bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Tube Genotyping without Oligonucleotide Probes
Authors: Germer Søren , Higuchi Russell
Published: November 2021

We report the development of a self-contained (homogeneous), single-tube assay for the genotyping of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which does not rely on fluorescent oligonucleotide probes. The method, which we call Tm-shift genotyping, combines allele-specific PCR with the discrimination between amplification products by their melting temperatures (Tm). Two distinct forward primers, each of which contains a 3′-terminal base that corresponds to one of the two SNP allelic variants, are combined with a common reverse primer in a single-tube reaction. A GC-tail is attached to one of the forward allele-specific primers to increase theTm of the amplification product from the corresponding allele. PCR amplification, Tmanalysis, and allele determination of genomic template DNA are carried out on a fluorescence-detecting thermocycler with a dye that fluoresces when bound to dsDNA. We demonstrate the accuracy and reliability ofTm-shift genotyping on 100 samples typed for two SNPs, and recommend it both as a simple and inexpensive diagnostic tool for genotyping medically relevant SNPs and as a high-throughput SNP genotyping method for gene mapping.
Analysis of Two Cosmid Clones from Chromosome 4 of Drosophila melanogaster Reveals Two New Genes Amid an Unusual Arrangement of Repeated Sequences
Authors: Locke John , Podemski Lynn , Roy Ken , Pilgrim David , Hodgetts Ross
Published: November 2021

Chromosome 4 from Drosophila melanogaster has several unusual features that distinguish it from the other chromosomes. These include a diffuse appearance in salivary gland polytene chromosomes, an absence of recombination, and the variegated expression of P-element transgenes. As part of a larger project to understand these properties, we are assembling a physical map of this chromosome. Here we report the sequence of two cosmids representing ∼5% of the polytenized region. Both cosmid clones contain numerous repeated DNA sequences, as identified by cross hybridization with labeled genomic DNA, BLAST searches, and dot matrix analysis, which are positioned between and within the transcribed sequences. The repetitive sequences include three copies of the mobile element Hoppel, one copy of the mobile element HB, and 18 DINE repeats. DINE is a novel, short repeated sequence dispersed throughout both cosmid sequences. One cosmid includes the previously described cubitus interruptus(ci) gene and two new genes: that a gene with a predicted amino acid sequence similar to ribosomal protein S3a which is consistent with the Minute(4)101 locus thought to be in the region, and a novel member of the protein family that includes plexin and met–hepatocyte growth factor receptor. The other cosmid contains only the two short 5′-most exons from thezinc-finger-homolog-2 (zfh-2) gene. This is the first extensive sequence analysis of noncoding DNA from chromosome 4. The distribution of the various repeats suggests its organization is similar to the β-heterochromatic regions near the base of the major chromosome arms. Such a pattern may account for the diffuse banding of the polytene chromosome 4 and the variegation of many P-element transgenes on the chromosome.
Isolation of Human Transcripts Expressed in Hamster Cells from YACs by cDNA Representational Difference Analysis
Authors: Gu Jessie , Guan Xin-Yuan , Ashlock Melissa A.
Published: November 2021

Gene isolation methods used during positional cloning rely on physical contigs consisting of bacterial artificial chromosomes, P1, or cosmid clones. However, in most instances, the initial framework for physical mapping consists of contigs of yeast artificial chromosome (YACs), large vectors that are suboptimal substrates for gene isolation. Here we report a strategy to identify gene sequences contained within a YAC by using cDNA representational difference analysis (RDA) to directly isolate transcripts expressed from the YAC in mammalian cells. The RDA tester cDNAs were generated from a previously reported hamster cell line derived by stable transfer of a 590-kb YAC (911D5) that expressed NPC1, the human gene responsible for Niemann-Pick type C (NP-C). The driver cDNAs were generated from a control hamster cell line that did not contain the YAC that expressed NPC1. Among the gene fragments obtained by RDA,NPC1 was the most abundant product. In addition, two non-NPC1 fragments were isolated that were mapped to and expressed from 911D5. One of these RDA gene fragments (7-R) spans more than one exon and has 98% sequence identity with a human cDNA clone reported previously as an expressed sequence tag (EST), but not mapped to a chromosomal region. The other fragment (2-R) that had no significant sequence similarities with known mammalian genes or ESTs, was further localized to the region of overlap between YACs911D5 and 844E3. The latter YAC is part of a contig across the NP-C candidate region, but does not contain NPC1. This two-part approach in which stable YAC transfer is followed by cDNA RDA should be a useful adjunct strategy to expedite the cloning of human genes when a YAC contig is available across a candidate interval.

[The sequence data described in this paper have been submitted to GenBank under accession nos. AF117641 and AF117642.]
Comparative Genomic Analysis of the Interferon/Interleukin-10 Receptor Gene Cluster
Authors: Reboul Jérôme , Gardiner Katheleen , Monneron Danièle , Uzé Gilles , Lutfalla Georges
Published: November 2021

Interferons and interleukin-10 are involved in key aspects of the host defence mechanisms. Human chromosome 21 harbors the interferon/interleukin-10 receptor gene cluster linked to theGART gene. This cluster includes both components of the interferon α/β-receptor (IFNAR1 and IFNAR2) and the second components of the interferon γ-receptor (IFNGR2) and of the IL-10 receptor (IL10R2). We report here the complete gene content of this GART–cytokine receptor gene cluster and the use of comparative genomic analysis to identify chicken IFNAR1, IFNAR2, andIL10R2. We show that the large-scale structure of this locus is conserved in human and chicken but not in the pufferfish Fugu rubripes. This establishes that the receptor components of these host defense mechanisms were fixed in an ancestor of the amniotes. The extraordinary diversification of the interferon ligand family during the evolution of birds and mammals has therefore occured in the context of a fixed receptor structure.

[The sequence data described in this paper have been submitted to GenBank under accession nos.AF039904, AF039905, AF039906, AF039907, AF045606, AF082664, AF082665,AF082666, AF082667, and AF083221.]
Automated Filtration-Based High-Throughput Plasmid Preparation System
Authors: Itoh Masayoshi , Kitsunai Tokuji , Akiyama Junichi , Shibata Kazuhiro , Izawa Masaki , Kawai Jun , Tomaru Yasuhiro , Carninci Piero , Shibata Yuko , Ozawa Yasuhiro , Muramatsu Masami , Okazaki Yasushi , Hayashizaki Yoshihide
Published: November 2021

Current methods of plasmid preparation do not allow for large capacity automated processing. We have developed an automated high-throughput system that prepares plasmid DNA for large-scale sequencing. This system is based on our previously reported filtration method. In this method, cell harvesting, alkaline lysis, and plasmid purification occur in a single 96-well microtiter plate from which sequence-ready DNA samples are collected. The plates are designed to allow all reagents to be injected from above the wells and the spent reagents to be aspirated from below. This design has enabled us to build a linear process plasmid preparation system consisting of an automated filter plate stacker and a 21-stage automated plasmid preparator. The 96-well plates used are outfitted with glass-filters that trap Escherichia coli before the plates are stacked in the automated stacker. The plates move from the stacker to each of the 21 stages of the preparator. At specific stages, various reagents or chemicals are injected into the wells from above. Finally, the plates are collected in the second stacker. The optimal throughput of the preparator is 40,000 samples in 17.5 hr. Here, we describe a pilot experiment preparing 15,360 templates in 160 specially designed 96-well glass-filter plates. The prepared plasmids were subjected to restriction digestion, DNA sequencing, and transcriptional sequencing.
Genetic Localization of a Drosophila melanogaster Resistance Gene to a Parasitoid Wasp and Physical Mapping of the Region
Authors: Hita Maria Teresa , Poirié Maryléne , Leblanc Nathalie , Lemeunier Francoise , Lutcher Francoise , Frey Francoise , Periquet Georges , Carton Yves
Published: November 2021

Drosophila melanogaster larvae usually react against eggs of the parasitoid wasp Leptopilina boulardi by surrounding them with a multicellular melanotic capsule. The genetic determinism of this response has been studied previously using susceptible (non-capsule-forming) and resistant (capsule-forming) strains. The results suggest that differences in their encapsulation response involve a single gene, resistance to Leptopilina boulardi(Rlb), with two alleles, the resistant one being dominant.Rlb confers specific protection against Leptopilina boulardi and is thus probably involved in parasitoid recognition. Recent studies have localized this gene on the right arm of the second chromosome and our aim was to precisely determine its genetic and molecular location. Using strains bearing deletions, we demonstrated that resistance to Leptopilina boulardi is conferred by the55C; 55F3 region and that the 55E2–E6; F3 region is particularly involved. A physical map of the 55C;56A region was then constructed, based on a set of overlapping cosmid and P1 phage clones. Using single and double digests, cross hybridization of restriction fragments, and location of genetically mapped genes and STSs, a complete, five-enzyme restriction map of this 830-kb region was obtained.
The Genomic Tree as Revealed from Whole Proteome Comparisons
Authors: Tekaia Fredj , Lazcano Antonio , Dujon Bernard
Published: November 2021

The availability of a number of complete cellular genome sequences allows the development of organisms’ classification, taking into account their genome content, the loss or acquisition of genes, and overall gene similarities as signatures of common ancestry. On the basis of correspondence analysis and hierarchical classification methods, a methodological framework is introduced here for the classification of the available 20 completely sequenced genomes and partial information for Schizosaccharomyces pombe, Homo sapiens, and Mus musculus. The outcome of such an analysis leads to a classification of genomes that we call a genomic tree. Although these trees are phenograms, they carry with them strong phylogenetic signatures and are remarkably similar to 16S-like rRNA-based phylogenies. Our results suggest that duplication and deletion events that took place through evolutionary time were globally similar in related organisms. The genomic trees presented here place the Archaea in the proximity of the Bacteria when the whole gene content of each organism is considered, and when ancestral gene duplications are eliminated. Genomic trees represent an additional approach for the understanding of evolution at the genomic level and may contribute to the proper assessment of the evolutionary relationships between extant species.
Physical and Meiotic Mapping of the Region of Human Chromosome 4q11–q13 Encompassing the Vitamin D Binding Protein DBP/Gc-Globulin and Albumin Multigene Cluster
Authors: Song Young-Han , Naumova Anna K. , Liebhaber Stephen A. , Cooke Nancy E.
Published: November 2021

The vitamin D binding protein/Gc-globulin (DBP) gene is a member of a multigene cluster that includes albumin (ALB), α-fetoprotein (AFP), and α-albumin/afamin (AFM). All four genes have structural and functional similarities and map to the same chromosomal regions in humans (4q11–q13), mice, and rats. An accurate physical map of the region encompassing these genes is a prerequisite for study of their respective transcriptional regulation and identification of potential shared regulatory elements. By refining the physical and meiotic maps of the 4q11–q13 region and creating a local PAC contig, the order and transcriptional orientations of these four genes were determined to be centromere–3′-DBP-5′–5′-ALB-3′–5′-AFP-3′–5′-AFM3′–telomere. The ancestral DBP gene was separated from the ALBgene by >1.5 Mb. This organization and spacing establishes a foundation for ongoing functional studies in this region.
Comparative Genomics of the Archaea (Euryarchaeota): Evolution of Conserved Protein Families, the Stable Core, and the Variable Shell
Authors: Makarova Kira S. , Aravind L. , Galperin Michael Y. , Grishin Nick V. , Tatusov Roman L. , Wolf Yuri I. , Koonin Eugene V.
Published: November 2021

Comparative analysis of the protein sequences encoded in the four euryarchaeal species whose genomes have been sequenced completely (Methanococcus jannaschii, Methanobacterium thermoautotrophicum, Archaeoglobus fulgidus, andPyrococcus horikoshii) revealed 1326 orthologous sets, of which 543 are represented in all four species. The proteins that belong to these conserved euryarchaeal families comprise 31%–35% of the gene complement and may be considered the evolutionarily stable core of the archaeal genomes. The core gene set includes the great majority of genes coding for proteins involved in genome replication and expression, but only a relatively small subset of metabolic functions. For many gene families that are conserved in all euryarchaea, previously undetected orthologs in bacteria and eukaryotes were identified. A number of euryarchaeal synapomorphies (unique shared characters) were identified; these are protein families that possess sequence signatures or domain architectures that are conserved in all euryarchaea but are not found in bacteria or eukaryotes. In addition, euryarchaea-specific expansions of several protein and domain families were detected. In terms of their apparent phylogenetic affinities, the archaeal protein families split into bacterial and eukaryotic families. The majority of the proteins that have only eukaryotic orthologs or show the greatest similarity to their eukaryotic counterparts belong to the core set. The families of euryarchaeal genes that are conserved in only two or three species constitute a relatively mobile component of the genomes whose evolution should have involved multiple events of lineage-specific gene loss and horizontal gene transfer. Frequently these proteins have detectable orthologs only in bacteria or show the greatest similarity to the bacterial homologs, which might suggest a significant role of horizontal gene transfer from bacteria in the evolution of the euryarchaeota.
Negligible Male Gene Flow Across Ethnic Boundaries in India, Revealed by Analysis of Y-Chromosomal DNA Polymorphisms
Authors: Bhattacharyya Nitai Pada , Basu Priyadarshi , Das Madhusudan , Pramanik Srimanta , Banerjee Rajat , Roy Bidyut , Roychoudhury Susanta , Majumder Partha P.
Published: November 2021

From the historically prevalent social structure of Indian populations it may be predicted that there has been very little male gene flow across ethnic boundaries. To test this finding, we have analyzed DNA samples of individuals belonging to 10 ethnic groups, speaking Indo-European or Austroasiatic languages and inhabiting the eastern and northern regions of India. Eight Y-chromosomal markers, two biallelic and six microsatellite, were studied. All populations were monomorphic for the deletion allele at the YAP (DYS287) locus and for the 119-bp allele at the DYS288 locus. Y-chromosomal haplotypes were constructed on the basis of one RFLP locus and five microsatellite loci. The haplotype distribution among the groups showed that different ethnic groups harbor nearly disjoint sets of haplotypes. This indicates that there has been virtually no male gene flow among ethnic groups. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that there was significant haplotypic variation between castes and tribes, but nonsignificant variation among ranked caste clusters. Haplotypic variation attributable to differences in geographical regions of habitat was also nonsignificant.
Comparing Genomes within the Species Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Kato-Maeda Midori , Rhee Jeanne T. , Gingeras Thomas R. , Salamon Hugh , Drenkow Jorg , Smittipat Nat , Small Peter M.
Published: November 2021

The study of genetic variability within natural populations of pathogens may provide insight into their evolution and pathogenesis. We used a Mycobacterium tuberculosis high-density oligonucleotide microarray to detect small-scale genomic deletions among 19 clinically and epidemiologically well-characterized isolates of M. tuberculosis. The pattern of deletions detected was identical within mycobacterial clones but differed between different clones, suggesting that this is a suitable genotyping system for epidemiologic studies. An analysis of genomic deletions among an extant population of pathogenic bacteria provided a novel perspective on genomic organization and evolution. Deletions are likely to contain ancestral genes whose functions are no longer essential for the organism's survival, whereas genes that are never deleted constitute the minimal mycobacterial genome. As the amount of genomic deletion increased, the likelihood that the bacteria will cause pulmonary cavitation decreased, suggesting that the accumulation of mutations tends to diminish their pathogenicity. Array-based comparative genomics is a promising approach to exploring molecular epidemiology, microbial evolution, and pathogenesis.
Trialling micro-learning design to increase engagement in online courses
Authors: Kossen Chris , Ooi Chia-Yi
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper reports on how micro-learning design principles are being trialled in an Australian and a Malaysian university to make online courses more accessible and attractive, and a more positive experience, with the aim of increasing student success. Central to this approach is segmenting materials into “bite-size” instalments by way of short micro-lecture presentations and reducing other content. The aim of this “less is more” strategy is to reduce unnecessary cognitive load as an impediment to learning so that focus can shift to prioritising the most essential skills and content. The purpose of this trial is to explore the efficacy of micro-learning as a means for increasing student engagement and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The trials involved a mixed mode methodology drawing on qualitative and ratings data from course satisfaction surveys and records on grades and completion.

Findings

To date, results have shown significant increases in student engagement and satisfaction, and also performance. Our application of micro-learning included reducing volume of content based on its practical value, use of novelty (e.g. infusing guest presenter input) and design of practical and collaborative student activities.

Research limitations/implications

Early results are encouraging regarding apparent utility for engaging learners and ease of application, i.e. implementability and transference potential. However, the rapidly expanding area of online learning requires further research to establish a well-validated evidence base for effective online teaching practices.

Practical implications

The findings are relevant to universities involved in online and blended learning. Micro-learning design methods show promise in being able to address major engagement barriers including cognitive overload.

Social implications

More students are struggling with learning in today's social environment brought about with the massification of higher education. Micro-learning seeks to address major barriers these learners face with methods that go beyond traditional teaching practices.

Originality/value

Findings here are encouraging and contribute to existing understanding on ways to increase learner engagement in the competitive and fast-growing area of online learning for universities globally.
Informal learning as mediating mechanism for the relationship between learning climate and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB)
Authors: Zia Muhammad Qamar , Huning Tobias M. , Shamsi Aamir Feroz , Naveed Muhammad , Mangi Riaz Ahmed
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The goal of this study was to examine the mediating mechanism of informal learning between dimensions of learning climate and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). In addition, the study also aimed to investigate the learning climate, in the dimensions of learning facilitation, learning appreciation and error avoidance as antecedents of informal learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from sports items manufacturing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Sialkot, Pakistan. Sialkot is home to manufacturing businesses that export their products worldwide. Survey data of 318 middle managers collected at 2 different times were used for testing the research model using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The results demonstrate that facilitation and appreciation learning climate have a positive relationship with informal learning and error-avoidance has a negative relationship with informal learning. The analysis also revealed that informal learning mediated the linkage between learning climate dimensions and OCB. Moreover, informal learning is significantly related to OCB.

Practical implications

HR practitioners and organizational leaders of SMEs can use, encourage and promote informal learning to improve the skills and knowledge of employees at low cost. For instance, management should strategically implement informal learning at the workplace by providing a supportive learning climate.

Originality/value

Previous studies have overlooked the impact of informal learning on OCB and its mediating effect. The present study addresses this gap by examining the mediating mechanism of informal learning between learning climate and OCB.
Effect of poultry absorptive capacity on the farms' economic and commercial performance
Authors: Ifeanyieze Florence Obiageli , Asogwa Cosmas Ikechukwu , Nwankwo Clara U. , Ekenta Lilian Ukamaka , Ezebuiro Felicia Ngozi , Eze Godwin Emeka , Onu Francis Madueke , Onah Fredrick Chinedu , Asogwa Vincent Chidindu , Isiwu Edward Chidi , Nwangbo Azunku Francis
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Corporate organizations could enhance their economic and commercial values through knowledge acquisitions and exploitations. The purpose of this study is to analyze the economic and commercial performance effect of poultry management absorptive capacity in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling was used in the analysis of a random sample of 300 poultry managers and owners surveyed within the South-Eastern Nigeria. The scales that quantified the latent variables of the factors were tested for reliability and consistency using confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The study found evidence that the difference between economically and commercially viable poultry businesses and failing ones depends on the level of absorptive capacity. Absorptive capacity advanced innovations that resulted in higher economic and commercial performance of poultry farm. Poultry firms' profitability, sales growth and market shares were positively increased by absorptive capacity dimensions of acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation.

Research limitations/implications

The study was carried out within a region in Nigeria and thus could be limited by generalization to the developed country.

Originality/value

This study is the first to link four dimensions of absorptive capacity to the economic and commercial performance of poultry businesses in Nigeria. As such, it originally breaks new frontier of poultry farming from dynamic capabilities and absorptive capacity perspectives.
The socio-cultural determinants of tourism: the case of Turkey
Authors: Bayrakcı Selman , Ozcan Ceyhun Can
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The study aims to determine the socio-cultural variables that affect Turkey's tourism demand. The study proposes how important socio-cultural determinants as well as economic determinants affect tourism demand.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examined a sample of 19 countries sending the most visitors to Turkey between 1996 and 2017 by using panel unit root, panel cointegration tests and cointegration estimator methods. The data set consists of variables such as GDP per capita (lnGDPP), total population number (lnPOP), urbanization level, information and communication technology (lnICT), human development index (lnHDI), education level and death rates (lnDTH).

Findings

The findings from the analysis provide evidence that the variables in the models show the expected effects on tourism demand. The findings show that apart from economic variables, socio-cultural variables also have an important effect on tourism demand.

Research limitations/implications

The socio-cultural models used in the study were created using variables that can be quantified. The study results are valid for the countries included in the analysis.

Practical implications

The findings of this study will contribute to policymakers in determining the market for Turkish tourism. The results show that the policies to be prepared by considering the socio-cultural characteristics of countries can increase the tourism demand.

Originality/value

The study is significant in that it focuses on socio-cultural variables rather than economic variables commonly used in the literature. The study is original in terms of both the study sample and the model and considers cross-sectional dependency (CD) and homogeneity.
Lived experience and clinical co-facilitation of a mental health literacy programme: qualitative exploration of satisfaction and factors supporting effective delivery
Authors: Postelnik Talya , Robertson Rhonda , Jury Angela , Kongs-Taylor Heather , Hetrick Sarah , Tuason Charito
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Mental health literacy programmes can help reduce stigma towards people who experience mental health challenges. Co-facilitated mental health literacy programmes, delivered by a person with lived experience of mental health challenges in partnership with a person with clinical experience in mental health services, may further reduce stigma. This qualitative study aims to explore participants’ satisfaction with a co-facilitated mental health literacy programme and facilitator characteristics influencing satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used deidentified post-workshop evaluation data from 762 community mental health literacy programme participants (86% response rate). Thematic analysis of qualitative data used a general inductive approach.

Findings

Findings indicate high satisfaction with the co-facilitation model used to deliver a mental health literacy programme. Three key themes related to co-facilitation satisfaction: how participants perceived the co-facilitation model overall; the impact of having two facilitators that offered different knowledge and perspectives about mental health challenges; and the impact of personal stories shared. The personal stories shared by facilitators were perceived as bringing the workshop content to life and providing insights into people’s experiences and well-being journey. Key themes influencing co-facilitation satisfaction related to facilitator knowledge, skills, values and attitudes.

Practical implications

Findings indicate the positive impact of incorporating people’s lived experience into the design and delivery of mental health literacy programmes. Findings highlight key facilitator characteristics and support needs when recruiting facilitators to deliver programmes. This includes good facilitation skills alongside personal experiences.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first large study examining satisfaction with a co-facilitated mental health literacy programme for the general public.
The structural relationships among spatial presence, situational interest and behavioral attitudes toward online virtual museum navigation: a PLS-SEM analysis
Authors: Cheng Kun-Hung
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study proposed a research model for verifying the structural relationships among users' perceived spatial presence (VR affordance), situational interest (affective factor) and behavioral attitudes (outcome) toward online virtual museum navigation. What role of situational interest plays in the relationships between spatial presence and outcomes was further examined.

Design/methodology/approach

There were 141 adults invited to participate in the research trials on the navigation of the online virtual museum which was established by 3D space capture techniques. This study conducted a series of PLS-SEM to analyze the participants' quantitative responses to the surveys of spatial presence, situational interest and attitudes.

Findings

The testing of reliability and validity for the measurement model of this study was satisfied. The significance of users' perceived situational interest: attention demand, instant enjoyment and exploration intention when navigating the online virtual museum with perceptions of spatial presence were identified. The mediation of situational interest in the relationships between spatial presence and behavioral attitudes were also verified.

Practical implications

For the practical design of desktop-based online virtual museums, it is suggested that more engaging strategies such as narrative storytelling and gamified interaction could be integrated to enhance users' situational interest including attention demand, instant enjoyment and exploration intention.

Originality/value

Through the examination of situational interest from multiple constructs, the research model of this study advanced the conceptual framework for understanding the consequences of VR affordance in online virtual museum navigation. The theoretical contribution to verifying the mediated role of situational interest was made.
Ephedra alata extracts exerts anti-obesity, anti-hyperglycemia, anti-antipyretic and analgesic effects
Authors: Tiss Mohamed , Souiy Zoubeida , Achour Lotfi , Hamden Khaled
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study paper aims to evaluate the Phytochemical Composition, anti-obesity, anti-antipyretic and analgesic effect of Ephedra alata (Ea) extracts.

Design/methodology/approach

Obesity was induced in male Wistar rats through a high-fat/fructose diet (HF/FD). Control rats received a standard diet.

Findings

Results of this study showed that the Ea methanol extract (MEEa) exhibited a prominent selective inhibitory effect against lipase activity (IC50 = 1.29 mg/ml) as compared to water and ethyl acetate extracts (with IC50 = 1.63 and 1.89, respectively). Also, MEEa exert antipyretic and analgesic activities. In high-fat-high-fructose diet rats, the administration of MEEa inhibited lipase activity in the intestine, pancreas and serum by 53%, 40% and 53%, respectively. It was found to significantly decrease body weight by 20% (p = 0.09) and delay the absorption of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and increase HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C). In addition, MEEa efficiently decreased a-amylase activity in the intestine, pancreas and serum by 43%, 26% and 46%, respectively, and blood glucose level by 35% (p = 0.06).

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study demonstrates for the first time that MEEa are efficient in preventing obesity and hyperglycemia, pain and fever.
A slack-based DEA analysis for the world cup teams
Authors: Gökgöz Fazıl , Yalçın Engin
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the efficiency levels of World Cup teams via the slack-based data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach, which contributes to filling an important gap for performance measurement in football.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on a comparative analysis of the past two World Cups. The authors initially estimate the efficiency of the World Cup teams via the slack-based DEA approach, which is a novel approach for sports performance measurement. The authors also present the conventional DEA results to compare results. The authors also include improvement ratios, which provide significant details for inefficient countries to enhance their efficiency. Besides, the authors include effectiveness ratings to present a complete performance overview of the World Cup teams.

Findings

According to the analysis results of the slack-based DEA approach, titleholder Germany and France are found as efficient teams in the 2014 and 2018 World Cup, respectively. Besides, Belgium and Russia recorded the highest efficiency improvement in the 2018 World Cup. The novel approach for sports performance measurement, the slack-based DEA approach, significantly overlaps with the actual performance of teams.

Originality/value

This study presents novelty in football performance by adopting the slack-based DEA with an undesirable output model for the performance measurement of the World Cup teams. This empirical analysis would be a pioneer study measuring the performance of football teams via the slack-based DEA approach.
Morphology of the suckers for hunting behavior in broadclub cuttlefish (Sepia latimanus)
Authors: Omura Ayano , Ikeda Yuzuru
Published: November 2021

Cuttlefish has eight arms and two tentacles that it uses to catch prey. Cuttlefish finds prey, extends its tentacles, catches the prey using tentacular clubs, and retracts the prey. After retraction, the cuttlefish holds and transfers the prey to its mouth using its arms. Since this efficient unique predation is one of the significant factors that have made the cuttlefish a keystone species in marine food ecosystems, many behavioral studies have been conducted. However, the morphological benefit of the sucker on the arms and tentacles for capturing behavior is poorly understood. Here, we observed the relationship between the morphology and function of the arm and tentacular suckers of the broadclub cuttlefish qualitatively and quantitatively. The arm sucker protrudes from the arm surface and has a shorter sucker pedicel length than that of the tentacular sucker. The longest point of the inner sucker ring of the arm sucker is on the aboral side. These are adaptive features to hold and transfer prey effectively from the arms to the mouth. In contrast, the tentacular sucker is stored in the groove of the tentacular club and has a longer sucker stalk length than that of the arm sucker. The longest point of the inner sucker ring of the tentacular sucker is on the outer direction of the holdfast of the tentacular stalk. These are adaptive features for the rapid retraction of moving prey. The results indicate that cuttlefish's arm and tentacular sucker structures reflect their practical use for prey capture.
Magnesium intake by enteral formulation affects serum magnesium concentration in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Kitabayashi Kou , Yamamoto Suguru , Narita Ichiei
Published: November 2021

Decreased serum magnesium levels are associated with mortality and fractures in patients with chronic kidney disease; however, there is no recommendation for Mg intake in these populations. This study used cross‐sectional analysis to examine the association between Mg intake and serum Mg levels in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Sixty‐one patients were included. The daily Mg intake was 185 mg (IQR: 151–203 mg), and serum Mg level was 2.4 mg/dL (IQR: 2.2–2.7 mg/dL). Multiple regression analysis showed that intake of enteral formulation by tube feeding was an independent factor associated with serum Mg level (B = 0.90 [95% confidence interval: 0.61–1.20], p < 0.01). These findings may aid in serum Mg level management through diet and enteral formulation in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
The cost and impact of distributing naloxone to people who are prescribed opioids to prevent opioid‐related deaths: findings from a modelling study
Authors: Nielsen Suzanne , Scott Nick , Tidhar Tom , Quiroga Maria del Mar , Lenton Simon , Dietze Paul
Published: November 2021

Background and aims

Although most opioid‐related mortality in Australia involves prescription opioids, most research to understand the impact of naloxone supply on opioid‐related mortality has focused upon people who inject heroin. We aimed to examine the cost and probable impact of up‐scaling naloxone supply to people who are prescribed opioids.

Design

Decision‐tree model. Four scenarios were compared with a baseline scenario (the current status quo): naloxone scale‐up between 2020 and 2030 to reach 30 or 90% coverage by 2030, among the subgroups of people prescribed either ≥ 50 or ≥ 100 mg of oral morphine equivalents (OME).

Setting

Australia.

Participants

People who are prescribed opioids.

Measurements

Possible deaths averted, costs (ambulance and naloxone distribution) and cost per life saved for different scenarios of naloxone scale‐up.

Findings

Maintaining the status quo, there would be an estimated 7478 [uncertainty interval (UI) = 6868–8275] prescription opioid overdose deaths between 2020 and 2030, resulting in Australian dollars (A$)51.9 million (49.4, 56.0) in ambulance costs. If naloxone were scaled‐up to 90% of people prescribed > 50 mg OME, an estimated 657 (UI = 245, 1489) deaths could be averted between 2020 and 2030 (a 20% reduction in the final year of the model compared with the no naloxone scenario), with a cost of A$43 600 (20 800–110 500) per life saved. If naloxone were scaled‐up to 30% of people prescribed > 50 mg OME an estimated 219 (82–496) deaths could be averted with the same cost per live saved. If naloxone were restricted to those prescribed > 100 mg OME, an estimated 130 (UI = 44–289) deaths would be averted if scaled‐up to 30% or 390 (UI = 131–866) deaths averted if scaled‐up to 90%, with the cost per life saved for both scenarios A$38 200 (UI = 12 400–97 400).

Conclusion

In Australia, scaling‐up take‐home naloxone by 2030 to reach 90% of people prescribed daily doses of ≥ 50 mg of oral morphine equivalents would be cost‐effective and save more than 650 lives.
Revision of Xiphydriinae (Hymenoptera: Xiphydriidae) of Australia
Authors: Jennings John T , Macdonald John A , Schiff Nathan M , Parslow Ben A
Published: November 2021

We re‐diagnoseRhysacephalaBenson, 1954, a genus of xiphydriid woodwasps confined to eastern mainland Australia, Tasmania and Lord Howe Island.Rhysacephala leai(Forsius, 1927), including the first description of the female,Rhysacephala obtusiventris(Rohwer, 1918), andRhysacephala wilsoniBenson, 1954 are redescribed. Six new species from eastern Australia are described:Rhysacephala amplipretarsusJennings, Parslow & Macdonald,sp. nov.,Rhysacephala fulvaJennings, Parslow & Macdonald,sp. nov.,Rhysacephala impensaJennings, Parslow & Macdonald,sp. nov.,Rhysacephala monteithiJennings, Parslow & Macdonald,sp. nov.,Rhysacephala phalarosJennings, Parslow & Macdonald,sp. nov.andRhysacephala tenebrilataJennings, Parslow & Macdonald,sp. nov.A monotypic genus,AustroxiphydaJennings, Macdonald, Schiff & Parslow,gen. nov., is established and includesAustroxiphyda lasalleiJennings, Macdonald, Schiff & Parslow,sp. nov.Keys to identify the 12 Australian species of Xiphydriinae are provided.
New bee species from northern Queensland, Australia (Hymenoptera: Colletidae, Halictidae, Megachilidae)
Authors: Leijs Remko , Hogendoorn Katja
Published: November 2021

Five new species of bees are described from the Quinkan region of Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, Australia: Austrothurgus nanus sp. nov. (Megachilidae), Nomia (Paulynomia) eburata sp. nov. (Halictidae), Leioproctus (Protomorpha) quinkanensis sp. nov., Chrysocolletes loripes sp. nov., Chrysocolletes aureus sp. nov. (Colletidae). A sixth species, Chrysocolletes doreyi sp. nov. (Colletidae), is described from Walker Creek, East of Karumba in the Gulf Country, Queensland. Most descriptions are associated with DNA‐barcodes. Modified identification keys and image plates with diagnostic characters are provided.
What Animates Place for Children? A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Bodenhorn Barbara , Lee Elsa
Published: November 2021

Drawing on comparative work in primary schools in East Anglia (United Kingdom), Oaxaca (Mexico), and the North Slope of Alaska (United States), we explore what children mean when they say places are “special” to them. Focusing on information gathered during walks designed and guided by these children, we examine the experiential, affective, communicative, and dynamic bases of relationality between children and their surroundings. We set out how effective curriculum design can productively incorporate such knowledge.
Comparative analysis of the small and large intestines of Acará Geophagus brasiliensis (Quoy & Gaimard, 1824) (Pisces: Cichlidae)
Authors: Chaves Ana Paula Gorle de Miranda , Oliveira Maurício Gustavo , Paschoalini Alessandro Loureiro , Bazzoli Nilo , Santos José Enemir dos
Published: November 2021

Geophagus brasiliensis, popularly known as acará, is a common fish in lentic freshwater environments in South America. This species has a detritivorous‐iliophagous or omnivorous feeding habit, with high food plasticity; however, there are no studies describing its intestinal tract histologically. Therefore, the present study analysed through histological and histochemical techniques the intestines of the acará. Adult specimens were collected with gillnets, anaesthetized and euthanized. Then, the fish were submitted to biometry and dissection to remove fragments of intestines. The samples were fixed in Bouin liquid for 12 hours and subjected to histological and histochemical techniques. Histologically, all samples of intestines were organized into four layers: mucosa, submucosa, muscular and serosa. The small intestine (foregut and midgut) was characterized by the presence of intestinal villi covered by simple prismatic epithelium with a striated border and goblet cells supported by the connective lamina propria. In the large intestine (hindgut), there was an absence of villi and an abundance of goblet cells. Positive reaction to Periodic Acid–Schiff (PAS) and Alcian Blue (AB) pH 2.5 reactions were detected in goblet cells, indicating the presence of mucosubstances. No lipids were detected in the intestine cells due to the negative reaction to the Sudan Black B. The results of the present study provide subsidies for a better understanding of the intestinal morphology of teleosts and provide valuable information for phylogenetic studies.
A scoping review of maternal near miss assessment in Australia, New Zealand, South‐East Asia and the South Pacific region: How, what, why and where to?
Authors: Jayaratnam Skandarupan , Franklin Richard , de Costa Caroline
Published: November 2021

Background

Severe maternal morbidity or maternal near miss (MNM) events can have significant consequences for individuals, their families and society and the study of these events may inform practices to reduce future adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Aims

To review the scope of MNM studies undertaken in Australia, New Zealand, South‐East Asia and the South Pacific region.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search of four online databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and CINAHL) and the World Health Organization Library was conducted to identify all relevant studies published between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2020. The studies were reviewed and included if they assessed MNM using a composite outcome or a predefined set of indicators.

Results

The literature search yielded 143 articles of which 49 are included in this review. There were substantial differences in the monitoring approach to MNM in the Australasian region. Overall rates of MNM in the region ranged from two to 100/1000 births and the most common aetiologies identified were direct obstetric causes such as postpartum haemorrhage, pre‐eclampsia and sepsis. Multidisciplinary review indicated a substantial number of MNM cases were preventable or amenable to improved management, mostly from a provider perspective.

Conclusions

Assessment of MNM is an important part of the evaluation of maternity care provision. Reaching a consensus on indicators and how best to collect information will allow a more discerning assessment of MNM including longer‐term health outcomes, aspects of preventability and financial implications for health services.
Cancer in thyroglossal duct cysts
Authors: Wong Jessica , Lee James C. , Grodski Simon , Yeung Meei , Serpell Jonathan
Published: November 2021

Background

Thyroglossal duct cysts (TDC) account for 7% of midline neck swellings. TDC carcinoma (TDCC) is rare, reported in 1% of all TDCs. We aimed to describe the incidence of TDCC, the accuracy of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), and to identify suspicious, predictive ultrasound (USG) features.

Method

A cross sectional study of TDC patients in the Monash University Endocrine Surgery Database from 2001 to 2021.

Results

Eighty‐six patients had surgery for TDC, of median age 48 and a female preponderance (62%). Preoperative USG was used in 85% and FNAC in 57%. There were six cases (7%) of TDCC with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). USG in five TDCC cases showed a solid nodule within the cyst wall. FNAC was undertaken in five TDCC cases from the solid nodule; malignant in one and suspicious for malignancy in two. Two TDCC patients had concurrent total thyroidectomy (TT), and three subsequently had a TT. Multifocal thyroid PTC was found in two patients. One patient had a recurrence in the lateral lymph nodes, nine years after excision of the TDCC and TT. All patients are alive and well with no distant metastases (median follow up 11 years).

Conclusion

The 7% incidence of TDCC is higher than the usually reported 1% in the literature. We recommend a preoperative USG to evaluate the TDC, thyroid gland and cervical lymph nodes, and an FNAC to target the solid component of the TDC, and favour total thyroidectomy for all patients with TDCC.
Activation of D1/D5 receptors ameliorates decreased intrinsic excitability of hippocampal neurons induced by neonatal blockade of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors
Authors: Griego Ernesto , Hernández‐Frausto Melissa , Márquez Luis A. , Lara‐Valderrabano Leonardo , López Rubalcava Carolina , Galván Emilio J.
Published: November 2021

Background and Purpose

Dysregulation of dopaminergic transmission combined with transient hypofunction of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) is a key mechanism that may underlie cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia.

Experimental Approach

Therefore, we aimed to identify electrophysiologic alterations in animals neonatally treated with the NMDA receptor antagonist, MK‐801, or with saline solution.

Key Results

Patch‐clamp whole‐cell recordings from MK‐801‐treated animals revealed altered passive and active electrophysiologic properties compared with CA1 pyramidal cells from saline‐treated animals, including up‐regulation of the K+ inward‐rectifier conductance and fast‐inactivating and slow/non‐inactivating K+ currents. Up‐regulation of these membrane ionic currents reduced the overall excitability and altered the firing properties of CA1 pyramidal cells. We also explored the capability of cells treated with MK‐801 to express intrinsic excitability potentiation, a non‐synaptic form of hippocampal plasticity associated with cognition and memory formation. CA1 pyramidal cells from animals treated with MK‐801 were unable to convey intrinsic excitability potentiation and had blunted synaptic potentiation. Furthermore, MK‐801‐treated animals also exhibited reduced cognitive performance in the Barnes maze task. Notably, activation of D1/D5 receptors with SKF‐38,393 partially restored electrophysiologic alterations caused by neonatal treatment with MK‐801.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results offer a molecular and mechanistic explanation based on dysregulation of glutamatergic transmission, in addition to dopaminergic transmission, that may contribute to the understanding of the cognitive deterioration associated with schizophrenia.