bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical and Sensory Analysis of U.S. Rice Varieties Developed for the Basmati and Jasmine Markets
Authors: Bett‐Garber Karen L. , Bryant Rolfe J. , Grimm Casey C. , Chen Ming‐Hsuan , Lea Jeanne M. , McClung Anna M.
Published: March 2017

There is a steady demand for imported basmati and jasmine rice in the United States. Rice varieties that can be domestically produced and compete with these imports have been developed from basmati, jasmine, and other aromatic germplasm sources. This study evaluated differences among eight U.S. aromatic varieties and imported basmati and jasmine samples. Basmati market types (Aromatic se2, Sierra, Dellmati, and Dellrose) and jasmine market types (JES, Jasmine 85, Jazzman, and Charleston Gold) grown in Arkansas and Texas were evaluated for descriptive flavors, apparent amylose, protein, and lipid contents, pasting profile, alkali spreading value, volatiles, grain color, grain dimensions, and agronomic traits. Seven natural flavor attributes and six volatiles differentiated the varieties within the jasmine and basmati classes along with several physicochemical traits, such as pasting profiles, grain dimensions, and grain color. U.S. varieties developed for either the basmati or jasmine market all had a flavor profile and 2‐acetyl‐1‐pyrroline levels that were similar to imported jasmine. Although U.S. rice breeders have made significant progress in developing aromatic rice varieties that are photoperiod insensitive and well adapted for production in the southern United States, there are opportunities for additional improvements to more effectively compete with basmati and jasmine imports.
Screening tools to assess risk of opioid abuse in the Canadian primary healthcare setting
Authors: Muir Hollie , Seymour Fran
Published: March 2017

Opioid therapy for patients with chronic pain is increasing in frequency along with rates of opioid abuse. Many screening tools are available to assess for the risk of opioid abuse. NPs should use screening tools that are cross-validated for use in chronic pain patients in the Canadian primary healthcare setting.
Growth Arrest and DNA-damage–inducible Protein 45β-mediated DNA Demethylation of Voltage-dependent T-type Calcium Channel 3.2 Subunit Enhances Neuropathic Allodynia after Nerve Injury in Rats
Authors: Lai Cheng-Yuan , Hsieh Ming-Chun , Ho Yu-Cheng , Lee An-Sheng , Wang Hsueh-Hsiao , Cheng Jen-Kun , Chau Yat-Pang , Peng Hsien-Yu
Published: March 2017

Background

Growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β reactivates methylation-silenced neural plasticity-associated genes through DNA demethylation. However, growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β–dependent demethylation contributes to neuropathic allodynia-associated spinal plasticity remains unclear.

Methods

Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats (654 out of 659) received a spinal nerve ligation or a sham operation with or without intrathecal application of one of the following: growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β messenger RNA–targeted small interfering RNA, lentiviral vector expressing growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β, Ro 25–6981 (an NR2B-bearing N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist), or KN-93 (a calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II antagonist) were used for behavioral measurements, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, dot blots, detection of unmodified cytosine enrichment at cytosine-phosphate-guanine site, chromatin immunoprecipitation quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, and slice recordings.

Results

Nerve ligation-enhanced growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β expression (n = 6) in ipsilateral dorsal horn neurons accompanied with behavioral allodynia (n = 7). Focal knockdown of growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β expression attenuated ligation-induced allodynia (n = 7) by reducing the binding of growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β to the voltage-dependent T-type calcium channel 3.2 subunit promoter (n = 6) that decreased expression of and current mediated by the voltage-dependent T-type calcium channel 3.2 subunit (both n = 6). In addition, NR2B-bearing N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II act in an upstream cascade to increase growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β expression, hence enhancing demethylation at the voltage-dependent T-type calcium channel 3.2 subunit promoter and up-regulating voltage-dependent T-type calcium channel 3.2 subunit expression. Intrathecal administration of Ro 25–6981, KN-93, or a growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β–targeting small interfering RNA (n = 6) reversed the ligation-induced enrichment of unmodified cytosine at the voltage-dependent T-type calcium channel 3.2 subunit promoter by increasing the associated 5-formylcytosine and 5-carboxylcytosine levels.

Conclusions

By converting 5-formylcytosine or 5-carboxylcytosine to unmodified cytosine, the NR2B-bearing N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II, or growth arrest and DNA-damage–inducible protein 45β pathway facilitates voltage-dependent T-type calcium channel 3.2 subunit gene demethylation to mediate neuropathic allodynia.
Clinical Judgment Is Not Reliable for Reducing Whole-body Computed Tomography Scanning after Isolated High-energy Blunt Trauma
Authors: Mistral Thomas , Brenckmann Vivien , Sanders Laurence , Bosson Jean-Luc , Ferretti Gilbert , Thony Frederic , Galvagno Samuel M. , Payen Jean-François , Bouzat Pierre
Published: March 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to test the diagnostic performance of clinical judgment for the prediction of a significant injury with whole-body computed tomography scanning after high-energy trauma.

Methods

The authors conducted an observational prospective study in a single level-I trauma center. Adult patients were included if they had an isolated high-energy injury. Senior trauma leaders were asked to make a clinical judgment regarding the likelihood of a significant injury before performance of a whole-body computed tomography scan. Clinical judgments were recorded using a probability diagnosis scale. The primary endpoint was the diagnosis of a serious-to-critical lesion on the whole-body computed tomography scan. Diagnostic performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

Of the 354 included patients, 127 patients (36%) had at least one injury classified as abbreviated injury score greater than or equal to 3. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the clinical judgment to predict a serious-to-critical lesion was 0.70 (95% CI, 0.64 to 0.75%). The sensitivity of the clinical judgment was 82% (95% CI, 74 to 88%), and the specificity was 49% (95% CI, 42 to 55%). No patient with a strict negative clinical examination had a severe lesion (n = 19 patients). The sensitivity of the clinical examination was 100% (95% CI, 97 to 100%) and its specificity was 8% (95% CI, 5 to 13%).

Conclusions

Clinical judgment alone is not sufficient to reduce whole-body computed tomography scan use. In patients with a strictly normal physical examination, whole-body computed tomography scanning might be avoided, but this result deserves additional study in larger and more diverse populations of trauma patients.
Guided Growth: A Novel Treatment for Anterolateral Bowing of the Tibia
Authors: Kennedy Jim , O’Toole Patrick , Baker Joseph F. , Moore David
Published: March 2017

Background:

Tibial pseudoarthrosis is a source of considerable morbidity in children with neurofibromatosis. Preventing the progression of anterolateral bowing of the tibia (ALBT) to tibial pseudoarthrosis is difficult. The aim of this paper is to report the successful use of guided growth to prevent tibial pseudoarthrosis in a child with neurofibromatosis.

Methods:

With local ethical approval, we reviewed the case notes and radiographs of a child with pronounced ALBT who was treated with guided growth to correct the deformity and prevent fracture.

Results:

At 4-year follow-up guided growth has successfully corrected the deformity and prevented tibial pseudoarthrosis.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of the use of guided growth to prevent the progression of ALBT to pseudoarthrosis of the tibia in a child with neurofibromatosis.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
Telemonitoring in IVF/ICSI
Authors: Gerris Jan
Published: March 2017

Purpose of review

Traditionally, ovarian stimulation for IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection is performed by healthcare professionals, requiring the patient to make frequent visits to these centres. We describe the rationale, research findings and early clinical experience with home-based sonography for IVF patients.

Recent findings

Published experience indicates that selected patients are able to procure video sequences themselves; they value the empowerment, discretion and decreased stress involved in these visits; partner involvement increases as well.

Experience is still limited but consistently indicate patients’ willingness and competence to procure sonograms; home sonography is positive from the patients’ perspective but may be disruptive form the healthcare provider's point of view.
Team Approach Helps Patient Survive High-voltage Electric Burn
Authors: Saied Noha , Harfoush Ahmed , Ayed Tamer , Moustafa Alaa , Hassan Rania , Eldolify Ezz , Abdelaziz Hany
Published: March 2017

A 20-year-old man was subjected to high-voltage electric burn, which was occupational. The patient was admitted to AlGalaa Military Medical Complex almost 2 weeks after the accident had happened. According to Lund and Browder’s chart, the patient had a 40% total body surface area burn involving the upper limbs, anterior and posterior trunks, and the left thigh (third- and fourth-degree burns). The aim of this study was to stabilize the patient by conducting lifesaving operations in multiple scheduled sessions, bilateral below-elbow amputations, escharotomies, and excision of affected ribs and cartilages. A left latissimus dorsi flap used to cover the left side of the anterior chest wall. Skin grafting (split thickness, meshed 1:3) was done to cover the raw areas. Multiple aggressive operations by a multidisciplinary team saved the patient’s life. The victim suffered a major injury and was handicapped, but he survived. It was not necessary to replace the excised ribs with prosthesis because of the preserved sternum. An electric burn poses a burden on many people in addition to the patients themselves.
Neuron-restrictive silencer factor–mediated downregulation of μ-opioid receptor contributes to the reduced morphine analgesia in bone cancer pain
Authors: Zhu Chao , Tang Jun , Ding Tan , Chen Lei , Wang Wei , Mei Xiao-Peng , He Xiao-Tao , Wang Wen , Zhang Li-Dong , Dong Yu-Lin , Luo Zhuo-Jing
Published: March 2017

Bone cancer pain has been reported to have unique mechanisms and is resistant to morphine treatment. Recent studies have indicated that neuron-restrictive silencer factor (NRSF) plays a crucial role in modulating the expression of the μ-opioid receptor (MOR) gene. The present study elucidates the regulatory mechanisms of MOR and its ability to affect bone cancer pain. Using a sarcoma-inoculated murine model, pain behaviors that represent continuous or breakthrough pain were evaluated. Expression of NRSF in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal dorsal horn was quantified at the transcriptional and translational levels, respectively. Additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were used to detect NRSF binding to the promoter of MOR. Furthermore, NRSF was genetically knocked out by antisense oligodeoxynucleotide, and the expression of MOR and the effect of morphine were subsequently analyzed. Our results indicated that in a sarcoma murine model, NRSF expression is upregulated in dorsal root ganglion neurons, and the expression of NRSF mRNA is significantly negatively correlated with MOR mRNA expression. Additionally, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that NRSF binding to the neuron-restrictive silencer element within the promoter area of the MOR gene is promoted with a hypoacetylation state of histone H3 and H4. Furthermore, genetically knocking down NRSF with antisense oligodeoxynucleotide rescued the expression of MOR and potentiated the systemic morphine analgesia. The present results suggest that in sarcoma-induced bone cancer pain, NRSF-induced downregulation of MOR is involved in the reduction of morphine analgesia. Epigenetically, up-regulation of MOR could substantially improve the effect of system delivery of morphine.
Examining Emergency Department Treatment Processes in Severe Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ajdari Ali , Boyle Linda Ng , Kannan Nithya , Rowhani-Rahbar Ali , Wang Jin , Mink Richard , Ries Benjamin , Wainwright Mark , Groner Jonathan I. , Bell Michael J. , Giza Chris , Zatzick Douglas F. , Ellenbogen Richard G. , Mitchell Pamela H. , Rivara Frederick P. , Vavilala Monica S.
Published: March 2017

Background:

In the treatment of pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI), timely treatment of patients can affect the outcome. Our objectives were to examine the treatment process of acute pediatric TBI and the impact of non–value-added time (NVAT) on patient outcomes.

Methods:

Data for 136 pediatric trauma patients (age < 18 years) with severe TBI from 2 trauma centers in the United States were collected. A process flow and value stream map identified NVATs and their sources in the treatment process. Cluster and regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between NVAT, as a percentage of the patient's length of stay (LOS), and the patient outcome, measured by their corresponding Glasgow outcome scale.

Results:

There were 14 distinct sources of NVAT identified. A regression analysis showed that increased NVAT was associated with less favorable outcomes (relative ratio = 1.015, confidence interval = [1.002–1.029]). Specifically, 1% increase in the NVAT-to-LOS ratio was associated with a 1.5% increase in the chance of a less favorable outcome (i.e., death or vegetative state).

Conclusion:

The NVAT has a significant impact on the outcome of pediatric TBI, and every minute spent on performing non–value-added processes can lead to an increase in the likelihood of less favorable outcomes.
Hospitalist Versus Subspecialist Perspectives on Reasons, Timing, and Impact of Consultation
Authors: Pacitti Kelly , Mathew Anne , Royse Amanda , Elliott John O. , Jordan Kim
Published: March 2017

Background:

Hospitalists frequently consult medical subspecialists in the management of inpatients. Given the potential impact on health resource utilization, it is important to understand the working relationship between these groups.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey of hospitalists, n = 655, and subspecialists across Ohio (nephrologists and endocrinologists), n = 293, was conducted to investigate perceptions and communication about reasons, timing, and impact of hospital consultations.

Results:

Survey response rate was 13.3%. Hospitalists were more likely to report subspecialty request to serve as admitting physician with subsequent consultation 63.2% versus 26.7%, p < .001. Hospitalists with a daily workload ≥15 patients per day were more likely to report that this impeded their ability to manage details of patient care versus hospitalists with <15 patients per day, 53.2% versus 24.1%, p = .02, and resulted in subspecialty consultation for problems manageable by the hospitalist, 38.3% versus 6.9%, p = .003. Hospitalists were less likely than subspecialists to report major impact from consultation 50.0% versus 81.0%, p = .001 and they were more likely to report direct communication for urgent consults 97.3% versus 48.8%, p < .001.

Conclusions:

Future work should be aimed at addressing hospitalist workload, improving communication, and ensuring appropriate need and timing of consultation.
Bilateral Labyrinthine and Internal Auditory Canal Enhancement in an Infant With Severe Labyrinthine Dysplasia: A Previously Unreported Phenomenon
Authors: Anzalone Charles L. , Ho Mai Lan , Patel Neil S. , Schimmenti Lisa A. , DeJong Melissa D. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: March 2017

Objective:

To describe a novel case of congenital profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in a patient with bilateral nodular internal auditory canal and labyrinthine enhancement and temporal bone dysplasia.

Patients:

A 76-day-old female was referred to the authors’ center for evaluation of congenital deafness. Behavioral observations and objective audiometric evaluation demonstrated bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss and a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation identified compound heterozygous pathogenic variants in MYO7A, a gene associated with Usher Syndrome Type 1B or DFNB2. Computed tomography and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging studies demonstrated bilateral temporal bone anomalies with unique middle and inner ear malformations, as well as unique contrast enhancement in the membranous labyrinth, internal auditory canals, and cranial nerves, which have not been previously described with MYO7A variants.

Interventions:

Given the potential risk for progressive bilateral labyrinthitis ossificans, bilateral simultaneous cochlear implantation was performed at 4 months of age.

Main Outcome Measures:

Subsequent audiologic follow up after implantation shows significantly improved access to auditory information and increased vocalizations. At last testing, speech and language skills for both receptive and expressive language abilities were found to be commensurate with her chronological age.

Conclusion:

We report a novel presentation and imaging findings of congenital bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss in a patient with nodular internal auditory canal and labyrinthine enhancement and coexisting inner ear dysplasia. Despite the multiple radiologic abnormalities, the patient has demonstrated good benefit from cochlear implantation. Future study of rare variants of congenital deafness, such as this, is critical toward defining new disease processes and determining optimal treatment.
Increase of Intra-abdominal Adipose Tissue in Pediatric Crohn Disease
Authors: Frivolt Klara , Hetterich Holger , Schwerd Tobias , Hajji Mohammad-Samer , Bufler Philip , Coppenrath Eva , Koletzko Sibylle
Published: March 2017

Background and Objective:

Recent evidence points toward an active immunological role of intra-abdominal adipose tissue in Crohn disease (CD). We quantified the abdominal adipose tissue compartments using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 27 pediatric patients with CD compared with 14 controls undergoing MRI examination for other reasons.

Methods:

Total (TAAT), subcutaneous (SCAT) and intra-abdominal (IAAT) adipose tissue areas were measured by semiautomatic segmentation on a transverse slice centered on the umbilicus (mean ± standard deviation in square centimeter) using standard T1-weighted sequences. IAAT/TAAT and IAAT/height ratios were calculated and analyzed for associations with disease duration, phenotype, or therapy.

Results:

Patients with CD (median age 15.0 years, range 7.7–17.9, 18/27 boys, median disease duration 29 months, range 0–136) compared to controls (median age 13.9 years, range 3.3–17.8, 4/14 boys) had higher IAAT area (42.3 ± 21.0 vs 28.7 ± 11.6, P = 0.0494) but similar SCAT and TAAT areas (104.6 ± 72.8 vs 96.5 ± 50.8, P = 0.8170 and 146.9 ± 87.3 vs 125.3 ± 61.5, P = 0.7417, respectively). IAAT/TAAT ratio was higher in patients with CD compared to controls (0.32 ± 0.10 vs 0.24 ± 0.04, P = 0.0081). Patients with disease duration >2 years (n = 14) had higher IAAT/TAAT ratio than those with shorter disease and controls (0.35 ± 0.10 vs 0.28 ± 0.08, P = 0.0288 and 0.24 ± 0.04, P = 0.0009, respectively). In these patients, increased IAAT/height ratio was associated with complicated disease (P = 0.043, r = 0.573). No association was found between IAAT/TAAT ratio and actual disease activity or therapy.

Conclusions:

IAAT is increased in pediatric CD and correlates with disease duration. Assessment of IAAT accumulation may be considered in future MRI scores for inflammation and bowel damage in CD and during follow-up of different therapeutic interventions.
Oral and Dental Health Considerations in Feeding Toddlers
Authors: Palmer Carole A.
Published: March 2017

The oral condition is often overlooked and underappreciated as a crucial health risk factor, despite the fact that oral problems can have far-reaching effects on overall health and well-being. Dental caries (tooth decay) is the number 1 chronic condition among US children and is 5 times more prevalent than childhood asthma. However, oral healthcare is still the most common unmet healthcare need among children. Diet is the primary etiologic factor in the caries process. Unfortunately, the usual exhortation to “avoid sugar” or “avoid sweets” is meaningless because the dietary factors involved in the caries process are more complex than simply encompassing the general category of sweets. Thus, dietary guidelines must be provided to pediatric populations if dental caries is to be prevented. This article reviews the factors involved in dental caries—especially the dietary factors—in young children and provides strategies for preventing this serious disease.
Sports Nutrition Myths That Deserve to Die but Live On
Authors: Rosenbloom Christine
Published: March 2017

Sports nutrition research and the practical applications of the research are ever changing and evolving. However, some myths remain widespread in the athletic community. Coaches, trainers, and athletes often cling to outdated information, which can harm performance and health. Three sports nutrition myths that are addressed in this article surround carbohydrate intake before exercise, treatment for muscle cramps, and quantity of dietary protein needed to stimulate muscle protein synthesis.Each myth will be given historical context, and this article showcases newer research to dispel the myth. Moreover, for each myth, a researcher with expertise in the content area will provide the “bottom line” for practitioners for communicating to athletes.
Exploration Into Consumers Food Consumption
Authors: Paul Rachel , Smith Edge Marianne , Greenblum Marcia , O'Meara Brian
Published: March 2017

Incorporating factors external to food into nutrition advice and weight management programs can help health professionals improve American eating behaviors. Twelve focus groups were conducted with a demographically representative sample to understand why the participants ate. Questions focused on (1) definitions and triggers of consumption occasions, (2) desired outcomes of each consumption occasion, and (3) emotional involvement surrounding each consumption occasion. Major themes emerged from the discussions, which included the differences between snacks and treats, the emotional and physical involvement of various eating occasions, the necessity or unimportance of hunger throughout eating experiences, and the positive and adverse influences of others during mealtimes, snacks, and treats. Because each individual, society, and population group is different and has unique dietary influences, understanding nuances becomes increasingly necessary to develop effective strategies and tailor advice.
Development of a New Outcome Prediction Model in Early-stage Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity Based on Histopathologic Parameters With Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Arora Aditi , Husain Nuzhat , Bansal Ankur , Neyaz Azfar , Jaiswal Ritika , Jain Kavitha , Chaturvedi Arun , Anand Nidhi , Malhotra Kiranpreet , Shukla Saumya
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the histopathologic parameters that predict lymph node metastasis in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and to design a new assessment score on the basis of these parameters that could ultimately allow for changes in treatment decisions or aid clinicians in deciding whether there is a need for close follow-up or to perform early lymph node dissection. Histopathologic parameters of 336 cases of OSCC with stage cT1/T2 N0M0 disease were analyzed. The location of the tumor and the type of surgery used for the management of the tumor were recorded for all patients. The parameters, including T stage, grading of tumor, tumor budding, tumor thickness, depth of invasion, shape of tumor nest, lymphoid response at tumor-host interface and pattern of invasion, eosinophilic reaction, foreign-body giant cell reaction, lymphovascular invasion, and perineural invasion, were examined. Ninety-two patients had metastasis in lymph nodes. On univariate and multivariate analysis, independent variables for predicting lymph node metastasis in descending order were depth of invasion (P=0.003), pattern of invasion (P=0.007), perineural invasion (P=0.014), grade (P=0.028), lymphovascular invasion (P=0.038), lymphoid response (P=0.037), and tumor budding (P=0.039). We designed a scoring system on the basis of these statistical results and tested it. Cases with scores ranging from 7 to 11, 12 to 16, and ≥17 points showed LN metastasis in 6.4%, 22.8%, and 77.1% of cases, respectively. The difference between these 3 groups in relation to nodal metastasis was very significant (P<0.0001). A patient at low risk for lymph node metastasis (score, 7 to 11) had a 5-year survival of 93%, moderate-risk patients (score, 12 to 16) had a 5-year survival of 67%, and high-risk patients (score, 17 to 21) had a 5-year survival of 39%. The risk of lymph node metastasis in OSCC is influenced by many histologic parameters that are not routinely analyzed in pathologic reports. These significant independent factors were graded to design a scoring system that permits accurate evaluation of the risk of metastasis with accuracy independent of the traditional TNM system or isolated histologic parameters. The need for neck node dissection can be predicted depending upon the scores obtained.
Precursor processes of human self-initiated action
Authors: Khalighinejad Nima , Schurger Aaron , Desantis Andrea , Zmigrod Leor , Haggard Patrick
Published: March 2017

A gradual buildup of electrical potential over motor areas precedes self-initiated movements. Recently, such “readiness potentials” (RPs) were attributed to stochastic fluctuations in neural activity. We developed a new experimental paradigm that operationalised self-initiated actions as endogenous ‘skip’ responses while waiting for target stimuli in a perceptual decision task. We compared these to a block of trials where participants could not choose when to skip, but were instead instructed to skip. Frequency and timing of motor action were therefore balanced across blocks, so that conditions differed only in how the timing of skip decisions was generated. We reasoned that across-trial variability of EEG could carry as much information about the source of skip decisions as the mean RP. EEG variability decreased more markedly prior to self-initiated compared to externally-triggered skip actions. This convergence suggests a consistent preparatory process prior to self-initiated action. A leaky stochastic accumulator model could reproduce this convergence given the additional assumption of a systematic decrease in input noise prior to self-initiated actions. Our results may provide a novel neurophysiological perspective on the topical debate regarding whether self-initiated actions arise from a deterministic neurocognitive process, or from neural stochasticity. We suggest that the key precursor of self-initiated action may manifest as a reduction in neural noise.
Visualizing Structure and Transitions for Biological Data Exploration
Authors: Moon Kevin R. , van Dijk David , Wang Zheng , Gigante Scott , Burkhardt Daniel B. , Chen William S. , Yim Kristina , van den Elzen Antonia , Hirn Matthew J. , Coifman Ronald R. , Ivanova Natalia B. , Wolf Guy , Krishnaswamy Smita
Published: March 2017

With the advent of high-throughput technologies measuring high-dimensional biological data, there is a pressing need for visualization tools that reveal the structure and emergent patterns of data in an intuitive form. We present PHATE, a visualization method that captures both local and global nonlinear structure in data by an information-geometric distance between datapoints. We perform extensive comparison between PHATE and other tools on a variety of artificial and biological datasets, and find that it consistently preserves a range of patterns in data including continual progressions, branches, and clusters. We define a manifold preservation metric DEMaP to show that PHATE produces quantitatively better denoised embeddings than existing visualization methods. We show that PHATE is able to gain unique insight from a newly generated scRNA-seq dataset of human germ layer differentiation. Here, PHATE reveals a dynamic picture of the main developmental branches in unparalleled detail, including the identification of three novel subpopulations. Finally, we show that PHATE is applicable to a wide variety of datatypes including mass cytometry, single-cell RNA-sequencing, Hi-C, and gut microbiome data, where it can generate interpretable insights into the underlying systems.
Towards the human cellular microRNAome
Authors: McCall Matthew N. , Kim Min-Sik , Adil Mohammed , Patil Arun H. , Lu Yin , Mitchell Christopher J. , Leal-Rojas Pamela , Xu Jinchong , Kumar Manoj , Dawson Valina L. , Dawson Ted M. , Baras Alexander S. , Rosenberg Avi Z. , Arking Dan E. , Burns Kathleen H. , Pandey Akhilesh , Halushka Marc K.
Published: March 2017

microRNAs are short RNAs that serve as master regulators of gene expression and are essential components of normal development as well as modulators of disease. MicroRNAs generally act cell autonomously and thus their localization to specific cell types is needed to guide our understanding of microRNA activity. Current tissue-level data has caused considerable confusion and comprehensive cell-level data does not yet exist. Here we establish the landscape of human cell-specific microRNA expression. This project evaluated 8 billion small RNA-seq reads from 46 primary cell types, 42 cancer or immortalized cell lines, and 26 tissues. It identified both specific and ubiquitous patterns of expression that strongly correlate with adjacent super-enhancer activity. Analysis of unaligned RNA reads uncovered 207 unknown minor strand (passenger) microRNAs of known microRNA loci and 2,632 novel putative microRNA loci. Although cancer cell lines generally recapitulated the expression patterns of matched primary cells, their isomiR sequence families exhibited increased disorder suggesting Drosha and Dicer-dependent microRNA processing variability. Cell-specific patterns of microRNA expression were used to deconvolute variable cellular composition of adipose tissue samples highlighting one use of this cell-specific microRNA expression data. Characterization of cellular microRNA expression across a wide variety of cell types provides a new understanding of this critical regulatory RNA species.
A comparison between scalp- and source-reconstructed EEG networks
Authors: Lai Margherita , Demuru Matteo , Hillebrand Arjan , Fraschini Matteo
Published: March 2017

EEG can be used to characterise functional networks using a variety of connectivity (FC) metrics. Unlike EEG source reconstruction, scalp analysis does not allow to make inferences about interacting regions, yet this latter approach has not been abandoned. Although the two approaches use different assumptions, conclusions drawn regarding the topology of the underlying networks should, ideally, not depend on the approach. The aim of the present work was to find an answer to the following questions: does scalp analysis provide a correct estimate of the network topology? how big are the distortions when using various pipelines in different experimental conditions? EEG recordings were analysed with amplitude- and phase-based metrics, founding a strong correlation for the global connectivity between scalp- and source-level. In contrast, network topology was only weakly correlated. The strongest correlations were obtained for MST leaf fraction, but only for FC metrics that limit the effects of volume conduction/signal leakage. These findings suggest that these effects alter the estimated EEG network organization, limiting the interpretation of results of scalp analysis. Finally, this study also suggests that the use of metrics that address the problem of zero lag correlations may give more reliable estimates of the underlying network topology.
Utilizing bifurcated halogen-bonding interactions with the uranyl oxo group in the assembly of a UO2–3-bromo-5-iodobenzoic acid coordination polymer
Authors: Kalaj Mark , Carter Korey P. , Cahill Christopher L.
Published: March 2017

The synthesis and crystal structure of a new uranyl coordination polymer featuring 3-bromo-5-iodobenzoic acid is described and the luminescent and vibrational properties of the material have been explored. Compound (1), [UO2(C7H3BrIO2)2]n, features dimeric uranyl units chelated and then linked by 3-bromo-5-iodobenzoic acid ligands to form a one-dimensional coordination polymer that is subsequently assembledviabifurcated halogen-bonding interactions with uranyl oxo atoms to form a supramolecular three-dimensional network. The asymmetric, bifurcated halogen-bonding interaction in (1) is notable as it represents the first observation of this synthon in a uranyl hybrid material. Raman and IR spectroscopy showed that halogen-bonding interactions with the uranyl oxo atoms result in small shifts in υ1and υ3frequencies, whereas luminescence spectra collected at an excitation wavelength of 420 nm reveal partially resolved uranyl emission.
Disasters and long-term economic sustainability: a perspective on Sierra Leone
Authors: Dumbuya Barlu , Nirupama Niru
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the case of Sierra Leone from the lens of economic impact and underlying causes for concern towards economic sustainability in a post-Ebola recovery phase.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis of literature from various sources, including public and private sectors, non-governmental organisations, multilateral agencies, peer reviewed scholarly articles and media reports was carried out. A total of 77 articles were reviewed. Each document from each source types was then examined for recurring themes that would enhance understanding on the topic addressed here. The NVivo qualitative analysis software was used for coding and extracting of themes from these articles using certain keywords and phrases that relate to the study objectives.

Findings

The Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone caused impairment of exports and the capacity to raise revenue via taxes due to significant slump in economic activities. The post-conflict strategy to increase foreign investment had kick-started a gradual recovery, but the Ebola crisis threatened further gains. The crisis also highlighted that the country’s economy depended on foreign investment in a single key sector of iron ore for which global prices fell during Ebola significantly. Although socio-economic impacts of Ebola will linger for some time and health system would have to be vitalised, a sense of optimism was found in many documents.

Originality/value

The research approach is new and comprehensive in that it looks at post-conflict Sierra Leone in combination with ongoing biophysical and hydrometeorological hazards, and how the Ebola outbreak became completely devastating for the country’s economic sustainability.
Balancing costs and benefits in Vietnam’s hydropower industry: a strategic proposal
Authors: Luu Chinh , Von Meding Jason , Kanjanabootra Sittimont
Published: March 2017

Purpose

One of the main strategic targets in the national power development plan of Vietnam is to give priority to hydropower. However, there is evidence that the most “at risk” in Vietnamese society have, to date, broadly failed to benefit from hydropower development but rather have become more vulnerable. This paper aims to broaden the perspective of decision makers (government agencies, investors and banks) in the hydropower industry regarding the environmental and social impacts of unrestrained development and the critical need to not only reduce disaster risk for communities but also provide a sustainable model for Vietnam’s energy demand.

Design/methodology/approach

This position paper presents a critique of public policy in Vietnam related to hydropower industry, undertaken alongside an analysis of socio-economic community resilience and disaster risk reduction literature.

Findings

Small hydropower investment must be delayed until measures are put in place to ensure that multi-stakeholder risk is a central component of the investment dialogue. Current pricing policies are not aligned with the hydropower development management, and this erects barriers to environmentally and socially conscious decision-making.

Practical implications

This paper suggests that the development of small hydropower projects must be curtailed until new measures are put in place. This has practical implications for investors, policy makers and residents of affected areas. The authors argue for a significant shift in government strategy toward building resilience as opposed to growth and profit at any cost.

Social implications

Conscious of Vietnam’s energy demands and development goals, this paper investigates the context of increasing disaster risk and ecological pressures, as well as social injustice relating to the hydropower industry. This kind of analysis can support future efforts to reduce disaster risk and the vulnerability of marginalized groups in Vietnam.

Originality/value

The authors present a comprehensive review of Vietnamese hydropower from a disaster resilience perspective and provide analysis that will be useful in further research in this emerging area.
Implementation strategies for guidelines at ICUs: a systematic review
Authors: Jordan Portia , Mpasa Ferestas , ten Ham-Baloyi Wilma , Bowers Candice
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze empirical studies related to the implementation strategies for clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in intensive care units (ICUs).

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review with a narrative synthesis adapted from Popay et al.’s method for a narrative synthesis was conducted. A search using CINAHL, Google Scholar, Academic search complete, Cochrane Register for Randomized Controlled Trials, MEDLINE via PUBMED and grey literature was conducted in 2014 and updated in 2016 (August). After reading the abstracts, titles and full-text articles, 11 (n=11) research studies met the inclusion criteria.

Findings

After critical appraisal, using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Tools, eight randomized controlled trials conducted in adult and neonatal ICUs using implementation strategies remained. Popay et al.’s method for narrative synthesis was adapted and used to analyze and synthesize the data and formulate concluding statements. Included studies found that multi-faceted strategies appear to be more effective than single strategies. Strategies mostly used were printed educational materials, information/ sessions, audit, feedback, use of champion leaders, educational outreach visits, and computer or internet usage. Practical training, monitoring visits and grand rounds were less used.

Practical implications

Findings can be used by clinicians to implement the best combination of multi-faceted implementation strategies in the ICUs in order to enhance the optimal use of CPGs.

Originality/value

No systematic review was previously done on the implementation strategies that should be used best for optimal CPG implementation in the ICU.
Branding in B2B: the value of consumer goods brands in industrial markets
Authors: Viardot Eric
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore whether consumer goods brands (CGBs) have more brand equity than exclusively professional brands (EPBs) do in the context of the industrial detergents market.

Design/methodology/approach

The author conducted direct customer interviews at the outlets of two large wholesale distribution retail chains. The sample included 211 respondents.

Findings

The study shows that CGBs do have brand equity in business-to-business (B2B) market. First, they enjoy a greater top-of-mind awareness than do EPBs. Second, they have a distinctive brand image, as they are perceived as being more efficient and more expensive than are EPBs.

Research limitations/implications

There are three main limitations. First, the results may reflect industry-specific factors that are not representative of all professional markets. Second, the products studied are relatively low in price compared to other categories of professional products. Third, the sample market is a mature market characterized by a modest growth rate and limited development in related markets. However, these limitations do not discredit the results of the study. Conversely, they invite further research on the subject of CGBs extending into professional markets. Future research could examine other product categories as well as the use of an experimental approach to validate and generalize the primary results.

Practical implications

This research has implications for business-to-consumer marketing professionals looking to leverage the equity of their CGBs in the B2B space. In addition, this work can help B2B marketing professionals better defend their market share in the face of well-known CGB entering their market.

Originality/value

This study represents an exploratory analysis, as the author has not any found prior work on this topic. In addition to these original results, the paper contributes to a better understanding of the concept of brand equity in B2B for academics and provides new insights for industrial marketers regarding branding in B2B.
Breaking the chains of ignorance: manager-philosophers in recent management history
Authors: Segal Steven , Bruce Kyle
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to disclose new pathways for research and for understanding the relationship between management, philosophy and history.

Design/methodology/approach

Textual exegesis of the key protagonists in terms of a critical explanation or interpretation of text.

Findings

In contrast to textbook forms of philosophy developed under conditions of abstraction from practice, it is in the context of practice that managers develop their way of thinking. More particularly, the authors have demonstrated through the exemplars of Semler and Welch, how as managers are disrupted in their workday practices of “living forward”, they are able to become reflexively attuned to the taken-for-granted common sense and ideas that have been implicit guides to them. As they are able to recognise their taken-for-granted background common sense, they are able to critique this, subject it to change and, thus, open-up new possibilities for living forward.

Originality/value

The focus of this paper has tended to be rather piecemeal and limited to the impact of particular philosophers on particular management thinkers. To date, there has been no philosophical contemplation of the practice of management per se nor, concomitantly, the pivotal but basically disregarded role of managers qua philosophers.
Different response–effect trait relationships underlie contrasting responses to two chemical stressors
Authors: Mensens Christoph , De Laender Frederik , Janssen Colin R. , Sabbe Koen , De Troch Marleen
Published: March 2017

Trait‐based approaches evaluate ecosystem functioning under environmental change by relating traits predicting changes in species densities (response traits) to traits driving ecosystem functioning (effect traits). Stressors can, however, affect ecosystem functioning not only by altering species densities but also by directly changing species effect traits.

We first identified the response traits predicting the cell density of 18 marine benthic diatom strains along gradients of two chemical stressors (a pesticide and a metal, atrazine and copper). We then tested if response traits could predict stressor‐induced changes in ecosystem functioning, i.e. changes in the effect traits driving the diatoms’ potential contribution to primary production, sediment stabilization and energy content in intertidal systems. Finally, we examined if changes in density and changes in ecosystem functioning were correlated, to assess whether species capable of growing under stressful conditions could maintain their contribution to ecosystem functioning.

The relationship between response traits and stressor‐induced changes in density and ecosystem functioning was different depending on stressor type: a set of intercorrelated morphological traits predicted changes in both density and ecosystem functioning under metal stress, with large cells being more stress resistant. Changes in density and changes in ecosystem functioning were positively related: diatoms whose density was least affected by the metal were also able to sustain functioning under metal exposure.

In contrast, the capacity for mixotrophic growth predicted changes in density, but not changes in ecosystem functioning under pesticide stress. Pesticide effects on density and on ecosystem functioning were negatively related for energy content and sediment stabilization, indicating a limited capacity of pesticide‐tolerant diatoms to maintain their contribution to ecosystem functioning.

Synthesis. Ecosystem functioning under stress can depend on whether the response traits driving changes in species densities also predict direct stress effects on the species’ contribution to functioning. Based on our results, we expect a disproportionate loss of functioning when traits driving species densities do not allow to maintain ecosystem functioning under stress.
The Resistible Rise of Rupert Rigsby
Authors: Lund Brian
Published: March 2017

SINCE 1986 the number of UK households renting privately has increased from 1.85 million to 5.3 million. This private landlord renaissance has been supported by buy to let investment, tax concessions, subsidies, light touch regulation, the right to buy scheme and housing benefit. However, private landlordism makes only a small contribution to new housing supply, characterised by low quality, adds to state expenditure, increases social inequality and has a negative impact on family life. Following the stark revelation of ‘two Englands’ in the Brexit vote, ways to curb the sector's growth need to have a higher place on the political agenda.
Where Next? Climate Change, Migration, and the (Bio)politics of Adaptation
Authors: Bettini Giovanni
Published: March 2017

The series of recent hecatombs in the Mediterranean, together with the regressive reactions we have witnessed in and around Europe, highlight the importance of posing the question of climate change and migration. Climate change will interact with a number of drivers of migration, and will hit hardest on the weakest and most exposed – which often include migrants as well as those too poor to move. However, how the climate‐migration nexus can be addressed in fair and equitable ways (with what concepts, in what fora, through what policies) is far from a simple question. This intervention proposes two main arguments. First, a brief overview of recent debates suggests that we are still far from any progressive approaches to ‘climate migration’ – those that have emerged are different expressions of biopolitical discourses on sustainable development and resilience. Second, this intervention invites to reconsider the widely held and depoliticising assumption that climate migration is a ‘problem to be solved’ ‐ for instance, by UNFCCC. Rather, the nexus should be seen as a set of open questions on different alternative climate futures, as well as a symptom of the irreducibly political tensions inherent in every form of mobility as much as in every attempt to discipline/govern it.