bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BAG3 Pro209 mutants associated with myopathy and neuropathy relocate chaperones of the CASA-complex to aggresomes
Authors: Adriaenssens Elias , Tedesco Barbara , Mediani Laura , Asselbergh Bob , Crippa Valeria , Antoniani Francesco , Carra Serena , Poletti Angelo , Timmerman Vincent
Published: November 2019

Three missense mutations targeting the same proline 209 (Pro209) codon in the co-chaperone Bcl2-associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) have been reported to cause distal myopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy or Charcot-Marie-Tooth type 2 neuropathy. Yet, it is unclear whether distinct molecular mechanisms underlie the variable clinical spectrum of the rare patients carrying these three heterozygous Pro209 mutations in BAG3. Here, we studied all three variants and compared them to the BAG3_Glu455Lys mutant, which causes dilated cardiomyopathy. We found that all BAG3_Pro209 mutants have acquired a toxic gain-of-function, which causes these variants to accumulate in the form of insoluble HDAC6- and vimentin-positive aggresomes. The aggresomes formed by mutant BAG3 led to a relocation of other chaperones such as HSPB8 and Hsp70, which, together with BAG3, promote the so-called chaperone-assisted selective autophagy (CASA). As a consequence of their increased aggregation-proneness, mutant BAG3 trapped ubiquitinylated client proteins at the aggresome, preventing their efficient clearance. Combined, these data show that all BAG3_Pro209 mutants, irrespective of their different clinical phenotypes, are characterized by a gain-of-function that contributes to the gradual loss of protein homeostasis.
Simulating isolated populations to identify emerging genetic structure in the absence of selection
Authors: Hosking C , Ogden R , Senn H
Published: November 2019

Conservation efforts are often informed by measures of genetic structure within or between isolated populations. We have established a simulation approach to investigate how isolated or captive populations can display misleading (i.e recently acquired) genetic structure as a result of genetic drift. We utilized a combination of softwares to generate isolated population genetic datasets that allow interrogation of emerging genetic structure under a range of conditions. We have developed a new statistic, S, to describe the extent of differentiation due to genetic drift between two isolated populations within the clustering software, STRUCTURE.

A novel method to infer the effects of genetic drift on structure among isolated populations

Graphical Abstract

SPECIFICATIONS TABLE
Identifying inhibitors of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity using a network topology based approach
Authors: Hari Kishore , Sabuwala Burhanuddin , Subramani Balaram Vishnu , La Porta Caterina , Zapperi Stefano , Font-Clos Francesc , Jolly Mohit Kumar
Published: November 2019

Metastasis is the cause of over 90% of cancer-related deaths. Cancer cells undergoing metastasis switch dynamically between different phenotypes, enabling them to adapt to harsh challenges such as overcoming anoikis and evading immune response. This ability, known as phenotypic plasticity, is crucial for the survival of cancer cells during metastasis, as well as acquiring therapy resistance. Various biochemical networks have been identified to contribute to phenotypic plasticity, but how plasticity emerges from the dynamics of these networks remains elusive. Here, we investigated the dynamics of various regulatory networks implicated in Epithelial-Mesenchymal Plasticity (EMP) - an important arm of phenotypic plasticity - through two different mathematical modeling frameworks: a discrete, parameter-independent framework (Boolean) and a continuous, parameter-agnostic modeling framework (RACIPE). Results from either framework in terms of phenotypic distributions obtained from a given EMP network are qualitatively similar and suggest that these networks are multi-stable and can give rise to phenotypic plasticity. Neither method requires specific kinetic parameters, thus our results emphasize that EMP can emerge through these networks over a wide range of parameter sets, elucidating the importance of network topology in enabling phenotypic plasticity. Furthermore, we show that the ability of exhibit phenotypic plasticity positively correlates with the number of positive feedback loops. These results pave a way towards an unorthodox network topology-based approach to identify crucial links in a given EMP network that can reduce phenotypic plasticity and possibly inhibit metastasis - by reducing the number of positive feedback loops .
Transient Nodal signalling in left precursors coordinates opposed asymmetries shaping the heart loop
Authors: Desgrange Audrey , Garrec Jean-François Le , Bernheim Ségolène , Bønnelykke Tobias Holm , Meilhac Sigolène M.
Published: November 2019

The secreted factor Nodal has been shown to be a major left determinant. Although it is associated with severe congenital heart defects, its role in heart morphogenesis has remained poorly understood. Here, we report that Nodal is transiently active in precursors of the mouse heart tube poles, before the morphological changes of heart looping. In conditional mutants, we show that Nodal is not required to initiate asymmetric morphogenesis. We provide evidence of a heart-specific random generator of asymmetry that is independent of Nodal. Using 3D quantifications and simulations, we demonstrate that Nodal functions as a bias of this mechanism: it is required to amplify and coordinate opposed left-right asymmetries at the heart tube poles, thus generating a robust helical shape. We identify downstream effectors of Nodal signalling, regulating asymmetries in cell proliferation, cell differentiation and extra-cellular matrix composition. Our work provides novel insight into how Nodal regulates asymmetric organogenesis.
A simple sample-changing robot for grazing-incidence X-ray scattering
Authors: Garson Peter , Campello Arthur , Stein Maximilian A. S. , Smilgies Detlef-M.
Published: November 2019

A simple sample-changing robot for combinatorial studies using grazing-incidence X-ray scattering has been designed, built and commissioned. The robot can be conveniently loaded with up to 20 samples. Use of the robot cuts down significantly on the time needed to access and interlock the beamline hutch. The robot was successfully employed by user groups at the CHESS D1 station.
Nonlinear and complementary effects of responsive and proactive market orientation on firms’ competitive advantage
Authors: Osorio Tinoco Fabian F. , Hernández-Espallardo Miguel , Rodriguez-Orejuela Augusto
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to clarify how responsive market orientation (RMO) and proactive market orientation (PMO) create competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

Nonlinear and interaction effects are tested by applying hierarchical regression analysis to a sample of 272 Colombian manufacturing companies.

Findings

The results show that although market orientation promotes the competitive advantage of a business, both approaches – responsive and proactive – exhibit saturation effects and a positive interaction.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is the cross-sectional design and the use of a single source for data collection. It is suggested that future research includes different orientations combined with these two market orientations – responsive and proactive – for achieving competitive advantage. In addition, further studies could replicate this analysis for different environmental conditions.

Originality/value

This paper simultaneously evaluates the nonlinear and complementary effects of RMO and PMO. From a strategic standpoint, it presents an empirical confirmation of the familiarity trap, the failure trap and the positive effects of combining RMO and PMO.
Evaluating after-sales service units by developing inverse network data envelopment analysis model
Authors: Farzipoor Saen Reza , Seyedi Hosseini Nia Seyed Shahrooz
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an inverse network data envelopment analysis (INDEA) model to solve resource allocation problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors estimate inputs’ variations based on outputs so that the efficiencies of decision-making unit under evaluation (DMUo) and other decision-making units (DMUs) are constant.

Findings

The new INDEA model is developed to allocate resources such that inputs are not increased while efficiency scores of all DMUs remain constant. Furthermore, the authors obtain new combinations of inputs and outputs, together with a growth in efficiency score of DMUo such that efficiency scores of other DMUs are not changed. A case study is provided.

Originality/value

This paper proposes INDEA model to estimate inputs (outputs) without changing efficiency scores of DMUs.
A framework for addressing the challenges of business process change during enterprise systems integration
Authors: Javidroozi Vahid , Shah Hanifa , Feldman Gerald
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Enterprise systems integration (ESI) is necessary for today’s business environment to access real-time data and quickly respond to fluctuating market demand. business process change (BPC) as a significant prerequisite of ESI encompasses various challenges that must be tackled by employing success factors, techniques and approaches. The purpose of this paper is to focus on BPC challenges and develop a conceptual framework for addressing BPC challenges in ESI.

Design/methodology/approach

BPC challenges and their success factors were first identified through a literature analysis. Then, the findings from the literature were thematically analysed and qualitatively validated through 35 unstructured interviews for developing the conceptual framework.

Findings

The findings from the literature suggested 17 BPC challenge along with their success factors. During the validation process, 15 BPC challenges were accepted by all interviewees, while most of the respondents disagreed with the two challenges of “consolidation of information system re-engineering with BPR”, and “customization”. Moreover, “risk” was suggested as a BPC challenge by several interviewees. Thus, the study offered a modified list of BPC challenges, which was empirically validated.

Originality/value

The study proposes a conceptual framework for addressing BPC challenges in ESI that enables enterprises to design their systems integration roadmap, based on an understanding of BPC challenges and their success factors, as well as supporting solution providers to develop solutions for effective and efficient BPC. Furthermore, the framework will act as a basis for BPC and developing a similar framework for other related contexts, such as smart cities.
Reengineering of the software development process in a technology services company
Authors: Lopez-Arredondo Laura P. , Perez Cynthia B. , Villavicencio-Navarro Jesus , Mercado Kathya E. , Encinas Martin , Inzunza-Mejia Patricia
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the need of a reengineering of the software development process in a Mexican technology services company. In general, the main risk faced by small- and medium-sized software developers (SMEs) is the inability to meet delivery times or to adjust to project requirements, whether through lack of follow-up on the critical activities of the development process or through an inadequate distribution of workloads among members of the project team.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used to carry out the reengineering of the software development process is Hammer and Champy, which consists of six stages: introduction to the current situation of the company and the need for change; identification of the business processes; selection of the business process to be redesigned; understanding of the process selected; proposal for reengineering the business process selected; and the results of the comparison between the current situation of the process and the proposed reengineering of the process through the use of Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN 2.0).

Findings

Based on the results, the paper shows the importance of the analysis and implementation of the reengineering in a software development company. It describes step-by-step how to apply the methodology of Hammer and Champy in a business process through simulated scenarios, using BPMN 2.0. By carrying out the implementation of the proposed reengineering, the company would therefore save 45.12 percent of costs, 41.17 percent of time, and a better distribution of resources, at the same time guaranteeing the satisfaction of its clients.

Originality/value

The study addresses the current needs of small- and medium-sized software developers, providing a step-by-step guide to the implementation of a process reengineering methodology, performing an analysis and modeling of processes in BPMN 2.0 and providing results through a simulation of the critical process, with the aim to observe the flow of activities and the significant improvements that would be achieved by implementing the reengineering proposal. This simulation schema allows business owners to observe the potential of the changes and to verify the positive impact they would have on the company before beginning to make operational changes in the organization.
How communication climate and organizational identification impact change
Authors: Neill Marlene S. , Men Linjuan Rita , Yue Cen April
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine why and how an open and participative communication climate matters for employee organizational identification and their change-specific responses, specifically employees’ attitudinal and behavioral reactions.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypothesized model, the authors conducted an online survey using a stratified and quota random sample of 1,034 US employees working in diverse industry sectors in June of 2018, with the assistance of a premier global provider of survey services, Survey Sampling International. To test the hypothesized model, structural equation modeling analysis was employed using AMOS 24.0 software.

Findings

An open and participative communication climate directly contributes to employee affective commitment to change and behavioral support. Communication climate featured by openness and participation boosts employee identification with the organization, which leads to positive employee reaction to change. When employees identify with the organization, they tend to believe in the inherent value of the change and are more likely to support the change initiative in action through cooperation and championship.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the study contributes to the change management and communication literature by focusing on the role of communication climate in inducing employee reaction to organizational change. Practically, the study offers insights for change managers, internal communication professionals and organizational leaders. Organizational leaders need to be open, create a trusting atmosphere and actively involve employees in the decision-making process. Organizational leaders and communicators should also strive to boost employee identification with the organization, especially during change.
Corporate governance andShariahnon-compliant risk in Islamic banks: evidence from Southeast Asia
Authors: Basiruddin Rohaida , Ahmed Habib
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between corporate governance andShariahnon-compliant risk (SNCR) that is unique for Islamic banks. The study examines the roles ofShariahcommittee along with the board of directors in mitigating SNCR.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper empirically investigates the implications of characteristics of board of directors andShariahcommittee on the SNCR by using a sample of 29 full-fledge Islamic banks from Malaysia and Indonesia over the period 2007-2017. All data is hand collected from the Islamic banks' annual reports with the exception of country-level data collected from the World Bank database.

Findings

The results show that banks with a smaller board size and higher proportion of independent board members are likely to have lower SNCR. The findings also indicate that the financial expertise and higher frequency ofShariahcommittee meetings reduces the SNCR. Collectively, the analysis shows that banks with strong corporate governance environments reduce SNCR.

Practical implications

The findings of the study shed light on the relationship between corporate governance practice,Shariahcommittee characteristics and SNCR. The results can be used by different stakeholders such as policymakers, boards of directors and senior management of Islamic banks to mitigate SNCR.

Originality/value

This study extends the literature on corporate governance and risk-taking by including additional dimensions of governance and risk type. The corporate governance mechanism at the board level is complemented by including theShariahcommittee characteristics and SNCR which is relevant to Islamic financial institutions is examined.
A rejoinder on managerial discretion: Andersen (2017) vs Haj Youssef and Teng (2019)
Authors: Andersen Jon Aarum
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate the efforts of Hay Youssef and Tang (2019) to reaffirm the importance of managerial discretion is unsuccessful.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical frameworks from traditional and recent literature on the concept of managerial discretion are related to corporate governance scholarship.

Findings

There are in fact no studies on managerial discretion based on explicit theoretical and empirical definitions and thus no studies published which have measured the degrees of managers’ discretion. The conclusion is that the inability to define the notion of managerial discretion is tantamount to the inability to research it.

Practical implications

Research on managerial discretion does not provide any advice to owners and directors of boards on granting top executives a high or a low degree of discretion.

Originality/value

This paper reaffirms the conclusion of Andersen (2017) that corporate governance scholarship will improve if it abandons the concept of managerial discretion.
Optimal design of RAM cell using novel 2:1 multiplexer in QCA technology
Authors: Majeed Ali H. , Alkaldy Esam , Zainal Mohd Shamian , Navi Keivan , Nor Danial
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Quantum-dot cellular automata (QCA) has attracted computer scientists as new emerging nanotechnology for replacement the current CMOS technology because it has unique characteristics such as high frequency, extremely small feature size and low power consumption. The main building blocks in QCA are the majority gate and inverter so any Boolean function can be represented using these gates. Many important circuits were the target for implemented in this technology in an optimal form, such as random-access memory (RAM) cell. QCA-RAM cells were introduced in literature with different forms but most of them are not optimized enough. This paper aims to demonstrate QCA inherent capabilities that can facilitate the design of many important gates such as the XOR gate and multiplexer (MUX) without following any Boolean function to get an optimum design in terms of complexity and delay.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a novel structure of QCA-MUX in an optimal form will be used to design two unique structures of a RAM cell. The proposed RAM cells are the lowest cost required compared with different counterparts. The presented RAM cells used a new approach that follows the new suggested block diagram. The presented circuits are simulated and tested with QCADesigner and QCAPro tools.

Findings

The comparison of the proposed circuits with the previously reported in the literature show noticeable improvements in speed, area, and the number of cells. The cost function analysis results for the proposed RAM cells show significant improvement compared to older circuits.

Originality/value

A novel structure of QCA-MUX in an optimal form will be used to design two unique structures of a RAM cell.
Stability and development of user innovation strategies for video game producers
Authors: Koch Stefan , Artmayr Philipp
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on user innovation strategies and their stability in the video game industry. The main research questions addressed are whether a significant portion of video game companies employ user innovation, and how these strategies are showing signs of success and evolve over time.

Design/methodology/approach

From various online data sources, information was extracted for 2,003 video game companies and 3,923 video games and analyzed using quantitative statistical approaches.

Findings

The analysed data show that a significant proportion of video game companies rely on user innovation-related strategies. If user innovation possibilities are provided, user ratings also tend to be higher. Over time, this strategy of enabling user innovation becomes more prevalent, but companies do also abandon such strategies or use them selectively. Especially, never employing them is associated with decreased company lifespan.

Originality/value

This is the first paper providing a large-scale insight into the evolution of user innovation strategies in an industry.
Mobile application supported urban-township e-grocery distribution
Authors: Mkansi Marcia , de Leeuw Sander , Amosun Olatoye
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a mobile application supported townshipand urban e-grocery distribution models that uses a software application (app) to bridge the infrastructural barriers, costs and complexities associated with e-grocery delivery operations in rural township areas.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative multi-case approach and semi-structured interviews, the study explored distribution practices of eight national emerging e-grocery retail businesses to demonstrate how mobile applications can facilitate South African urban and township e-grocery delivery models.

Findings

The study reveals how the need to scale the use of new mobile application innovations fuels value-added services that power new e-grocery distribution models. Of interest is how the application aggregates demand rapidly, respond to demand within a short lead time and how e-grocers use competitors’ stores as their fulfilment centres. The use of apps reveals a slow transformation of society towards an inclusive model that integrates different types of workers in an informal context.

Practical implications

The mobile application value-added service business model offers a new wave of scaling e-grocery retail to rural and township areas constrained by technological, economic and road infrastructure. The apps transcend e-grocery barriers and enables small businesses with limited resources to leverage e-grocery market opportunities that are unimaginable in townships and rural areas.

Originality/value

The innovative mobile platform-base model offers emerging contextual insight of a pull e-grocery distribution model that demonstrates the supply chain innovations for addressing under-resource and under-developed logistics infrastructure.
Effect of fish scale texture on friction performance for reciprocating pair with high velocity
Authors: Quan Song , Yong Guo , Jun Gong , Liu Xuedong , Yongping Jin , Shuyi Yang
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to study the frictional performance of reciprocating pair with high velocity by using hydrodynamic lubrication principle and fish scale textured piston model.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the idea of function characteristic approximation and coordinate change, a mathematical representation model of imitating fish scale texture pit section is established. According to the principle of dynamic pressure lubrication of the textured fluid, a three-dimensional numerical model of flow field for fish scale texture is established without considering cavitation. Numerical analysis of the model carp scale texture unit by orthogonal experimental design and FLUENT software is carried out.

Findings

Effects of fish scale pit texture on friction properties for a reciprocating pair piston surface with high velocity (impact piston) are acquired. Effects of texture characterization parameters and flow rate on the surface friction performance for impact piston are found. Effects of different characteristic parameters combination of imitating fish scale texture on friction performance for impact piston surface are obtained.

Originality/value

The model is an effective tool to study the friction and wear of reciprocating pair with high velocity. The effects of fish scale textured piston pair supply a theory lead to design the reciprocating pair with better friction performance.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-09-2019-0398
Value co-destruction: a typology of resource misintegration manifestations
Authors: Laud Gaurangi , Bove Liliana , Ranaweera Chatura , Leo Wei Wei Cheryl , Sweeney Jill , Smith Sandra
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Actors who participate in co-created service experiences typically assume that they will experience improved well-being. However, a growing body of literature demonstrates that the reverse is also likely to be true, with one or more actors experiencing value co-destruction (VCD), rather than value co-creation, in the service system. Building on the notion of resource misintegration as a trigger of the VCD process, this paper offers a typology of resource misintegration manifestations and to present a dynamic conceptualization of the VCD process.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic, iterative VCD literature review was conducted with a priori aims to uncover the manifestations of resource misintegration and illustrate its connection to VCD for an actor or actors.

Findings

Ten distinct manifestations of resource misintegration are identified that provide evidence or an early warning sign of the potential for negative well-being for one or more actors in the service system. Furthermore, a dynamic framework illustrates how an affected actor uses proactive and reactive coping and support resources to prevent VCD or restore well-being.

Originality/value

The study presents a typology of manifestations of resource misintegration that signal or warn of the potential for VCD, thus providing an opportunity to prevent or curtail the VCD process.
Calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate exhibit different immunomodulatory effects on imiquimod‐induced murine psoriasiform dermatitis
Authors: Takeoka Shintaro , Shimizu Teruo , Kamata Masahiro , Hau Carren Sy , Fukaya Saki , Hayashi Kotaro , Fukuyasu Atsuko , Tanaka Takamitsu , Ishikawa Takeko , Ohnishi Takamitsu , Tada Yayoi
Published: November 2019

Psoriasis is a T‐helper (Th)1/Th17‐mediated, chronic inflammatory dermatitis that is commonly treated with topical corticosteroids and vitamin D3 analogs. The combination of a topical corticosteroid and vitamin D3 analog showed superior efficacy to each alone in clinical trials; however, the mechanisms by which the topical corticosteroid and vitamin D3 analog exert their effects on lesional skin in combination and each alone remain unknown. In this study, we examined the effects of combined calcipotriol (Cal)/betamethasone dipropionate (BD) ointment on psoriasis in vivo, utilizing imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced murine psoriasiform skin inflammation, compared with each alone. Vehicle, Cal/BD, Cal or BD was applied on the shaved back skin for 3 consecutive days. Then, IMQ was applied for 6 consecutive days. Twenty‐four hours after the last IMQ treatment, the murine skin was evaluated clinically and pathologically. mRNA expressions were examined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. All ointments alleviated IMQ‐induced psoriasiform skin inflammation clinically in comparison with vehicle application. Cal/BD suppressed mRNA expressions of cytokines involved in psoriasis pathogenesis such as interleukin (IL)‐17A and IL‐22 efficiently. Cal alone induced IL‐10 expression, whereas BD alone reduced IL‐6 mRNA expression and the number of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3‐positive cells in lesional skin. Our study revealed that Cal and BD have different effects on IMQ‐induced psoriasiform skin. Some of the immune effects of Cal and BD may be additive or synergistic, which may account for the superior clinical efficacy of their combination.
Estimation of the seismic wavelet through homomorphic deconvolution and well log data: application on well‐to‐seismic tie procedure
Authors: de Macedo Isadora A.S. , de Figueiredo Jose Jadsom S. , de Sousa Matias C. , Nascimento Murillo J.S.
Published: November 2019

Wavelet estimation and well‐tie procedures are important tasks in seismic processing and interpretation. Deconvolutional statistical methods to estimate the proper wavelet, in general, are based on the assumptions of the classical convolutional model, which implies a random process reflectivity and a minimum‐phase wavelet. The homomorphic deconvolution, however, does not take these premises into account. In this work, we propose an approach to estimate the seismic wavelet using the advantages of the homomorphic deconvolution and the deterministic estimation of the wavelet, which uses both seismic and well log data. The feasibility of this approach is verified on well‐to‐seismic tie from a real data set from Viking Graben Field, North Sea, Norway. The results show that the wavelet estimated through this methodology produced a higher quality well tie when compared to methods of estimation of the wavelet that consider the classical assumptions of the convolutional model.
Linking species‐level network metrics to flower traits and plant fitness
Authors: Lázaro Amparo , Gómez‐Martínez Carmelo , Alomar David , González‐Estévez Miguel A. , Traveset Anna
Published: November 2019

Theoretical models indicate that the structure of plant–pollinator networks has important implications for the reproduction and survival of species. However, despite the growing information on the mechanisms underlying such a structure, it is still difficult to predict the functional consequences of species’ structural positions in these networks. From the plant perspective, species position and roles in pollination networks might be related to traits describing flower attractiveness, availability and dependence on pollinators. In turn, both network metrics and plant traits might influence plant species fitness.

During two field seasons, we collected data from the 23 most abundant plant species in a rich coastal community, to evaluate the association between population and floral traits (floral abundance at population level and flowers per individual, flower shape and size, flowering length, nectar volume, pollinator dependence), species‐level network metrics (linkage level, specialization –d′–, weighted closeness centrality, network roles related to modularity) and plant fitness (seeds/flower, seed weight).

Flowering length, flower size, flower abundance and pollinator dependence were positively related to greater generalization, as measured by various indices. More abundant species and those with larger flowers showed higher linkage levels (i.e. higher number of pollinator species), whereas longer flowering periods were negatively related to d′ and positively related to closeness centrality and important roles in the network. Likewise, plants species more dependent on pollinators occupied more central positions in the network. Furthermore, centrality in the networks was significantly associated with plant fitness. Specifically, central species in the network produced more and heavier seeds than the others. However, other plant traits, such as flower size and pollinator dependence had additional direct effects on seed production.

Synthesis. Our study highlights how population and floral traits define the positions and roles of species structuring the pollination communities. Moreover, the relationships between network metrics and plant reproduction indicate, for the first time, the functional implications of these structural positions at the interspecific level of community assembly.
Development of vacuum‐dried probiotic milk powder with Bacillus coagulans
Authors: Haldar Lopamudra , Gandhi D N
Published: November 2019

The present study explored the possibilities of using Bacillus coagulans as a probiotic culture in vacuum‐dried milk powder. The operational drying temperature at 63 ± 2 °C under 0.7 kg/cm2 pressure emerged as the best temperature at which to prepare dried milk powder within 4.5 h with a mean (±SEM) Bacillus coagulans B37 spore count of 8.78 ± 0.03 log cfu/g and moisture content of 4.82 ± 0.12%. The total spore counts in vacuum‐dried milk powder did not change (P > 0.10) at storage temperatures of 7 °C, 37 °C or 45 °C over a three‐month period.
The effect of delayed umbilical cord clamping on cord blood gas analysis in vaginal and caesarean‐delivered term newborns without fetal distress: a prospective observational study
Authors: Giovannini N , Crippa BL , Denaro E , Raffaeli G , Cortesi V , Consonni D , Cetera GE , Parazzini F , Ferrazzi E , Mosca F , Ghirardello S
Published: November 2019

Objective

To determine variations in cord blood gas (CBG) parameters after 3‐minute delayed cord clamping (DCC) in vaginal deliveries (VDs) and caesarean deliveries (CDs) at term without fetal distress.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

University hospital.

Sample

CBG from 97 VDs and 124 CDs without fetal distress.

Methods

Comparison of paired arterial–venous CBG parameters drawn at birth from the unclamped cord and after 3‐minutes DCC for VDs and CDs.

Main outcome measures

Base excess, bicarbonate, haematocrit and haemoglobin from both arterial and venous cord blood, lactate, neonatal outcomes, partial pressure of oxygen (pO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2), pH, and postpartum haemorrhage.

Results

Arterial cord blood pH, bicarbonate (, mmol/l), and base excess (BE, mmol/l) decreased significantly after 3‐minute DCC both in VDs (pH = 7.23 versus 7.27; P < 0.001;  = 23.3 versus 24.3; P = 0.004; BE = −5.1 versus −2.9; P < 0.001) and CDs (pH = 7.28 versus 7.34; P < 0.001;  = 26.2 versus 27.2; P < 0.001; BE = −1.5 versus 0.7; P < 0.001). After 3‐minute DCC, pCO2 increased in CDs only (57 versus 51; P < 0.001), whereas lactate increased more in CDs compared with VDs (lactate, +1.1 [0.9, 1.45] versus +0.5 [−0.65, 2.35]; P = 0.01). Postpartum maternal haemorrhage, neonatal maximum bilirubin concentration, and need for phototherapy were similar between the two groups. Newborns born by CD more frequently required postnatal clinical monitoring or admission to a neonatal intensive care unit.

Conclusions

After 3‐minute DCC, the acid–base status shifted towards mixed acidosis in CDs and prevalent metabolic acidosis in VDs. CDs were associated with a more pronounced increase in arterial lactate, compared with VDs.

Tweetable abstract

By 3‐minute DCC, acid–base status shifts towards mixed and metabolic acidosis in caesarean and vaginal delivery, respectively.
Genomic divergences between the two polyphagous Spodoptera relatives provide cues for successful invasion of the fall armyworm
Authors: Cui Yong , Ren Yan‐Dong , Lyu Mo , Zheng Si‐Chun , Feng Qi‐Li , Xiang Hui
Published: November 2019

The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda recently invaded China, ravaging crops in many provinces. Deciphering the possible genetic basics for its successful invasion is critical for innovative and specific control for this gluttonous pest. Here we generated comparative genomic analyses between S. frugiperda and its native relative, S. litura, which differs in host preference, locomotivity and production behavior. We demonstrated that S. frugiperda genes are enriched in taste sensory perception and nervous system, obviously different from those of S. litura. Potential host adaptation genes showed generally an elevated ratio of non‐synonymous substitution rate to synonymous substitution rate, suggesting a faster evolution during the divergence of the two species. Focusing on these sets of genes, we identified 23 genes being under positive selection in S. frugiperda. Among them are two notable genes involved in sensory perception, gustatory receptor (GR) and an acetaldehyde oxidase, which are important for host detection in invasion and expansion processes. Another two genes are mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate synthase β subunit and ferritin heavy chain, which may be associated with the enhanced locomotivity and resistance, which fascinated long‐distance migration needed for invasion and rapid expansion. Another interesting gene is chorion protein, in which positive selection sites in S. frugiperda were found and a replacement in one site is predicted to affect the protein function, which might be associated with competent reproductivity in S. frugiperda to ensure genetic resources for expansion.
Effect of Processing Conditions, Biochemical Properties, and Microstructure on Tofu Production from Yellow Field Peas (Pisum sativum)
Authors: DePalma Kevin , Smith Brennan , McDonald Armando G.
Published: November 2019

Tofu, made by coagulating soy milk, is a nutritious food originating in China and is widely consumed globally. Due to allergenicity and consumer perceptions of genetically modified organisms, consumer demand for soy alternatives is increasing. In this study, tofu was made from yellow split peas (Pisum sativum). Effects of pasteurization, fat addition, and curd disruption followed by repressing were studied. Here, disruption was not a chemical disruption, rather a physical disruption of protein curds. Pasteurization alone led to increased uptake of water and nonviable tofus. Disrupted samples became firmer with pasteurization. Texture profile analysis indicated that disruption followed by pasteurization improved hardness from approximately 175 g force from the control, to approximately 325 g force for disrupted + pasteurizated samples without fat addition. A similar trend was observed for samples with fat added, where hardness increased from approximately 50 g force to approximately 75 g force. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy of the amide I region showed that an increase of β‐sheet structures led to increased hardness. The shifts in β‐sheet structures followed the same trends as surface hydrophobicity. Surface hydrophobicity decreased with pasteurization and increased with disruption. Molecular weight analysis showed that shear (from disruption) and heat separately degraded the proteins into smaller polypeptides exposing hydrophobic interiors. Changes to biochemical parameters, such as protein secondary structure and exposure of protein hydrophobic regions, allowed for tofu to be made from yellow field peas.

Practical Application

This study provides critical information and a means to produce pea‐based soy‐free tofu.
Comparison of Lipids Extracted by Different Methods from Chinese Mitten Crab (Eriocheir sinensis) Hepatopancreas
Authors: Wang Fengya , Lin Wei , Lv Shun , Jiang Shaotong , Lin Lin , Lu Jianfeng
Published: November 2019

The effects of four different extraction methods (Folch, Soxhlet, two‐step, and enzyme‐assisted aqueous extraction) on the yields, lipid class, fatty acids (FAs) composition, minor components (including carotenoid, cholesterol), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values of lipids in the hepatopancreas of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) were investigated. The C16:0, C18:1, and C18:2 were identified to be the dominant FAs in crab lipids, and the FAs were present in the form of triglycerides. The Soxhlet and enzyme‐assisted extraction were more suitable for crab lipids extraction, showing higher extraction rates and oxidative stability. Especially, the lipid extracted by enzyme‐assisted extraction has high carotenoids content. The components of crab lipids extracted by enzyme‐assisted aqueous extraction were further identified using untargeted metabolomics methods. The polyunsaturated fatty acid, sterols, amino acids, products of lipid β‐oxidation and ATP degradation, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, and astaxanthin were founded in crab oil.

Practical Application

The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is a popular aquatic food in China. The hepatopancreas is the major lipid storage organ of crab, and the distinctive flavor of crab is mainly from it. To compare the different extraction methods on yield, composition and properties of crab lipids can be helpful for lipids production from crab hepatopancreas. Meanwhile, the crab hepatopancreas lipids are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and astaxanthin, and have potential to be as a functional component and a crab flavor additive in food industry.
Possible Sugar and Calorie Reduction by Visual Cues: A Case of Syrup Added to Brewed Coffee
Authors: Chonpracha Pitchayapat , Gao Yupeng , Tuuri Georgianna , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: November 2019

Visual cues have been reported to influence taste and flavor perceptions. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of visual cues (color and viscosity) of syrups on expected sweetness and bitterness perception (Study I), and on sweetness perception and sweetness liking of brewed coffee after syrup had been added, and the amount of syrups to be added to brewed coffee (Study II). For Study I, the visual stimuli were developed by varying viscosity (80, 800, and 8000 cP) and yellow index (YI) (0.04, 0.08, 0.16, and 0.32), resulting in 12 syrups with 20 degrees Brix. Visual observations indicated greater expected sweetness perceptions of syrups when YI and viscosity were increased. However, YI, but not viscosity, affected expected bitterness perceptions. Increasing YI raised the frequency (%) of “too sweet” perceptions of syrups on a JAR scale. For Study II, only four syrups (LC1, LC2, HC1, HC2; L = viscosity, 80 cP, H = 8,000 cP; C1 = YI 0.04, C2 = YI 0.32) were studied. The visual perception affected consumers’ behaviors concerning the amount of syrup added to brewed coffee. Consumers added the greatest volume of syrups with the lowest viscosity and YI (LC1), while the lowest volume of syrups with the highest viscosity and YI (HC2). There were no significant differences in sweetness liking of brewed coffees added with LC1, LC2, and/or HC1 syrups. This study indicated that visual cues could potentially intensify the perceived sweetness of syrups, and reduced the volume of syrup added to brewed coffee and consequently calories consumed.

Practical Application

Sensory visual cues associated with a syrup can be used to reduce the volume consumed and thereby promote reduced consumption of calories while maintaining sensory acceptability. Increasing a syrup's viscosity and yellow/brown color intensity enhanced the expectation of sweetness and resulted in less volume of syrup added to brewed coffee. This research demonstrated that the impact of visual cues not only influenced expectation and sensory acceptability but also impacted the cognitive process of eating. This strategy could provide a way to promote a sustainable reduction in sugar and, hence, calorie consumption without compromising sensory liking.
Extra virgin olive oil improves synaptic activity, short‐term plasticity, memory, and neuropathology in a tauopathy model
Authors: Lauretti Elisabetta , Nenov Miroslav , Dincer Ozlem , Iuliano Luigi , Praticò Domenico
Published: November 2019

In recent years, increasing evidence has accumulated supporting the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Previous studies showed that EVOO supplementation improves Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐like amyloidotic phenotype of transgenic mice. However, while much attention has been focused on EVOO‐mediated modulation of Aβ processing, its direct influence on tau metabolism in vivo and synaptic function is still poorly characterized. In this study, we investigated the effect of chronic supplementation of EVOO on the phenotype of a relevant mouse model of tauopathy, human transgenic tau mice (hTau). Starting at 6 months of age, hTau mice were fed chow diet supplemented with EVOO or vehicle for additional 6 months, and then the effect on their phenotype was assessed. At the end of the treatment, compared with control mice receiving EVOO displayed improved memory and cognition which was associated with increased basal synaptic activity and short‐term plasticity. This effect was accompanied by an upregulation of complexin 1, a key presynaptic protein. Moreover, EVOO treatment resulted in a significant reduction of tau oligomers and phosphorylated tau at specific epitopes. Our findings demonstrate that EVOO directly improves synaptic activity, short‐term plasticity, and memory while decreasing tau neuropathology in the hTau mice. These results strengthen the healthy benefits of EVOO and further support the therapeutic potential of this natural product not only for AD but also for primary tauopathies.
The role of Chinese economic variables on Australian and New Zealand equity returns
Authors: Ge Yongbo , Wu Ji , Zhang Jing , Zou Liping
Published: November 2019

This study investigates the explanatory power of Chinese economic variables on Australian and New Zealand equity returns. Results suggest that Chinese economic variables have significant explanatory power for both market‐level and industry‐level portfolio returns. Our results are robust when using the principal component analysis (PCA) approach. We also find the predictive power is stronger for the post‐FTA period. In addition, the out‐of‐sample analysis confirms our previous results, suggesting that Chinese economic variables contain incremental information when estimating Australian and New Zealand equity market returns. We believe our findings have important implications for investors and policymakers in both countries.
Machine learning mortality classification in clinical documentation with increased accuracy in visual‐based analyses
Authors: Slattery Susan M. , Knight Daniel C. , Weese‐Mayer Debra E. , Grobman William A. , Downey Doug C. , Murthy Karna
Published: November 2019

Aim

The role of machine learning on clinical documentation for predictive outcomes remains undefined. We aimed to compare three neural networks on inpatient providers’ notes to predict mortality in neonatal hypoxic‐ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE).

Methods

Using Children's Hospitals Neonatal Database, non‐anomalous neonates with HIE treated with therapeutic hypothermia were identified at a single‐centre. Data were linked with the initial seven days of documentation. Exposures were derived using the databases and applying convolutional and two recurrent neural networks. The primary outcome was mortality. The predictive accuracy and performance measures for models were determined.

Results

The cohort included 52 eligible infants. Most infants survived (n = 36, 69%) and 23 had severe HIE (44%). Neural networks performed above baseline and differed in their median accuracy for predicting mortality (P = .0001): recurrent models with long short‐term memory 69% (25th, 75th percentile 65, 73%) and gated‐recurrent model units 65% (62, 69%) and convolutional 72% (64, 96%). Convolutional networks’ median specificity was 81% (72, 97%).

Conclusion

The neural network models demonstrated fundamental validity in predicting mortality using inpatient provider documentation. Convolutional models had high specificity for (excluding) mortality in neonatal HIE. These findings provide a platform for future model training and ultimately tool development to assist clinicians in patient assessments and risk stratifications.