bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Pipeline ‘MetaGaAP-Py’ for the Analysis of Quasispecies and Non-Model Microbial Populations using Ultra-Deep ‘Meta-barcode’ Sequencing
Authors: Noune Christopher , Hauxwell Caroline
Published: August 2017

A pipeline developed to establish sequence identity and estimate abundance of non-model organisms (such as viral quasispecies) using customized ultra-deep sequence ‘meta-barcodes’ has been modified to improve performance by re-development in the Python programming language. Redundant packages were removed and new features added. RAM and storage usage have been optimized to facilitate the computational speeds though coding optimizations and improved cross-platform compatibility. However, computational limits restrict the approach to barcodes spanning a maximum of 30 polymorphisms. The modified pipeline, MetaGaAP-Py, is available for download here:https://github.com/CNoune/IMG_pipelines
Correlated seed failure as an environmental veto to synchronize reproduction of masting plants
Authors: Bogdziewicz Michał , Steele Michael A. , Marino Shealyn , Crone Elizabeth E.
Published: August 2017

Highly variable, synchronized seed production, called masting, is a widespread reproductive strategy in plants. Resource dynamics, pollination success, and, as described here, environmental veto, are possible proximate mechanisms of masting. We extended the resource budget model of masting with correlated and uncorrelated reproductive failure, and ran this model across its parameters space. Next, we parametrized the model based on a 16-year seed production data for red (Quercus rubra) and white (Q. alba) oaks. Simulations showed that resource dynamics and reproduction failure produce masting even in the absence of pollen coupling. In concordance, in both species, among-year variation in resource gain and correlated reproductive failure were necessary and sufficient to produce masting. Environmental variation is a form of reproduction failure caused by environmental veto that may drive large-scale synchronization without density-dependent pollen limitation. Reproductive-inhibiting weather events are prevalent in ecosystems, suggesting that these described mechanisms likely operate in many masting systems.
Embryonic lethality in mice lacking Trim59 due to impaired gastrulation development
Authors: Su Xiaomin , Wu Chenglei , Ye Xiaoying , Zeng Ming , Zhang Zhujun , Che Yongzhe , Zhang Yuan , Liu Lin , Lin Yushuang , Yang Rongcun
Published: August 2017

TRIM family members have been implicated in a variety of biological processes such as differentiation and development. We here found that Trim59 plays a critical role in early embryo development from blastocyst stage to gastrula. There existed delayed development and empty yolk sacs from embryonic day (E) 8.5 inTrim59-/- embryos. No viableTrim59-/- embryos were observed beyond E9.5. Trim59 deficiency affected primary germ layer formation at the beginning of gastrulation. InTrim59-/- embryos at E6.5 and E7.5, the expression of primary germ layer formation associated genes includingBrachyury,lefty2,Cer1,Otx2,Wnt3andBMP4was reduced. Homozygous mutant embryonic epiblast was contracted and the mesoderm was absent. Trim59 could interact with actin and myosin associated proteins. Trim59 deficiency disturbed F-actin polymerization during inner cell mass differentiation. Trim59 mediated polymerization of F-actin was via WASH K63-linked ubiquitination. Thus, Trim59 may be a critical regulator for early embryo development from blastocyst stage to gastrula through modulating F-actin assembly.
Spatial vision by macaque midbrain
Authors: Chen Chih-Yang , Sonnenberg Lukas , Weller Simone , Witschel Thede , Hafed Ziad M.
Published: August 2017

Visual brain areas exhibit tuning characteristics that are well suited for image statistics present in our natural environment. However, visual sensation is an active process, and if there are any brain areas that ought to be particularly 'in tune' with natural scene statistics, it would be sensory-motor areas critical for guiding behavior. Here we found that the primate superior colliculus, a structure instrumental for rapid visual exploration with saccades, detects low spatial frequencies, which are the most prevalent in natural scenes, much more rapidly than high spatial frequencies. Importantly, this accelerated detection happens independently of whether a neuron is more or less sensitive to low spatial frequencies to begin with. At the population level, the superior colliculus additionally over-represents low spatial frequencies in neural response sensitivity, even at near-foveal eccentricities. Thus, the superior colliculus possesses both temporal and response gain mechanisms for efficient gaze realignment in low-spatial-frequency dominated natural environments.
Decomposing the neural pathways mediating value-based choice
Authors: Koscik Timothy R. , Man Vincent , Jahn Andrew , Lee Christina H. , Cunningham William A.
Published: August 2017

Understanding the neural implementation of value-based choice has been an important focus of neuroscience for several decades. Although a consensus has emerged regarding the brain regions involved, disagreement persists regarding precise regional functions and how value information flows between value-based choice regions.

In the current study, we isolate neural activity related to decision-making using a gambling task where expected gains and losses are dissociated from the received outcomes of choices. We apply multilevel modelling and mediation analysis to formally test whether brain regions identified as part of the value-based choice network mediate between perceptions of expected value and choices to take or pass a gamble.

A critical function in decision-making is accruing and representing value information to drive choice. Several regions have been assigned this role, including ventromedial prefrontal (vmPFC) and posterior parietal cortex (PPC), and the ventral striatum (VStr). The implied chain of events is one where regions that support the process of gathering relevant information mediate the relationship between choice and representations of value in other brain regions. Here, we formally test whether distinct brain regions express interregional mediation consistent with this chain of processes.

We observe that activity in vmPFC does not predict choice, but rather is highly associated with outcome evaluation. By contrast, both PPC and VStr (bilaterally) mediate between expected value and choice. Interregional mediation analyses reveal that VStr fully mediates between PPC and choice. Together these results suggest that VStr, and not vmPFC nor PPC, functions as an important driver of late stage choice.

Significance Statement

Making choices that maximize gain and minimize loss is critical for success. Our paradigm and analytic approach allowed isolation of choice-related neural signals from outcome-related signals. The vmPFC is involved at outcome rather than at choice. Isolating choice-related neural activity, we formally demonstrate that VStr and PPC mediate between expected value and choice. Our approach adds significant innovation by using generalized multilevel modelling to predict behavior with concurrent neural activity and formally testing the fully mediated pathway from stimulus through neural activity to behavior. Applying interregional multilevel mediation analysis, we demonstrate that ventral striatum comprises a final, critical step in processing value-based choice, mediating the relationship between value representation and choice.
Differences in the genetic control of early egg development and reproduction betweenC. elegansand its parthenogenetic relativeD. coronatus
Authors: Kraus Christopher , Schiffer Philipp H. , Kagoshima Hiroshi , Hiraki Hideaki , Vogt Theresa , Kroiher Michael , Kohara Yuji , Schierenberg Einhard
Published: August 2017

Background

The free-living nematodeDiploscapter coronatusis the closest known relative ofC. eleganswith parthenogenetic reproduction. It shows several developmental idiosyncracies, for example concerning the control of meiosis and embryonic axis formation [1]. Our recent genome analysis [2] provided some support for the view thatD. coronatusis a product of interspecies hybridization. Here we present additional data towards this assumption. Based on genomic and transcriptomic data we try to better understand the molecular basis of developmental idiosyncrasies in this species in an evolutionary context by comparison with selected other nematodes.

Results

In a genomic comparison betweenD. coronatus,C. elegans, other representatives of the genusCaenorhabditisand the more distantly relatedPristionchus pacificusandPanagrellus redivivus, certain genes required for normal embryogenesis inC. eleganswere found to be restricted to the genusCaenorhabditis.The mRNA content of earlyD. coronatusembryos was sequenced and compared with similar stages inC. elegansandAscaris suum.We identified 350 gene families transcribed in the early embryo ofD. coronatusbut not in the other two nematodes. Looking at individual genes transcribed early inD. coronatusbut not inC. elegansandA. suumwe found that orthologs of most of these are present in the genomes of the latter species as well, suggesting heterochronic shifts with respect to expression behavior. Considerable divergence between alleles lends further support to the view thatD. coronatusmay be the result of an interspecies hybridization. Expression analysis of early acting single copy genes yield no indication for silencing of one parental genome.

Conclusions

Our comparative cellular and molecular studies support the view that the genusCaenorhabditisdiffers considerably from the other studied nematodes in its control of development and reproduction. The easy-to-culture parthenogeneticD. coronatus, with its high quality draft genome and only a single chromosome when haploid, offers many new starting points on the cellular, molecular, and genomic level to better understand alternative routes of nematode development and reproduction.
Adiposity QTLAdip20decomposes into at least four loci when dissected using congenic strains
Authors: Lin Cailu , Fesi Brad D. , Marquis Michael , Bosak Natalia P. , Lysenko Anna , Koshnevisan Mohammed Amin , Duke Fujiko F. , Theodorides Maria L. , Nelson Theodore M. , McDaniel Amanda H. , Avigdor Mauricio , Arayata Charles J. , Shaw Lauren , Bachmanov Alexander A. , Reed Danielle R.
Published: August 2017

An average mouse in midlife weighs between 25 and 30 g, with about a gram of tissue in the largest adipose depot (gonadal), and the weight of this depot differs between inbred strains. Specifically, C57BL/6ByJ mice have heavier gonadal depots on average than do 129P3/J mice. To understand the genetic contributions to this trait, we mapped several quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for gonadal depot weight in an F2intercross population. Our goal here was to fine-map one of these QTLs,Adip20(formerlyAdip5), on mouse chromosome 9. To that end, we analyzed the weight of the gonadal adipose depot from newly created congenic strains. Results from the sequential comparison method indicated at least four rather than one QTL; two of the QTLs were less than 0.5 Mb apart, with opposing directions of allelic effect. Different types of evidence (missense and regulatory genetic variation, human adiposity/body mass index orthologues, and differential gene expression) implicated numerous candidate genes from the four QTL regions. These results highlight the value of mouse congenic strains and the value of this sequential method to dissect challenging genetic architecture.
Patterns of Vietnamese buying behaviors on luxury branded products
Authors: Tuu Ho Huy , Olsen Svein Ottar , Cong Le Chi
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss and test the combined effects of openness to experience (OE) and power, and the moderator effects of social norms (SN) and perceived resources on the choice of luxury attributes for branded products in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a self-administered survey data of 207 Vietnamese consumers, a structural equation modeling approach for moderator analysis with latent constructs is used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

OE and power have both direct and interactive positive influences on the choice of luxury product attributes. In particular, the effect of OE is weakened by the negative moderator effect of SN, but the effect of power is strengthened by the positive moderator effect of perceived resources. The inclusion of interactions increases the explained variance of the choice of luxury product attributes from 24.8 to 35.8 percent.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies would benefit to investigate other personality traits (e.g. extroversion or agreeableness), personal values (e.g. achievement), SN (e.g. descriptive norms) and resources (e.g. time).

Practical implications

The study findings suggest that brand managers should attend the how individual and social factors interacts in explaining the choice of luxury product attributes.

Originality/value

This study is the first discussing, testing and finding empirical evidence supporting the combined effects of OE and power on the choice of luxury product attributes as well as moderator effects in these relationships.
Factors affecting consumers’ intention to purchase counterfeit product
Authors: Quoquab Farzana , Pahlevan Sara , Mohammad Jihad , Thurasamy Ramayah
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Most of the past studies have considered social and personal factors in relation to counterfeit product purchase intention. However, there is a dearth of research that linked ethical aspects with such kind of product purchase intention. Considering this gap, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the direct as well as indirect effect of ethical aspects on the attitude of consumers’ counterfeit product purchase in the Malaysian market.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 737 questionnaires were distributed in China Town, Low Yat Plaza, as well as a few “pasar malam” (night markets), which yielded 400 completed usable responses. Partial Least Square Smart PLS software and SPSS were utilised in order to analyse the data.

Findings

The results revealed that the ethical aspect in term of religiosity, ethical concern, and perception of lawfulness directly and indirectly affect consumers’ behavioural intention to purchase counterfeit products.

Practical implications

It is expected that the study findings will enhance the understanding of marketers as well as policymakers about consumers’ purchase intention of such fake products. Eventually, it will help them to come up with better marketing strategies to purchase counterfeit products and to encourage them to purchase the original product.

Originality/value

This is relatively a pioneer study that examines the effect of ethical aspects of consumers in term of their religiosity, ethical concern, and perception of lawfulness on their attitude towards buying counterfeit products. Additionally, this study examines the mediating role of consumer attitude to purchase counterfeit product between ethical aspects and behavioural intention, which is comparatively new to the existing body of knowledge. Last, but not the least, this research has examined these relationships in a new research context i.e., Malaysian market, which can advance the knowledge about consumer behaviour in the East Asian context.
A cross-national study of apparel consumer preferences and the role of product-evaluative cues
Authors: Rahman Osmud , Fung Benjamin C.M. , Chen Zhimin , Gao Xiang
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate and identify the salient effects of apparel evaluativ1e cues in order to enrich our understanding of consumer preferences and behaviour in two different socio-cultural contexts – Canada from the west and China of the east.

Design/methodology/approach

Online and paper questionnaires were used to collect data from Canada and China. Based on the prior research, 14 hypotheses were developed, and SPSS statistical analyses were used for this study.

Findings

According to the findings, Canadian and Chinese participants used price as an indicator of product quality and/or monetary sacrifice. Overall, the consumers from both countries were more concerned about the garment fit and style than brand name and country of origin. It is imperative for fashion practitioners to prioritise their resources and focus more on product research/design and prototype development. Fit, comfort and fabric were strongly correlated except in the “fit and comfort” of the Canadian sample. In addition, durability, ease of care and wardrobe coordination play a relatively less significant clothing evaluative role than many other product cues.

Originality/value

There are relatively few research studies have focussed on apparel consumer behaviour, and the salient impact of product-evaluative cues – particularly from a cross-national perspective. This study covers a wide array of important evaluative cues, and provides meaningful insights to both fashion academicians and practitioners. This is one of the few studies provide an in-depth and comprehensive report on the role and effects of apparel product cues.
Marketing private hotel management schools in Australia
Authors: Goh Edmund , Nguyen Sandy , Law Rob
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions of 46 hotel management students from four leading private hotel management schools (PHMS) in Australia on their decision in choosing a PHMS over a traditional public university.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing the theory of planned behaviour as a theoretical framework, the qualitative interview data identified ten key attitudes, four reference groups and four perceived difficulties as potential motivators of students deciding to enrol in PHMS.

Findings

This paper identified reputation of school and industry placement opportunities as key attitudinal items shaping students’ decision-making process. With regards to important social groups, education agents and family were key reference groups. In relation to perceived difficulties, students reported tuition and living costs, and far distance from home as key barriers in their decision to study at PHMS.

Research limitations/implications

The sample draws upon students from a single state, New South Wales, Australia and this limits the generalisability of the authors’ findings. This study also excluded students from Australian public universities who may hold different perceptions towards studying at a PHMS.

Practical implications

The findings have important implications for hotel schools to improve their curriculum designs and embed practical hands on the learning experience of their students. Marketing agencies can also use these motivational attributes in developing effective marketing campaigns to increase enrolment figures.

Originality/value

This framework has proven to be useful in helping marketers understand various underlying motivational factors to attract prospective students to enrol in private hotel management schools.
Toward opening a new route for coal trading: a case study on a Bangladeshi SME
Authors: Mohiuddin Md. Fazla , Mahmud Anindo , Islam Hamim , Rahman Anchal Tajandia
Published: August 2017

Study level/applicability

Undergraduate/Masters/MBA.

Case overview

Anamika Enterprise Limited (AEL) is an export-import company founded in 1988. Today, AEL primarily imports coal from India which it then sells to customers in Bangladesh. However, a recent ban on coal mining in the Indian state of Meghalaya has created a huge problem for AEL. It is now considering opening trade routes to China and Indonesia. For that, it will need to consider both the short- and long-term factors related to its decision. It will need to take into consideration the cultural, economic and social factors in all three countries and trade accordingly. Tariff barriers and transportation costs will be a problem for AEL in the short run but in the long run, that may be overcome because of the experience effect arising from international business. Information and communication technology is also expected to have a huge impact.

Expected learning outcomes

Students are expected to learn the challenges of running international business in the real world and ways to overcome these challenges.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 5: International Business.
Employees first, customers second and shareholders third? Towards a modern HR philosophy
Authors: Rao M.S.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to place an emphasis on the philosophy of “employees first, customers second, and shareholders third”.

Design/methodology/approach

It outlines the advantages of this philosophy and illustrates with examples of global companies including Google, Virgin, Alibaba, Facebook, LinkedIn, FedEx Corporation, Southwest Airlines, Whole Foods, and Costco.

Findings

It concludes to treat your employees as assets and convert them into your brand ambassadors to accomplish organizational goals and objectives.

Practical implications

These strategies can be applied in any industry and in any size of organization.

Social implications

The social implications of this research suggests that leaders can achieve organizational excellence and effectiveness by adopting these strategies.

Originality/value

It substantiates that employees are the true value creators for any organization. It explores soft leadership and elaborates the changing mindsets of the employees globally. It enlightens to treat people as people and partners, not as workers.
25 healthcare mobile apps for consumers
Authors: Vincze Joseph
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a curated sample of consumer healthcare mobile apps that can be recommended to library patrons for obtaining health-related information and/or monitor and track their health.

Design/methodology/approach

Various health and medical apps listed on major app stores have been explored to address diverse consumer health and medical needs.

Findings

Healthcare mobile apps are increasingly being used by patients and consumers.

Originality/value

This paper examines some mobile apps that consumers are using as healthcare tools or for finding health information.
Perception of risk of adverse outcomes of older people: comparison between nursing homes, day centers and home care services
Authors: Teixeira Laetitia , Azevedo Maria João , Alves Sara , Pires Cátia L. , Paúl Constança
Published: August 2017

Purpose

In Portugal, the three main kinds of care services available for older people are nursing homes, day centers and home care services. The use of these care services is mostly based on complex socioeconomic and functional criteria; however it is not clear if this placement corresponds to a higher/lower risk of adverse outcomes. The purposes of this paper are: to characterize clients of each type of service; to estimate the proportion of individuals at perceived risk of each adverse outcome according to type of service; to assess the ability of the Risk Instrument for Screening in the Community (RISC) to identify the risk profiles according to type of service.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprised individuals aged 65+ (n=224), receiving care at home, in day centers or in nursing homes. The identification of individuals at risk for three adverse outcomes (institutionalization, hospitalization and death) was performed using a short pre-screen instrument (RISC).

Findings

The RISC identified mental state issues as the unique factor that differentiated clients according the type of care services (χ2 (6, N=224)=20.96, p=0.002), with day center presenting the lowest percentage of mental health concerns and nursing home presenting the highest percentage (44.44 and 71.91 percent, respectively). Additionally, a gradient was found between perceived risk of adverse outcomes (institutionalization and hospitalization) and care of levels required.

Originality/value

The RISC can be used to discriminate people in different settings of care and can be helpful in the selection of groups at risk that will benefit more from available services.
Youth academy player development in English football
Authors: Bullough Steve , Jordan James
Published: August 2017

Purpose

From the 2006-2007 season, Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) introduced regulation into European football by imposing “home-grown” quotas on clubs. The purpose of this paper is to remedy partial market failure by influencing issues in the game, namely reducing opportunities for “local” players and stockpiling players. Rule changes have amplified the importance of developing “home-grown” players; however, the UEFA rule is not limited by nationality, which is an inhibiting factor.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample used was the ten seasons from the introduction of the legislation (2006-2007 to 2015-2016). The results quantify English player production in these ten seasons, focusing on outputs (number of players, top-flight playing statistics, academy attended, club played for, age and international experience). Clubs are also categorised and analysed by the number of seasons played.

Findings

A total of 369 English players have debuted since 2006-2007, although only 141 developed through the eight “category 1” (ever-present) clubs. A high proportion of players are developing at elite clubs but having limited playing time and subsequently transferring to lower ranked clubs. The clubs promoted to the English Premier League (EPL) each season have introduced more English players into the EPL (167) than “category 1” clubs (112), and these clubs account for a minority of minutes played by new entrants (13 per cent). Furthermore, clubs outside the EPL are producing a significant number of English players, including those progressing to the national team.

Originality/value

Competing organisational purposes between the EPL, the FA and professional clubs have combined to create a complex environment and options for the future are discussed.
The peculiar economics of sports team ownership
Authors: Mason Daniel , Sant Stacy-Lynn , Soebbing Brian
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how North American professional team owners are engaging in broader urban development projects that have their teams as anchor tenants in new sports facilities, by examining the case of Rogers Arena in Edmonton, Canada.

Design/methodology/approach

Approached from a constructionist perspective, the study employed an instrumental case study strategy as it facilitates understanding and description of a particular phenomenon and allows researchers to use the case as a comparative point across other settings (with similar conditions) in which the phenomenon might be present.

Findings

Using urban regime theory as a framework, the authors found that in Edmonton, the team owner was able to align his interests with other political and business interests by engaging in a development strategy that increased the vibrancy of Edmonton’s downtown core. As a result, the owner was able to garner support for both the arena and the surrounding development.

Research limitations/implications

The authors argue that this new model of team owner as developer has several implications: on-field performance may only be important insofar as it drives demand for the development; the owner’s focus is on driving revenues and profits from interests outside of the sports facility itself; and the team (and the threat of relocation) is leveraged to gain master developer status for the ownership group.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the understanding of owner interests and how franchise profitability and solvency can be tied to other related business interests controlled by team owners.
Therapeutic depletion of myeloid lineage leukocytes by adsorptive apheresis for psoriatic arthritis: Efficacy of a non‐drug intervention for patients refractory to pharmacologics
Authors: Kanekura Takuro , Seishima Mariko , Honma Masaru , Etou Takafumi , Eto Hikaru , Okuma Keiko , Okubo Yukari , Yamaguchi Yukie , Kambara Takeshi , Mabuchi Tomotaka , Suga Yasushi , Morita Akimichi , Yamanishi Kiyofumi , Tsuruta Daisuke , Itoh Kei , Yamaji Ken , Ikeda Shigaku
Published: August 2017

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic inflammatory arthropathy associated with psoriasis, is an intractable immune disorder and refractory to pharmacological intervention. We assessed efficacy of selective depletion of myeloid lineage leukocytes in patients with PsA in a multicenter setting. A total of 20 patients with moderate to severe PsA refractory to conventional and biological disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs were included. Eligible patients had 3 points or more in the classification criteria for PsA. Each patient received five sessions, once a week, of adsorptive granulocyte and monocyte apheresis (GMA) with the Adacolumn®. The primary efficacy outcome was 20% or more decrease in the American College of Rheumatology score 20 (ACR20). Partial responders could receive an additional five GMA sessions. Of 20 patients, two did not complete the study, nine responded to five GMA sessions and nine received 10 sessions. At the first evaluation 2 weeks after the last GMA session, 13 of the 20 (65.0%) patients achieved ACR20. ACR20 was maintained in seven of 10 (70%) and five of 10 (50%) patients at the follow‐up evaluation points 8 and 20 weeks after the last GMA session, respectively. GMA was well tolerated without any safety concern. This study demonstrates that GMA with the Adacolumn was effective with good safety profile in patients with PsA refractory to pharmacologicals. The results indicate a major role for myeloid leukocytes in the immunopathogenesis of PsA. A large controlled study is warranted to fully evaluate the efficacy of Adacolumn GMA in patients with PsA.
Dynamics between doctors and managers in the Italian National Health Care System
Authors: Vicarelli Giovanna M. , Pavolini Emmanuele
Published: August 2017

This article focuses on the changes in the Italian NHS by concentrating on patterns in the managerialisation of doctors. It addresses a series of shortcomings in studies on the response by doctors to managerialisation. The first is a shortcoming of theoretical and analytical nature. It is necessary to adopt a broader perspective whereby analysis considers not only the interaction between doctors and managers, but also the public control and regulation agencies that operate in that field. The second shortcoming is a methodological one. The literature on managerialisation is more theoretical than applied. It is necessary to adopt a strategy based on a plurality of methodologies and sources in order to focus attention on a national case (Italy in the present study), discussing the changes over time (from the beginning of managerialisation until today) and considering different groups within the medical profession. The outcome is a complex picture of the dynamics between doctors and managers which foregrounds the managerial co‐optation processes of a small group of national health service doctors, the transition from strategic adaptation to forms of resistance against managerialisation by the majority of Italian NHS doctors, and the emergence of restratification processes among self‐employed doctors working with the NHS.
Microbial approaches for targeting antibiotic‐resistant bacteria
Authors: Wong Wing Fei , Santiago Marina
Published: August 2017

Antibiotic resistant bacterial infections are a global public health challenge that has been increasing in severity and scope for the last few decades. Without creative solutions to this problem, treatment of injuries and infections will become progressively more challenging. A better understanding of the human microbiome has led to a new appreciation for the role commensal microbes play in protecting us from pathogens, especially in the gut. Antibiotics lead to disruption of the gut microbial ecosystem, enabling colonization by antibiotic resistant bacterial pathogens. Many different lines of research have identified specific bacterial taxa and mechanisms that play a role in colonization resistance, and these lines of research may one day lead to microbial therapeutics targeting antibiotic resistant bacteria. Here, we discuss a few of these strategies and the challenges they will need to overcome in order to become an effective therapeutic.
Microbially derived biosensors for diagnosis, monitoring and epidemiology
Authors: Chang Hung‐Ju , Voyvodic Peter L. , Zúñiga Ana , Bonnet Jérôme
Published: August 2017

Living cells have evolved to detect and process various signals and can self‐replicate, presenting an attractive platform for engineering scalable and affordable biosensing devices. Microbes are perfect candidates: they are inexpensive and easy to manipulate and store. Recent advances in synthetic biology promise to streamline the engineering of microbial biosensors with unprecedented capabilities. Here we review the applications of microbially‐derived biosensors with a focus on environmental monitoring and healthcare applications. We also identify critical challenges that need to be addressed in order to translate the potential of synthetic microbial biosensors into large‐scale, real‐world applications.
Biomining of metals: how to access and exploit natural resource sustainably
Authors: Jerez Carlos A.
Published: August 2017

Mining activities have been carried out for thousands of years and nowadays have an enormous worldwide use to obtain important metals of industrial use. These include copper, iron, gold and several others. Although modern mining companies have sustainable mining programs that include tailings management and external verifications, it is recognized that these industrial activities are responsible for a significant damage to the environment. Specially, technologies such as smelting and roasting generate very toxic emissions, including solid particles in the air, very large tailings and contribute to generate acid mine drainage (AMD) that affects humans health and all kinds of living plants, animals and microorganisms. Consequently, due to environmental restrictions, these methods are being replaced in many countries by less contaminating processes. On the other hand, the microbial solubilization of metals by bioleaching or biomining is successfully used in industrial operations, to extract several metals such as copper, gold and uranium.
How to access and exploit natural resources sustainably: petroleum biotechnology
Authors: Sherry Angela , Andrade Luiza , Velenturf Anne , Christgen Beate , Gray Neil D. , Head Ian M.
Published: August 2017

As we transition from fossil fuel reliance to a new energy future, innovative microbial biotechnologies may offer new routes to maximize recovery from conventional and unconventional energy assets; as well as contributing to reduced emission pathways and new technologies for carbon capture and utilization. Here we discuss the role of microbiology in petroleum biotechnologies in relation to addressing UN Sustainable Development Goal 12 (ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns), with a focus on microbially‐mediated energy recovery from unconventionals (heavy oil to methane), shale gas and fracking, bioelectrochemical systems for the production of electricity from fossil fuel resources, and innovations in synthetic biology. Furthermore, using wastes to support a more sustainable approach to fossil fuel extraction processes is considered as we undertake the move towards a more circular global economy.
Influence of biofilm lubricity on shear‐induced transmission of staphylococcal biofilms from stainless steel to silicone rubber
Authors: Gusnaniar Niar , Sjollema Jelmer , Jong Ed D. , Woudstra Willem , de Vries Joop , Nuryastuti Titik , van der Mei Henny C. , Busscher Henk J.
Published: August 2017

In real‐life situations, bacteria are often transmitted from biofilms growing on donor surfaces to receiver ones. Bacterial transmission is more complex than adhesion, involving bacterial detachment from donor and subsequent adhesion to receiver surfaces. Here, we describe a new device to study shear‐induced bacterial transmission from a (stainless steel) pipe to a (silicone rubber) tube and compare transmission of EPS‐producing and non‐EPS‐producing staphylococci. Transmission of an entire biofilm from the donor to the receiver tube did not occur, indicative of cohesive failure in the biofilm rather than of adhesive failure at the donor‐biofilm interface. Biofilm was gradually transmitted over an increasing length of receiver tube, occurring mostly to the first 50 cm of the receiver tube. Under high‐shearing velocity, transmission of non‐EPS‐producing bacteria to the second half decreased non‐linearly, likely due to rapid thinning of the lowly lubricious biofilm. Oppositely, transmission of EPS‐producing strains to the second tube half was not affected by higher shearing velocity due to the high lubricity and stress relaxation of the EPS‐rich biofilms, ensuring continued contact with the receiver. The non‐linear decrease of ongoing bacterial transmission under high‐shearing velocity is new and of relevance in for instance, high‐speed food slicers and food packaging.
Interplay between Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Candida and the involvement of exopolysaccharides
Authors: Allonsius Camille N. , van den Broek Marianne F. L. , De Boeck Ilke , Kiekens Shari , Oerlemans Eline F. M. , Kiekens Filip , Foubert Kenn , Vandenheuvel Dieter , Cos Paul , Delputte Peter , Lebeer Sarah
Published: August 2017

A number of clinical studies have shown protective effects of lactobacilli against Candida species in the gastrointestinal tract, the urogenital tract and the oral cavity, while others did not show clear effects. Evidence on the mode of action of lactobacilli against Candida is also still lacking. In this study, the anti‐Candida activity of the model probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG was explored in different assays to determine molecular interactions. We found that L. rhamnosus GG was able to interfere with Candida growth, morphogenesis and adhesion. These three aspects of Candida's physiology are all crucial to its opportunistic pathogenesis. In follow‐up assays, we compared the activity of L. rhamnosus GG wild‐type with its exopolysaccharide (EPS)‐deficient mutant and purified EPS to evaluate the involvement of this outer carbohydrate layer. Our data demonstrate that purified EPS can both interfere with hyphal formation and adhesion to epithelial cells, which indicates that EPS is part of a combined molecular mechanism underlying the antihyphal and anti‐adhesion mechanisms of L. rhamnosus GG.
Testosterone replacement therapy: improved sexual desire and erectile function in men with type 2 diabetes following a 30‐week randomized placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Hackett G. , Cole N. , Saghir A. , Jones P. , Strange R. C. , Ramachandran S.
Published: August 2017

Although testosterone replacement treatment (TRT) can improve sexual function in many hypogonadal (HG) men with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), some show either no improvement or only in a limited number of domains. Indeed, it is often difficult for the clinician to offer an indication of the likely efficacy of TRT as little data exist on the proportion of TRT‐treated men who will demonstrate improvement in domains such as sexual desire (SxD) and erectile function (EF). We describe in men with T2DM: firstly, the likelihood of improved sexual desire (SxD) and erectile function (EF) following TRT at various time points, and secondly, if probability of SxD change predicted likelihood of subsequent EF change. During a 30‐week randomized controlled study of testosterone undecanoate (TU), 199 T2DM men with HG (189 men completing) identified from primary care registers (placebo (P): 107, TU: 92) were stratified using baseline total testosterone (TT)/free testosterone (FT) into Mild (TT 8.1–12 nmol/L or FT 0.18–0.25 nmol/L) and Severe HG groups (TT ≤8 nmol/L and FT ≤0.18 nmol/L) and placebo (P)‐ and TU‐treated groups. Associations between TU, SxD and EF were investigated using chi‐square and logistic regression analysis. The proportion of men with improved SxD after 6 weeks and EF improvement after 30 weeks was significantly higher following TU treatment compared to P, this particularly evident in Severe HG men. Changes in SxD and EF were significantly associated in all groups. Logistic regression showed that SxD change at 6 weeks predicted of EF change after 30 weeks. Our study confirms TRT leads to changes in SxD and EF at different time points and suggests SxD and EF changes are related. SxD change after 6 weeks predicting EF change at 30 weeks is possibly a useful clinical finding.
Metabolic profiling of murine plasma reveals eicosapentaenoic acid metabolites protecting against endothelial activation and atherosclerosis
Authors: Liu Yajin , Fang Xuan , Zhang Xu , Huang Jing , He Jinlong , Peng Liyuan , Ye Chenji , Wang Yingmei , Xue Fengxia , Ai Ding , Li Dan , Zhu Yi
Published: August 2017

Background and Purpose

Atherosclerosis results from a maladaptive inflammatory response initiated by the intramural retention of LDL in susceptible areas of the arterial vasculature. The ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω‐3) have protective effects in atherosclerosis; however, their molecular mechanism is still largely unknown. The present study used a metabolomic approach to reveal the atheroprotective metabolites of ω‐3 and investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Experimental Approach

We evaluated the development of atherosclerosis in LDL receptor‐deficient mice (LDLR−/−) fed a Western‐type diet (WTD) plus ω‐3 and also LDLR−/− and fat‐1 transgenic (LDLR−/−‐fat‐1tg) mice fed a WTD. The profiles of ω‐3 in the plasma were screened by LC–MS/MS using unbiased systematic metabolomics analysis. We also studied the effect of metabolites of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on endothelial activation in vitro.

Key Results

The ω‐3 diet and fat‐1 transgene decreased monocyte infiltration, inhibited the expression of pro‐inflammatory genes and significantly attenuated atherosclerotic plaque formation and enhanced plaque stability in LDLR−/− mice. The content of 18‐hydroxy‐eicosapentaenoic acid (18‐HEPE) and 17,18‐epoxy‐eicosatetraenoic acid (17,18‐EEQ), from the cytochrome P450 pathway of EPA, was significantly higher in plasma from both ω‐3‐treated LDLR−/− and LDLR−/−‐fat‐1tg mice as compared with WTD‐fed LDLR−/− mice. In vitro in endothelial cells, 18‐HEPE or 17,18‐EEQ decreased inflammatory gene expression induced by TNFα via NF‐κB signalling and thereby inhibited monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells.

Conclusions and Implications

EPA protected against the development of atherosclerosis in atheroprone mice via the metabolites 18‐HEPE and/or 17,18‐EEQ, which reduced endothelial activation. These compounds may have therapeutic implications in atherosclerosis.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Spotlight on Small Molecules in Cardiovascular Diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.8/issuetoc
Phase I/II study of pralatrexate in Japanese patients with relapsed or refractory peripheral T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Maruyama Dai , Nagai Hirokazu , Maeda Yoshinobu , Nakane Takahiko , Shimoyama Tatsu , Nakazato Tomonori , Sakai Rika , Ishikawa Takayuki , Izutsu Koji , Ueda Ryuzo , Tobinai Kensei
Published: August 2017

Pralatrexate is a novel antifolate approved in the USA for the treatment of relapsed or refractory peripheral T‐cell lymphoma. To assess its safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics in Japanese patients with this disease, we undertook a phase I/II study. Pralatrexate was given i.v. weekly for 6 weeks of a 7‐week cycle. All patients received concurrent vitamin B12 and folic acid. In phase I, three patients received pralatrexate 30 mg/m2 and none experienced a dose‐limiting toxicity. In phase II, we treated 22 additional patients with that dose. The median number of treatment cycles was 1 (range, 1–9). Nine of 20 evaluable patients (45%) achieved an objective response by central review, including two complete responses. All responses occurred within the first treatment cycle. At the time of data cut‐off, median progression‐free survival was 150 days. Median overall survival was not reached. In the total population, the most commonly reported adverse events included mucositis (88%), thrombocytopenia (68%), liver function test abnormality (64%), anemia (60%), and lymphopenia (56%). Grade 3/4 adverse events included lymphopenia (52%), thrombocytopenia (40%), leukopenia (28%), neutropenia (24%), anemia (20%), and mucositis (20%). The pharmacokinetic profile showed no drug accumulation with repeat dosing. These results indicate that pralatrexate is generally well tolerated and effective in Japanese patients with relapsed or refractory peripheral T‐cell lymphoma. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02013362).
Judging a Book by Its Cover: Children's Facial Trustworthiness as Judged by Strangers Predicts Their Real‐World Trustworthiness and Peer Relationships
Authors: Li Qinggong , Heyman Gail D. , Mei Jing , Lee Kang
Published: August 2017

This longitudinal research examined whether children's facial trustworthiness as judged by strangers can predict their real‐world trustworthiness and peer acceptance. Adults (Study 1) and children (Study 2) judged the facial trustworthiness of 8‐ to 12‐year‐old children (N = 100) solely based on their photographs. The children's classmates were asked to report their real‐world trustworthiness and peer acceptance. Children's facial trustworthiness reliably predicted these outcomes both initially when the photographs were taken, as well as 1 year later, and this effect was mediated by the initial ratings of real‐world trustworthiness and peer acceptance. These results provide evidence for a long‐lasting linkage between children's facial and real‐world trustworthiness.
You Care More for the Gear Than the Geezer? Care Relationships of Homeless Substance Users in London
Authors: LENHARD JOHANNES
Published: August 2017

Care for homeless people in general and homeless substance abusers in particular has been well explored as a research topic (Fisher and Collins ; Seal ; Desjarlais ; Pleace and Quilgars ; Bevan ; Briggs ). Historically, academics have been interested in care in settings as diverse as families, hospitals, asylums, poorhouses, the criminal justice system and more recently what has been called the ‘community’. In this paper, I want to look at two different dimensions of care in a particular social world of substance using homeless people in London where the people are not always the likely recipients but active providers of care. I understand care in Mol's and Winance's sense as a process of tinkering (Mol ; Winance ). The most dominant form of care is produced by many homeless substance users themselves: they care for drugs. The relationship to ‘their’ substance is often highly intimate and characterized by physical and emotional closeness, commitment and accord. Drugs develop person‐like characteristics and ‘demand’ care, promising intimacy and a sense of self. Dominated by the need to care for drugs in this way, other (human‐to‐human) relationships can become increasingly fragmented and the social net can become hollowed out, instrumental and even violent. Geographies split apart with different logics between public and intimate; sub‐cities emerge. But at the same time as the drug develops into the object of care demanding attention, the responsibility to care can develop a shared dimension. Friendships and love relationships grow based on intimate care which still centre on drugs but go far beyond it in their carefulness and interconnection. This is where geographies merge, connections are made and futures are built.