bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using functional traits to model annual plant community dynamics
Authors: Metcalfe Helen , Milne Alice E. , Deledalle Florent , Storkey Jonathan
Published: September 2020

Predicting the response of biological communities to changes in the environment or management is a fundamental pursuit of community ecology. Meeting this challenge requires the integration of multiple processes: habitat filtering, niche differentiation, biotic interactions, competitive exclusion, and stochastic demographic events. Most approaches to this long‐standing problem focus either on the role of the environment, using trait‐based filtering approaches, or on quantifying biotic interactions with process‐based community dynamics models. We introduce a novel approach that uses functional traits to parameterize a process‐based model. By combining the two approaches we make use of the extensive literature on traits and community filtering as a convenient means of reducing the parameterization requirements of a complex population dynamics model whilst retaining the power to capture the processes underlying community assembly. Using arable weed communities as a case study, we demonstrate that this approach results in predictions that show realistic distributions of traits and that trait selection predicted by our simulations is consistent with in‐field observations. We demonstrate that trait‐based filtering approaches can be combined with process‐based models to derive the emergent distribution of traits. While initially developed to predict the impact of crop management on functional shifts in weed communities, our approach has the potential to be applied to other annual plant communities if the generality of relationships between traits and model parameters can be confirmed.
Previous exposure mediates the response of eelgrass to future warming via clonal transgenerational plasticity
Authors: DuBois Katherine , Williams Susan L. , Stachowicz John J.
Published: September 2020

Mortality and shifts in species distributions are among the most obvious consequences of extreme climatic events. However, the sublethal effects of an extreme event can have persistent impacts throughout an individual’s lifetime and into future generations via within‐generation and transgenerational phenotypic plasticity. These changes can either confer resilience or increase susceptibility to subsequent stressful events, with impacts on population, community, and potentially ecosystem processes. Here, we show how a simulated extreme warming event causes persistent changes in the morphology and growth of a foundation species (eelgrass, Zostera marina) across multiple clonal generations and multiple years. The effect of previous parental exposure to warming increased aboveground biomass, shoot length, and aboveground–belowground biomass ratios while also greatly decreasing leaf growth rates. Long‐term increases in aboveground–belowground biomass ratios could indicate an adaptive clonal transgenerational response to warmer climates that reduces the burden of increased respiration in belowground biomass. These transgenerational responses were likely decoupled from clonal parent provisioning as rhizome size of clonal offspring was standardized at planting and rhizome starch reserves were not impacted by warming treatments. Future investigations into potential epigenetic mechanisms underpinning such clonal transgenerational plasticity will be necessary to understand the resilience of asexual foundation species to repeated extreme climatic events.
Functional differentiation accompanies taxonomic homogenization in freshwater fish communities
Authors: Campbell Sara E. , Mandrak Nicholas E.
Published: September 2020

The addition of nonnative species and loss of native species has modified the composition of communities globally. Although changes in β‐diversity have been well documented, there is a need for studies incorporating multiple time periods, more than one dimension of biodiversity, and inclusion of nestedness and turnover components to understand the underlying mechanisms structuring community composition and assembly. Here, we examined temporal changes in functional dissimilarity of fish communities of the Laurentian Great Lakes and compared these changes to those of taxonomic dissimilarity by decade from 1870 to 2010. Jaccard‐derived functional dissimilarity index was used to quantify changes in functional β‐diversity within communities, between all possible pairs of communities, and using a multiple‐site index among all communities. β‐diversity was partitioned into components of nestedness and turnover, and changes were examined over time. Similar to patterns in taxonomic dissimilarity, each community functionally differentiated from the historical community of 1870, with Lake Superior changing the most (~24%) and Lake Ontario the least (~14%). Although communities have become taxonomically homogenized, functional β‐diversity among all communities has increased over time, indicating functional differentiation. This is likely due to functional similarity between the communities being historically high (i.e., ~88% similar in 1870). The higher taxonomic relative to functional turnover indicates that the species being replaced between communities are functionally redundant, which could occur given the harsh environmental conditions of the region and/or as a result of the recent glacial history of the region. High functional nestedness across communities reflects dispersal limitations, with smaller communities being functional subsets of large communities closer to source populations. The functional differentiation observed is likely due to nonnative species with functional traits unique to the region establishing or the loss of functionally redundant native species; however, it is important to note that patterns of homogenization were periodically observed through time. Our study demonstrates the possible factors regulating diversity in the Laurentian Great Lakes fish communities, that patterns of taxonomic and functional β‐diversity are dynamic over time and vary in the magnitude and direction of change, and that taxonomic diversity should not be used to predict changes in functional diversity.
Development of discharge plasma waveguide with external magnetic field for laser plasma acceleration
Authors: Osawa Makito , Kajiuchi Yuki , Sawada Kyouhei , Takahashi Kazumasa , Sasaki Toru , Kikuchi Takashi
Published: September 2020

To improve the acceleration length in laser plasma acceleration, we investigate the discharge plasma waveguide with a magnetic field. The discharge circuit consists of two pulsed‐power circuits for preionization and main discharge. Discharges were repeated through the circuit using high‐power semiconductor switches. Laser propagation characteristics of discharge plasma waveguide with the external magnetic field were observed. The results show that the reproducibility of waveguide with the external magnetic field is relatively high compared to that without magnetic field. The laser intensity gradually decreases with the strength of external magnetic field. These results suggest that the electron density profile is possible to control using the discharge plasma waveguide with an external magnetic field.
Sexism and racism perceptions: It depends on who does it and why
Authors: Bastart Jennifer , Branscombe Nyla R. , Sarda Elisa , Delmas Florian
Published: September 2020

Outgroup perpetrators of discrimination are perceived as more biased than ingroup perpetrators, potentially because perpetrator group membership drives inferences regarding their motivation to discriminate. Consequently, when outgroup perpetrators provide hostile justification, greater discrimination and illegitimacy will be perceived compared to when ingroup perpetrators do so. In contrast, benevolent justifications reduce differences in discrimination and illegitimacy perception for outgroup versus ingroup perpetrators. In two experiments (Ns = 243; 382) dealing with sexism and racism, results supported our reasoning that the perpetrator’s explicit justification moderates the influence of the perpetrator’s group membership on discrimination and illegitimacy perception. Results of a third experiment (N = 489) show that when no justifications are provided, the prototype effect on discrimination perception mirrors the prototype effect under hostile justification, but not under benevolent justification. The results are more mixed concerning perceived illegitimacy. We discuss the implications of these findings regarding the processes underlying the prototype effect.
Low Temperature Hydrothermal Method for Synthesis of Crystalline Fe2O3 and their Oxygen Evolution Performance
Authors: Rana Supriya , Yadav Krishna K. , Sood Kritika , Ankush  , Mehta S. K. , Jha Menaka
Published: September 2020

Hydrothermal method for the synthesis of hematite (α‐Fe2O3) has been done at 120 °C. Morphological study reveals the formation of spherical nanoparticles of average size ∼10 nm. The prepared electrode (Fe2O3 dropcosted over graphite sheet) used as a working electrode for the oxygen evolution reaction in 1 M KOH. The linear sweep voltammetry confirms that the as‐prepared electrode requires 340 mV potential to reach a current density of 1 mA/cm2 and 510 mV potential for 10 mA/cm2. Further, the kinetics of electrocatalyst has been investigated using Tafel slope, mass activity and Turn over frequency.
Fast, Simple and Sensitive Determination of Coumaric Acid in Fruit Juice Samples by Magnetite Nanoparticles‐zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Material
Authors: Şenocak Ahmet
Published: September 2020

In this work, magnetic iron nanoparticle (Fe3O4) was functionalized a zeolitic imidalozate framework (ZIF‐4) material by co‐precipitation process to provide a magnetic hybrid nanomaterial, viz. Fe3O4@ZIF‐4. The structural characterization was performed different spectroscopic, thermal and microscopic techniques. Moreover, voltammetric sensor properties of Fe3O4@ZIF‐4 nanohybrid material for determination of p‐coumaric acid (CA) were performed by differential pulse (DPV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). A reliable and selective electroanalytical method exhibited for the detection of CA. It was found that the deposition of Fe3O4@ZIF‐4 nanohybrid on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) brought about 2.3, 3.5 and 5.0 fold more sensitive than Fe3O4/GCE, ZIF‐4/GCE and unmodified GCE responses to CA in Britton‐Robinson (B−R) buffer solution (a pH of 4). The detection, quantification limits and linear range of CA were determined as 0.18, 0.60 μM and 0.50–12.00 μM. The stability, repeatability and selectivity of the suggested Fe3O4@ZIF‐4 modified GCE sensor was fully investigated. In addition, an application of orange juices samples was performed on modified electrode for determination of CA, which was showed by a standard addition method with verifying of High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Besides the ease of synthesis and low price, the suggested Fe3O4@ZIF‐4/GCE sensor offers repeatability, selectivity, stability and easy to apply to real samples.
Highly Sensitive Impedimetric Biosensor Based on Thermolysin Immobilized on a GCE Modified with AuNP‐decorated Graphene for the Detection of Ochratoxin A
Authors: Zinoubi Khaoula , Chrouda Amani , Soltane Raya , Al‐Ghamdi Youssef O. , Garallah Almalki Sami , Osman Gamal , Barhoumi Houcine , Jaffrezic Renault Nicole
Published: September 2020

The fabrication of a thermolysin‐based biosensor capable of detecting ochratoxin A (OTA) from food samples is described. The electrochemical deposition of calcium cross‐linked cellulose film (CCLC) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on graphene (GR) for modification of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) is the first step. Then the thermolysin (TLN) enzyme in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyethylenimine (PEI) matrix is immobilized. The impedimetric biosensor response is linear from 0.2 nM to 100 nM with a detection limit of 0.2 nM. The obtained stable and reproducible biosensor is then applied for the detection of OTA in spiked extracts from coffee beans.
An enhanced adaptive global‐best harmony search algorithm for continuous optimization problems
Authors: Yarmohamadi Hasan , Zhang Qianyun , Jiao Pengcheng , Alavi Amir H.
Published: September 2020

This paper presents an enhanced adaptive global‐best harmony search (EAGHS) to solve global continuous optimization problems. The global‐best HS (GHS) is one of the strongest versions of the classical HS algorithm that hybridizes the concepts of swarm intelligence and conventional HS. However, randomized selection of harmony in the permissible interval diverts the GHS algorithm from the global optimum. To address this issue, the proposed EAGHS method introduces a dynamic coefficient into the GHS algorithm to increase the search power in early iterations. Various complex and extensively‐applied benchmark functions are used to validate the developed EAGHS algorithm. The results indicate that the EAGHS algorithm offers faster convergence and better accuracy than the standard HS, GHS and other similar algorithms. Further analysis is performed to evaluate the sensitivity of the proposed method to the changes of parameters such as harmony memory consideration rate, harmony search memory, and larger dimensions.
Sum‐throughput maximization for overlay cognitive wireless powered network with energy harvesting capability
Authors: Rezaie Mostafa , Dosaranian‐Moghadam Mohamad , Bakhshi Hamidreza , Hassannejad Bibalan Mohammadreza
Published: September 2020

In this article, a novel time division multiple access (TDMA)‐based approach for optimal resource allocation in an overlay cognitive wireless powered communication network is proposed. In this network, power in the secondary network (SN) is provided by the primary network (PN) in addition to its own wireless network. Using the TDMA and a harvest‐then‐transmit protocol, the time and power allocation for downlink wireless energy transfer (WET) and uplink wireless information transmission (WIT) are jointly optimized to maximize the sum‐throughput in SN. Quality of service in PN and power and time in SN, as the main constrains are considered for sum‐throughput maximization in this network. This is a non‐convex problem which gets converted to a convex problem using active interference‐temperature control technique. Moreover, a new closed‐form expression which results in sub‐optimal power and time‐allocation (SO‐PT‐A) is addressed. The performance of proposed algorithm is compared with the equal time allocation (ETA) and fixed TDMA‐allocation (FTDMA‐A) algorithms which impose some special constraints for optimal power and time allocation. The simulation results depict that the SO‐PT‐A algorithm outperforms the ETA and FTDMA‐A algorithms. Eventually, the performance of the SO‐PT‐A algorithm is evaluated with other well‐known algorithms considering different values of the average and maximum transmit power of the hybrid‐access point (H‐AP), the number of secondary users (SUs) and path loss exponent.
Deep learning in medical imaging: A brief review
Authors: Serte Sertan , Serener Ali , Al‐Turjman Fadi
Published: September 2020

Researchers have used deep learning methods for a human level or better disease identification and detection. This paper reports, in brief, the recent work in deep learning identification of diseases occurring at three unique parts of the human body: the skin, the thorax, and the eye. While earlier reviews reported on the theory, applications, and challenges of such research, what distinguishes this work from the others is the reporting and comprehensive analysis of the key results. In doing so, the paper not only summarizes the major conclusions drawn from them but also emphasizes their weaknesses. The hope is to help the researchers see the big picture in deep learning classification of the diseases of the skin, the thorax and the eye, and guide them to find the right future research direction.
Reduced order framework for convection dominant and pure diffusive problems based on combination of deep long short‐term memory and proper orthogonal decomposition/dynamic mode decomposition methods
Authors: Kherad Mahdi , Moayyedi Mohammad Kazem , Fotouhi Faranak
Published: September 2020

In many real‐world applications, mathematical models are highly complex, and numerical simulations in high‐dimensional systems are challenging. Model order reduction is a useful method to obtain a reasonable approximation by significantly reducing the computational cost of such problems. Deep learning technology is a recent improvement in artificial neural networks that can find more hidden information from the data. Deep learning has the advantage of processing data in its raw form and trains the nonlinear system with different levels of representation and predicts the data. In this article, a reduced order model framework based on a combination of deep learning [long short‐term memory (LSTM)] and proper orthogonal decomposition/dynamic mode decomposition (POD/DMD) modes is presented. Due to the robustness and stability of the LSTM recurrent neural network in predicting chaotic dynamical systems, we consider LSTM architecture to develop our data‐driven reduced order modeling (ROM). We investigate the proposed method performance by solving two well‐known canonical cases: a steady shear flow exhibiting the Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability, and two‐dimensional and unsteady mass diffusion equation. The focus of this article is to use LSTM deep recursive neural network to learn the time dynamics and POD/DMD to generate the order reduction model. The results show that the proposed method is very accurate in predicting time dynamics and input reconstruction.
Diacylglycerol lipase alpha in astrocytes is involved in maternal care and affective behaviors
Authors: Schüle Lena‐Louise , Glasmacher Sandra , Gertsch Jürg , Roggan Marie Denise , Transfeld Janis‐Lisa , Bindila Laura , Lutz Beat , Kolbe Carl‐Christian , Bilkei‐Gorzo Andras , Zimmer Andreas , Leidmaa Este
Published: September 2020

Genetic deletion of cannabinoid CB1 receptors or diacylglycerol lipase alpha (DAGLa), the main enzyme involved in the synthesis of the endocannabinoid (eCB) 2‐arachidonoylglycerol (2‐AG), produced profound phenotypes in animal models of depression‐related behaviors. Furthermore, clinical studies have shown that antagonists of CB1 can increase the incidence and severity of major depressive episodes. However, the underlying pathomechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we have focused on the possible involvement of astrocytes. Using the highly sensitive RNAscope technology, we show for the first time that a subpopulation of astrocytes in the adult mouse brain expresses Dagla, albeit at low levels. Targeted lipidomics revealed that astrocytic DAGLa only accounts for a minor percentage of the steady‐state brain 2‐AG levels and other arachidonic acid derived lipids like prostaglandins. Nevertheless, the deletion of Dagla in adult mouse astrocytes had profound behavioral consequences with significantly increased depressive‐like behavioral responses and striking effects on maternal behavior, corresponding with increased levels of serum progesterone and estradiol. Our findings therefore indicate that lipids from the DAGLa metabolic axis in astrocytes play a key regulatory role in affective behaviors.
Birth weight is associated with adolescent brain development: A multimodal imaging study in monozygotic twins
Authors: Hayward Dana A. , Pomares Florence , Casey Kevin F. , Ismaylova Elmira , Levesque Melissa , Greenlaw Keelin , Vitaro Frank , Brendgen Mara , Rénard Felix , Dionne Ginette , Boivin Michel , Tremblay Richard E. , Booij Linda
Published: September 2020

Previous research has shown that the prenatal environment, commonly indexed by birth weight (BW), is a predictor of morphological brain development. We previously showed in monozygotic (MZ) twins associations between BW and brain morphology that were independent of genetics. In the present study, we employed a longitudinal MZ twin design to investigate whether variations in prenatal environment (as indexed by discordance in BW) are associated with resting‐state functional connectivity (rs‐FC) and with structural connectivity. We focused on the limbic and default mode networks (DMNs), which are key regions for emotion regulation and internally generated thoughts, respectively. One hundred and six healthy adolescent MZ twins (53 pairs; 42% male pairs) followed longitudinally from birth underwent a magnetic resonance imaging session at age 15. Graph theoretical analysis was applied to rs‐FC measures. TrackVis was used to determine track count as an indicator of structural connectivity strength. Lower BW twins had less efficient limbic network connectivity as compared to their higher BW co‐twin, driven by differences in the efficiency of the right hippocampus and right amygdala. Lower BW male twins had fewer tracks connecting the right hippocampus and right amygdala as compared to their higher BW male co‐twin. There were no associations between BW and the DMN. These findings highlight the possible role of unique prenatal environmental influences in the later development of efficient spontaneous limbic network connections within healthy individuals, irrespective of DNA sequence or shared environment.
Avoidable environmental disasters and infant health: Evidence from a mining dam collapse in Brazil
Authors: Carrillo Bladimir , Da Mata Daniel , Emanuel Lucas , Lopes Daniel , Sampaio Breno
Published: September 2020

We study the health consequences of one of the largest environmental disasters of the world mining industry, which largely stemmed from regulatory failure. Exploiting the timing and location of the Mariana mine tailings dam collapse in Brazil, we show that in utero exposure to the tragedy significantly reduced birth weight and increased infant mortality. The adverse effects were stronger for infants born to less educated and nonmarried mothers. These findings indicate that poorly enforced environmental regulation may have long‐term welfare impacts on local communities.
Transient free convection of a second‐grade fluid flowing in a vertical cylinder
Authors: Dwivedi Naveen , Singh Arun Kumar , Singh Ashok Kumar
Published: September 2020

The intention of the present article is to examine the transient effect on the free convection of the second‐grade fluid flowing in a vertical cylinder. We have found the analytical solution of the derived governing partial differential equations in nondimensional form corresponding to the velocity as well as the temperature fields by applying the Laplace transformation method in terms of the Bessel function of the first kind. To obtain the impacts of the appropriate parameters related to the given equations, such as the second‐grade fluid parameter and the Prandtl number, the numerical values of the velocity are discussed and displayed in graphs. Furthermore, the mass flow rate and the skin friction at the inner surface of the cylinder are given in a tabular form. The influence of the second‐grade fluid parameter is to decelerate the velocity as well as the mass flow rate and to enhance the steady‐state time.
Intraseasonal predictability of the duration of flooding above National Weather Service flood warning levels across the U.S. Midwest
Authors: Neri Andrea , Villarini Gabriele , Napolitano Francesco
Published: September 2020

Unpreparedness is often the main cause of the economic and social damages caused by floods. To mitigate these impacts, short‐term forecasting has been the focus of several studies during the past decades; however, less effort has been paid to flood predictions at longer lead times. Here, we use forecasts by six models from the North American Multi‐Model Ensemble project with a lead time from 0.5 to 9.5 months to predict the seasonal duration of floods above four National Weather Service flood categories (“action,” “flood,” “moderate” and “major”). We focus on 202 U.S. Geological Survey gage stations across the U.S. Midwest and use a statistical framework which considers precipitation, temperature, and antecedent wetness conditions as predictors. We find that the prediction skill of the duration of floods for the “action” and “flood” categories is overall low, largely because of the low accuracy of the climate forecasts rather than of the errors introduced by the statistical models. The prediction skill slightly improves when considering the shortest lead times (i.e., from 0.5 to 2.5 months) during spring in the Northern Great Plains, where antecedent wetness conditions play an important role in influencing the generation of floods. It is very difficult to draw strong conclusions with respect to the “moderate” and “major” flood categories because of the limited number of available events.
Mutations in ATM, NBN and BRCA2 predispose to aggressive prostate cancer in Poland
Authors: Wokołorczyk Dominika , Kluźniak Wojciech , Huzarski Tomasz , Gronwald Jacek , Szymiczek Agata , Rusak Bogna , Stempa Klaudia , Gliniewicz Katarzyna , Kashyap Aniruddh , Morawska Sylwia , Dębniak Tadeusz , Jakubowska Anna , Szwiec Marek , Domagała Paweł , Lubiński Jan , Narod Steven A. , Akbari Mohammad R. , Cybulski Cezary ,   The Polish Hereditary Prostate Cancer Consortium
Published: September 2020

In designing national strategies for genetic testing, it is important to define the full spectrum of pathogenic mutations in prostate cancer (PCa) susceptibility genes. To investigate the frequency of mutations in PCa susceptibility genes in Polish familial PCa cases and to estimate gene‐related PCa risks and probability of aggressive disease, we analyzed the coding regions of 14 genes by exome sequencing in 390 men with familial prostate cancer and 308 cancer‐free controls. We compared the mutation frequencies between PCa cases and controls. We also compared clinical characteristics of prostate cancers between mutation carriers and noncarriers. Of the 390 PCa cases, 76 men (19.5%) carried a mutation in BRCA1, BRCA2, NBN, ATM, CHEK2, HOXB13, MSH2 or MSH6 genes. No mutations were found in BRIP1, PTEN, TP53, MLH1, PMS2 and SPOP. Significant associations with familial PCa risk were observed for CHEK2, NBN, ATM, and HOXB13. High‐grade (Gleason 8‐10) tumors were seen in 56% of BRCA2, NBN or ATM carriers, compared to 21% of patients who tested negative for mutations in these genes (OR = 4.7, 95% CI 2.0‐10.7, P = .0003). In summary, approximately 20% of familial prostate cancer cases in Poland can be attributed to mutations in eight susceptibility genes. Carriers of mutations in BRCA2, NBN and ATM develop aggressive disease and may benefit from intensified screening and/or chemotherapy.
Age‐dependent performance of BRAF mutation testing in Lynch syndrome diagnostics
Authors: Bläker Hendrik , Haupt Saskia , Morak Monika , Holinski‐Feder Elke , Arnold Alexander , Horst David , Sieber‐Frank Julia , Seidler Florian , von Winterfeld Moritz , Alwers Elizabeth , Chang‐Claude Jenny , Brenner Hermann , Roth Wilfried , Engel Christoph , Löffler Markus , Möslein Gabriela , Schackert Hans‐Konrad , Weitz Jürgen , Perne Claudia , Aretz Stefan , Hüneburg Robert , Schmiegel Wolff , Vangala Deepak , Rahner Nils , Steinke‐Lange Verena , Heuveline Vincent , von Knebel Doeberitz Magnus , Ahadova Aysel , Hoffmeister Michael , Kloor Matthias ,   The German Consortium for Familial Intestinal Cancer
Published: September 2020

BRAF V600E mutations have been reported as a marker of sporadic microsatellite instability (MSI) colorectal cancer (CRC). Current international diagnostic guidelines recommend BRAF mutation testing in MSI CRC patients to predict low risk of Lynch syndrome (LS). We evaluated the age‐specific performance of BRAF testing in LS diagnostics. We systematically compared the prevalence of BRAF mutations in LS‐associated CRCs and unselected MSI CRCs in different age groups as available from published studies, databases and population‐based patient cohorts. Sensitivity/specificity analysis of BRAF testing for exclusion of LS and cost calculations were performed. Among 969 MSI CRCs from LS carriers in the literature and German HNPCC Consortium, 15 (1.6%) harbored BRAF mutations. Six of seven LS patients with BRAF‐mutant CRC and reported age were <50 years. Among 339 of 756 (44.8%) of BRAF mutations detected in unselected MSI CRC, only 2 of 339 (0.6%) BRAF mutations were detected in patients <50 years. The inclusion of BRAF testing led to high risk of missing LS patients and increased costs at age <50 years. BRAF testing in patients <50 years carries a high risk of missing a hereditary cancer predisposition and is cost‐inefficient. We suggest direct referral of MSI CRC patients <50 years to genetic counseling without BRAF testing.
Financial development and economic growth: Empirical evidence from Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Yusheng Kong , Bawuah Jonas , Nkwantabisa Agyeiwaa O. , Atuahene Samuel O. O. , Djan George O.
Published: September 2020

This paper evaluates the impact of financial development on economic growth in a sample of 32 Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) countries. The countries were grouped into four sub‐regions, and data were collected for the period 1990–2016 on finance and growth indicators on an annual basis. In the estimation procedure, panel estimation and dynamic panel techniques were used. When the disaggregated components of financial development variables were used, findings, among others, reveal the role of credit to the private sector by banks (CPB) even though mixed, to have more impact on growth followed by broad money (BM) and liquidity liability (LL). However, an aggregated index of the financial development indicators via principal component analysis and their simultaneous interaction with human capital improvement brought about a greater positive impact on growth throughout the sub‐regions and the entire SSA.
The DuPont financial indicators and the short‐term market performance of Chinese cross‐border M&As: The moderating role of payment method
Authors: Feng Zhengqiang , Xie Siman
Published: September 2020

Using the data of Chinese cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&As) from 2003 to 2017, we investigate the influence of the internal financial conditions of enterprises on the short‐term market performance of Chinese cross‐border M&As by applying improved DuPont financial analysis, an event study and regression analysis and further explore the moderating effect of payment method in Chinese cross‐border M&A. The findings are threefold. First, we observe significant positive cumulative abnormal returns (CARs) of Chinese cross‐border M&As, along with the underperformance of cross‐border M&As financed with pure cash payments compared to those financed with other payment methods. Second, the profitability and financial leverage of Chinese enterprises engaged in cross‐border M&As are significantly positively and significantly negatively correlated with CARs, respectively, while the impact of the operating capacity on CARs is limited. Finally, we note that the negative influence of financial leverage on CARs is enhanced in pure cash bids, which indicates that the payment method plays a prominent moderating role in the impact of financial leverage on the short‐term market performance of Chinese cross‐border M&As. Our result suggests that one reason for the underperformance of cross‐border M&As financed with pure cash payment compared to M&As financed with other payment methods is the negative effect of financial leverage, which is augmented in cross‐border M&As financed with pure cash payment.
Financial crises and institutional quality
Authors: Sever Can
Published: September 2020

Are financial crises particularly bad for economies, if the institutional quality deteriorates at the onset of crises? Policy responses can mitigate adverse consequences of financial crises. However, implementation and effectiveness of prudent policy actions are in turn dependent on the institutional environment. Using panel data for a large set of countries, I show that a weakening in the institutional quality within the period of a banking crisis is associated with additional output losses, above and beyond the effects of the individual banking crisis and weakening in the institutional quality, which are long lasting. This is not the case for a deterioration in the institutional quality within the periods of debt and currency crises. Finally, I document that additional losses from a deterioration in the institutional quality at the onset of a banking crisis are more pronounced in financially less open economies in which domestic policy actions are potentially more crucial in recovery. These suggest that policymakers should take steps to strengthen the institutional environment to facilitate recovery, especially during the periods of banking distress.
The impact of government assistance on banks' efficiency
Authors: Palas Md. Jahir Uddin , Moreira Fernando
Published: September 2020

This study investigates the impact of the Capital Purchase Program (CPP) on recipient banks' efficiency. While the related literature typically relies on the Difference‐in‐Differences (DiD) approach, which has considerable limitations in this context, we conduct Instrumental Variable analyses by adopting three innovative instruments based on the influence of donations to political campaigns on receiving government support. Using data from 2000 to 2017, we find that CPP assistance has a significant negative causal relationship with recipient banks' efficiency. Our results are robust to alternative sample specifications and estimation methods.
Lysyl oxidase‐variant 2 (LOX‐v2) colocalizes with promyelocytic leukemia‐nuclear bodies in the nucleus
Authors: Li Chunying , Sharma‐Bhandari Anjali , Seo Jae Ho , Kim Youngho
Published: September 2020

Lysyl oxidase‐variant 2 (LOX‐v2) is a novel variant of LOX that functions as an amine oxidase for the formation of collagen and elastin fibrils in the extracellular matrix (ECM). LOX‐v2 lacks the N‐terminal prepropeptide region of LOX but contains the C‐terminal domains required for amine oxidase activity. To study the cellular localization of LOX‐v2, we generated a recombinant construct of LOX‐v2 with an epitope tag at the C‐terminus and then transfected the recombinant construct into HEK293 cells. Upon ectopic expression, LOX‐v2 showed much higher expression in the nucleus than in the cytoplasm. In coimmunofluorescence staining with subnuclear structures, LOX‐v2 colocalized with the promyelocytic leukemia‐nuclear bodies (PML‐NBs). Further, the ectopic expression of LOX‐v2 increased global SUMOylation in the nucleus. PML‐NBs have been implicated in various cellular activities, including transcriptional regulation, DNA repair, cell cycle control, anti‐viral response, and apoptosis. Our findings strongly indicate that LOX‐v2 may be subject to different cellular processing from what LOX undergoes, playing a distinct functional role in the PML‐NBs, beyond the cross‐linking of the structural proteins.
Macrophages Switch to an Osteo‐Modulatory Profile Upon RANKL Induction in a Medaka (Oryzias latipes) Osteoporosis Model
Authors: Phan Quang Tien , Liu Ranran , Tan Wen Hui , Imangali Nurgul , Cheong Benedict , Schartl Manfred , Winkler Christoph
Published: September 2020

In mammals, osteoclasts differentiate from macrophages in the monocyte lineage. Although many factors driving osteoclast formation are known, the detailed processes underlying precursor recruitment, differentiation, and interaction of macrophages with other cell types involved in bone remodeling are poorly understood. Using live imaging in a transgenic medaka osteoporosis model, where ectopic osteoclasts are induced by RANKL expression, we show that a subset of macrophages is recruited to bone matrix to physically interact with bone‐forming osteoblast progenitors. These macrophages subsequently differentiate into cathepsin K‐ (ctsk‐) positive osteoclasts. One day later, other macrophages are recruited to clear dying osteoclasts from resorbed bone by phagocytosis. To better understand the molecular changes underlying these dynamic processes, we performed transcriptome profiling of activated macrophages upon RANKL induction. This revealed an upregulation of several bone‐related transcripts. Besides osteoclast markers, we unexpectedly also found expression of osteoblast‐promoting signals in activated macrophages, suggesting a possible non‐cell autonomous role in osteogenesis. Finally, we show that macrophage differentiation into osteoclasts is dependent on inflammatory signals. Medaka deficient for TNFα or treated with the TNFα‐inhibitor pentoxifylline exhibited impaired macrophage recruitment and osteoclast differentiation. These results show the involvement of inflammatory signals and the dynamics of a distinct subset of macrophages during osteoclast formation. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in a critically ill Covid‐19 patient
Authors: Altmayer Victor , Saheb Samir , Rohaut Benjamin , Marois Clémence , Cao Albert , Gallo Antonio , Le Guennec Loïc , Weiss Nicolas , Demeret Sophie
Published: September 2020

Here we describe the effect of therapeutic plasma exchange with 5% albumin as sole replacement solution for the management of Covid‐19. A 74‐year‐old man was admitted for severe Covid‐19 acute respiratory distress syndrome. Based on the growing body of evidence that cytokine release syndrome, and especially interleukin‐6, plays a key role in critically ill Covid‐19 patients, we decided to implement therapeutic plasma exchange as a rescue therapy. The patient's clinical status rapidly improved, and biological records showed convincing results of decrease in interleukin‐6 and inflammatory parameters under treatment. This case presents a proof‐of‐concept for the use of therapeutic plasma exchange with 5% albumin as sole replacement solution in a critically ill Covid‐19 patient with cytokine release syndrome. This could constitute a major benefit in terms of security compared to long‐lasting immunosuppressive monoclonal antibodies, or to therapeutic plasma exchange with plasma as replacement fluid. Hence, we think that a further evaluation of risk‐benefit balance of this therapy in severe cases of Covid‐19 should rapidly be undertaken.
Pollen diversity and its implications to the systematics of mimosaceous species by LM and SEM
Authors: Khan Shahzeb Ullah , Zafar Muhammad , Ullah Riaz , Shahat Abdelaaty A. , Ahmad Mushtaq , Sultana Shazia , Malik Khafsa
Published: September 2020

In this study we have discussed pollen morphology of 14 mimosaceous species belonging to five genera by using light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The palynological features of species were determined by both qualitative and quantitative characters. The qualitative characters include pollen shape, colpi arrangement, and exine sculpturing. Oblate spheroidal shaped pollens were noted in Albizia procera, Albizia lebbeck, Acacia tortilis, Acacia ampliceps, and Acacia modesta, subprolate shaped pollen in Leucaena leucocephala, Prosopis julifera, and Acacia nilotica, prolate pollen in Acacia farnesiana and Prosopis glandulosa while spheroidal, sub spheroidal and sub oblate pollen grains were observed in Acacia catechu, Mimosa himalayana, Prosopis cineraria, respectively. Sparsely foveolate, reticulate, scabrate, and scrobiclate exine sculpturing were observed. Colpi with sunken ornamentation were seen in P. cineraria, P. glandulosa, P. juliflora, and L. leucocephala while colpi were absent in rest of the studied species. The quantitative characters were statistically studied using SPSS software. The current study gives important morpho‐palynological characters for identifying and validation of close related and similar taxa which will aid to the phylogenetic analysis of Mimosaceae family.
Does laser etching have an effect on application mode of a universal adhesive?—A microleakage and scanning electron microscopy evaluation
Authors: Atalay Cansu , Uslu Aybuke , Yazici Ayşe Ruya
Published: September 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the microleakage of a universal adhesive's different application modes incorporated with Er,Cr:YSGG laser on Class V resin composite restorations. Sound human molar teeth (n = 30) were used for microleakage evaluations. Specimens with 60 standardized Class V cavities were divided into five groups according to the adhesive modes of universal adhesive, Adhese Universal (n = 12). Group 1‐etch‐and‐rinse mode with phosphoric acid; Group 2‐etch‐and‐rinse mode with Er,Cr:YSGG laser; Group 3‐selective‐etch mode with phosphoric acid; Group 4‐selective‐etch mode with Er,Cr:YSGG laser; Group 5‐self‐etch. After restorations were performed with a resin composite, Tetric N‐Ceram, the specimens were polished and subjected to thermocycling (10,000X). Following immersion in 0.5% basic fuschin for a day, the teeth were sectioned and the degree of microleakage was determined along the tooth‐resin composite interface using a light microscopy(40X). Five specimens from each group were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The Kruskal–Wallis, Siegel Castello, and Wilcoxon tests were used for statistical analyses (α = .05). At the enamel margins, significant differences were obtained among the groups (p < .05). Significantly higher microleakage scores were detected in Group 5 in comparison with Groups 1, 2, and 3. There were no significant differences between different adhesive strategies at the dentin margins (p > .05). While analyzing enamel and dentin microleakage scores, no statistically significant differences were observed in Groups 4 and 5 (p > .05). The laser application time and the adhesive modes of universal adhesives could affect the microleakage at the enamel margins. Different adhesive modes of universal adhesives combined with laser etching had no influence on the microleakage scores of dentin margins.
Informing models of cancer genetics care in the era of multigene panel testing with patient‐led recommendations
Authors: Underhill‐Blazey Meghan , Blonquist Traci , Chittenden Anu , Pozzar Rachel , Nayak Manan , Lansang Kristina , Hong Fangxin , Garber Judy , Stopfer Jill E.
Published: September 2020

The study describes patient‐reported experiences and recommendations to improve the genetic counseling and multigene panel testing (MGPT) process. A descriptive mixed‐method study with concurrently collected and integrated qualitative and quantitative data was conducted. Eligible participants were English‐speaking adults with a breast or gynecologic cancer diagnosis who had received genetic counseling and testing with a MGPT from one Comprehensive Cancer Center. Satisfaction with the genetic counseling, genetic knowledge using a recently validated scale (KnowGene), the multidimensional impact of cancer risk assessment (MICRA), family communication, and the association with demographic factors were evaluated. To supplement the large quantitative data set, qualitative focus group responses and open‐ended text items were collected. Univariate and multivariable associations between each outcome of interest and personal characteristics were assessed. Qualitative data were content‐analyzed. 603 participants completed the survey (48% response rate) and 10 individuals participated in the focus groups. Participants were mostly Caucasian, educated with a college degree or more, and female with median age 58 (24–91), and 78% of participants had a breast cancer diagnosis. Of all individuals undergoing genetic testing using a MGPT, 13% had a pathogenic variant identified, and 30% had a variant of uncertain significance (VUS). Overall, participants reported satisfaction with the genetic counseling and testing process (mean 36.9 [SD 4.7]). On average, participants had 7 incorrect answers out of 19 on the genetic knowledge scale (mean 12.3 [SD 3.4]). MICRA scores showed overall low levels of distress and uncertainty, as well as positive experiences, with wide variability (median 17 [0–84]). Age, marital status, education level, type of cancer diagnosis, and genetic testing results were significantly associated with outcomes. Most participants communicated genetic testing results to mainly female first‐degree relatives. A wide range of individual preferences affecting overall satisfaction, or suggestions for improvement were shared. As new models of streamlined cancer genetic services are being clinically implemented, approaches should continue to assess and tailor the process based on patients’ informational and emotional needs.
Translating the Principle of Beneficence into Ethical Participatory Development Research Practice
Authors: Brear Michelle R. , Gordon Rebecca
Published: September 2020

Conceptualising and operationalising ethical principles like beneficence (maximise benefits, minimise risks) is complex. We contribute to understanding beneficence by critically analysing data documenting participatory international development research processes in Eswatini and India, informed by capabilities theory. Our results problematise (i) conceptualising beneficence solely in relation to either local or academic norms and (ii) offsetting economic, social and cognitive, or individual, group and societal benefits and/or harms, as either practice risks perpetuating unjust economic and/or epistemological hierarchies. Our results suggest that beneficence will be optimally achieved if it is conceptualised and operationalised considering diverse stakeholder perspectives and social justice theory. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional evaluation of 16 SCHAD missense variants: Only amino acid substitutions causing congenital hyperinsulinism of infancy lead to loss‐of‐function phenotypes in vitro
Authors: Velasco Kelly , St‐Louis Johanna L. , Hovland Henrikke N. , Thompson Nels , Ottesen Åsta , Choi Man Hung , Pedersen Line , Njølstad Pål R. , Arnesen Thomas , Fjeld Karianne , Aukrust Ingvild , Myklebust Line M. , Molven Anders
Published: September 2020

Short‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (SCHAD), encoded by the HADH gene, is a ubiquitously expressed mitochondrial enzyme involved in fatty acid oxidation. This protein also plays a role in insulin secretion as recessive HADH mutations cause congenital hyperinsulinism of infancy (CHI) via loss of an inhibitory interaction with glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). Here, we present a functional evaluation of 16 SCHAD missense variants identified either in CHI patients or by high‐throughput sequencing projects in various populations. To avoid interactions with endogenously produced SCHAD protein, we assessed protein stability, subcellular localization, and GDH interaction in a SCHAD knockout HEK293 cell line constructed by CRISPR‐Cas9 methodology. We also established methods for efficient SCHAD expression and purification in E. coli, and tested enzymatic activity of the variants. Our analyses showed that rare variants of unknown significance identified in populations generally had similar properties as normal SCHAD. However, the CHI‐associated variants p.Gly34Arg, p.Ile184Phe, p.Pro258Leu, and p.Gly303Ser were unstable with low protein levels detectable when expressed in HEK293 cells. Moreover, CHI variants p.Lys136Glu, p.His170Arg, and p.Met188Val presented normal protein levels but displayed clearly impaired enzymatic activity in vitro, and their interaction with GDH appeared reduced. Our results suggest that pathogenic missense variants of SCHAD either make the protein target of a post‐translational quality control system or can impair the function of SCHAD without influencing its steady‐state protein level. We did not find any evidence that rare SCHAD missense variants observed only in the general population and not in CHI patients are functionally affected.