bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is ‘co’ in coworking a short for contradictions?
Authors: Ivaldi Silvia , Sannino Annalisa , Scaratti Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Building on the existing literature and on a series of interviews conducted in very diverse coworking spaces, this article attempts at analyzing coworking by focusing on the historical evolution and heterogeneity of its interpretations, as well as the plurality of its realization in practice and prospective developments.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical framework adopted is Cultural Historical Activity Theory – a dialectical approach which allows the study of human activities as historically evolving and complex systems which change under the impulse of their inner contradictions. The analysis presented here starts with an overview of the history of the theoretical elaborations and discussions of coworking. The authors then focus on the experiences and interpretations of this phenomenon as conveyed by coworkers and coworking managers in the north of Italy – one of the most active coworking areas in Europe.

Findings

Coworking first emerged as a way of promoting forms of work and organization that require simultaneous, multidirectional, and reciprocal work, as understood in contrast to forms that incorporate an established division of labor, demarcated communities, and formal and informal sets of rules. However, with time, coworking has evolved toward novel directions, giving rise to heterogeneous interpretations of it. Inquiry constitutes a deeper investigation of the heterogeneity of coworking. The take-away message here is that the prefix co- in coworking can be interpreted, through a play of words, to evoke multiple positions and views conveying internal contradictions.

Originality/value

The historical overview of coworking shows a strong differentiation and multisided interpretation of this phenomenon along two dimensions of historical development, namely, social and business, and outward and inward. The qualitative analysis of the interviews traces the different lived interpretations and conceptions of coworking. The analysis confirms, on the one hand, the complexity and heterogeneity described in the literature, and on the other hand, it enriches the literature by depicting the contradictory nature of the phenomenon, including how the historical and inner tensions of coworking are dynamically evolving in the concrete experiences reported by the managers and users in the coworking spaces.
Evolution of fruit and seed traits during almond naturalization
Authors: Barea‐Márquez Andrés , Ocaña‐Calahorro Francisco J. , Balaguer‐Romano Rodrigo , Gómez José María , Schupp Eugene W. , Sánchez‐Pérez Raquel , Guillamón Jesús , Zhang Joanna , Rubio de Casas Rafael
Published: December 2021

Cultivated plant species often naturalize and enter wild communities in a process known as feralization. To successfully feralize, crops must overcome ecological barriers and may undergo selection on certain traits, diverging phenotypically and genetically from their crop ancestors. In spite of the agronomic and ecological relevance of crop feralization, the eco‐evolutionary dynamics driving it remain understudied.

In this paper, we evaluated phenotypic and genotypic differentiation in fruit and seed traits during the naturalization of the almond tree (Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb) in SE Iberia and evaluated the potential role of natural selection in this process. To do so, we investigated the patterns of genetic divergence between cultivated and feral populations using functional (the cyanogenesis Sk gene) and neutral (17 SSR loci) markers and analysed morphological and biochemical traits in kernels of 342 individuals from 15 cultivated and 24 feral populations.

We detected very little genetic differentiation in neutral markers between cultivated and feral populations. The majority of the observed genetic variation was due to differences within each type. Conversely, the recessive allele sk responsible for seed toxicity was significantly more frequent in feral populations. Phenotypic differentiation between cultivated and naturalized almond populations was also significant. Feral almond kernels were smaller and lighter, had denser and more resistant shells (endocarps) and more toxic seeds. Selection analyses indicated that these genetic and phenotypic patterns might be driven by directional selection on fruit and seed traits, potentially linked to defence against predation.

Synthesis. Our findings indicate that almond naturalization is consistent with strong directional selection on fruits and seeds, leading to smaller and more toxic seeds encased in harder endocarps. Accordingly, we propose that feralization of this crop is, at least to some degree, driven by adaptive evolution of dispersal and recruitment traits.
Precipitation and nitrogen deposition alter biocrust–vascular plant coexistence in a desert ecosystem: Threshold and mechanisms
Authors: She Weiwei , Chen Ning , Zhang Yuqing , Qin Shugao , Bai Yuxuan , Feng Wei , Lai Zongrui , Qiao Yangui , Liu Liang , Zhang Wenjin , Miao Chun
Published: December 2021

Dryland ecosystems exist in various vegetation landscapes with contrasting compositions of vascular plants and biocrusts (surface‐soil mats comprised of soil particles, cyanobacteria, lichens, mosses and fungi), and they are very vulnerable to ongoing global change. However, compared to vascular plants, the responses of biocrusts and their coexistence with vascular plants to global change remain elusive.

We conducted a 5‐year experiment involving multi‐level precipitation and nitrogen addition in a desert shrubland of northern China to examine these responses.

We found that shrubs, perennial herbs and annuals exhibited facilitative, competitive and insignificant effects on biocrusts respectively. Biocrusts coexisted with vascular plants below a threshold of herbaceous productivity of approximately 70 g/m2 and tended to be replaced by herbs beyond this threshold, resulting from the balance between the shade tolerance of biocrusts and herb‐induced light limitation. Increased precipitation and nitrogen enrichment altered biocrust–vascular plant composition by influencing this balance and tended to shift from a biocrust‐dominated to a vascular plant‐dominated state when the threshold was crossed.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that biocrusts can coexist with dwarf shrubs and annuals, but cannot withstand perennial herbs when the herbaceous productivity threshold was exceeded. Our findings provide new insights into the threshold and mechanisms of biocrust–vascular plant coexistence, which may greatly contribute to managing dryland ecosystems for global change.
The Microfoundations of Dynamic Capabilities for Incremental and Radical Innovation in Knowledge‐Intensive Businesses
Authors: Sheehan Maura , Garavan Thomas N. , Morley Michael J.
Published: December 2021

We theorize and test the impact of two microfoundations of dynamic capabilities on incremental and radical innovation in knowledge‐intensive businesses (KIBs). We argue that numerical flexibility and training, as human resources (HR) microfoundations that enable the configuration and deployment of resources, have different implications for incremental and radical innovation. Furthermore, we contend that those KIBs that make significant use of numerical flexibility will invest less in training, thus impacting innovation outcomes. We test our arguments using an original, longitudinal dyadic dataset assembled from 1750 structured interviews conducted with HR directors and senior managers in 875 KIBs located in Finland, France, Sweden and the UK. We find that numerical flexibility is negatively related to both incremental and radical innovation, whereas training is positively related to both. Our test of the moderating impact of training on both types of innovation resulting from the use of numerical flexibility was not statistically significant. Overall, we suggest that not all efforts by KIBs to mobilize resources and capabilities and align them with a complex external environment in the pursuit of innovation are necessarily beneficial. We highlight some research, policy, and practice implications that arise from our findings.
Emancipating ethics: an autonomist reading of Islamic forms of life in Russia
Authors: Benussi Matteo
Published: December 2021

This article advances a framework aimed at capturing the political life of ethical intensity by putting autonomist theory in resonance with ethnographic material pertaining to quietist Muslim milieus in post‐Soviet Russia. The emancipatory and prefigurative potential of collective projects of self‐legislation – in this case, ‘halal living’ – are explored through the notions of ethical form of life and Rule/Law. It will be argued that autonomist theory (a) is helpful in conceptualizing the friction between ethical projects (however quietist) and dominant moral/political orders; (b) has the potential to broaden anthropological conversations on virtue beyond existing fault lines (notably between what I call ‘traditionist’ and ‘liberal’ theoretical families) as well as conceptual silos (‘religion', ‘secularity’); and (c) can help us envision a radical, politically engaged anthropology of ethics.
Dietary cholesterol oxidation products: Perspectives linking food processing and storage with health implications
Authors: Liu Yan , Yang Xuan , Xiao Fan , Jie Fan , Zhang Qinjun , Liu Yuqi , Xiao Hang , Lu Baiyi
Published: December 2021

Dietary cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) are heterogeneous compounds formed during the processing and storage of cholesterol‐rich foods, such as seafood, meat, eggs, and dairy products. With the increased intake of COPs‐rich foods, the concern about health implications of dietary COPs is rising. Dietary COPs may exert deleterious effects on human health to induce several inflammatory diseases including atherosclerosis, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Thus, knowledge regarding the effects of processing and storage conditions leading to formation of COPs is needed to reduce the levels of COPs in foods. Efficient methodologies to determine COPs in foods are also essential. More importantly, the biological roles of dietary COPs in human health and effects of phytochemicals on dietary COPs‐induced diseases need to be established. This review summarizes the recent information on dietary COPs including their formation in foods during their processing and storage, analytical methods of determination of COPs, metabolic fate, implications for human health, and beneficial interventions by phytochemicals. The formation of COPs is largely dependent on the heating temperature, storage time, and food matrices. Alteration of food processing and storage conditions is one of the potent strategies to restrict hazardous dietary COPs from forming, including maintaining relatively low temperatures, shorter processing or storage time, and the appropriate addition of antioxidants. Once absorbed into the circulation, dietary COPs can contribute to the progression of several inflammatory diseases, where the absorbed dietary COPs may induce inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy in cells in the target organs or tissues. Improved intake of phytochemicals may be an effective strategy to reduce the hazardous effects of dietary COPs.
Shrinkage in frozen desserts
Authors: VanWees Samantha R. , Rankin Scott A. , Hartel Richard W.
Published: December 2021

Shrinkage is a well‐documented defect in frozen desserts, yet the root causes and mechanisms remain unknown. Characterized by the loss of volume during storage, shrinkage arose during the mid‐twentieth century as production of frozen desserts grew to accommodate a larger market. Early research found that shrinkage was promoted by high protein, solids, and overrun, as well as postproduction factors such as fluctuations in external temperature and pressure. Rather than approaching shrinkage as a cause‐and‐effect defect as previous approaches have, we employ a physicochemical approach to characterize and understand shrinkage as collapse of the frozen foam caused by destabilization of the dispersed air phase. The interfacial composition and physical properties, as well as the kinetic stability of air cells within the frozen matrix ultimately affect product susceptibility to shrinkage. The mechanism of shrinkage remains unknown, as frozen desserts are highly complex, but is rooted in the physicochemical properties of the frozen foam. Functional ingredients and processing methods that optimize the formation and stabilization of the frozen foam are essential to preventing shrinkage in frozen desserts.
Fatigue and apathy in patients on chronic hemodialysis
Authors: Bossola Maurizio , Di Stasio Enrico , Monteburini Tania , Santarelli Stefano , Cenerelli Stefano , Manes Massimo , Parodi Emanuele Luigi , Angioletti Laura , Balconi Michela
Published: December 2021

Introduction

This study explores the link between fatigue and apathy in patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

One hundred thirty‐nine chronic HD patients underwent the assessment of fatigue, apathy, depression, and their functional status, with the fatigue severity scale (FSS), the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES), the beck depression inventory (BDI), the activity of daily living (ADL), and instrumental activity of daily living (IADL).

Results

Patients with high FSS had a significantly lower ADL and IADL score, higher BDI, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and AES score, and lower serum levels of creatinine, compared to low FSS patients. FSS was highly correlated with the AES, as well as with the BDI and the AES correlates with the BDI. At multiple regression analyses, only apathy and IADL were independent predictor variables of fatigue in HD population.

Conclusion

Future longitudinal studies could determine if apathy is a causative factor for fatigue manifestation and development in HD patients.
Peritoneal dialysis for refractory heart failure: A single‐center experience
Authors: Aslan Kutsal Dilek , Yıldırımtürk Özlem , Sungur Aylin , Sungur Mustafa A. , Kayahan Münire , Güngör Barış
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) is a disease associated with poor quality of life. Peritoneal dialysis (PD) can be an alternative in the treatment of these patients to overcome fluid overload. The objective of this study is to observe the effects of PD in refractory HF patients.

Methods

We conducted an observational study including 10 patients with refractory congestive HF. PD started solely for fluid overload. Patients' baseline parameters were compared with follow‐up parameters.

Results

Median age was 57.5 (44.8–64.3) years. Median left ventricular ejection fraction was 20% (18.8–31.3), and all patients had right ventricular dysfunction. Median estimated glomerular filtration rate was 51.2 (43.8–101.3) ml/min/1.73 m2. Two patients (20%) died during the follow‐up period. New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class decreased significantly from a median of 4 to 2,1 and 1 in the 3rd, 6th, and 12th months, respectively (p ≤ 0.01 for all from baseline). Number and length of hospitalization decreased significantly after treatment (number from a median of 3 to 0,p = 0.013; days from 50.5 to 0,p = 0.028).

Conclusion

PD significantly reduced NYHA functional class, number and days of hospitalization for HF. It could be a reasonable option in chronic treatment of patients with refractory HF.
High reliability Human Resource Management (HRM): A system for high risk workplaces
Authors: Kellner Ashlea , Townsend Keith , Loudoun Rebecca , Wilkinson Adrian
Published: December 2021

High Performance Work Systems (HPWS) research is based on the search for the most suitable bundle of complementary practices appropriate for the organisation and its operating environment. We examine the contents of a HPWS in organisations seeking impeccable safety and reliability as their foremost ‘performance’ outcome. We propose a ‘High Reliability HRM’ framework, and examine the degree of implementation in a three case study of Australian state emergency services organisations. The findings highlight HRM practices inconsistent with the framework, and illustrated by rich interview accounts, we detail associated negative implications for employee behaviour and attitudes. We contribute to HPWS research by empirically examining how reliability‐seeking organisations conceptualise and implement HRM systems. This study emphasises how inconsistency in HRM practice bundles can pose a threat to reliable service provision, a critical finding for emergency services and reliability‐seeking organisations more broadly.
Protein extraction from cold‐pressed hempseed press cake: From laboratory to pilot scale
Authors: Helstad Amanda , Forsén Erica , Ahlström Cecilia , Mayer Labba Inger‐Cecilia , Sandberg Ann‐Sofie , Rayner Marilyn , Purhagen Jeanette K.
Published: December 2021

During the production of industrial hempseed oil, a press cake is formed as a byproduct, which is often used as animal feed although it contains a high amount of protein that could be used for human consumption. Extracting this valuable protein would reduce food waste and increase the availability of plant‐based protein. A protein extraction process based on the pH‐shift method was adapted to improve the protein extraction yield from industrial hempseed press cake (HPC). Parameters such as alkali extraction pH, time, and temperature, as well as isoelectric precipitation pH, were investigated in laboratory scale and were thereafter carried out in a pilot trial to explore the suitability for future scale up. The phytic acid content of the extracted protein isolate was also analyzed to investigate any potential inhibitory effect on mineral absorption. A final protein yield of 60.6%, with a precipitated protein content of 90.3% (dw), was obtained using a constant alkali extraction pH of 10.5 for 1 h at room temperature, followed by precipitation at pH 5.5. The pilot trial showed promising results for the future production of industrial hemp protein precipitate on a larger scale, showing a protein yield of 57.0% and protein content of 90.8% (dw). The amount of phytic acid in the protein isolate produced in the optimal laboratory experiment and in the pilot trial was 0.595 and 0.557 g phytic acid/100 g dw, respectively, which is 83%–88% less than in the HPC. This is in the range of other plant‐based protein sources (tofu, kidney beans, peas, etc.).

Practical Application

Industrial hempseed press cake is a byproduct in the production of industrial hempseed oil, which is mostly used as animal feed, but has the potential to become an additional source of plant‐based protein for human consumption with a suitable protein extraction method. The extracted hemp protein could be used to develop new plant‐based dairy or meat analog products.
Dynamic variation of the phytochemical and volatile compounds in the pericarp ofCitrus reticulata‘‘Chachi’’ (Rutaceae) during 2 years of storage
Authors: Chao Yingxin , Tan E‐yu , Ma Shaofeng , Chen Baizhong , Liu Mengshi , Wang Kanghui , Yang Wanling , Wei Minyan , Zheng Guodong
Published: December 2021

The pericarp ofCitrus reticulata"Chachi" (CRCP) is used as nutritional food and traditional medicine in China, usually harvested at three periods, namely, immature (CRCP‐G1), semi‐mature (CRCP‐G2), and fully mature (CRCP‐G3). Traditionally, if the CRCP is stored for a longer period, then the quality will be better. In this study, the dynamic variation of phytochemical and volatile compounds was profiled in the same batches of CRCP during 2 years of storage. Results illustrated that most of the phytochemical compounds showed a decreasing trend during storage, that is, total flavonoids, total phenolic acids, hesperidin, 3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′‐heptamethoxyflavone, 5‐hydroxy‐6,7,8,3′,4′‐pentamethoxyflavone, synephrine, and limonin. The ferulic acid increased significantly, whereas no significant changes were observed in the total polymethoxyflavones, nobiletin, and tangeretin after 2 years of storage. In addition, we found that the extraction yield of volatile oil decreased significantly in CRCP‐G1 during storage, and the herb odors were enhanced with the increase of phenols and esters. No significant difference in the extraction yield of volatile oil of CRCP‐G2 and CRCP‐G3 was found after 2 years of storage, but the citrus‐like notes were increased with the promoted generation of alkenes. In particular, the multivariate statistical analysis indicated that 7 volatiles showed a higher level after 1 year of storage, whereas 11 volatiles decreased and 4 volatiles increased after 2 years of storage, respectively. This study could show the early aging mechanism of CRCP harvested at different periods and provide a scientific guidance in the storage of CRCP.

Practical Application

This study indicated a comprehensive method for rapid analysis of phytochemical and volatile compounds in pericarp ofCitrus reticulata‘‘Chachi’’ (Rutaceae) (CRCP) harvested at different periods during 2 years of storage. The results obtained from this study would be valuable for revealing the early aging mechanism and sustainable storage of CRCP.
miR‐223‐3p targets FBXW7 to promote epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and metastasis in breast cancer
Authors: Wang Yuli , Shi Shuang , Wang Yunshan , Zhang Xuhua , Liu Xiaoyan , Li Juan , Li Peilong , Du Lutao , Wang Chuanxin
Published: December 2021

Background

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor diagnosed in women. It is the second leading cause of cancer‐related death among women in the world. Aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been identified to be involved in the development and progression of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the function of miR‐223‐3p in breast cancer progression and metastasis.

Methods

qRT‐PCR was used to analyze the expression levels of miR‐223‐3p in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. Wound healing and Matrigel assays were used to examine cell motility and invasiveness. FBXW7 3′‐UTR construct and luciferase reporter assays were performed for the target gene.

Results

miR‐223‐3p was overexpressed in breast cancer tissue and cell lines. A high level of miR‐223‐3p was associated with poor prognosis in breast cancer patients. In addition, overexpressed miR‐223‐3p promoted the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that tumor suppressor gene FBXW7 is a target of miR‐223‐3p. Luciferase activity reporter assay indicated miR‐223‐3p could directly bind with the 3′‐UTR of FBXW7. miR‐223‐3p exhibited its oncogenic role partly by decreasing FBXW7 expression, and consequently promoted the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a physical and functional relationship among miR‐223‐3p and FBXW7. By negatively regulating FBXW7 expression, miR‐223‐3p exerts a tumor promotion role promoting cell invasion and metastasis in breast cancer.
Association of the programmed death ligand‐1 combined positive score in tumors and clinicopathological features in esophageal cancer
Authors: Huang Ziling , Jin Yan , Cai Xu , Chen Lijun , Shen Xuxia , Li Bin , Chen Haiquan , Li Yuan
Published: December 2021

Background

The combined positive score (CPS) of the programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) 22C3 assay is a predictive marker of pembrolizumab monotherapy for advanced esophageal cancer (EC) patients. However, little is known about the association of the PD‐L1 22C3 CPS with the clinicopathological features and heterogeneity of PD‐L1 expression in EC in the Chinese population in a real‐world setting.

Methods

We examined the association of the PD‐L1 22C3 CPS with clinicopathological characteristics in 533 EC specimens. Further, we compared 37 cases' different blocks of the same specimen and 50 paired primary/metastatic lymph node lesions to investigate the heterogeneity of PD‐L1 expression.

Results

PD‐L1 positive expression was observed in 45.0% of 533 EC patients, including 46.8% with squamous cell carcinoma, 15.4% with adenocarcinoma, 28.6% with basaloid squamous carcinoma, 42.9% with spindle cell carcinoma, and 33.3% with neuroendocrine tumors. PD‐L1 positive expression was positively associated with lymph node metastasis (59.2% chance, p = 0.021) and venous/lymphatic invasion (66.3% chance, p = 0.029). PD‐L1 expression was highly consistent in different paraffin blocks of the same surgically resected specimen (concordance rate: 86.5%, p = 0.000016) and a moderate consistency (concordance rate: 78.0%, p = 0.000373) for the primary and metastatic lymph node lesion comparison.

Conclusions

This is a novel study which demonstrated a positive correlation between a high PD‐L1 22C3 CPS and invasion/metastasis risk in EC surgical specimens. Both paired blocks and paired primary/metastatic lymph node lesions showed significant concordance. PD‐L1 heterogeneity was inferred to be mainly related to positive mononuclear inflammatory cells (MICs), which might have substantial implications for clinical practice.
Use of PD‐1 inhibitor tislelizumab in the treatment of advanced pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Xu Li , Tao Ning‐ning , Liang Bin , Li Dao‐wei , Li Huai‐chen , Su Li‐li
Published: December 2021

Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC), characterized by poor differentiation, aggressive progression, and early metastasis, is a rare type of non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), which shows a low response rate to conventional antitumor therapies and has a poor prognosis. With the achievements in gene sequencing, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, several new approaches have recently been explored in PSC treatment. A small case series of PSC patients were found to have programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) overexpression, a prerequisite for PD‐1 inhibiting therapy, which made immunotherapy possible. However, anti‐PD‐1 treatment for PSCs was still at a preliminary stage. Here, we report the successful outcome of tislelizumab monotherapy in a patient with advanced PSC with pleural invasion, thus providing a novel promising approach for PSC patients with PD‐L1 overexpression.
Bridging the scale gap: Predicting large‐scale population dynamics from small‐scale variation in strongly heterogeneous landscapes
Authors: Cobbold Christina A. , Lutscher Frithjof , Yurk Brian
Published: December 2021

Often, ecologists are challenged with a mismatch of scales: how do we upscale from local variation and available data to landscape‐level models and predictions?

We present a general recipe for coarse‐graining from local‐ to landscape‐scale reaction–diffusion equations when spatial heterogeneity is small in extent compared to dispersal of organisms. Our homogenization approach uses the fundamental ecological concepts of Turchin's residence index and Skellam's dynamic level.

Our approach opens avenues to new ecological theory that connects different scales, which we illustrate using predator–prey interactions. It also presents opportunities for using the increasingly available small‐scale data for landscape‐level predictions, such as range expansion rates.

We find several unexpected nonlinear relationships between the movement behaviour on the local level and the spatially implicit and explicit outcomes at the landscape level, for example, predator spread rate may increase or decrease when predators move faster locally. Our method provides a mechanistic link for population dynamics and data integration across spatial and temporal scales, addressing a fundamental goal of landscape ecology.
Increased MFG‐E8 at neuromuscular junctions is an exacerbating factor for sarcopenia‐associated denervation
Authors: Ikemoto‐Uezumi Madoka , Zhou Heying , Kurosawa Tamaki , Yoshimoto Yuki , Toyoda Masashi , Kanazawa Nobuo , Nakazawa Tatsu , Morita Mitsuhiro , Tsuchida Kunihiro , Uezumi Akiyoshi
Published: December 2021

Sarcopenia is an important health problem associated with adverse outcomes. Although the etiology of sarcopenia remains poorly understood, factors apart from muscle fibers, including humoral factors, might be involved. Here, we used cytokine antibody arrays to identify humoral factors involved in sarcopenia and found a significant increase in levels of milk fat globule epidermal growth factor 8 (MFG‐E8) in skeletal muscle of aged mice, compared with young mice. We found that the increase in MFG‐E8 protein at arterial walls and neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in muscles of aged mice. High levels of MFG‐E8 at NMJs and an age‐related increase in arterial MFG‐E8 have also been identified in human skeletal muscle. In NMJs, MFG‐E8 is localized on the surface of terminal Schwann cells, which are important accessory cells for the maintenance of NMJs. We found that increased MFG‐E8 at NMJs precedes age‐related denervation and is more prominent in sarcopenia‐susceptible fast‐twitch than in sarcopenia‐resistant slow‐twitch muscle. Comparison between fast and slow muscles further revealed that arterial MFG‐E8 can be uncoupled from sarcopenic phenotype. A genetic deficiency in MFG‐E8 attenuated age‐related denervation of NMJs and muscle weakness, providing evidence of a pathogenic role of increased MFG‐E8. Thus, our study revealed a mechanism by which increased MFG‐E8 at NMJs leads to age‐related NMJ degeneration and suggests that targeting MFG‐E8 could be a promising therapeutic approach to prevent sarcopenia.
Chemically induced senescence in human stem cell‐derived neurons promotes phenotypic presentation of neurodegeneration
Authors: Fathi Ali , Mathivanan Sakthikumar , Kong Linghai , Petersen Andrew J. , Harder Cole R. K. , Block Jasper , Miller Julia Marie , Bhattacharyya Anita , Wang Daifeng , Zhang Su‐Chun
Published: December 2021

Modeling age‐related neurodegenerative disorders with human stem cells are difficult due to the embryonic nature of stem cell‐derived neurons. We developed a chemical cocktail to induce senescence of iPSC‐derived neurons to address this challenge. We first screened small molecules that induce embryonic fibroblasts to exhibit features characteristic of aged fibroblasts. We then optimized a cocktail of small molecules that induced senescence in fibroblasts and cortical neurons without causing DNA damage. The utility of the “senescence cocktail” was validated in motor neurons derived from ALS patient iPSCs which exhibited protein aggregation and axonal degeneration substantially earlier than those without cocktail treatment. Our “senescence cocktail” will likely enhance the manifestation of disease‐related phenotypes in neurons derived from iPSCs, enabling the generation of reliable drug discovery platforms.
Intracavitary electrocardiography for femorally inserted central catheter tip location in adult patients
Authors: Duan YingFang , Hu XiaoYan , Zhu YuXin , Zhao Xi , Yin XinXin , Zhang HaiMan , Wang Yu
Published: December 2021

Background

In this study, the intracavitary electrocardiogram (ECG) P‐wave and QRS‐wave changes during femorally inserted central catheter (FICC) placement in adults were observed with the aim of reducing malposition occurrence. The observed method provides venous access in patients who have limited upper limb venous catheterization potential and require medium‐term and long‐term infusions.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 34 adult patients who underwent FICC placement was conducted. After body surface measurements were taken, all patients were connected to an ECG during catheter placement, and the P‐wave and QRS‐wave changes were observed. Next, the catheter tip position was confirmed with an abdominal X‐ray, and an analysis of the changes occurring during the procedure was conducted.

Results

In the 34 patients included in the present study, the catheter tips were located below the diaphragm level in the inferior vena cava. Of the patients, 18 showed negative P waves, biphasic P waves, and positive high‐amplitude P waves with increasing the insertion depth. In 16 patients, no P‐wave characteristic changes were observed during catheterization, and an abdominal X‐ray confirmed that the catheter tip was positioned below the level of the first lumbar vertebra.

Conclusion

Negative P waves, biphasic P waves, and positive high‐amplitude P waves appeared during FICC placement in adults. Catheter withdrawal until the P wave reverted to normal indicated that a tip position close to the inferior vena cava above the diaphragm level was ideal.
Post‐fire succession of seeding treatments in relation to reference communities in the Great Basin
Authors: Ott Jeffrey E. , Kilkenny Francis F. , Summers Daniel D. , Thompson Tyler W. , Petersen Steven L.
Published: December 2021

Questions

Post‐fire seeding has been widely implemented in the semiarid Great Basin because natural vegetation recovery may be compromised. Non‐native species are often seeded to rapidly establish perennial cover and compete with invasive annuals. We asked whether seeding treatments with different amounts of native and non‐native species followed different successional trajectories and whether they became more similar to reference communities over time. We considered restoration implications of seed mix choices and reference community options involving: (a) local unburned vegetation; and (b) reference states mapped by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) based on soil–vegetation associations.

Location

Tintic Valley, UT, USA.

Methods

Four post‐fire seeding treatments differing by seed mix were installed alongside an unseeded control (USC) at two sites. Two seed mixes were comprised of native species and two were predominantly non‐native. Vegetation was monitored 1–3 and 16–18 years after fire and seeding. Reference communities were characterized and compared using hierarchical clustering. Non‐metric multidimensional scaling and permutation tests were used to determine successional trajectories of post‐fire treatments in relation to reference communities.

Results

Local unburned reference communities had fewer herbaceous perennials and higher woody cover than NRCS reference communities, suggesting departure from conditions expected under minimal post‐settlement disturbance. USCs became more similar to reference communities over time, though less so at a site with abundant invasive annuals. Trajectories of seeded treatments were driven by seed mix species, with native‐only mixes approaching reference communities more closely than mixes with non‐natives.

Conclusions

Gradual recovery of reference community composition is possible without seeding but the degree and rate of recovery can vary by site. Seeding can accelerate perennial vegetation recovery but may result in alternative successional trajectories, especially if non‐native species are seeded. Carefully selected reference communities can serve as guides for formulating seed mixes when restoration of natural vegetation is desired.
Evaluating sediment recycling through combining inherited petrogenic and acquired sedimentary features of multiple detrital minerals
Authors: Zoleikhaei Yousef , Mulder Jacob A. , Cawood Peter A.
Published: December 2021

An implicit assumption of most sedimentary provenance analyses is a direct link between source and sink. However, recycling of sedimentary detritus from pre‐existing strata interrupts the direct source‐to‐sink link and can result in incorrect interpretations of paleogeography and paleodrainage. Detrital zircon is the favoured proxy of contemporary provenance studies, but its physiochemical resilience makes it particularly prone to recycling. In this study, we integrate geochemical (age, isotope, and trace elements) and grain roundness data of multiple detrital minerals with different physiochemical stabilities (zircon, tourmaline, rutile, and apatite) to evaluate the importance of recycling in an ancient sedimentary basin. We focus on the early Cambrian Lalun Formation of Iran, which forms part of a laterally extensive sandstone‐rich succession deposited along the northern margin of Gondwana. The Lalun Formation preserves a distinct change of compositional maturity between lower arkose and shale units and an upper unit of quartz‐rich sandstone. Detrital zircon, rutile, and apatite data demonstrate that all units of the Lalun Formation share a common source in the Arabian‐Nubian Shield. Whole‐rock geochemical data further indicate that all units have similar chemical alteration indices, suggesting the change in compositional maturity is not a product of differential weathering of the source region. Analysis of grain roundness reveals that detrital zircon, rutile, and tourmaline in the upper quartz‐rich unit are typically more rounded than those in the underlying arkose and shale units. In contrast, detrital apatite grains are nearly all angular in the quartz‐rich unit but mostly rounded in the lower arkose and shale. Together, the detrital mineral provenance, whole‐rock geochemistry, and morphological data are consistent with recycling of the lower arkose and shale units of the Lalun Formation into the uppermost quartz‐rich unit, with the latter also receiving a component of first‐cycle detritus represented by angular detrital apatite. Our findings demonstrate that integrating the features of detrital minerals acquired during a sedimentary cycle (grain rounding and diversity of mineral assemblages) with features inherited from their ultimate source rocks (age, isotopic, and geochemical proxies) can assist in recognising sediment recycling in ancient strata.
Attenuated alpha–gamma coupling in emotional dual pathways with right‐Amygdala predicting ineffective antidepressant response
Authors: Dai Zhongpeng , Pei Cong , Zhang Siqi , Tian Shui , Chen Zhilu , Zhou Hongliang , Lu Qing , Yao Zhijian
Published: December 2021

Aims

The diversity of treatment outcomes for major depressive disorder (MDD) remains uncertain in neuropathology. The current study aimed at exploring electrophysiological biomarkers associated with treatment response.

Methods

The present study recruited 130 subjects including 100 MDD patients and 30 healthy controls. All subjects participated in a sad expression recognition task while their magnetoencephalography data were recorded. Patients who had a reduction of at least 50% in disorder severity at endpoint (>2 weeks) were considered as responders. Within‐frequency power and phase‐amplitude coupling were measured for the brain regions involved in the emotional visual information processing pathways.

Results

The significant alpha–gamma decoupling from the right thalamus to the right amygdala in unconscious processing and from right orbital frontal cortices to the right amygdala in conscious processing was found in non‐responders relative to responders and healthy controls. These kinds of dysregulation could also predict the potential treatment response.

Conclusion

The attenuated alpha–gamma coupling in dual pathways indicated increased sensitivity to the negative emotional information and reduced moderated effect of the amygdala, which might cause insensitivity to antidepressant treatment and could be regarded as potential neural mechanisms for treatment response prediction.
Assessment of hand hygiene strategies on skin barrier function during COVID‐19 pandemic: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Montero‐Vilchez Trinidad , Martinez‐Lopez Antonio , Cuenca‐Barrales Carlos , Quiñones‐Vico Maria I. , Sierra‐Sanchez Alvaro , Molina‐Leyva Alejandro , Gonçalo Margarida , Cambil‐Martin Jacobo , Arias‐Santiago Salvador
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has increased the frequency of handwashing. There is scarce evidence regarding the impact of different hand hygiene procedures on skin barrier function in clinical practice.

Objective

To compare the impact on skin barrier function of different hand hygiene measures in healthcare workers in daily practice.

Methods

A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted. Participants were randomized to sanitize their hands with water and soap, alcohol‐based hand sanitizers (ABHSs), or disinfectant wipes during their 8‐hour working shift. Epidermal barrier functional parameters, such as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and the microbial load were assessed before and immediately after the working day. Tolerance and acceptability of each product were recorded after work.

Results

Sixty‐two participants were included and 20, 21, and 21 were randomized to use water and soap, ABHS, and disinfectant wipes, respectively. After the 8‐hour shift, TEWL increase was higher with disinfectant wipes than with soaps or ABHS (+5.45 vs +3.87 vs −1.46 g h−1 m−2, respectively; P = .023). Bacteria and fungi colony‐forming unit (CFU) count reductions were lower for the water and soap group than for ABHS and disinfectant wipes. Disinfectant wipes were considered more difficult to use (P = .013) compared with water and soap and ABHS.

Conclusion

Daily hand hygiene with ABHS showed the lowest rates of skin barrier disruption and the highest reduction of CFU.
Substrate stiffness regulates the differentiation profile and functions of osteoclasts via cytoskeletal arrangement
Authors: Wang Qingxuan , Xie Jing , Zhou Chenchen , Lai Wenli
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Aging and common diseases alter the stiffness of bone tissue, causing changes to the microenvironment of the mechanosensitive bone cells. Osteoclasts, the sole bone‐resorbing cells, play a vital role in bone remodeling. This study was performed to elucidate the mechanism through which osteoclasts sense and react to substrate stiffness signals.

Materials and methods

We fabricated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates of different stiffness degrees for osteoclast formation progressed from osteoclast precursors including bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMMs) and RAW264.7 monocytes. Osteoclast differentiation in response to the stiffness signals was determined by examining the cell morphology, fusion/fission activities, transcriptional profile, and resorption function. Cytoskeletal changes and mechanosensitive adhesion molecules were also assessed.

Results

Stiffer PDMS substrates accelerated osteoclast differentiation, firstly observed by variations in their morphology and fusion/fission activities. Upregulation of canonical osteoclast markers (Nfatc1, Acp5, Ctsk, Camk2a, Mmp9, Rela, and Traf6) and the fusion master regulator DC‐stamp were detected on stiffer substrates, with similar increases in their bone resorption functions. Additionally, the activation of cytoskeleton‐associated adhesion molecules, including fibronectin and integrin αvβ3, followed by biochemical signaling cascades of paxillin, FAK, PKC, and RhoA, was detected on the stiffer substrates.

Conclusions

This is the first study to provide evidence proving that extracellular substrate stiffness is a strong determinant of osteoclast differentiation and functions. Higher stiffness upregulated the differentiation profile and activity of osteoclasts, revealing the mechanical regulation of osteoclast activity in bone homeostasis and diseases.
LncRNA‐AK137033 inhibits the osteogenic potential of adipose‐derived stem cells in diabetic osteoporosis by regulating Wnt signaling pathway via DNA methylation
Authors: Peng Shuanglin , Gao Yujin , Shi Sirong , Zhao Dan , Cao Huayue , Fu Ting , Cai Xiaoxiao , Xiao Jingang
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Bone tissue engineering based on adipose‐derived stem cells (ASCs) is expected to become a new treatment for diabetic osteoporosis (DOP) patients with bone defects. However, compared with control ASCs (CON‐ASCs), osteogenic potential of DOP‐ASCs is decreased, which increased the difficulty of bone reconstruction in DOP patients. Moreover, the cause of the poor osteogenesis of ASCs in a hyperglycemic microenvironment has not been elucidated. Therefore, this study explored the molecular mechanism of the decline in the osteogenic potential of DOP‐ASCs from the perspective of epigenetics to provide a possible therapeutic target for bone repair in DOP patients with bone defects.

Materials and methods

An animal model of DOP was established in mice. CON‐ASCs and DOP‐ASCs were isolated from CON and DOP mice, respectively. AK137033 small interfering RNA (SiRNA) and an AK137033 overexpression plasmid were used to regulate the expression of AK137033 in CON‐ASCs and DOP‐ASCs in vitro. Lentiviruses that carried shRNA‐AK137033 or AK137033 cDNA were used to knockdown or overexpress AK137033, respectively, in CON‐ASCs and DOP‐ASCs in vivo. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson's, alizarin red, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, micro‐computed tomography (Micro‐CT), flow cytometry, qPCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence, and bisulfite‐specific PCR (BSP) were used to analyze the functional changes of ASCs.

Results

The DOP mouse model was established successfully. Compared with CON‐ASCs, AK137033 expression, the DNA methylation level of the sFrp2 promoter region, Wnt signaling pathway markers, and the osteogenic differentiation potential were decreased in DOP‐ASCs. In vitro experiments showed that AK137033 silencing inhibited the Wnt signaling pathway and osteogenic ability of CON‐ASCs by reducing the DNA methylation level in the sFrp2 promoter region. Additionally, overexpression of AK137033 in DOP‐ASCs rescued these changes caused by DOP. Moreover, the same results were obtained in vivo.

Conclusions

LncRNA‐AK137033 inhibits the osteogenic potential of DOP‐ASCs by regulating the Wnt signaling pathway via modulating the DNA methylation level in the sFrp2 promoter region. This study provides an important reference to find new targets for the treatment of bone defects in DOP patients.
Emergency conservation interventions during times of crisis: A case study for a threatened bird species in the Australian Black Summer bushfires
Authors: Selwood Katherine E. , Antos Mark , Bramwell Mick , Lee Adam , Lynch Michael , Magrath Michael J. L. , Maute Kimberly , Melvin Fiona , Mott Rowan , Perri Marc , Whiteford Craig , Clarke Rohan H.
Published: December 2021

Emergency conservation interventions will be increasingly necessary to prevent extinctions or severe population bottlenecks as extreme events become more frequent. We detail the emergency extraction of the endangered Eastern Bristlebird (Dasyornis brachpterus) during the unprecedented 2019–2020 Australian Black Summer bushfires, an intervention that led to the rapid establishment of a temporary ex situ insurance population sourced from an area under immediate threat from bushfire (Croajingolong National Park, Victoria). The intervention was triggered, coordinated, and implemented within a 4‐week period, with re‐release to the wild within 2 months. We present this case study within a framework for emergency conservation interventions, based on the emergency management phases of preparation, response, and recovery, with the addition of an evaluation phase. The preparation phase involved compiling existing knowledge and capacity to facilitate the operation. The response phase consisted of (a) initiation and planning of the intervention (coordination) and (b) implementation, that is, the translocation of 15 birds from an area under threat of bushfire to a captive institution (>500 km). The recovery phase saw the insurance population re‐released to unburnt habitat after the bushfire had ceased. The evaluation phase incorporated lessons learnt from the other three phases as part of an adaptive management approach. We reflect on the Eastern Bristlebird emergency conservation intervention to explore how we can better prepare for, respond to, and recover from the large range of emergencies faced by biodiversity around the world.