bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slc35a2 mosaic knockout impacts cortical development, dendritic arborisation, and neuronal firing in the developing brain
Authors: Spyrou James , Aung Khaing Phyu , Vanyai Hannah , Leventer Richard J , Maljevic Snezana , Lockhart Paul J , Howell Katherine B , Reid Christopher A
Published: February 2024

Objective: Mild malformation of cortical development with oligodendroglial hyperplasia in epilepsy (MOGHE) is an important cause of drug-resistant epilepsy. A significant subset of individuals diagnosed with MOGHE display somatic mosaicism for loss-of-function variants in SLC35A2, which encodes the UDP-galactose transporter. We developed a mouse model to investigate the mechanism by which disruption of this transporter leads to a malformation of cortical development. Methods: We used in utero electroporation and CRISPR/Cas9 to knockout Slc35a2 in a subset of layer 2/3 cortical neuronal progenitors in the developing brains of fetal mice to model mosaic expression. Results: Histology of brain tissue in the mosaic Slc35a2 knockout mice revealed the presence of upper layer-derived cortical neurons in the white matter. In contrast, oligodendrocyte patterning was unchanged. Reconstruction of single filled neurons identified altered dendritic arborisation with Slc35a2 knockout neurons having increased complexity. Whole-cell electrophysiological recordings revealed that Slc35a2 knockout neurons display reduced action potential firing and increased afterhyperpolarisation duration compared with control neurons. Mosaic Slc35a2 knockout mice also exhibited significantly increased epileptiform spiking and increased locomotion. Interpretation: We successfully generated a mouse model of mosaic Slc35a2 deficiency, which recapitulates features of the human phenotype, including impaired neuronal migration. We show that knockout in layer 2/3 cortical neuron progenitors is sufficient to disrupt neuronal excitability and increase epileptiform activity and hyperactivity in mosaic mice. Our mouse model provides a unique opportunity to investigate the disease mechanism(s) that underpin MOGHE and facilitate the development of precision therapies.
Long Read Sequencing reveals transgene concatemerization and backbone integration following AAV-driven electroporation of CRISPR RNP complexes in mouse zygotes
Authors: Luqman Muhammad Waqas , Jenjaroenpun Piroon , Spathos Jessica , Shingte Nikhil , Cummins Mitchell , Nimsamer Pattaraporn , Ittner Lars M , Wongsurawat Thidathip , Delerue Fabien
Published: February 2024

Over the last decade CRISPR gene editing has been successfully used to streamline the generation of animal models for biomedical purposes. However, one limitation to its use is the potential occurrence of on-target mutations that may be detrimental or otherwise unintended. These bystander mutations are often undetected using conventional genotyping methods. The use of Adeno-Associated Viruses (AAVs) to bring donor templates in zygotes is currently being deployed by transgenic cores around the world to generate knock-ins with large transgenes. Thanks to a high level of efficiency and the relative ease to establish this technique, it recently became a method of choice for transgenic laboratories. However, a thorough analysis of the editing outcomes following this method is yet to be developed. To this end, we generated three different types of integration using AAVs in two different murine genes (i.e., Ace2 and Foxg1) and employed Oxford Nanopore Technologies long read sequencing to analyze the outcomes. Using a workflow that includes Cas9 enrichment and adaptive sampling, we showed that unintended on-target mutations (sometimes reported using other workflows) can occur when using AAVs. This work highlights the importance of in-depth validation of the mutant lines generated and informs the uptake of this new method.
Expression of Plasmodium Major Facilitator Superfamily Protein in Transporters-Delta Candida Identifies a Drug Transporter
Authors: Maurya Preeti , Kumar Mohit , Jain Ravi , Singh Harshita , Thaer Abdulhameed Almuqdadi Haider , Gupta Aashima , Arenz Christoph , Gaur Naseem , Singh Shailja
Published: February 2024

Aim: To assess the functional relevance of a putative Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) protein (PF3D7_0210300; PfMFS_DT) as a drug transporter, using Candida glabrata for orthologous protein expression. Methods: CDS encoding PfMFS_DT was integrated into the genome of genetically engineered C. glabrata strain MSY8 via homologous recombination, followed by assessing its functional relevance as a drug transporter. Results and Conclusion: The modified C. glabrata strain exhibited plasma membrane localization of PfMFS_DT and characteristics of an MFS transporter, conferring resistance to antifungals, ketoconazole and itraconazole. The nanomolar inhibitory effects of the drugs on the intra-erythrocytic growth of P. falciparum highlight their antimalarial properties. This study proposes PfMFS_DT as a drug transporter, expanding the repertoire of the currently known antimalarial resistome.
Two serial filters determine P2X7R cation selectivity, Ser342 in the central pore and lateral acidic residues at the cytoplasmic interface
Authors: Markwardt Fritz , Schoen Eike , Raycheva Mihaela , Malisetty Aparna Sai , Hawro Yakoob Sanaria , Berthold Malte , Schmalzing Guenther
Published: February 2024

The human P2X7R (hP2X7R) is a homotrimeric cell surface receptor gated by extracellular ATP4- with two transmembrane helices per subunit, TM1 and TM2. A ring of three S342 residues, one from each pore-forming TM2 helix, located halfway across the membrane bilayer, functions to close and open the gate in the apo and ATP4- bound open states, respectively. The hP2X7R is selective for small inorganic cations, but can also conduct larger organic cations such as Tris+. Here, we show by voltage-clamp electrophysiology in Xenopus laevis oocytes that mutation of S342 residues to positively charged lysines decreases the selectivity for Na+ over Tris+, but maintains cation selectivity. Deep in the membrane, laterally below the S342 ring are nine acidic residues arranged as an isosceles triangle consisting of residues E14, D352, and D356 on each side, which do not move significantly during gating. When the S342K mutation is combined with lysine substitutions of E14, D352, or D356, cation selectivity is lost and permeation of the small anion Cl- is allowed. Lysine substitutions of D352 alone or E14 plus D356 in the acidic triangle convert the S342K-hP2X7R mutant to a fully Cl--selective ATP4--gated receptor. We conclude that the ion selectivity of wild-type hP2X7R is determined by two sequential filters in one single pathway: (1) a primary size filter, S342, in the membrane center and (2) three cation filters lateral to the channel axis, one per subunit interface, consisting of a total of nine acidic residues at the cytoplasmic interface.
X-Ray Calc 3: improved software for simulation and inverse problem solving for X-ray reflectivity
Authors: Penkov Oleksiy V. , Li Mingfeng , Mikki Said , Devizenko Alexander , Kopylets Ihor
Published: February 2024

This work introduces X-Ray Calc (XRC), an open-source software package designed to simulate X-ray reflectivity (XRR) and address the inverse problem of reconstructing film structures on the basis of measured XRR curves. XRC features a user-friendly graphical interface that facilitates interactive simulation and reconstruction. The software employs a recursive approach based on the Fresnel equations to calculate XRR and incorporates specialized tools for modeling periodic multilayer structures. This article presents the latest version of the X-Ray Calc software (XRC3), with notable improvements. These enhancements encompass an automatic fitting capability for XRR curves utilizing a modified flight particle swarm optimization algorithm. A novel cost function was also developed specifically for fitting XRR curves of periodic structures. Furthermore, the overall user experience has been enhanced by developing a new single-window interface.
Submillisecond in situ X-ray diffraction measurement system with changing temperature and pressure using diamond anvil cells at BL10XU/SPring-8
Authors: Kawaguchi-Imada Saori , Sinmyo Ryosuke , Ohta Kenji , Kawaguchi Shogo , Kobayashi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2024

Recently, there has been a high demand for elucidating kinetics and visualizing reaction processes under extreme dynamic conditions, such as chemical reactions under meteorite impact conditions, structural changes under nonequilibrium conditions, and in situ observations of dynamic changes. To accelerate material science studies and Earth science fields under dynamic conditions, a submillisecond in situ X-ray diffraction measurement system has been developed using a diamond anvil cell to observe reaction processes under rapidly changing pressure and temperature conditions replicating extreme dynamic conditions. The development and measurements were performed at the high-pressure beamline BL10XU/SPring-8 by synchronizing a high-speed hybrid pixel array detector, laser heating and temperature measurement system, and gas-pressure control system that enables remote and rapid pressure changes using the diamond anvil cell. The synchronized system enabled momentary heating and rapid cooling experiments up to 5000 K via laser heating as well as the visualization of structural changes in high-pressure samples under extreme dynamic conditions during high-speed pressure changes.
Modelling the theory of planned behaviour to evaluate the investment intention of generation Z in the speculative market: stocks, Forex and cryptocurrencies
Authors: Pandurugan Vaidehi , Al Shammakhi Badriya Nasser Said
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The current research takes a closer look at the investment intention of Generation Z and its relation to investing in a speculative market. The study applies the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to understand the dominant factors leading to Generation Z investment decisions in speculative markets. The main objective is to identify whether these decisions are learnt decisions or herd behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modelling is used to evaluate the research model, and examine the mediation effect of financial literacy using bootstrapping in AMOS software. Information was gathered from 271 students studying at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences. The questionnaire used for the survey was adapted from previous related studies examining the TPB.

Findings

The findings show financial literacy and behavioural outcome (attitude) are key components associated with investment intention. Motivation to comply (subjective norm) affects the intention to invest if mediated by financial literacy. The subjective norm has no bearing on the intention to invest in a speculative market. This implies social peers have no bearing on their intention to invest unless mediated by financial literacy.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of the study is that the group from which the sample is drawn consists of all students at a state-funded university who receive stipends. This limits the applicability of related findings. Furthermore, the variables have dynamic properties, which implies their impacts may vary over time.

Practical implications

Generation Z comprises a large number of small investors who can make a significant difference to the overall economic trends of the country. The digital world, which is time- and space-infinite, is shaping the next generation. It is only possible to reach and sway their opinions by conducting extensive behavioural science research.

Social implications

Academic institutions ought to be viewed as a resource for conducting additional in-depth research on a variety of subjects to assist and shape the current generation for a better future.

Originality/value

Although the TPB has been used by many researchers to explore the behavioural intention of Generation Z, very few have used financial literacy as a perceived behaviour control to study its direct and indirect effects on behaviour intention.
Factors influencing competitive advantage in start-ups operations 4.0
Authors: Sreenivasan Aswathy , Suresh M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The ability of a business to outperform its rivals is known as its competitive edge, and it presents special difficulties in the context of the “digital revolution,” or the fourth industrial revolution. To obtain a competitive edge in the startup operations 4.0 era, this study aims to examine the organizational, technological and competence-related challenges presented by Industry 4.0. It does this by concentrating on the tools, competencies, methods, approaches, tools and strategies that are crucial. Using the Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (TISM) technique, the goal is to find, analyze and classify enablers for startup operations 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

A closed-ended questionnaire and planned interviews were used in the data collection process. In startup operations 4.0, the cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification method is used to rank and categorize competitive advantage factors, whereas the TISM technique is used to analyze how components interact.

Findings

The study highlights the critical significance of the “Internet of Things (IoT),” “information technologies,” “technological platforms,” “employee empowerment,” “augmented reality (AR)” and “operational technologies” in its identification of 12 enablers for startup operations 4.0.

Research limitations/implications

The main focus of the study is on the variables that affect startup operations 4.0’s competitive advantage.

Practical implications

Academics and important stakeholders can better understand the factors influencing competitive advantage in startup operations 4.0 with the help of this research.

Originality/value

Large businesses have been profoundly impacted by Industry 4.0 principles; however, startup operations 4.0’s competitive advantage has not received as much attention. This paper offers a fresh take on the concept of competitive advantage in startup operations 4.0 research.
Addressing learning and development issues in airport companies: implications for organizational development specialists
Authors: Atiku Sulaiman Olusegun , Oladejo Olufemi Michael , Sibalatani Angela Ntwala
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study examines the issues affecting learning and development (L&D) interventions to enhance operational efficiency in airport companies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a case study design following a qualitative approach for data collection and analysis procedure. A purposive sample of fifteen executives, including 6 Chief Executive Officers, along with 9 operational managers from the aviation industry in Namibia were suitable participants to gather information about issues affecting L&D for specific interventions to improve operational efficiency in airport companies. The data was collected using face-to-face interviews. The transcripts generated from the recordings were organized using thematic analysis via NVivo version 12.

Findings

The results showcased a lack of training needs assessment and process, inadequate specialized training and poor levels of commitment. Hence, specialized L&D interventions will impact commitment and work outcomes, which are essential for operational efficiency in airport companies.

Originality/value

There is a paucity of literature on how to address L&D issues for operational efficiency in the aviation sector.
Smoking effects on labor income: new evidence for Brazil
Authors: Vieira Leandro Pinheiro , Pereira Rafael Mesquita
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of smoking on the income of workers in the Brazilian labor market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from the 2019 National Health Survey (PNS), we initially address the sample selection bias concerning labor market participation by using the Heckman (1979) method. Subsequently, the decomposition of income between smokers and nonsmokers is analyzed, both on average and across the earnings distribution by employing the procedure of Firpo, Fortin, and Lemieux (2009) - FFL decomposition. Ñopo (2008) technique is also used to obtain more robust estimates.

Findings

Overall, the findings indicate an income penalty for smokers in the Brazilian labor market across both the average and all quantiles of the income distribution. Notably, the most significant differentials and income penalties against smokers are observed in the lower quantiles of the distribution. Conversely, in the higher quantiles, there is a tendency toward a smaller magnitude of this gap, with limited evidence of an income penalty associated with this habit.

Research limitations/implications

This study presents an important limitation, which refers to a restriction of the PNS (2019), which does not provide information about some subjective factors that also tend to influence the levels of labor income, such as the level of effort and specific ability of each worker, whether smokers or not, something that could also, in some way, be related to some latent individual predisposition that would influence the choice of smoking.

Originality/value

The relevance of the present study is clear in identifying the heterogeneity of the income gap in favor of nonsmokers, as in the lower quantiles there was a greater magnitude of differentials against smokers and a greater incidence of unexplained penalties in the income of these workers, while in the higher quantiles, there was low magnitude of the differentials and little evidence that there is a penalty in earnings since the worker is a smoker.
Business model innovation of 3D-printing garment enterprises in digital transformation: business model innovation canvas approach
Authors: Jin Yuran , Zhu Xiaolin , Zhang Xiaoxu , Wang Hui , Liu Xiaoqin
Published: February 2024

Purpose

3D printing has been warmly welcomed by clothing enterprises for its customization capacity in recent years. However, such clothing enterprises have to face the digital transformation challenges brought by 3D printing. Since the business model is a competitive weapon for modern enterprises, there is a research gap between business model innovation and digital transformation challenges for 3D-printing garment enterprises. The aim of the paper is to innovate a new business model for 3D-printing garment enterprises in digital transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

A business model innovation canvas (BMIC), a new method for business model innovation, is used to innovate a new 3D-printing clothing enterprises business model in the context of digital transformation. The business model canvas (BMC) method is adopted to illustrate the new business model. The business model ecosystem is used to design the operating architecture and mechanism of the new business model.

Findings

First, 3D-printing clothing enterprises are facing digital transformation, and they urgently need to innovate new business models. Second, mass customization and distributed manufacturing are important ways of solving the business model problems faced by 3D-printing clothing enterprises in the process of digital transformation. Third, BMIC has proven to be an effective tool for business model innovation.

Research limitations/implications

The new mass deep customization-distributed manufacturing (MDC-DM) business model is universal. As such, it can provide an important theoretical reference for other scholars to study similar problems. The digital transformation background is taken into account in the process of business model innovation. Therefore, this is the first hybrid research that has been focused on 3D printing, garment enterprises, digital transformation and business model innovation. On the other hand, business model innovation is a type of exploratory research, which means that the MDC-DM business model’s application effect cannot be immediately observed and requires further verification in the future.

Practical implications

The new business model MDC-DM is not only applicable to 3D-printing garment enterprises but also to some other enterprises that are either using or will use 3D printing to enhance their core competitiveness.

Originality/value

A new business model, MDC-DM, is created through BMIC, which allows 3D-printing garment enterprises to meet the challenges of digital transformation. In addition, the original canvas of the MDC-DM business model is designed using BMC. Moreover, the ecosystem of the MDC-DM business model is constructed, and its operation mechanisms are comprehensively designed.
The Auckland War Memorial Museum Online Cenotaph: community participation, collective memorialisation and social cohesion
Authors: Liew Chern Li , Passau Victoria
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Online/Digital cultural heritage platforms have the potential to serve as empowering sites and tools for democratic participation, and for promoting social cohesion, acting as convergence points for diverse societal groups. They enable the gathering of multiple voices, including those of minorities and groups often marginalised in mainstream cultural heritage documentation. This research paper examines the ways in which these aspirations of cultural heritage platforms as meeting, learning and dialogic spaces for connecting and empowering online communities have been realised.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative design, interviews were conducted with users of New Zealand’s Auckland War Memorial Museum’s Online Cenotaph. Participants shared their experiences with the platform, perceptions of it as a collective social history resource and views on its role as a participatory space for online communities. They also discussed their expectations for its development as an online space for collective memorialisation.

Findings

Interviews revealed that users value Online Cenotaph for placing personal, publicly contributed memories and narratives alongside primary military sources. Participants expressed feelings of civic responsibility, social awareness and a sense of identity and connection through their use and contribution to this online commemorative space. The shift from a one-way flow of information from the Museum towards embracing public contribution embodying a high-trust approach, was a notable finding.

Originality/value

This research underscores the evolving role of museums and other GLAM institutions in recognising the importance of inclusivity, diversity and community participation. It provides insights into how digital cultural heritage social platforms can contribute towards these goals and promote social cohesion. This research is also a starting point for further studies on crowdsourcing and social Web activities on digital cultural heritage platforms as sites of community building through public participation and engagement in historical/cultural heritage narratives.
Caring across borders: Indonesian care workers’ experiences of working in Japan
Authors: Gunawan Joko , Efendi Ferry , Tsujita Yuko , Oda Hisaya
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Despite the large number of Indonesian health-care workers working as migrant care workers in Japan, there is a lack of studies that have investigated this phenomenon or assessed the working conditions of Indonesian care workers working in Japanese aged-care facilities. This study aims to explore the work experiences of Indonesian care workers in Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative descriptive research design was used, and a purposive sample of 18 Indonesian health-care workers (12 nurses and six midwives) who work as care workers in Japan participated in this study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with these participants between December 2022 and January 2023. The data were analyzed using content analysis. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used to report this study.

Findings

Four key themes emerged from the data: easy but mentally challenging, being a care worker is a blessing, working in a partially Muslim-friendly environment and enjoy living: prefer to stay longer.

Originality/value

The work experiences of Indonesian care workers in Japan are complex and multifaceted. By understanding their experiences and needs, the authors can work toward creating more inclusive and supportive workplaces for all.
Platform success in the international marketplace: reconfiguring digital resources for marketing agility
Authors: Weng Chenchen , Liu Martin J. , Ye Dandan , Huang Jimmy , Liu Paul C.Y.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper explores how platforms reconfigure versatile digital resources to achieve marketing agility in international markets.

Design/methodology/approach

We draw on a case study of a Chinese digital platform to explore the processes and mechanisms of reconfiguring during marketing agility development. Data from different sources are collected, including interviews, informal dialogue and archival data.

Findings

Versatile digital resources create productive applications for previously less amendable marketing and nonmarketing resources to be malleable, editable and reconfigurable in marketing agility development. This study identifies and clarifies three versatile digital resource-enabled reconfiguration activities in marketing agility building: recombining digital artifacts, repurposing human capital and cross-pollinating markets.

Research limitations/implications

Since our study adopts a case study method, future research can extend our insights by using quantitative methods to test and verify our theoretical framework.

Practical implications

First, we provide insights into how organizations can reconfigure versatile digital resources to achieve the benefits of marketing agility in international markets. Second, while recruiting new employees during internationalization is vital, we suggest that assisted by digital artifacts, firms can repurpose the existing workforce, such as via multitasking, swift task-switching and flexible job redirecting to satisfy dynamic international business requirements with lower adjustment costs. Third, we offer two localization approaches in which firms can use digital artifacts as the enabler to remix sociocultural elements with local adaptations to develop glocal content and decentralize content production to generate inclusive local content.

Originality/value

We provide a process model that specifies how platforms reconfigure versatile digital resources to achieve marketing agility in international markets. Furthermore, we provide novel insights into the literature on marketing agility in international markets and localization.
Heavy migration traffic and bad weather are a dangerous combination: Bird collisions in New York City
Authors: Chen Katherine , Kross Sara M. , Parkins Kaitlyn , Seewagen Chad , Farnsworth Andrew , Van Doren Benjamin M.
Published: February 2024

Bird–building collisions account for 365–988 million bird fatalities every year in the United States alone. Understanding conditions that heighten collision risk is critical to developing effective strategies for reducing this source of anthropogenic bird mortality. Meteorological factors and regional migration traffic may increase collision rates but also may be difficult to disentangle from other effects.

We used 5 years of bird collision counts in New York City to examine the influence of nocturnal weather conditions and bird migration traffic rates on collisions with buildings during spring and fall.

We found that seasonally unfavourable winds and conditions that impede visibility are important factors that increase the rates of bird–building collisions during both seasons. Specifically, northerly and westerly winds and low visibility in the spring and southerly and westerly winds and low cloud ceiling height in the fall are associated with higher collision risks.

Generally, these weather variables associated most strongly with increased collisions when nocturnal bird migration traffic was high, with the exception of low visibility in spring, which was predicted to triple collision rates compared to high visibility, independent of bird migration traffic.

Synthesis and applications: Although legislation to turn off unnecessary nocturnal lighting for the entirety of the migration seasons may be an ultimate goal, a proximate goal invaluable for reducing collisions will be predicting which nights will be of highest risk and using this information to determine when mitigation efforts could be most effective.
Decoding climate change dynamics in Malaysia: Analysing energy, economic growth, foreign direct investment, and oil prices interplay
Authors: Bi Kejia , Masud Muhammad Mehedi , Akhtar Rulia , Md Noman Abu Hanifa , Zhao Yan , Al‐Mamun Abdullah
Published: February 2024

As a prominent CO2 producer in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is taking steps to mitigate carbon emissions amid its rapid economic expansion. However, there remains a limited understanding of the complex relationships among various factors such as domestic credit (DRC), energy consumption, green technology policy (GTP), oil prices (OPs), and FDI in shaping CO2 emissions. This study addresses this gap by examining both symmetric and asymmetric impacts of these factors—FDI, renewable and non‐renewable energy consumption, OP, GTP, DRC, and gross domestic products (GDP)—on CO2 emissions in Malaysia, considering both short and long‐term effects. Our research, which combines block exogeneity causation with ARDL and non‐linear ARDL cointegration approaches, spans data from 1980 to 2021 and provides several significant discoveries. This study provides support for the Environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis, highlighting the intricate balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. The symmetric findings reveal that factors such as high GDP, FDI, renewable energy consumption, and OP tend to increase emissions, while GTP and DRC have a mitigating effect on CO2 levels over both short and long periods. Moreover, FDI and OP show positive associations with CO2 emissions across various timeframes, whereas non‐renewable energy consumption displays a negative correlation with CO2 emissions. These findings have significant implications for Malaysia's environmental policies and strategies.
Flavonoids and phenolic acids from sugarcane: Distribution in the plant, changes during processing, and potential benefits to industry and health
Authors: Hewawansa Ulluwis H. A. J. , Houghton Michael J. , Barber Elizabeth , Costa Ricardo J. S. , Kitchen Barry , Williamson Gary
Published: February 2024

Sugarcane (Saccharum sp.) plants are grown in warmer climates throughout the world and processed to produce sugar as well as other useful byproducts such as molasses and bagasse. Sugarcane is rich in (poly)phenols, but there has been no attempt to critically evaluate the published information based on the use of suitable methodologies. The objective of this review is to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative (poly)phenolic profiles of individual parts of the sugarcane plant and its multiple industrial products, which will help develop new processes and uses for sugarcane (poly)phenols. The quantitative analysis involves the examination of extraction, concentration, and analytical techniques used in each study for each plant part and product. The qualitative analysis indicates the identification of various (poly)phenols throughout the sugarcane processing chain, using only compounds elucidated through robust analytical methodologies such as mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance. In conclusion, sugarcane (poly)phenols are predominantly flavonoids and phenolic acids. The main flavonoids, derivatives of apigenin, luteolin, and tricin, with a substantial proportion of C‐glycosides, are consistently found across all phases of sugarcane processing. The principal phenolic acids reported throughout the process include chlorogenic acids, as well as ferulic and caffeic acids mostly observed after hydrolysis. The derivation of precise quantitative information across publications is impeded by inconsistencies in analytical methodologies. The presence of multiple (poly)phenols with potential benefits for industrial applications and for health suggests sugarcane could be a useful provider of valuable compounds for future use in research and industrial processes.
Role of aminopeptidase N‐like in the acquisition of begomoviruses by Bemisia tabaci, the whitefly vector
Authors: Fan Yun‐Yun , Chi Yao , Chen Na , Cuellar Wilmer J. , Wang Xiao‐Wei
Published: February 2024

Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) is a prominent causative agent of cassava mosaic disease in Asia and relies on the whitefly Bemisia tabaci cryptic complex for its transmission. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in SLCMV transmission by B. tabaci have yet to be understood. In this study, we identified an aminopeptidase N‐like protein (BtAPN) in B. tabaci Asia II 1, an efficient vector of SLCMV, which is involved in the SLCMV transmission process. Through the use of glutathione S‐transferase pull‐down assay and LC‐MS/MS analysis, we demonstrated the interaction between BtAPN and the coat protein (CP) of SLCMV. This interaction was further confirmed in vitro, and we observed an induction of BtAPN gene expression following SLCMV infection. By interfering with the function of BtAPN, the quantities of SLCMV were significantly reduced in various parts of B. tabaci Asia II 1, including the whole body, midgut, hemolymph, and primary salivary gland. Furthermore, we discovered that BtAPN is conserved in B. tabaci Middle East‐Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1) and interacts with the CP of tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), a begomovirus known to cause severe damage to tomato production. Blocking BtAPN with antibody led to a significant reduction in the quantities of TYLCV in whitefly whole body and organs/tissues. These results demonstrate that BtAPN plays a generic role in interacting with the CP of begomoviruses and positively regulates their acquisition by the whitefly.
LncRNAENSGALG00000021686 regulates fat metabolism in chicken hepatocytes via miR‐146b/AGPAT2 pathway
Authors: Xing Wenhao , Li Shijie
Published: February 2024

The liver contributes to lipid metabolism as the hub of fat synthesis. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are considered the regulators of cellular processes. Since LncRNA ENSGALG00000021686 (lncRNA 21 686) has been described as a regulator of lipid metabolism, the present study aimed to clarify the role of lncRNA 21 686 in chicken hepatocytes’ lipid metabolism. Thirty‐two chickens were divided into four groups and were treated with diets containing different amounts of fat, and the hepatic expression of lncRNA 21 686 and miR‐146b along with the levels of proteins involved in the regulation of fat metabolism, lipid indices and oxidative stress were measured. Moreover, primary chicken hepatocytes were transfected with lncRNA 21 686 small interfering RNA or microRNA (miRNA, miR)‐146b mimics to measure the consequences of suppressing lncRNA or inducing miRNA expression on the levels of proteins involved in fat metabolism and stress markers. The results showed that the high‐fat diet modulated the expression of lncRNA 21 686 and miR‐146b (p‐value < 0.001). Moreover, there was a significant increase in 1‐acyl‐sn‐glycerol‐3‐phosphate acyltransferase 2 (AGPAT2) gene expression and protein levels and modulated fat‐related markers. Furthermore, the results showed that lncRNA 21 686 suppression reduced the expression of AGPAT2 and its downstream proteins (p‐value < 0.05). Overexpression of miR‐146b regulated fat metabolism indicator expression. Transfection experiments revealed that lncRNA 21 686 suppression increased miR‐146b expression. The findings suggested a novel mechanism containing lncRNA 21 686/miR‐146b/AGPAT2 in the regulation of fat metabolism in chicken hepatocytes.
The association between KRAS and histopathological growth patterns and the impact on resection margins around vasculature and bile ducts in colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Wong Pearl , Wong Geoffrey Yuet Mun , Toon Christopher W. , Chapuis Pierre , Hugh Thomas J.
Published: February 2024

The liver is the most frequent and often the only site of distant disease in colorectal cancer and, of all treatment protocols currently in use, resection is the most likely to result in long‐term cure. Within the liver, tumour proximity to major vasculature and biliary structures poses a resection challenge, requiring a balance of achieving negative margins while preserving adequate vascular circulation and biliary drainage. The focus on parenchymal sparing resections are important but just as important may be the ‘biological’ behaviour of the tumour. In colorectal liver metastases (CRLM), biomarkers such as the Kirsten rat sarcoma oncogene homologue (KRAS) gene and histological growth patterns (HGPs) further improve the prognostication after resection. However, to date, the association between the KRAS status and HGPs in CRLM and their impact on resection margins around major vasculature or biliary structures in terms of overall survival and recurrence rates are unclear. The aim of this review was to explore the available evidence for the association between KRAS and HGPs in CRLM and attempt to define their impact on resection margins near major structures.
The outcomes of team‐based learning vs small group interactive learning in the obstetrics and gynecology course for undergraduate students
Authors: Sterpu Irene , Herling Lotta , Nordquist Jonas , Möller Anna , Kopp Kallner Helena , Engberg Hedvig , Acharya Ganesh
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Team‐based learning (TBL) is a well‐established active teaching method which has been shown to have pedagogical advantages in some areas such as business education and preclinical disciplines in undergraduate medical education. Increasingly, it has been adapted to clinical disciplines. However, its superiority over conventional learning methods used in clinical years of medical school remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare TBL with traditional seminars delivered in small group interactive learning (SIL) format in terms of knowledge acquisition and retention, satisfaction and engagement of undergraduate medical students during the 6‐week obstetrics and gynecology clerkship.

Material and methods

The study was conducted at Karolinska Institutet, a medical university in Sweden, and had a prospective, crossover design. All fifth‐year medical students attending the obstetrics and gynecology clerkship, at four different teaching hospitals in Stockholm (approximately 40 students per site), in the Autumn semester of 2022 were invited to participate. Two seminars (one in obstetrics and one in gynecology) were designed and delivered in two different formats, ie TBL and SIL. The student:teacher ratio was approximately 10:1 in the traditional SIL seminars and 20:1 in the TBL. All TBL seminars were facilitated by a single teacher who had been trained and certified in TBL. Student knowledge acquisition and retention were assessed by final examination scores, and the engagement and satisfaction were assessed by questionnaires. For the TBL seminars, individual and team readiness assurance tests were also performed and evaluated.

Results

Of 148 students participating in the classrooms, 132 answered the questionnaires. No statistically significant differences were observed between TBL and SIL methods with regard to student knowledge acquisition and retention, engagement and satisfaction.

Conclusions

We found no differences in student learning outcomes or satisfaction using TBL or SIL methods. However, as TBL had a double the student to teacher ratio as compared with SIL, in settings where teachers are scarce and suitable rooms are available for TBL sessions, the method may be beneficial in reducing faculty workload without compromising students' learning outcomes.
Capillary leak syndrome was associated with more severe multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kahn Robin , Mossberg Maria , Berthold Elisabet , Schmidt Tobias , Najibi Seyed Morteza , Månsson Bengt , Król Petra
Published: February 2024

Aim

This population‐based study investigated the occurrence of capillary leak syndrome (CLS) in children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C), associated with COVID‐19. We also examined associations between CLS and MIS‐C disease severity.

Methods

All eligible individuals aged 0–18 years, who were diagnosed with MIS‐C in Skåne, southern Sweden, from 1 April 2020 to 31 July 2021, were studied. They were all included in the Pediatric Rheumatology Quality Register and clinical and laboratory data were compared between patients with and without CLS.

Results

We included 31 patients (61% male) with MIS‐C in the study. The median age at diagnosis was 10.6 years (range 1.99–17.15) and 45% developed CLS. All six patients who required intensive care had CLS. Patients with CLS also had a higher incidence of reduced cardiac function, measured as low ejection fraction. The CLS group exhibited significantly higher C‐reactive protein values (p < 0.001) and N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide levels (p < 0.001), as well as lower platelet counts (p = 0.03), during the first week of treatment. Individuals with CLS also received more intense immunosuppression.

Conclusion

CLS was a common complication of MIS‐C in our study and these patients had a more severe disease course that required more intensive treatment.
Genetic biomarkers of methotrexate response and safety in Crohn's disease: Data from the Spanish ENEIDA registry
Authors: Salazar Juliana , Garcia‐Planella Esther , Fernández‐Clotet Agnès , Esteve Maria , Gisbert Javier P. , Busquets David , Lucendo Alfredo , Márquez Lucía , Guardiola Jordi , Martín‐Arranz María Dolores , Iglesias Eva , Monfort David , Villoria Albert , Cañete Fiorella , Bell Olga , Ricart Elena , Zabana Yamile , Chaparro María , Domènech Eugeni , Gordillo Jordi ,   ENEIDA registry of GETECCU
Published: February 2024

Aims

Methotrexate (MTX) is used to induce and maintain remission in patients with steroid‐dependent Crohn's disease (CD). Despite its proven efficacy, its use is limited due to associated adverse events. Polymorphisms involving folate pathway genes might influence MTX efficacy and toxicity. We aimed to assess the impact of certain polymorphisms on the therapeutic outcomes of MTX in CD.

Methods

Patients with CD who exclusively followed MTX monotherapy and fulfilled inclusion criteria were identified from the GETECCU ENEIDA registry. Variants of ATIC, DHFR, MTHFR, SLC19A1, ABCB1 and ABCC3 genes were analysed and their association with efficacy and toxicity was assessed.

Results

A total of 129 patients were included in the analysis. MTX was used at a median weekly dose of 25 mg (interquartile range, 15–25 mg) and a median time of 14 months (interquartile range, 4–52 months). Thirty‐seven percent of the patients achieved disease remission with MTX monotherapy, while 34% were nonresponders (MTX failure). MTX‐related toxicity occurred in 40 patients (30%), leading to MTX discontinuation in 19%. DHFR rs408626 (odds ratio [OR] 3.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22–7.69; P = .017) and MTHFR rs1801133 (OR 2.86, 95% CI 1.23–6.68; P = .015) variants, and smoking (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.12–6.05; P = .026) were associated with a higher risk of MTX failure. Additionally, the MTHFR rs1801131 variant was associated with a higher risk of MTX‐related adverse effects (OR 2.78, 95% CI 1.26–6.13, P = .011).

Conclusion

Our study shows that variants of MTHFR and DHFR genes may be associated with MTX efficacy and adverse events in patients with CD.
‘She is failing; he is learning’: Gender‐differentiated attributions for girls' and boys' errors
Authors: Di Battista Silvia
Published: February 2024

Background

According to gender‐differentiated attributions of failure in the STEM field, errors tend to be attributed to internal factors more to girls than to boys.

Aims

This experimental study explored factors influencing gender‐differentiated teachers' internal attributions of girls' and boys' errors and the consequent likelihood of teachers' hesitancy to offer educational robotics (ER) courses to them. The predictions were as follows: (1) the likelihood of teachers' hesitancy would be related to gender‐differentiated internal attributions of errors based on expectations of a low natural aptitude for girls; and (2) teachers with high levels of gender stereotypes would be more hesitant about offering ER to girls than to boys via the mediation of internal attributions of errors as being due to girls' low levels of natural aptitude for ER.

Sample and Methods

In this experimental study, 155 Italian teachers (M = 38.59 years, SD = 8.20) responded to a questionnaire at the end of a course on ER in 2022. Teachers randomly read one of two vignettes describing a girl's or a boy's error during an ER course.

Results

Results of multiple regression and moderated mediation analyses confirmed both predictions.

Conclusions

In order to reduce the gender STEM gap, the tendency to attribute girls' errors to internal and natural causes should be better inspected.
Contrasting stances at the crossroads of debugging learning opportunities
Authors: DeLiema David , Hufnagle Ashley , Ovies‐Bocanegra Miguel
Published: February 2024

Background

Moments of failure during learning present a wide range of opportunities for growth. However, experimental research and meta reviews focused on failure and learning tend to target singular valued learning processes, such as efficient fixes or transfer of conceptual understanding. These analytical decisions conflict with research documenting that teachers and students pursue heterogeneous learning processes following impasses, including preparing to curb recurring problems and preparing for novel impasses.

Sample

This work focuses on weekend and summer computer science education workshops for middle school students (roughly ages 10–14) in a large city in the United States.

Method

Drawing on discursive psychology, interaction analysis and portraiture, we examine the selection and prioritization of five valued learning processes in naturalistic discourse around impasses, especially when students and teachers disagree with one another. In three case studies, our approach blends detailed analyses of conversations with longitudinal portraits of students across a year invested in learning coding.

Results

We document how moments of failure not only create openings for numerous learning opportunities, but also occasion argumentation between students and instructors about which valued learning process they view as worthy of prioritizing and pursuing in the moment, including their rationale for foregrounding a particular process.

Conclusion

We argue that this work throws light on an under‐examined, yet central tension around which goals and supports – and whose perspective on those goals and supports – to foreground in research and teaching that pursue productive learning from moments of failure.