bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of nanographene binding-scores to trout cellular receptors and cytochromes
Authors: Connolly M. C. , Navas J.M. , Coll J.
Published: February 2021

To address the increasing concerns surrounding possible impacts of graphene-related materials on the aquatic environment, this study focused on computational predictions of binding between models of graphenes in the nm size range (nanographenes, nGs) and the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (tAHR) and P450 cytochromes (tCYPs) of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The tAHR plays a key role in the induction of detoxifying and early immune responses and tCYPs are essential for detoxifying planar hydrophobic chemicals such as nGs. After 3D modelling of those trout proteins, docking algorithms predicted the size-dependance profiles of nGs binding-scores to tAHR and tCYPs in the low nM range (high binding-affinities). Virtual oxidations of nGs to nGOs (carboxy-, epoxy-and/or hydroxy-oxidations) further lowered the corresponding binding-scores in level/type-oxidation manners. Among all the tCYPs, the tCYP3AR (the equivalent to human CYP3A4) was identified as a potential key interaction enzyme for nGs because of its lower binding-scores. These results implicate a possible processing pathway to be further probed through in vitro and in vivo experimentation. Together the information generated can be pivotal for the design of safer graphene-related materials for a variety of applications and help to understand their detoxification in aquatic vertebrates.
Comparative analysis of 16S rRNA gene and metagenome sequencing in pediatric gut microbiomes
Authors: Peterson Danielle , Bonham Kevin S. , Rowland Sophie , Pattanayak Cassandra W. ,   RESONANCE Consortium, Klepac-Ceraj Vanja
Published: February 2021

The colonization of the human gut microbiome begins at birth, and, over time, these microbial communities become increasingly complex. Most of what we currently know about the human microbiome, especially in early stages of development, was described using culture-independent sequencing methods that allow us to identify the taxonomic composition of microbial communities using genomic techniques, such as amplicon or shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Each method has distinct tradeoffs, but there has not been a direct comparison of the utility of these methods in stool samples from very young children, which have different features than those of adults. We compared the effects of profiling the human infant gut microbiome with 16S rRNA amplicon versus shotgun metagenomic sequencing techniques in 130 fecal samples; younger than 15, 15-30, and older than 30 months of age. We demonstrate that observed changes in alpha-diversity and beta-diversity with age occur to similar extents using both profiling methods. We also show that 16S rRNA profiling identified a larger number of genera and we find several genera that are missed or underrepresented by each profiling method. We present the link between alpha diversity and shotgun metagenomic sequencing depth for children of different ages. These findings provide a guide for selecting an appropriate method and sequencing depth for the three studied age groups.
Condensates in RNA Repeat Sequences are Heterogeneously Organized and Exhibit Reptation-like Dynamics
Authors: Nguyen Hung T. , Hori Naoto , Thirumalai D.
Published: February 2021

Although it is known that RNA undergoes liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), the interplay between the molecular driving forces and the emergent features of the condensates, such as their morphologies and dynamical properties, is not well understood. We introduce a coarse-grained model to simulate phase separation of trinucleotide repeat RNAs, which are implicated in neurological disorders such as Huntington disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. After establishing that the simulations reproduce key experimental findings (length and concentration dependence of the phase transition in (CAG)nrepeats), we show that once recruited inside the liquid droplets, the monomers transition from hairpin-like structures to extended states. Interactions between the monomers in the condensates result in the formation of an intricate and dense intermolecular network, which severely restrains the fluctuations and mobilities of the RNAs inside large droplets. In the largest densely packed high viscosity droplets, the mobility of RNA chains is best characterized by reptation, reminiscent of the dynamics in polymer melts. Our work provides a microscopic framework for understanding liquid–liquid phase separation in RNA, which is not easily discernible in current experiments.
Ku70 suppresses alternative end-joining in G1-arrested progenitor B cells
Authors: Liang Zhuoyi , Kumar Vipul , Le Bouteiller Marie , Zurita Jeffrey , Kenrick Josefin , Lin Sherry G. , Lou Jiangman , Hu Jianqiao , Ye Adam Yongxin , Boboila Cristian , Alt Frederick W. , Frock Richard L.
Published: February 2021

Classical nonhomologous end-joining (C-NHEJ) repairs DNA double-stranded breaks (DSBs) throughout interphase but predominates in G1-phase when homologous recombination is unavailable. Complexes containing the Ku70/80 (“Ku”) and XRCC4/Ligase IV (Lig4) core C-NHEJ factors are required, respectively, for sensing and joining DSBs. While XRCC4/Ligase IV are absolutely required for joining RAG1/2-endonucease (“RAG”)-initiated DSBs during V(D)J recombination in G1-phase progenitor lymphocytes, cycling cells deficient for XRCC4/Ligase IV also can join chromosomal DSBs by alternative end-joining (A-EJ) pathways. Restriction of V(D)J recombination by XRCC4/Ligase IV-mediated joining has been attributed to RAG shepherding V(D)J DSBs exclusively into the C-NHEJ pathway. Here, we report that A-EJ of DSB ends generated by RAG1/2, Cas9:gRNA and Zinc finger endonucleases in Lig4-deficient G1-arrested progenitor B cell lines is suppressed by Ku. Thus, while diverse DSBs remain largely as free broken ends in Lig4-deficient G1-arrested progenitor B cells, deletion of Ku70 increases DSB rejoining and translocation levels to those observed in Ku70-deficient counterparts. Correspondingly, while RAG-initiated V(D)J DSB joining is abrogated in Lig4-deficient G1-arrested progenitor B cell lines, joining of RAG-generated DSBs in Ku70-deficient and Ku70/Lig4 double-deficient lines occurs through a translocation-like A-EJ mechanism. Thus, in G1-arrested, Lig4-deficient progenitor B cells are functionally end-joining suppressed due to Ku-dependent blockage of A-EJ, potentially, in association with G1-phase down-regulation of Ligase1. Finally, we suggest that differential impacts of Ku-deficiency versus Lig4-deficiency on V(D)J recombination, neuronal apoptosis, and embryonic development results from Ku-mediated inhibition of A-EJ in the G1 cell cycle phase in Lig4-defcient developing lymphocyte and neuronal cells.

Significance Statement

Alternative end-joining (A-EJ) is implicated in oncogenic translocations and mediating DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair in cycling cells when classical nonhomologous endjoining (C-NHEJ) factors of the C-NHEJ Ligase complex are absent. However, V(D)J recombination-associated DSBs that occur in G1 cell cycle-phase progenitor lymphocytes are joined exclusively by the C-NHEJ pathway. Until now, however, the overall mechanisms that join general DSBs in G1-phase progenitor B cells had not been fully elucidated. Here, we report that Ku, a core C-NHEJ double-strand break recognition complex, directs repair of a variety of different targeted DSBs towards C-NHEJ and suppresses A-EJ in G1-phase cells. We suggest this Ku activity explains how Ku-deficiency can rescue the neuronal development and embryonic lethality phenotype of Ligase 4-deficient mice.
Structure-based prediction of HDAC6 substrates validated by enzymatic assay reveals determinants of promiscuity and detects new potential substrates
Authors: Varga Julia K. , Diffley Kelsey , Welker Leng Katherine R. , Fierke Carol A. , Schueler-Furman Ora
Published: February 2021

Histone deacetylases play important biological roles well beyond the deacetylation of histone tails. In particular, HDAC6 is involved in multiple cellular processes such as apoptosis, cytoskeleton reorganization, and protein folding, affecting substrates such as α-tubulin, Hsp90 and cortactin proteins. We have applied a biochemical enzymatic assay to measure the activity of HDAC6 on a set of candidate unlabeled peptides. These served for the calibration of a structure-based substrate prediction protocol, Rosetta FlexPepBind, previously used for the successful substrate prediction of HDAC8 and other enzymes. A proteome-wide screen of reported acetylation sites using our calibrated protocol together with the enzymatic assay provide new peptide substrates and avenues to novel potential functional regulatory roles of this promiscuous, multi-faceted enzyme. In particular, we propose novel regulatory roles of HDAC6 in tumorigenesis and cancer cell survival via the regulation of the EGFR/Akt pathway activation process. The calibration process and comparison of the results between HDAC6 and HDAC8 highlight structural differences that explain the established promiscuity of HDAC6.
Mechanical mapping of mammalian follicle development using Brillouin microscopy
Authors: Chan Chii Jou , Bevilacqua Carlo , Prevedel Robert
Published: February 2021

In early mammalian development, the maturation of follicles containing the immature oocytes is an important biological process as the functional oocytes provide the bulk genetic and cytoplasmic materials for successful reproduction. Despite recent work demonstrating the regulatory role of mechanical stress in oocyte growth, quantitative studies of ovarian mechanical properties remain lacking bothin vivoandex vivo. In this work, we quantify the material properties of ooplasm, follicles and connective tissues in intact mouse ovaries at distinct stages of follicle development using Brillouin microscopy, a non-invasive tool to probe mechanics in three-dimensional (3D) tissues. We find that the ovarian cortex and its interior stroma have distinct material properties associated with extracellular matrix deposition, and that intra-follicular mechanical compartments emerge during follicle maturation. Our work provides a novel approach to study the role of mechanics in follicle morphogenesis and pave the way for future understanding of mechanotransduction in reproductive biology, with potential implications for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
Longitudinally stable, brain-based predictive models mediate the relationships between childhood cognition and socio-demographic, psychological and genetic factors
Authors: Pat Narun , Wang Yue , Anney Richard , Riglin Lucy , Thapar Anita , Stringaris Argyris
Published: February 2021

Cognitive abilities are one of the major transdiagnostic domains in the National Institute of Mental Health’s Research Domain Criteria (RDoC). Following RDoC’s integrative approach, we aimed to develop brain-based predictive models for cognitive abilities that a) are developmentally stable over years during adolescence and b) account for the relationships between cognitive abilities and socio-demographic, psychological and genetic factors. For this, we leveraged the unique power of the large-scale, longitudinal data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study (n ∼11k) and combined MRI data across modalities (task-fMRI from three tasks, resting-state fMRI, structural MRI, DTI) using machine-learning. Our brain-based, predictive models for cognitive abilities were stable across two years during young adolescence and generalisable to different sites, partially predicting childhood cognition at around 20% of the variance. Moreover, our use of ‘opportunistic stacking’ allowed the model to handle missing values, reducing the exclusion from around 80% to around 5% of the data. We found fronto-parietal networks during a working-memory task to drive childhood-cognition prediction. The brain-based, predictive models significantly, albeit partially, accounted for variance in childhood cognition due to (1) key socio-demographic and psychological factors (proportion mediated=18.65% [17.29%-20.12%]) and (2) genetic variation, as reflected by the polygenic score of cognition (proportion mediated=15.6% [11%-20.7%]). Thus, our brain-based predictive models for cognitive abilities facilitate the development of a robust, transdiagnostic research tool for cognition at the neural level in keeping with the RDoC’s integrative framework.

Key Points

Using opportunistic stacking and multimodal MRI, we developed brain-based predictive models for children’s cognitive abilities that were longitudinally stable, generalisable to different sites and robust against missing data.

Our brain-based models were able to partially mediate the relationships of childhood cognitive abilities with the socio-demographic, psychological and genetic factors.

Our approach should pave the way for future researchers to employ multimodal MRI as a tool for the brain-based indicator of cognitive abilities, according to the integrative RDoC framework.
Interaural Time Difference Tuning in the Rat Inferior Colliculus is Predictive of Behavioral Sensitivity
Authors: Li Kongyan , Rajendran Vani G. , Mishra Ambika Prasad , Chan Chloe H.K. , Schnupp Jan W. H.
Published: February 2021

Recent studies have shown that rats are a useful model for binaural cochlear implant (CI) research, with behavioral sensitivity to interaural time differences (ITDs) of CI stimuli which are better than those of human patients. Here, we characterize ITD tuning in the rat inferior colliculus (IC) and explore whether quality of tuning can predict behavioral performance. We recorded IC responses to stimuli of varying pulse rates and envelope types and quantified both mutual information (MI) and neurald′ as measures of ITD sensitivity. Neurald′ values paralleled behavioral ones, declining with increasing click rates or when envelopes changed from rectangular to Hanning windows. While MI values increased with experience, neurald′ did not. However, neurald′ values correlated much better with behavioral performance than MI. Thus, neurald′ appears to be a particularly well suited to predicting how stimulus parameters will impact behavioral performance.
Non-canonical role of Hippo tumor suppressor serine/threonine kinase 3 STK3 in prostate cancer
Authors: Schirmer Amelia U. , Driver Lucy M. , Zhao Megan T. , Wells Carrow I. , Pickett Julie E. , O’Bryne Sean N. , Eduful Benjamin J. , Yang Xuan , Howard Lauren , You Sungyong , Devi Gayathri R. , DiGiovanni John , Freedland Stephen F. , Chi Jen-Tsan , Drewry David H. , Macias Everardo
Published: February 2021

Serine/threoninekinase3(STK3) is an essential member of the highly conserved Hippo Tumor suppressor pathway which regulates Yes 1 Associated protein (YAP1) and TAZ. STK3 and its paralog STK4 initiate a phosphorylation cascade that regulate YAP1/TAZ activation and degradation, which is important for regulated cell growth and organ size. Deregulation of this pathway leads to hyper-activation of YAP1 in various cancers. Counter to the canonical tumor suppression role of STK3, we report that in the context of prostate cancer (PC), STK3 has a pro-tumorigenic role. Our investigation started with the observation that STK3, but not STK4, is frequently amplified in PC. A high STK3 expression is associated with decreased overall survival and positively correlates with androgen receptor (AR) activity in metastatic castrate resistant PC. XMU-MP-1, an STK3/4 inhibitor, slowed cell proliferation, spheroid growth and matrigel invasion in multiple models. Genetic depletion of STK3 decreased proliferation in several PC cell lines. In a syngeneic allograft model, STK3 loss slowed tumor growth kineticsin vivoand biochemical analysis suggest a mitotic growth arrest phenotype. To further probe the role of STK3 in PC, we identified and validated a new set of selective STK3 inhibitors, with enhanced kinase selectivity relative XMU-MP-1, that inhibited tumor spheroid growth and invasion. Consistent with the canonical role, inhibition of STK3 induced cardiomyocyte growth and had chemo-protective effects. Our results contend that STK3 has a non-canonical role in PC progression and inhibition of STK3 may have therapeutic potential for PC that merits further investigation.

Significance

Our findings illuminate a new actionable target for PC therapy that would traditionally be overlooked due to its canonical role as a tumor suppressor in other cancer types.
Oil volatility index and Chinese stock markets during financial crisis: a time-varying perspective
Authors: Tzeremes Panayiotis
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the interconnection among the oil volatility index (OVX) and the Chinese stock markets (CSM) during the financial crisis over the period June 1, 2007 to June 26, 2012.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying the time-varying Granger causality test, this paper conducts an exhaustive analysis of the OVX and the CSMs during the financial crisis. In particular, the financial crisis is classified in three stages, namely, the US subprime crisis, the global financial crisis and the sovereign debt crisis.

Findings

Briefly, the findings indicate almost a neutral relationship between the OVX and the CSMs during the entire financial crisis, the US subprime crisis and the global financial crisis. Finally, this paper has found a positive relationship between the OVX and the CSMs during the sovereign debt crisis.

Practical implications

This outcome clearly suggests that Chinese investors have to disregard uncertain information. In addition, policymakers can ameliorate the willingness of market investors in the CSM and further deepen the market-oriented reform of China’s domestic oil prices.

Originality/value

The innovative combination of these two strands, the OVX and the three stages of the financial crisis, is empirically examined in the study and this paper finds a non-linear linkage between the OVX and CSMs.
Customer perception of adoption and use of digital financial services and mobile money services in Uganda
Authors: Museba Tapiwanashe James , Ranganai Edmore , Gianfrate Gianfranco
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of fintech, mobile money and digital financial services in Uganda and factors impacting adoption of the services. The study will also determine their social impact through financial inclusion in the Ugandan market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study covers the adoption and use of fintech, mobile money and digital financial services in Uganda. A case study approach was used through a survey questionnaire for 400 randomly selected participants within the Kampala region. Questionnaire was designed to measure customer perception of digital financial services and adoption including mobile money and agency banking.

Findings

The adoption of mobile money services is driven by mobile devices penetration and the need for access to financial products and services for the unbanked. Results support CGAP (2013) that observed that mobile money adoption was based on two key variables: social network and social interactions of the customer and a segment of customers who can be described as mobile technology leaders (early adopters). There has been positive impact on person to person transfers, grocery payments and mobile money providers have to continue to simplify the access to financial services and bring convenience to the bottom of the pyramid. And mobile money positively impacts sustainable developmental goals covering Gender Equality (SDG5), SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth; expanding financial inclusion through mobile money and SDG 10 – Reduce Inequalities.

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations commonly prevalent with qualitative research, including the small size limited to Kampala and challenges of making generalisations beyond this context.

Practical implications

The paper might serve as a valuable source of information for government and fintech companies in developing the digital financial services ecosystem as well as for students and academics for further case studies in this area.

Originality/value

This paper serves as one of the first qualitative research papers concerning mobile money and digital financial services adoption, solely focused on Uganda. Its value is in its showcasing of the importance of mobile money among customers in emerging markets.
Factors affecting the performance of the traditional fisheries fishing effort in the regency of Kubu Raya, West Borneo
Authors: Sugiardi Sigit , Jamhari Jamhari , Hartono Slamet , Waluyati Lestari Rahayu
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explain the factors that affect the performance of traditional fishing business at Kubu Raya Regency of West Borneo Province.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used in this research is quantitative method. The research location in Kubu, Padang Tikar and Teluk Pakedai sub-districts of Kubu Raya Regency of West Borneo Province, considering the location is the target of CCDP-IFAD in Kubu Raya district. The data analysis model in this research is done by using structural equation model (SEM) approach with assisted WarpPLS program (partial least square development).

Findings

Based on the results of the analysis of SEM, it is revealed that the direct influence of the six dependent variables the environment of the individual fisherman, regulatory and government policy, environmental economics, a social-cultural environment, managerial capacity and the sustainability of the business aspects of ecological management affect directly toward traditional capture fisheries business performance, only empowerment that is not directly influential on performance of traditional capture fisheries business.

Originality/value

The originality in this study is shown in the objectives and variables used in the research, i.e. individual environmental variables of fishermen, government policies and regulations, economic environment, social-cultural environment, empowerment, management capacity and business sustainability influence the performance variable of traditional fishing business. In addition, there is a direct influence, allegedly there is an indirect influence on the variables empowerment of the performance of fishery business.
Various skin manifestations related to inflammatory bowel disease: A nationwide cross‐sectional study on the Korean population
Authors: Jo Ui Hyeon , Lee Jin Yong , Lee Hanjae , Kim Do‐yeop , Kang Sungchan , Koh Seong‐Joon , Park Hyunsun
Published: February 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) presents with various extraintestinal manifestations. As part of them, various skin diseases are suggested to be related to IBD. We aimed to identify the epidemiology and risk of developing skin manifestations in patients with IBD. We used Korean insurance claims data and selected patients with IBD and age/sex‐matched non‐IBD subjects between 2013 and 2017 using the diagnosis code and prescription records of IBD‐specific medications. The prevalence and risk of concurrent skin diseases were estimated. We identified 64 837 patients with IBD. Reactive skin eruptions including pyoderma gangrenosum and erythema nodosum were associated with IBD with highest odds ratios among three categories of reactive, inflammatory, and autoimmune skin diseases. Inflammatory skin diseases including rosacea, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and acne conglobata were significantly associated with IBD, but the association was less marked compared to reactive skin eruptions. The patients with IBD also had a higher risk of autoimmune skin diseases including vitiligo and alopecia areata than non‐IBD subjects. We determined that IBD was related to various skin diseases including reactive, inflammatory, and autoimmune skin diseases. Considering these relationships can allow better management of patients with IBD and comorbid skin diseases.
Effects of obesity and diabesity on heart rhythm in the Zucker rat
Authors: Sultan Ahmed , Jacobson Michael , Adeghate Ernest , Oulhaj Abderrahim , Shafiullah Mohamed , Qureshi Anwar , Howarth Frank Christopher
Published: February 2021

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are risk factors for hypertension, coronary heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias including atrial fibrillation, heart failure and sudden cardiac death. The effects of obesity and diabesity on heart rhythm were investigated in the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) and Zucker fatty (ZF) compared to the Zucker lean (ZL) control rat. In vivo biotelemetry techniques were used to assess the electrocardiogram and other cardiac and metabolic parameters. ZDF rats were characterized by age‐dependent elevations in fasting and non‐fasting blood glucose, glucose intolerance and weight gain and ZF rats were characterized by smaller elevations in fasting and non‐fasting blood glucose and greater weight gain compared to ZL rats. Heart rate (HR) was progressively reduced in ZDF, ZF and ZL rats. At 195 days (6.5 months) of age there were significant differences in HR between ZDF (265 ± 8 bpm, n = 10), ZF (336 ± 9 bpm, n = 10) and ZL (336 ± 10 bpm, n = 10) rats and significant differences in HRV between ZDF (22 ± 1 bpm, n = 10), ZF (27 ± 1 bpm, n = 10) and ZL (31 ± 1 bpm, n = 10) rats. Power spectral analysis revealed no significant (P > 0.05) differences in HRV at low frequencies, reduced HRV at high frequencies and increased sympathovagal balance in ZDF compared to ZF and ZL rats. HR was reduced by ageing and additionally reduced by diabesity in the absence of changes in physical activity and body temperature. Reductions in HRV associated with altered sympathovagal drive might partly underlie disturbed HR in the ZDF rat. Possible explanations for reduced HR and future mechanistic studies are discussed.
Mechanism of action of a diterpene alkaloid hypaconitine on cytotoxicity and inhibitory effect of BAPTA‐AM in HCN‐2 neuronal cells
Authors: Hsu Shu‐Shong , Lin Yung‐Shang , Liang Wei‐Zhe
Published: February 2021

Hypaconitine, a neuromuscular blocker, is a diterpene alkaloid found in the root of Aconitum carmichaelii. Although hypaconitine was shown to affect various physiological responses in neurological models, the effect of hypaconitine on cell viability and the mechanism of its action of Ca2+ handling is elusive in cortical neurons. This study examined whether hypaconitine altered viability and Ca2+ signalling in HCN‐2 neuronal cell lines. Cell viability was measured by the cell proliferation reagent (WST‐1). Cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations [Ca2+]i was measured by the Ca2+‐sensitive fluorescent dye fura‐2. In HCN‐2 cells, hypaconitine (10–50 μmol/L) induced cytotoxicity and [Ca2+]i rises in a concentration‐dependent manner. Removal of extracellular Ca2+ partially reduced the hypaconitine's effect on [Ca2+]i rises. Furthermore, chelation of cytosolic Ca2+ with BAPTA‐AM reduced hypaconitine's cytotoxicity. In Ca2+‐containing medium, hypaconitine‐induced Ca2+ entry was inhibited by modulators (2‐APB and SKF96365) of store‐operated Ca2+ channels and a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor (GF109203X). Hypaconitine induced Mn2+ influx indirectly suggesting that hypaconitine evoked Ca2+ entry. In Ca2+‐free medium, treatment with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor thapsigargin abolished hypaconitine‐induced [Ca2+]i rises. Conversely, treatment with hypaconitine inhibited thapsigargin‐induced [Ca2+]i rises. However, inhibition of phospholipase C (PLC) with U73122 did not inhibit hypaconitine‐induced [Ca2+]i rises. Together, hypaconitine caused cytotoxicity that was linked to preceding [Ca2+]i rises by Ca2+ influx via store‐operated Ca2+ entry involved PKC regulation and evoking PLC‐independent Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum. Because BAPTA‐AM loading only partially reversed hypaconitine‐induced cell death, it suggests that hypaconitine induced a second Ca2+‐independent cytotoxicity in HCN‐2 cells.
Geographical Diversity Among Directors and Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Firoozi Maryam , Keddie Leanne
Published: February 2021

Previous research documents the importance of board of directors’ characteristics in affecting corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance. We extend this literature by focusing on one attribute of the members of the board of directors, their place of residence and its impact on CSR performance (CSRP), which has not been previously investigated. This dimension is important since there is an increasing trend in nominating directors who live far from corporate headquarters. We rely on stakeholder theory and image motivation to explain this relationship. Using a sample of Canadian firms from 2009 to 2017, we find that geographical diversity among the board of directors has a positive impact on some dimensions of CSR. In addition, our results show that the improvement in CSRP is not value destructive. Our results extend the literature on demographic characteristics of directors and its impact on directors’ decision‐making about CSR.
Social capital as a partial explanation for gender wage gaps
Authors: Collischon Matthias , Eberl Andreas
Published: February 2021

Despite a long record of research on the sources of the gender wage gap, a large fraction of gender wage differences remains unexplained. In this paper, we propose gender differences in social capital as a novel explanation for the gender wage gap. We use British data from the Understanding Society (UKHLS) survey and wage decompositions to estimate the contribution of social capital derived from network homophily, that is, the similarity to one's peer group, to the gender wage differential. Our results show that differences in network structure explain as much as 15% of the overall gender wage gap. This finding is largely driven by gender differences in the number of males among closest friends, while other social capital measures used in this study hardly matter. We further show that differences in returns to social capital are not statistically significant.
Discriminating Coalho cheese by origin through near and middle infrared spectroscopy and analytical measures. Discrimination of Coalho cheese origin
Authors: Silva Larissa K R , Jesus Josane C , Onelli Rebeca R V , Conceição Daniele G , Santos Leandro S , Ferrão Sibelli P B
Published: February 2021

Discriminating traditional Coalho cheese by origin is important to ensure authenticity. The middle and near infrared spectroscopy and analytical measures associated with different chemometric approaches were used to characterise and discriminate Coalho cheese from different mesoregions of the State of Bahia, Brazil. Principal Component Analysis and Linear Discriminant Analysis were able to show the difference between cheeses. where better discrimination was observed using near infrared spectroscopy, which formed distinct groups by region and correct classification up to 90.00%. The infrared spectroscopy, especially the near infrared, showed to be very useful in the quick discrimination of cheeses according to their origin.
A double‐edged sword: Realities of artisanal and small‐scale mining for rural people in the Alaotra region of Madagascar
Authors: Stoudmann Natasha , Reibelt Lena M. , Rakotomalala Aimée G. , Randriamanjakahasina Olivier , Garcia Claude A. , Waeber Patrick O.
Published: February 2021

A growing number of people are entering the artisanal and small‐scale mining (ASM) sector worldwide. In Madagascar, millions of individuals depend on this informal activity. Through a case study in the Alaotra‐Mangoro region of Madagascar, our research aimed to understand the “bottom‐up” dynamics and ripple effects of the sector, by looking at the realities for rural communities where inhabitants are both directly and indirectly affected by ASM. We were interested in community members' and miners' perceptions of the socio‐economic and environmental impacts of ASM, and in identifying the factors attracting people living in one of the country's agricultural hubs to this activity. Our results show a wide diversity of push and pull factors leading people to enter the sector. Although many positive impacts of ASM exist for miners and communities within the vicinity of mines, most miner participants considered themselves worse off since starting to mine, highlighting the high risk and low probability of return of ASM. ASM's potential for local and national development will remain squandered if its negative impacts continue to go unmanaged. Accounting for local contexts and the ripple effects of ASM will be crucial in achieving safety and security for miners, and to tap into the benefits it may offer communities while minimising environmental damage.
Quantifying the Extent of Eroding Streambanks in Iowa
Authors: Wolter Calvin F. , Schilling Keith E. , Palmer Jason A.
Published: February 2021

Streambank erosion is a major source of sediment to rivers and it is important to find locations where severely eroding streambanks are occurring in watersheds. In this study, a new approach to mapping eroding streambanks at a regional scale was conducted using high‐resolution Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) elevation data. By calibrating field mapping studies to LiDAR derivative data, the extent of severely eroding streambanks in third‐ to sixth‐order streams and rivers found in Iowa was estimated. Study results suggest that over 35,200 km of streambanks may be severely eroding, or approximately 41% of all third‐ to sixth‐order streambanks. The extent of streambank erosion was not uniform across the state with more erosion occurring in hillier western and southern Iowa compared to flatter and more recently glaciated northern Iowa. Streambank erosion was related to greater bank heights and was more prevalent (as a percent of the total stream length) in larger fifth‐ and sixth‐order rivers. Overall, despite limitations in the study related to the collection and extrapolation of the LiDAR dataset, study results provide new evidence for the magnitude of the streambank erosion problem in Iowa and likely apply to similarly glaciated regions of the United States Midwest.
Pulsion diverticula of the rectum: Radiological diagnosis and clinical implications
Authors: Ghahremani Gary G , Mittal Ravinder K
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the appearance of acquired rectal diverticula on barium enema and computed tomography (CT) and to review the pertinent clinical data about this entity.

Methods

This series included 3 men and 6 women, who ranged in age from 47 to 82 years (average: 64 years). Air‐contrast barium enema in 6 patients with history of anorectal disease or obstructed defecation demonstrated rectal diverticula. In these cases, multiple radiographs of the rectosigmoid region were obtained in upright position while the patient was relaxing or straining without any attempt to evacuate the barium. In 3 cases, the lateral rectal diverticula were incidental finding on CT studies that were performed for various unrelated abdominal complaints.

Results

Pulsion type of diverticulum presenting as a wide‐neck outpouching was detected on the lateral rectal wall in 5 and on the posterior wall in 4 patients. They measured 2–3 cm in diameter when filled with contrast material or gas, and became even larger when the intraluminal pressure was increased by straining.

Conclusion

Pulsion diverticula of the rectum present as a wide‐neck outpouching of the lateral or posterior rectal wall in adult patients. This acquired abnormality is usually associated with coexisting anorectal lesions or defecation disorders. The practising radiologists and colorectal surgeons should be aware of this uncommon condition, its appearance on barium enema and other imaging studies, and its clinical implications.
The status of radiation protection in medicine in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: Ng Kwan Hoong , Brady Zoe , Ng Aik Hao , Soh Hwee Shin , Chou Yi Hong , Varma Dinesh
Published: February 2021

More than half of the world’s population live in Asia‐Pacific. This region is culturally diverse, with significant disparities in terms of socio‐economic status, provision of health care and access to advanced technology. The medical use of ionising radiation is increasing worldwide and similarly within the Asia‐Pacific region. In this paper, we highlight the current status in usage of ionising radiation in medicine in the region, and review the legal framework, implementation and activities in radiation protection. Asia‐Pacific countries are active in strengthening radiation protection by promoting education and training. Various projects and activities initiated by international organisations such as the IAEA, WHO and ICRP have provided stimulation in the region, but more work is needed to continue to improve protection practices.
Mutation of daf‐2 extends lifespan via tissue‐specific effectors that suppress distinct life‐limiting pathologies
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Zhang Bruce , Marcu Ioan , Athar Faria , Wang Hongyuan , Galimov Evgeniy R. , Chapman Hannah , Gems David
Published: February 2021

In aging Caenorhabditis elegans, as in higher organisms, there is more than one cause of death. C. elegans exhibit early death with a swollen, infected pharynx (P death), and later death with pharyngeal atrophy (p death). Interventions that alter lifespan can differentially affect frequency and timing of each type of death, generating complex survival curve shapes. Here, we use mortality deconvolution analysis to investigate how reduction of insulin/IGF‐1 signaling (IIS), which increases lifespan (the Age phenotype), affects different forms of death. All daf‐2 insulin/IGF‐1 receptor mutants exhibit increased lifespan in the p subpopulation (p Age), while pleiotropic class 2 daf‐2 mutants show an additional marked reduction in P death frequency. The latter is promoted by pharyngeal expression of the IIS‐regulated DAF‐16 FOXO transcription factor, and at higher temperature by reduced pharyngeal pumping rate. Pharyngeal DAF‐16 also promotes p Age in class 2 daf‐2 mutants, revealing a previously unknown role for the pharynx in the regulation of aging. Necropsy analysis of daf‐2 interactions with the daf‐12 steroid receptor implies that previously described opposing effects of daf‐12 on daf‐2 longevity are attributable to internal hatching of larvae, rather than complex interactions between insulin/IGF‐1 and steroid signaling. These findings support the view that wild‐type IIS acts through multiple distinct mechanisms which promote different life‐limiting pathologies, each of which contribute to late‐life mortality. This study further demonstrates the utility of mortality deconvolution analysis to better understand the genetics of lifespan.
Three is a crowd: Conspecific multi‐male spawning in the Spotted Toad Rhaebo guttatus (Schneider, 1799)
Authors: Oda Fabrício Hiroiuki , dos Anjos Samuel Ferreira , Lima Jonatha Edson de Paula , Ash Lauren V. , Campião Karla Magalhães , Rodrigues Domingos de Jesus
Published: February 2021

A case of multi‐male spawning between two males and one female of Rhaebo guttatus is reported. An amplectant pair of R. guttatus was observed spawning in an ephemeral puddle located in a flooded area of a stream inside an open ombrophilous forest remnant on 31st January 2019, in the municipality of Cotriguaçu, north‐western Mato Grosso state, Brazil. To our surprise, a conspecific male (secondary male) was submerged with its belly up, nostrils out of the water and clasping the female by the ventral region, apparently, trying to fertilise the eggs. For Neotropical anurans, multi‐male spawning has been reported to occur in eight phyllomedusid and four leptodactylid species. Therefore, it is the first record of conspecific multi‐male spawning for R. guttatus. These observations provide new insights into the breeding biology of R. guttatus. Further studies, however, are needed to better understand the reproductive features, focusing on genetic analyses of the offspring produced from multi‐male spawning of R. guttatus to determine whether multiple paternity occurs in this toad species.
The role of large traders in driving sustainable agricultural intensification in smallholder farms: Evidence from Kenya
Authors: Mulwa Chalmers K. , Muyanga Milu , Visser Martine
Published: February 2021

Pervasive threats of climate change and land degradation have compounded the inherent low farm productivity problem in sub‐Saharan Africa. Though sustainable agricultural intensification practices have been shown to improve the resilience of farm production in the face of these emerging threats, they suffer low adoption rates typical of any technology adoption in these regions. Recent evidence points to an emergence of large traders in smallholder grain markets of countries in sub‐Saharan Africa. Given their big financial and operational capacities, the hypothesis is that they can drive the elusive transformation in agri‐food systems by enhancing sustainable production and marketing for smallholder farmers. This study tests this hypothesis using a decade‐long large‐panel dataset from Kenya. A dynamic random effects Probit model and a control function approach are used to evaluate the dynamism in adopting sustainable agricultural inputs and the effect of large grain traders in enhancing the adoption of these inputs at the farm level. Results indicate that sales to large grain traders lead to higher adoption of inorganic fertilizer and improved seed, key agricultural intensification inputs. Land ownership is also shown to be a key success factor for entry into large‐grain‐trader markets. Lastly, the adoption of improved seed and organic manure is persistent across time, indicating state dependence in using these inputs. These results suggest that strategies to foster engagements between large grain traders and farmers can enhance the uptake of sustainable intensification inputs. Such strategies should be accompanied by efforts to improve access to these markets by resource‐poor farmers who are primarily smallholders.
Disulfiram‐copper activates chloride currents and induces apoptosis with tyrosine kinase in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Lei Wei , Xu Jingkui , Ya Yiyao , Zhang Jinxiang , Hou Xiuying , Zhai Qiliang , Zha Zeyu , Zhuo Yangjia , Zhou You , Yuan Hong , Liang Yuxiang , Han Zhaodong , Zhong Weide , Zhu Linyan , Chen Yehui
Published: February 2021

Aim: To elucidates the mechanism that disulfiram/copper complex (DSF/Cu) treatment activates chloride channels and induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells.

Methods: Cellular membrane currents were measured by membrane clamp technique; western blot to detect protein expression; flow cytometry to detect apoptosis; immunofluorescence to detect target protein co‐localization, and further validated by a combination of protein‐protein interaction and mock protein molecular docking techniques.

Results: DSF/Cu activated chloride channels and induced apoptosis in LNCaP (a type of androgen‐dependent prostate cancer cells) cells. The chloride currents activated by DSF/Cu were significantly reduced after knockdown of CLC3 with siRNA. In addition, DSF/Cu‐activated chloride currents were reduced to background current levels after perfusion with genistein, a highly specific tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Conversely, DSF/Cu failed to activate chloride currents in LNCaP cells after 30 minutes of pre‐incubation with genistein. When genistein was removed, and DSF/Cu was added, the activated currents were small and unstable, and gradually decreased. Immunofluorescence in LNCaP cells also showed co‐localization of the CLC3 protein with tyrosine kinase 2β (PTK2B).

Conclusion: DSF/Cu can activate chloride channels and induce apoptosis in LNCaP cells with the involvement of tyrosine kinase. These results provide new insights into the target therapy of prostate cancer.
Childhood asthma outcomes during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Findings from the PeARL multi‐national cohort
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Mathioudakis Alexander G. , Custovic Adnan , Deschildre Antoine , Phipatanakul Wanda , Wong Gary , Xepapadaki Paraskevi , Abou‐Taam Rola , Agache Ioana , Castro‐Rodriguez Jose A. , Chen Zhimin , Cros Pierrick , Dubus Jean‐Christophe , El‐Sayed Zeinab Awad , El‐Owaidy Rasha , Feleszko Wojciech , Fierro Vincenzo , Fiocchi Alessandro , Garcia‐Marcos Luis , Goh Anne , Hossny Elham M. , Huerta Villalobos Yunuen R. , Jartti Tuomas , Le Roux Pascal , Levina Julia , López García Aida Inés , Ramos Ángel Mazón , Morais‐Almeida Mário , Murray Clare , Nagaraju Karthik , Nagaraju Major K. , Navarrete Rodriguez Elsy Maureen , Namazova‐Baranova Leyla , Nieto Garcia Antonio , Pozo Beltrán Cesar Fireth , Ratchataswan Thanaporn , Rivero Yeverino Daniela , Rodríguez Zagal Eréndira , Schweitzer Cyril E. , Tulkki Marleena , Wasilczuk Katarzyna , Xu Dan ,   PeARL collaborators, on behalf of the PeARL Think Tank
Published: February 2021

Background

The interplay between COVID‐19 pandemic and asthma in children is still unclear. We evaluated the impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on childhood asthma outcomes.

Methods

The PeARL multinational cohort included 1,054 children with asthma and 505 non‐asthmatic children aged between 4 and 18 years from 25 pediatric departments, from 15 countries globally. We compared the frequency of acute respiratory and febrile presentations during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic between groups and with data available from the previous year. In children with asthma, we also compared current and historical disease control.

Results

During the pandemic, children with asthma experienced fewer upper respiratory tract infections, episodes of pyrexia, emergency visits, hospital admissions, asthma attacks, and hospitalizations due to asthma, in comparison with the preceding year. Sixty‐six percent of asthmatic children had improved asthma control while in 33% the improvement exceeded the minimal clinically important difference. Pre‐bronchodilatation FEV1 and peak expiratory flow rate were improved during the pandemic. When compared to non‐asthmatic controls, children with asthma were not at increased risk of LRTIs, episodes of pyrexia, emergency visits, or hospitalizations during the pandemic. However, an increased risk of URTIs emerged.

Conclusion

Childhood asthma outcomes, including control, were improved during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic, probably because of reduced exposure to asthma triggers and increased treatment adherence. The decreased frequency of acute episodes does not support the notion that childhood asthma may be a risk factor for COVID‐19. Furthermore, the potential for improving childhood asthma outcomes through environmental control becomes apparent.