bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-cell RNA sequencing of conditional Pten knockout neurons in mice
Authors: Svoboda Marek , Luikart Bryan , Bosco Giovanni
Published: March 2022

PTEN is a well-known tumor suppressor whose mutations are also strongly associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The activity and function of PTEN in neurons have been studied extensively in various settings, whereas animal models offer the best opportunity to experimentally modify and test the role of PTEN in neuronal development in vivo. On the molecular level, PTEN’s importance in the mTOR pathway’s suppression is well-known but many other interactions have been suggested and yet others likely remain undiscovered. Therefore, to systematically explore the regulatory landscape downstream of PTEN on the genetic level, we have set out to establish a singlecell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) workflow to measure gene expression changes as a result of knocking out the Pten gene in vivo. We were able to collect brain tissue from four conditionally knocked out mouse samples and dissociate them into single live cells, which were subsequently flow-sorted and a scRNA-seq library was prepared. All of these steps were completed in a single day, yielding sequencing data from hundreds of cells suitable for cell clustering, cell type identification, and differential expression measurements. Having demonstrated its feasibility, this approach promises to aid hypothesis generation and discovery in mapping the function of Pten as well other genes whose regulatory networks remain to be fully defined.
Potent and specific human monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant by rapid mRNA immunization of humanized mice
Authors: Ren Ping , Peng Lei , Fang Zhenhao , Suzuki Kazushi , Renauer Paul , Lin Qianqian , Bai Meizhu , Yang Luojia , Li Tongqing , Clark Paul , Klein Daryl , Chen Sidi
Published: March 2022

The Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of SARS-CoV-2 rapidly becomes dominant globally. Its extensive mutations confer severe efficacy reduction to most of existing antibodies or vaccines. Here, we developed RAMIHM, a highly efficient strategy to generate fully human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), directly applied it with Omicron-mRNA immunization, and isolated three potent and specific clones against Omicron. Rapid mRNA immunization elicited strong anti-Omicron antibody response in humanized mice, along with broader anti-coronavirus activity. Customized single cell BCR sequencing mapped the clonal repertoires. Top-ranked clones collectively from peripheral blood, plasma B and memory B cell populations showed high rate of Omicron-specificity (93.3%) from RAMIHM-scBCRseq. Clone-screening identified three highly potent neutralizing antibodies that have low nanomolar affinity for Omicron RBD, and low ng/mL level IC50 in neutralization, more potent than majority of currently approved or authorized clinical RBD-targeting mAbs. These lead mAbs are fully human and ready for downstream IND-enabling and/or translational studies.
Two different phospholipases C, Isc1 and Pgc1, cooperate to regulate mitochondrial function
Authors: Maria Balazova , Lenka Babelova , Ivana Durisova , Petra Vesela , Paulina Kanovicova , Jakub Zahumensky , Jan Malinsky
Published: March 2022

Absence of Isc1, the yeast homologue of mammalian neutral sphingomyelinase type 2, leads to severe mitochondrial dysfunction. We show that deletion of another type-C phospholipase, the phosphatidylglycerol (PG)-specific Pgc1, rescues this defect. Phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) levels and cytochrome c oxidase activity, reduced in isc1Δ cells, were restored to wild-type levels in the pgc1Δisc1Δ mutant. Pgc1 substrate, PG, inhibited in vitro activity of Isc1 and phosphatidylserine decarboxylase Psd1, an enzyme crucial for PE biosynthesis. We also identify a mechanism by which the balance between the current demand for PG and its consumption is controlled. We document that the product of PG hydrolysis, diacylglycerol, competes with the substrate of PG-phosphate synthase, Pgs1, and thereby inhibits the biosynthesis of excess PG. This feedback loop does not work in the absence of Pgc1, which catalyzes PG degradation. Finally, Pgc1 activity is partially inhibited by products of Isc1-mediated hydrolysis. The described functional interconnection of the two phospholipases contributes significantly to lipid homeostasis throughout the cellular architecture.

The coordinated action of two different type-C phospholipases is documented, which provides a balance between mitochondrial phospholipid biosynthesis and sphingolipid metabolism. The regulatory role of specific lipids, phosphatidylglycerol, diacylglycerol and ceramide in this process is demonstrated.
Performance of the new biological small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering beamline 13A at the Taiwan Photon Source
Authors: Shih O. , Liao K.-F. , Yeh Y.-Q. , Su C.-J. , Wang C.-A. , Chang J.-W. , Wu W.-R. , Liang C.-C. , Lin C.-Y. , Lee T.-H. , Chang C.-H. , Chiang L.-C. , Chang C.-F. , Liu D.-G. , Lee M.-H. , Liu C.-Y. , Hsu T.-W. , Mansel B. , Ho M.-C. , Shu C.-Y. , Lee F. , Yen E. , Lin T.-C. , Jeng U.
Published: March 2022

Recent developments in the instrumentation and data analysis of synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) on biomolecules in solution have made biological SAXS (BioSAXS) a mature and popular tool in structural biology. This article reports on an advanced endstation developed at beamline 13A of the 3.0 GeV Taiwan Photon Source for biological small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS–WAXS or SWAXS). The endstation features an in-vacuum SWAXS detection system comprising two mobile area detectors (Eiger X 9M/1M) and an online size-exclusion chromatography system incorporating several optical probes including a UV–Vis absorption spectrometer and refractometer. The instrumentation and automation allow simultaneous SAXS–WAXS data collection and data reduction for high-throughput biomolecular conformation and composition determinations. The performance of the endstation is illustrated with the SWAXS data collected for several model proteins in solution, covering a scattering vector magnitude q across three orders of magnitude. The crystal-model fittings to the data in the q range ∼0.005–2.0 Å−1 indicate high similarity of the solution structures of the proteins to their crystalline forms, except for some subtle hydration-dependent local details. These results open up new horizons of SWAXS in studying correlated local and global structures of biomolecules in solution.
Advanced perspectives in the EXPO software for solving crystal structures from powder diffraction data
Authors: Cuocci Corrado , Corriero Nicola , Baldassarre Francesco , Dell'Aera Marzia , Falcicchio Aurelia , Rizzi Rosanna , Altomare Angela
Published: March 2022

Innovative computational and graphical tools have been implemented for advancing the crystal structure solution process from powder diffraction data using the EXPO software. These improve the capacity of EXPO to tackle challenging solution cases and make the structural study of microcrystalline materials more user friendly. The novel features concern the structure solution both in reciprocal space and in direct space. For reciprocal-space solution, the new capability to solve an unknown structure from a mixture composed of one unknown structure and one or more phases with known structures is particularly valuable. For direct-space structure solution, EXPO has been enhanced by parallelized simulated annealing with the aim of both reducing the execution time of the solution process and providing a successful result when several degrees of freedom must be varied. Many other new tools, functional for overcoming practical difficulties usually encountered during the solution process, have also been completed. In particular, a new tool for searching and importing structures from the Crystallography Open Database is effective for supporting the solution process in direct space. The advances in EXPO aim to provide software with improved reliability, expanded operation and greater speed.
Designing and evaluating falls prevention education with residents and staff in aged care homes: a feasibility study
Authors: Francis-Coad Jacqueline , Watts Tessa , Bulsara Caroline , Hill Anne-Marie
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to co-design a falls prevention education programme with aged care home residents and staff and evaluate its feasibility. The intention of providing the education programme was to assist residents to stay safe and mobile whilst reducing their risk of falling.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-phase mixed methods participatory design using a resident (n = 6) and care staff (n = 5) consumer engagement panel, pre- and post-programme resident (n = 35) survey and semi-structured care staff interviews (n = 8) was undertaken in two countries.

Findings

A poster, brochure, video and staff education guide featuring 12 safety messages depicting fall prevention behaviours were co-designed. Residents, supported by staff, perceived the falls prevention education programme as enjoyable and informative, but there were no significant differences in capability, opportunity or motivation. However, several residents were observed enacting fall prevention behaviours such as “If I feel unwell, I'll ring the bell” and waiting for staff assistance. Challenges to programme demand, acceptability and implementation which may have impacted residents' exposure and engagement with the programme were identified, along with recommendations to improve feasibility.

Practical implications

When developing falls prevention education programmes partnering with residents and staff, providing choices to meet personal and aesthetic preferences along with frequent, shorter duration learning opportunities are important for translating education messages into actions.

Originality/value

The use of bespoke resources, novel rhymes, positive messages emphasising safety and co-designing with residents themselves was a welcomed point of programme difference.
Personality matters: does an individual's personality affect adoption and continued use of green banking channels?
Authors: Malik Garima , Singh Dharmendra
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Technology has revolutionized banking, and “green banking” has been the most recent phenomenon to have caught the financial world's attention. In this paper, the authors look at how personality traits of individuals influence their adoption and continued use of green banking channels. The authors also propose a comprehensive model integrating the “big five” personality traits (conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, openness and neuroticism) into the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), along with expectation confirmation theory. The integrated proposed model is used in this longitudinal study to predict the continued use of green banking channels once adopted.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data during two time periods about 24 weeks apart from 826 green banking channel users from different regions in India. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling.

Findings

The authors found that traits of agreeableness, conscientiousness and extraversion favor an individual adopting green banking channels, while conscientiousness and openness were only associated with its perceived usefulness (PU).

Research limitations/implications

The results offer valuable insights for understanding the adoption and use behavior of people regarding green banking channels. This study would help develop effective segmentation strategies for promoting green banking channels.

Originality/value

By incorporating the big five, along with TAM and Expectation Confirmation Model (ECM), coupled with “trust” as an additional construct, we believe that our study enlarges the boundaries of Information Technology (IT) theories, especially in the context of green banking channels. This study also contributes to advancing the personality theory by exploring how personality traits significantly relate to adopting and using green banking channels.
Transport in supply networks
Authors: Eriksson Victor , Dubois Anna , Hulthén Kajsa
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to analyse how transport activities are embedded in supply chains and networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is empirically grounded in a single case study that describes and analyses a supply chain of a particular product, Geocloth, focussing on how transport activities are organised in the supply network.

Findings

The paper concludes that transport activities are embedded in two related settings – the supply chain setting and the transport network setting – with implications for how adjustments can be made to increase transport performance. Furthermore, the paper shows how transport performance can be analysed as a function of how business relationships are connected vertically (i.e. how transport activities are sequentially connected within supply chains) and horizontally (i.e. how transport activities are connected across supply chains with regard to joint resource use).

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the understanding of how transport is integrated in supply networks by focussing on the connections between business relationships in supply chains and by pointing to how transport activities are embedded both in supply chain settings and in transport network settings.
Business strategy and classification shifting: Indian evidence
Authors: Bansal Manish , Bashir Hajam Abid
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of business strategy on the classification shifting practices of Indian firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study considered cost leadership and differentiation strategy. Two forms of classification shifting, namely, expense misclassification and revenue misclassification have been examined in this study. Panel data regression models are used to analyze the data for this study.

Findings

The results show that managers of cost leadership strategy firms are more likely to be engaged in expense misclassification, whereas firms following differentiation strategy are likely to be engaged in revenue misclassification. Subsequent tests of this study suggest that firms following a hybrid strategy (mix of cost leadership and differentiation) prefer revenue misclassification over expense misclassification for reporting inflated operating performance. These results imply that firms prefer the shifting tool based on the ease and need of each shifting strategy. These results are consistent with several robustness measures.

Practical implications

The results suggest that investors should understand business strategy before developing insights about the accounting quality of firms. Investors should conduct a comprehensive review of income statement items before using items for portfolio evaluation.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the association between business strategy and classification shifting.
Design thinking: strategy for digital transformation
Authors: Vendraminelli Luca , Macchion Laura , Nosella Anna , Vinelli Andrea
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Digital advancements offer several opportunities to firms to gain competitive advantages, pushing them to transform their operating models. From the managerial standpoint, governing a digital transformation process is a complex task, as it means steering the process that goes from the exploration of the ample spectrum of opportunities that digital technologies provide, to the reduction of this complexity to a final set of actions to be designed and executed. As design theories are suited to solve complex problems, the purpose of this paper is to frame a design-driven approach to plan and execute a digital transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study pivots on an in-depth case study of a large Italian firm in the fashion sector that adopted design thinking to craft its digital transformation strategy and turn it into a list of projects to be executed.

Findings

Drawing from design theories, the authors framed a three-stage process (understanding reality, defining a digital transformation strategy and converting the digital transformation strategy into digital projects).

Research limitations/implications

The external validity of the study is limited due to the choice to rely on an in-depth single case study.

Practical implications

The framework provided offers a structure for managing the digital transformation through strategy development and execution. Moreover, practitioners and companies can evaluate if their digital transformation process is under control and reflect whether they have been giving the right attention to each of the three identified stages. They could follow the footsteps of EYEWEAR and adopt the proposed framework to design their company’s digital transformation process.

Social implications

This paper is supposed to help firms in reflecting on how to organize their digital transformation process. A positive transition to digital technologies enabled by the human-centeredness of design is likely to improve the quality of life of the people that belong to the transformed organization.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first research attempts at the crossroad between the fields of design, strategy and technology management and a groundwork for further studies to be conducted in this field.
Corporate Social Responsibility policies and practices on unvaccinated employees during the COVID-19 pandemic: case studies of Israel and United States
Authors: Litor Lilach
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The article addresses the tension between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the right to work in times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, it explores the operation of corporations in adopting policies of mandatory vaccination and the role of the courts regarding these CSR patterns.

Design/methodology/approach

The article examines court case studies of CSR practices regarding unvaccinated employees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel and the United States.

Findings

The findings show that the Israeli system adopted the regulating for individual discretionary CSR approach, whereas the American system adopted the regulating for ethical-public CSR approach. Adopting the latter infringes upon the right to work of unvaccinated employees. While in Israel, the possibility of compelling employees to vaccinate is denied, in the American model, mandatory vaccination is possible. As opposed to the American model, in the Israeli model, there is an obligation to consider proportionate measures to isolate the employees while allowing them to continue working.

Originality/value

The article introduces two possible notions of regulating CSR in times of the pandemic – regulating for individual discretionary CSR which is labor-oriented and regulating for ethical-public CSR which is focused on public aspects. While the former posits that corporations should advance individual interests of employees and their right to work, the latter claims that corporations should advance the public interest in health. Following the problems resulting from the Israeli and American cases, the article draws on the lines for a suggested approach that courts should embrace.
Tourism-led rural gentrification: impacts and residents’ perception
Authors: Xu Yumei , Wang Chaohui , Zhang Tingting
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study aims to develop a measurement scale of tourism-led rural gentrification from the perspective of rural residents.

Design/methodology/approach

The procedure for developing the measurement scale included a thorough review of related literature on tourism-led rural gentrification and multiple stages of qualitative and quantitative investigations. A total of 1,080 rural residents in Huzhou and Huangshan participated in the project. The semi-structured interviews and questionnaire were applied to collect the data. This study analyzed the data with the methodologies of exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling.

Findings

The measurement scale developed in this study included seven dimensions: Accelerated Ecological Awareness, Individual Behavior, Rural Economic Development, Enhanced Living Standards, Talents and Demographic Changes, Human and Cultural Shift and Cohesive Community.

Research limitations/implications

This measurement scale was developed and validated in China and may not be relevant in other contexts. The scale focuses on tourism-led rural gentrification only from the perspective of rural residents. The findings broaden the knowledge on tourism-led rural gentrification by researching the topic from the point of view of rural residents.

Practical implications

For policymakers and tourism enterprises, this study provides a valuable index for a full understanding of tourism-led rural gentrification. For investors, the research offers insights for priority investments to advance tourism development in rural regions.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few attempts to empirically measure tourism-led rural gentrification. The results improve on the knowledge about tourism-led rural gentrification in China.
Effect of B&B host responses to online reviews on subsequent reviews: the moderating effects of class level
Authors: Lan Tao , Feng Xiaodong , Zeng Zhimin
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study aims to focus on understanding how the characteristics of the bed and breakfast (B&B) host responses to online reviews impact the subsequent business performance of review volume, including volume, timeliness and length of responses.

Design/methodology/approach

The study constructs a theoretical framework to model for the relationships among characteristics of the B&B host responses, heterogeneity of B&B houses and subsequent reviews. The model is then examined by an econometric model using data from Ctrip.com.

Findings

Prompt and lengthy responses to online reviews increase the number of subsequent reviews, and the effects are larger for higher level houses. The main theoretical contribution is to build a model explaining how multiple attributes of the host responses can affect business performance and how these effects are moderated by the class levels of B&B houses, which are empirically tested by real data.

Practical implications

This study highlights managerial implications of host responses for online B&B business practices. For the higher-quality B&B houses, based on price and reviews, lengthy and timely responses are necessary, as tourists expect increased customer service from these hosts.

Originality/value

The research provides insights in understanding the mechanism of B&B host responses on subsequent reviews. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the moderating effect of price and volume of online reviews on responses.
Effects of a short-duration preprecipitation process prior to predeformation aging on the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of Al-Cu-Mg-Ag alloy
Authors: Wang Yanqin , Wang Lulu , Liu Xiao Yan , Yang Hongru , Zhang Yuan , Zhu Xiaosong
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The effects of the thermo-mechanical treatment on the properties and microstructure of the Al–Cu–Mg–Ag alloy were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

A short-duration preprecipitation process is designed prior to predeformation aging. The novel predeformation aging (solution treatment + holding at 185 °C for 15 min+ rolling deformation + aging at 185 °C, also named T8) was performed on a heat-resistant Al–Cu–Mg–Ag alloy.

Findings

The purpose of this study indicate that a short-duration heat treatment before predeformation is beneficial to the precipitation of O during the aging process. The precursors of O during this process might pin the dislocation and cause the grains to orient along some specific direction, which might be advantageous to the precipitation of O while disadvantageous to that of θ′. This novel thermal-mechanical process could result in an increase in the quantity and decrease in the size of the precipitation of O, which leads to a remarkable strength effect. The potential increases while the current density decreases with an increase in the deformation amount, which implies a smaller intergranular corrosion rate. The fine deformed structure leads to an opposite behavior in the exfoliation corrosion test compared with that for intergranular corrosion.

Originality/value

The intergranular corrosion resistance of the Al–Cu–Mg–Ag alloy is enhanced, whereas the exfoliation corrosion resistance is reduced by novel predeformation aging.
Innovation information disclosure and stock price crash risk‐based supervision and insurance effect path analysis
Authors: Yu Ziqin , Xiao Xiang
Published: March 2022

Because of the long cycle of innovation, more investment, high risk and other characteristics, Chinese innovative firms tend to have a higher degree of information asymmetry, leading to frequent stock price ‘flash crashes’. This study investigates the impact of innovation information disclosure on stock price crash risk by examining the supervisory effect and insurance effect of innovation information disclosure for Growth Enterprises Market(GEM)‐listed firms in China from 2015 to 2019. We find that innovation information disclosure helps reduce firms' future stock price crash risk. The mechanism test finds that innovation information disclosure can exert both supervisory and insurance effects to reduce stock price crash risk. Specifically, after dividing innovation information disclosure into three categories: innovation advantage, content and risk disclosure, a vertical comparison reveals that the insurance effect of innovation advantage disclosure is more significant than the supervisory effect, while the opposite is true for innovation risk disclosure; a horizontal comparison reveals that the supervisory effect of innovation advantage, content and risk disclosure increases and the insurance effect decreases in order. The more types of innovation information disclosure, the more significant the effect of reducing stock price crash risk. Further analysis finds that the inhibitory effect of innovation information disclosure on stock price crash risk is stronger in firms with higher agency costs and higher innovation intensity in the industry. Our research has some insights into how to reduce the stock price crash risk of innovative companies in China.
Pollen exposure is associated with risk of respiratory symptoms during the first year of life
Authors: Gisler Amanda , Eeftens Marloes , de Hoogh Kees , Vienneau Danielle , Salem Yasmin , Yammine Sophie , Jakob Julian , Gorlanova Olga , Decrue Fabienne , Gehrig Regula , Frey Urs , Latzin Philipp , Fuchs Oliver , Usemann Jakob ,   the BILD study group
Published: March 2022

Background

Pollen exposure is associated with respiratory symptoms in children and adults. However, the association of pollen exposure with respiratory symptoms during infancy, a particularly vulnerable period, remains unclear. We examined whether pollen exposure is associated with respiratory symptoms in infants and whether maternal atopy, infant's sex or air pollution modifies this association.

Methods

We investigated 14,874 observations from 401 healthy infants of a prospective birth cohort. The association between pollen exposure and respiratory symptoms, assessed in weekly telephone interviews, was evaluated using generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs). Effect modification by maternal atopy, infant's sex, and air pollution (NO2, PM2.5) was assessed with interaction terms.

Results

Per infant, 37 ± 2 (mean ± SD) respiratory symptom scores were assessed during the analysis period (January through September). Pollen exposure was associated with increased respiratory symptoms during the daytime (RR [95% CI] per 10% pollen/m3: combined 1.006 [1.002, 1.009]; tree 1.005 [1.002, 1.008]; grass 1.009 [1.000, 1.23]) and nighttime (combined 1.003 [0.999, 1.007]; tree 1.003 [0.999, 1.007]; grass 1.014 [1.004, 1.024]). While there was no effect modification by maternal atopy and infant's sex, a complex crossover interaction between combined pollen and PM2.5 was found (p‐value 0.003).

Conclusion

Even as early as during the first year of life, pollen exposure was associated with an increased risk of respiratory symptoms, independent of maternal atopy and infant's sex. Because infancy is a particularly vulnerable period for lung development, the identified adverse effect of pollen exposure may be relevant for the evolvement of chronic childhood asthma.
Does implementation of and adherence to enhanced recovery after surgery improve perioperative nutritional management in colorectal cancer surgery?
Authors: Besson Alex J. , Kei Christy , Djordjevic Aleksandra , Carter Vanessa , Deftereos Irene , Yeung Justin
Published: March 2022

Background

Malnutrition is independently associated with poor outcomes in colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery including increased complications and length of stay (LOS). The purpose of this study was to identify changes to perioperative nutritional management and surgical outcomes post implementation of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol.

Methods

Data on LOS and adherence to the ERAS protocol, including preoperative fasting time, nutritional assessment and supplementation was prospectively collected for the pre‐ERAS group who underwent surgery for CRC between February and August 2019. The post‐ERAS group involved a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients who underwent surgery between October 2019 and July 2020.

Results

One hundred and thirty patients were included, (Pre‐ERASn = 42, Post‐ERASn = 88). A reduction in time to first solid intake by 1 day (P = 0.010), time to first bowel action (P = 0.007) and incidence of nausea (P < 0.001) was seen in the post‐ERAS group. Provision of postoperative oral supplements increased from 33.3% to 70.5% (P < 0.001) in the post‐ERAS group. Thirteen post‐ERAS patients had a ≥ 70% adherence to the ERAS protocol and this subgroup had an associated reduction in LOS, 6.5 (4) days to 5 (3),P = 0.020.

Conclusion

Implementation of the ERAS protocol improved perioperative patient care and outcomes. Early feeding was associated with reduced gastrointestinal symptoms without an increase in complications. Adherence to ERAS was associated with a reduction in LOS. Further research is required to evaluate the role of preoperative nutritional screening and intervention within an ERAS protocol.
The health‐related quality of life changes following surgery in patients with colorectal cancer: a longitudinal study
Authors: Tang Howard , Besson Alex , Deftereos Irene , Mahon Bede , Cho Jin , Faragher Ian , Gough Karla , Yeung Justin
Published: March 2022

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is commonly treated with surgery and its success is frequently defined by cure rates. Impact on other aspects of health and wellbeing are less frequently considered in clinical practice. Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) provide a useful means of assessing such impacts. This study examines changes in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) after surgical resection using PROMs.

Methods

A prospective, longitudinal study was undertaken in 49 adults receiving curative surgery for CRC. Participants completed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Colorectal (FACT‐C) before surgery, and at 2 to 4 weeks, 3 and 6 months post‐surgery. Linear mixed models were used to analyse FACT‐C wellbeing and subscale scores.

Results

Patients reported a clinically important deterioration in functional and physical wellbeing 2 to 4 weeks post‐surgery (both P < 0.05); differences at 6 months after surgery were trivial. Conversely, patients reported clinically important improvement in emotional wellbeing at 2 to 4 weeks post‐surgery; this improvement was sustained at 3 and 6 months post‐surgery (all P < 0.05). For social wellbeing and colorectal cancer‐specific concerns, changes from before surgery at follow‐up assessments were not statistically significant (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

While physical aspects of HRQoL are affected in the short term by CRC surgery, clinically significant improvement in emotional wellbeing are reported early (2 to 4 weeks post‐surgery). Future research may help identify patients who are at greater risk of surgical impacts on health and wellbeing.
Just Transitions: A Political Ecology Critique
Authors: Bouzarovski Stefan
Published: March 2022

“Green deals” to promote socially inclusive decarbonisation have captured the imagination of public intellectuals and advocates across the political spectrum. Such programmes are often premised upon the concept of “just transitions”, which aims to reconcile environmental and social concerns in the movement towards a low‐carbon future. I respond to some of the underlying tensions that underpin dominant discourses in this domain by foregrounding collective, disruptive, and non‐capitalist forms of infrastructural transformation in the energy domain. I discuss possibilities for a more egalitarian politics and shared environmental commons in the articulation of residential energy efficiency and housing upgrades with the aid of insights from the political ecology literature, and examples from activist praxis across Europe and North America. More broadly, I highlight how well‐known contradictions of labour, environmental sustainability, and economic transformation are complicated by encounters with climate and energy circulations.
Uterine conservative–resective surgery for selected placenta accreta spectrum cases: Surgical–vascular control methods
Authors: Aryananda Rozi Aditya , Aditiawarman Aditiawarman , Gumilar Khanisyah Erza , Wardhana Manggala Pasca , Akbar M. Ilham Aldika , Cininta Nareswari , Ernawati Ernawati , Wicaksono Budi , Joewono Hermanto Tri , Dachlan Erry Gumilar , Bachtiar Citra Aulia , Kurniawati Devita , Virdayanti Dian Puspita , Ariani Grace , Dekker Gustaaf Albert , Sulistyono Agus
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The incidence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) has increased, but the optimal management and the optimal way to achieve vascular control are still controversial. This study aims to compare maternal outcomes between different methods of vascular control in surgical PAS management.

Material and methods

A retrospective cohort study on consecutive cases diagnosed with PAS between 2013 and 2020 in single tertiary hospital. The final diagnosis of PAS was made following preoperative ultrasound and confirmation during surgery. Management of PAS using cesarean hysterectomy with internal iliac artery ligation (IIAL) was compared with two types of vascular control in uterine conservative–resective surgery (IIAL vs identification–ligation of the upper vesical, upper vaginal, and uterine arteries).

Results

Over an 8‐year period, 234 pregnant women were diagnosed with PAS meeting the inclusion criteria. Uterine conservative–resective surgery (200 cases) was associated with lower mean blood loss compared with cesarean hysterectomy with IIAL (34 cases) in all PAS cases (1379 ± 769 mL vs 3168 ± 1916 mL; p < 0.001). In sub‐analysis of the two uterine conservative–resective surgery subgroups, the group with identification–ligation of the upper vesical, upper vaginal, and uterine arteries had a significantly lower blood loss compared with uterine conservative–resective surgery with IIAL (1307 ± 743 mL vs 1701 ± 813 mL; p = 0.005). Women in the hysterectomy with IIAL group had more massive transfusion (35.3% vs 2.5%; p < 0.001; odds ratio [OR] 21.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.9–66), major blood loss (>1500 mL) (70.6% vs 34%, p < 0.001; OR 4.7; 95% CI 2.1–10.3), catastrophic blood loss (>2500 mL) (64.7% vs 12.5%;p < 0.001; OR 12.8, 95% CI 5.7–29.1), other complications (32% vs 12.4%; p = 0.007; OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.5–7.7), and intensive care unit admission (32.4% vs 1.5%; p < 0.001; OR 31.4, 95% CI 8.2–120.7) compared with the uterine conservative–resective surgery groups. The identification–ligation of the upper vesical, upper vaginal and uterine arteries had a significant lower risk for major blood loss (30.5% vs 50%; p = 0.041; OR 0.44, 95% CI = 0.2–0.9) compared with IIAL for vascular control of uterine conservative–resective surgery.

Conclusions

Cesarean hysterectomy is not the default treatment for PAS, PAS with invasion above the vesical trigone are suitable for uterine conservative–resective surgery with upper vesical, upper vaginal and uterine artery vascular control.
TMEM139 prevents NSCLC metastasis by inhibiting lysosomal degradation of E‐cadherin
Authors: Zhang Shuai , He Yunlong , Xuan Qijia , Ling Xiaodong , Men Kaiya , Zhao Xu , Xue Dinglong , Li Ling , Zhang Yingying
Published: March 2022

Non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases and has the highest mortality rate among all solid tumors. It is characterized by early metastasis, and investigations of the molecular mechanisms underlying the progression and metastasis of NSCLC are urgently needed for the development of therapeutic targets. Here, we report that the transmembrane protein TMEM139 is significantly downregulated in NSCLC and that reduced expression of TMEM139 is correlated with a poor prognosis in NSCLC patients. Mechanistically, we found that TMEM139 directly interacts with E‐cadherin at the plasma membrane and at focal adhesion sites. Moreover, TMEM139 can prevent the lysosomal degradation of E‐cadherin, which inhibits epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, migration and invasion of NSCLC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Our study not only expands our understanding of NSCLC metastasis but also provides a foundation to develop novel therapeutic strategies.
Ultrastructure abnormalities of collagen and elastin in Arab patients with arterial tortuosity syndrome
Authors: Faiyaz‐Ul‐Haque Muhammad , Mubarak Mohammed , AbdulWahab Atqah , AlRikabi Ammar C. , Alsaeed Abbas H. , Al‐Otaiby Maram , Nawaz Zafar , Zaidi Syed H. E. , Basit Sulman
Published: March 2022

Arterial tortuosity syndrome (ATS) is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by elongation and tortuosity of the large‐ and medium‐sized arteries. ATS patients display features that are also found in Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) patients. ATS is caused by pathogenic mutations in the SLC2A10 gene, which encodes for the glucose transporter, GLUT10. This study aimed at examining the ultrastructure of skin for abnormalities that can explain the loose skin and arterial phenotypes of Arab patients with the p.S81R mutation in SLC2A10. Forty‐eight patients with SLC2A10 mutation were recruited for this study. Skin biopsy specimens from three children with ATS and a healthy child were examined by electron microscopy to determine the ultrastructure of collagen and elastin. Histopathologic staining of sections from tissue biopsy specimens was also performed. Large spaces were observed among the collagen fibrils in the skin biopsy specimens obtained from ATS patients, suggesting disorganization of the collagen structures. Furthermore, elastin fiber contents and their thickness are reduced in the skin. In small muscular arteries in the skin from ATS patients, discontinuous internal elastic lamina, lack of myofilaments, and disorganized medial smooth muscle cells with vacuolated cytoplasm are present. The disorganization of collagen fibrils and reduced elastin contents in the skin may explain the loose skin phenotype of ATS patients similar to the EDS patients. The lack of elastin in small muscular arteries may have contributed to the development of arterial tortuosity in these patients.
The effects of the Arab Spring on female labour force participation in the MENA region
Authors: Ghazalian Pascal L.
Published: March 2022

The Arab Spring (AS) event characterized the recent history of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It brought about various economic, political, and social conditions and transformations that affected women's well‐being and their status and participation in the labour market. Accordingly, this paper examines the short‐run and the long‐run effects of the AS on female labour force participation (FLFP) rates in the MENA region. The empirical analysis is implemented through the generalized method of moments (GMM) system estimator for dynamic panel models, using the basic (one‐step) and the two‐step approaches over different empirical specifications. The benchmark empirical results show that the AS is associated with moderate average increases in FLFP rates in the MENA region. The empirical analysis subsequently emphasizes significant variations and distinct patterns in the AS effects on FLFP rates across MENA countries, and it ties these findings to the AS‐related economic, political and social circumstances in these countries.
Natural incidence of pathogenic fungi on stink bug pests in Argentinian rice paddies
Authors: Fuentes Daniela , Toledo Andrea , Pedrini Nicolás , Sosa Alejandro , Santana Marianela , Gervazoni Paula , Dellapé Gimena , Franceschini Celeste
Published: March 2022

Entomopathogenic fungi (EF) are important biocontrol agents due to their wide host range, easy application, and compatibility with phytosanitary products. Stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) are the most important rice pests in Argentina. Although there is information on the pathogenicity of EF against stink bug pests in rice fields, the natural incidence of EF, and especially their association with stink bug species and plant characteristics, is largely unexplored. The aims of this study were: (1) to monitor the natural incidence of EF on Pentatomidae pests in Argentinian rice paddies; (2) to assess the relationship between the incidence of EF, stink bug feeding guild, and rice cultivar; and (3) to perform a phylogenetic analysis of the EF recorded. Sampling was conducted in target rice fields throughout the rice‐growing season (2017–2018), during which adult individuals ofTibraca limbativentrisStål andOebalusspp. were manually collected and visually examined for evidence of mycelial development. Of the 780 individuals examined, 182 infected individuals were recorded, from which 12 strains of EF were isolated and identified based on molecular characterization: three strains ofBeauveria bassianasensu lato (Bals.‐Criv.) Vuill., five ofMetarhizium anisopliaes.l. (Metschn.) Sorokin, and four ofPurpureocillium lilacinum(Thom) Luangsa‐ard et al. (Hypocreales). The occurrence of the three EF species was significantly higher in stem‐feedingT. limbativentristhan in seed‐feedingOebalusspp., thus, differed between feeding guilds. ForT. limbativentris, the occurrence of EF was higher when feeding on a short than on a tall rice variety, thus, differed between plant varieties. The results illustrate the potential of using native strains of EF in integrated management of stink bugs in rice.
The building projects and the Histories of Gregory of Tours
Authors: Merrington John
Published: March 2022

This article offers a fresh perspective on the life and works of the sixth‐century bishop Gregory of Tours by analysing Gregory’s magnum opus, the Histories, alongside a frequently overlooked aspect of his episcopal career: his restoration of the cathedral church of Tours and St Martin’s basilica following their devastation by fire in the time of his predecessor, Eufronius. Drawing on the conceptual insights of memory studies, I argue that Gregory’s writings and building projects formed part of a single project which he pursued throughout his time in office to restore and rearticulate the relationship of the episcopate of Tours with its past.
Sex differences in GABAA receptor subunit transcript expression are mediated by genotype in subjects with alcohol‐related cirrhosis of the liver
Authors: Ashton Madeline K. , Rueda André V. L. , Ho Ada M.‐C. , Noor Aizin Noradibah Arina Binte M. , Sharma Hansa , Dodd Peter R. , Stadlin Alfreda , Camarini Rosana
Published: March 2022

Male and female human subjects show contrasting propensities to misuse drugs of addiction, including alcohol. These differences lead to different psychological and neurological consequences, such as the likelihood of developing dependence. The pattern and extent of brain damage in alcohol‐use disorder cases also varies with comorbid disease. To explore mechanisms that might underlie these outcomes, we used autopsy tissue to determine mRNA transcript expression in relation to genotype for two GABAA receptor subunit genes. We used quantitative Real‐Time PCR to measure GABRA6 and GABRA2 mRNA concentrations in dorsolateral prefrontal and primary motor cortices of alcohol‐use disorder subjects and controls of both sexes with and without liver disease who had been genotyped for these GABAA receptor subunit genes. Cirrhotic alcohol‐use disorder cases had significantly higher expression of GABRA6 and GABRA2 transcripts than either controls or non‐cirrhotic alcohol‐use disorder cases. Differences were observed between sexes, genotypes and brain regions. We show that sex differences in subjects with GABRA6 and GABRA2 variants may contribute to differences in susceptibility to alcohol‐use disorder and alcohol‐induced cirrhosis.
Demonstration of Managed Aquifer Recharge in a Coastal Plain Aquifer: Lessons Learned
Authors: Martinez Meredith B. , Widdowson Mark A. , Bott Charles , Holloway Dan , Heisig‐Mitchell Jamie , Wilson Christopher
Published: March 2022

The sustainable water initiative for tomorrow (SWIFT) is a 378,000 m3/day (100 MGD) managed aquifer recharge (MAR) program designed by the Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) to rehabilitate the Potomac Aquifer System (PAS) in the Coastal Plain of Eastern Virginia. Groundwater is a primary water source in Eastern Virginia with over 93% of reported use derived from the PAS. Starting in May 2018, HRSD has operated a 3780 m3/day (1.0 MGD) MAR demonstration facility at the SWIFT Research Center (SWIFT‐RC) in Suffolk, Virginia. The primary aim of the SWIFT‐RC is to demonstrate, at a meaningful scale, the feasibility of MAR using deep well recharge into confined PAS hydrostratigraphic unit. The SWIFT‐RC employs advanced water treatment technology to bring secondary effluent from an HRSD wastewater treatment plant to drinking water standards. Lessons learned include the evaluation and selection of a multiple barrier carbon‐based treatment system to ensure water quality and maintain geochemical compatibility between MAR water and native groundwater, and the evaluation and selection of aluminum chlorohydrate for stabilizing aquifer clays immediately around the well to accept the fresher recharge water. The distribution of flow in the SWIFT‐RC multiscreen recharge well and associated well injectivity were variable with time resulting from changing conditions in the well. Dynamic recharge well performance was quantified through the combined analysis of intrinsic and artificial tracer transport, in situ flowmeter testing, and water level analysis. Monitoring well nests and a depth‐discrete sampling system supported a robust sampling plan to analyze chemical transport and attenuation in SWIFT‐RC groundwater.