bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Viroid-like RNAs Naturally Infect a Filamentous Fungus
Authors: Dong Kaili , Xu Chuan , Lv Ruiying , Kotta-Loizou Ioly , Jiang Jingjing , Kong Linghong , Li Shifang , Hong Ni , Wang Guoping , Coutts Robert H. A. , Xu Wenxing
Published: August 2022

Viroids have been found to naturally infect only plants, resulting in big losses for some crops, but whether viroids or viroid-like RNAs naturally infect non-plant hosts remains unknown. Here we report the existence of a set of exogenous, single-stranded circular RNAs, ranging in size between 157-450 nucleotides (nt), isolated from the fungus Botryosphaeria dothidea and nominated Botryosphaeria dothidea circular RNAs (BdcRNAs). BdcRNA(s) replicate autonomously in the nucleus via a rolling-circle replication mechanism following symmetric pathways with distribution patterns depending on strand polarity and species. BdcRNAs can modulate to different degrees specific biological traits (e.g., alter morphology, decrease growth rate, attenuate virulence, and increase or decrease tolerance to osmotic stress and oxidative stress) of the host fungus by regulating related metabolic pathways. Overall, BdcRNA(s) have genome characteristics similar to those of viroids and exhibit pathogenic effects on the fungal hosts. These novel viroid-like RNAs infecting fungi are proposed to be termed as mycoviroids. BdcRNA(s) may be regarded as additional inhabitants at the frontier of life in terms of genomic complexity, and represent a new class of acellular entities endowed with regulatory functions, and novel epigenomic carriers of biological information.

Significance statement

Several viroids have been transfected into unicellular and filamentous fungi to assess whether they can replicate, but no natural infections of fungi with viroid or viroid-like RNAs have been reported before. Here we describe a set of exogenous circular RNAs (cRNAs) in a phytopathogenic fungus. These cRNAs display molecular and biological features which might represent a new class of viroid-like cRNAs endowed with regulatory functions, and novel epigenomic carriers of biological information. This is the first report of infectious viroid-like RNAs (or exogenous small cRNAs) in a life kingdom (fungi) other than plants. We also present a subcellular analysis of cRNAs in a fungus for the first time and provide useful understanding in how cRNAs replicate, move, and are distributed in fungal cells.
Competence remodels the pneumococcal cell wall providing resistance to fratricide and surface exposing key virulence factors
Authors: Minhas Vikrant , Domenech Arnau , Synefiaridou Dimitra , Straume Daniel , Brendel Max , Cebrero Gonzalo , Liu Xue , Costa Charlotte , Baldry Mara , Sirard Jean-Claude , Perez Camilo , Gisch Nicolas , Hammerschmidt Sven , Håvarstein Leiv Sigve , Veening Jan-Willem
Published: August 2022

Competence development in the human pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae controls several features such as genetic transformation, biofilm formation and virulence. Competent bacteria produce so called ‘fratricins’ such as CbpD, that kill non-competent siblings by cleaving peptidoglycan (PGN). CbpD is a choline-binding protein (CBP) that binds to phosphorylcholine residues found on wall- and lipoteichoic acids (WTA and LTA) that together with PGN are major constituents of the pneumococcal cell wall. Competent pneumococci are protected against fratricide by producing the immunity protein ComM. How competence and fratricide contribute to virulence is unknown. Here, using a genome-wide CRISPRi-seq screen, we show that genes involved in teichoic acid biosynthesis are essential during competence. We demonstrate that LytR is the major enzyme mediating the final step in WTA formation, and that, together with ComM, is essential for immunity against CbpD. Importantly, we show that key virulence factors PspA and PspC become more surface-exposed at midcell during competence, in a CbpD-dependent manner. Together, our work supports a model in which activation of competence is crucial for host adherence by increased surface exposure of its various CBPs.
Yeast ORC sumoylation status fine-tunes origin licensing
Authors: Regan-Mochrie Gemma , Hoggard Timothy , Bhagwat Nikhil , Lynch Gerard , Hunter Neil , Remus Dirk , Fox Catherine A. , Zhao Xiaolan
Published: August 2022

Sumoylation is emerging as a posttranslation modification important for regulating chromosome duplication and stability. The origin recognition complex (ORC) that directs DNA replication initiation by loading the MCM replicative helicase onto origins is sumoylated in both yeast and human cells. However, the biological consequences of ORC sumoylation are unclear. Here we report the effects of hypersumoylation and hyposumoylation of yeast ORC on ORC activity and origin function using multiple approaches. ORC hypersumoylation preferentially reduced the function of a subset of early origins, while Orc2 hyposumoylation had an opposing effect. Mechanistically, ORC hypersumoylation reduced MCM loading in vitro and diminished MCM chromatin association in vivo. Either hypersumoylation or hyposumoylation of ORC resulted in genome instability and the dependence of yeast on other genome maintenance factors, providing evidence that appropriate ORC sumoylation levels are important for cell fitness. Thus, yeast ORC sumoylation status must be properly controlled to achieve optimal origin function across the genome and genome stability.
Do governance capacity and legitimacy affect citizens' satisfaction with COVID-19 management? Some evidence from South Asia
Authors: Jamil Ishtiaq , Hossain Akram
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Theoretically, both democ/ratic legitimacy and government capacity are necessary for successful crisis management, like the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors argue that there are important variations for pandemic management in the developed and democratic world. However, are these equally needed in the developing world where democracy and capacity are present in varying degrees and in some countries with a vast deficit? This article analyzes how legitimacy and capacity affect citizens' satisfaction with the pandemic management in South Asia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a survey of 3,423 randomly selected respondents from Facebook users in South Asia. The survey data are presented and discussed along with information derived from secondary sources to put the data in the broader context of the South Asian countries. The authors apply ordinary linear regression for statistical analysis.

Findings

The findings suggest that citizens are content with the performance of government institutions in COVID-19 management. They emphasize material well-being, such as relief provisions and financial incentives during the crisis period. They are, however, less concerned about the legitimacy dimension, although democracy in South Asia is flawed with excessive restrictions on public freedom during the pandemic. The contradictory findings may be due to the public orientation towards authoritarian culture and their preference for strongman rule in crisis management.

Practical implications

The governments in South Asia may systematically use army and police forces to manage crises as people are more satisfied with their performance during COVID-19 management.

Originality/value

This is the first time data across South Asia have been collected and analyzed about crisis management.
Effects of ball milling and load on transfer film formation of copper-based composites
Authors: Li Rongrong , Yin Yanguo , Zhang Kaiyuan , Song Ruhong , Chen Qi
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how ball milling (BM) and load influence transfer film on counterbody and the correlation between transfer film and tribological properties of copper-based composites.

Design/methodology/approach

The copper-based mixed powders preprocessed by BM for different times were used to manufacture sintered materials. Specimens were tested by a custom pin-on-flat linear reciprocating tribometer and characterized prior and after tests by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Image J® and Taylor-hobson-6 surface roughness meter were used to quantify the coverage and thickness of the transfer film.

Findings

Main results show that an appropriate amount of BM time and applied load can contribute to the formation of the transfer film on counterbody and effectively improve the tribological properties of the copper-based material. The transfer film coverage is linearly related to the friction coefficient, thickness of transfer film and wear volume. As the transfer film coverage increases, the coefficient of friction decreases. As the thickness of the transfer film increases, the amount of wear increases.

Originality/value

This work intends to control and optimize the formation of transfer film, thereby helping improve the tribological properties of materials and providing a reference to guide the preparation of Cu-based composites with excellent tribological properties.
Building halal industry in Indonesia: the role of electronic word of mouth to strengthen the halal brand image
Authors: Fachrurazi Fachrurazi , Silalahi Sahat Aditua Fandhitya , Hariyadi Hariyadi , Fahham Achmad Muchaddam
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This present study aims to investigate the effect of electronic word of mouth (e-WoM) behavior in Muslim social media on building a halal brand image (HBI) and its influence on purchase intention (PI). Also, Muslims’ altruism (ALT) and moral obligation (MO) were hypothesized as motivators to engage in e-WoM behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey involving 320 members of a Muslim halal forum was conducted. Further, structural equation modeling was used to assess the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

It is found that ALT and MO positively influence e-WoM behavior. Furthermore, E-WoM also significantly affects HBI and PI. Meanwhile, HBI has a positive effect on PI.

Practical implications

Indonesian halal marketers face difficulties developing a halal image as a critical differentiator, mainly due to the upsurging number of halal certifications and the consumer’s perception that all products available in the market are halal. This present study offers an alternative strategy for Indonesian marketers to strengthen the HBI through Muslim social media amidst the cluttering halal brands in the market.

Social implications

The development of HBI combined with social media interactions will accelerate the halal brand awareness and usage among society, especially in Indonesia, a Major Muslim country.

Originality/value

This present study provides empirical evidence that social media e-WoM, despite its lack of physical interaction and opportunity to scrutinize the halal features, effectively creates HBI and influences PI among Muslims.
Consumer ethnocentrism and buying intentions on electronic products: moderating effects of demographics
Authors: Alam Md. Ashraful , Roy Debashish , Akther Rehana , Hoque Rajidul
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Consumer ethnocentrism (CE) is a matter of interest for marketers over the decades. However, buying intentions toward domestically produced household electronic products in developing and underdeveloped countries have not been examined sufficiently. Hence, this study investigated the consumers' ethnocentrism and attitude toward domestically-produced household electronic goods. The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of consumer demographic attributes on ethnocentrism and its moderating effect on choosing domestically produced household electronic goods in the context of Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data have been collected from a sample of 172 respondents using a mall-intercept survey. Consumers' ethnocentrism level has been measured using CETSCALE on a five-point Likert scale. ANOVA and t-test were performed to compare different demographic groups regarding ethnocentrism levels. This study also applied the qualitative method by applying a manual approach.

Findings

The result shows that consumers' ethnocentrism levels do not vary with gender and income level. However, other demographic attributes, like occupation, age and education level, play a considerable role in CE tendency.

Originality/value

The study is one of the few that examines the consumers' ethnocentrism and attitudes toward electronic products produced in a developing country. The researchers expect that the outcome of the study would contribute to the domestic manufacturer focusing more rigorously on producing electronic products that would be accepted locally as well as globally.
Tembo Global Industries Limited – financing dilemma for the COVID-19 project
Authors: Gandhi Pervin A. , Thomas Sujo
Published: August 2022

Research methodology

The case proposes a discussion of the time value of money and capital budgeting concepts, including determining the effective overall cost of capital, estimating working capital requirements, consideration of all relevant cash flows – including opportunity costs, finding the present value of future cash flows (annuities and lump-sum cash flows) by linking the concepts of weighted average cost of capital and working capital and net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR).

Case overview/synopsis

Jehan Wadia, a newly appointed finance manager of Tembo Global Industries Ltd., is facing a dilemma in recommending an investment decision to Mr Variava, Chief Finance Officer. Implementation of the project requires an investment of INR 82m. Ms Stella, funding division head, proposed financing through equity and term loans in the proportion of 3:2, respectively. Mr Shrinivasan, handling the short-term financial needs of the firm, suggested a finance mix having a higher weight-age of debt. Mr Variava desires to maximize the wealth by taping the opportunity. The case is written for an experience in the capital budgeting dichotomy faced by managers in real-life situations.

Complexity academic level

This case can be used in various contexts – as a preparatory case in a foundation course of Financial Management at the graduate level to instill the fundamentals for evaluating long-term investment decisions or in courses of Strategic Financial Management or Corporate Finance at the undergraduate or graduate level as a capstone case to reinforce the application of multiple concepts in strategic financial decision making.
Mannose binding lectin‐associated serine protease 2 (MASP2) gene polymorphism and susceptibility to human T‐lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) infection in blood donors from Mashhad, Iran
Authors: Aghamohammadi Akram , Rafatpanah Houshang , Maghsoodlu Mahtab , Tohidi Nastaran , Mollahosseini Farzad , Shahabi Majid
Published: August 2022

Mannose binding lectin‐associated serine protease 2 (MASP2) is the effector part of mannose binding lectin (MBL) that activates the complement system in an antibody‐independent manner. We aimed to investigate the role of genetic polymorphisms in the MASP2 gene and susceptibility to HTLV‐1 infection. A total of 172 HTLV‐1 infected individuals and 170 healthy blood donors were analyzed in this case–control study. Nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) encompassing different regions of the MASP2 gene were genotyped with a polymerase chain reaction‐sequence‐specific primer (PCR‐SSP) assay. The relation between the SNPs genotype and the susceptibility to HTLV‐1 infection was investigated with a χ2 test considering P < 0.05 as statistically significant. Two of nine tested SNPs were associated with the risk of HTLV‐1 infection. The genotype TT at rs17409276 decreased the risk of HTLV‐1 (P = 0.005, OR = 0.301, 95% CI = 0.124–0.728). The genotypes CC and CT at rs2273346 were also associated with a higher risk of HTLV‐1 acquisition (P = 0.004, OR = 2.225, 95% CI = 1.277–3.877). These findings highlight the importance of MASP2 genetic polymorphisms in the lectin pathway of complement activation and susceptibility to HTLV‐1 infection.
Mentally Maimed, Differently Treated. Attitudes Towards Mentally Disabled Civil War Veterans in Finland 1918–39
Authors: LISKI VIRVA
Published: August 2022

This article analyses the ideological, political and medical positioning of mentally ill veterans of the Finnish Civil War of 1918 in inter‐war Finland. Using pension applications, the writings of veteran activists, parliamentary debates, psychiatric examinations and military documents this article shows that war‐related mental disability was a locally and nationally politicised, sympathised and justified phenomenon in inter‐war Finland, as long as the maimed veteran had fought honourably on the White side of the internal conflict. White narrative also fuelled ideological interpretations of war neurosis and mental disability among doctors and even psychiatrists, many of whom had participated in the Civil War on the White side. Studying mental illness in a multiveteran cohort provides an important vantage point for understanding the values of hardiness and stamina as masculine ideals, and allows us to trace the flexible intersection of these demands with political identity, hegemonic ideological objectives, medical knowledge and class considerations after a civil war. It broadens our understanding of the influence that ideological and political forces have in the formation of medical understanding and diagnostic practice where mental health disabilities are concerned.
Association between high levels of comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms and decreased likelihood of birth without intervention: A longitudinal prospective cohort study
Authors: Hulsbosch Lianne P. , Boekhorst Myrthe G. B. M. , Lodder Paul , Potharst Eva S. , Nyklíček Ivan , Bergink Veerle , Oei S. Guid , Verhoeven Corine J. M. , Pop Victor J. M.
Published: August 2022

Objective

To assess the association between trajectories of comorbid anxiety and depressive (CAD) symptoms assessed in each pregnancy trimester and physiological birth.

Design

Large longitudinal prospective cohort study with recruitment between January 2013 and September 2014.

Setting

Primary care, in the Netherlands.

Population

Dutch‐speaking pregnant women with gestational age at birth ≥37 weeks, and without multiple pregnancy, severe psychiatric disorder or chronic disease history.

Methods

Pregnancy‐specific anxiety and depressive symptoms were measured prospectively in each trimester of pregnancy using the negative affect subscale of the Tilburg Pregnancy Distress Scale and Edinburgh (Postnatal) Depression Scale. Data on physiological birth were obtained from obstetric records. Multivariate growth mixture modelling was performed in MPLUS to determine longitudinal trajectories of CAD symptoms. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between trajectories and physiological birth.

Main outcome measures

Trajectories of CAD symptoms and physiological birth.

Results

Seven trajectories (classes) of CAD symptoms were identified in 1682 women and subsequently merged into three groups: group 1—persistently low levels of symptoms (reference class 1; 79.0%), group 2—intermittently high levels of symptoms (classes 3, 6 and 7; 11.2%), and group 3—persistently high levels of symptoms (classes 2, 4 and 5; 9.8%). Persistently high levels of CAD symptoms (group 3) were associated with a lower likelihood of physiological birth (odds ratio 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.47–0.95, P = 0.027) compared with the reference group (persistently low levels of symptoms), after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusions

This study is the first showing evidence that persistently high CAD levels, assessed in each pregnancy trimester, are associated with a lower likelihood of physiological birth.
Evolutionary genomics analysis reveals gene expansion and functional diversity of arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferases in the Culicinae subfamily of mosquitoes
Authors: Tang Yu , Chen Huaqing , Lin Zhinan , Zhang Lei , Upadhyay Archana , Liao Chenghong , Merkler David J. , Han Qian
Published: August 2022

Arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (aaNAT), considered a potential new insecticide target, catalyzes the acetylation of arylalkylamine substrates such as serotonin and dopamine and, hence, mediates diverse functions in insects. However, the origin of insect aaNATs (iaaNATs) and the evolutionary process that generates multiple aaNATs in mosquitoes remain largely unknown. Here, we have analyzed the genomes of 33 species to explore and expand our understanding of the molecular evolution of this gene family in detail. We show that aaNAT orthologs are present in Bacteria, Cephalochordata, Chondrichthyes, Cnidaria, Crustacea, Mammalia, Placozoa, and Teleoste, as well as those from a number of insects, but are absent in some species of Annelida, Echinozoa, and Mollusca as well as Arachnida. Particularly, more than 10 aaNATs were detected in the Culicinae subfamily of mosquitoes. Molecular evolutionary analysis of aaNAT/aaNAT‐like genes in mosquitoes reveals that tandem duplication events led to gene expansion in the Culicinae subfamily of mosquitoes more than 190 million years ago. Further selection analysis demonstrates that mosquito aaNATs evolved under strongly positive pressures that generated functional diversity following gene duplication events. Overall, this study may provide novel insights into the molecular evolution of the aaNAT family in mosquitoes.
Global disease burden of stroke attributable to high fasting plasma glucose in 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019: An analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Wenxin , Huang Xuewei , Zhang Xingyuan , Lin Lijin , Qin Juan‐Juan , Lei Fang , Cai Jingjing , Cheng Bo
Published: August 2022

Background

High fasting plasma glucose (HFPG) is the leading risk factor contributing to the increase of stroke burden in the past three decades. However, the global distribution of stroke burden specifically attributable to HFPG was not studied in depth. Therefore, we analyzed the HFPG‐attributable burden in stroke and its subtypes in 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Detailed data on stroke burden attributable to HFPG were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. The numbers and age‐standardized rates of stroke disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs), deaths, years lived with disability, and years of life lost between 1990 and 2019 were estimated by age, sex, and region.

Results

In 2019, the age‐standardized rate of DALYs (ASDR) of HFPG‐attributable stroke was 354.95 per 100 000 population, among which 49.0% was from ischemic stroke, 44.3% from intracerebral hemorrhage, and 6.6% from subarachnoid hemorrhage. The ASDRs of HFPG‐attributable stroke in lower sociodemographic index (SDI) regions surpassed those in higher SDI regions in the past three decades. Generally, the population aged over 50 years old accounted for 92% of stroke DALYs attributable to HFPG, and males are more susceptible to HFPG‐attributable stroke than females across their lifetime.

Conclusions

Successful key population initiatives targeting HFPG may mitigate the stroke disease burden. Given the soaring population‐attributable fractions of HFPG for stroke burden worldwide, each country should assess its disease burden and determine targeted prevention and control strategies.
Chromosomal‐level assembly of Bactericera cockerelli reveals rampant gene family expansions impacting genome structure, function and insect‐microbe‐plant‐interactions
Authors: Kwak Younghwan , Argandona Jacob A. , Degnan Patrick H. , Hansen Allison K.
Published: August 2022

Lineage specific expansions and gene duplications are some of the most important sources of evolutionary novelty in eukaryotes. Although not as prevalent in eukaryotes compared to bacteria, horizontal gene transfer events can also result in key adaptations for insects, especially for those involved in insect‐microbe interactions. In this study we assemble the first chromosomal assembly of the psyllid Bactericera cockerelli and reveal that the B. cockerelli genome has experienced significantly more gene expansion events compared to other Hemipteran representatives with fully sequenced genomes. We also reveal that B. cockerelli's genome is the largest psyllid genome (567 Mb) sequenced to date and is ~15% larger than the other two psyllid species genomes sequenced (Pachypsylla venusta and Diaphorina citri). Structurally, B. cockerelli appears to have an additional chromosome compared to the distantly related psyllid species P. venusta due to a previous chromosomal fission or fusion event. The increase in genome size and dynamic nature of the B. cockerelli genome may largely be contributed to the widespread expansion of type I and II repeat elements that are rampant across all of B. cockerelli's. chromosomes. These repeat elements are distributed near equally in both euchromatic and heterochromatic regions. Furthermore, significant gene family expansions and gene duplications were uncovered for genes that are expected to be important in its adaptation to insect‐plant and microbe interactions, which include transcription factors, proteases, odorant receptors, and horizontally transferred genes that are involved in the nutritional symbioses with their long‐term nutritional endosymbiont Carsonella.
Estonia: Political Developments and Data in 2021
Authors: MÖLDER MARTIN
Published: August 2022

There was one government change and two elections in Estonia in 2021. In January, the Ratas II government, led by the Centre Party and also including the populist Estonian Conservative People's Party and the conservative Fatherland, was replaced by the K. Kallas I government, a coalition of the liberal Reform Party and the Centre Party. Indirect presidential elections were held at the end of August and Parliament elected Alar Karis as the new President of the Republic. Local elections took place in October and did not produce any major surprises. Regular day‐to‐day politics and campaigning were overshadowed by waves of COVID‐19 in spring and autumn, and the onset of an energy crisis at the end of the year.
Pharmacokinetics, systemic toxicity, thermoregulation and acute behavioural effects of 25CN‐NBOMe
Authors: Šíchová Klára , Syrová Kateřina , Kofroňová Edita , Pinterova‐Leca Nikola , Vejmola Čestmír , Nykodemová Jitka , Palivec Petr , Olejníková Lucie , Danda Hynek , Jorratt Pascal , Adam Šafanda , Hiep Bui Quang , Štefková‐Mazochová Kristýna , Končická Markéta , Kuchař Martin , Páleníček Tomáš
Published: August 2022

N‐(2‐methoxybenzyl)phenethylamines (NBOMes) are a family of potent 5‐HT2A agonists containing substances emerging on the illicit drug market as a replacement for N,N‐diethyllysergamide (LSD). Despite the increasing use of NBOMes for diagnostic, research and recreational purposes, only a limited number of studies have focussed on their in vivo effect. Here, we investigated pharmacokinetics, systemic toxicity, thermoregulation in individually and group‐housed animals, and acute behavioural effects after subcutaneous administration of 2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐(2‐((2‐methoxybenzyl)amino)ethyl)benzonitrile (25CN‐NBOMe; 0.2, 1, and 5 mg/kg) in Wistar rats. Drug concentration peaked 1 h after the administration of 5 mg/kg in both blood serum and brain tissue with a half‐life of 1.88 and 2.28 h, respectively. According to Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development 423 toxicity assay, the drug is classified into category 3 with a lethal dose of 300 mg/kg and an estimated LD50 value of 200 mg/kg. Histological examination of organs collected from rats injected with the lethal dose revealed subtle pathological changes, highly suggestive of acute cardiovascular arrest due to malignant arrhythmia. Altered thermoregulation after 5 mg/kg was demonstrated by reduced body temperature in individually housed rats (p < 0.01). Behavioural effects assessed by the Open Field test and Prepulse Inhibition of Startle Response revealed that the two lower doses (0.2 and 1 mg/kg) caused a reduction in locomotor activity (p < 0.01), increased anxiety (p < 0.05) and 5 mg/kg additionally impaired sensorimotor gating (p < 0.001). In summary, 25CN‐NBOMe readily passes the blood–brain barrier and exhibits a moderate level of toxicity and behavioural effect comparable with other NBOMes.
Addition of point‐of‐care test reduces antibiotic prescription in hospitalised children with suspected respiratory tract infection: A pre‐test–post‐test study
Authors: Hansen Lotte Høeg , Nissen Katrine Dueholm , Pedersen Andreas , Mogensen Christian Backer , Skjøt‐Arkil Helene
Published: August 2022

Aim

Prompt and accurate aetiological diagnostics are needed if physicians are to improve and target antibiotic treatment. We aimed to investigate whether antibiotic‐prescribing decisions are improved with availability of point‐of‐care polymerase chain reaction (POC‐PCR) diagnostic testing of children with suspected respiratory tract infection, and if it had an impact on referral for additional medical procedures.

Methods

This was a single‐centre one‐group pre‐test–post‐test study. Children visiting our paediatric department with respiratory tract infection symptoms were included if the treating paediatrician was considering an antibiotic prescription. Throat swabs were analysed for pathogens using POC‐PCR. The paediatrician registered treatment decisions, referrals for additional procedures and decisions about hospitalisation into a questionnaire before and after receiving the POC‐PCR results.

Results

We included 95 children. The availability of results from POC‐PCR analysis significantly changed the prescribed antibiotic treatment to non‐antibiotic treatment in 46% (36%–56%) of the children and the reverse in 2% (1%–8%). Paediatricians referred significantly fewer patients to additional medical procedures with availability of POC‐PCR.

Conclusion

POC‐PCR significantly reduced the odds of antibiotic prescription and referral for additional medical procedures. Thus, POC‐PCR presents an opportunity to improve antibiotic‐prescribing practices if it is combined with standard clinical evaluation.
Art of resistance: Art activism, experts, and housing security in Nang Loeng, Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Natakun Boonanan , Rugkhapan Napong Tao
Published: August 2022

The paper presents a case study of art activism in Nang Loeng, a historic neighbourhood in Bangkok, Thailand. Long recognised for its rich cultural heritage from food to architecture, Nang Loeng has established its name as a site of cultural tourism, drawing interest from tourists, artists, and professional experts. Like many neighbourhoods nearby, Nang Loeng today is being threatened by looming gentrification and eviction, as the inner city is transforming itself into a tourist destination. In particular, the upcoming underground construction has put their housing security under pressure. The paper first discusses the context of rail‐led urban transformation in historic Bangkok, fuelled by the discourse of transit‐oriented development. Then, it introduces Nang Loeng and their series of art‐based programmes. Disappointed by their failure to secure housing tenure from the landlord, Nang Loeng residents have turned to activism as a tool of resistance. Here, the paper pays particular attention to the role of community architects who creatively translates neighbourhood concerns into artistic forms. Through the case of Buffalo Field Festival, the paper illustrates how the community architects, artists and local residents collaboratively use Nang Loeng's cultural assets to make subtle political statements.
Risk factors associating with delayed gastric emptying after laparoscopic distal gastrectomy
Authors: Kameyama Akira , Yoshifuku Seiziro , Sasahara Kotaro , Otagiri Noriaki , Miyamoto Masatake , Nishida Yasunori , Tauchi Katsunori
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of delayed gastric emptying among the patients receiving laparoscopic distal gastrectomy, and to explore their clinical features and risk factors.

Methods

Clinical data were collected for 223 patients who underwent laparoscopic distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer. We retrospectively evaluated the clinicopathological features and analyzed the incidence of delayed gastric emptying among 223 patients. Delayed gastric emptying was diagnosed by patient's symptoms and the plane radiograph with an air fluid level and dilation of the remnant stomach.

Results

Delayed gastric emptying was found in five (2.2%) of the 223 patients. By univariate logistic regression analysis, greater American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA‐PS) and older age were significantly related to occurrence of delayed gastric emptying. By multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age was independently significantly related to incident delayed gastric emptying. The area under the curve (AUC) ((95% CI) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was 0.842 (0.561–0.957). The best cutoff for discriminating patients with and without delayed gastric emptying was 80 years (sensitivity 80% and specificity 83%).

Conclusion

Our study found the occurrence of delayed gastric emptying is possibly correlated with age. Therefore, careful perioperative observation in elderly patients may possibly be important for possible development of delayed gastric emptying after laparoscopic distal gastrectomy.
If MacIntyre ran a business school… how practical wisdom can be developed in management education
Authors: Sison Alejo José G. , Redín Dulce M.
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this paper is to show how a MacIntyre‐inspired business school could contribute to developing practical wisdom in students through its curriculum, methods, faculty, student selection criteria, and governance. Despite MacIntyre's critiques, management can be presented, in MacIntyrean terms, as a second‐order, domain‐relative practice, with practical wisdom as corresponding virtue. Management education consists in developing practical wisdom. How? Primarily by initiating students and enabling them to participate in communal traditions of inquiry focused on, although not limited to, the purposes and ends of business. The transmission of objective knowledge, analytical skills, and techniques is subordinated to the end goal. We consider traditions centered on shareholder value maximization, the balancing of stakeholder interests, and the fulfillment of the common good of firms. Each gives rise to a particular kind of business school. A MacIntyrean business school is one that seeks the common good of firms.
JNK pathway plays a critical role for expansion of human colorectal cancer in the context of BRG1 suppression
Authors: Yoshikawa Takaaki , Fukuda Akihisa , Omatsu Mayuki , Namikawa Mio , Sono Makoto , Fukunaga Yuichi , Masuda Tomonori , Araki Osamu , Nagao Munemasa , Ogawa Satoshi , Masuo Kenji , Goto Norihiro , Hiramatsu Yukiko , Muta Yu , Tsuda Motoyuki , Maruno Takahisa , Nakanishi Yuki , Kawada Kenji , Takaishi Shigeo , Seno Hiroshi
Published: August 2022

Tumor stem cells (TSCs), capable of self‐renewal and continuous production of progeny cells, could be potential therapeutic targets. We have recently reported that chromatin remodeling regulator Brg1 is required for maintenance of murine intestinal TSCs and stemness feature of human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells by inhibiting apoptosis. However, it is still unclear how BRG1 suppression changes the underlying intracellular mechanisms of human CRC cells. We found that Brg1 suppression resulted in upregulation of the JNK signaling pathway in human CRC cells and murine intestinal TSCs. Simultaneous suppression of BRG1 and the JNK pathway, either by pharmacological inhibition or silencing of c‐JUN, resulted in even stronger inhibition of the expansion of human CRC cells compared to Brg1 suppression alone. Consistently, high c‐JUN expression correlated with worse prognosis for survival in human CRC patients with low BRG1 expression. Therefore, the JNK pathway plays a critical role for expansion and stemness of human CRC cells in the context of BRG1 suppression, and thus a combined blockade of BRG1 and the JNK pathway could be a novel therapeutic approach against human CRC.
C2‐linked alkynyl poly‐ethylene glycol(PEG) adenosine conjugates as water‐soluble adenosine receptor agonists
Authors: Ferguson Lindsay , Madieh Nasrin Shokrzadeh , Vaideanu Alexandra , Schatzlein Andreas , Festa Joseph , Singh Harprit , Wells Geoffrey , Bhakta Sanjib , Brucoli Federico
Published: August 2022

A series of 12 novel polyethylene‐glycol(PEG)‐alkynyl C2‐adenosine(ADN) conjugates were synthesized using a robust Sonogashira coupling protocol and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry analysis. The ADN‐PEG conjugates showed null to moderate toxicity in murine macrophages and 12c was active against Mycobacterium aurum growth (MIC = 62.5 mg/L). The conjugates were not active against Mycobacterium bovis BCG. Conjugates 10b and 11b exhibited high water solubility with solubility values of 1.22 and 1.18 mg/ml, respectively, in phosphate buffer solutions at pH 6.8. Further, 10b and 11b induced a significant increase in cAMP accumulation in RAW264.7 cells comparable with that induced by adenosine. Analogues 10c, 11c and 12c were docked to the A1, A2A, A2B and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs) using crystal‐structures and homology models. ADN‐PEG‐conjugates bearing chains with up to five ethyleneoxy units could be well accommodated within the binding sites of A1, A2A and A3 ARs. Docking studies showed that compound 10b and 11b were the best A2A receptor binders of the series, whereas 12c was the best binder for A1 AR. In summary, introduction of hydrophilic PEG substituents at the C2 of adenine ring significantly improved water solubility and did not affect AR binding properties of the ADN‐PEG conjugates.
The U.S. market for imported wildlife not listed in the CITES multilateral treaty
Authors: Watters Freyja , Stringham Oliver , Shepherd Chris R. , Cassey Phillip
Published: August 2022

The international wildlife trade presents severe conservation and environmental security risks, yet no international regulatory framework exists to monitor the trade of species not listed in the appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). We explored the composition and dynamics of internationally regulated versus nonregulated trade, with a focus on importations of wild‐caught terrestrial vertebrates entering the United States from 2009 to 2018. We used 10 years of species‐level trade records of the numbers of live, wild‐caught animals imported to the United States and data on International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates of extinction risk to determine whether there were differences in the diversity, abundance, and risk to extinction among imports of CITES‐listed versus unlisted species. We found 3.6 times the number of unlisted species in U.S. imports compared with CITES‐listed species (1366 vs. 378 species). The CITES‐listed species were more likely to face reported conservation threats relative to unlisted species (71.7% vs. 27.5%). However, 376 unlisted species faced conversation threats, 297 species had unknown population trends, and 139 species were without an evaluation by the IUCN. Unlisted species appearing for the first time in records were imported 5.5 times more often relative to CITES‐listed species. Unlisted reptiles had the largest rate of entry, averaging 53 unique species appearing in imports for the first time per year. Overall trade quantities were approximately 11 times larger for imports of unlisted species relative to imports of CITES‐listed species. Countries that were top exporters of CITES‐listed species were mostly different from exporters of unlisted species. Because of the vulnerabilities of unlisted, traded species entering the United States and increasing global demand, we strongly recommend governments adapt their policies to monitor and report on the trade of all wildlife.
Cross‐cultural mobile game evaluation shows improvement in environmental learning, but not behavior
Authors: Thomas‐Walters Laura , Veríssimo Diogo
Published: August 2022

Games have a wide range of potential uses, from mediating conservation conflicts to changing behaviors. However, there have been few impact evaluations of serious games published in the environmental field. We conducted the first cross‐cultural evaluation of an environmental mobile game, Save The Purple Frog. In a randomized control trial with both UK and Indian participants, we found very strong evidence that Save The Purple Frog had a positive impact on learning (effect size 0.62, p = 0.0001), but no evidence that it affected behaviors or attitudes. Our study contributes to the evidence base for environmental serious games, demonstrating their potential as an engaging tool for environmental education. We suggest examining the impact of longer gameplay as a future research direction, as well as exploring different gameplay styles.
An involvement of COX and 5‐LOX pathways in the penicillin‐ and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)‐induced epilepsy models
Authors: Taskiran Mehmet , Taşdemir Abdulkadir
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to examine the relationship between epilepsy and COX/5‐LOX inflammation pathways in the penicillin and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)‐induced epilepsy models. For this purpose, 42 albino male Wistar rats were used in this study. In the penicillin and PTZ‐induced epilepsy models, epileptiform activity was induced by injection of penicillin (500 IU, i.c.) and PTZ (35 mg/kg, i.p., three times a week), respectively. Licofelone (20 mg/kg, i.p.), a dual inhibitor of COX/5‐LOX, and esculetin (20 mg/kg, i.p.), a 5‐LOX inhibitor, were given. In the penicillin‐induced epilepsy model, ECoG activity was recorded for 180 min. In the PTZ‐induced epilepsy model, both ECoG activity was recorded, and behavioral parameters were performed. In the penicillin groups, both licofelone and esculetin decreased the mean spike frequency and amplitude during the experiments. In the PTZ groups, licofelone (20 mg/kg, i.p.) was more effective than esculetin (20 mg/kg, i.p.). Licofelone showed its protective effects both in ECoG activity and in behavioral parameters. Esculetin was less effective when compared to licofelone. The electrophysiological and behavioral data from the present study indicated that inflammation pathways might have a crucial role in controlling epileptiform activity in rats. Licofelone might be a valuable candidate in advanced studies.
Applied Geophysics for Managed Aquifer Recharge
Authors: Parker Timothy K. , Jansen John , Behroozmand Ahmad‐Ali , Halkjaer Max , Thorn Paul
Published: August 2022

Increasing water stress and decreasing supplies caused by growth and climate variability have expanded demand for managed aquifer recharge (MAR) projects to provide water supply resilience. Some of the most important factors in determining the performance of a MAR project include site selection, subsurface hydrogeologic characteristics and associated properties of the storage zone. Costs for invasive subsurface investigations to address these factors have slowly increased over the past two decades, with drilling costs increasing dramatically by as much as 30% or more since COVID‐19 hit, a result of supply chain issues, steel prices, and manpower challenges. This paper provides a high‐level review of major geophysical methods that have become more mainstream over the past decade or two to supplement invasive subsurface investigations and are very cost effective when compared to drilling boreholes and installing wells, which provide only point data. The more commonly used surface geophysical methods include ground‐based and airborne time‐domain electromagnetic methods (TEM), electrical resistivity, and seismic reflection. Airborne TEM methods (AEM) collect data very quickly, avoiding ground‐based access constraints, and land‐based methods are especially efficient using towed arrays. Electrical resistivity measurements provide resolution comparable to TEM but require more time than towed methods. Seismic reflection surveys are more expensive than other methods but typically have a much greater depth of penetration and can provide high resolution information on aquifer geometry, geology, and faults. Borehole geophysics is one of the more common methods used in MAR, providing near hole formation data and ground truths surface geophysics.
The Ecology of Engagement: Fostering cooperative efforts in health with patients and communities
Authors: Boivin Antoine , Dumez Vincent , Castonguay Geneviève , Berkesse Alexandre
Published: August 2022

Context

Patients and community members are engaged in nearly every aspect of health systems. However, the engagement literature remains siloed and fragmented, which makes it difficult to connect engagement efforts with broader goals of health, equity and sustainability. Integrated and inclusive models of engagement are needed to support further transformative efforts.

Methods

This article describes the Ecology of Engagement, an integrated model of engagement. The model posits that: (1) Health ecosystems include all members of society engaged in health; (2) Engagement is the ‘together’ piece of health and healthcare (e.g., caring for each other, preventing, researching, teaching and building policies together); (3) Health ecosystems and engagement are interdependent from each other, both influencing health, equity, resilience and sustainability.

Conclusion

The Ecology of Engagement offers a common sketch to foster dialogue on engagement across health ecosystems. The model can drive cooperative efforts with patients and communities on health, equity, resilience and sustainability.

Patients and Public Contribution

Three of the authors have lived experiences as patients. One has a socially disclosed identity as a patient partner leader with extensive experience in engagement (individual care, education, research, management and policy). Two authors have significant experience as patients and informal caregivers, which were mobilized in descriptive illustrations. A fourth author has experience as an engaged citizen in health policy debates. All authors have professional lived experience in health (manager, researcher, health professional, consultant and educator). Six patient and caregiver partners with lived experience of engagement (other than the authors) contributed important revisions and intellectual content.
Coordination polymers as precursors of simple and complex oxides
Authors: Hayashi Hiroyuki , Morimitsu Yuta , Tatsumi Ikko , Tanaka Isao
Published: August 2022

Coordination polymers (CPs) are assembled from metal ions and organic linker molecules. Here, we demonstrate that CPs can be used as precursors for simple and complex oxide synthesis. First, we investigated the conditions for linker solutions in which CP was obtained as precipitate only by mixing and stirring the solutions for each of the 28 metal–ion aqueous solutions. Evaluation of the crystalline phase of the samples obtained by firing the precipitates revealed that CPs could be used as precursors of simple oxides for 21 metal ions. Next, we conducted experiments to prepare precursors of 10 complex oxides with an AnBnOm composition containing equimolar amounts of metal ions. Seven complex oxides were successfully synthesized. Three of them were complex oxides that could not be synthesized by the spray coprecipitation method. The present method has a comparable precursor preparation capability to the spray coprecipitation method. Because of the much shorter time for the precursor synthesis, the present method should be useful for parallel and automated experiments.