial capital and so they need accounting-integrated biophysical and socio-economic data streams.

Design/methodology/approach

This research note reviews the current state of scenario-based planning for COVID-19 and other risks for Australian businesses generally, in addition to planning for farming businesses more specifically. Discussion of the authors’ current research in integrating accounting and farming data for water-related risk caused by climate and other challenges is presented as an analogous case.

Findings

Review and analogous case comparison demonstrate the need for farm data to be integrated more efficiently and effectively with accounting data for accurate scenario planning for COVID-19 and other risks, including those posed by climate.

Practical implications

While not strangers to the need for scenario analysis, given exposure to ever-increasing natural resource and climate variability, this research note highlights how primary producers and their accountants require increased accounting-integrated farm data and systems to make judgements, assumptions and estimates about the potential effect of COVID-19 and ongoing climate risks to their business.

Social implications

The sustainability of the agricultural sector is of great relevance to all of us and so the development of tools and resources that can assist food producers in times of ongoing climate pressures and new crises, such as COVID-19, is important. Better understanding of such risks can help farm businesses develop effective strategies which minimise the potential loss of agricultural value resulting in improved flows of greater capital value for society.

Originality/value

Through application to the analogous case of water-related risk and decision-making, the research note demonstrates that linking of biophysical and accounting data streams will be essential for evidence-backed numbers included in scenario plans with enough legitimacy to be interrogated inside and outside of the business. The “best estimate of the directors” is no longer enough in challenging socio-economic and biophysical times ahead for primary producers.
Food cold chain management: what we know and what we deserve
Authors: Shashi Shashi , Centobelli Piera , Cerchione Roberto , Ertz Myriam
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a quantitatively supported explanation of the intellectual development, the schools of thought and the sub-areas of the food cold chain (FCC) research to derive meaningful avenues for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study builds on bibliometric analysis and network analysis to systematically evaluate a sample of 1,189 FCC articles published over the past 25 years. The descriptive statistics and science mapping approaches using co-citation analysis were performed with VOSviewer software.

Findings

The findings reveal a state-of-the-art overview of the top contributing and influential countries, authors, institutions and articles in the area of FCC research. A co-citation analysis, coupled with content analysis of most co-cited articles, uncovered four underlying research streams including: application of RFID technologies; production and operation planning models; postharvest waste, causes of postharvest wastage and perishable inventory ordering polices and models; and critical issues in FCC. Current research streams, clusters and their sub-themes provided meaningful discussions and insights into key areas for future research in FCC.

Originality/value

This study might reshape practitioners’, researchers’ and policy-makers’ views on the multifaceted areas and themes in the FCC research field, to harness FCC’s benefits at both strategic and tactical level. Finally, the research findings offer a roadmap for additional research to yield more practical and modeling insights that are much needed to enrich the field.
High-precision width measurement method of laser profile sensor
Authors: Feng Yu , Tao Wei , Feng Yiyang , Yin Xiaoqia , Lv Na , Zhao Hui
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Although a laser profile sensor (LPS) can be used to measure dimensions, the “shadow region” generally degrades the accuracy and precision of width measurements. The accuracy and precision of such measurements should be improved.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors propose herein a technique that combines high dynamic range (HDR) imaging with logistic fitting. First, a HDR image is composed of several images acquired with different exposure times, which augments the grayscale of the object profile and significantly reduces overexposure. Next, the profile is fit to a logistic function, which provides accurate and precise edge coordinates. Finally, given the edge coordinates, the object width is calculated.

Findings

To verify the stability of this logistic algorithm, the authors simulate different noise conditions and different degrees of incomplete edge data. In addition, the progressiveness of the algorithm is demonstrated by comparing the results with those of other algorithms and with the height measurement. Furthermore, the suitability of the system is verified experimentally.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the limitation of the condition of laboratory, in the experimental section, this paper cannot represent perfectly the industrial situation. It makes this section limited in demonstration.

Originality/value

In this paper, the results show that the measurement accuracy and precision of the width is improved and exceeds that of the height measurement. The proposed HDR imaging method with logistic fitting may be applied to LPS width measurements, which should significantly aid the development of LPSs.
Bovine β‐lactoglobulin peptides as novel carriers for flavonoids extracted with supercritical fluids from yellow onion skins
Authors: Milea Ștefania Adelina , Aprodu Iuliana , Mihalcea Liliana , Enachi Elena , Bolea Carmen Alina , Râpeanu Gabriela , Bahrim Gabriela Elena , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: November 2020

Our study describes in detail the binding mechanism between the main flavonoids that were extracted from onion skins by supercritical CO2 and peptides from whey proteins, from the perspective of obtaining multifunctional ingredients, with health‐promoting benefits. The supercritical CO2 extract had 202.31 ± 11.56 mg quercetin equivalents/g DW as the major flavonoid and antioxidant activity of 404.93±1.39 mM Trolox/g DW. The experiments on thermolysin‐derived peptides fluorescence quenching by flavonoids extract allowed estimating the binding parameters, in terms of binding constants, and the number of binding sites. The thermodynamic analysis indicated that the main forces involved in complex formation were hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions. Molecular docking tests indicated that peptide fluorescence quenching upon gradual addition of onion skin extract might be due to flavonoids binding by Val15‐Ser21. All 7 to 14 amino acids long peptides appeared to have affinity toward quercetin‐3,4’‐O‐diglucoside and quercetin‐4’‐O‐monoglucoside. The study is important as a potential solution for reuse of valuable resources, underutilized, such as whey peptides and yellow onion skins flavonoids for efficient microencapsulation, as a holistic approach to deliver healthy and nutritious food.

Practical Application

A growing interest was noticed in the last years in investigating the interactions between proteins and different biologically active compounds, such as to provide knowledge for efficient development of new food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products. Recent studies suggest that flavonoid–protein complexes may be designed to improve the functional performance of the flavonoids. The results obtained in this study bring certain benefits in terms of exploiting the bioactive potential of both flavonoids and bioactive peptides, for developing of formulas with improved functional properties.
Anti‐PD‐1 therapy plus chemotherapy showed superior and durable survival benefit in a patient with small cell esophageal cancer: A case report
Authors: Ren Wei , Wu Puyuan , Tian Jing , Chen Dongsheng , Li Si , Liu Baorui
Published: November 2020

The prognosis of the small cell esophageal cancer (SCEC) patient in our study was poor due to lack of treatment options which were limited to surgery and chemotherapies, with a median overall survival (OS) of only 11.1 months according to previous studies. Herein, we adopted the regimen of immunotherapy plus chemotherapy, which exerted superior and durable benefit (OS > 19 months) in the patient in our study. Immunotherapy plus chemotherapy might therefore be a reasonable option for selected SCEC patients. In addition, well‐designed trials for better evidence are required to verify the findings in this study.
A prospective study of epidemiology characteristics and outcomes of bloodstream infections in older patients
Authors: Moschou Aikaterini , Ioannou Petros , Maraki Sofia , Koutroumpakis Filippos , Mamaloukaki Maria , Bikis Charalampos , Samonis George , Papadakis John A. , Kofteridis Diamantis P.
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of bloodstream infections (BSIs) in older patients and describe the differences between community‐acquired, hospital‐acquired and health care–associated BSIs.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted at the University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. Epidemiology, clinical characteristics and outcomes of BSIs were recorded.

Results

During a four‐year period, 113 BSIs were recorded. Of them, 42% occurred in male patients; patients’ mean age was 80 years. BSIs were community‐acquired in 76% of patients, hospital‐acquired in 12% and health care–associated in 12%. The most commonly isolated bacteria were E coli and K pneumoniae. Thirty‐day mortality from detection of BSIs was 27%. Patients with fever, without septic shock and with appropriate empirical treatment were less likely to die.

Conclusion

Community‐acquired, health care–associated and hospital‐acquired BSIs had different presentation, microbiology and outcomes. Older patients had a high mortality. The absence of fever, inappropriate empirical treatment and septic shock were independent mortality predictors.
Bone morphogenetic protein‐2 enhances gonadotropin‐independent follicular development via sphingosine kinase 1
Authors: Ito Masami , Yoshino Osamu , Ono Yosuke , Yamaki‐Ushijima Akemi , Tanaka Tomoko , Shima Tomoko , Orisaka Makoto , Iwase Akira , Nakashima Akitoshi , Saito Shigeru
Published: November 2020

Problem

Pre‐ovulatory mature follicles are not readily induced from gonadotropin (Gn)‐independent early follicles in the poor ovarian response (POR) state, characterized by reduced number of retrieved oocytes. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), which is expressed in the ovary, contributes to early folliculogenesis, but its precise underlying mechanism remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of BMP‐2 on granulosa cells (GCs) of Gn‐independent early follicles.

Method of study

Sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1) localization, which produces sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P), was examined in human early follicles by immunohistochemistry. SPHK1 mRNA levels were examined in Gn‐independent bovine GCs (bGCs) and human nonluteinized granulosa cell line (HGrC1) cells. Phosphorylated Yes‐associated protein (YAP) expression was evaluated by Western blot, and its localization was evaluated immunocytochemically in bGCs. Verteporfin, a selective YAP inhibitor, was used to explore the influence of YAP on BMP‐2‐induced bGCs proliferation.

Results

The expression of SPHK1 was observed in human GCs of primary and secondary follicles. BMP‐2 significantly induced SPHK1 mRNA expression in bGCs and HGrC1 cells. Both BMP‐2 and S1P decreased phosphorylated YAP protein levels and induced the nuclear translocation of YAP significantly, thereby increasing the number of bGCs by suppressing the Hippo pathway. This BMP‐2‐induced cell proliferation was completely blocked by verteporfin.

Conclusion

This is a first report showing that BMP‐2 up‐regulated SPHK1 mRNA expression in GCs and promoted GCs proliferation through Hippo pathway suppression. Thus, BMP‐2 contributes to Gn‐independent folliculogenesis via SPHK1, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for the POR patients with follicular dysgenesis.
Patterns of arterial involvement and feasibility of revascularization in thromboangiitis obliterans: a tertiary care centre experience
Authors: Dsouza Royson J. , Premkumar Prabhu , Samuel Vimalin , Kota Albert , Agarwal Sunil
Published: November 2020

Background

Arterial revascularization is seldom considered as a treatment option in thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) due to diffuse segmental involvement of medium‐ and small‐sized extremity vessels. Although typical angiographic features include bilaterally symmetrical involvement of infrapopliteal vessels, larger vessels too can be affected. Similarly, there could be distal target vessels feasible for revascularization. This study was conducted to describe the patterns of arterial involvement in TAO and assess the feasibility of revascularization.

Methods

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board and research ethics committee of Christian Medical College, Vellore (IRB no: 12034). A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Vascular Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India, between January 2009 and December 2018. There were 329 patients who fulfilled the clinical criteria for TAO of whom 83 had an angiogram done. These 83 patients formed the study cohort.

Results

Large vessel involvement was seen in 56.6% of patients and 79.5% of patients had at least one or more distal target artery feasible for revascularization. The anterior tibial artery and peroneal artery were the most common target vessels that were patent for revascularization. Of the 22 patients who underwent revascularization (16 bypasses and six angioplasties), the patency rate was 64.8% and the limb salvage rate was 80.9% at the end of 6 months.

Conclusion

The study shows that one‐third of our patients with TAO have a distal target artery feasible for revascularization. As most of the affected patients are in the economically productive age group, every attempt should be made to salvage the limb with revascularization for which the use of angiography should be more liberal.
From colonization to reconciliation: Increasing the collaborative capacity of public servants
Authors: Lachance Nathalie , Rose Teresa
Published: November 2020

In call to action 57, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission calls upon federal, provincial and territorial governments to enhance the skills and knowledge of public servants. Leveraging collaboration theory and collaborative capacity, this article delves deeper into the skills, attitudes and knowledge required of public servants who regularly work with First Nations organizations and governments. Using findings from a health care collaboration between First Nations, federal and provincial governments in Alberta with 25 mid‐ to senior‐level leaders, this participatory action research highlights the importance of member capacity to strong collaboration as Canada embarks on the journey from colonization to reconciliation.
Characteristics and frequency distribution of bone defect configurations in peri‐implantitis lesions—A series of 193 cases
Authors: Wehner Christian , Bertl Kristina , Durstberger Gerlinde , Arnhart Christoph , Rausch‐Fan Xiaohui , Stavropoulos Andreas
Published: November 2020

Background

Knowledge on peri‐implantitis bone defect characteristics and predictors is still limited.

Purpose

To describe peri‐implantitis bone defect characteristics and identify possible predictors.

Methods

Various parameters at patient‐ (age, gender, smoking, and supra‐structure), implant‐ (surface, type, connection, platform, and misfit), and site level (region, alveolar ridge position, defect characteristics, neighboring structure) were recorded retrospectively.

Results

Among 193 implants, the most prevalent defects were class Ic (25.4%), and Id (23.8%); a previously non‐described category “class Id with only one bone wall” was frequently observed (11.9%). Mean intrabony defect depth and width ranged from 4.5 to 6.2 mm and from 2.7 to 2.9 mm, respectively; mean dehiscence extent ranged from 2.8 to 7.0 mm. A total of 37.8% of the defects presented horizontal bone loss and an intrabony component; in 52.7% of the implants, total defect extent was >6 mm. Jaw region, implant position within the alveolar ridge, and implant/abutment misfit showed significant associations either to defect configuration and/or defect extent.

Conclusion

(a) Most common peri‐implantitis defects exhibited a combination of intrabony component and a buccal/oral dehiscence, while purely circumferential defects were relatively seldom; (b) implants with defects with bone dehiscence were placed more frequently closer to the lateral aspect of the ridge harboring the dehiscence; (c) implants placed in the lower anterior region had the highest risk for more severe peri‐implant bone loss; and (d) peri‐implant bone defects with only a single bone wall appropriate for regenerative procedure were relatively frequent.
Role of specific IgE on staphylococcal enterotoxin B in chronic rhinosinusitis severity
Authors: Chang Suk Won , Park Jeong Jin , Hwang Chi Sang , Nam Jae Sung , Ha Jong‐Gyun , Almarzouq Wasan F. , Kim Chang‐Hoon , Yoon Joo‐Heon , Cho Hyung‐Ju
Published: November 2020

Objective

To investigate the clinical significance of specific IgE‐staphylococcal enterotoxin B (IgE‐SEB) in CRS (chronic rhinosinusitis).

Design

Retrospective analysis of patients who were positive for specific IgE‐staphylococcal enterotoxin B.

Setting

Tertiary rhinology clinic.

Participants

A total of 965 patients who were tested for specific IgE‐staphylococcal enterotoxin B from December 2016 to December 2017.

Main outcome measures

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 965 patients who were tested for specific IgE‐staphylococcal enterotoxin B from December 2016 to December 2017. Patient demographics, titre‐specific IgE to staphylococcal enterotoxin B levels, MAST, serologic test and medical records were reviewed.

Results

IgE‐SEB (KU/L) was higher in CRS patients than non‐CRS patients (0.13 ± 0.37 vs 0.08 ± 0.22, respectively; P‐value: .044), and the IgE‐SEB (+, ≥0.35) rate was also higher (10.06% vs 4.46%, respectively; P‐value: .030). IgE‐SEB (KU/L) was higher in the CRS group than in the fungal sinusitis group (0.13 ± 0.37 vs 0.03 ± 0.05, respectively; P‐value: <.001), and the IgE‐SEB (+, ≥0.35) rate was also higher (10.06% vs 0%, respectively; P‐value: .015). Between the CRSsNP (chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps) and CRSwNP (chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps) groups, there were no differences in IgE‐SEB (KU/L) or IgE‐SEB (+) rates. IgE‐SEB positivity was not associated with the presence of polyps, concomitant asthma or postoperative recurrence. As the values of IgE‐SEB (KU/L) and the IgE‐SEB (+, >0.1) rate increased, the CRS severity also increased.

Conclusions

IgE‐SEB showed a positive correlation with Lund‐Mackay CT severity score, but not with postoperative recurrence or nasal polyps. Further studies are needed to obtain clear evidence that IgE‐SEB can be considered as an independent CRS endotype.
Generation of universal and hypoimmunogenic human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Ye Qingsong , Sung Tzu‐Cheng , Yang Jen‐Ming , Ling Qing‐Dong , He Yan , Higuchi Akon
Published: November 2020

There is a need to store very large numbers of conventional human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) lines for their off‐the‐shelf usage in stem cell therapy. Therefore, it is valuable to generate “universal” or “hypoimmunogenic” hPSCs with gene‐editing technology by knocking out or in immune‐related genes. A few universal or hypoimmunogenic hPSC lines should be enough to store for their off‐the‐shelf usage. Here, we overview and discuss how to prepare universal or hypoimmunogenic hPSCs and their disadvantages. β2‐Microglobulin‐knockout hPSCs did not harbour human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐expressing class I cells but rather activated natural killer (NK) cells. To avoid NK cell and macrophage activities, homozygous hPSCs expressing a single allele of an HLA class I molecule, such as HLA‐C, were developed. Major HLA class I molecules were knocked out, and PD‐L1, HLA‐G and CD47 were knocked in hPSCs using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. These cells escaped activation of not only T cells but also NK cells and macrophages, generating universal hPSCs.
Everyone is normal: Consistent livestock management norms and demographic clusters in Kenya and Zimbabwe
Authors: Perry Laura R. , Moorhouse Tom P. , Sibanda Lovemore , Sompeta Steiner L. , Macdonald David W. , Loveridge Andrew J.
Published: November 2020

Human behavior often determines the success of conservation projects, and the emerging discipline of conservation psychology focuses on understanding and influencing this behavior. Social norms (a group's perception of the appropriateness of behaviors) are a key influence on human behavior, and social norms campaigns can often engender population‐wide behavior changes. Human‐predator conflict is a major conservation issue, and one in which human behavior plays a substantial role: high standards of livestock management can considerably lower predation levels. In this paper, we use factor analysis to show that the livestock management normative belief structure of rural livestock owners is highly conserved between populations in Kenya and Zimbabwe. Through cluster analysis, we also show that qualitatively distinct attitudinal groups can be identified, and that some of these groups are common to both regions. Researchers often assume that social landscapes are unique, but we show that this is not the case for livestock management norms. People's attitudes are also generally assumed to be site‐specific, but we found commonalities across different regions, indicating that certain attitude sectors may be present in all livestock‐owning populations. If livestock management norms and attitude groups are indeed highly conserved between regions, it may be possible to develop standardized tools with which to understand the norms that influence livestock management behavior, and identify population sectors for targeted interventions. Often, conservation projects have little in‐house social science expertise, and social studies are avoided despite the benefits they bring. Here, we demonstrate that standardized approaches may be possible, and could aid the implementation—and success—of conservation interventions.