bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fungal arrestin protein contributes to cell cycle progression and pathogenesis
Authors: Telzrow Calla L. , Nichols Connie B. , Castro-Lopez Natalia , Wormley Floyd L. , Alspaugh J. Andrew
Published: October 2019

Arrestins, a structurally specialized and functionally diverse group of proteins, are central regulators of adaptive cellular responses in eukaryotes. Previous studies on fungal arrestins have demonstrated their capacity to modulate diverse cellular processes through their adaptor functions, facilitating the localization and function of other proteins. However, the mechanisms by which arrestin-regulated processes are involved in fungal virulence remain unexplored. We have identified a small family of four arrestins - Ali1, Ali2, Ali3, and Ali4 - in the human fungal pathogenCryptococcus neoformans. Using complementary microscopy, proteomic, and reverse genetic techniques, we have defined a role for Ali1 as a novel contributor to cytokinesis, a fundamental cell cycle-associated process. We observed that Ali1 strongly interacts with proteins involved in lipid synthesis, and thatali1Δ mutant phenotypes are rescued by supplementation with lipid precursors that are used to build cellular membranes. From these data, we hypothesize that Ali1 contributes to cytokinesis by serving as an adaptor protein, facilitating the localization of enzymes that modify the plasma membrane during cell division, specifically the fatty acid synthases, Fas1 and Fas2. Finally, we assessed the contributions of theC. neoformansarrestin family to virulence, to better understand the mechanisms by which arrestin-regulated adaptive cellular responses influence fungal infection. We observed that theC. neoformansarrestin family contributes to virulence, and that the individual arrestin proteins likely fulfill distinct functions that are important for disease progression.

IMPORTANCE

To survive in unpredictable conditions, all organisms must adapt to stressors by regulating adaptive cellular responses. Arrestin proteins are conserved regulators of adaptive cellular responses in eukaryotes. Studies that have been limited to mammals and model fungi have demonstrated that disruption of arrestin-regulated pathways is detrimental for viability. The human fungal pathogenCryptococcus neoformanscauses more than 180,000 infection-related deaths annually, especially among immunocompromised patients. In addition to being genetically-tractable,C. neoformanshas a small arrestin family of four members, lending itself to a comprehensive characterization of its arrestin family. This study serves as a functional analysis of arrestins in a pathogen, particularly in the context of fungal fitness and virulence. We investigate the functions of one arrestin protein, Ali1, and define its novel contributions to cytokinesis. We additionally explore the virulence contributions of theC. neoformansarrestin family and find that they contribute to disease establishment and progression.
Ultra-high field imaging reveals increased whole brain connectivity underpins cognitive strategies that attenuate pain
Authors: Schulz Enrico , Stankewitz Anne , Winkler Anderson M , Irving Stephanie , Witkovsky Viktor , Tracey Irene
Published: October 2019

We investigate how the attenuation of pain with cognitive interventions affects the strength of cortical connections by pursuing a whole brain approach. While receiving tonic cold pain, 20 healthy participants were asked to utilise three different pain attenuation strategies. During a 7T fMRI recording, participants were asked to rate their pain after each single trial. We related the trial-by-trial variability of the attenuation performance to the trial-by-trial functional connectivity of the cortical data.

Across all conditions, we found that a higher performance of pain attenuation was predominantly associated with higher functional connectivity. Of note, we observed an association between low pain and high connectivity for regions that belong to the core areas of pain processing, i.e. the insular and cingulate cortices. For one of the cognitive strategies (safe place), the performance of pain attenuation was explained by diffusion tensor imaging metrics of increased white matter integrity.

Impact Statement

In a single trial analysis, the more effective attempts to attenuate pain in three different conditions are associated with general higher functional connectivity across the entire brain.
The Effects of Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Plasma (L-Prp) and Pure Platelet-Rich Plasma (P-Prp) an a Rat Endometriosis Model
Authors: Anğın Ali Doğukan , Gün İsmet , Sakin Önder , Çıkman Muzaffer Seyhan , Pirioğlu Zehra Meltem , Kale Ahmet , Başak Kayhan , Kaygın Pınar , Oğuztüzün Serpil
Published: October 2019

Our aim was to investigate the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derivatives, which can be produced from the patient’s own blood and have minimal side effects, on endometriosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in the literature that studies the relationship between PRP and endometriosis. Endometriosis foci were created in the first operation. In the second operation (30th day) groups were formed. Group 1 (n= 8) was administered saline, group 2 (n= 7) leukocyte- and platelet-rich plasma (L-PRP), and group 3 (n= 8) pure platelet-rich plasma (P-PRP). Group 4 (n= 10) was used to obtain PRP. In the last operation (60th day), the endometriotic foci were measured, and then excised. There was no statistically significant difference between the pre and post volumes of the endometriotic foci, between their volume differences and volume difference rates (p > .05). However, it was observed that existing implant volumes in all groups decreased statistically significantly within their own groups by the end of the experiment compared to the previous volumes (p < .05). When the implants were assessed through histopathological scoring in terms of edema, vascular congestion, inflammatory cell infiltration, hemorrhage, epithelial line, and hemosiderin accumulation and immunohistochemical staining in terms of VEGF, there was no significant difference in the comparison between the groups. Although L-PRP and P-PRP generated more reduction in the endometriosis foci, they did not create any statistical differences.
The protein translation machinery is expressed for maximal efficiency inEscherichia coli
Authors: Hu Xiao-Pan , Dourado Hugo , Lercher Martin J.
Published: October 2019

Protein synthesis is the most expensive process in fast-growing bacteria1,2. The economic aspects of protein synthesis at the cellular level have been investigated by estimating ribosome activity3–5and the expression of ribosomes3,6, tRNA7–9, mRNA2, and elongation factors10,11. The observed growth-rate dependencies form the basis of powerful phenomenological bacterial growth laws5,12–16; however, a quantitative theory allowing us to understand these phenomena on the basis of fundamental biophysical and biochemical principles is currently lacking. Here, we show that the observed growth-rate dependence of the concentrations of ribosomes, tRNAs, mRNA, and elongation factors inEscherichia colican be predicted accurately by minimizing cellular costs in a detailed mathematical model of protein translation; the mechanistic model is only constrained by the physicochemical properties of the molecules and requires no parameter fitting. We approximate the costs of molecule species through their masses, justified by the observation that cellular dry mass per volume is roughly constant across growth rates17and hence represents a limited resource. Our results also account quantitatively for observed RNA/protein ratios and ribosome activities inE. coliacross diverse growth conditions, including antibiotic stresses. Our prediction of active and free ribosome abundance facilitates an estimate of the deactivated ribosome reserve14,18,19, which reaches almost 50% at the lowest growth rates. We conclude that the growth rate dependent composition ofE coli’s protein synthesis machinery is a consequence of natural selection for minimal total cost under physicochemical constraints, a paradigm that might generally be applied to the analysis of resource allocation in complex biological systems.
How flexible is tool use in Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius)?
Authors: Amodio Piero , Boeckle Markus , Jelbert Sarah A. , Ostoijc Ljerka , Clayton Nicola S.
Published: October 2019

Eurasian jays (Garrulus glandarius) do not habitually use tools, yet they can be trained to solve object-dropping tasks, i.e. to insert a tool into an apparatus to release a food reward. Previous research suggests the these jays can learn a preference toward functional tools – objects allowing to obtain a food reward placed inside an apparatus – according to their density (Cheke et al., 2011). However, it is not yet known whether they can also select functional tools (tool selectivity) according to other physical properties such as size and shape, and use different kinds of tools to solve a similar task. Here we conducted three object-dropping experiments aimed at exploring these abilities in Eurasian jays. In Experiment 1, jays tended to select large stones as tools irrespective of the diameter of the apparatus. However, jays progressively developed a preference for the small tool, which was functional with both the wide and the narrow apparatuses. In Experiment 2, only vertically-oriented long stones could fit into the narrow apparatus, whereas both long and round stones were functional with the wide apparatus. Jays showed a preference for the long stone and, with the narrow apparatus, tended to achieve the correct manipulation after one or more unsuccessful attempts. In Experiment 3, jays were able to use sticks and adopt a novel technique on the same object-dropping apparatus, thus providing the first evidence that Eurasian jays can use sticks as tools. Taken together, these results indicate that Eurasian jays may have limited tool selectivity abilities but nonetheless can use different kinds of tools to solve similar tasks.
Accounting and the business of sport: past, present and future
Authors: Andon Paul , Free Clinton
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine prominent issues and knowledge contributions from research exploring the nexus between accounting and the business of sport, overview the other papers presented in this AAAJ Special Issue and draw from this work to scope out future impactful research opportunities in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

A review and examination of the prior literature and the other papers published in this AAAJ Special Issue.

Findings

The paper identifies and summarises three key research themes in the extant literature: financial regulation and assurance; commercialisation and professionalism; and accountability and control. Then it draws from work within these research themes to set out four broad areas for future impactful research.

Research limitations/implications

The value of this paper rests with collating and synthesising several important research issues on the nexus between accounting (broadly defined) and the business of sport, and in prompting future extensions of this work through setting out areas for further innovative accounting research on sport.

Practical implications

The research examined in this paper and the future research avenues proposed are highly relevant to administrators and regulators in sport. They also offer important insights into matters of accounting, accountability, valuation and control more generally.

Originality/value

This paper adds to vibrant existing streams of research in the area by bringing together authors from different areas of accounting research for this AAAJ Special Issue. In scoping out an agenda for impactful research at the intersection of accounting and sport, this paper also draws attention to underexplored issues pertaining to the rise of integrity and accountability concerns in sport, strategic choices in financial regulation, valuation issues and practices and the rise of technology in sport.
Health education for deaf Romanian children: parents’ opinions
Authors: Ionescu Laura , Ursache Lacramioara , Nicolae Adelina , Conea Adriana , Potora Cristian , Stan Ovidiu , Lotrean Lucia Maria
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on parents of children with hearing disabilities from Romania and has three objectives. First, it assesses their characteristics regarding use of communication technology. Second, it investigates their opinions regarding the importance of school-based education for healthy lifestyle promotion among their children. Third, it evaluates the availability for their involvement in educational activities using face-to-face approach and communication technology dedicated to helping parents to promote healthy lifestyle among their children, as well as factors which influence this availability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was performed in October–November 2015 in two schools deserving children with hearing disabilities from North-West part of Romania. Anonymous questionnaire were filled in by 182 parents.

Findings

The majority of parents recognize the importance of school-based health education and more than 77 per cent totally agree that it should include issues regarding healthy nutrition, promotion of physical activity and smoking prevention. In total, 80.2 per cent of the parents declared that they are interested to participate in educational activities organized periodically at school and 66.5 per cent declared their interest in educational activities developed through communication technology in order to help them to stimulate the adoption of healthy lifestyle among their children. The availability was influenced by residence, educational level, understanding the importance of parents’ involvement, characteristics regarding the use of communication technology.

Originality/value

This represents the first study from Romania investigating the opinions and availability for their involvement with regard to school health education among parents of children with hearing deficiencies. The results have several implications for health education among children with hearing deficiencies and their parents.
Factors affecting the spatial pattern of nitrate contamination in Texas aquifers
Authors: Lotfata Aynaz , Ambinakudige Shrinidhi
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The elevated level of nitrate in groundwater is a serious problem in Texas aquifers. To control and manage groundwater quality, the characterization of groundwater contamination and identification of the factors affecting the nitrate concentration of groundwater are significant. The purpose of this paper is to determine factors which have significant impacts on the elevated groundwater nitrate concentrations of the Southern High-Plains and the Edwards-Trinity aquifers.

Design/methodology/approach

The characterization of groundwater nitrate contamination was undertaken by analyzing the hydrochemical data of groundwater within a statistical framework. The multivariate statistical analysis (ordinary least square) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) models were used to study the relationship between groundwater nitrate contamination and land use of the study areas.

Findings

Results show groundwater nitrate contamination is typically due to an overapplication of N fertilizers to cotton in the Southern High-Plains aquifer and to grassland in the Edwards-Trinity aquifer. Adjusted R2 (0.45) explains variations of nitrate concentration by well-depth, cotton production, shrubland and grassland in the Edwards-Trinity aquifer. The results of an analysis of variations in N concentration with well depth for all 192 wells indicate that nitrate concentrations in water from wells in the Southern High-Plains and Edwards-Trinity aquifers tend to decrease with increasing well-depth.

Originality/value

In this study, the GWR model was built to identify nitrate concentration within a geographic framework to ensure sustainable use of groundwater, which is important for local management purposes. The analysis should include local spatial variations of elements such as hydrologic characteristics and the land use activities if groundwater nitrate contamination causes adverse effects on human and ecosystem health.
Use of the SF‐12 questionnaire to assess physical and mental health status in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Sampogna Francesca , Mastroeni Simona , Pallotta Sabatino , Fusari Roberta , Uras Claudia , Napolitano Monica , Abeni Damiano
Published: October 2019

Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in psoriasis patients is generally measured using disease‐ or dermatology‐specific questionnaires. Our objective was to use the generic 12‐item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐12) instrument to measure the physical and mental impact of psoriasis and to compare scores with those already published for different diseases. An observational study was conducted among mild‐to‐severe psoriasis outpatients. Health status was assessed by the SF‐12, which includes a physical (PCS) and a mental (MCS) scale. The 12‐item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ‐12) was used to assess the possible presence of depression or anxiety, and the Skindex‐17 to measure dermatology‐specific HRQoL. Statistical analyses were performed to estimate the association between physical and mental health status and demographic and clinical characteristics. The study population included 1592 patients. Psoriasis PCS scores were similar to the general population and to non‐severe diseases such as allergies, dermatitis, or back pain, while MCS mean scores were very similar to that of depression, and lower than those of all the other chronic conditions. Poor physical health was associated with female sex, older age, lower educational level, joint involvement, ≥2 comorbidities, moderate to very severe clinical status, GHQ‐12 score ≥4, and moderate to severe Skindex‐17 psychosocial scores. Poor mental health was associated with younger age (<30 years), GHQ ≥ 4, and severe Skindex‐17 psychosocial scores. In conclusion, a general health measure, such as the SF‐12, appears to be able to capture, in psoriasis patients, the burden of the disease both from a physical and a mental point of view.
Effects of climate change on pup growth and survival in a cooperative mammal, the meerkat
Authors: Van de Ven Tanja M. F. N. , Fuller Andrea , Clutton‐Brock Tim H.
Published: October 2019

Breeding systems in which group members help to raise the offspring of co‐members are associated with arid, unpredictable environments. Cooperative rearing may mitigate the effects of adverse environmental conditions on pup growth and survival. However, few studies have explored the relationship between environmental variation and breeding success, and the role of helpers.

Here, we show that reductions in the growth and survival of meerkat (Suricata suricatta) pups have been associated with increases in daily maximum air temperatures (Tmax) in the southern Kalahari over the last 20 years.

On days when Tmax was high, meerkat pups gained less body mass than on cooler days. Reductions in the diurnal body mass gain (ΔMb) of pups on hotter days were not a consequence of reductions in the frequency with which pups were fed by adults as feeding rate increased with Tmax, suggesting that the reductions in ΔMb by pups on hot days reflected a decrease in water content of the food items or an increased water and energy cost of thermoregulation.

Reductions in pup ΔMb on hot days were smaller in larger groups, in which helper‐to‐pup ratios were relatively high.

As increases in air temperature are predicted with climate change, further reductions in meerkat pup growth and survival seem inevitable.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Emissions Pricing Policies and Business Cycles: Fixed vs. Variable Tax Regimes
Authors: Ramezani Fariba , Harvie Charles , Arjomandi Amir
Published: October 2019

As by‐products, emissions follow economic fluctuations. Ignoring this fact in environmental policies can lead to unexpected emissions fluctuations and an increase in intervention costs. Using a real business cycle model, we compare two policies: a fixed tax policy where the price is constant over time and a variable tax regime where the tax rate is set at the beginning of each period. We find that while both programs result in lower emissions, a variable tax regime is preferable since first, it can ensure that the maximum welfare is always achieved, and second, it is more effective in stabilising emissions.
Social Desirability Bias Impacts Self‐Reported Alcohol Use Among Persons With HIV in Uganda
Authors: Adong Julian , Fatch Robin , Emenyonu Nneka I. , Cheng Debbie M. , Muyindike Winnie R. , Ngabirano Christine , Kekibiina Allen , Woolf‐King Sarah E. , Samet Jeffrey H. , Hahn Judith A.
Published: October 2019

Background

Self‐report is widely used to assess alcohol use in research and clinical practice, but may be subject to social desirability bias. We aimed to determine if social desirability impacts self‐reported alcohol use.

Methods

Among 751 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected patients from a clinic in southwestern Uganda, we measured social desirability using the Marlowe–Crowne Social Desirability Scale (SDS) Short Form C, self‐reported alcohol use (prior 3 months) Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test—Consumption (AUDIT‐C), and phosphatidylethanol (PEth), a biomarker of prior 3 weeks’ drinking. We conducted multiple regression analyses to assess the relationship between SDS score (low, medium, and high levels) and (i) any self‐reported recent alcohol use, among those who were PEth‐positive (≥8 ng/ml), and (ii) continuous AUDIT‐C score, among those reporting any recent alcohol use. We controlled for PEth level, age, gender, education, economic assets, marital status, religion, spirituality/religiosity, social support, and study cohort.

Results

Of 751 participants, 59% were women; the median age was 31 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 26 to 39). Median SDS score was 9 (IQR: 4 to 10). Two‐thirds (62%) self‐reported any recent alcohol use; median AUDIT‐C was 1 (IQR: 0 to 4). Among those who were PEth‐positive (57%), 13% reported no recent alcohol use. Those with the highest SDS tertile had decreased odds of reporting any recent alcohol use compared to the lowest tertile, but the association did not reach statistical significance in multivariable analyses (adjusted odds ratio 0.55 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25, 1.23]). Among participants self‐reporting recent alcohol use, SDS level was negatively associated with AUDIT‐C scores (adjusted β: −0.70 [95% CI: −1.19, −0.21] for medium vs. low SDS and −1.42 [95% CI: −2.05, −0.78] for high vs. low SDS).

Conclusions

While use of objective measures (e.g., alcohol biomarkers) is desirable for measuring alcohol use, SDS scores may be used to adjust self‐reported drinking levels by participants’ level of social desirability in HIV research studies.
Locational effects and the cost of corporate bonds: the role of information
Authors: Hu Tao , Hu Xiaolu , Huang Haozhi , Shi Jing , Wang Hua
Published: October 2019

The public yield spreads of bonds vary widely between Chinese provinces/municipalities, with the average for the highest province double that of the lowest one. Although we find that these patterns are mainly attributable to economic and legal conditions, locational effects like geographic distance and public firm credit ratings also appear to be contributory. We show that these effects are induced by different regional informational environments and are robust to controlling for potential endogenous location choices.
‘Standard THC units’: a proposal to standardize dose across all cannabis products and methods of administration
Authors: Freeman Tom P. , Lorenzetti Valentina
Published: October 2019

Background and Aims

Cannabis products are becoming increasingly diverse, and vary considerably in concentrations of ∆9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Higher doses of THC can increase the risk of harm from cannabis, while CBD may partially offset some of these effects. Lower Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines currently lack recommendations based on quantity of use, and could be improved by implementing standard units. However, there is currently no consensus on how units should be measured or standardized among different cannabis products or methods of administration.

Argument

Existing proposals for standard cannabis units have been based on specific methods of administration (e.g. joints) and these may not capture other methods, including pipes, bongs, blunts, dabbing, vaporizers, vape pens, edibles and liquids. Other proposals (e.g. grams of cannabis) cannot account for heterogeneity in THC concentrations among different cannabis products. Similar to alcohol units, we argue that standard cannabis units should reflect the quantity of primary active pharmacological constituents (dose of THC). On the basis of experimental and ecological data, public health considerations and existing policy, we propose that a ‘standard THC unit’ should be fixed at 5 mg THC for all cannabis products and methods of administration. If supported by sufficient evidence in future, consumption of standard CBD units might offer an additional strategy for harm reduction.

Conclusions

Standard ∆9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) units can potentially be applied among all cannabis products and methods of administration to guide consumers and promote safer patterns of use.
A Matter of Trust: The Ashby Research Service and the Business of Market Research
Authors: Crawford Robert
Published: October 2019

As Australia's pioneering market research firm, the Ashby Research Service helped introduce market research to Australian businesses and played a leading role in building confidence in market research as a business investment. By examining the firm's activities and organisational operations from the 1930s to the 1970s, this article contends that the establishment, development, maintenance, and deepening of trust underpinned all aspects of the firm's operations – from internal practices to externally focused client relations. The long‐term approach also illustrates the multiplicity of factors contributing to the development of trust in business, and underscores the importance of culture in this process.
Donors, Primary Elections, and Polarization in the United States
Authors: Kujala Jordan
Published: October 2019

I examine the influence of partisan donors on the district‐level ideological polarization of congressional candidates in the United States. I use data from 2002–10 U.S. House elections, which provide for the placement of major party primary winners on the same ideological dimension as their primary, general election, and partisan donor constituencies. Using this unique data set, I find strong evidence that the influence of donors in nominating contests is a source of polarization in the United States. House nominees are more responsive to their donor constituencies than either their primary or general electorates. I also find some evidence that the lack of general election competition affects nominee extremity. In safer districts, Democratic incumbents appear more responsive to donors. However, Republican donors seem to demand proximity regardless of district competitiveness. Overall, the polarizing effects of donor constituencies dominate any moderating effects, resulting in ideologically extreme nominees and, ultimately, members of Congress.
A comparative study of engagement in mobile and wearable health monitoring for bipolar disorder
Authors: Van Til Kaela , McInnis Melvin G. , Cochran Amy
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Self‐monitoring is recommended for individuals with bipolar disorder, with numerous technological solutions available. This study aimed to identify basic components of these solutions that increase engagement with self‐monitoring.

Methods

Participants with bipolar disorder (n = 47) monitored their symptoms with a Fitbit and a smartphone app and were randomly assigned to either review or not review recorded symptoms weekly. We tested whether individuals would better adhere to and prefer monitoring with passive monitoring with an activity tracker compared to active monitoring with a smartphone app and whether individuals would better adhere to self‐monitoring if their recorded symptoms were reviewed with an interviewer.

Results

Monitoring with a smartphone app achieved similar adherence and preference to Fitbit (P > .85). Linear mixed effects modeling found adherence decreased significantly more over the study for the Fitbit (12% more, P < .001) even though more participants reported they would use the Fitbit over a year compared to the app (72.3% vs 46.8%). Reviewing symptoms weekly did not improve adherence, but most participants reported they would prefer to review symptoms with a clinician (74.5%) and on monthly basis (57.5%) compared to alternatives. Participants endorsed sleep as the most important symptom to monitor, forgetfulness as the largest barrier to self‐monitoring, and raising self‐awareness as the best reason for self‐monitoring.

Conclusions

We recommend a combined strategy of wearable and mobile monitoring that includes reminders, targets raising self‐awareness, and tracks sleep. A clinician may want to review symptoms on a monthly basis.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03358238.
Prophylactic closure and hemostasis using grasping forceps and endoloop for duodenal polypectomy
Authors: Suzuki Sho , Horii Toshiki , Shibuya Hitoshi
Published: October 2019

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Long‐term chemogenetic suppression of spontaneous seizures in a mouse model for temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Desloovere Jana , Boon Paul , Larsen Lars E. , Merckx Caroline , Goossens Marie‐Gabrielle , Van den Haute Chris , Baekelandt Veerle , De Bundel Dimitri , Carrette Evelien , Delbeke Jean , Meurs Alfred , Vonck Kristl , Wadman Wytse , Raedt Robrecht
Published: October 2019

Objective

More than one‐third of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) continue to have seizures despite treatment with antiepileptic drugs, and many experience severe drug‐related side effects, illustrating the need for novel therapies. Selective expression of inhibitory Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs) allows cell‐type‐specific reduction of neuronal excitability. In this study, we evaluated the effect of chemogenetic suppression of excitatory pyramidal and granule cell neurons of the sclerotic hippocampus in the intrahippocampal mouse model (IHKA) for temporal lobe epilepsy.

Methods

Intrahippocampal IHKA mice were injected with an adeno‐associated viral vector carrying the genes for an inhibitory DREADD hM4Di in the sclerotic hippocampus or control vector. Next, animals were treated systemically with different single doses of clozapine‐N‐oxide (CNO) (1, 3, and 10 mg/kg) and clozapine (0.03 and 0.1 mg/kg) and the effect on spontaneous hippocampal seizures, hippocampal electroencephalography (EEG) power, fast ripples (FRs) and behavior in the open field test was evaluated. Finally, animals received prolonged treatment with clozapine for 3 days and the effect on seizures was monitored.

Results

Treatment with both CNO and clozapine resulted in a robust suppression of hippocampal seizures for at least 15 hours only in DREADD‐expressing animals. Moreover, total EEG power and the number of FRs were significantly reduced. CNO and/or clozapine had no effects on interictal hippocampal EEG, seizures, or locomotion/anxiety in the open field test in non‐DREADD epileptic IHKA mice. Repeated clozapine treatment every 8 hours for 3 days resulted in almost complete seizure suppression in DREADD animals.

Significance

This study shows the potency of chemogenetics to robustly and sustainably suppress spontaneous epileptic seizures and pave the way for an epilepsy therapy in which a systemically administered exogenous drug selectively modulates specific cell types in a seizure network, leading to a potent seizure suppression devoid of the typical drug‐related side effects.
Effects of dams and their environmental impacts on the genetic diversity and connectivity of freshwater mussel populations in Poyang Lake Basin, China
Authors: Liu Xiongjun , Wu Ruiwen , Chen Xu , Zhou Yu , Yang Limin , Ouyang Shan , Wu Xiaoping
Published: October 2019

Habitat fragmentation is one of the main threats to biodiversity. Barriers to dispersal caused by anthropogenic habitat alteration may affect phylogeographic patterns in freshwater mussels. Knowledge of the phylogenetic and phylogeographic patterns of unionoids is vital to inform protection of their biodiversity.

Here, we assessed influences of dams and their environmental effects on the genetic diversity and population connectivity of a broadly distributed freshwater mussel, Nodularia douglasiae, in Poyang Lake Basin.

The results showed high genetic diversity in areas without dams and low genetic diversity in areas with dams. High genetic differentiation and low gene flow were found among the 11 populations. Genetic variation was significantly correlated with dissolved oxygen levels.

The observation of low genetic diversity in populations separated by dams indicated that those populations were subjected to genetic erosion and demographic decline because they are disconnected from other populations with higher diversity. High genetic differentiation and low gene flow among the 11 populations could be correlated with anthropogenic habitat alteration.

These results indicated that anthropogenic habitat alterations have led to the decline in freshwater mussel diversity. Therefore, we recommend maintaining favourable habitat conditions and connectivity of rivers or lakes, and strengthening study of life histories with host‐test experiments to identify potential host fish species to strengthen the knowledge base underpinning freshwater mussel conservation.
Evaluation of apically extruded debris during the removal of canal filling material using three different Ni‐Ti systems and hand files in teeth with simulated apical root resorption
Authors: Topçuoğlu H. S. , Demirbuga S. , Topçuoğlu G.
Published: October 2019

Aim

To compare the weight of apically extruded debris produced during the removal of root canal filling material using various files in extracted teeth with simulated apical root resorption.

Methodology

The root canals of one hundred and twenty extracted mandibular premolar teeth were prepared with Revo‐S files and filled using a cold lateral compaction technique with gutta‐percha and a resin‐based sealer (AdSeal; Meta‐Biomed, Cheongwon, Korea). Sixty teeth were randomly assigned to four control groups (hand file, ProTaper Universal retreatment file, D‐RaCe retreatment file, and Reciproc file) for the removal of root canal filling material. The apical portion of the remaining 60 teeth was modified to simulate apical root resoption, and the teeth were then randomly divided into 4 experimental groups (using the same techniques as in the control groups) for the removal of root canal filling material. Apically extruded debris was collected into pre‐weighed Eppendorf tubes and then dried. The mean weight of the apically extruded debris was assessed with an analytical balance to an accuracy of 10−4 g. Data were analysed using two‐way analysis of variance and a Tukey’s post hoc test.

Results

In the simulated apical root resorption groups, all file systems were associated with significantly more debris extrusion compared to the groups without simulated resorption (P < 0.05). The amount of apically extruded debris was greatest in the hand file groups compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). In the groups with simulated apical root resorption, the Reciproc system was associated with the least weight of apically extruded debris (P < 0.05), whereas there was no significant difference between the ProTaper Universal retreatment and D‐RaCe files (P > 0.05). In the groups without simulated apical root resorption, there was no significant difference between Reciproc, ProTaper Universal retreatment and D‐RaCe retreatment files (P> 0.05). The time required to remove the root canal filling material was as follows: hand file > ProTaper Universal retreatment = D‐RaCe retreatment > Reciproc (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The weight of apically extruded debris was significantly greater in teeth with simulated apical root resorption than in those teeth without simulated apical root resorption. Hand files were associated with significantly more apically extruded debris in all groups during removal of root canal filling material.
Urban–rural differences in mental health among Chinese patients with multiple chronic conditions
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Yang Cong‐Yan , Inder Kerry , Wai‐Chi Chan Sally
Published: October 2019

Mental health is impacted by social, economic, and environmental influences related to where people live. Mental health problems commonly co‐occur with long‐term physical conditions and impact individuals’ health synergistically. Multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) including mental health problems are becoming a public health challenge globally. However, there is limited information about urban–rural differences in mental health among patients with MCCs in China. The present study aimed to identify differences in mental health between urban and rural patients with MCCs. Using a cross‐sectional design, 347 patients with MCCs were recruited from a tertiary hospital in North Anhui, China. A self‐reported questionnaire, including socio‐demographic and clinical variables, the 12‐item Short‐Form survey version 2 on quality of life, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, was administered to outpatients. Findings showed that rural participants reported more symptoms of anxiety and depression and had worse mental health compared to urban participants. Unemployment status, lower educational level, more long‐term health conditions, and a higher degree of anxiety were associated with worse mental health. This study highlights disparities in mental health among patients with MCCs living in urban and rural areas of China. Appropriate mental health support programmes should be developed for patients with MCCs, especially for those living in rural areas.
The Spanish version of the Psychiatric/Mental health clinical placement survey and an assessment of Spanish student attitudes towards mental health
Authors: Juliá‐Sanchis Rocío , Cabañero‐Martínez Maria José , Cabrero‐García Julio , Congost‐Maestre Nereida , Escribano Silvia
Published: October 2019

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

The Psychiatric/Mental Health Clinical Placement Survey preplacement, validated in English and widely used, assesses nursing student attitudes towards the mental health field.

There are no validated scales in Spanish to assess students' attitudes towards mental health, nor is there evidence of attitudes in Spanish students.

What does this article add to existing knowledge?

The present study was the first to address the validity of a scale which evaluates nursing student attitudes towards mental health issues, in Spanish.

Until now, no knowledge was available on nursing student attitudes towards mental health issues in the Spanish context.

What are the implications for practice?

The results provide faculty professors with a validated tool to use to assess attitudinal changes in students, following theoretical and practical training in mental health.

To have an up‐to‐date perspective on student attitudes towards both the field of mental health and people with severe mental illness, thereby providing the opportunity to focus on those aspects requiring improvement.

Introduction

The encouragement of positive attitudes towards mental health is necessary in order to improve the quality of healthcare assistance. The attitudes of nursing students towards mental health are unknown, and there are no validated scales for their assessment.

Aims

To adapt the Psychiatric/Mental Health Clinical Placement Survey (PMHCPS) to Spanish and examine its psychometric properties; to describe the attitudes of nursing students towards the mental health field.

Method

Confirmatory factorial analysis (CFA), internal consistency and construct validity were performed. An assessment of the students' attitudes was also conducted.

Results

The CFA showed appropriate fit, and total internal consistency was adequate. With regard to construct validity, knowledge was associated with practicum mark. The students achieved above mid‐range scores for all subscales, except negative stereotypes. Gender differences were observed.

Discussion

The PMHCPS, translated to Spanish, enables the students' attitude towards the mental health field to be assessed, thus identifying those areas of student attitudes and competencies requiring improvement.

Implications for practice

To provide Spanish nursing faculties with access to a scale, with which to assess changes in student attitudes. The assessment results may then be utilized to formulate teaching methods in order to improve the quality of health care the students might provide as future nursing professionals.
The Arctic Cylindrocystis (Zygnematophyceae, Streptophyta) Green Algae are Genetically and Morphologically Diverse and Exhibit Effective Accumulation of Polyphosphate
Authors: Barcytė Dovilė , Pilátová Jana , Mojzeš Peter , Nedbalová Linda
Published: October 2019

The green algal genus Cylindrocystis is widespread in various types of environments, including extreme habitats. However, very little is known about its diversity, especially in polar regions. In the present study, we isolated seven new Cylindrocystis‐like strains from terrestrial and freshwater habitats in Svalbard (High Arctic). We aimed to compare the new isolates on a molecular (rbcL and 18S rDNA), morphological (light and confocal laser scanning microscopy), and cytological (Raman microscopy) basis. Our results demonstrated that the Arctic Cylindrocystis were not of a monophyletic origin and that the studied strains clustered within two clades (tentatively named the soil and freshwater/glacier clades) and four separate lineages. Morphological data (cell size, shape, and chloroplast morphology) supported the presence of several distinct taxa among the new isolates. Moreover, the results showed that the Arctic Cylindrocystis strains were closely related to strains originating from the temperate zone, indicating high ecological versatility and successful long‐distance dispersal of the genus. Large amounts of inorganic polyphosphate (polyP) grains were detected within the chloroplasts of the cultured Arctic Cylindrocystis strains, suggesting effective luxury uptake of phosphorus. Additionally, various intracellular structures were identified using Raman microscopy and cytochemical and fluorescent staining. This study represents the first attempt to combine molecular, morphological, ecological, and biogeographical data for Arctic Cylindrocystis. Our novel cytological observations partially explain the success of Cylindrocystis‐like microalgae in polar regions.
Mantoniella beaufortii and Mantoniella baffinensis sp. nov. (Mamiellales, Mamiellophyceae), two new green algal species from the high arctic1
Authors: Yau Sheree , Lopes dos Santos Adriana , Eikrem Wenche , Gérikas Ribeiro Catherine , Gourvil Priscillia , Balzano Sergio , Escande Marie‐Line , Moreau Hervé , Vaulot Daniel
Published: October 2019

Members of the class Mamiellophyceae comprise species that can dominate picophytoplankton diversity in polar waters. Yet, polar species are often morphologically indistinguishable from temperate species, although clearly separated by molecular features. Here we examine four Mamiellophyceae strains from the Canadian Arctic. The 18S rRNA and Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 (ITS2) gene phylogeny place these strains within the family Mamiellaceae (Mamiellales, Mamiellophyceae) in two separate clades of the genus Mantoniella. ITS2 synapomorphies support their placement as two new species, Mantoniella beaufortii and Mantoniella baffinensis. Both species have round green cells with diameter between 3 and 5 μm, one long flagellum and a short flagellum (~1 μm) and are covered by spiderweb‐like scales, making both species similar to other Mantoniella species. Morphologically, M. beaufortii and M. baffinensis are most similar to the cosmopolitan M. squamata with only minor differences in scale structure distinguishing them. Screening of global marine metabarcoding data sets indicates M. beaufortii has only been recorded in seawater and sea ice samples from the Arctic, while no environmental barcode matches M. baffinensis. Like other Mamiellophyceae genera that have distinct polar and temperate species, the polar distribution of these new species suggests they are cold or ice‐adapted Mantoniella species.
Some properties of inflation expectations in the euro area
Authors: Sorić Petar , Lolić Ivana , Matošec Marina
Published: October 2019

This paper assesses the euro area inflation expectations by examining five different survey‐based expectations indicators. The Survey of Professional Forecasters outperforms all other expectations indicators in terms of forecasting accuracy. We test the unbiasedness and efficiency of these indicators by viewing the Rational Expectations Hypothesis (REH) from a time‐varying perspective in a state space framework. Our model shows that the deviations from expectations' unbiasedness and efficiency are the most pronounced in the global financial crisis. Additionally, we offer evidence that the adaptive expectations and regressive expectations models are considerably more in line with actual data than REH.
Registered nurses' perceptions of factors influencing nursing care quality: A structural equation modeling study
Authors: Koy Virya , Yunibhand Jintana , Angsuroch Yupin , Turale Sue , Rojnawee Suwimon
Published: October 2019

Cambodia, like many other countries, is working to raise nursing care standards, including improving nurse work environments and nurse education. This descriptive, cross‐sectional study examined the factors influencing nursing care quality among 375 registered nurses from 12 government hospitals in Cambodia. The conceptual framework was modified from the Nurse Work Environment, Nurse Staffing, and Outcome Model, and five questionnaires were used. The hypothesized model fitted the empirical data and explained 12% of the variance in nursing care quality. Structural equation modeling revealed that nurse work satisfaction negatively affected nursing care quality, while the nurse practice environment and burnout had no effect. Nurse staffing had a positive direct effect on nurse work satisfaction, while nurse work satisfaction did not directly affect burnout. The results indicate that the highest impacting factors influencing nursing care quality were nurse work satisfaction and the indirect effect of nurse staffing on nursing care quality. Therefore, leaders and policymakers in government, health systems, and nursing across the country need to consider these results to enhance nursing care quality.
The use of photography in perceiving a sense in life: A phenomenological and existential approach in Mental Health Care
Authors: Sitvast Jan E. , Springer William
Published: October 2019

This article is about the therapeutic use of photography in mental health care. We will first describe the intelligent nature of perception as we understand on the basis of neurobiological research findings. We will link our interpretation of visual perception with the phenomenology of perception from the theory of Merleau‐Ponty.. Then we will discuss how patients in mental health care with mental health problems may profit by an experiential approach that is concomitant with the existential reality described by Merleau‐Ponty. The experiential approach we go into more detail is Focusing. We will demonstrate the limitations and feasibility of Focusing in the procedures of working with photography as a therapeutic medium.