bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a new simple biomarker of adult onset Still’s disease: A STROBE-Compliant prospective observational study
Authors: Daghor Abbaci Karima , Ait Hamadouche Nadia , Otmani Fifi , Dahou Makhloufi Chafia , Mechid Farida , Makrelouf Mohamed , Otmane Amel , Smail Nourredine , Boucelma Malika , Aissat Fatma Zohra , Lefkir-Teffiani Salima , Bengana Bilel , Boukheris Nadia , Tebaibia Amar , Taharbouchet Baya , Ayoub Soraya , Benziane Brahim , Oumnia Nadia , Haouichet Chafika , Hanni Fella , Laraba Nazim , Hakem Djennete , Benfenatki Nacera , Berrah Abdelkrim
Published: August 2022

This study was performed to investigate the role of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in the diagnosis of adult onset Still disease (AOSD) and its performance to improve the sensitivity of the classifications criteria (Yamaguchi and Fautrel Classifications).

We conducted a multicenter prospective nationwide case-control study in Internal medicine, Rheumatology and Infectious disease departments, to include successively patients with suspected AOSD (2 or more major criteria of Yamaguchi or Fautrel classifications). All clinical and biological features were collected in a consensual and standardized clinical assessment at baseline and during follow-up. A receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to reassess the cutoff value of NLR. After determination of the cutoff value for NLR by ROC curve, 2 composite sets (Yamaguchi classification + NLR as a major criterion and Fautrel classification + NLR as a major criterion) were performed and evaluated.

One hundred sixty patients were included, 80 patients with AOSD and 60 controls with different diagnoses. Twenty patients with incomplete data were excluded. The cutoff value for NLR equals 4 (area under the curve, AUC: 0.82). The NLR was ≥ 4 in 93.7% (75/80) of AOSD patients with a sensitivity of 93.8% and specificity of 61.7%. The association of NLR as a major criterion with the classification of Yamaguchi or Fautrel improved their sensitivity, respectively for Fautrel (76.3% to 92.5%, P = .004) and Yamaguchi (78.8% to 90%, P = .05).

This study validates the NLR as a good simple biomarker of AOSD with a cutoff value of 4 and high sensitivity (93.8%). The addition of NLR (NLR ≥ 4) as a major criterion to the classifications (Yamaguchi and Fautrel) improved significantly their sensitivity and accuracy.
Evaluating treatment strategies for non–small cell lung cancer during COVID-19: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Yu Minhao , Cheng Yalin , Zhang Renfei , Wen Tao , Huai Sitao , Wei Xiubo , Zhang Liming
Published: August 2022

We employed pandemic treatment strategies that we developed at the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and it was not clear whether any adverse results were associated with our strategies. Therefore, we carried out a retrospective study to compare our pandemic treatment strategies with prepandemic protocols to determine whether the strategies used during the high-risk period of COVID-19 were appropriate. The observation period was September 2019 to February 2020. Patients hospitalized from December 2019 to February 2020 were included as an experimental group, and individuals hospitalized from September 2019 to November 2019 were included as a control group. All non–small cell lung cancer patients hospitalized during the observation period were included except for pediatric and obstetric patients, patients younger than 18 years old, and patients admitted only for routine follow-up examinations. Treatment strategies were evaluated based on the prognosis of the different treatment methods, including surgical and nonsurgical treatments and discontinuation of therapy. Survival curves were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Cox regression analysis was used for multivariate analysis of risk factors for progress-free survival. Propensity score matching was used for clinical characteristics to adjust for selection bias. Therapy discontinuation in the experimental group was significantly higher than in the control group (P < .001). The differences in cancer progression and the number of deaths between the 2 groups were not significant (P = .38 and .13, respectively). For late-stage patients, there were significant differences in nonsurgical treatment and discontinued therapy (P < .001 and < .001, respectively) between the 2 groups, while the cancer progression and death toll differences were not significant (P = .20 and .20, respectively). For early-stage patients, the differences in surgical treatment, discontinued therapy, cancer progression, and death toll were not significant (P = .24, 0.24, 0.61, and 0.49, respectively) between the 2 groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that temporary discontinuation of therapy did not predict poor progress-free survival independently (hazard ratio = 1.007, 95% confidence interval: 0.653–1.552, P = .98). For patients in geographical regions with a high risk for COVID-19 infections, temporarily suspending treatment for late-stage non–small cell lung cancer patients is not likely to significantly impact their prognosis if they can return to treatment within 3 months of discontinuation.
Pulmonary cryptococcosis after recovery from COVID-19 in an immunocompetent patient: A rare case report
Authors: Choi Hye Sook
Published: August 2022

Rationale:

Cryptococcus neoformans (C neoformans) infection typically occurs in immunocompromised patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or those taking immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroids, or chemotherapy. Recently, there have been an increasing number of reports of cryptococcosis as opportunistic infections in COVID-19 patients, all of which have been related to immunocompromising conditions, underlying medical diseases, immune suppression drugs, or corticosteroids. Here, we report the first case of pulmonary cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent patient with a history of COVID-19 who had no history of underlying diseases or immune modulation drugs.

Patient concerns:

A previously healthy 46-year-old man presented with tiny lung nodules. He had quit smoking 6 years prior. He had no significant medical history except for COVID-19 3 months prior, and had not received corticosteroids or cytokine blockers when he had COVID-19. He had been coughing since he recovered from COVID-19.

Diagnosis:

Bronchoalveolar lavage cultures showed the growth of C neoformans. A CT-guided percutaneous needle biopsy of the lung lesion was performed. Histopathology of the biopsy specimen showed granulomas with encapsulated yeast. There was no growth of C neoformans in the CSF or blood. He was diagnosed with pulmonary cryptococcosis.

Intervention:

Antifungal drug (fluconazole) was administered for 6 months in the outside clinic.

Outcomes:

The lung lesions disappeared after 6 months medication.

Lessons:

This case may illustrate the risk of pulmonary cryptococcosis after SARS-CoV-2 infection in an immunocompetent patient. Opportunistic infections can occur even after recovery from COVID-19 for several reasons. First, SARS-CoV-2 infection causes immune dysregulation including lymphocytopenia. Second, T lymphocytes play a principal role against Cryptococcus. Third, these changes in the immune system due to COVID-19 may last for several weeks. Thus, we suggest careful consideration of lung lesions in patients with a history of COVID-19.
Role of T follicular helper and T follicular regulatory cells in antibody-mediated rejection: new therapeutic targets?
Authors: Zhang Hengcheng , Sage Peter T.
Published: August 2022

Purpose of review

Antibody-mediated rejection (AbMR) after solid organ transplantation is tightly controlled by multiple cells of the immune system. Tfh and Tfr cells are essential controllers of antibody responses making them putative targets for therapeutics. However, the mechanisms of how Tfh and Tfr cells regulate B cell and antibody responses are not completely understood. Here, we summarize recent studies elucidating the functions of T follicular helper (Tfh) and T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells as well as their possible roles in regulating AbMR in solid organ transplantation.

Recent findings

New tools have been developed to study the roles of Tfh and Tfr cells in specific disease states, including AbMR after solid organ transplantation. These tools suggest complex roles for Tfh and Tfr cells in controlling antibody responses. Nevertheless, studies in solid organ transplant rejection suggest that Tfh and Tfr cells may be high value targets for therapeutics. However, specific strategies to target these cells are still being investigated.

AbMR is still a substantial clinical problem that restricts long-term survival after solid organ transplantation. Growing evidence has demonstrated a pivotal role for Tfh and Tfr cells in controlling AbMR. In addition to providing an early indication of rejection as a biomarker, targeting Tfh and Tfr cells as a therapeutic strategy offers new hope for alleviating AbMR.
Saccharothrix obliqua sp. nov., isolated from soil of Sichang Island, Thailand
Authors: Azad Md. Abul Kalam , Chunhacha Preedakorn , Suriyachadkun Chanwit , Sripreechasak Paranee , Tanasupawat Somboon , Phongsopitanun Wongsakorn
Published: August 2022

During an investigation of rare actinobacteria, isolate SC076T was isolated from a soil sample collected from Sichang Island, Chonburi Province, Thailand. The strain showed the highest 16S rRNA gene similarity to

Saccharothrix australiensis

DSM 43800T (98.6%) and

Saccharothrix espanaensis

DSM 44229T (98.6%). The zigzag morphology of the spore chain was observed on the aerial mycelia. meso-Diaminopimelic acid was detected in the peptidoglycan. Whole-cell sugars contained rhamnose, ribose, mannose glucose and galactose. Polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, hydroxyphosphatidylethanolamine, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside, phosphatidylinositol, unidentified ninhydrin-positive glycolipid, unidentified glycolipid and four unidentified lipids. The menaquinones were MK-9(H8), MK-9(H4), MK-9(H2) and MK-9(H0). The predominant fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0, iso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. The draft genome of SC076T was 8040245 bp with a G+C content of 72.5 mol%. The results of genomic analysis between strain SC076T and the related type strains showed that the digital DNA–DNA hybridization and average nucleotide identity values among the strains were 23.6-32.8% and 77.7–86.8 %, respectively, which are lower than the thresholds used to distinguish strains from others of the same species. Based on the taxonomic evidence, strain SC076T represents a novel species of the genus

Saccharothrix

for which the name Saccharothrix obliqua sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SC076T (=TBRC 14540T=NBRC 115117T).
Stratification of responses to tDCS intervention in a healthy paediatric population based on resting-state EEG profiles
Authors: Dagnino Paulina Clara , Braboszcz Claire , Kroupi Eleni , Splittgerber Maike , Brauer Hannah , Dempfle Astrid , Breitling-Ziegler Carolin , Prehn-Kristensen Alexander , Krauel Kerstin , Siniatchkin Michael , Moliadze Vera , Soria-Frisch Aureli
Published: August 2022

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique with a wide variety of applications in both the clinical and cognitive psychology domains. As increasingly acknowledged, its effectiveness is subject dependent, which may lead to timely and costly treatments with ineffective results if this variability is not taken into account. We propose the usage of electroencephalography (EEG) for the analysis and prediction of individual responses to tDCS. In this context the application of machine learning can be of enormous help.

We analysed resting-state EEG activity to identify subgroups of participants with an homogeneous electrophysiological profile and their response to different tDCS interventions. The study described herein, which focuses on healthy controls, was conducted within a clinical trial for the development of treatments based on tDCS for age-matched children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

We have studied a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled tDCS intervention in 56 healthy children and adolescents aged 10-17, applied in 2 parallel groups over 2 target regions, namely left Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (lDLPFC) and right Inferior Frontal Gyrus (rIFG). Cognitive behavioural tasks were used to both activate particular brain areas during the stimulation and to assess the impact of the intervention afterwards. We have implemented an unsupervised learning approach to stratify participants based on their resting-state EEG spectral features before the tDCS application. We have then applied a correlational analysis to identify EEG profiles associated with tDCS subject response to the specific stimulation sites and the presence or not of concurrent tasks during the intervention.

In the results we found specific digital electrophysiological profiles that can be associated to a positive response, whereas subjects with other profiles respond negatively or do not respond to the intervention. Findings suggest that unsupervised machine learning procedures, when associated with proper visualization features, can be successfully used to interpret and eventually to predict responses of individuals to tDCS treatment.
Beneficial Effects of Bempedoic Acid Treatment in Polycystic Kidney Disease Cells and Mice
Authors: Hallows Kenneth R. , Li Hui , Saitta Biagio , Sepehr Saman , Huang Polly , Pham Jessica , Wang Jonathan , Mancino Valeria , Chung Eun Ji , Pinkosky Stephen L. , Pastor-Soler Núria M.
Published: August 2022

ADPKD has few therapeutic options. Tolvaptan slows disease but has side effects limiting its tolerability. Bempedoic acid (BA), an ATP citrate-lyase (ACLY) inhibitor FDA-approved for hypercholesterolemia, catalyzes a key step in fatty acid/sterol synthesis important for cell proliferation. BA is activated by very long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase (FATP2) expressed primarily in kidney and liver. BA also activates AMPK. We hypothesized that BA could be a novel ADPKD therapy by inhibiting cyst growth, proliferation, injury, and metabolic dysregulation via ACLY inhibition and AMPK activation.Pkd1-null kidney cell lines derived from mouse proximal tubule (PT) and collecting duct (IMCD) were grown in 2D or 3D Matrigel cultures and treated ± BA, ± SB-204990 (another ACLY inhibitor) or withAclyshRNA before cyst analysis, immunoblotting or mitochondrial assays using MitoSox and MitoTracker staining.Pkd1fl/fl;Pax8-rtTA;Tet-O-CreC57BL/6J mice were induced with doxycycline injection on postnatal days 10 and 11 (P10-P11) and then treated ± BA (30 mg/kg/d) ± tolvaptan (30-100 mg/kg/d) by gavage from P12-21. Disease severity was determined by % total-kidney-weight-to-bodyweight (%TKW/BW) and BUN levels at euthanasia (P22). Kidney and liver homogenates were immunoblotted for expression of key biomarkers. ACLY expression and activity were upregulated inPkd1-null PT and IMCD-derived cells vs. controls. Relative to controls, both BA and SB-204990 inhibited cystic growth inPkd1-null kidney cells, as didAclyknockdown. BA inhibited mitochondrial superoxide production and promoted mitochondrial elongation, suggesting improved mitochondrial function. In ADPKD mice, BA reduced %TKW/BW and BUN to a similar extent as tolvaptan vs. untreated controls. Addition of BA to tolvaptan caused a further reduction in %TKW/BW and BUN vs. tolvaptan alone. BA generally reduced ACLY and stimulated AMPK activity in kidneys and livers vs. controls. BA also inhibited mTOR and ERK signaling and reduced kidney injury markers. In liver, BA treatment, both alone and together with tolvaptan, increased mitochondrial biogenesis while inhibiting apoptosis. We conclude that BA and ACLY inhibition inhibited cyst growth in vitro, and BA decreased ADPKD severity in vivo. Combining BA with tolvaptan further improved various ADPKD disease parameters. Repurposing BA may be a promising new ADPKD therapy, having beneficial effects alone and along with tolvaptan.
Exploring patterns of taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic β-diversity variation of Neotropical small mammals in a highly fragmented landscape
Authors: Hannibal Wellington , Leme da Cunha Nicolay
Published: August 2022

Diversity can be partitioned in several components and dimensions that are affected in different ways by habitat loss and fragmentation. However, these partitions and dimensions are rarely investigated on human-modified landscapes. In this study, we investigated different partitions (Hill numbers) and dimensions (taxonomic [TβD], functional [FβD] and phylogenetic [PβD]) of small mammal β-diversity in a fragmented landscape of central Brazil using a multi-scale approach. TβD was estimated considering rare, common and abundant species. Tolerance to disturbed habitat, assessed via the traits “habitat use”, “tail length” and “use of vertical strata”, and trophic guild, defined by the “diet”, were used to estimate FβD. PβD was based on phylogenetic relatedness of the sampled species. The association between different partitions and dimensions of β-diversity with habitat and landscape attributes were investigated using Mantel tests. We found a significant positive effect of geographical distance on all partitions and dimensions of β-diversity. NDVI was the second most important variable affecting abundance based TβD, and all phylogenetic and functional β-diversity dimensions. Habitat characteristics, such as fallen logs and canopy cover were positively associated with all β-diversity dimensions. Our findings support the hypothesis that even in a highly modified landscape, small mammal’s β-diversity is determined by different environmental factors and spatial disposition of forest patches. However, the relatively higher importance of space appears to be related to dispersal limitation of this group.
A reductase in the lipid metabolism at cross roads between cuticular wax production and jasmonic acid-mediated defenses in maize
Authors: Liu Jiong , Li Lu , Robert Christelle AM , Li Baozhu , He Shan , Xiong Zhilong , Chen Wenjie , Bi Jiasheng , Zhai Guanqing , Guo Siyi , Zhang Hui , Li Jieping , Zhou Shutang , Zhang Xi , Song Chun-Peng
Published: August 2022

Cuticular wax is the first physical layer to protect plants from herbivore infestations. Although wax and jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis are the two most studied branches of lipid metabolism, the mechanism how cuticular wax production modulates plant chemical defenses is unclear. Here, we show that the maize (Zea mays)GL8gene, encoding 3-ketoacyl reductase during fatty acid elongation in the biosynthesis of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA), functions as a turning point between wax production and JA-mediated defenses. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) larvae consumed more tissue but gained a lower performance ongl8/Ye478mutant plants.gl8/Ye478mutant displayed higher JA-mediated defenses constitutively, and also more inducible by herbivore stimulation. The comprehensive transcriptomic and lipidomic analyses further demonstrated that ZmGL8mutation up-regulates the JA biosynthesis pathway by promoting the accumulation of lysophospholipids and modulation of galactolipid synthase genesZmDGDandZmMGD. The phenotypic and transcription comparisons of the maize and Arabidopsis wax-deficient mutants suggest a conserved wide-spread trade-off between wax production and chemical defense in both 18:3 and 16:3 plants. These results illustrate a critical role of VLCFA metabolism as a switch to control the balance between cuticular wax physical barrier and JA-mediated chemical defenses during plant-herbivore coevolution history.
Development of a novel aging clock based on chromatin accessibility
Authors: Rechsteiner Cheyenne , Morandini Francesco , Perez Kevin , Praz Viviane , López-García Guillermo , Hinte Laura , Meyenn Ferdinand von , Ocampo Alejandro
Published: August 2022

The establishment of aging clocks based on age-associated changes in DNA methylation has highlighted the strong link between epigenetic alterations and aging. However, the connection between DNA methylation changes at clock sites and their effect on cellular function remains unclear. We hypothesize that chromatin accessibility, a readout that integrates multiple epigenetic mechanisms, may connect epigenetic changes with downstream biological effects. To investigate this hypothesis, we generated chromatin accessibility profiles from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 157 human donors and construct a novel aging clock with a median absolute error on prediction of 5.69 years. Moreover, by comparing our chromatin accessibility data to matched transcriptomic profiles, we show that the genomic sites selected for the prediction of age based on chromatin accessibility undergo transcriptional changes during aging. This chromatin accessibility clock could therefore be used to investigate the direct effect of aged epigenetic states on cellular function.
The capacity to configure the hymenophore is not confined to the pore field in Oak mazegill (Daedalea quercina, Polyporales)
Authors: Jensen Bjarke
Published: August 2022

Configuring of the hymenophore of basidiocarps of Polyporales is thought to happen in the pore field immediately behind the basidiocarp margin. Basidiocarp growth is not restricted to the margin, however. Here, the importance of the pore field was assessed from observations on naturally occurring Oak mazegill (Polyporales, Daedalea quercina) basidiocarps and tested by experimental perturbations in natural habitats that were monitored for two years. Oak mazegill was chosen because the formed hymenophore has a unique and stable combination of poroid and lamellate features. Whether the pore field is required for basidiocarp growth was tested in ten basidiocarps in which one side was resected. New growth was observed in six basidiocarps and it occurred equally from the cut hymenophore and the intact pore field. New formation of hymenophore and pileus even occurred in seven out of ten basidiocarps that had the entire pore field resected. Whether the hymenophore is configured permanently, was tested on 54 basidiocarps on ten trunks that were turned upside-down. A new hymenophore grew through the old pileus, often far from the pore field, and its hymenophore configuration was invariably poroid despite the old hymenophore had lamellate features. In 48 experimentally banded basidiocarps, new hymenophore grew in the insertion hole of the band despite this being far from the pore field. The banded basidiocarps grew at an average rate of 5 mm per year. In conclusion, the capacity to configure the hymenophore is not confined to the pore field and it may be broadly present in the basidiocarp.

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract. The configuring of the hymenophore of polypore fungi is thought to be driven by the pore field immediately behind the basidiocarp margin. The experiments on Oak mazegill basidiocarps reported here, including the complete resection of the margin and its pore field, do not support this notion. They suggest instead that the capacity to form the hymenophore is broadly present in the basidiocarp.
Relating pathogenic loss-of function mutations in humans to their evolutionary fitness costs
Authors: Agarwal Ipsita , Fuller Zachary L , Myers Simon , Przeworski Molly
Published: August 2022

Causal loss-of-function (LOF) variants for Mendelian and severe complex diseases are enriched in “mutation intolerant” genes. We show how such observations can be interpreted in light of a model of mutation-selection balance, and use the model to relate the pathogenic consequences of LOF mutations at present-day to their evolutionary fitness effects. To this end, we first infer posterior distributions for the fitness costs of LOF mutations in 17,322 autosomal and 679 X-linked genes from exome sequences in 56,855 individuals. Estimated fitness costs for the loss of a gene copy are typically above 1%; they tend to be largest for X-linked genes, whether or not they have a Y homolog, followed by autosomal genes and genes in the pseudoautosomal region. We then compare inferred fitness effects for all possible de novo LOF mutations to those of de novo mutations identified in individuals diagnosed with one of six severe, complex diseases or developmental disorders. Probands carry an excess of mutations with estimated fitness effects above 10%; as we show by simulation, such highly deleterious mutations are typically only a couple of generations old when sampled in the population. Moreover, the proportion of highly deleterious mutations carried by probands reflects the typical age of onset of the disease. The study design also has a discernible influence: a greater proportion of highly deleterious mutations is detected in pedigree than case-control studies, and for autism, in simplex than multiplex families and in female versus male probands. Thus, anchoring observations in human genetics to a population genetic model allows us to learn about the fitness effects of mutations identified by different mapping strategies and for different traits.
Organisation of the orthobunyavirus tripodal spike and the structural changes induced by low pH and K+ during entry
Authors: Hover Samantha , Charlton Frank W , Hellert Jan , Barr John N , Mankouri Jamel , Fontana Juan
Published: August 2022

Following internalisation, viruses employ the changing environment of maturing endosomes as cues to promote endosomal escape, a process mediated by viral glycoproteins. Specifically, we previously showed that both high [K+] and low pH promote entry of Bunyamwera virus (BUNV), the prototypical bunyavirus. Here, we used sub-tomogram averaging combined with AlphaFold, to generate a pseudo-atomic model of the whole glycoprotein envelope of BUNV. This allowed us to unambiguously locate the Gc fusion domain and its chaperone Gn within the floor domain of the spike. We also confirmed that low pH and high [K+] alters the viral glycoproteins, resulting in an activated intermediate state functionally-distinct from the highly ordered ground state, and we localize these changes to the floor domain. Biochemical data suggests that in this intermediate state the viral fusion loops are partially exposed and selectively interact with host cell membranes. Taken together, we reveal new mechanistic understanding of the requirements for virus entry.
Meiotic DNA exchanges are promoted by proximity to the synaptonemal complex
Authors: Almanzar David E. , Gordon Spencer G. , Bristow Chloe , Diezmann Lexy von , Rog Ofer
Published: August 2022

During meiosis, programmed double strand DNA breaks are repaired to form exchanges between the parental chromosomes called crossovers. Chromosomes lacking a crossover fail to segregate accurately into the gametes, leading to aneuploidy. Crossover formation requires the promotion of exchanges, rather than non-exchanges, as repair products. However, the mechanism underlying this meiosis-specific preference is not fully understood. Here, we study the regulation of meiotic sister chromatid exchanges in Caenorhabditis elegans by direct visualization. We find that a conserved chromosomal interface that promotes exchanges between the parental chromosomes, the synaptonemal complex, also promotes exchanges between the sister chromatids. In both cases, exchanges depend on recruitment of the same set of pro-exchange factors to repair sites. Surprisingly, while the synaptonemal complex usually assembles between the two DNA molecules undergoing an exchange, its activity does not rely on a specific chromosome conformation and it can also promote sister exchanges when assembling next to the sisters. This suggests that the synaptonemal complex regulates exchanges by establishing a nuclear domain conducive to nearby coalescence of exchange-promoting factors.
Unbiased intestinal single cell transcriptomics reveals previously uncharacterized enteric nervous system populations in larval zebrafish
Authors: Kuil L.E. , Kakiailatu N. , Windster J.D. , Bindels E. , Zink J.T.M. , van der Zee G. , Hofstra R.M.W. , Shepherd I.T. , Melotte V. , Alves M.M.
Published: August 2022

The enteric nervous system (ENS) regulates many gastrointestinal functions including peristalsis, immune regulation and uptake of nutrients. Defects in the ENS can lead to severe enteric neuropathies such as Hirschsprung disease (HSCR), which is caused by defective ENS development. Zebrafish have proven to be fruitful in the identification of novel genes involved in ENS development and HSCR pathology. However, the composition and specification of enteric neurons and glial subtypes of the larval zebrafish at a single cell level, remains mainly unexplored. Here, we performed single cell RNA sequencing of zebrafish ENS at 5 days post-fertilization. We identified both vagal neural crest progenitors and Schwann cell precursors, as well as four clusters of early differentiated neurons. Interestingly, since we took an unbiased approach where we sequenced total intestines, an elavl3+/phox2bb- population of neurons and the presence of cx43+/phox2bb- enteric glia were identified in larval zebrafish. These populations have not been described before. Pseudotime analysis supported binary neurogenic branching of ENS differentiation, which happens via a notch-responsive state. Together, our data revealed previously unrecognized ENS populations and serve as a resource to gain new insights on ENS development and specification, proving that the zebrafish is a valuable model organism in the quest towards understanding and treating congenital enteric neuropathies.
A rapid alkalinization factor-like peptide EaF82 impairs tapetum degeneration during pollen development through induced ATP deficiency
Authors: Hung Chiu-Yueh , Kittur Farooqahmed S. , Wharton Keely N. , Umstead Makendra L. , Burwell D’Shawna B. , Thomas Martinique , Qi Qi , Zhang Jianhui , Oldham Carla E. , Burkey Kent O. , Chen Jianjun , Xie Jiahua
Published: August 2022

In plants, timely degeneration of tapetal cells is essential for providing nutrients and other substances to support pollen development. Rapid alkalinization factors (RALFs) are small, cysteine-rich peptides known to be involved in various aspects of plant development and growth, and defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the functions of most of them remain unknown, while no RALF has been reported to involve in tapetum degeneration. In this study, we demonstrated that a novel cysteine-rich peptide EaF82 isolated from shy-flowering ‘Golden Pothos’ plants is a RALF-like peptide and displays alkalinizing activity. Its heterologous expression in Arabidopsis delayed tapetum degeneration and reduced pollen production and seed yields. RNAseq, RT-qPCR and biochemical analyses showed that overexpressingEaF82down-regulated a group of genes involved in pH changes, cell wall modifications, tapetum degeneration and pollen maturation as well as seven endogenous ArabidopsisRALFgenes, and decreased proteasome activity and ATP levels. Yeast two-hybrid screening identified AKIN10, a subunit of energy-sensing SnRK1 kinase, to be its interacting partner. Our study reveals a possible regulatory role for RALF peptide in tapetum degeneration and suggests that EaF82 action may be mediated through AKIN10 leading to the alteration of transcriptome and energy metabolism, thereby causing ATP deficiency and impairing pollen development.
New roles for an old cyclin in control of cell cycle entry and cell size
Authors: Brambila Amanda , Prichard Beth E. , DeWitt Jerry T. , Kellogg Douglas R.
Published: August 2022

Entry into the cell cycle in late G1 phase occurs only when sufficient growth has occurred. In budding yeast, a cyclin called Cln3 is thought to link cell cycle entry to cell growth. Cln3 accumulates during growth in early G1 phase and eventually triggers accumulation of late G1 phase cyclins that drive cell cycle entry. All current models for cell cycle entry assume that expression of late G1 phase cyclins is initiated at the transcriptional level. Current models also assume that the sole function of Cln3 in cell cycle entry is to promote transcription of late G1 phase cyclins, and that Cln3 works solely in G1 phase. Here, we show that cell cycle-dependent expression of late G1 phase cyclins does not require cell cycle-dependent transcription. Moreover, Cln3 can influence accumulation of late G1 phase cyclin proteins via post-transcriptional mechanisms. Finally, we show that Cln3 has functions in mitosis that strongly influence cell size. Together, these discoveries reveal surprising new functions for Cln3 that challenge current models for control of cell cycle entry and cell size.
The integrated effect of Kaizen and innovation culture on the police performance: an empirical investigation
Authors: Alosani Mohammed Saleh , Al-Dhaafri Hassan Saleh
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Limited use of Kaizen practices in police agencies, together with very few studies that investigated the link between it and police performance, gives a gap and good indication to conduct this study. Thus, this study seeks to explore and examine this relationship through the lens of innovation culture as a mediating factor.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper was based on a survey with 352 effective participants, including the head section officers of the Dubai Police in the UAE. A structural equation modelling technique was used for statistical analysis.

Findings

Results indicate that Kaizen was positively associated with police performance. Innovation culture also plays a mediating role in the relationship between Kaizen and police performance.

Originality/value

This paper has theoretical and practical contributions. It is one of the first studies to create and test the direct and indirect associations between Kaizen and police performance, providing evidence on the mediating role of innovation culture with regard to Kaizen and performance in the policing field.
The effects of female sexually fluid workplace romance on their work and life
Authors: Pham Quan Thuong , Le Hung Quang , Mai Khuong Ngoc , Phan Anh Trieu
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Drawing on scholarships of workplace romance, LGBT at work and sexual fluidity, this present research aims to investigate the effect of female sexually fluid romantic relationships at work on their work and life.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used qualitative approach and interviewed 30 female workers who experienced sexual fluidity at work.

Findings

From interviews with 30 female employees in Vietnam who experience fluidity in their romance, the authors find out positive and negatives effects on their psychology at work (affective/behavioral/cognitive change and mental health), work outcome (job attitudes and performance/productivity) and relations with coworkers.

Originality/value

This research discovers common and distinct features in the workplace romance of female sexually fluid employees. The research finding supports queer perspective which is exerting more salient impacts on our contemporary society and workplace.
Bringing workers into ownership of platform companies
Authors: Gonza Tej , Ellerman David
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In addition to increased regulation and platform co-operatives, this paper proposes a third option to address the problem posed by the labor-based platform (LBP) companies and companies' treatment of de facto employees as “independent contractors,” thus avoiding the usual employee benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the history and structure of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) as a mechanism to achieve partial worker ownership of companies.

Findings

The possibility of establishing ESOPs in the local subsidiaries of platform companies is outlined as the third option to reform LBPs.

Practical implications

Whether this option is available in the United States of America is not clear without new litigation or legislation since the existing USA ESOP is for “employees” and the problem is that the LBPs do not classify these platforms' full-time workers as “employees.” Hence, this third option may be mainly relevant to other countries for LBPs that are not already established.

Originality/value

The ESOP approach to changing LBPs is a new suggestion in addition to the usual approaches of increased public regulation and establishing new worker-owned platform co-operatives. The ESOP is a new tool in the hands of municipal and national governments to require in order for the LBPs to be able to operate.
B Corps and listed companies: empirical analysis on corporate social responsibility and innovation activity
Authors: Gazzola Patrizia , Grechi Daniele , Ferioli Matteo , Slavata David
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate whether the corporate social responsibility (CSR) and innovation activity of Certified B Corps® is comparable to listed companies in the Italian fashion industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study includes a systematic literature review performed on Scopus® and combining keywords related to CSR and the fashion industry. Moreover, the literature review involves empirical analyses performed using a mixed-methods approach. First, a text-based content analysis was carried out on the companies' sustainability reports using the keyword scoring approach. The innovation index was then calculated, and multiple ordinary least squares (OLS) linear regressions were performed.

Findings

Based on the data available, it has emerged that Certified B Corps® who pursue a more significant number of SDGs are more likely to implement circular economy principles. Moreover, Certified B Corps® that have higher transparency standards and assume social responsibility practices also have higher innovation activity; in contrast, companies who used CSR only as a marketing tool have lower activity.

Research limitations/implications

The analyses were influenced by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, revealing weaker relationships between the variables, as the analyses involved 2020 data. Furthermore, although the analysis considers the entire population of Certified B Corps® and listed companies in the Italian fashion industry, the size of the sample analyzed influenced the results and insights. Therefore, the analysis does not allow for generalizability. Finally, the study was conducted on a single country whose economic and social contexts have influenced some variables.

Practical implications

The paper highlights some managerial implications. Managers should consider CSR to be an investment and an opportunity to survive the post-COVID-19 pandemic by applying the triple bottom line (TBL) approach in formulating strategies and increasing investments to develop sustainable innovations.

Originality/value

The article explores B Corps, which has received minimal attention in the literature, to propose a deeper understanding of the topic.
Gender equality in the workplace: a global perspective
Authors: Andrade Maureen Snow
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The benefits of gender diversity in the workplace are well-established. Consequently, many organizations have policies or programs in place to encourage hiring women. Despite this, the gender gap remains, particularly in terms of compensation and promotion and progress appears slow. This paper aims to examine the benefits of gender diversity and common approaches to enhance it. It then reviews lessons from global research and suggests applications.

Design/methodology/approach

This practitioner study reviews the literature to identify arguments for gender equality in the workplace, progress in gender equality and common organizational approaches to equality. It presents snapshots of two global studies examining gender equality. It draws implications and applications from these studies.

Findings

Gender equality remains elusive and difficult to achieve despite efforts on the part of leaders to encourage it. Insights from research provide compelling reasons in terms of organizational outcomes for female hiring, development and promotion. Additionally, insights into organizational culture help leaders identify barriers to gender equality.

Originality/value

This paper presents insights into the need for and benefits of gender equality in organizations. A review of two global studies provides compelling reasons for leaders to recommit themselves to their gender equality and address needed changes in organizational culture.
Rock climbing disturbance severity and abiotic gradients interact to determine cryptogam diversity and community structure
Authors: Reding Jordan M. , Davies G. Matt , Klips Robert A.
Published: August 2022

Questions

Plant communities are shaped by interactions between natural and anthropogenic disturbances and underlying environmental conditions. We asked how disturbance by rock climbing alters patterns of cryptogam species diversity and composition along elevational abiotic gradients.

Location

Red River Gorge, Kentucky, United States of America.

Methods

Surveying was completed within 19 climbing routes on sandstone “slabs.” Quadrats were placed at three different vertical positions (elevations) and three different horizontal positions (center of the route, route margin, off‐route). The former provides a gradient of light and moisture availability while the latter corresponds to climbing impact. Cryptogam species cover was visually assessed in all quadrats. Quadrat microtopography was quantified as well as route‐level Heat Load Index and Climbing Use Intensity. We assessed differences in species richness and Shannon diversity (H) among quadrat positions and evaluated differences in species and cryptogam morphological type abundance and composition.

Results

Significant differences existed in richness H, and total cryptogam abundance between quadrat vertical and horizontal positions with a significant interaction between these two factors. Cryptogram abundance was greatest in off‐route quadrats and increased with elevation in such settings. Abundance was consistently lower in on‐route quadrats and, here, did not change with elevation. Richness and H were greatest in off‐route quadrats and declined with increasing elevation in on‐route quadrats. Significant differences in community composition existed as a function of vertical and horizontal position. On‐route quadrats were associated with crustose and granulose species, while foliose and squamulose lichens, and bryophytes were associated with off‐route quadrats.

Conclusions

Cryptogam composition and abundance were associated with varying intra‐route environmental conditions, and off‐ to on‐route disturbance gradients. There is potential for substantive impacts on the ecology of cliff face ecosystems from climbing. Impacts could be reduced by spacing routes widely and avoiding impacts on upper elevations where diversity and abundance are greatest.
Community and wellbeing in the lives of people with learning disabilities
Authors: Nind Melanie
Published: August 2022

Accessible summary

The journal now has a statement on the website about respecting diversity, wanting to include different people and their perspectives, and standing alongside people with learning disabilities.

We have done some research with people with learning disabilities about how they might contribute to reviewing papers. We will report on this soon.

This issue of the journal has papers about community and well‐being for people with learning disabilities.

The papers look at how we can help people who belong in communities. Some cover how people stayed connected during Covid lockdowns. Others focus on different ways of supporting people's mental health.
The time management styles of deputy ministers in Canada: Towards a taxonomy
Authors: Dutil Patrice , Migone Andrea
Published: August 2022

Deputy Ministers in Canada play a critical role in defining all aspects of policy and operations for their respective departments and also contribute significantly to their government's collective initiatives. While there exists a solid understanding of the roles and functions of Deputy Ministers, there is little perception of how individuals actually shape the position in terms of time management. Understanding how senior executives in Canadian public service organize their time is critical to an appreciation of how they prioritize their functions. Using results from a 2020 survey, this study documents how Deputy Ministers in Canada divide their weeks in terms of personal work and meetings. This study goes further to discern a taxonomy of five time‐allocation styles of Deputy Ministers: Operational, Balanced, Managerial, Strategic and HR‐Focused.
Neurodevelopmental outcomes in a cohort of children with congenital Zika syndrome at 12 and 24 months of age
Authors: Marques Fernanda J. P. , Amarante Claret , Elias Marco Aurelio C. , Klein Renata , Nascimento Osvaldo J. M. , Leyser Marcio
Published: August 2022

Background

Early child development is a critical stage of life that influences social, educational and health outcomes worldwide. A few years after Zika epidemic, families of children born with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) continue to face uncertainties when it comes to the development of their children. The present study sought to analyse the developmental trajectories of a subset of children born with CZS in the first 24 months of life.

Methods

Thirty‐five children with CZS were assessed with the Bayley‐III Scales at 12 and 24 months of age from November 2016 to December 2018 in a rehabilitation centre in Brazil. Inclusion criteria included children with established diagnosis of CZS. Exclusion criteria included the presence of arthrogryposis, prematurity, irregular follow‐up, clinical complications or other causes of microcephaly. Children born with CZS who evolved with cerebral palsy (CP) were classified according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) at 2 years of age.

Results

At 12 months of age mean composite scores on the Bayley cognitive, communication and motor scores were 57.71 (SD 7.11), 57.94 (SD 14.34) and 49.26 (7.20), respectively. At 24 months of age, composite scores were 57.43 (SD 7.11), 53.60 (SD 12.29) and 48.83 (7.76). In addition, 31 (88.57%) out of 34 children diagnosed with CP were classified as GMFCS levels IV and V.

Conclusion

Zika virus congenital infection is a risk factor for functional impairments across all developmental domains having a direct and substantial negative impact in early child development.
The closer we get, the better we are?
Authors: Goldstein Nathan , Zilberfarb Ben‐Zion
Published: August 2022

Not always. A general requirement in models of expectations formation is that forecast accuracy should improve when getting closer to the target date. We apply a multi‐horizon bootstrap test to a unique Israeli survey of firm‐level inflation forecasts, which encompasses periods of three digits annual rates, and periods of moderate and low inflation. We find that improvements in forecast accuracy were significant during high and moderate inflation periods, but not in the low‐inflation environment. The results are in line with rational inattention, induced by a decline in inflation predictability. Further support is provided by evidence from the US SPF survey.