bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid propagation of membrane tension at a presynaptic terminal
Authors: Perez Carolina Gomis , Dudzinski Natasha R. , Rouches Mason , Machta Benjamin , Zenisek David , Karatekin Erdem
Published: May 2021

Many cellular activities, such as cell migration1, cell division2,3, signaling4,5, infection6, phagocytosis7 and exo-endocytosis8–11, generate membrane tension gradients that in turn regulate them12. Moreover, membrane flows, which are driven by tension gradients, can limit exo-endocytosis coupling in space and time, as net membrane flow from exocytic to endocytic sites is required to maintain membrane homeostasis13. However, there is controversy over how rapidly plasma membrane flows can relax tension gradients; contrary to the common view12,14,15, recent work showed membrane tension does not equilibrate in several cell types16. Here we show membrane tension can propagate rapidly or slowly, spanning orders of magnitude in speed, depending on cell type. In a neuronal terminal specialized for rapid synaptic vesicle turnover and where exo-endocytosis events occur at distinct loci, membrane tension equilibrates within seconds. By contrast, membrane tension does not propagate in neuroendocrine adrenal chromaffin cells secreting catecholamines. Thus, slow membrane flow and tension equilibration may confine exo- and exocytosis to the same loci17. Stimulation of exocytosis causes a rapid, global decrease in the synaptic terminal membrane tension, which recovers slowly due to endocytosis. Our results demonstrate membrane tension propagates rapidly at neuronal terminals and varies during synaptic activity, likely contributing to exo-endocytosis coupling.
Identifying interpretable gene-biomarker associations with functionally informed kernel-based tests in 190,000 exomes
Authors: Monti Remo , Rautenstrauch Pia , Ghanbari Mahsa , James Alva Rani , Ohler Uwe , Konigorski Stefan , Lippert Christoph
Published: May 2021

Here we present an exome-wide rare genetic variant association study for 30 blood biomarkers in 191,971 individuals in the UK Biobank. We compare gene-based association tests for separate functional variant categories to increase interpretability and identify 193 significant gene-biomarker associations. Genes associated with biomarkers were ~ 4.5-fold enriched for conferring Mendelian disorders. In addition to performing weighted gene-based variant collapsing tests, we design and apply variant-category-specific kernel-based tests that integrate quantitative functional variant effect predictions for missense variants, splicing and the binding of RNA-binding proteins. For these tests, we present a statistically powerful and computationally efficient combination of the likelihood-ratio and score tests that found 36% more associations than the score test alone. Kernel-based tests identified 13% more associations than their gene-based collapsing counterparts and had advantages in the presence of gain of function missense variants. We introduce local collapsing by amino acid position for missense variants and use it to interpret associations and identify potential novel gain of function variants inPIEZO1. Our results show the benefits of investigating different functional mechanisms when performing rare-variant association tests, and demonstrate pervasive rare-variant contribution to biomarker variability.
The evolution of the phenylpropanoid pathway entailed pronounced radiations and divergences of enzyme families
Authors: de Vries Sophie , Fürst-Jansen Janine MR , Irisarri Iker , Ashok Amra Dhabalia , Ischebeck Till , Feussner Kirstin , Abreu Ilka N , Petersen Maike , Feussner Ivo , de Vries Jan
Published: May 2021

Land plants constantly respond to fluctuations in their environment. Part of their response is the production of a diverse repertoire of specialized metabolites. One of the foremost sources for metabolites relevant to environmental responses is the phenylpropanoid pathway, which was long thought to be a land plant-specific adaptation shaped by selective forces in the terrestrial habitat. Recent data have however revealed that streptophyte algae, the algal relatives of land plants, have candidates for the genetic toolkit for phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and produce phenylpropanoid-derived metabolites. Using phylogenetic and sequence analyses, we here show that the enzyme families that orchestrate pivotal steps in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis have independently undergone pronounced radiations and divergence in multiple lineages of major groups of land plants; sister to many of these radiated gene families are streptophyte algal candidates for these enzymes. These radiations suggest a high evolutionary versatility in the enzyme families involved in the phenylpropanoid-derived metabolism across embryophytes. We suggest that this versatility likely translates into functional divergence and may explain the key to one of the defining traits of embryophytes: a rich specialized metabolism.
Controlling shareholders' stock pledges and strategic change: the moderating effects of corporate governance
Authors: Zhong Xi , Wan He , Peng Qiuping
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The authors analyze the effects of controlling shareholders' stock pledging on firms' strategic change behavior, and investigate how the balance of power between shareholders and analyst coverage moderates those effects.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing fixed effects models, the authors test hypotheses based on Chinese listed company data from 2011 to 2017.

Findings

Controlling shareholders' stock pledges has a negative effect on strategic change. As the balance of power among shareholders and/or analyst coverage increases, it mitigates the effect of controlling shareholder stock pledges on strategic change. In particular, the balance of power between shareholders and analyst coverage weakened the relationship between controlling shareholder stock pledges and strategic change. Lastly, after distinguishing family from nonfamily firms, the authors discovered that these findings only held for family firms.

Originality/value

This study makes important contributions to strategic change, stock pledge and family firm literature, and also provides guidance on firms' strategic change practices.
Outsourcing of healthcare services in a smart city of Eastern India
Authors: Barik Susanta Kumar , Rout Himanshu Sekhar
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Owing to the rising costs and shrinking budgets; inefficiency can be observed in the financing and delivery of health service both in the private and public sectors, which is not only causing organizations to reconsider their management patterns but also to use new strategies to achieve competitive merits in the current world of business. Outsourcing is one of the best alternates. The purpose of this paper is to study: the nature and magnitude of outsourcing of health-care services in a Smart City of Eastern India; the motives behind outsourcing: and the factors affecting outsourcing decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in Bhubaneswar, a Smart City of Eastern India and capital of Odisha State. Data relating to the outsourcing of health-care services were collected from 40 hospitals (each having a minimum of 10 beds) through a structured schedule. Descriptive statistics were calculated through Statistical Package for Social Science to substantiate the objectives.

Findings

Most of the clinical services were outsourced by small hospitals, while a significant portion of non-clinical services were outsourced by large and medium hospitals. Reduction in cost and better management control were the major driving forces of outsourcing. Loss of control over service providers and quality of measurement were considered as the main disadvantages in the decision-making process of not outsourcing the services by hospitals.

Originality/value

The study is the first-ever survey based on empirical evidence about the state of facilities management services outsourced in public and private hospitals in Odisha, India. The paper concluded that the effect of outsourcing did not synchronize successfully as shown in international literature.
Building a resilient public health system for international migrant workers: a case study and policy brief for COVID-19 and beyond
Authors: Rojanaworarit Chanapong , El Bouzaidi Sarah
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This article analyzes deficiencies in public health services for international migrant workers (IMWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic and provides a policy brief for improvement of the public health system.

Design/methodology/approach

A COVID-19 outbreak that initially clustered in IMWs and further contributed to the resurgence of the disease across Thailand in December 2020 was analyzed to address the deficiencies in public health services based on the framework of the 10 Essential Public Health Services (EPHS). The EPHS framework was also applied to develop policy options and recommendations in the subsequent policy brief.

Findings

This outbreak unveiled unique challenges that make IMWs more vulnerable to COVID-19. The public health system, challenged by the COVID-19 outbreak among IMWs, manifested deficiencies in the planning and implementation of all essential services. Delayed detection of the outbreak along with the lack of policy accommodating undocumented IMWs and the lack of equitable access to testing and treatment for COVID-19 resulted in the transmission of the disease that harmed the public at large.

Originality/value

The comprehensive analysis of the deficiencies in public health services for IMWs enabled a clear description of problems that could be further prioritized by relevant stakeholders. The policy brief provides policymakers with evidence-based recommendations for improving public health services for IMWs during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Improving vegetable supply chain collaboration: a case study in Vietnam
Authors: Yang Ying , Pham Mai Ha , Yang Biao , Sun Jun Wei , Tran Phuong Nguyen Thu
Published: May 2021

Purpose

While various aspects of the vegetable supply chain (SC) have been increasingly studied, most studies tend to investigate the downstream part of the SC in terms of customer demand and product quality. Relatively fewer studies have focused on upstream suppliers/farmers. This study aims to understand upstream farmers’ positions in different types of vegetable SCs and identify ways of enhancing sustainable vegetable SC collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on an in-depth case study of a cooperative SC in Vietnam from the perspectives of both the cooperative and its farmers.

Findings

The study found that cooperative SCs are the most appropriate for Vietnamese farmers. It also identified the key activities needed to engage farmers with cooperative SCs and the mechanisms that the cooperative needs to develop. Cooperative SCs can be enhanced only when farmers are motivated to engage in SC activities and when the cooperative implements a robust management mechanism.

Originality/value

This study provides new, insightful results on how to engage with small fragmented farmers for SC collaboration and how to enhance the roles of cooperative SCs in the vegetable industry in Vietnam. It also provides information for policymakers to support sustainable vegetable SC development and maintain its sustainability.
The emerging importance of “homestays” in the Indian hospitality sector
Authors: Kulshreshtha Sandeep , Kulshrestha Ruchika
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the potential of “homestays” and also observe the trends related to this emerging concept in India. This paper also discusses various challenges faced by the owners of homestays.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on an exploratory study that sought to collect factual data about the present scenario and the emerging trends related to homestays. A qualitative case study method was used to analyse the actual practices followed by stakeholders. This paper expresses the viewpoint of the authors on the augmented demand for homestay supported by secondary data published in several academic papers and reports published by various government departments. The author interviewed a number of homestay owners to obtain a first-hand perspective.

Findings

This paper brings to light the rising trend toward homestays, the benefits of homestay tourism from the perspective of homestay stakeholders (both tourists and owners) and the impact on economic, social and cultural life, as a result of growth in the homestay concept.

Originality/value

The current level of discussion about homestays is limited, as there are relatively few prior studies reported in the literature.
T lymphocytes and preeclampsia: The potential role of T‐cell subsets and related MicroRNAs in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia
Authors: Zolfaghari Mohammad Ali , Arefnezhad Reza , Parhizkar Forough , Hejazi Mohammad Saeid , Motavalli Khiavi Farhad , Mahmoodpoor Ata , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: May 2021

Innate and adaptive immune systems have a crucial role in initiating and progressing some pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia (PE), which is one of the pregnancy‐specific disorders that could result in neonatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. The dysregulation of the spiral artery and inadequate trophoblast invasion lead to PE symptoms through producing various inflammatory cytokines and anti‐angiogenic factors from the placenta. T lymphocytes play a special role in the epithelium and stroma of the human endometrium. CD4+ T helper (Th) cells, Th1/Th2, and Th17/T regulatory (Treg) balance mainly contribute to the establishment of a pregnancy‐favorable environment. This review examined the dysregulation of some cytokines produced from T cells, the dysregulation of the transcription factors of Th cells, the expression of chemokine receptors on T cells, as well as the effects of some factors including vitamin D on the activity of T cells, and finally, the dysregulation of various miRNAs related to T cells, which could cause PE.
Spectral kinship
Authors: GAMMELTOFT TINE M.
Published: May 2021

Endurance is a key term used by women in contemporary Vietnam to characterize the moral persistence that their marital lives demand. Accounting for women's endurance requires, as fieldwork in Hanoi indicates, ethnographic attention to how kinship can be temporally and spatially capricious, exceeding the immediately manifest. The concept of spectral kinship aims to capture these latent aspects of kinship and their groundings in people's imaginative lives. Defining relatedness as an imaginal accomplishment, an analytic of spectral kinship draws attention to aspects of social existence that are neither “real” nor “delusional” yet socially powerful nevertheless. Approaching Vietnamese women's endurance through the lens of spectral kinship highlights the invisible, imaginal efforts that women make to cope with the vulnerabilities and contingencies of kinship, thereby bringing into analysis crucial yet often undervalued forms of gendered kin‐work. [domestic distress, endurance, gender, imaginal, hauntology, kinship, spectrality, Vietnam]
A shortened version of Raven’s standard progressive matrices for children and adolescents
Authors: Langener Anna M. , Kramer Anne‐Wil , van den Bos Wouter , Huizenga Hilde M.
Published: May 2021

Numerous developmental studies assess general cognitive ability, not as the primary variable of interest, but rather as a background variable. Raven’s Progressive Matrices is an easy to administer non‐verbal test that is widely used to measure general cognitive ability. However, the relatively long administration time (up to 45 min) is still a drawback for developmental studies as it often leaves little time to assess the primary variable of interest. Therefore, we used a machine learning approach – regularized regression in combination with cross‐validation – to develop a short 15‐item version. We did so for two age groups, namely 9 to 12 years and 13 to 16 years. The short versions predicted the scores on the standard full 60‐item versions to a very high degree r = 0.89 (9–12 years) and r = 0.93 (13–16 years). We, therefore, recommend using the short version to measure general cognitive ability as a background variable in developmental studies.
Inflammatory features in sporadic late‐onset nemaline myopathy are independent from monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: Tanboon Jantima , Uruha Akinori , Arahata Yukie , Dittmayer Carsten , Schweizer Leonille , Goebel Hans‐Hilmar , Nishino Ichizo , Stenzel Werner
Published: May 2021

Sporadic late‐onset nemaline myopathy (SLONM) is a rare adult‐onset non‐hereditary disease with subacute proximal muscle and often axial muscle weakness, characterized by the presence of nemaline bodies in skeletal muscle biopsies. Considering its association with concurrent monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), the disease is classified into two major subtypes (1) SLONM without MGUS (SLONM‐noMGUS) and (2) with MGUS (SLONM‐MGUS) association. SLONM associated with HIV infection (SLONM‐HIV) is also reported. SLONM‐MGUS has been shown to be associated with poorer prognosis and required aggressive treatment including high‐dose melphalan and autologous stem cell transplantation. The approach is currently debatable as recent reports suggested effectiveness of intravenous immunoglobulin as initial treatment with indifference of overall survival despite the presence of MGUS. Our study aimed to find an underlying basis by review of pathological features in 49 muscle biopsy proven‐SLONM from two large tertiary centers in Japan and Germany (n = 49: SLONM‐noMGUS = 34, SLONM‐MGUS = 13, SLONM‐HIV = 2). We compared pathological findings in SLONM‐noMGUS and SLONM‐MGUS and focused on the presence of any detectable inflammatory features by immunohistochemistry. The clinical and histological features in SLONM‐noMGUS and SLONM‐MGUS were not distinctively different except for more common regenerating fibers (>5% of myofibers) present in SLONM‐MGUS (p < 0.01). HLA‐ABC expression and fine granular p62 were observed in 66.7% and 78.3% of SLONM, respectively. The predominant inflammatory cells were CD68+ cells. The inflammatory cells showed positive correlations with the percentage of nemaline‐containing fibers (p < 0.001). In conclusion, inflammatory features are present although rather mild in SLONM. This finding contributes to the hypothesis of an acquired inflammatory disease pathogenesis and opens the possibility to offer immunotherapy in SLONM with inflammatory features regardless of the monoclonal gammopathy status.
Temporal resource partitioning mitigates interspecific competition and promotes coexistence among insect parasites
Authors: Hood Glen Ray , Blankinship Devin , Doellman Meredith M. , Feder Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2021

A key to understanding life's great diversity is discerning how competing organisms divide limiting resources to coexist in diverse communities. While temporal resource partitioning has long been hypothesized to reduce the negative effects of interspecific competition, empirical evidence suggests that time may not often be an axis along which animal species routinely subdivide resources. Here, we present evidence to the contrary in the world's most biodiverse group of animals: insect parasites (parasitoids). Specifically, we conducted a meta‐analysis of 64 studies from 41 publications to determine if temporal resource partitioning via variation in the timing of a key life‐history trait, egg deposition (oviposition), mitigates interspecific competition between species pairs sharing the same insect host. When competing species were manipulated to oviposit at (or near) the same time in or on a single host in the laboratory, competition was common, and one species was typically inherently superior (i.e. survived to adulthood a greater proportion of the time). In most cases, however, the inferior competitor could gain a survivorship advantage by ovipositing earlier (or in a smaller number of cases later) into shared hosts. Moreover, this positive (or in a few cases negative) priority advantage gained by the inferior competitor increased as the interval between oviposition times became greater. The results from manipulative experiments were also correlated with patterns of life‐history timing and demography in nature: the more inherently competitively inferior a species was in the laboratory, the greater the interval between oviposition times of taxa in co‐occurring populations. Additionally, the larger the interval between oviposition times of competing taxa, the more abundant the inferior species was in populations where competitors were known to coexist. Overall, our findings suggest that temporal resource partitioning via variation in oviposition timing may help to facilitate species coexistence and structures diverse insect communities by altering demographic measures of species success. We argue that the lack of evidence for a more prominent role of temporal resource partitioning in promoting species coexistence may reflect taxonomic differences, with a bias towards larger‐sized animals. For smaller species like parasitic insects that are specialized to attack one or a group of closely related hosts, have short adult lifespans and discrete generation times, compete directly for limited resources in small, closed arenas and have life histories constrained by host phenology, temporal resource subdivision via variation in life history may play a critical role in allowing species to coexist by alleviating the negative effects of interspecific competition.
Recent advances in pharmacological treatment of heart failure
Authors: Iacoviello Massimo , Palazzuoli Alberto , Gronda Edoardo
Published: May 2021

Background

Over the last years, several trials offered new evidence on heart failure (HF) treatment.

Design and results

For HF with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, type 2 sodium—glucose cotransporter inhibitors, aside from sacubitril—valsartan, demonstrated extraordinary efficacy in ameliorating patients' prognosis. Some new molecules (eg vericiguat, omecamtiv mecarbil and ferric carboxymaltose) correct iron deficiency and have shown to be capable of furthering reducing the burden of HF hospitalisation. Finally, there is new evidence on the possible therapeutic approaches of HF patients with mid‐range or preserved left ventricular ejection fraction.

Conclusions

This review aimed to revise the main novelties in the field of HF therapy and focus on how the daily clinical approach to patient treatment is changing.
Cardiac pre‐purchase examination in horses – evaluation, outcome and athletic follow‐up
Authors: ter Woort F. , Reef V. , Stefanovski D. , Slack J.
Published: May 2021

This retrospective study describes the clinical, echocardiographic and electrocardiographic data for 174 horses presented for a cardiac evaluation as part of their pre‐purchase examination (PPE). Follow‐up information regarding outcome and performance was obtained via interview and/or FEI records. The objectives of this study were to (1) describe the abnormalities found on cardiac pre‐purchase examinations (PPE), (2) assess whether athletic prognosis generated by comprehensive cardiovascular examination at the time of the PPE was predictive of cardiac limitations to intended athletic activity and (3) evaluate whether signalment, murmur characteristics, presence of an arrhythmia or final diagnosis could predict either the prognosis or cardiac limitations to performance. The majority of horses had mild disease or physiological murmurs/arrhythmias (142 horses). However, performance‐limiting conditions were found in 29 horses, and this included moderate or severe mitral and aortic regurgitation, cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, large ventricular septal defects, an aortocardiac fistula, atrial fibrillation, atrial tachycardia with second degree AV block and frequent ventricular premature complexes during exercise. Athletic prognosis was excellent in 142 horses (with 60 normal horses and 82 horses with mild disease and an excellent prognosis), fair in 18 horses and poor in 11 horses. Athletic outcome was analysed in 96 horses. Prognosis given at the time of the PPE was the only significant predictor of the athletic outcome. Signalment, auscultation findings and diagnosis were not significantly associated with prognosis or outcome. Comprehensive cardiac examinations in horses with murmurs and arrhythmias at the time of the pre‐purchase examination should be recommended and provide a unique opportunity to eliminate at‐risk horses from the sport.
Emerging roles of ferroptosis in the tumor immune landscape: from danger signals to anti‐tumor immunity
Authors: Shi Lei , Liu Yingqi , Li Menghuan , Luo Zhong
Published: May 2021

Regulated cell death (RCD) is a vital event in various physiological and pathological processes. Ferroptosis is a newly described RCD, which is driven by iron accumulation and unrestricted lipid peroxidation. The interaction between ferroptosis and immunity has been a topic of substantial interest since its discovery in 2012. It has become increasingly evident that ferroptosis is critically involved in the regulation of antitumor immunity and may provide potential strategies in immunotherapy. Ferroptosis could release various damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) or lipid metabolites to regulate the cellular immune response, validating its role as a form of immunogenic cell death (ICD). Specifically, the oxygenated membrane lipids on ferroptotic cells could mediate the phagocytosis by macrophages to maintain the immune responses. Additionally, immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy may sensitize cancer cells to ferroptosis, while ferroptosis might contribute to tumor immune evasion by directly interfering with the function of various immune cells. Based on these insights, we provided a comprehensive review on the interaction patterns between ferroptosis and immunity, which may not only offer insight into the underlying regulatory mechanisms but also facilitating the development of ferroptosis‐based antitumor therapeutics.
A novel three‐dimensionally printed model to assess biofilm removal by ultrasonically activated irrigation
Authors: Choi Min‐Ji , Kim Mi‐Ah , Choi Yoorina , Neelakantan Prasanna , Yu Mi‐Kyung , Min Kyung‐San
Published: May 2021

Aim

To apply an innovative three‐dimensionally printed tooth model to investigate the efficacy of three ultrasonically activated irrigation (UAI) systems in removing multispecies biofilms from dentine samples.

Methodology

Three‐dimensionally printed teeth with a curved root canal were fabricated with a standardized slot in the apical third of the root to achieve precision fit of human root dentine specimens. Multispecies biofilms including Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mitis and Campylobacter rectus were developed in the root canal for 21 days. The canals were allocated to be irrigated with 1% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) using a syringe and needle or ultrasonically activated NaOCl with a stainless‐steel file (Irrisafe), a conventional nickel‐titanium (Ni‐Ti) file (CK) or a blue heat‐treated Ni‐Ti file (Endosonic Blue). Infected root canals irrigated with distilled water served as controls. Bacterial reduction was determined by colony‐forming unit (CFU) counting (n = 20), whilst biofilms were analysed using confocal laser scanning microscopy (n = 7) and field emission scanning electron microscopy. For CFU counting, the independent two‐sample t‐test (Welch's t‐test) was examined to compare overall bacterial reduction amongst groups. For CLSM analysis, the data were analysed using one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the Scheffé post hoc test. The p‐values <.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance.

Results

All groups in which NaOCl was ultrasonically activated had significantly lower CFU values than the syringe‐and‐needle irrigation and control groups (p < .05). Ultrasonic activation with the stainless‐steel file and blue heat‐treated Ni‐Ti file significantly reduced the biofilm volume compared with other groups (p < .05). Overall, UAI with the blue heat‐treated file resulted in the highest antibacterial and biofilm removal efficacy.

Conclusions

UAI with different inserts had differential antibiofilm effects. The blue heat‐treated Ni‐Ti ultrasonic insert resulted in the greatest antibacterial and biofilm removal from dentine in this standardized root canal model.
Home and expatriate nurses’ perceptions of job satisfaction: Qualitative findings
Authors: Almansour Husam , Gobbi Mary , Prichard Jane
Published: May 2021

Aim

This paper is part of a larger doctoral study that investigated the impact of nationality on the job satisfaction of nurses and their intentions to leave Saudi Arabian government hospitals. The paper aims to gain an understanding of the impact of expatriate status on nurses’ perceptions, by comparing the factors that influence job satisfaction among Saudi nurses to those that affect nurses recruited from other countries.

Background

Job satisfaction is a known predictor of nurse retention. Although there is a broad understanding of the factors that affect job satisfaction, little is known about how these vary between home and expatriate nurses working in countries which rely on a multicultural migrant workforce.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative approach was taken, in which 26 semi‐structured interviews were conducted with nurses selected from different nationalities, all of whom were working in Saudi Arabian hospitals. Eight participants were Saudi Arabian, six Filipino, four Indian, four South African, two Jordanian and two Malaysian.

Findings

Five themes were identified that differentiated the perceptions of expatriates regarding their job satisfaction from those of the home nurses: separation from family, language and communication, fairness of remuneration, moving into the future and professionalism.

Conclusion

Focusing on the enhancement of job satisfaction experienced by expatriate nurses can result in a healthier work environment and greater retention of these nurses.

Implications for nursing and nursing policy

To enhance nurse retention, policy makers in countries with migrant nurses should address their socio‐economic needs. This includes providing both greater access to their dependent family members, and language lessons and cultural orientation to reduce linguistic and cultural challenges.
Natural variations of BrHISN2 provide a genetic basis for growth‐flavour trade‐off in different Brassica rapa subspecies
Authors: Su Tongbing , Wang Weihong , Li Peirong , Xin Xiaoyun , Yu Yangjun , Zhao Xiuyun , Zhang Deshuang , Yu Shuancang , Zhang Fenglan
Published: May 2021

Selection for yield during B. rapa breeding may have unintended consequences for other traits, such as flavour. LYH‐type (light yellow head) Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis) and wucai (Brassica rapa L. ssp. chinensis var. rosularis) varieties are becoming popular because of their unique flavour and yellow leaves. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the interplay for these traits remains unknown.

We conducted a fine mapping and genome‐wide exploration analysis of the leaf yellowing of LYH and wucai, including transgenic plants, to identify causal genes.

We identified that BrHISN2, a rate‐limiting enzyme in histidine biosynthesis, causes leaf yellowing by destroying LYH chloroplasts. Normal growing Brhisn2 mutant plants became etiolated and senesced at the cotyledon‐seedling stage. Sequence variations in the promoter confers cold‐dependent expression on BrHISN2, probably resulting in leaf yellowing in LYH and wucai. Insertions of two DRE cis elements and the subsequent recruitment of two CBF2 proteins by the DREs to the promoter provided the cold‐induced expression plasticity of BrHISN2 in plants. Both LYH and wucai are farmed in the fall, in which the temperature gradually decreases, therefore the CBF2‐BrHISN2 module probably maximises the benefits of gene–environment interaction for breeding.

We determined the mechanistic connections of chlorophyll synthesis and the growth‐flavour trade‐off in these B. rapa varieties.
The effectiveness of using targeted grazing for vegetation management: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Marchetto Katherine M. , Wolf Tiffany M. , Larkin Daniel J.
Published: May 2021

The use of targeted grazing to control undesired plants as a component of ecological restoration is gaining in popularity, but there is considerable uncertainty among land managers about the effectiveness of this approach. We synthesized existing literature on the use of livestock (ruminants, swine, and equids) to control undesired plants using a meta‐analysis to address questions about the effectiveness of the approach. Seventy studies matched our inclusion criteria; these comprised 86% peer‐reviewed journal articles and 14% gray literature. Studies were conducted in 17 countries but highly concentrated in the United States and Europe. Cattle, goats, horses, and sheep were used for vegetation management in the studies. Most target plant species were nonnative perennial forbs. Median study duration was 3 years, with a maximum of 10 years. We found that, overall, the use of targeted grazing significantly reduced undesired plants and significantly increased plant species richness. However, several important questions remain. In particular, further research is needed to differentiate temporary defoliation from actual plant mortality, to separate the contributions of native versus nonnative species to gains in plant species richness, and to address longer term outcomes following grazing cessation.
Identification of restoration species for early roadcut slope regeneration using functional group approach
Authors: Park Shinyeong , Kim Jae Hyun , Byun Chaeho , Hong Suk Young , Lee Eun Ju
Published: May 2021

Current restoration protocols for roadside cut slopes in South Korea involve hydroseeding with exotic species to achieve early greening and soil stabilization. However, exotic species can negatively affect adjacent native ecosystems. This study investigated the functional traits of early colonizers in slope restoration and surrounding environments to inform restoration methods that generate similar communities as those of native ecosystems. Slope vegetation (species density, species cover, upperstory species, canopy cover) and environment (aspect, angle, soil properties) were surveyed from the road edge to the forest boundary, and were classified as three distinct zones: a hydroseeded slope, a transition zone, and the forest edge. Naturally occurring species were classified into functional groups to examine dominant traits during early colonization. Hemicryptophyte or geophyte forest species and forest interior woody species were well established and dominant in transition zones and cut slopes. Potential native species for slope restoration can be identified by examining functional group species in the adjacent forest. These native species can achieve restoration goals and block invasive species in the same functional group. Festuca arundinacea (tall fescue), which is reported as an invasive alien species, rapidly spread after introduction for restoration. Thus, continuous monitoring for impact on native communities is required after sowing invasive alien species. Future slope restoration should consider native woody species and perennial forest sedge species that develop rhizomes, and reconsider the use of tall fescue. This study indicates that cut slopes can be appropriately managed to enhance the quality of habitats for native species.
After the Financial Crisis: The Evolution of the Global Income Distribution Between 2008 and 2013
Authors: Milanovic Branko
Published: May 2021

Using the newly created, and in terms of coverage and detail, the most complete household income data from more than 130 countries, the paper analyzes the changes in the global income distribution between 2008 and 2013. This was the period of the global financial crisis and recovery. It is shown that global inequality continued to decline, largely due to China’s and India’s high growth rates that explain about two‐thirds of the global Gini decrease between 2008 and 2013. Income growth of the global top 1 percent slowed significantly. The slowdown is present even after survey data are corrected for the likely underestimation of highest incomes.
How divided is the attitudinal context for policymaking? Changes in public attitudes to the welfare state, inequality and immigration over two decades in Britain
Authors: Cooper Kerris , Burchardt Tania
Published: May 2021

If public attitudes towards the welfare state, inequality and immigration are becoming increasingly polarized, as recent political events might suggest, the space for progressive social policies is more constrained. Using data from the British Social Attitudes Survey (BSA) spanning 23years, we analyse trends in these attitudes, examining whether there has been divergence between those who have been more and less exposed to disadvantage through changes in the economy and the welfare state across more than two decades. Taken in this longer term context, and examining characteristics not previously considered in relation to public attitudes such as lone parenthood and disability, we find little evidence of polarization in attitudes to welfare, inequality and immigration and even some evidence of attitudinal gaps narrowing. We conclude that given this lack of division, there may be greater room for more pro‐welfare and progressive policies than the prevalent narrative of polarization suggests.
International activities and innovation: Evidence from Italy with a special regressor approach
Authors: Iandolo Stefano , Ferragina Anna
Published: May 2021

By using panel data on Italian manufacturing firms, this paper contributes to the literature on the nexus between firms’ internationalisation and innovation performance, taking into account the impact of different internationalisation strategies (with a focus on exports, foreign direct investments and outsourcing) on firms’ product and process innovation. Being robust to the implementation of different and complementary methodologies (impact evaluation analysis, multivariate probit and a special regressor approach to instrumental variables), our results suggest that accessing foreign markets through the different strategies considered may ensure different returns in terms of both types of innovation. We find evidence in support of the learning‐by‐exporting literature since exporting shows positive effects on the probability of carrying out both product and process innovation. Moreover, while investing abroad enhances product innovation, suggesting a more market‐seeking oriented strategy (i.e. rather than resource‐seeking), on the contrary, outsourcing raises the probability of introducing process innovation. Our results may prompt further reflections on public policies and on incentives for supporting domestic firms’ internationalisation.
THE INFLUENCE OF MINERALOGICAL COMPOSITION ON THE ADSORPTION CAPACITY OF HEAVY METALS SOLUTION BY JAVA NATURAL CLAY, INDONESIA
Authors: Budianta Wawan
Published: May 2021

The adsorption capacity of four clay samples (Boyolali-BYL, Sleman-SLM, Gunungkidul-GK, and Pacitan-PCT) from Java, Indonesia, for copper (Cu) lead (Pb), zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) solution was investigated by using batch equilibrium test. The adsorption data were presented using an isotherm curve, and adjusted to the Langmuir equation model, which produced the maximum adsorption capacity of the clay samples. The physical, chemical, and mineralogical analysis showed that the BYL and PCT samples have higher montmorillonite content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and specific surface area (SSA) compared to SLM and GK clay samples. The batch equilibrium test revealed that the clay samples with higher montmorillonite content produced higher heavy metal adsorption capacity due to the higher cation exchange capacity (CEC), and specific surface area (SSA). The batch equilibrium test also show that the adsorption order for the metals cations followed the selectivity order Cu2+ > Pb2+ > Zn2+ >Cd2+. The Langmuir model resulted in the adsorption processes, offering maximum adsorption capacities from 196.08 to 769.23 mg/g for Cu, 217.39 to 416.67 mg/g for Pb, 106.38 to 114.94 mg/g for Zn and 104.17 to 113.24 mg/g for Cd of four clay samples studied. The highest adsorption capacity was achieved for the BYL sample. The lowest was the GK sample, in which the order of the maximum adsorption capacity of clay samples was BYL > PCT > SLM > GK sample. This research indicated that the proportion of montmorillonite content in the clay samples affected the maximum adsorption capacity of the heavy metal in the solution.
Teacher Character across Levels of Study: Application of the 5 M Concept / Watak Pendidik Merentas Tahap Pengajian: Aplikasi konsep 5 M
Authors: Muhamad Nurul Asiah Fasehah , Jaafar Noornajihan
Published: May 2021

Islamic Education Teachers have a great responsibility and role in ensuring that the Islamic Education Philosophy and the National Education Philosophy are achieved. As a catalyst for both philosophies, the educational process that should be pursued is the process of ta'dib which is the process of cultivating manners. Through the era of globalization without borders and the ever-increasing turmoil of science, society is exposed to the collapse of manners. As such, the role of GPI is increasingly challenging. Therefore, this study aims to propose a GPI character that is relevant to the study based on the recommendation of the Ta'dib Al-Attas Model and the 5 MIM Teaching Model Ab. Halim Tamuri et al. The findings of this study show that there is a focus on GPI's character based on the level of education by always putting the vision of Muaddib as the foremost. This study has implications for Islamic Education Teachers and GPI educators.
CRISPR diagnostics
Authors: Abudayyeh Omar O. , Gootenberg Jonathan S.
Published: May 2021

New CRISPR enzyme activities add to the nucleic acid detection arsenal
Sensitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Detection of Antibodies Against Typhus Rickettsiae,
Rickettsia prowazekii
and
Rickettsia typhi
Authors: Halle Sidney , Dasch Gregory A. , Weiss Emilio
Published: May 2021

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been developed for the titration of rickettsial antibodies in human and animal sera. Two preparations of soluble typhus-group antigens were obtained from
Rickettsia typhi
and
Rickettsia prowazekii
by ether extraction: a standard antigen from infected yolk sacs (YS antigen) and one free of yolk sac contaminants from Renografin-purified rickettsiae (PR antigen). Rabbit, mouse, and guinea pig sera were obtained by immunization with viable purified
R. typhi
or
R. prowazekii
. Human sera were obtained from individuals who had recovered from laboratory infections with either typhus rickettsia months or years previously. Goat-derived anti-immunoglobulins were conjugated to alkaline phosphatase with glutaraldehyde. Although the PR and YS antigens gave equivalent antibody titers in the complement fixation test, the PR antigen was clearly superior in the ELISA. With this antigen, the titration curves of all antisera were linear over a wider range of serum concentrations and the titers were higher than with the YS antigen. With YS and PR antigens, ELISA titers were higher than those obtained by complement fixation by one and two orders of magnitude, respectively. In human sera, immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M antibodies were demonstrated by their respective anti-immunoglobulins and by differential susceptibility to ethanethiol. ELISA titers showed some type specificity, whereas none was observed in complement fixation tests. The ELISA is highly sensitive, reproducible, and easily adaptable to the various requirements of clinical and research laboratories.
Methyl mercaptan and dimethyl disulfide production from methionine by Proteus species detected by head-space gas-liquid chromatography
Authors: Hayward N J , Jeavons T H , Nicholson A J , Thornton A G
Published: May 2021

Head-space gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry were used to detect and identify products formed by Proteus vulgaris, P. mirabilis, P. morganii, and P. rettgeri from a defined medium supplemented with either phenylalanine, methionine, valine, leucine, histidine, lysine, ornithine, threonine, asparagine, aspartic acid, or tryptophan. In a detailed study of the products formed by 68 strains of Proteus spp. from L-methionine, the production of large amounts of both dimethyl disulfide and methyl mercaptan was found to be a characteristic of the genus. Both sulfur products appeared within a few hours of inoculation. Dimethyl disulfide was a more sensitive indicator of growth than the spectrometric determination of optical density. This suggests that it could be useful for the rapid, automated detection of any species of Proteus.
Early detection of chlamydial inclusions combining the use of cycloheximide-treated McCoy cells and immunofluorescence staining
Authors: Thomas B J , Evans R T , Hutchinson G R , Taylor-Robinson D
Published: May 2021

Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis inclusions only 21 h after a specimen reaches the laboratory has been achieved by the combined use of cycloheximide-treated McCoy cells and immunofluorescence staining. Moreover, cells exposed to cycloheximide were more sensitive for detecting chlamydial inclusions than those pretreated by irradiation, since larger numbers of inclusions were found in the former cells. The application of this rapid and sensitive method allows a diagnosis of chlamydial infection to be made before antibiotic therapy is started. In this way, it should enable the treatment of nonspecific genital infections to be placed on a more rational basis.
Effect of freezing on the viability of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in bovine feces
Authors: Richards W D , Thoen C O
Published: May 2021

Three bovine fecal specimens were cultured for Mycobacterium paratuberculosis before freezing and after frozen storage at -70 degrees C for 3 and 15 weeks. The losses in viability from 0 to 3 weeks of storage were significant (P = 0.01) for all three samples. The losses in viability between 3 and 15 weeks of storage were not significant (P greater than 0.05) for two specimens in which the M. paratuberculosis occurred naturally, but the loss was significant (P = 0.01) in a simulated specimen (M. paratuberculosis culture added to feces from a healthy cow).
Evaluation of a caffeic acid-ferric citrate test for rapid identification of Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Wang H S , Zeimis R T , Roberts G D
Published: May 2021

An evaluation of a rapid caffeic acid-ferric citrate paper disk test for the identification of Cryptococcus neoformans, using 474 isolates of yeasts and yeastlike organisms, showed that 96.6, 97.7, and 98.3% of 176 isolates of C. neoformans produced brown to dark-brown pigment on disks incubated for 6 h at room temperature, 30 degrees C, and 37 degrees C, respectively. All C. neoformans produced brown to dark-brown pigment within 24 h. However, nonspecific pigmentation was encountered at all temperatures of incubation with one isolate of Trichosporon cutaneum and, at room temperature only, with one isolate of C. luteolus after 6 h. Other genera of yeasts produced similar pigmentation after 24 h at all temperatures. The age of the cultures tested or the types of media used before testing did not significantly affect the ability of C. neoformans to produce pigmentation at 37 degrees C. A positive test may prove useful for presumptive identification of C. neoformans, but a negative reaction should not be used to rule out an identification of this yeast. Since a number of false-negative and false-positive tests occur, it is necessary to confirm, by other biochemical tests, the identification of all organisms suspected of being C. neoformans, to reduct the serious risk of missing or misidentifying this important pathogen.