bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cortical circuit for orchestrating oromanual food manipulation
Authors: An Xu , Matho Katherine , Li Yi , Mohan Hemanth , Xu X. Hermione , Whishaw Ian Q. , Kepecs Adam , Huang Z. Josh
Published: December 2022

Cooperative forelimb and mouth movements during eating contribute to diet selection among vertebrates including the oromanual manipulatory skills in rodents and primates. Whereas spinal and brainstem circuits implement forelimb and orofacial actions, whether there is a specialized cortical circuit that flexibly assembles these to achieve cross-body and oromanual coordination for skilled manipulation remains unclear. Here we discover a cortical region and its cell-type-specific circuitry that orchestrates body postures and oromanual coordination for food manipulation in mice. An optogenetic screen of cortical areas and projection neuron types identified a rostral forelimb-orofacial area (RFO), wherein activation of pyramidal tract (PTFezf2) and intratelencephalic (ITPlxnD1) neurons induced concurrent posture, forelimb and orofacial eating-like movements. In a pasta-eating behavior, RFO PTFezf2and ITPlxnD1activity were closely correlated with picking up the pasta, adopting a sitting posture, oromanual manipulation, and hand-assisted biting. RFO inactivation and inhibition of RFO PTsFezf2and ITsPlxnD1impaired posture and oromanual coordination, leading to deficient pasta manipulation and biting. RFO is reciprocally connected to forelimb and orofacial sensorimotor areas as well as insular and visceral areas. Within this network, ITsPlxnD1project bilaterally to the entire network and the ventrolateral striatum and PTsFezf2project to multiple subcortical areas associated with forelimb and orofacial control. These results suggest that ITsPlxnD1select and coordinate the feeding program involving multiple body parts and PTsFezf2implement the fine details of movements. Our study reveals a neural circuit basis of hand-mouth coordination for object manipulation.
Astrocyte transcriptomic changes along the spatiotemporal progression of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Serrano-Pozo Alberto , Li Zhaozhi , Woodbury Maya E. , Muñoz-Castro Clara , Wachter Astrid , Jayakumar Rojashree , Bryant Annie G. , Noori Ayush , Welikovitch Lindsay A. , Hu Miwei , Zhao Karen , Liao Fan , Lin Gen , Pastika Timothy , Tamm Joseph , Abdourahman Aicha , Kwon Taekyung , Bennett Rachel E. , Talanian Robert V. , Biber Knut , Karran Eric H. , Hyman Bradley T. , Das Sudeshna
Published: December 2022

Astrocytes play a critical role in brain homeostasis and normal functions but their changes along the spatiotemporal progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) neuropathology remain largely unknown. Here we performed single-nucleus RNA-sequencing on brain regions along the stereotypical progression of AD pathology from donors ranging the entire normal aging-AD continuum comprising 628,943 astrocyte nuclei from 32 donors across 5 brain regions. We discovered temporal gene-expression-trajectories with gene sets differentially activated at various disease stages. Surprisingly, a gene set enriched in proteostasis and energy metabolism, was upregulated in late-stage but unexpectedly returned to baseline levels in end-stage, suggesting exhaustion of response in “burnt-out” astrocytes. The spatial gene-expression-trajectories revealed that astrocytic genes of tripartite synapses are dysregulated in parallel to the stereotypical progression of tangle pathology across regions. We identified astrocyte heterogeneity across brain regions with a continuum from homeostatic to reactive cells through “intermediate” transitional states. These findings suggest complex astrocytic dysfunction in AD neurodegeneration.
The impact of genetically controlled splicing on exon inclusion and protein structure
Authors: Einson Jonah , Minaeva Mariia , Rafi Faiza , Lappalainen Tuuli
Published: December 2022

Common variants affecting mRNA splicing are typically identified though splicing quantitative trait locus (sQTL) mapping and have been shown to be enriched for GWAS signals by a similar degree to eQTLs. However, the specific splicing changes induced by these variants have been difficult to characterize, making it more complicated to analyze the effect size and direction of sQTLs, and to determine downstream splicing effects on protein structure.

In this study, we catalogue sQTLs using exon percent spliced in (PSI) scores as a quantitative phenotype. PSI is an interpretable metric for identifying exon skipping events and has some advantages over other methods for quantifying splicing from short read RNA sequencing. In our set of sQTL variants, we find evidence of selective effects based on splicing effect size and effect direction, as well as exon symmetry. Additionally, we utilize AlphaFold2 to predict changes in protein structure associated with sQTLs overlapping GWAS traits, highlighting a potential new use-case for this technology for interpreting genetic effects on traits and disorders.
Systematic evaluation of anatomical details on transcranial electric stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation induced electric fields in a non-human primate model
Authors: Mantell Kathleen E. , Shirinpour Sina , Puonti Oula , Xu Ting , Zimmermann Jan , Heilbronner Sarah R. , Thielscher Axel , Opitz Alexander
Published: December 2022

Non-human primates (NHPs) have become key for translational research in noninvasive brain stimulation (NIBS). However, in order to create comparable stimulation conditions to humans it is vital to evaluate and match electric fields across species. Numerical models to simulate electric fields are an important tool for experimental planning in NHPs and translation to human studies. It is thus essential to evaluate how anatomical details in NHP models affect NIBS electric fields. Here, we create a highly accurate head model of a non-human primate (NHP) from 10.5 T MR data. We systematically evaluate how muscle tissue and head size (due to different MRI fields of view) affect simulation results in transcranial electric and magnetic stimulation (TES and TMS). Our findings indicate that the inclusion of muscle can affect TES electric field strength up to 29.5% while TMS is largely unaffected. Additionally, comparing a full head model to a cropped head model illustrates the impact of head size on electric fields for both TES and TMS. We find opposing effects between TES and TMS with an increase up to 13.5% for TES and a decrease up to 21.5% for TMS for the cropped head model compared to the full head model. Our results provide important insights into the level of anatomical detail needed for NHP head models and can inform future translational efforts for NIBS studies.

Highlights

We created a high resolution non-human primate FEM head model from 10.5 T MR data.

We ran transcranial electric and magnetic stimulation (TES and TMS) simulations to evaluate the effects of muscle and head size on the induced electric field in the brain.

We simulated both isotropic and anisotropic muscle conductivities.

Muscle tissue can greatly affect simulation results for TES (increase electric field strength by up to 29.5%), but not for TMS.

There are opposing, but large effects of using a full head model versus a cropped head model for both TES (increase up to 13.5%) and TMS (decrease of up to 21.5%)
Genetic tagging uncovers a robust, selective activation of the thalamic paraventricular nucleus by adverse experiences early in life
Authors: Kooiker Cassandra L. , Chen Yuncai , Birnie Matthew T. , Baram Tallie Z.
Published: December 2022

Background

Early-life adversity (ELA) is associated with increased risk for mood disorders including depression and substance use disorders. These are characterized by impaired reward-related behaviors, suggesting compromised operations of reward-related brain circuits. However, the brain regions engaged by ELA that mediate these enduring consequences of ELA remain largely unknown. In an animal model of ELA, we have identified aberrant reward-seeking behaviors, a discovery that provides a framework for assessing the underlying circuits.

Methods

Employing TRAP2 male and female mice, in which neurons activated within a defined timeframe are permanently tagged, we compared ELA and control-reared mice, assessing the quantity and distribution of ELA-related neuronal activation. After validating the TRAP2 results using native cFos labeling, we defined the molecular identity of this population of activated neurons.

Results

We uniquely demonstrate that the TRAP2 system is feasible and efficacious in neonatal mice. Surprisingly, the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus (PVT) is robustly and almost exclusively activated by ELA and is the only region distinguishing ELA from typical rearing. Remarkably, a large proportion of ELA-activated PVT neurons express CRFR1, the receptor for the stress-related peptide, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), but these neurons do not express CRH itself.

Conclusions

We show here that the PVT, an important component of reward circuits which is known to encode remote, emotionally salient experiences to influence future motivated behaviors, encodes adverse experiences as remote as those occurring during the early postnatal period and is thus poised to contribute to the enduring deficits in reward-related behaviors consequent to ELA.
Heterologous boosting of neutralizing activity against Delta and Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variants in CoronaVac-primed adults; a randomized study with SCB-2019 vaccine
Authors: Roa Camilo C. , de Los Reyes Mari Rose A. , Plennevaux Eric , Smolenov Igor , Hu Branda , Gao Faith , Ilagan Hannalyn , Ambrosino Donna , Siber George , Clemens Ralf
Published: December 2022

Background

The global COVID-19 pandemic has peaked but some countries such as China are reporting serious infectious outbreaks due to SARS-CoV-2 variants. Waning vaccine-derived immunogenicity and mutations in variants allowing vaccine evasion require new booster immunization approaches. We compared homologous and heterologous boosting in adults previously fully primed with a whole-virus inactivated COVID-19 vaccine.

Methods

At multiple sites in the Philippines we enrolled 430 adults (18-72 years) immunized with two doses of CoronaVac at least 3 months previously and randomly assigned them to receive homologous (CoronaVac, n = 216) or heterologous (recombinant protein vaccine, SCB-2019, n = 214) booster doses. Non-inferiority/superiority of the neutralizing antibody (NAb) response 15 days after boosting was measured by microneutralization against prototype SARS-CoV-2, and Delta and Omicron variants in subsets (50 per arm). Participants recorded solicited local and systemic adverse events for 7 days, unsolicited AEs until Day 29, and serious adverse events until Day 60.

Results

NAb geometric mean titers (GMT) against prototype on Day 15 were 744 (95% CI: 669-828) and 164 (143-189) in heterologous and homologous groups, respectively, with a heterologous/homologous GMT ratio of 4.63 (3.95-5.41), meeting both pre-defined non-inferiority and superiority criteria. Similarly, geometric mean-fold rises for NAb against Delta and Omicron BA.1, BA.2, BA.4 and BA.5 variants were superior after heterologous SCB-2019 (range 3.01-4.66) than homologous CoronaVac (range 0.85-1.6) in an exploratory analysis. Reactogenicity and safety measures were evenly balanced between groups; the most frequent local reaction was mild or moderate injection site pain; mild or moderate headache and fatigue were the most frequent systemic adverse events. No vaccine-related serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

Heterologous boosting of CoronaVac-immunized adults with SCB-2019 was well tolerated with superior immunogenicity than homologous boosting, particularly for newly emerged variants, supporting use of SCB-2019 for booster vaccination.
Secreted ADAMTS-like 2 promotes myoblast differentiation by potentiating Wnt signaling
Authors: Taye Nandaraj , Singh Mukti , Baldock Clair , Hubmacher Dirk
Published: December 2022

The formation of multinucleated contractile myofibers from muscle stem cells during myogenesis is indispensable for skeletal muscle formation. Myogenesis is governed by myogenic regulatory transcription factors, including MYOD. However, very few MYOD- regulated effector proteins were shown to be sufficient to promote myogenesis. Here, we identified an unexpected role for the secreted matricellular protein ADAMTS-like 2 (ADAMTSL2) as a rheostat for Wnt signaling during myogenesis downstream of MYOD. ADAMTSL2 expression was induced during myoblast differentiation and ADAMTSL2 was required for myoblast differentiation. ADAMTSL2 ablation in myogenic precursor cells resulted in aberrant muscle architecture in vivo. The pro-myogenic ADAMTSL2 function was dependent on WNT ligands. Mechanistically, ADAMTSL2 potentiated WNT signaling by binding to WNT ligands and WNT receptors. Finally, we identified a WNT-binding ADAMTSL2 peptide that was sufficient to promote myogenesis. Since ADAMTSL2 was previously described as a negative regulator of TGFβ signaling in fibroblasts, ADAMTSL2 now emerges as a signaling node that could integrate and fine-tune WNT, TGFβ and potentially other signaling pathways within the dynamic microenvironment of differentiating myoblasts during skeletal muscle development and regeneration.
Epileptiform activity influences theta-burst induced LTP in the adult hippocampus: a role for lipid raft dynamics in early metaplasticity
Authors: Carvalho-Rosa JD , Rodrigues NC , Silva-Cruz A , Vaz SH , Cunha-Reis D
Published: December 2022

Non-epileptic seizures are identified as a common epileptogenic trigger. Early metaplasticity following seizures may contribute to epileptogenesis by abnormally altering synaptic strength and homeostatic plasticity. We now studied howin vitroepileptiform activity triggers early changes in CA1 long-term potentiation (LTP) induced by theta-burst stimulation (TBS) in rat hippocampal slices and the involvement of lipid rafts in these early metaplasticity events. Two forms of epileptiform activity (EA) were induced: 1) interictal-like EA triggered by withdrawal of Mg2+and K+elevation to 6mM in the superfusion medium or 2) ictal-like EA induced by bicuculine (10μM) delivery. LTP induced 30 min post EA was impaired, an effect more pronounced after ictal-like EA. LTP recovered to control levels 60 min post interictal-like EA but was still impaired 60 min after ictal-like EA. The synaptic molecular events underlying this altered LTP were investigated 30 min post EA. Synaptosomes isolated from parallel slices showed enhanced AMPA GluA1 Ser831 phosphorylation but decreased Ser 845 phosphorylation and a marked decrease in GluA1/GluA2 ratio. A marked decrease in flotillin-1 and caveolin-1 levels concomitantly with a moderate increase in PSD-95 and marked increase in gephyrin levels.

Altogether, EA differentially influences hippocampal CA1 LTP thorough regulation of GluA1/GluA2 levels and AMPA GluA1 phosphorylation suggesting altered LTP post-seizures may be a relevant target of antiepileptogenic therapies. In addition, this metaplasticity is also associated with marked alterations in classic and synaptic lipid raft markers, suggesting these may also constitute promising targets in epileptogenesis prevention.
Sleep-related consolidation and generalizability of motor skills learned by physical practice, motor imagery and action observation
Authors: Conessa Adrien , Debarnot Ursula , Siegler Isabelle , Boutin Arnaud
Published: December 2022

Sleep benefits the consolidation of motor skills learned by physical practice, mainly through periodic thalamocortical sleep spindle activity. However, motor skills can be learned without overt movement through motor imagery or action observation. Here, we investigated whether sleep spindle activity also supports the consolidation of non-physically learned movements. Forty-five electroencephalographic sleep recordings were collected during a daytime nap after motor sequence learning by physical practice, motor imagery or action observation. Our findings reveal that a temporal cluster-based organization of sleep spindles underlies motor memory consolidation in all groups, albeit with distinct behavioral outcomes. A daytime nap offers an early sleep window promoting the retention of motor skills learned by physical practice and motor imagery, and its generalizability towards the inter-manual transfer of skill after action observation. Findings may further have practical impacts with the development of non-physical rehabilitation interventions for patients having to remaster skills following peripherical or brain injury.
Mechanism-Based and Computational Modeling of Hydrogen Sulfide Biogenesis Inhibition - Interfacial Inhibition
Authors: Le Corre Laurent , Padovani Dominique
Published: December 2022

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gaseous signaling molecule that participates in various signaling functions in health and diseases. The tetrameric cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) contributes to H2S biogenesis and several investigations provide evidence on the pharmacological modulation of CSE as a potential target for the treatment of a multitude of conditions. D-penicillamine (D-pen) has recently been reported to selectively impede CSE-catalyzed H2S production but the molecular bases for such inhibitory effect have not been investigated. In this study, we report that D-pen follows a mixed-inhibition mechanism to inhibit both cystathionine (CST) cleavage and H2S biogenesis by human CSE. To decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying such a mixed inhibition, we performed docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Interestingly, MD analysis of CST binding reveals a likely active site configuration prior to gem-diamine intermediate formation, particularly H-bond formation between the amino group of the substrate and the O3’ of PLP. Similar analyses realized with both CST and D-pen identified three potent interfacial ligand-binding sites for D-pen and offered a rational for D-pen effect. Thus, inhibitor binding not only induces the creation of an entirely new interacting network at the vicinity of the interface between enzyme subunits, but it also exerts long range effects by propagating to the active site. Overall, our study paved the way for the design of new allosteric interfacial inhibitory compounds that will specifically modulate H2S biogenesis by cystathionine γ-lyase.

Graphical abstract
Distribution and environmental drivers of fungal denitrifiers in global soils
Authors: Bösch Yvonne , Pold Grace , Saghaï Aurélien , Karlsson Magnus , Jones Christopher M. , Hallin Sara
Published: December 2022

The microbial process denitrification is the primary source of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) from terrestrial ecosystems. Fungal denitrifiers, unlike many bacteria, lack the N2O reductase and are potential sources of N2O. Still, their diversity, distribution, and environmental determinants in terrestrial ecosystems remain unresolved. We used a phylogenetically informed approach to screen 1 980 soil and rhizosphere metagenomes representing 608 globally distributed sampling sites for the denitrification marker genenirK, coding for nitrite reductase. We show that fungal denitrifiers are sparse, yet cosmopolitan and dominated by saprotrophs and opportunistic plant pathogens. Few showed biome-specific distribution patterns. However, members of theFusarium oxysporumspecies complex, known to produce substantial amounts of N2O, were proportionally more abundant and diverse in the rhizosphere than in other biomes. Fungal denitrifiers were most frequently detected in croplands but were most abundant in forest soils. The overall low abundance of fungal relative to bacterial and archaeal denitrifiers suggests that their role in denitrification and contribution to soil N2O emissions may be less important than previously suggested. Nevertheless, in relative terms, they could play a role in soils characterized by high carbon to nitrogen ratio and low pH, especially in tundra and boreal and temperate coniferous forests. Our results further indicate that plant-pathogen interactions may favor fungal denitrifiers. Thus, increasing global warming with predicted proliferation of pathogens and the fact that many of the fungi withnirKdetected in the metagenomes are stress-tolerant cosmopolitans suggest that fungal denitrifier abundance may increase in terrestrial ecosystems.
What is the effectiveness of community diagnostic centres: a rapid review
Authors: Wale Alesha , Okolie Chukwudi , Everitt Jordan , Hookway Amy , Shaw Hannah , Little Kirsty , Lewis Ruth , Cooper Alison , Edwards Adrian
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic directly impacted diagnostic services in the UK and globally. This exacerbated the rapid rise in demand for diagnostics that existed before the pandemic, resulting in significant numbers of patients requiring various diagnostic services and increased waiting times for diagnostics and treatment. In 2021, community diagnostic centres were launched in England. As diagnostic services account for over 85% of clinical pathways within the NHS and cost over six billion pounds per year, diagnostic centres across a broader range of diagnostic services may be effective, efficient, and cost-effective in the UK health sector.

This rapid review aimed to identify and examine the evidence on the effectiveness of community diagnostic centres. A prior Research Evidence Map was used, along with the stakeholder input, to select a substantive focus for the rapid review. Comparative studies examining community diagnostic centres that accept referrals from primary care as a minimum were included. Prioritised outcomes included those relating to impact on capacity and pressure on secondary care, ensuring equity in uptake or access, and economic outcomes

The review included evidence available up until August 2022. Twenty primary studies were included. Twelve individual diagnostic centres were evaluated across the 20 studies. Most studies evaluated diagnostic centres located within hospital settings. One study evaluated a mobile diagnostic ultrasound service. Most studies were specific to cancer diagnoses. Six studies covered multiple health conditions, which will have also included cancer. Other conditions reported included: severe anaemia, fever of uncertain nature, and multiple sclerosis. A range of outcomes was identified. 11 studies conducted in Spain evaluated the same type of clinic i.e. Quick Diagnostic Unit and seven studies evaluated the same centre at different time intervals. No evidence relating to equity of access was identified.

The evidence relating to effectiveness appeared mixed. There is evidence to suggest that diagnostic centres can reduce various waiting times, including time to surgical consultation, time from consultation to treatment, time from cancer suspicion to treatment, time from diagnosis to specialist consultation and time from diagnosis to treatment. Diagnostic centres could help reduce pressure on secondary care by avoiding hospitalisations in stable patients.

Cost-effectiveness may depend on whether the diagnostic centre is running at full capacity. Factors that could determine the costs incurred by a centre include the diagnostic and clinical complexity of patients, and the characteristics of the unit including the number of staff and contribution of staff time.
Single cell RNA-seq in Drosophila testis reveals evolutionary trajectory of sex chromosome regulation
Authors: Wei Kevin H-C , Chatla Kamalakar , Bachtrog Doris
Published: December 2022

Although sex chromosomes have evolved from autosomes, they often have unusual regulatory regimes that are sex- and cell-type-specific such as dosage compensation (DC) and meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). The molecular mechanisms and evolutionary forces driving these unique transcriptional programs are critical for genome evolution but have been, in the case of MSCI in Drosophila, subject to continuous debate. Here, we take advantage of the younger sex chromosomes inD. miranda(XR and the neo-X) to infer how former autosomes acquire sex-chromosome specific regulatory programs using single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing and ribosome profiling, in a comparative evolutionary context. We show that contrary to mammals and worms, the X’s are downregulated through germline progression most consistent with a loss of DC instead of MSCI, resulting in half gene dosage at the end of meiosis for all three X’s. For the young neo-X, DC is incomplete across all tissue and cell types and this dosage imbalance is rescued by contributions from Y-linked gametologs which produce transcripts that are translated to compensate both gene and protein dosage. We find an excess of previously autosomal testis genes becoming Y-specific, showing that the neo-Y and its masculinization likely resolve sexual antagonism. Multicopy neo-sex genes are predominantly expressed during meiotic stages of spermatogenesis, consistent with their amplification being driven to interfere with Mendelian segregation. Altogether, this study reveals germline regulation of evolving sex chromosomes and elucidates the consequences these unique regulatory mechanisms have on the evolution sex chromosome architecture.
Firms’ dynamic capabilities and supply chain risk management: a B2B perspective
Authors: Gani Mohammad Osman , Takahashi Yoshi , Bag Surajit , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study examines the relationships between collaboration capability (CC) and supply chain risk management (SCRM) and the mediating role of supply chain alignment (SCA) between CC and SCRM. It also investigates the moderating role of data-driven culture (DDC) on the path joining CC and SCA.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted via a structured questionnaire among the 297 managers of Business-to-business (B2B) firms. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The result found a positive and significant relationship between CC and SCRM, CC and SCA, and SCA and SCRM. The research found a significant mediating role of SCA between CC and SCRM. The study also found a significant moderating role of DBC between CC and SCA.

Practical implications

The outcomes demonstrate the management and societal relevance of the study from the viewpoint of businesses in developing nations. To cope with dynamic shifts, managers and decision makers need to take initiative for collaboration among the supplier, to align with their supply chain operations and enhance preparedness of DDC to overcome supply chain-related risks in the future.

Originality/value

The results of this empirical study have the significant potential to provide valuable guidance and insights about the B2B firms’ CC to develop SCA to enhance SCRM as risk management for the supply chain can aid in loss prevention and provide an edge over competitors. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, these relationships based on the dynamic capability view (DCV) add to existing studies on B2B firms’ supply chains in a novel way.
Influence of collective forest tenure reform on rural households' forestry management investment: the case from seven provinces in China
Authors: Song Boyao , Liu Bingxin , He Chao
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The main objectives of collective forest tenure reform in China are to stimulate rural households to invest in forestry management, protect the ecosystem and improve their livelihood. By constructing the unbalanced panel data of household investment, this study discusses the dynamic changes and influencing factors of household investment, which will lay a foundation for further research and provide a reference for decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on 3,500 samples from rural households in the provinces of Fujian, Hunan, Yunnan, Shaanxi, Jiangxi, Gansu, and Liaoning collected during field investigations from 2010 to 2015, this study conducts an empirical analysis of the household investment in forestry management and its factors with nonbalanced panels.

Findings

According to the analysis, the average investment in forestry management per household from 2010 to 2015 fluctuates greatly; the age of the householder, increased forestry area, subsidies, joining professional cooperatives, and forest tenure mortgage show positive effects on achieving the objectives.

Originality/value

The discussions are drawn from the study that supporting policies such as the forest tenure transfer system, professional cooperatives, financial services and subsidies should be further improved to sustain a positive in the forestry industry.
Weak EMH and Canadian stock markets: evidence from linear and nonlinear unit root tests
Authors: Neifar Malika , Gharbi Leila
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the weak form of the efficient market hypothesis (EMH) using monthly data from 2004M08 to 2018M04 for two Canadian stock indices: the Islamic (DJICPI) and the conventional (CCSI). This paper investigates whether Islamic and/or conventional stock market would be efficient through the non-stationarity test of the stock indices.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct the linearity test of Harveyet al.(2008) to identify whether the considered series has linear or nonlinear behavior. If the time series exhibits nonlinear evolution, then the authors apply nonlinear unit root tests (three KSS type tests and Sollis tests).

Findings

Linearity test results say that LCCSI has nonlinear behavior, while Dow Jones Islamic Canadian Price Index, LDJICPI, is a linear process. Then, the findings of this paper show that only Canadian Islamic Price Index (DJICPI) has the characteristics of random walk indicating that only conventional stock markets are inefficient. The major implication is that in Canada, fund managers and investors can (cannot) enjoy excess returns to their investment in conventional (Islamic) stock market.

Originality/value

Numerous empirical studies of the weak EMH are carried out within a linear framework. However, stock indices can show nonlinear behavior as a result of 2008 global financial crisis. To contribute to the existing literature on the Islamic and conventional stock market efficiency, the authors take into account both structural breaks and nonlinearity. Thus, as a testing strategy for weak EMH, the authors perform (Harveyet al., 2008) linearity test to examine the presence of nonlinear behavior and correct for outliers effect when it is needed.
How “safe” is the WTO “safe haven”? A need to modernise disciplines for officially supported export credits
Authors: Jennekens Bob , Klasen Andreas
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to draw attention to an urgent need for reform of the regulatory framework of the broader export credit system to ensure a new and comprehensive “safe haven” for officially supported export credits. The purpose is to analyse the complex debate on disciplines of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), creating a point of reference for future analysis of and debates around the “carve-out clause” of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (ASCM) and a “safe haven” in a broader sense.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes inspiration from legal, economic and political science literature on subsidies and officially supported export credits, as well as on legal documents related to the WTO and the OECD. It examines the WTO subsidy and the OECD export credits framework, focusing on main legal and economic governance aspects. Then, it gives a critical analysis how “safe” a “safe haven” in a broader sense might be, assessing frictions of and solutions for the fundamentally different set of disciplines, limitations, financial instruments not covered by OECD regulations, as well as new challenges related to climate finance.

Findings

After assessing the challenges regarding the “carve-out clause” of the WTO subsidy framework and two tracks aiming to create a new “safe haven”, requirements for comprehensive disciplines for officially supported export credits are pointed out. Furthermore, several misunderstandings and mistakes appearing in the debate are clarified.

Research limitations/implications

Desktop research rather than empirical field work.

Practical implications

This paper creates awareness for governments and exporters how to deal with a complex system of interrelated disciplines. The question, how “safe” a “safe haven” in a broader sense can be, has not been resolved yet. Some authors focus on the WTO disciplines not taking into account the need for an effective matching procedure of the Arrangement on Officially Supported Export Credits (the Arrangement). Furthermore, the introduction of several new pre-export financing programmes and the growing significance of climate finance-related instruments for export credit agencies creates both opportunities and challenges. This paper can serve as a reference point for the academic debate and further research. This paper also offers newcomers to the topic a comprehensive overview.

Originality/value

Although the “carve-out clause” and the Arrangement have been much discussed, there is limited literature review structuring both existing and new aspects of the debate, assessing (dis)advantages of arguments and interpretations. This paper both adds to the corpus of literature about the ASCM, as well as the Arrangement, and takes this corpus as the object of its analysis.
How does the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) affect financial intelligence exchange with third countries?
Authors: Haq Md. Zahurul
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the probable effect of the General Data Protection Regulation of the European Union on the transfer of financial intelligence to a third country without an adequacy decision.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an analytical study of the financial intelligence exchange mechanisms between the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) and its foreign counterparts. The research analyses the key challenges this national agency faces in using the Egmont Group membership to import financial intelligence from jurisdictions with a superior data protection regime.

Findings

Membership in the Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units does not guarantee unrestricted international intelligence exchange. Existing data protection regulations in Bangladesh are inadequate. This may forbid the transfer of the financial intelligence linked to European Union (EU) data subjects to Bangladesh.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not cover a thorough discussion on any specific alternative tools for data transfer from the EU to a third country except for “appropriate safeguards” options.

Practical implications

The results of this study will help understand the existing legal and institutional limitations that may prevent intelligence exchange between the BFIU and its EU counterparts.

Originality/value

The study helps ascertain the legislative reform necessary in Bangladesh, a third country, to facilitate the transfer of financial intelligence from the EU.
Clinical value of the prognostic nutritional index and red blood cell distribution width‐to‐albumin ratio for the prediction of severity of and mortality associated with Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Zhang Zhibin , Yu Kaihui , Jiang Zhenyu , Liu Ougen , Wan Chuan , Wu Hongxuan , Cao Xianwei
Published: December 2022

The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and red blood cell distribution width‐to‐albumin ratio (RAR) are considered to be related to the prognosis of disease severity. However, the role of these biomarkers in predicting Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) severity and mortality is unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association of PNI and RAR with severity and mortality in individuals with SJS/TEN. Clinical data were retrospectively collected from 74 individuals with SJS/TEN and 74 healthy individuals, who were matched for age and sex during the same period. PNI, RAR, and other indicators were compared between individuals with SJS/TEN and healthy controls. The association of PNI and RAR with SJS/TEN severity was assessed using Spearman or Pearson correlation analyses. Individuals with SJS/TEN were categorized into two groups, either survivors or nonsurvivors. The correlation between PNI, RAR, and SJS/TEN mortality was analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. The predictive value of the previously mentioned indicators on the mortality of patients with SJS/TEN was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The RAR level of patients with SJS/TEN was greater than that of the control group (p < 0.05), whereas PNI was lower. In compliance with correlation analysis, RAR was positively correlated with SCORTEN (Score of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis) and ABCD‐10 (age, bicarbonate, cancer, dialysis, 10% body surface area) (p < 0.05), and PNI was negatively correlated (p < 0.05). RAR is a risk factor for death in patients with SJS/TEN, but an elevated PNI level is a protective factor for mortality. The best cutoff values of PNI and RAR for predicting death in patients with SJS/TEN were 31.375 (sensitivity, 84.7%; specificity, 80%) and 0.486 (sensitivity, 73.3%; specificity, 84.7%). These results underscore the potential clinical value of PNI and RAR as appropriate and meaningful biomarkers to assess the severity of SJS/TEN and the mortality associated with it.
Catalase promotes whitefly adaptation to high temperature by eliminating reactive oxygen species
Authors: Liang Peng , Ning Jie , Wang Wenlu , Zhu Pu , Gui Lianyou , Xie Wen , Zhang Youjun
Published: December 2022

Thermal stress usually leads to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in all aerobic organisms. Catalases (CAT) are the key antioxidant enzymes, which act as the first line of defense against ROS in the antioxidant pathway. The highly invasive and widely distributed whitefly Bemisia tabaci MED damages plants by feeding as well as by transmitting many plant viruses. Previous studies have shown that strong adaptability to high temperature helps explain the spread of MED around the world. However, the mechanism underlying high temperature adaptation of this pest is not well understood. In this study, 6 CAT genes were identified from the MED genome and transcriptome dataset, among which BtCAT1, BtCAT2, and BtCAT3 were found to be highly expressed in adults. The expression of BtCAT1, BtCAT2, or BtCAT3 increased with induction temperature and induction time. The MED was exposed with mean high temperature (30 °C or 35 °C) and a short‐term extremely high temperature (39 °C or 41 °C) after the silencing of BtCAT1, BtCAT2, or BtCAT3 to significantly increased ROS levels by at least 0.5 times and significantly decreased survival rate and fecundity of MED adults. The ROS level in the treated specimens gradually returned to a normal level after 24 h at 25 °C, but the survival rate still declined significantly. Taken together, our results demonstrate that CAT could help B. tabaci adapt to long‐term mean high temperatures and short‐term extremely high temperatures by eliminating excessive ROS.
Improving fresh cheese shelf‐life through hyperbaric storage at variable room temperature
Authors: Duarte Ricardo V. , Lopes‐da‐Silva José A. , Gomes Ana M. , Delgadillo Ivonne , Barba Francisco J. , Saraiva Jorge A.
Published: December 2022

The changes in microbiological, physiochemical, and textural properties in fresh cheeses made from either cow or goat milk were observed under hyperbaric storage (HS, 50–100 MPa) at room temperature (RT) and compared with refrigerated storage under normal atmospheric pressure for 60 days. An initial microbial growth inhibition was observed for both cheese types, as well as a considerable inactivation of all endogenous microbiota under HS/RT (75–100 MPa/RT). This contributed to a higher stability of pH and color values, especially at the higher pressure at room temperature (100 MPa/RT) throughout 60 days storage. A compression effect occurred during HS/RT, resulting in higher whey loss, reduction in moisture content, and textural changes. Such changes tended to decrease over time, to values closer to the initial ones, with hardness values at the 60th day of storage at 75/RT similar to those observed for refrigeration on the 7th day and 1.4‐fold higher than those observed at 100/RT. Overall, HS/RT reduced the microbial populations load during storage (≥5 log units in some cases), with minimal effects on most of the evaluated quality parameters. These results point to a considerable shelf‐life extension of HS fresh cheeses, without temperature control, pinpointing HS as a more sustainable preservation strategy than refrigeration, with great potential for industrial application.

Practical Application

The results presented in this study point to increased microbial stability of fresh cheeses when stored under hyperbaric storage without temperature control, leading possibly to an increased shelf‐life, of up to 60 days. This kind of new food preservation strategy may be suitable for longer transportation of foods, where energy may not be handily and widely available, while additionally contributing to increased shelf‐life and safety. Also, hyperbaric storage could be applied throughout the food storage, improving shelf‐life with a lower carbon footprint than refrigeration.
Microbial community and extracellular polymeric substances analysis of anaerobic granular sludge exposed to selenate, cadmium and zinc
Authors: Zeng Taotao , Hu Qing , Rene Eldon R. , Lens Piet N. L.
Published: December 2022

The microbial community and extracellular polymeric substances composition of anaerobic granular sludge exposed to selenate (~10 mg/L), cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) (~2 and 5 mg/L) were investigated by high‐throughput sequencing and fluorescence excitation emission matrix (FEEM) spectra, respectively. As a response to selenate, Cd and/or Zn exposure, significant fluorescence quenching of fulvic‐like acids and humic‐like substances was observed. With selenate, Cd and/or Zn in the influent with respective concentrations of 10, 5 and 5 mg/L, the abundance of the phyla Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Spirochaetae, Cloacimonetes and Synergistetes increased significantly, and the dominant taxa in the anaerobic granular sludge exposed to Se, Cd and/or Zn were Halothiobacillaceae (10.2%), Pseudomonas (8.8%), Synergistaceae (7.7%), Spirochaetaceae (7.2%), Blvii28 wastewater sludge group (6.7%), Telmatospirillum (4.6%), Veillonellaceae (4.3%), Geobacter (4.0%) and Enterobacteriaceae (3.0%). Compared with the inoculum, the abundance of the archaea Methanobacterium and Methanosaeta decreased to below detection limit in the UASB reactor after 116 days exposure to Se, Cd and Zn.
Two single nucleotide variants in the miR‐23a promoter affect granulosa cell apoptosis
Authors: Wang Siqi , Li Yuqi , Du Xing , Li Qifa
Published: December 2022

microRNAs (miRNAs) are well known to be important in mammalian female fertility. However, the genetic regulation of miRNAs associated with female fertility remains largely unknown. Here, we report that two single‐nucleotide variants (SNVs) in the miR‐23a promoter strongly influence miR‐23a transcription and function in granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis. Two novel SNVs, g.‐283G>C and g.‐271C>T, were detected in the porcine miR‐23a promoter by pooled‐DNA sequencing. Furthermore, SNVs in the promoter region influenced miR‐23a transcription in porcine GCs by altering its promoter activity. Functionally, SNVs in the promoter strongly influenced miR‐23a regulation of early apoptosis in porcine GCs cultured in vitro. In addition, a preliminary association analysis showed that the combined genotypes of the two SNVs, rather than a single SNV, were tentatively associated with sow fertility traits in a Large White population. Overall, our findings suggest that the SNVs g.‐283G>C and g.‐271C>T in the miR‐23a promoter are causal variants affecting GC apoptosis and miR‐23a may be a potential small‐molecule nonhormonal drug for regulating female fertility.
The need of having a plan in excessive infant crying – A qualitative study of parents' experiences of healthcare support
Authors: Harskamp‐Van Ginkel Margreet W. , Klazema Willemien , Hoogsteder Mariëtte H. H. , Chinapaw Mai J. M. , van Houtum Lieke
Published: December 2022

Aim

Excessive infant crying increases parents' concerns regarding their infant's health and the burden of parenting. We aimed to gain insight into the healthcare support needs of parents with excessively crying infants.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted in the Netherlands. We performed semi‐structured interviews with parents of 12 infants between June and December 2020, followed by inductive and deductive thematic analysis.

Results

Parents described what their needs were with regard to the assessment of infant crying and support by professionals. Long‐lasting crying made parents feel that there must be a somatic cause. If they could soothe their infant, they gained more confidence that their infant was healthy. We identified four interrelated themes: (i) confidence in the professional; (ii) seeking a somatic cause for the crying; (iii) seeking acknowledgment; and (iv) exhaustion of parents and feelings of failure.

Conclusion

Parental support needs were best fulfilled by professionals who took them seriously, demonstrated medical expertise, and offered a practical plan. Perinatal parental education on normal infant behaviour and infant soothing techniques might improve parental self‐efficacy at an early stage and prevent medicalization of excessive crying.
Understanding and overcoming challenges in times of personal or global crisis—Editorial on the Special Issue on Loneliness and Health
Authors: Lippke Sonia , Warner Lisa Marie
Published: December 2022

The ever‐present interest in loneliness has increased during the last decade. Although loneliness is generally not as prevalent as other topics and not among the top 5 most read papers in the journal Applied Psychology: Health and Well‐Being, it is closely connected to topics therein, such as well‐being and health. Conceptualizing loneliness as indicator of risk, it may function as a cue for action. Accordingly, understanding loneliness, its development, prevalence, effects, and how to support individuals to prevent or overcome loneliness is key and the main aim of this special issue. Therefore, theories and models are reviewed in this paper and synthesized together with other aspects relating to the field of loneliness research and intervention. Accordingly, we propose an agenda including key determinants (e.g., risk groups), how to proceed (various research methods), intervention components (e.g., behavior change techniques, SDGs), and how to perform dissemination (open science practices, co‐creative approaches, etc.). The original studies in this special issue provide stimulating examples. Moreover, the commentaries give new insights and inspiring ideas. Overall, this special issue aims to give readers a lens with which to re‐examine their own research, enable innovation, and empower addressing loneliness and its interconnection synergistically.