bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome-level Genomes Reveal the Genetic Basis of Descending Dysploidy and Sex Determination in Morus Plants
Authors: Xia Zhongqiang , Dai Xuelei , Fan Wei , Liu Changying , Zhang Meirong , Bian Peipei , Zhou Yuping , Li Liang , Zhu Baozhong , Liu Shuman , Li Zhengang , Wang Xiling , Yu Maode , Xiang Zhonghuai , Jiang Yu , Zhao Aichun
Published: May 2022

Multiple plant lineages have independently evolved sex chromosomes and variable karyotypes to maintain their sessile lifestyles through constant biological innovation. Morus notabilis, a dioecious mulberry species, has the fewest chromosomes among Morus spp., but the genetic basis of sex determination and karyotype evolution in this species have not been identified. Three high-quality genome assemblies generated of Morus spp. (including those of dioecious M. notabilis and Morus yunnanensis) were within the range 301-329 Mb in size which were grouped into six pseudochromosomes. Using a combination of genomic approaches, we showed that the putative ancestral karyotype of Morus was close to 14 protochromosomes, and that several chromosome fusion events resulted in descending dysploidy (2n = 2x = 12). We also characterized a ∼6.2-Mb sex-determining region on chromosome 3. The four potential male-specific genes, including a partially duplicated DNA helicase gene orthologue (named MSDH) and three Ty3_Gypsy long terminal repeat retrotransposons (named MSTG), were solely identified in the Y-linked area and considered to be strong candidate genes for sex determination or differentiation. Population genomic analysis showed that Guangdong accessions in China were genetically similar to Japanese accessions of mulberry. In addition, genomic areas containing selective sweeps that distinguish domesticated mulberry trees from wild populations in terms of flowering and disease resistance were identified. Our findings provide an important genetic resource for sex identification and molecular breeding in mulberry.
CaV1 and CaV2 calcium channels mediate the release of distinct pools of synaptic vesicles
Authors: Mueller Brian D. , Merrill Sean A. , Watanabe Shigeki , Liu Ping , Singh Anish , Maldonado-Catala Pablo , Cherry Alex , Silva Malan , Maricq Andres Villu , Wang Zhao-Wen , Jorgensen Erik M.
Published: May 2022

Activation of voltage-gated calcium channels at synapses leads to local increases in calcium and the fusion of synaptic vesicles. However, presynaptic output will be determined by the density of calcium channels, the dynamic properties of the channel, the distance to docked vesicles, and the release probability at the docking site. We demonstrate that at C. elegans neuromuscular junctions two different classes of voltage-gated calcium channels, CaV2 and CaV1, mediate the release of distinct pools of synaptic vesicles. CaV2 channels are concentrated in densely packed clusters ∼300 nm in diameter with the active zone proteins Neurexin, α-Liprin, SYDE, ELKS/CAST, RIM-BP, α-Catulin, and MAGI1. CaV2 channels mediate the fusion of vesicles docked adjacent to the dense projection and are colocalized with the synaptic vesicle priming protein UNC-13L. By contrast, CaV1 channels are dispersed in the synaptic varicosity and are coupled to internal calcium stores via the ryanodine receptor. CaV1 and ryanodine receptor mediate the fusion of vesicles docked broadly in the synaptic varicosity and are colocalized with the vesicle priming protein UNC-13S. Distinct synaptic vesicle pools, released by different calcium channels, could be used to tune the speed, voltage-dependence, and quantal content of neurotransmitter release.
Students' attitudes on the use of Zoom in higher educational institutes of Sri Lanka
Authors: Mohamed Riyath Mohamed Ismail , Muhammed Rijah Uthuma Lebbe , Rameez Aboobacker
Published: May 2022

Purpose

There is a significant decrease in students' attendance in Zoom classes compared to traditional classes. This paper investigates the factors that affect students' attitudes, behavioral intentions and actual use of Zoom for online classes at higher educational institutions (HEIs) in Sri Lanka.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses the technology acceptance model (TAM) as a theoretical model. The data are collected from HEI students via an online survey form. The hypotheses between constructs in the model are tested using partial least squared–structural equation model.

Findings

The analysis shows that computer self-efficacy (CSE) affects perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU), which affects attitude (ATT) and behavioral intention (BI) and actual use (AU) of Zoom in a chain reaction. Further, PEU affects PU, which, in turn, affects BI. Furthermore, the effect size of PU to BI is larger than ATT to BI.

Practical implications

Students' attendance for Zoom classes mainly depends on CSE, PU and PEU. Therefore, HEIs should promote Zoom with interactive training before teaching online. Further, officials should revise the curriculum in schools to upsurge the CSE of students.

Originality/value

During coronavirus-19, no research was published on students' use of Zoom for online classes in the Sri Lankan context. Moreover, the TAM model has been modified by including CSE as an external variable.
Procurement innovation as a vehicle for sustainable change – a case study of the Danish model of strategic partnerships
Authors: Berg Jakob Brinkø , Thuesen Christian , Jensen Per Anker
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Efficient and effective knowledge transfer is important in complex building renovation projects. The addition of sustainability requirements in building renovation adds complexity. This paper aims to investigate the development of innovative public procurement schemes to support sustainable building renovation projects. These blueprints for procurement innovation can support similar efforts in other countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a longitudinal case study using interviews with primary stakeholders and workshops with industry practitioners to supplement the analysis of public tender documents from the Danish public building clients.

Findings

The key tenants of the Danish model for strategic partnerships are a single strategic partner, systematic conflict resolution, framework agreements, risk management and joint educational programs. Three phases in the development of the procurement scheme are identified: experiment, definition and replication.

Originality/value

Strategic partnerships and other types of relational contract schemes are not very prevalent in most countries. How these contracts are developed and defined is not well understood. This paper shows how one such contracting scheme is developed, how it is defined and replicated.
BSRM Steel, Bangladesh: growing from building safety to caring hearts
Authors: Absar Mir Mohammed Nurul , Akhter Sadia , Srivastava Ritu
Published: May 2022

Learning outcomes

This case study discussion will enable students to: • Understand and evaluate the steel industry’s nature, opportunities, threats and challenges in an emerging market such as Bangladesh.• Review the techniques used to analyse competition and attractiveness of an industry using Porter’s five forces model. • Identify the corporate-level strategic decisions that can impact the survival and growth of a single business/product company in a highly competitive market. • Evaluate amongst different types of corporate-level growth strategies and their appropriate applications. • Synthesise various internal, industry and market-related information into the selection and justification of any particular corporate-level growth strategy.

Case overview/synopsis

BSRM group established Bangladesh’s first-ever steel mill in 1952. For around 70 years, BSRM had been leading the steel industry of Bangladesh with a single product – long steel. Over the recent decade (2010–2020), Bangladesh had been one of the world’'s fastest-growing economies. As the economic development was closely tied with the consumption of steel products, per capita steel consumption in Bangladesh became more than double. Moving from 24 kg in 2010, per capita steel consumption became 55 kg in 2021. Industry experts predicted the per capita steel consumption to be 75 kg by 2024, indicating an enormous scope for the steel industry to grow. Moreover, the industry’s growth momentum was predicted to continue until the nation became a developed one in 2041. This growth momentum kept attracting new competitors to this business. Nevertheless, BSRM maintained the market leadership by dint of its first mover’s advantage, superior quality, branding, innovation and large-scale operations and ultimately accumulated substantial free cash flow over the years. Now, Aameir Alihussain, the Managing Director and CEO of BSRM, was concerned about managing the growth of his business. Would BSRM continue to concentrate on producing steel and building forte by the backward and forward integration of the value chain? Or should the firm opt for some related diversification? Alternatively, was it the right time for BSRM to consider opportunities for unrelated diversification? While opportunities were many, the amount for investment was limited. Thus, Alihussain was in a dilemma pursuing the right corporate-level growth strategy for the overall sustainability of his business in the long run.

Complexity academic level

This case can be taught in the corporate-level strategy chapter of a core course on strategic management at the undergraduate programs. This case would facilitate students to comprehend the context of corporate-level strategies in managing the growth of a business in an emerging market.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 11: Strategy.
Editorial: Opportunities in the new service marketplace
Authors: Russell-Bennett Rebekah , Rosenbaum Mark S.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the opportunities in the service marketplace that have arisen because of the changes brought about by the global pandemic (COVID-19).

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual methodological approach is used to analyze trends in the history of service research and discuss how articles presented in this issue help scholars and practitioners with planning for opportunities and confronting challenges in the new (post COVID-19) service marketplace.

Findings

This special issue puts forth six viewpoints and seven research articles that outline opportunities in the new service marketplace from regional and global perspectives. Further, the research articles presented in this issue identify four opportunities for managers to consider when designing services in the new service marketplace; these are labeled as reassurance and fear reduction, rethinking physical space and supply chains for multichannel service delivery, the rise of local and community importance and resilience building to combat customer discourtesy.

Practical implications

Managers can understand how the pandemic has profoundly and permanently impacted consumers’ perceptions and expectations for service delivery and processes.

Originality/value

This work presents scholars with a historical overview of trends in service research. The challenges posed by the pandemic represent the beginning of a new era in service research thought and practice as many previously held theories and understandings of consumers’ marketplace behaviors have permanently changed because of behavioral changes that transpired during governmental mandated lockdowns.
Do international investors care about ESG news?
Authors: de Vincentiis Paola
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Motivated by the increasing momentum of environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing, this research aims to test the impact of ESG-related news on stock returns, comparing different geographical areas to check whether the cultural background makes any difference.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a classic event–study methodology, this study measures extra returns following the broadcast of positive or negative ordinary news concerning ESG issues using a panel of major international companies located in Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

Findings

ESG news are interpreted differently in different geographical areas. In Europe, bad news matter more than good news and produce a negative price impact. In the USA, a mirror picture emerges: good news matter more than bad news and produce a negative price impact. In the APAC area, ESG news are no news and are not correlated to significant extra returns. This study also shows that ESG reputation plays an important role and affects the impact of news on equity returns.

Practical implications

Both managers and equity investors need to be aware of the potential magnitude and direction of stock market’s reactions to news concerning ESG matters, taking also into consideration the location of the firm and the moderating effect of ESG reputation. Sustainability cannot be ignored anymore and need to be included into information data set and decision-making processes.

Originality/value

This study adds to the current literature insights on how ESG-related news impact in different geographical contexts. This study finds that news of similar tone may produce divergent effect on stock returns according to the prevailing cultural and economic interpretation of sustainability investments.
Kinks in the hosepipe: a case study of managing gender equality in an SME
Authors: Saieva Gillian , Smith Simon M. , Butler Steve
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the real-life examples made by a single small and medium-sized enterprise to address organisational inequalities and develop a more inclusive culture.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers the approach taken by Punter Southall Aspire to manage their gender balance through a case study of documents, policies and interviews.

Findings

There is still plenty of work to do, but the multiple actions taken by the leadership have been positive, well-received and importantly progressive. By taking a focused approach to manage gender equality within an small and medium-sized enterprise, the outcome has been far reaching.

Originality/value

By showcasing the leadership and positive action within a single small and medium-sized enterprise, the authors hope other organisations are able to take inspiration to make their own changes.
Haus Liebe brothel: ethical decision-making in a foreign culture
Authors: Spain Everett S.P. , Young Lissa V. , Lemler Russell P.
Published: May 2022

Theoretical basis

The authors believe the theoretical foundations for this case study lie in the following two disciplines, primarily, but could be expanded to religion and organizational culture:i. Ethical decision-makingii. Cross-cultural competenceiii. Leadership

Research methodology

This is an actual case, and the fact pattern and timeline occurred as depicted. The first author is the protagonist, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Shawn Browning. The names of case characters have been disguised. The second and third authors are colleagues of the first author. This case was tested in three undergraduate organizational behavior and leadership classes at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Case overview/synopsis

This disguised case follows US Army Officer LTC Shawn Browning, leader of a prominent US Army base located in Germany. As the commander of US Army Garrison Schweinfurt, LTC Browning was responsible for the health and welfare of 10,000 residents, including soldiers, family members and civilian employees. A community member lodged a complaint against a brothel named Haus One (a legal establishment under German law) located adjacent to the base and near family housing and the base elementary school. LTC Browning had the authority to render the brothel off-limits to US personnel, and he took the necessary steps prior to rendering a decision, including the appointment of a review board to investigate the situation and provide a recommendation. The board recommended not placing Haus One off-limits. The case focuses on LTC Browning’s values and his desire to ensure the welfare of his community while adhering to local legal and cultural norms. Cross-cultural and ethical issues surface throughout the case, which concludes with LTC Browning’s pondering of how to make a final decision.

Complexity academic level

The authors believe this is targeted at undergraduate students with some background in ethical decision-making, organizational culture and cross-cultural competence.
Exposure and susceptibility: The Twin Pillars of infection
Authors: Sweeny Amy R. , Albery Gregory F.
Published: May 2022

Exposure and susceptibility underlie every organism's infection status, and an untold diversity of factors can drive variation in both. Often, both exposure and susceptibility change in response to a given factor, and they can interact, such that their relative contributions to observed disease dynamics are obscured. These independent and interlinked changes often complicate empirical inference in disease ecology and ecoimmunology.

Although many disease ecology studies address this problem, it is often implicit rather than explicit and requires a specific set of tools to tackle. Moreover, as yet, there is no established conceptual framework for disentangling susceptibility and exposure processes.

Here, we consolidate previous theory and empirical understanding regarding the entwined effects of susceptibility and exposure, which we refer to as ‘the Twin Pillar Problem’. We provide a framework for conceptualising exposure–susceptibility interactions, where they obscure, confound, induce or counteract one another, providing some well‐known examples for each complicating mechanism.

We synthesise guidelines for anticipating and controlling for covariance between exposure and susceptibility, and we detail statistical and operational methodology that researchers have employed to deal with them. Finally, we discuss novel emerging frontiers in their study in ecology, and their potential for further integration in the fields of wildlife and human health.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Irreconciliation as practice: resisting impunity and closure in Argentina
Authors: Vaisman Noa
Published: May 2022

In Argentina, irreconciliation is created through everyday practices of vigilance against closure and collective struggles against impunity. In this essay, I show how over several decades since the fall of the dictatorial regime (1976‐83), human rights activists and laypeople have devised ways to keep the past alive while attending to injustices through embodied collective engagements with the country's history and its legacies. By examining large protests, the everyday experiences of impunity, and a filmic exploration of kinship bonds and their entanglement with civilian complicity in the repression, the essay illustrates the ways in which irreconciliation is materialized and enacted as a form of social reconstruction many years after state terrorism.
Charitable Activities in the Sixteenth Century: Early Theatine Identity under Carafa
Authors: Vanni Andrea
Published: May 2022

The Theatine order was the first of the new orders of clerics regular founded after the schism provoked by Luther. The dominant historiographical tradition suggests that, immediately following their foundation, the Theatines devoted themselves to charitable work. However, recent studies have revealed that their main founder, Gian Pietro Carafa (later Pope Paul IV), created the Theatines in 1524 because he needed collaborators to promote the sacralization of the Church for his struggle to curb ecclesiastical corruption and then against heretics and heresies. At the same time, however, what emerges is that only after Carafa's death did the second generation of Theatines refocus the order on the “care of the soul,” aligning the order with the latent teachings of co‐founder Gaetano Thiene. This article reinterprets the history of the early Theatines and aims to define their connection with charity work. It investigates the token charitable activities they performed and how even these activities conflicted with the tasks Carafa assigned to them. To better define the order's identity under Carafa, this article also investigates the difficult relationship between the early Theatines and laypeople, in particular, the women who ran various Italian charitable institutions.
Radio frequency pasteurization and heating uniformity of canned pineapple
Authors: Wang Yequn , Hou Quan , Zhang Erpan , Chen Yanmei , Chen Xiangwei , Wang Yunyang
Published: May 2022

This research investigated heating uniformity and pasteurization of canned pineapple using radio frequency (RF) energy. Experiments were conducted in a 6 kW, 27.12 MHz pilot‐scale RF system. Results showed that the temperature difference was more than 16°C, and the standard deviation was 4.38°C at the end of heating when using RF heating alone. Water bath‐assisted RF (WRF) heating effectively improved the heating uniformity, the temperature difference was less than 7°C and the standard deviation was 2.52°C at the end of heating in the condition of electrode gap (210 mm), chord length of the fruit block (26 mm), and the initial temperature of sugar solution (80°C). When the total number of colonies reached 4‐log reduction, water bath (WB) heating alone needed 660 s, and WRF heating needed 180 s. Vitamin C, hardness, and color of fruit blocks were well preserved using WRF heating compared with WB alone.

Practical Application

This study shows that the pasteurization of canned food by radio frequency heating can achieve better food quality than the traditional pasteurization methods. Therefore, this research can promote the application of radio frequency heating technology in canned food pasteurization.
Morphometric analysis of the red fox molar teeth in Lithuania
Authors: Jurgelėnas Eugenijus , Jasinevičiūtė Indrė , Kerzienė Sigita , Daugnora Linas
Published: May 2022

The objective of the study was to investigate the lengths and widths of maxillary (P4, M1 and M2) and mandibular (M1, M2 and M3) molar teeth, lengths of dental rows and dental features of sexual dimorphism in the red fox. The correlation analysis between teeth measurements and dental row length was included too. The osteometric analysis was performed by the A. von den Driesch (1976) method. A total of 230 skulls and mandibles were investigated (n = 230): 113 males (n = 113) and 117 females (n = 117). The findings of the research revealed that most dimensions are higher in males compared with females (p < 0.001). Contrarily, Wilks' Lambda analysis showed results in the interval from 0.821 to 1, which leads to the conclusion that a teeth measurement study is unreliable to determine the sex of the red fox. The trustworthy measurements were the length of the whole dental arcade in the maxilla and mandible (UDR and LDR); Wilks' Lambda UDR = 0.860; LDR = 0.821; p < 0.001). Evaluation of the correlation between measurements revealed that results vary from very weak (0.047) to moderate strength (0.543). There were no strongly correlating measurements found. The correlation between the upper and lower molars with the length of the teeth arcade is quite weak, and only solitary measurements (M2, L and B) had a weak correlation.
A ‘plethora of services’ but a lack of consistency: A qualitative study of service providers' perspectives about transitioning from hospital to home for older South Australians
Authors: Rupa Jesmin , Laver Kate , Harvey Gillian , McNamara Carmel , Crotty Maria , Lynch Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2022

Objective

We explored the perspectives of professionals working in health and aged care services in South Australia about factors that influenced successful transitions from hospital to home or residential aged care home for older people. We examined successful and recommended strategies that could support safe transitions following hospital discharge and reduce avoidable hospital admissions in South Australia.

Methods

Nineteen professionals from acute, post‐acute, primary, community and aged care settings in South Australia participated in semi‐structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis was conducted.

Results

Participants reported that navigating service provision could be difficult, compounded by different funding arrangements for hospitals, community, primary care and aged care services. Some participants felt that there was an over‐reliance on the hospital sector, leaving primary care and community‐based services under‐utilised to support hospital transitions. The importance of good communication between services and sectors was highlighted. Participants described different categories of services that supported safe transitions by supporting older people immediately post‐discharge; services that provided support to stay at home in the weeks and months following discharge; and services that helped the person receive health care at locations other than hospitals or emergency departments when they were unwell. Participants noted that successful programs were not always maintained.

Conclusions

Division of responsibility of aged and health‐care services between state and national governance contributes to fragmentation of care in South Australia. Careful planning of transitions and coordination of services across sectors is required to ensure older people are supported in the months following discharge from hospital to reduce avoidable rehospitalisations.
A comprehensive assessment of statin discontinuation among patients who concurrently initiate statins and CYP3A4‐inhibitor drugs; a multistate transition model
Authors: Donneyong Macarius M. , Zhu Yuxi , Zhang Pengyue , Li Yiting , Hunold Katherine M. , Chiang ChienWei , Unroe Kathleen , Caterino Jeffrey M. , Li Lang
Published: May 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe the 1‐year direct and indirect transition probabilities to premature discontinuation of statin therapy after concurrently initiating statins and CYP3A4‐inhibitor drugs.

Methods

A retrospective new‐user cohort study design was used to identify (N = 160 828) patients who concurrently initiated CYP3A4 inhibitors (diltiazem, ketoconazole, clarithromycin, others) and CYP3A4‐metabolized statins (statin DDI exposed, n = 104 774) vs. other statins (unexposed to statin DDI, n = 56 054) from the MarketScan commercial claims database (2012–2017). The statin DDI exposed and unexposed groups were matched (2:1) through propensity score matching techniques. We applied a multistate transition model to compare the 1‐year transition probabilities involving four distinct states (start, adverse drug events [ADEs], discontinuation of CYP3A4‐inhibitor drugs, and discontinuation of statin therapy) between those exposed to statin DDIs vs. those unexposed. Statistically significant differences were assessed by comparing the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of probabilities.

Results

After concurrently starting stains and CYP3A, patients exposed to statin DDIs, vs. unexposed, were significantly less likely to discontinue statin therapy (71.4% [95% CI: 71.1, 71.6] vs. 73.3% [95% CI: 72.9, 73.6]) but more likely to experience an ADE (3.4% [95% CI: 3.3, 3.5] vs. 3.2% [95% CI: 3.1, 3.3]) and discontinue with CYP3A4‐inhibitor therapy (21.0% [95% CI: 20.8, 21.3] vs. 19.5% [95% CI: 19.2, 19.8]). ADEs did not change these associations because those exposed to statin DDIs, vs. unexposed, were still less likely to discontinue statin therapy but more likely to discontinue CYP3A4‐inhibitor therapy after experiencing an ADE.

Conclusion

We did not observe any meaningful clinical differences in the probability of premature statin discontinuation between statin users exposed to statin DDIs and those unexposed.
Dehumanization through humour and conspiracies in online hate towards Chinese people during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Sakki Inari , Castrén Laura
Published: May 2022

Since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic, there have been widespread conversations about the origins of the virus and who to blame for it. This article focuses on the online hate directed at Chinese and Asian people during the pandemic. Taking a critical discursive psychological approach, we analysed seven online threads related to COVID‐19 and China from two Finnish websites (Suomi24 and Ylilauta) and one US (8kun) site. We identified three discursive trends associated with dehumanising Chinese populations: ‘monstrous Chinese’, ‘immoral Chinese’ and ‘China as a threat’, which created different forms of dehumanisation on a continuum from harsher dehumanisation to milder depersonalisation. The animalistic metaphors, coarse language, humorous frames and conspiracy beliefs worked to rhetorically justify the dehumanisation of Chinese individuals, making it more acceptable to portray them as a homogeneous and inhumane mass of people that deserves to be attacked. This study contributes to the field of discursive research on dehumanisation by deepening our knowledge of the specific features of Sinophobic hate speech.
Learning by doing, organizational forgetting, and the business cycle
Authors: Bongers Anelí
Published: May 2022

This paper supplements a learning‐by‐doing real business cycle model with endogenous organizational forgetting. Empirical evidence shows that the accumulated experience decay rate is not constant over the business cycle, but that forgetting is a function of economic activity. Learning reinforces the effects of productivity shocks, and organizational forgetting exacerbates their impact and increases their persistence. This is of particular interest when a negative productivity shock hits the economy, as the increasing speed of forgetting aggravates the negative shock and delays recovery.
The role of Nature‐based Solutions in disaster resilience in coastal Jamaica: current and potential applications for ‘building back better’
Authors: Lee Simone , Hall Giselle , Trench Camilo
Published: May 2022

Jamaica, like most Small Island Developing States around the world, is at high risk of coastal hazards due to its exposure to tropical storms, high levels of coastal development, vulnerable coastal communities, and the predicted impacts of climate change. Environmental degradation has been linked to increased vulnerability to disasters. Nature‐based Solutions, although not formally present in the literature, are being implemented at various scales in Jamaica. This paper presents an overview of three marine and coastal Nature‐based Solutions being utilised in the country: protected area management (Special Fishery Conservation Areas); mangrove restoration; and coral restoration. The paper briefly reviews their current application in Jamaica before arguing that these conservation projects that traditionally focused on biodiversity have co‐benefits as Nature‐based Solutions for disaster resilience. The paper closes by outlining several research objectives that should be explored in the future to further the implementation of Nature‐based Solutions for disaster resilience in Jamaica.
Detecting illegal maritime activities from anomalous multiscale fleet behaviours
Authors: Watson James R. , Woodill A. John
Published: May 2022

To achieve sustainable use of our oceans globally, our ability to detect and even predict illegal maritime activities must improve. The challenge is that most vessels that commit illegal acts will not transmit their location and are in effect unobservable to enforcement agencies. To overcome this challenge, we have developed a method for inferring the location and timing of illegal maritime activities inspired by complex systems theory: by monitoring the multiscale spatial behaviour of those vessels that we can observe, we are able to monitor for anomalous spatial patterns that could be associated with the presence of illegal activities (committed by an unobserved vessel). These spatial anomalies are represented as distortions in the ‘shape’ or multiscale spatial organization of fleets, which can be quantified using methods from information theory. To explore this approach, we developed a spatially explicit agent‐based model of fishing vessels, where we examined the utility of several multiscale spatial anomaly indexes. We then examined the performance of these indexes in a real‐world test‐case, with a focus on illegal events that occurred on the Patagonia Shelf. Our results suggest that this method offers insight into the location and timing of illegal activities at sea, and consequently offers a promising tool for helping to improve the security and sustainability of our oceans.
Long‐term drivers and timing of accelerated vegetation changes in African biomes and their management implications
Authors: Adeleye Matthew Adesanya , Connor Simon Edward , Haberle Simon Graeme , Ivory Sarah , Adeonipekun Peter Adegbenga
Published: May 2022

Aim

Owing to its diverse bioclimatic zones, long human history and intense anthropogenic impacts, Africa provides a model system for studying how global terrestrial ecosystems might respond to accelerated socio‐environmental stress. Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change and human impact, and insufficient baseline data hamper current environmental management efforts. Using palaeoecological data, we seek to identify the timing, pace and drivers of change in African biomes on a long‐term scale to inform current ecosystem management frameworks on the continent.

Location

Africa.

Time period

0–12 ka.

Major taxa studied

African biomes.

Methods

Sixty‐four pollen records across Africa and nearby sites were retrieved from multiple databases/sources and grouped into biomes. Turnover (quantified using the squared chord distance dissimilarity metric) and rarefaction analyses were conducted on pollen records in each biome group to reconstruct regional temporal vegetation turnover and richness. Reconstructed vegetation turnover and richness were compared with independent records of climate, fire and human activity to identify possible drivers of change.

Results

We found that the most stable biomes were those with the greatest floristic richness. Southern Africa's mediterranean‐type (SAM) ecosystems were the most stable and northern Africa's mediterranean‐type (NAM) ecosystems were the most unstable (mainly owing to fire). Tropical savannas (TS) and SAM ecosystems expressed the most sensitivity to climatic shifts from ≥6 ka, whereas tropical forests (TF) were relatively stable before human activities intensified from c. 2 ka. Floristic richness also declined across the tropics from c. 2 ka.

Main conclusions

Our analysis pinpoints NAM ecosystems as undergoing the fastest acceleration in turnover on the continent in response to fire, whereas TF and TS have been undergoing unprecedented changes in biodiversity in the last 2,000 years. We expect further changes in biodiversity where climate becomes warmer and drier and where human impacts are novel and rapid in comparison to long‐term baselines.
An introduction to the WHO 5th edition 2022 classification of testicular tumours
Authors: Berney Daniel M , Cree Ian , Rao Vishal , Moch Holger , Srigley John R , Tsuzuki Toyonori , Amin Mahul B , Comperat Eva M , Hartmann Arndt , Menon Santosh , Netto George J , Rubin Mark A , Turajlic Samra , Raspollini Maria R , Tickoo Satish K
Published: May 2022

The 5th edition of the World Health Organisation Blue Book was published recently and includes a comprehensive update on testicular tumours. This builds upon the work of the 4th edition, retaining its structure and main nomenclature, including the use of the term ‘germ cell neoplasia in situ’ (GCNIS) for the pre‐invasive lesion of most germ cell tumours and division from those not derived from GCNIS. While there have been important developments in understanding the molecular underpinnings of testicular cancer, this updated classification paradigm and approach remains rooted in morphology. Nomenclature changes include replacement of the term ‘primitive neuroectodermal tumour’ by ‘embryonic neuroectodermal tumour’ based on the non‐specificity of the former term and to separate these tumours clearly from Ewing sarcoma. Seminoma is placed in a germinoma family of tumours emphasising relation to those tumours at other sites. Criteria for the diagnosis of ‘teratoma with somatic transformation’ have been modified to not include variable field size assessments. The word ‘carcinoid’ has been changed to ‘neuroendocrine tumour’, with most examples in the testis now classified as ‘prepubertal type testicular neuroendocrine tumour’. For sex cord‐stromal tumours, the use of mitotic counts per high‐power field has been changed to per mm2 for malignancy assessments, and the new entities, ‘signet ring stromal tumour’ and ‘myoid gonadal stromal tumour’, are defined. Well‐differentiated papillary mesothelial tumour has now been defined as tumour type with a favourable prognosis. Sertoliform cystadenoma has been removed as an entity from testicular adnexal tumours and placed with Sertoli cell tumours.
Circulating platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles correlate with night‐time blood pressure and vascular organ damage and may represent an integrative biomarker of vascular health
Authors: Lugo‐Gavidia Leslie Marisol , Carnagarin Revathy , Burger Dylan , Nolde Janis M. , Chan Justine , Robinson Sandi , Bosio Erika , Matthews Vance B. , Schlaich Markus P.
Published: May 2022

Elevated office blood pressure (BP) has previously been associated with increased levels of circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs). The present study aimed to assess the relationship between levels of platelet derived EVs, ambulatory BP parameters, and pulse wave velocity as a marker of macrovascular organ damage. A total of 96 participants were included in the study. Platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles (pEVs) were evaluated by flow cytometry (CD41+/Annexin v+). BP evaluation included unobserved automated office BP and ambulatory BP monitoring. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured as a marker of macrovascular damage. pEVs correlated with nocturnal systolic BP (r = 0.31; p = .003) and nocturnal dipping (r = ‐0.29; p = .01) in univariable analysis. Multivariable regression models confirmed robustness of the association of EVs and nocturnal blood pressure (p = .02). In contrast, systolic office, 24h‐ and daytime‐BP did not show significant associations with pEVs. No correlations were found with diastolic BP. Circulating pEVs correlated with pulse wave velocity (r = 0.25; p = .02). When comparing different hypertensive phenotypes, higher levels of EVs and PWV were evident in patients with sustained hypertension compared to patients with white coat HTN and healthy persons. Circulating platelet derived EVs were associated with nocturnal BP, dipping, and PWV. Given that average nocturnal BP is the strongest predictor of CV events, platelet derived EVs may serve as an integrative marker of vascular health, a proposition that requires testing in prospective clinical trials.
Inhibition of PKC‐δ reduce rhabdomyolysis‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Wu Dengke , Pan Jian , Zhang Dongshan
Published: May 2022

Despite extensive research, the mechanisms underlying rhabdomyolysis‐induced acute kidney injury (AKI) remain largely elusive. In this study, we established both cell and murine models of rhabdomyolysis‐induced AKI by using myoglobin and glycerin, respectively, and provided evidence that protein kinase Cδ (PKC‐δ) was activated in both models and subsequently promoted cell apoptosis. Moreover, we found that this detrimental effect of PKC‐δ activation can be reversed by its pharmaceutical inhibitor rottlerin. Furthermore, we detected and confirmed the existence of PKC‐δ‐mediated myoglobin‐induced cell apoptosis and the expression of TNF‐α and IL1‐β via regulation of the p38MAPK and ERK1/2 signalling pathways. In summary, our research revealed the role of PKC‐δ in renal cell apoptosis and suggests that PKC‐δ is a viable therapeutic target for rhabdomyolysis‐induced AKI.
IM156, a new AMPK activator, protects against polymicrobial sepsis
Authors: Kang Ji Hyeon , Lee Sung Kyun , Yun Nam Joo , Kim Ye Seon , Song Jason Jungsik , Bae Yoe‐Sik
Published: May 2022

IM156, a novel biguanide with higher potency of AMP‐activated protein kinase activation than metformin, has inhibitory activity against angiogenesis and cancer. In this study, we investigated effects of IM156 against polymicrobial sepsis. Administration of IM156 significantly increased survival rate against caecal ligation and puncture (CLP)‐induced sepsis. Mechanistically, IM156 markedly reduced viable bacterial burden in the peritoneal fluid and peripheral blood and attenuated organ damage in a CLP‐induced sepsis model. IM156 also inhibited the apoptosis of splenocytes and the production of inflammatory cytokines including IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐10 in CLP mice. Moreover, IM156 strongly inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species and subsequent formation of neutrophil extracellular traps in response to lipopolysaccharide in neutrophils. Taken together, these results show that IM156 can inhibit inflammatory response and protect against polymicrobial sepsis, suggesting that IM156 might be a new treatment for sepsis.
Tissue diagnosis necessary for small endoscopic ultrasound‐suspected gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors 2 cm or less in size: A prospective study focusing on the endoscopic incisional biopsy
Authors: Wong Shenq‐Jie , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Shun Chia‐Tung , Chen Chien‐Chuan , Han Ming‐Lun , Chen Jiann‐Hwa , Huang Chung‐Tsui , Cheng Tsu‐Yao
Published: May 2022

Background and Aim

The small endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐suspected gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), gastric subepithelial tumors at the muscularis propria layer on EUS, are detected frequently. Bite‐on‐bite forceps biopsy and EUS‐guided tissue sampling yield variable results. This study aimed to analyze clinicopathologic features of the small EUS‐suspected gastric GISTs 2 cm or less in size and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the endoscopic incisional biopsy (EIB) for these small tumors.

Methods

This prospective study investigated 70 patients with small EUS‐suspected gastric GISTs 2 cm or less in size in two stages. Firstly, 30 patients were recruited for the efficacy and safety evaluation of the EIB. Secondly, 40 patients were randomly assigned to receive either EIB or the bite‐on‐bite biopsy for comparison of the diagnostic yield, procedure time, and adverse event rate.

Results

Combining two study stages, leiomyoma (74%) was diagnosed histologically to outnumber GIST (26%) with a diagnostic rate of 94% for patients receiving EIB. KIT exon 11 mutations (50%) and PDGFRA exon 12 mutations (16%) were detected in the small gastric GISTs. In the direct comparison, the diagnostic yield of EIB and the bite‐on‐bite biopsy was 85% and 50%, respectively (P = 0.018). There was no statistically significant difference of the mean procedure time or adverse event rate between these two groups.

Conclusions

Leiomyoma is more common than expected among these small tumors. Tissue diagnosis with an effective and safe sampling technique, such as EIB, is necessary for making further clinical decisions.
A longitudinal study of perinatal depression and the risk role of cognitive fusion and perceived stress on postpartum depression
Authors: Liu Wenting , Wu Xiaxin , Gao Yuanmin , Xiao Chaoqun , Xiao Julan , Fang Fan , Chen Yu
Published: May 2022

Aims and Objectives

To explore fluctuations in perinatal depression based on physiological, psychological and interpersonal dimensions to analyse risk factors across three time points: in the third trimester and at weeks 1 and 6 postpartum.

Background

Pregnant women experience depression at multiple time points and require screening. Studies have shown protective and negative factors related to postpartum depression. Cognitive fusion refers to an individual's emotions and behaviours that are regulated and influenced by that individual's own cognitive overregulation, especially when facing stress. This is an important psychological factor related to depression, but little is known about it in pregnant women.

Design

A longitudinal study was conducted from June 2019–July 2020, and the findings are reported following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Methods

Pregnant women (n = 207) were recruited, and a questionnaire survey was performed at 32–34 weeks of pregnancy and at weeks 1 and 6 postpartum. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance was performed to analyse the changes in depression over time. Regression analysis and linear mixed modelling were used to identify risk factors. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to analyse the relationships between variables.

Results

Of the pregnant women, 36.70% experienced antenatal depression and prolonged depression with the onset of postpartum depression (12.21%). Some depressive moods disappeared spontaneously after delivery (47.37%). Perceived stress was the highest risk predictor of postpartum depression (β = 0.332), followed by cognitive fusion (β = 0.178), which remained stable over time and might have been positively related to having a vulnerable personality (0.2 < r < 0.4). Social support plays a positive role in lowering postpartum depression (β = −0.027).

Conclusions

Changes in depression were influenced by multiple factors with stability and predictability across time. Psychological dimensions, such as perceived stress and cognitive fusion, are risk factors for developing postpartum depression and antenatal depression.

Relevance to clinical practice

Pregnant women can be divided into depressive cohorts according to screening at different time points to provide targeted interventions.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐3 and ‐10 is up‐regulated in the periodontal tissues of aged mice
Authors: Kageyama Yoko , Nakamura Megumi , Igari Yohei , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Oguchi Akiko , Murakawa Yasuhiro , Hattori Yoshinori , Sasano Yasuyuki
Published: May 2022

Objective

The present study was designed to investigate the whole transcriptome of periodontal tissues of both young and aged mice to identify the characteristic up‐regulation of protease genes with aging and to localize their translated protein products in the periodontal tissues.

Background

The metzincin protease superfamily is composed of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a disintegrin and metalloproteinases, and a disintegrin and metalloproteinases with thrombospondin motifs. Up‐regulation of these extracellular matrix‐degrading proteases has been implicated in senescence of tissues and organs, including the skin. However, few studies have investigated the expression profiles of these proteases and potential involvement in aging of periodontal tissues.

Methods

Periodontal tissues with the surrounding mandibular bones were collected from 50‐ and 10‐week‐old mice. Total RNA was extracted from the periodontal tissue and analyzed by cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) to identify differentially expressed genes encoding the metzincin proteases. Furthermore, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) was performed to validate the CAGE results, and the phenotypic expression of proteases involved in aging was localized via immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

The CAGE results showed that the expression levels of MMP‐3, ‐10, and ‐12 were up‐regulated at 50 weeks. Subsequent qRT‐PCR analysis showed that the gene expression levels of MMP‐3 and ‐10 were significantly increased with age. MMP‐10 immunoreactivity was localized exclusively in the cementum and alveolar bone adjacent to the periodontal ligament and was stronger and broader in aged mice than young mice. MMP‐3 immunoreactivity was localized in the periodontal ligaments at both 10 and 50 weeks.

Conclusion

In the present study, we demonstrated that the expression of MMP‐3 and ‐10 increased with aging and identified their characteristic localizations in aged periodontal tissues.