bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural analysis of free and liganded forms of the Fab fragment of a high-affinity anti-cocaine antibody, h2E2
Authors: Tan Kemin , Zhou Min , Ahrendt Angela J. , Duke Norma E. C. , Tabaja Nassif , Ball William J. , Kirley Terence L. , Norman Andrew B. , Joachimiak Andrzej , Schiffer Marianne , Wilton Rosemarie , Pokkuluri P. Raj
Published: November 2019

A high-affinity anti-cocaine monoclonal antibody, designated h2E2, is entering phase 1 clinical trials for cocaine abuse therapy. To gain insight into the molecular details of its structure that are important for binding cocaine and cocaine metabolites, the Fab fragment was generated and crystallized with and without ligand. Structures of the unliganded Fab and the Fab fragment bound to benzoylecgonine were determined, and were compared with each other and with other crystallized anti-cocaine antibodies. The affinity of the h2E2 antibody for cocaine is 4 nM, while that of the cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine is 20 nM. Both are higher than the reported affinity for cocaine of the two previously crystallized anti-cocaine antibodies. Consistent with cocaine fluorescent quenching binding studies for the h2E2 mAb, four aromatic residues in the CDR regions of the Fab (TyrL32, TyrL96, TrpL91 and TrpH33) were found to be involved in ligand binding. The aromatic side chains surround and trap the tropane moiety of the ligand in the complex structure, forming significant van der Waals interactions which may account for the higher affinity observed for the h2E2 antibody. A water molecule mediates hydrogen bonding between the antibody and the carbonyl group of the benzoyl ester. The affinity of binding to h2E2 of benzoylecgonine differs only by a factor of five compared with that of cocaine; therefore, it is suggested that h2E2 would bind cocaine in the same way as observed in the Fab–benzoylecgonine complex, with minor rearrangements of some hypervariable segments of the antibody.
Searching and deleting: youth, impression management and online traces of search
Authors: Andersson Cecilia
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and analyse how young people conceptualise online traces of search and what strategies they have for dealing with them.

Design/methodology/approach

The topic was investigated through a qualitative and ethnographic approach. Interviews, go-alongs and observations in schools were carried out with nine participants in Sweden.

Findings

The findings show that the participants’ main strategy in relation to online traces was to remove items from their search logs. Search logs were a tangible way of conceptualising online traces of search. The participants removed items in relation to an imagined audience which, in the present material, primarily consisted of parents and teachers. The findings also showed that the participants had some awareness of online traces but had difficulties in understanding the way that data flow and the persistence of data. Their strategies were more reactive than proactive in relation to online traces.

Originality/value

The present study contributes with a novel exploration of understandings of online traces of search. Further, it contribute theoretically by investigating the topic through the lens of audience and impression management.
Understanding affective evaluation in retail: consumers perspective
Authors: Marinao-Artigas Enrique , Valenzuela-Fernández Leslier , Barajas-Portas Karla
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effect of the consumer’s emotional shopping experience on the perception of benefits and on the corporate reputation of a department store.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was applied to a non-probabilistic sample survey proportionally distributed among the main department stores in Chile and Mexico.

Findings

The findings show for both countries that the functional and symbolic benefit perceived by consumers significantly influences the reputation of department stores. However, the hedonic benefit perceived by the consumer had a negative effect on the reputation of the store.

Practical implications

The companies could redirect their marketing and commercial management strategies based on the variables and relationships of the model proposed in this study. For instance, managers should implement strategies to improve the emotional experience of their clients. In addition, future studies also could use other variables inherent to the consumer’s purchasing behavior to evaluate their effects on the corporate reputation of the department store.

Originality/value

This research contributes with the proposal of an explanatory model for decision making, using structural equations that suggest that the affective evaluation of the shopping experience is a key antecedent of the functional, hedonic and symbolic benefits perceived by the consumer. Moreover, the emotional experience plays a key role as an antecedent for the corporate reputation of a company.
Effect of using project management tools and techniques on SMEs performance in developing country context
Authors: Sane Seydou
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight, through a theoretical and empirical analysis, the expected effects of the use of tools and techniques of project management on the performance of SMEs in Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses data from a questionnaire survey of 157 SMEs in Senegal. The sample was chosen for convenience. Also, for data processing, the author mobilized descriptive statistics, factor analysis and regression analysis.

Findings

Regardless of size, SMEs use project management tools and techniques. Their use positively and significantly influences their business and social performance. Also, the size of the SME is positively and significantly associated with the use of tools and techniques; however, the results show that the older the SME, the less it uses such tools and techniques.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides an overview of the tools and techniques of project management used by SMEs and their contribution to performance, everything that can support them in choosing the appropriate tools and techniques to respond to their needs. A limitation of this research is that it does not mention the tools that contribute the most to the performance of the SMEs.

Originality/value

Contrary to the results of some previous research studies on SMEs in Africa, showing that the way in which SMEs operate in Africa is often characterized by less use of formal management tools, for cultural and institutional reasons, this research shows that these have a very appreciable degree of openness to project management tools and techniques.
Using Google Trends and Baidu Index to analyze the impacts of disaster events on company stock prices
Authors: Liu Ying , Peng Geng , Hu Lanyi , Dong Jichang , Zhang Qingqing
Published: November 2019

Purpose

With the ascendance of information technology, particularly through the internet, external information sources and their impacts can be readily transferred to influence the performance of financial markets within a short period of time. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how incidents affect stock prices and volatility using vector error correction and autoregressive-generalized auto regressive conditional Heteroskedasticity models, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

To characterize the investors’ responses to incidents, the authors introduce indices derived using search volumes from Google Trends and the Baidu Index.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that an outbreak of disasters can increase volatility temporarily, and exert significant negative effects on stock prices in a relatively long time. In addition, indices derived from different search engines show differentiation, with the Google Trends search index mainly representing international investors and appearing more significant and persistent.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by incorporating open-source data to analyze how catastrophic events affect financial markets and effect persistence.
Interaction orientation based on value co-creation theory: scale development and validation
Authors: Yu Hongyan , Liu Rong , Zheng Daowu
Published: November 2019

Purpose

With the rapid development of information technologies and the internet, firms have increasingly focussed on customer interactions to realise value co-creation. Previous studies have empirically examined interaction orientation, but their measurements have been derived from goods-dominant logic and have not explained the mechanism of value co-creation. The purpose of this paper is to propose an operational definition and define the dimensions of interaction orientation based on value co-creation theory (IOVCC), and then develop a scale for it.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, data were collected from employees via three questionnaire surveys, and then analysed using exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The findings are as follows: IOVCC represents a firm’s implementation of a set of marketing actions aimed at inserting the firm into its customers’ daily life practices and co-creating value with the customers. The construct of IOVCC consists of five behavioural dimensions: “building communication channels”, “involving customers in co-production”, “improving service capabilities”, “improving interaction quality” and “integrating interaction resources”. The measurement scale for IOVCC has acceptable levels of reliability, content validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity and nomological validity.

Originality/value

This study enriches the literature on value co-creation theory by revealing the process and actions of co-creating value. It also contributes to the understanding of service touchpoints by highlighting the interaction quality of touchpoints. In addition, the authors have developed a reliable and valid scale for IOVCC, thereby facilitating the measurement of a firm’s implementation of the “value co-creation” business philosophy.
Internationalization and governance of Indian family-owned business groups
Authors: Shanmugasundaram Subramanian
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between corporate governance practices and internationalization through foreign direct investments in the context of family-owned business groups in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The comparative case study method is used to understand the relationship between corporate governance practices and internationalization using four family-owned business groups in India.

Findings

The ownership concentration negatively influences the internationalization, while transparency has a positive association. Professionalization of management helps in internationalization. Overall, good corporate governance practices have a positive influence on group internationalization.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides detailed discussions based on the case study research which would help the future research work on the relationship between corporate governance practices and internationalization.

Originality/value

The existing literature studies in this field in the context of emerging markets are inconclusive. Hence, this paper uses the case study method to understand the relationship better.
The effectiveness of national HIV prevention education program on behavioral changes for men who have sex with men and transgender women in Thailand
Authors: Jommaroeng Rapeepun , Richter Kerry Anne , Chamratrithirong Aphichat , Soonthorndhada Amara
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of the national HIV prevention outreach program for men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW).

Design/methodology/approach

It examined changes in condom use, lubricant use, HIV testing and counseling (HTC) uptake and sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening uptake, as well as how and why changes did or did not occur. The study applied mixed methods of both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Findings

There were 16,539 MSM, and TGW reached at least three times in the program during October 2011‒September 2012. The program was found to affect changes in condom use with steady partners (p<0.000), condom use with casual partners (p<0.000), water-based lubricant use (p<0.000), HTC uptake (p<0.000) and STIs screening uptake (p<0.000). Age and province of outreach are associated with HTC uptake and STI screening (p<0.000), slightly as well as gender identity (p<0.1). Gender identity and province of outreach are associated with condom use with steady partners (p<0.000). Gender identity (p<0.000) and sex work (p<0.05) are associated with the use of lubricant. The qualitative results showed that the program had an immediate effect on HTC and STIs screening due to successful bond between the outreach workers and their clients, leading to trust and influencing behavior change.

Originality/value

HIV prevention by peer educators continues to be proved the most effective method, assuming its program consistency. TGW are more vulnerable to MSM to protect themselves, and they have steady partners. Future program for MSM can be replicated and scaled up, but more empowerment component and self-esteem building should be integrated to target TGW.
Data as oil, infrastructure or asset? Three metaphors of data as economic value
Authors: Nolin Jan Michael
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Principled discussions on the economic value of data are frequently pursued through metaphors. This study aims to explore three influential metaphors for talking about the economic value of data: data are the new oil, data as infrastructure and data as an asset.

Design/methodology/approach

With the help of conceptual metaphor theory, various meanings surrounding the three metaphors are explored. Meanings clarified or hidden through various metaphors are identified. Specific emphasis is placed on the economic value of ownership of data.

Findings

In discussions on data as economic resource, the three different metaphors are used for separate purposes. The most used metaphor, data are the new oil, communicates that ownership of data could lead to great wealth. However, with data as infrastructure data have no intrinsic value. Therefore, profits generated from data resources belong to those processing the data, not those owning it. The data as an asset metaphor can be used to convince organizational leadership that they own data of great value.

Originality/value

This is the first scholarly investigation of metaphors communicating economic value of data. More studies in this area appear urgent, given the power of such metaphors, as well as the increasing importance of data in economics.
Sovereign rating announcements and the integration of African banking markets
Authors: He Jianan , Schiereck Dirk
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the information spillover of sovereign rating changes on the market valuation of bank stocks in Africa.

Design methodology

First, the authors apply event study methodology to evaluate the stock market reaction of African bank stocks on the announcement of sovereign rating changes. Second, the cross sections of the abnormal returns are examined by multivariate regression analyses. Third, the findings are proved for robustness.

Findings

The authors investigate how 37 African banks react to 203 African sovereign rating announcements from the three leading credit rating agencies over the period 2010-2016 and find that negative announcements trigger the significant positive stock reactions of African banks, especially contributed by banks in the non-reviewed African countries. These unusual reactions can be explained by the low integration and the severe information asymmetry of African capital markets. The authors further locate the influencing factors of banks’ reactions and show that rating downgrades magnify the abnormal effects while the membership of the African Free Trade Zone mildens the stock market reactions.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations are given by the limited sample size. There are only limited numbers of publicly listed African banks with sufficient trading data.

Practical implications

The paper argues for a critical dependency of African bank equity valuation in the case of sovereign debt rating changes in neighbor countries. This observation is important for the risk assessment of African banking assets.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to examine stock market reactions on sovereign rating announcements for the evaluation of capital market integration in Africa. It thereby underlines the usefulness of this simply to apply approach as an instrument for ongoing examining the progress in capital market development in emerging countries.
Do statutory internal auditors influence stock price crash risk? Firm-level evidence from Korea
Authors: Park Soo Yeon , Park Hyun-Young
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Based on 1,798 firm-year observations from 2009 to 2013, using publicly available disclosure data for Korean listed firms, this study aims to examine whether statutory internal auditors influence firm-level stock price crash risk.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the bad news hoarding theory of crash risk, the authors investigate the association between the quality of statutory internal auditors and one-year-ahead stock price crash risk. The quality of statutory internal auditors is measured as the compensation of statutory internal auditors and the financial expertise of statutory internal auditors. Stock price crash risk is measured as an indicator variable whether a firm experiences one or more crash weeks during the fiscal year period.

Findings

The authors find that higher quality of statutory internal auditors – measured through greater compensation and greater financial expertise – is associated with lower possibilities of future stock price crash risk. These results indicate that high-quality statutory internal auditors mitigate bad news hoarding of managers because of their greater capability and stronger incentive to lower litigation risk and preserve their reputation. The results are mostly robust to different measures for stock price crash risk and the quality of statutory internal auditors.

Practical implications

The findings of this study regarding stock price crash risk are important for investors because such risk can significantly affect investor welfare. The results indicate that statutory internal auditors play an important role in controlling future stock price crash risk and maintaining stability in the equity market.

Originality/value

This study adds to the extant literature on the determinants of stock price crash risk and is the first to examine the impact of internal auditors on stock price crash risk. Moreover, this study also contributes to the existing literature on internal auditor quality by showing that high-quality statutory internal auditors reduce risks in financial markets.
Examining the engagement of young consumers for religiously sanctioned food: the case of halal food in India
Authors: Hassan Yusuf , Pandey Jatin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Religion plays an important role in promoting and inhibiting consumption of goods and services. Halal food, for instance, represents one such food permitted by Islam. Within a broader category of consumers for religiously sanctioned products such as halal food, young consumers represent an important segment, as they have a high lifetime value, thereby requiring special attention. This study aims to identify and examine individual and social factors that can foster young consumer’s engagement for halal products.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive research approach using the Gioia method has been used to develop broader themes for discussion. The authors have also proposed a model for engaging young consumers for religiously sanctioned dietary products.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights into the interplay of identities and value sources that encourages or forbids consumer engagement for halal products.

Practical implications

Globally, the halal food industry has been estimated to be worth $580bn, and it is growing at an average rate of 7 per cent annually. Marketers, thus, need to be aware of diverse consumers’ needs to provide a customized offering; they have to cater to adherent customers of these religiously sanctioned products by being sensitive to intricacies that make such food items consumable. The study will help marketers to better align their promotional strategies with the needs and requirement of young consumers.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors have operationalized repeated interaction and associated consumption in the context of halal food to understand how religion and other factors play a role in strengthening or weakening consumer engagement. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has been done to understand young consumer’s engagement for halal food products in the Indian context. India being a land of multi-religion and multi-culture, such studies can provide rich insights.
Port‐wine stains associated with large vestibular aqueduct syndrome caused by mutations in GNAQ and SLC26A4 genes: A case report
Authors: Cong Tianxin , Liu Lian , Zhang Haoyi , Wang Lian , Jiang Xian
Published: November 2019

Port‐wine stains (PWS) are capillary malformations associated with mutation in the GNAQ (NM_000441.1) gene. Large vestibular aqueduct syndrome (LVAS), caused by mutation in the SLC26A4 (NM_002072) gene, is an inner ear malformation that can lead to hearing loss. To our knowledge, LVAS in PWS patients has never been reported. Here, we describe a case of a 9‐year‐old female patient diagnosed with PWS on the face and neck, coexisting with large vestibular aqueduct syndrome. Further analyses revealed a somatic mutation in GNAQ and a compound heterozygous mutation in the SLC26A4 gene. Some PWS patients have associated abnormalities, such as glaucoma and choroidal hemangioma, leptomeningeal angiomas and atrophy or hypertrophy of bone and soft tissue. We present here the first case that reveals the possibility that capillary malformations are associated with inner ear malformation. More case reports and further studies are needed to determine whether these conditions coexist in other patients.
Long‐term movements and home‐range changes: Rapid territory shifts in meerkats
Authors: Kranstauber Bart , Gall Gabriella E. C. , Vink Tim , Clutton‐Brock Tim , Manser Marta B.
Published: November 2019

Territoriality and stable home ranges are a common space‐use pattern among animals. These ranges provide its inhabitants with important resources and thus favourable territories are associated with an increased fitness. While the role of territory quality and changes of territory ownership have often been investigated, the changes of territorial boundaries have been less studied.

Here, we investigated space‐use changes in a social mammal species, applying a novel analytical approach, calculating long‐term dissimilarity in space use using distancematrices based on periodic utilization distributions. This approach makes it possible to identify different space‐use patterns, which cannot be distinguished by only considering changes between consecutive time periods.

We analysed meerkat (Suricata suricatta) movements of a total of 24 different groups over a 16‐year period, resulting in 134 group years. We then correlated the identified home‐range changes to life‐history events and possible environmental drivers.

Groups had stable territories for several years before they abandoned their home range mostly to move quickly to new areas where they again remained for several years. Of 26 identified sudden shifts, 22 occurred in the summer months and often involved distances larger than the original home‐range size. Home‐range movements that were close together in time were often also spatially clustered and moved in a similar direction. These shifts were often preceded by more frequent interactions between groups, but did not seem to be a product of direct displacements by other groups. The normalized difference vegetation index as a measure of food production and social factors such as dominance changes did not correlate to changes.

Against our expectation space‐use changes were not accumulations of small changes, but more often involved long‐distance moves into unknown ranges. This means that the groups enter areas where they cannot profit from local knowledge. The methods used identify episodes of long stability alternated by sudden changes in meerkats and in general provides insight into long‐term space use. Our methods can be used to analyse long‐term space use, either within or across species.
Quantifying the effects of species traits on predation risk in nature: A comparative study of butterfly wing damage
Authors: Molleman Freerk , Javoiš Juhan , Davis Robert B. , Whitaker Melissa R. L. , Tammaru Toomas , Prinzing Andreas , Õunap Erki , Wahlberg Niklas , Kodandaramaiah Ullasa , Aduse‐Poku Kwaku , Kaasik Ants , Carey James R.
Published: November 2019

Evading predators is a fundamental aspect of the ecology and evolution of all prey animals. In studying the influence of prey traits on predation risk, previous researchers have shown that crypsis reduces attack rates on resting prey, predation risk increases with increased prey activity, and rapid locomotion reduces attack rates and increases chances of surviving predator attacks. However, evidence for these conclusions is nearly always based on observations of selected species under artificial conditions. In nature, it remains unclear how defensive traits such as crypsis, activity levels and speed influence realized predation risk across species in a community. Whereas direct observations of predator–prey interactions in nature are rare, insight can be gained by quantifying bodily damage caused by failed predator attacks.

We quantified how butterfly species traits affect predation risk in nature by determining how defensive traits correlate with wing damage caused by failed predation attempts, thereby providing the first robust multi‐species comparative analysis of predator‐induced bodily damage in wild animals.

For 34 species of fruit‐feeding butterflies in an African forest, we recorded wing damage and quantified crypsis, activity levels and flight speed. We then tested for correlations between damage parameters and species traits using comparative methods that account for measurement error.

We detected considerable differences in the extent, location and symmetry of wing surface loss among species, with smaller differences between sexes. We found that males (but not females) of species that flew faster had substantially less wing surface loss. However, we found no correlation between cryptic coloration and symmetrical wing surface loss across species. In species in which males appeared to be more active than females, males had a lower proportion of symmetrical wing surface loss than females.

Our results provide evidence that activity greatly influences the probability of attacks and that flying rapidly is effective for escaping pursuing predators in the wild, but we did not find evidence that cryptic species are less likely to be attacked while at rest.
International descriptive study for comparison of treatment patterns in patients with knee osteoarthritis between Korea and Japan using claims data
Authors: Sakai Ryoko , Cho Soo‐Kyung , Jang Eun Jin , Harigai Masayoshi , Sung Yoon‐Kyoung
Published: November 2019

Aim

To compare medication prescriptions for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) in the real world in Korea and Japan.

Methods

This retrospective and descriptive population‐based study was conducted using claims data provided by Health Insurance Review and Assessment in Korea and JMDC Inc in Japan. We defined individuals as KOA patients if they had an International Classification of Diseases 10 (ICD10) code for gonarthrosis (M17) and were ≥50 years old in 2012. Korean and Japanese patients were matched for age and sex using frequency matching. Patients were observed for 1 year from the first month of the ICD10 code M17 in 2012. We described baseline characteristics including prevalence of comorbidities, and use of medication for KOA during the observational period.

Results

The median age was 59 and the percentage of women was 61.4 in both countries (N = 1 133 138 in Korea, N = 10 498 in Japan). The prevalence of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) usage in Japan (74.7%) was significantly higher than that in Korea (59.0%). Analgesics such as acetaminophen and symptomatic slow‐acting drugs for OA (SYSADOA) were significantly more frequently used in Korea (25.8%) than in Japan (9.4%). Intra‐articular injection (IAI) of corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid was performed more frequently in Japanese patients (57.3%) than Korean patients (30.5%).

Conclusions

Medication patterns for KOA in Korea and Japan are described for the first time. Use of NSAIDs and IAI were more common in Japan, while other pain killers and SYSADOA were more commonly prescribed in Korea.
Comparative study on the mutational profile of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma predominant histologic subtypes in Chinese non‐small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Ding Ying , Zhang Lihua , Guo Lingchuan , Wu Chunyan , Zhou Jianhua , Zhou Yongchun , Ma Jie , Li Xiao , Ji Pan , Wang Ming , Zhu Weidong , Shi Chenxi , Li Sanen , Wu Wei , Zhu Wei , Xiao Desheng , Fu Chunyan , He Qiuyan , Sun Rui , Mao Xinru , Lizaso Analyn , Li Bing , Han‐Zhang Han , Zhang Zhihong
Published: November 2019

Background

Distinction in the mutational profile between the common histological types, lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and squamous cell lung carcinoma (LUSC) has been well‐established. However, comprehensive mutation profiles of the predominant histological subtypes within LUAD and LUSC remains elusive.

Methods

We analyzed the mutational profile of 318 Chinese NSCLC patients of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma predominant subtypes from seven hospitals using capture‐based ultra‐deep sequencing of 68 lung cancer‐related genes.

Results

Of the 318 NSCLC patients, 215 were diagnosed with LUAD and 103 with LUSC. Adenocarcinoma in situ and acinar adenocarcinoma were the most predominant subtypes of LUAD. On the other hand, keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma was the most predominant subtype of LUSC. Among the LUAD subtypes, EGFR sensitizing mutations were most prevalent in the invasive lepidic subtype. More than half of the patients with preinvasive adenocarcinoma in situ, minimally invasive, acinar, micropapillary and papillary subtypes were also EGFR‐mutants. Patients with colloidal, invasive mucinous, and fetal subtypes had the least number of EGFR mutations. Moreover, KRAS mutations were prevalent in patients with invasive mucinous, colloid, enteric and solid subtypes. A total of 90% of the LUSC patients harbor mutations in TP53, wherein all patients except five with nonkeratinizing were TP53 mutants. PIK3CA amplifications were most prevalent in keratinizing, followed by basaloid and nonkeratinizing subtypes.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the mutational profiles among the predominant histological subtypes were very distinct, which provided a reliable tool to improve treatment decisions.
The handbook for standardized field and laboratory measurements in terrestrial climate change experiments and observational studies (ClimEx)
Authors: Halbritter Aud H. , De Boeck Hans J. , Eycott Amy E. , Reinsch Sabine , Robinson David A. , Vicca Sara , Berauer Bernd , Christiansen Casper T. , Estiarte Marc , Grünzweig José M. , Gya Ragnhild , Hansen Karin , Jentsch Anke , Lee Hanna , Linder Sune , Marshall John , Peñuelas Josep , Kappel Schmidt Inger , Stuart‐Haëntjens Ellen , Wilfahrt Peter ,   the ClimMani Working Group, Vandvik Vigdis
Published: November 2019

Climate change is a world‐wide threat to biodiversity and ecosystem structure, functioning and services. To understand the underlying drivers and mechanisms, and to predict the consequences for nature and people, we urgently need better understanding of the direction and magnitude of climate change impacts across the soil–plant–atmosphere continuum. An increasing number of climate change studies are creating new opportunities for meaningful and high‐quality generalizations and improved process understanding. However, significant challenges exist related to data availability and/or compatibility across studies, compromising opportunities for data re‐use, synthesis and upscaling. Many of these challenges relate to a lack of an established ‘best practice’ for measuring key impacts and responses. This restrains our current understanding of complex processes and mechanisms in terrestrial ecosystems related to climate change.

To overcome these challenges, we collected best‐practice methods emerging from major ecological research networks and experiments, as synthesized by 115 experts from across a wide range of scientific disciplines. Our handbook contains guidance on the selection of response variables for different purposes, protocols for standardized measurements of 66 such response variables and advice on data management. Specifically, we recommend a minimum subset of variables that should be collected in all climate change studies to allow data re‐use and synthesis, and give guidance on additional variables critical for different types of synthesis and upscaling. The goal of this community effort is to facilitate awareness of the importance and broader application of standardized methods to promote data re‐use, availability, compatibility and transparency. We envision improved research practices that will increase returns on investments in individual research projects, facilitate second‐order research outputs and create opportunities for collaboration across scientific communities. Ultimately, this should significantly improve the quality and impact of the science, which is required to fulfil society's needs in a changing world.
Water deficit tolerance in sugarcane is dependent on the accumulation of sugar in the leaf
Authors: Garcia Fernando H. S. , das Chagas Mendonça Ane M. , Rodrigues Marcelo , Matias Filipe I. , da Silva Filho Mário P. , Santos Hugo R. B. , Taffner Julian , Barbosa João P. R. A. D.
Published: November 2019

Sugarcane productivity is severely affected by the occurrence of water deficit in the field, causing inhibition of growth and sugar production. Evaluating physiological responses of sugarcane under water deficit conditions is essential to understand physiological variables responsible for reaching homeostasis. Therefore, we analysed physiological traits of two sugarcane genotypes, RB835486 (Tolerant) and RB855453 (Susceptible), under water deficit conditions: well‐watered (WW‐Control), water deficit (WD) and rewatered (RW). The physiological response was evaluated using linear regression and multivariate analysis. Some characteristics such as water potential in leaves, photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence, chlorophyll index, sucrose and starch contents did not show differences between the genotypes under water deficit conditions. However, the tolerant genotype showed increased reducing sugars content in the leaves, whereas the susceptible genotype had increased non‐photochemical quenching (qN). After rewatering, the susceptible sugarcane genotype showed higher electron transport rate (ETR) and efficiency of PSII (Y). Multivariate analysis revealed that non‐photochemical quenching and reducing sugars in the leaves were physiological variables responsible for reaching homestasis under water deficit conditions. Therefore, the reducing sugars concentration should be considered a physiological variable responsible for the adjustment made by the tolerant sugarcane genotype when submitted to water deficit.
mTOR drives cerebrovascular, synaptic, and cognitive dysfunction in normative aging
Authors: Van Skike Candice E. , Lin Ai‐Ling , Roberts Burbank Raquel , Halloran Jonathan J. , Hernandez Stephen F. , Cuvillier James , Soto Vanessa Y. , Hussong Stacy A. , Jahrling Jordan B. , Javors Martin A. , Hart Matthew J. , Fischer Kathleen E. , Austad Steven N. , Galvan Veronica
Published: November 2019

Cerebrovascular dysfunction and cognitive decline are highly prevalent in aging, but the mechanisms underlying these impairments are unclear. Cerebral blood flow decreases with aging and is one of the earliest events in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We have previously shown that the mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) drives disease progression in mouse models of AD and in models of cognitive impairment associated with atherosclerosis, closely recapitulating vascular cognitive impairment. In the present studies, we sought to determine whether mTOR plays a role in cerebrovascular dysfunction and cognitive decline during normative aging in rats. Using behavioral tools and MRI‐based functional imaging, together with biochemical and immunohistochemical approaches, we demonstrate that chronic mTOR attenuation with rapamycin ameliorates deficits in learning and memory, prevents neurovascular uncoupling, and restores cerebral perfusion in aged rats. Additionally, morphometric and biochemical analyses of hippocampus and cortex revealed that mTOR drives age‐related declines in synaptic and vascular density during aging. These data indicate that in addition to mediating AD‐like cognitive and cerebrovascular deficits in models of AD and atherosclerosis, mTOR drives cerebrovascular, neuronal, and cognitive deficits associated with normative aging. Thus, inhibitors of mTOR may have potential to treat age‐related cerebrovascular dysfunction and cognitive decline. Since treatment of age‐related cerebrovascular dysfunction in older adults is expected to prevent further deterioration of cerebral perfusion, recently identified as a biomarker for the very early (preclinical) stages of AD, mTOR attenuation may potentially block the initiation and progression of AD.
Volumetric Prefrontal Cortex Alterations in Patients With Alcohol Dependence and the Involvement of Self‐Control
Authors: Rosenthal Annika , Beck Anne , Zois Evangelos , Vollstädt‐Klein Sabine , Walter Henrik , Kiefer Falk , Lohoff Falk W. , Charlet Katrin
Published: November 2019

Background

Aspects of self‐control such as sensation seeking and impaired impulse control have been implicated in alcohol dependence (ALC). Conversely, sensation seeking has been ascribed a possible protective role in stress‐related psychopathologies. We therefore examined gray matter (GM) morphology in individuals with ALC, focusing on differences in prefrontal regions that have been associated with self‐control. Additionally, we accounted for differences in lifetime alcohol intake regarding self‐control measures and cortical structures in ALC patients.

Methods

With voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) focusing on prefrontal a priori defined regions of interest, we assessed a group of 62 detoxified ALC patients and 62 healthy controls (HC). ALC patients were subsequently divided into high (n = 9) and low consumers (n = 53). Self‐control was assessed by use of the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale and the Sensation Seeking Scale.

Results

Compared to HC, ALC had significantly less GM volume in bilateral middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and right medial prefrontal cortex as well as in the right anterior cingulate. High‐consuming ALC showed smaller GM in right orbitofrontal cortex as well as lower sensation seeking scores than low consumers. In low‐consuming ALC, right MFG‐GM was positively associated with magnitude of sensation seeking; particularly, larger MFG‐GM correlated with greater thrill and adventure seeking.

Conclusion

Thus, our findings (i) indicate deficient GM volume in prefrontal areas related to self‐control and (ii) might accentuate the phenotypic divergence of ALC patients and emphasize the importance of the development of individual treatment options.
High‐ versus low‐intensity internet interventions for alcohol use disorders: results of a three‐armed randomized controlled superiority trial
Authors: Sundström Christopher , Eék Niels , Kraepelien Martin , Fahlke Claudia , Gajecki Mikael , Jakobson Miriam , Beckman Maria , Kaldo Viktor , Berman Anne H.
Published: November 2019

Aims

To test the efficacy of a therapist‐guided high‐intensity internet intervention compared with an unguided low‐intensity internet intervention among individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Design

A three‐group randomized controlled trial with follow‐up assessments post‐treatment (12 weeks) and 6 months post‐randomization (primary end‐point).

Settings

General population sample in Sweden.

Participants

A total of 166 on‐line self‐referred adults (49% males) with a score of 14 (females)/16 (males) or more on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, a preceding week alcohol consumption of 11 (females)/14 (males) or more standard drinks and an alcohol use disorder according to a diagnostic interview.

Interventions and comparators

Both the high‐ (n = 72) and low‐intensity internet interventions (n = 71) consisted of modules based on relapse prevention. Controls were on a waiting‐list (n = 23), and were only followed until the post‐treatment follow‐up. Participants were randomized at a 7 : 7 : 2 ratio.

Measurements

Primary outcome was self‐reported alcohol consumption in the preceding week measured as (1) number of standard drinks and (2) number of heavy drinking days at the 6‐month follow‐up.

Findings

Alcohol use disorders were largely in the severe category (74.7%), with the majority of participants having had alcohol problems for more than 5 years. Attrition was 13 and 22% at the post‐treatment and 6‐month follow‐up, respectively. At the 6‐month follow‐up, an intent‐to‐treat analysis showed no significant differences in alcohol consumption between the high‐ and low‐intensity interventions [standard drinks d = −0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.50 to 0.16; heavy drinking days: d = −0.07, 95% CI = −0.40 to 0.26]. Prevalence of negative effects was somewhat low (8–14%) in both intervention groups, as was deterioration (3–5%).

Conclusions

At 6‐month follow‐up, there were no significant differences between a therapist‐guided high‐intensity internet intervention and an unguided low‐intensity internet intervention in reducing alcohol consumption among individuals with an alcohol use disorder.
Differences in nicotine intake and effects from electronic and combustible cigarettes among dual users
Authors: St.Helen Gideon , Nardone Natalie , Addo Newton , Dempsey Delia , Havel Christopher , Jacob Peyton , Benowitz Neal L.
Published: November 2019

Aim

To describe systemic nicotine exposure and subjective effects of electronic cigarettes (e‐cigarettes) in people who use both e‐cigarettes and cigarettes (dual users), including within‐subject comparisons of e‐cigarette and cigarette use.

Design

Two‐arm, counterbalanced cross‐over study. Participants used their usual brand of e‐cigarette or cigarette during a standardized session in a 2‐week study.

Setting

Hospital research ward, San Francisco, CA, USA.

Participants

Thirty‐six healthy (eight women, 28 men) participants.

Measurements

Plasma nicotine was analyzed by gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry; nicotine withdrawal, urge to smoke and vape, affective states, craving, satisfaction and psychological reward were measured by standardized questionnaires.

Findings

Compared with cigarettes, average maximum plasma nicotine concentration (Cmax) was lower with e‐cigarettes [6.1 ± 5.5 ng/ml, mean ± standard deviation (SD) versus 20.2 ± 11.1 ng/ml, P < 0.001] and time of maximal concentration (Tmax) was longer (6.5 ± 5.4 versus 2.7 ± 2.4 minutes, P < 0.001). Use of both products resulted in a reduction in the severity of withdrawal symptoms, negative affect and urge to use either product. E‐cigarettes were less rewarding and satisfying and reduced craving to a lesser degree than cigarettes. We were not able to detect any differences in withdrawal symptoms, affective states and urge to smoke cigarettes between e‐cigarette and cigarette use.

Conclusion

Systemic nicotine exposure was, on average, lower with single use of e‐cigarettes compared with cigarettes, and e‐cigarettes were judged to be less satisfying and rewarding and reduced craving less than cigarettes.
Genome‐wide association analysis for lethal brachycephalic‐like facial dysmorphia in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Vasiliadis D. , Dierks C. , Hoffmann H. , Hellige M. , Hewicker‐Trautwein M. , Metzger J. , Distl O.
Published: November 2019

A GWAS was performed for inborn X‐linked facial dysmorphia with severe growth retardation in Labrador Retrievers. This lethal condition was mapped on the X chromosome at 17–21 Mb and supported by eight SNPs in complete LD. Dams of affected male puppies were heterozygous for the significantly associated SNPs and male affected puppies carried the associated alleles hemizygously. In the near vicinity to the associated region, RPS6KA3 was identified as a candidate gene causing facial dysmorphia in humans and mice known as Coffin–Lowry syndrome. Haplotype analysis showed significant association with the phenotypes of all 18 animals under study. This haplotype was validated through normal male progeny from a dam with the not‐associated haplotype on both X chromosomes but male affected full‐sibs with the associated haplotype.
What are older people and their families looking for in an aged care services provider?
Authors: Parkinson Lynne , Banbury Annie , Hillman Wendy , Lee Julie
Published: November 2019

Objective

Choosing an aged care services provider is a complex decision. This study explored the factors older people and their families consider during this decision‐making process.

Methods

Four focus groups (two in rural, two in urban Queensland) included older people using and not using aged care services and family members seeking residential aged care services.

Results

Four themes emerged from the analysis of participants' perspectives, with human needs (such as autonomy, caring, respect, certainty) and organisational values (such as person‐centredness) viewed as most important. Costs, value for money and regulatory considerations were sometimes perceived to be more important than locality. The perceived significance of facilities, services and amenity needs differed according to age and time of life, although a clear pathway to residential aged care facilities from living in the community was desired. Finding information, planning and choosing providers was seen to be hindered by lack of accessible, quality information.

Conclusions

Meeting human needs (such as autonomy, caring, respect, certainty) through organisational values (such as person‐centredness) is the most desirable factor according to the perceptions of older people and their families when choosing an aged care services provider.