bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Benefit of Frequent Corporate Philanthropy
Authors: Lin Bingxuan , Liu Jianhua , Lu Rui , Sun Liang
Published: April 2022

Applying behavioural economic theory, we argue that the frequency of philanthropic activity is important in determining corporate philanthropy's economic outcome. Using Chinese data from 2003 to 2016, we find that firms with more frequent philanthropic activities obtain more government subsidies than firms that only engage in one‐off charitable donations. Firms with better corporate governance, such as higher management ownership and more independent directors, are more likely to adopt a strategy of frequent donation. Furthermore, firms are more likely to be frequent donors when management or local government officers have a long tenure. Our findings provide insight into the giving process and suggest that firms can maximize the benefit of corporate philanthropy if they strategically consider the donation frequency and donation amount simultaneously.
Long‐term quantification of leaf‐cutting ant damage in willow forestations in the lower delta of the Paraná River, Argentina
Authors: Jiménez Nadia Lis , Farji‐Brener Alejandro Gustavo , Calcaterra Luis Alberto
Published: April 2022

Leaf‐cutting ants are major pests of Neotropics forest plantations. The lower delta of the Paraná River contains the main Argentine Salicaceae production, strongly attacked by Acromyrmex lundii and Acromyrmex ambiguus. Nevertheless, there is no damage quantification in willow plantations attributed to leaf‐cutting ant species.

In an area without leaf‐cutting ant control, we installed 15 blocks with eight willow stakes each: four clones × two treatments; with and without leaf‐cutting ant exclusion. We used two traditional (Americano, Nigra 4) and two new (Géminis, Yaguareté) commercial clones. During 2014–2018, we measured the damaged foliage, height and diameter of each tree.

Foliage was damaged intensely during the first 2 years. After 1537 days, the loss in height and diameter was greater in Americano (70%), followed by Géminis (50%–60%), Yaguareté (40%–50%) and Nigra 4 (45%–40%). Stake survival with exclusion was greater (>80%) than stakes without exclusion (<50%). Total loss of wood volume was 93% for Americano, followed by Géminis (77%), Yaguareté (66%) and Nigra 4 (51%).

Although the new clones were heavily attacked, they produced two to three times more wood volume than Americano; replacing Americano with the new clones would help to reduce leaf‐cutting ants impact on plantations and pesticides released into the environment.
Percutaneous coronary intervention in insulin‐treated diabetic patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ge Ying , He Daikun , Shao Yiru , Wang Lina , Yan Wei
Published: April 2022

Background

This meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared long‐term adverse clinical outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in insulin‐treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM) and non‐ITDM patients.

Methods

This is a meta‐analysis study. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched for articles on long‐term adverse clinical outcomes of PCI in ITDM and non‐ITDM patients. The risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results

A total of 11 related RCTs involving 8853 DM patients were included. Compared with non‐ITDM patients, ITDM patients had significantly higher all‐cause mortality (ACM) (RR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.25–1.85, pheterogeneity = .689, I2 = 0%), major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (RR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.18–1.55, pheterogeneity = .57, I2 = 0%), myocardial infarction (MI) (RR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.16–1.72, pheterogeneity = .962, I2 = 0%), and stent thrombosis (ST) (RR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.23–2.48, pheterogeneity = .159, I2 = 32.4%). No significant difference was found in the target lesion revascularization (TLR) and target vessel revascularization (TVR) between the ITDM and non‐ITDM groups.

Conclusions

The results showed that ITDM patients had significantly higher ACM, MACCE, MI, and ST, compared with non‐ITDM patients.
Incidence and risk factors of deep vein thrombosis after extracorporeal life support
Authors: van Minnen Olivier , van den Bergh Walter M. , Droogh Joep M. , Koehorst Lisette , Lagrand Wim K. , Raasveld S. Jorinde , Oude Lansink‐Hartgring Annemieke , Terpstra Aart , Smit Jasper M. , Tuinman Pieter R. , Vlaar Alexander P. J.
Published: April 2022

Background

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after decannulation of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is not uncommon. Moreover, the impact of anticoagulation and potential risk factors is unclear. Furthermore, it is unclear if cannula‐associated DVT is more common in ECLS patients compared to critically ill patients without ECLS.

Methods

All adult patients who were successfully weaned from ECLS and were screened for DVT following decannulation were included in this observational cohort study. The incidence of post‐ECLS‐DVT was assessed and the cannula‐associated DVT rate was compared with that of patients without ECLS after central venous catheter (CVC) removal. The correlation between the level of anticoagulation, risk factors, and post‐ECLS‐DVT was determined.

Results

We included 30 ECLS patients and 53 non‐ECLS patients. DVT was found in 15 patients (50%) of which 10 patients had a DVT in a cannulated vein. No correlation between the level of anticoagulation and DVT was found. V‐V ECLS mode was the only independent risk factor for post‐ECLS‐DVT (OR 5.5; 95%CI 1.16–26.41). We found no difference between the ECLS and non‐ECLS cohorts regarding cannula‐associated DVT rate (33% vs. 32%).

Conclusion

Post‐ECLS‐DVT is a common finding that occurs in half of all patients supported with ECLS. The incidence of cannula‐associated DVT was equal to CVC‐associated DVT in critically ill patients without ECLS. V‐V ECLS was an independent risk factor for post‐ECLS‐DVT.
R&D subsidies in a duopoly market with outsourcing to the rival firm
Authors: Fanti Luciano , Buccella Domenico , Gori Luca
Published: April 2022

This paper investigates the effects of a public uniform R&D subsidy policy in a downstream duopoly market in which a nonintegrated firm, which faces a lower marginal cost, outsources inputs from its vertically integrated rival. The findings show that, in this market structure, such a policy has relevant effects largely differentiated between downstream competitors, as it can significantly modify the relative market shares and profitability of competing firms. Unlike the standard Cournot setting augmented with R&D, results show that the subsidy policy can have different (counterintuitive) effects on R&D investments, output, and profits of the vertically integrated producer and the vertically separated firm, which hold in both cases of exogenous and endogenous (optimal) subsidy. Our findings offer some testable implications and suggest that a subsidy policy in a market with outsourcing to a rival should also consider the different effects of this approach on competitors.
Exploring intermediary practices of collaboration in university–industry innovation: A practice theory approach
Authors: Cirella Stefano , Murphy Stephen
Published: April 2022

The intensity of the global and distributed economy requires innovative efforts that single organizations often cannot develop alone. Collaborative innovation is traditionally studied in terms of collaborative process to maintain and outcomes to implement. However, collaborations relating to innovation often take place in difficult‐to‐explore spaces in‐between. This study adopts a practice‐based approach to explore practices of collaboration developed by the university as an intermediary in innovative projects. Drawing on a case study, we identify four micro‐practices that appear crucial to initiating and sustaining collaboration: networking, partnering, culture making and supporting. We outline the purpose and constituent objects, doings and knowledge of each practice. This article contributes to ongoing debate around improving the effectiveness of collaborative innovation and provides insights into how a set of apparently insignificant, routinized micro‐practices contribute to intermediaries' success in initiating and sustaining collaborations.
Government, trade and comparative advantage, revisited
Authors: Tawada Makoto , Suga Nobuhito , Yanase Akihiko
Published: April 2022

This study conducts a detailed analysis of the production possibility frontier (PPF) in an economy with two goods, each produced using labour and a specific factor as inputs, and public infrastructure, which has positive externalities on the production of each good. We show that if the elasticity of a specific factor input into production is sufficiently small, the PPF has a concave–convex–concave shape. Although our model is similar to the one developed in 1992 by Richard H. Clarida and Ronald Findlay, this possibility was overlooked in their analysis and it can generate trade patterns that are against the law of comparative advantage. Nevertheless, trade is always gainful and, as in the existing studies, trade openness increases the provision of public infrastructure in a country exporting goods whose productivity is highly dependent on infrastructure. We also examine the relationship between factor endowments and comparative advantage.
The effects of long‐term continuous positive airway pressure on apnea–hypopnea index change following short‐term that withdrawal in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Wang Longlong , Pan Minxia , Ou Qiong
Published: April 2022

The effect of long‐term continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) after CPAP withdrawal remains unclear, especially in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients screened from the population. To examine that, 1241 civil servants who participated in the annual physical examination were screened for OSA between September and December 2017. Screened OSA firstly underwent 1‐week CPAP adherence assessment. Then, patients with good CPAP adherence would be freely provided CPAP to continued treatment. All OSA patients were followed for 2 years. At study end, all OSA patients underwent home sleep testing (HST) again within 1 week of CPAP withdrawal. The effect of 2‐year CPAP treatment on OSA severity was investigated by using linear regression and multinominal logistic regression. In total, 103 OSA patients were screened, including 41 cases (39.8%) in CPAP treatment group and 62 cases (60.2%) in non‐CPAP treatment group. At 2‐year follow‐up, compared with baseline, in CPAP treatment group, following CPAP withdrawal, a significant decrease in AHI was observed in patients with severe OSA (P = 0.014); in non‐CPAP treatment group, a significant increase in AHI was observed in patients with moderate OSA (P = 0.028). After adjustment for confounding factors, multivariate linear regression showed that △AHI was negatively associated with CPAP treatment (β = −4.930, 95% confidence interval [CI] [−9.361, −0.500], P = 0.030). Multinominal logistic regression showed that the AHI of patients not treated with CPAP tended to be unchanged or worsened with the AHI improvement group as a reference (OR [odds ration] [95% CI], 4.555 [1.307, 15.875], P = 0.017; 6.536 [1.171, 36.478], P = 0.032). In conclusion, active OSA screening and long‐term CPAP intervention may improve the severity of severe OSA patients following short‐term CPAP withdrawal in the general population.
The trajectory of computer science education policy in Ireland: A document analysis narrative
Authors: Connolly Cornelia , Byrne Jake Rowan , Oldham Elizabeth
Published: April 2022

The launch of a Computer Science curriculum specification in upper secondary schools in Ireland in 2018 was a landmark and a historic development in Irish education. Addressing the historical policy decisions adopted towards establishing the specification, this paper presents an analysis of developments from the 1970s as revealed in key policies and other documents. Positioning the policy change within the context of influences, context of policy text production and within the context of practices, the paper presents an overview of the Irish Computer Science specification. Alongside the background to the evolution in computer science education over the period, the article takes into account the national and cultural contexts and narrates the journey travelled to arrive at this pivotal position. Developments in a global context are presented in comparison with curricula in other countries and some similarities and differences identified. The article uncovers consequences of the specification for the national curriculum, key skills integration and computer science teacher preparation. The article provides an important analysis of the policy trajectory of computer science in Ireland based on a visibly relevant corpus of documents tracing the different stages of this policy and comparing it to similar experiences implemented in other European countries.
Role modeling or reciprocity? Dyadic intergenerational transfer analysis of efficacy and support
Authors: Liu Rong‐Kou
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study examined intergenerational transmission of family members' mutual support and family efficacy beliefs.

Background

While social exchange theory assumes that reciprocity guides intergenerational transfers, social cognitive theory posits that family efficacy beliefs and behaviors may be acquired from vicarious experiences. This study examined these perspectives and considered cultural context and value orientations.

Method

A total of 1061 parent–adult child dyads were drawn from 2018 data of the Panel Study of Family Dynamics (Taiwan). The actor–partner interdependence model (APIM) and path modeling were used for statistical analysis.

Results

After controlling for demographic effects, parents' parental efficacy, rather than filial efficacy, was the key contributor to adult children's filial efficacy. No significant association was observed between adult children's and parents' upward support. Considering support type, emotional connection and housework help showed strong positive intergenerational relations. Financial provisions mainly related to filial norms.

Conclusion

Role modeling had a weak effect; the results are primarily consistent with the reciprocal perspective on intergenerational relations.

Implications

Although family ethics still deeply pervade Taiwanese society, parent–adult child mutual engagement, in addition to resources and demands, seems crucial for perceived family efficacy and mutual support. This study incorporates psychological factors to further explain the relationship between family efficacy and support.
Inhibition of lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammatory responses by 1′‐acetoxychavicol acetate
Authors: Ong Guang Han , Ori Daisuke , Kawasaki Takumi , Kawai Taro
Published: April 2022

Lipopolysaccharide on gram negative bacteria can be detected by Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) to elicit a series of innate immune responses, leading to inflammation to eliminate the targeted pathogen. However, dysregulation in the responses results in excessive inflammation. The 1′‐acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA) is a bioactive compound originated from Alpinia species known to have anti‐inflammatory and apoptosis‐inducing properties. Here, we found that ACA inhibits lipopolysaccharide‐induced expression and production of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 6 and TNFα by macrophages. ACA suppresses the activation of NF‐κB and MAP kinases in TLR4 signaling. Moreover, ACA also inhibits TLR4‐mediated induction of type I interferon by suppressing IRF3 activation. In lipopolysaccharide‐challenged mice, ACA treatment successfully increased the survival of mice and alleviated inflammation in the lung. Thus, ACA is a potential anti‐inflammatory agent to regulate excessive inflammation.
CTLA4‐Ig prevents development of neutralizing antibody formation after continuous treatment with human FVIII in HA rats
Authors: Øvlisen Gabi Overgaard , Thygesen Peter , Weldingh Karin Nana , Bloem Esther , Skov Søren , Almholt Kasper , Lövgren Karin Maria , Ley Carsten Dan , Holm Thomas Lindebo
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Immunogenicity causing development of anti‐drug antibodies (ADAs) are major challenges in the treatment of haemophilia, as well as other diseases where proteins are used for treatment. Furthermore, it is a complication for preclinical testing of such therapies in animal models.

Aim

To investigate if the immunosuppressive drug CTLA4 immunoglobulin (CTLA4‐Ig) can induce tolerance in haemophilia A (HA) rats receiving recombinant human coagulation factor VIII (rhFVIII) treatment.

Methods

Two different prophylactic rhFVIII compounds were given intravenously to HA rats for 4 weeks. Both rhFVIII compounds were co‐administered with commercially available CTLA4‐Ig or human IgG subclass 4 (hIgG4) as control, and blood samples were collected. To functionally test if pharmacological efficacy was retained, rats were subjected to a bleeding experiment under anaesthesia at end of study.

Results

The mean inhibitory level after 4 weeks in rats receiving rhFVIII and hIgG4 was 85.7 BU for octocog alfa and 37.4 BU for rurioctocog alfa pegol. In contrast, co‐administration with CTLA4‐Ig during rhFVIII therapy prevented the formation of ADAs (both binding and inhibitory) in 14/14 rats receiving octocog alfa and in 7/7 rats receiving rurioctocog alfa pegol. Moreover, we were able to show that the pharmacological efficacy of rhFVIII was preserved.

Conclusion

In a rat model with spontaneous bleeding, co‐administration of CTLA4‐Ig with rhFVIII prevented antibody formation. No FVIII antibodies were detected, demonstrating that CTLA4‐Ig co‐administration can be applicable as a method to prevent immunogenicity, when evaluating human proteins in preclinical systems permitting continuous pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic assessment.
Most bothersome symptoms in patients with migraine: A hospital‐based study in Taiwan
Authors: Tu Yi‐Hsien , Wang Yen‐Feng , Yuan Hsiangkuo , Chen Shih‐Pin , Tzeng Yi‐Shiang , Chen Wei‐Ta , Lai Kuan‐Lin , Ling Yu‐Hsiang , Wang Shuu‐Jiun
Published: April 2022

Objective

To investigate the distribution, clinical associations, and treatment responses for the most bothersome symptoms of migraine in a large sample of patients with migraine in Taiwan.

Background

The most bothersome symptom is recently recommended as a co‐primary endpoint in clinical trials of acute treatment of migraine. However, most clinical trials and observational studies have been conducted in the United States and Europe, with photophobia representing the most common most bothersome symptom.

Methods

Patients who were newly diagnosed with migraine by headache specialists in Taipei Veterans General Hospital were recruited. All participants completed a questionnaire for headache profile, including the most bothersome symptom. Clinical associations of the most bothersome symptoms and response rates to previous acute treatments were analyzed.

Results

Among the recruited 1188 patients with migraine (female 79.4%, mean age 39.0 ± 12.1 years) in this cross‐sectional study, nausea (n = 729/1188, 61.4%) was the most common symptom that was most bothersome, followed by phonophobia (n = 280/1188, 23.6%), and photophobia (n = 122/1188, 10.3%). The frequency ranking was the same regardless of sex and age. Compared to migraine without aura, migraine with aura was associated with photophobia (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.76–5.0, p < 0.001). Chronic migraine was associated with phonophobia (adjusted OR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.13–2.01, p = 0.005), but there was a lower chance for nausea (adjusted OR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.53–0.88, p = 0.004), as the most bothersome symptom. Patients with different most‐bothersome symptoms responded similarly to previous acute treatments, with an overall response rate of 52.2% (n = 550/1053).

Conclusion

Patients with migraine in Taiwan reported a distinct ranking of the most bothersome symptom. However, the response rates of the most bothersome symptom and headache were similar, which supports the most bothersome symptom as an outcome measure for acute treatment of migraine. Further studies recruiting different populations are required to investigate regional differences in most bothersome symptoms.
Anthocyanin‐rich fruit vinegar from Grewia and Cantaloupe fruit blends
Authors: Gaur Rudra Shalini , Singh Sunita , H. Harish , Bollinedi Haritha , Singh Kamalesh Narain , Nain Lata , Singh Surender , Awasthi Om Prakash
Published: April 2022

Grewia is a tropical berry rich in anthocyanins and antioxidants but highly perishable in nature. In this study, desirable composite blend of overripe Grewia (Phalsa) berries and cantaloupe was sought for conversion to acetic acid. Composition of raw macerate, and the alcoholic and acetic ferments was analysed for sugars, alcohol and acetic acid. The primary alcohol yield varied significantly (5.75–99.44%) with blend composition. Vinegar from select blend attained 4.98% acidity with 138.57 mg mL−1 of phenols and high anthocyanins retention (74.77%). Gompertz model was used to fit the growth curves of S. cerevisiae and A. aceti (R2> 0.92) during fermentation. Presence of ethyl acetate, iso‐pentyl alcohols explained pleasant sweet fruity aroma of resulting vinegar. Thus, high quality functional red fruit vinegar can be obtained to prevent spoilage and utilise the functional potential of this delicate and nutritious berry.
First isolation of Flavobacterium psychrophilum from wild adult Great Lakes lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis)
Authors: Harrison Courtney E. , Knupp Christopher K. , Brenden Travis O. , Ebener Mark P. , Loch Thomas P.
Published: April 2022

Lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis; LWF) is an economically and ecologically valuable native species to the Great Lakes, but recent declines in their recruitment have generated significant concern about their future viability. Although studies have sought to identify factors contributing to declining recruitment, the potential role(s) of infectious diseases has not been thoroughly investigated. In 2018 and 2019, adult LWF were collected from Lakes Superior, Michigan, and Huron for clinical examination and bacteriological analyses. Herein, we describe the first isolation of Flavobacterium psychrophilum, aetiological agent of bacterial coldwater disease (BCWD) and rainbow trout fry syndrome (RTFS), from systemically infected adult LWF. Bacterial isolates were yellow‐orange, Gram‐negative, filamentous bacilli that were oxidase and catalase positive, and produced a flexirubin‐type pigment in 3% potassium hydroxide. Isolate identity was confirmed via F. psychrophilum‐specific PCR, and multilocus sequence typing revealed three new singleton sequence types (STs) that were distinct from all previously described F. psychrophilum STs. The prevalence of F. psychrophilum infections was 3.3, 1.7, and 0.0% in Lakes Superior, Michigan and Huron respectively. Findings illustrate the potential for F. psychrophilum to cause systemic infections in adult LWF and highlight the need for future studies to investigate the bacterium's potential role in declining LWF recruitment.
Mobile shopping beauty live commerce changes in COVID‐19 pandemic focused on fun contents of MZ generation in Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee Jinkyung , Kwon Ki Han
Published: April 2022

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is the new virus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. According to these circumstances, a study was conducted to prepare a long‐term non‐face‐to‐face outpatient treatment service during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Given the current situation of the times, it is expected that there will be no return to the non‐face‐to‐face prior.

Objectives

Therefore, this study descriptively investigated changes in consumer demand for new changes in the cosmetic market that has changed since COVID‐19.

Methods

It was written with reference to keywords such as “Covid Mobile Shopping,” “Covid MZ Generation,” “Covid Live Commerce,” and “Fun Content.” This study was conducted by searches on PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus, and ResearchGate. A total of 398 papers were found, of which 40 were successfully included in this study.

Results

It is expected that this era will be centered on the MZ generation, which has emerged as a new consumer in the market, where individual tastes and individuality are emphasized. Millennials and Generation Z, also called the “SNS generation,” are focusing on consumption trends.

Conclusion

It is expected that this review will be used as important marketing material for a new change in the cosmetics market by clearly understanding the consumer needs of the cosmetics industry that has changed in the untact era.
Stone tools, predictive processing and the evolution of language
Authors: Pain Ross
Published: April 2022

Recent work by Stout and colleagues indicates that the neural correlates of language and Early Stone Age toolmaking overlap significantly. The aim of this paper is to add computational detail to their findings. I use an error minimisation model to outline where the information processing overlap between toolmaking and language lies. I argue that the Early Stone Age signals the emergence of complex structured representations. I then highlight a feature of my account: It allows us to understand the early evolution of syntax in terms of an increase in the number and complexity of models in a cognitive system, rather than the development of new types of processing.
Morphology and physiology in some small pelagic cetaceans: Is Dall's porpoise a deep diver and a thoroughbred of the sea?
Authors: Ponganis Paul J. , Fujise Yoshihiro , Miyazaki Nobuyuki
Published: April 2022

Heart size and blood oxygen (O2) in Dall's porpoises (Phocoenoides dalli), Pacific white‐sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens), and common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) correlate with reported swim speeds and dive behavior. Deep‐dive capacity is often associated with smaller relative lung masses, larger “inexpensive” tissue masses (locomotor muscle + blubber + bone masses), and larger total O2 stores. To gain insight into dive behaviors and surface travel of small pelagic cetaceans, we compared body compositions of Dall's porpoises, Pacific white‐sided dolphins, and northern right whale dolphins (Lissodelphis borealis) to the bottlenose dolphin. Relative lung masses, inexpensive tissue masses, and total O2 stores of Dall's porpoises and Pacific white‐sided dolphins were consistent with deeper dive capacities than in the coastal bottlenose dolphin. In contrast to known low myoglobin concentrations in northern right whale dolphins, inexpensive tissue mass suggested intermediate dive capacity. The estimated body O2 store of Dall's porpoise was among the highest of any cetacean. The relatively large hearts of Dall's porpoises, Pacific white‐sided dolphins, and northern right whale dolphins are hypothesized as especially important during high‐speed surface travel. Based on similarities in locomotory performance, morphology, and physiology to those of the horse, we consider Dall's porpoise a thoroughbred of the sea.
Mechanism of METTL14 and m6A modification of lncRNA MALAT1 in the proliferation of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Li Jinli , Momen‐Heravi Fatemeh , Wu Xun , He Kaili
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Methyltransferase‐like 14 (METTL14) plays an epigenetic role in various cancer through N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification. This study sought to analyze the mechanism of METTL14 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell proliferation.

Methods

Expression levels of METTL14, lncRNA metastasis associated with lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (lncRNA MALAT1), microRNA (miR)‐224‐5p, and histone lysine demethylase 2A (KDM2A) in OSCC tissues (N = 40), and cell lines (FaDu, SCC‐25, CAL‐27, and SCC‐15) were detected. Cell viability and colony formation capacity were assessed. m6A level, stability, and subcellular localization of lncRNA MALAT1 were determined. Nude mouse xenograft tumor assay was performed to confirm the role of METTL14 in vivo.

Results

METTL14 and lncRNA MALAT1 were upregulated, and miR‐224‐5p was downregulated in OSCC tissues and cells. Silencing METTL14 repressed OSCC cell viability and colony formation. Overexpression of MALAT1 and KDM2A or miR‐224‐5p downregulation reversed the inhibition of silencing METTL14 on OSCC cell proliferation. METTL14 induced m6A modification of MALAT1 to upregulate MALAT1. MALAT1 is comparatively bound to miR‐224‐5p to promote KDM2A transcription. In vivo, METTL14 promoted tumor growth via regulating MALAT1/miR‐224‐5p/ KDM2A.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings verified the therapeutic role of silencing METTL14 in OSCC treatment through the MALAT1/miR‐224‐5p/KDM2A axis.
Epstein–Barr virus‐associated risk factors for post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease in pediatric liver transplant recipients
Authors: Quintero Bernabeu Jesus , Juamperez Javier , Mercadal‐Hally Maria , Larrarte King Mauricio , Gallego Melcon Soledad , Gros Subias Luis , Sábado Álvarez Constantino , Soler‐Palacin Pere , Melendo Pérez Susana , Esperalba Juliana , Navarro Jiménez Alexandra , Garrido Pontnou Marta , Camacho Soriano Jessica , Hidalgo Llompart Ernest , Bilbao Aguirre Itxarone , Charco Torra Ramón
Published: April 2022

Background

Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) are the most common de novo malignancies after liver transplantation (LT) in children. The aim of our study was to assess the role of pre‐LT EBV status and post‐LT EBV viral load as risk factors for developing PTLD in a cohort of pediatric LT recipients.

Methods

Data of all children who underwent LT between January 2002 and December 2019 were collected. Two cohorts were built EBV pre‐LT primary infected cohort and EBV post‐LT primary infected cohort. Moreover, using the maximal EBV viral load, a ROC curve was constructed to find a cutoff point for the diagnosis of PTLD.

Results

Among the 251 patients included in the study, fifteen PTLD episodes in 14 LT recipients were detected (2 plasmacytic hyperplasia, 10 polymorphic PTLD, 2 monomorphic PTLD, and 1 Classical‐Hodgkin's lymphoma). Patients of the EBV post‐LT primary infected cohort were 17.1 times more likely to develop a PTLD than patients of the EBV pre‐LT primary infected cohort (2.2–133.5). The EBV viral load value to predict PTLD was set at 211 000 UI/mL (93.3% sensitivity and 77.1% specificity; AUC 93.8%; IC 0.89–0.98). In EBV post‐LT primary infected cohort, patients with a viral load above 211 000 were 30 times more likely to develop PTLD than patients with a viral load below this value (OR 29.8; 3.7–241.1; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The combination of pretransplant EBV serological status with EBV post‐transplant viral load could be a powerful tool to stratify the risk of PTLD in pediatric LT patients.
Effects of tacrolimus intrapatient variability and CYP3A5 polymorphism on the outcomes of pediatric kidney transplantation
Authors: Choi Jin Sun , Ko Hyunmin , Kim Hyo Kee , Chung Chris , Han Ahram , Min Seung‐Kee , Ha Jongwon , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il Soo , Min Sangil
Published: April 2022

Background

The intrapatient variability (IPV) of tacrolimus (Tac) is associated with the long‐term outcome of kidney transplantation. The CYP3A single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) may affect the IPV of Tac. We investigated the impact of IPV and genetic polymorphism in pediatric patients who received kidney transplantation.

Methods

A total of 202 pediatric renal transplant recipients from 2000 to 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. The IPV was calculated between 6 and 12 months after surgery. Among these patients, CYP3A5 polymorphism was analyzed in 67 patients.

Results

The group with high IPV had a significantly higher rate of de novo donor‐specific human leukocyte antigen antibodies (dnDSA) development (35.7% vs. 16.7%, p = .003). The high IPV group also had a higher incidence of T‐cell‐mediated rejection (TCMR; p < .001). The high IPV had no significant influence on Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and BK virus viremia but was associated with the incidence of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders (p = .003). Overall, the graft survival rate was inferior in the high IPV group (p < .001). The CYP3A5 SNPs did not significantly affect the IPV of Tac. In the CYP3A5 expressor group, however, the IPV was significantly associated with the TCMR‐free survival rate (p < .001).

Conclusion

The IPV of Tac had a significant impact on dnDSA development, occurrence of acute TCMR, and graft failure in pediatric patients who received renal transplantation. CYP3A5 expressors with high IPV of Tac showed worse outcomes, while the CYP3A5 polymorphism had no impact on IPV of Tac.
Synergistic effects of myo‐inositol and melatonin on cryopreservation of goat spermatozoa
Authors: Tanhaei Vash Nima , Nadri Parisa , Karimi Akbar
Published: April 2022

Overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during sperm cryopreservation has a detrimental effect on sperm parameters. Therefore, the use of antioxidants in the sperm freezing extender can reduce ROS destructive effects. In this study, we investigated whether co‐supplementation of melatonin and myo‐inositol into the semen extender can improve the post‐cryopreservation quality of goat spermatozoa. After the freeze–thawing process, sperm motility, viability, plasma membrane and acrosome intact morphology were improved in the combined myo‐inositol and melatonin group compared to both individual and the control groups (p < .05). In addition, the mean of sperm ROS, DNA damage and lipid peroxidation were reduced in co‐supplementation of myo‐inositol and melatonin compared to their individual counterparts (p < .05). Therefore, the synergistic effects of myo‐inositol and melatonin on the cryopreserved spermatozoa are highly likely mediated through the reduction in important factors involved in the sperm lipid peroxidation. Finally, we used the cryopreserved spermatozoa for in vitro production of embryos. Results showed that combined group of myo‐inositol and melatonin improved the cleavage rate compared to both individual and control groups, although blastocyst rate was improved using both individual and combined groups. In conclusion, co‐supplementation of melatonin and myo‐inositol is a promising approach for the improvement of goat sperm cryopreservation.
ABI3‐ and PIF1‐mediated regulation of GIG1 enhances seed germination by detoxification of methylglyoxal in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kim Dong‐Hwan , Lee Sang Woo , Moon Heewon , Choi Dasom , Kim Sujeong , Kang Hajeong , Kim Jungtae , Choi Giltsu , Huq Enamul
Published: April 2022

Methylglyoxal (MG) is a toxic by‐product of the glycolysis pathway in most living organisms and was previously shown to inhibit seed germination. MG is detoxified by glyoxalase I and II family proteins in plants. MG is abundantly produced during early embryogenesis in Arabidopsis seeds. However, the mechanism that alleviates the toxic effect of MG in maturing seeds is poorly understood. In this study, by T‐DNA mutant population screening, we found that mutations in a glyoxalase I gene (named GERMINATION‐IMPAIRED GLYOXALASE 1, GIG1) led to significantly impaired germination compared with wild‐type seeds. Transformation of full‐length GIG1 cDNA under the constitutively active cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter in the gig1 background completely recovered the seed germination phenotype. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) analyses revealed that GIG1 is uniquely expressed in seeds and is upregulated by abscisic acid (ABA) and downregulated by gibberellic acid (GA) during seed germination. An ABA signaling component, ABI3, directly activated GIG1 in maturing seeds. In addition, PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR 1 (PIF1) also plays cooperatively with ABI3 in the regulation of GIG1 expression in the early stage of imbibed seeds. Furthermore, GIG1 expression is stably silenced by epigenetic repressors such as polycomb repressor complexes. Altogether, our results indicate that light and ABA signaling cooperate to enhance seed germination by the upregulation of GIG1 to detoxify MG in maturing seeds.
Duodenal leiomyosarcoma in a cat: Cytologic, pathologic, and immunohistochemical findings
Authors: Henker Luan C. , Dal Pont Tainah P. , dos Santos Igor R. , Bandinelli Marcele B. , Zardo Izadora L. , Rodrigues Rochana , Pavarini Saulo P.
Published: April 2022

A 7‐year‐old mixed‐breed neutered male cat was presented with a history of chronic vomiting with increased frequency in the last month, progressing to depression and profuse projectile vomiting. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed an area of marked segmental duodenal thickening associated with a nodule, and euthanasia was performed due to a poor prognosis. Grossly, at the postmortem examination, the wall of a duodenal segment was severely expanded by a nodule measuring 5.0 cm in diameter, resulting in marked luminal narrowing and obstruction. Smears were made by scraping the cut surface of the tumor during the postmortem examination. The smears were highly cellular and contained mesenchymal cells arranged individually or in large non‐cohesive aggregates. Cells varied in morphology from spindle to round to stellate‐shaped with marked anisocytosis and anisokaryosis. Numerous bi‐ and multinucleated neoplastic cells were observed. Histologic examination revealed a densely cellular neoplastic proliferation of mesenchymal cells that effaced the duodenal submucosa, muscularis externa, and serosa layers. Most cells were spindle‐shaped; however, some tumor areas had numerous round cells and bi‐ and multinucleated neoplastic cells. Spindle cells showed variable cytoplasmic immunoreactivity for vimentin, smooth muscle actin, and desmin. Round, bi‐, and multinucleated giant cells only had marked multifocal cytoplasmic immunoreactivity for vimentin. Neoplastic cells did not have immunoreactivity for cytokeratin, GFAP, S100, and CD117. A final diagnosis of duodenal leiomyosarcoma was made. This article reports the pathologic, cytologic, and immunohistochemical findings of this case and discusses the main differential diagnoses in cases of intestinal sarcomas in domestic animals.
COMPARISON OF TECHNOLOGY OF RADIATION VULCANIZED NATURAL RUBBER LATEX USING UV-MERCURY LAMP, UV-LED LAMP, AND PLASMA CATHODE-BASED EBM IRRADIATORS
Authors: Widiyati Cahya , Poernomo Herry
Published: April 2022

The electron beam machine (EBM) irradiators based on plasma cathode that emit pulse electron beam for radiation vulcanized natural rubber latex (RVNRL) have been developed in Tomsk, Russia. Meanwhile, a prototype of an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) irradiator for RVNRL has been developed by the Research Technology Center for Accelerator and the ATK Polytechnic in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This research aims to compare the irradiator prototype technology for RVNRL. The RVNRL technology comparison method is carried out by assessing the specifications and performance of the equipment, costs (investment, operational, maintenance), hazard, and operability. The results of the comparison of irradiator technology for RVNRL show that the UV-LED irradiators are superior to the UV-mercury irradiators and the plasma cathode-based EBM irradiators which gives a total value of 476, 412, and 248, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that the UV-LED irradiators technology for RVNRL is simpler, more practical, economical, and environmentally friendly compared to the UV-mercury irradiators and the plasma cathode-based EBM irradiators.
Experimental Investigation on Leakage Characteristics of Low-Hysteresis Brush Seals
Authors: Li Pengfei , Hu Yaping , Ji Honghu , Cui Xuechao , Liu Lei , Li Shiming
Published: April 2022

Brush seals are widely used in industry because of their excellent contact and flexible sealing. This paper investigates the influence of the axial width of the pressure relief chamber and the bristle diameter on the leakage characteristics of brush seals. Rotor speed cycle tests are conducted using low-hysteresis brush seals, and the rotor's centrifugal expansion and recovery process is simulated by increasing and decreasing the rotor diameter in the static state. The results show that the low-hysteresis structure has better sealing performance than the conventional brush seal, and the optimal axial width of the pressure relief chamber is 0.4 mm. This structure gives the smallest leakage amount. The leakage coefficient of the low-hysteresis structure with a bristle diameter of 0.13 mm is about 37% higher than that with a bristle diameter of 0.08 mm over the entire test speed range and exhibits stronger hysteresis effects. The results of this paper can be used as a reference for the design of brush seals for engineering applications.
Unique Contributions of the King-Devick and Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Bigelow Ty B. , Joyce Meredith E. , Santo Ashley L.
Published: April 2022

Focused Clinical Question: Is there a relationship between performance on the King-Devick test and the vestibular/ocular motor screening in youth and young adults? Clinical Bottom Line: There was insufficient evidence to definitively determine if there is a relationship between performance on the King-Devick test and vestibular/ocular motor screening in youth and young adults.
Selective Inhibition of Plasmodium falciparum ATPase 6 by Artemisinins and Identification of New Classes of Inhibitors after Expression in Yeast
Authors: Moore Catherine M. , Wang Jigang , Lin Qingsong , Ferreira Pedro , Avery Mitchell A. , Elokely Khaled , Staines Henry M. , Krishna Sanjeev
Published: April 2022

Treatment failures with artemisinin combination therapies (ACTs) threaten global efforts to eradicate malaria. They highlight the importance of identifying drug targets and new inhibitors and of studying how existing antimalarial classes work.
Deciphering Molecular Mechanism Underlying Self-Flocculation of Zymomonas mobilis for Robust Production
Authors: Cao Lian-Ying , Yang Yong-Fu , Zhang Xue , Chen Yun-Hao , Yao Ji-Wen , Wang Xia , Xia Juan , Liu Chen-Guang , Yang Shi-Hui , Römling Ute , Bai Feng-Wu
Published: April 2022

Stress tolerance is a prerequisite for microbial cell factories to be robust in production, particularly for biorefinery of lignocellulosic biomass to produce biofuels, bioenergy, and bio-based chemicals for sustainable socioeconomic development, since various inhibitors are released during the pretreatment to destroy the recalcitrant lignin-carbohydrate complex for sugar production through enzymatic hydrolysis of the cellulose component, and their detoxification is too costly for producing bulk commodities. Although tolerance to individual stress has been intensively studied, the progress seems less significant since microbial cells are inevitably suffering from multiple stresses simultaneously under production conditions.
Localization and RNA Interference-Driven Inhibition of a Brugia malayi-Encoded Interleukin-5 Receptor Binding Protein
Authors: Mejia Rojelio , Bennuru Sasisekhar , Oksov Yelena , Lustigman Sara , Munirathinam Gnanasekar , Kalyanasundaram Ramaswamy , Nutman Thomas B.
Published: April 2022

A molecule we termed
Brugia malayi
IL-5 receptor (IL-5R) binding protein (BmIL5Rbp; also known as Bm8757) was identified from
B. malayi
filarial worms and found to inhibit human interleukin-5 (IL-5) binding to its human receptor competitively. After the expression and purification of a recombinant BmIL5Rbp and generation of BmIL5Rbp-specific rabbit antibody, we localized the molecule on
B. malayi
worms through immunohistochemistry and immunoelectron microscopy.
Acetylation of CspC Controls the Las Quorum-Sensing System through Translational Regulation of
rsaL
in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Li Shouyi , Gong Xuetao , Yin Liwen , Pan Xiaolei , Jin Yongxin , Bai Fang , Cheng Zhihui , Ha Un-Hwan , Wu Weihui
Published: April 2022

Bacterial infectious diseases impose a severe threat to human health. The ability to orchestrate virulence determinant in response to the host environment is critical for the pathogenesis of bacterial pathogens.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is a leading pathogen that causes various infections in humans.
Complete Genome Sequence of Klebsiella quasipneumoniae MMCC7, Isolated from an Eclectus Parrot (Eclectus roratus)
Authors: Cheng M. M. C. , Lai G. K. K. , Griffin S. D. J. , Leung F. C. C.
Published: April 2022

Klebsiella quasipneumoniae
MMCC7 is a multidrug- and heavy metal-resistant strain isolated from the feces of a pet shop eclectus parrot in Hong Kong. The complete genome, a single chromosome and circular plasmid (5,382,488 bp; G+C content, 57.79%), was determined by hybrid assembly.
Reevaluation of the Phylogenetic Diversity and Global Distribution of the Genus “CandidatusAccumulibacter”
Authors: Petriglieri Francesca , Singleton Caitlin M. , Kondrotaite Zivile , Dueholm Morten K. D. , McDaniel Elizabeth A. , McMahon Katherine D. , Nielsen Per H.
Published: April 2022

“CandidatusAccumulibacter” is the most studied PAO, with a primary role in biological nutrient removal. However, the species-level taxonomy of this lineage is convoluted due to the use of different phylogenetic markers or genome sequencing approaches. Here, we redefined the phylogeny of these organisms, proposing a comprehensive approach which could be used to address the classification of other diverse and uncultivated lineages.
Two-Dimensional Cell Separation: a High-Throughput Approach to Enhance the Culturability of Bacterial Cells from Environmental Samples
Authors: Yadav Krishna K. , Nimonkar Yogesh , Poddar Bhagyashri J. , Kovale Lochana , Sagar Isita , Shouche Yogesh , Purohit Hemant J. , Khardenavis Anshuman A. , Green Stefan J. , Prakash Om
Published: April 2022

In the manuscript, we have developed a novel yet simple and innovative approach to improving the cultivability of natural microorganisms without sophisticated instrumentation. The method used gradient centrifugation combined with serial dilution (two-dimensional cell separation) to improve taxum recovery from samples.
Infective endocarditis secondary toKlebsiella pneumoniae-associated emphysematous cystitis
Authors: Maruo Hiroko , Ohsugi Koichi , Maruta Kazuto , Kotani Toru
Published: April 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniaeis responsible for about 1.5% of infective endocarditis (IE) cases. IE caused by community-acquiredK. pneumoniaeinfection has rarely been reported. An 80-year-old man presented at our hospital with hypotension and hypoxaemia, and a history of aortic valve stenosis and no history of recent dental treatment. Transthoracic echocardiography at admission showed no signs of heart failure or vegetation. CT revealed typical signs of emphysematous cystitis (EC). The patient was treated for EC-associated septic shock.K. pneumoniaewas detected in urine and blood cultures on day 3. Symptoms of heart failure developed on day 6 and clinical examination revealed a heart murmur. An identification of vegetation and perforation of the mitral valve on repeat echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis of IE secondary toK. pneumoniaeinfection. A surgical valve replacement was performed on day 7. Repeated point-of-care ultrasound played a role in the early diagnosis of IE.