bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental design research in Russian architecture
Authors: Kiyanenko Konstantin
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The topics “environment,” “environmental design” and “environment and behavior studies” are important and promising in architectural discourse. The academic culture of the global west plays a unique role in the development of the knowledge within the field of environmental design research (EDR), from which these concepts originate. This paper examines the western names, works and ideas related to EDR that have spread into Russian architectural discourse. The purpose of this paper is to consider the status quo of Russian knowledge of EDR and its connection with the western EDR tradition.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of research in this paper is the analysis of references and keywords of architectural publications from the largest Russian academic online library – e-library.ru.

Findings

The origin, evolution and current state of environmental architectural knowledge in Russia are discussed. Its segmentation including the presence of several self-organized spheres within the EDR domain and the variety of “dialects” of environmental language are illustrated. The connections of each segment of Russian knowledge with western authors and sources are traced. Further, conclusions are drawn regarding the similarities and differences between Russian and western knowledge in the field of EDR.

Originality/value

The relationship of Russian architectural theory with western EDR knowledge has not previously been the subject of a comparative scientometric study.
User preferences for communication channels on energy conservation
Authors: Sheau-Ting Low , Mohd Basri Baharan Mastura , Weng-Wai Choong , Siaw-Chui Wee
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the preferred communication channels to foster energy conservation behaviour among office building users. Energy demand from the commercial sector in Malaysia is, at 33.2 per cent, the highest after the industry sector, at 45.1 per cent. The country’s progress in actively practising energy conservation is lacking, despite various energy conservation programmes having been launched in recent years. A large amount of energy is wasted by users’ poor energy conservation behaviour. To market voluntary energy conservation behaviour, the delivery of energy conservation messages using the appropriate communication channels remains an important strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper involves two-stage data collection. The communication categories associated with a set of channels identified from expert interview serve as the basis for the second stage of empirical data gathering using conjoint analysis. A choice-based conjoint analysis assisted by Sawtooth Software is used to analyse the 525 usable empirical data gathered from a final questionnaire survey among the office building users in Malaysia.

Findings

This paper has identified five communication categories associated with a total of 19 channels. The mass media is acknowledged as the most preferred communication channel among office building users in the marketing of energy conservation behaviour, while the least preferred channel to communicate energy conservation information is audio-visual media.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing literature with a novel case in Malaysia office building by identifying the preferred combination of communication channels in fostering energy conservation behaviour. The findings could benefit the building managers in marketing energy conservation behaviour among office building users to effectively achieve the desired change for sustainable development.
Grapes grow better in the backyard
Authors: La Porta Valentina , Migheli Matteo
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effects of innovation on the profitability of large wineries. In particular, organic growth is evaluated versus external growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from balance sheets over more than a decade are used. The analysis is limited to large Italian wineries to include firms that constantly invest in R&D in the sample. The analysis focuses on 25 Italian wineries observed over eight years. Panel data estimation is used to analyse these data.

Findings

The paper shows that investments in R&D increase the profitability of innovative wineries in the long run but decrease it in the short run. Moreover, because of financial constraints, some wineries may invest too few resources in R&D.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation is that the focus is restricted to large wine producers, while many small producers that do not generally invest in R&D exist in the market. The practical implication is that governments should support R&D investments of wineries.

Originality/value

The main contributions are to show empirically the effects of investing in R&D on the profitability of large wineries and to highlight the possible presence of severe financial constraints, which require policy interventions.
Towards a framework for understanding ethnic consumers’ acculturation strategies in a multicultural environment
Authors: Dey Bidit Lal , Alwi Sharifah , Yamoah Fred , Agyepong Stephanie Agyepongmaa , Kizgin Hatice , Sarma Meera
Published: June 2019

Purpose

While it is essential to further research the growing diversity in western metropolitan cities, little is currently known about how the members of various ethnic communities acculturate to multicultural societies. The purpose of this paper is to explore immigrants’ cosmopolitanism and acculturation strategies through an analysis of the food consumption behaviour of ethnic consumers in multicultural London.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was set within the socio-cultural context of London. A number of qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews, observation and photographs were used to assess consumers’ acculturation strategies in a multicultural environment and how that is influenced by consumer cosmopolitanism.

Findings

Ethnic consumers’ food consumption behaviour reflects their acculturation strategies, which can be classified into four groups: rebellion, rarefaction, resonance and refrainment. This classification demonstrates ethnic consumers’ multi-directional acculturation strategies, which are also determined by their level of cosmopolitanism.

Research limitations/implications

The taxonomy presented in this paper advances current acculturation scholarship by suggesting a multi-directional model for acculturation strategies as opposed to the existing uni-directional and bi-directional perspectives and explicates the role of consumer cosmopolitanism in consumer acculturation. The paper did not engage host communities and there is hence a need for future research on how and to what extent host communities are acculturated to the multicultural environment.

Practical implications

The findings have direct implications for the choice of standardisation vs adaptation as a marketing strategy within multicultural cities. Whilst the rebellion group are more likely to respond to standardisation, increasing adaptation of goods and service can ideally target members of the resistance and resonance groups and more fusion products should be exclusively earmarked for the resonance group.

Originality/value

The paper makes original contribution by introducing a multi-directional perspective to acculturation by delineating four-group taxonomy (rebellion, rarefaction, resonance and refrainment). This paper also presents a dynamic model that captures how consumer cosmopolitanism impinges upon the process and outcome of multi-directional acculturation strategies.
Advancing global consumer culture research
Authors: Magnusson Peter , Westjohn Stanford A.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper provides a perspective to the article by Cleveland and Bartsch in this issue. The purpose of this paper is to focus on examining objective global brand performance data in four industries and discuss the practicality of global vs country-level marketing strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on data from Euromonitor, the analysis evaluates global brand performance in four industries over the last decade.

Findings

In most industries, global brands are less dominant than what is often assumed.

Originality/value

This commentary aims to bring a new perspective to the global consumer culture discussion and may spur valuable future research on the topic.
Academic entrepreneurship: phase-specific constraints and needs
Authors: Müller-Wieland Roda , Muschner Antonia , Schraudner Martina
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Academic entrepreneurship is extremely relevant in knowledge and technology transfer (KTT). The purpose of this study is to provide insights into phase-specific constraints and needs impacting scientists’ engagement in entrepreneurial activities at public research institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

In an exploratory case study, 40 qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with German academic entrepreneurs in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Findings

Based on the data analysis, an ideal-typical founding process with phase-specific barriers and needs was identified. Many constraints and associated needs occur in more than one phase, including the lack of knowledge, the demand for exchange formats, the lack of time and financial resources, institutionalized return options, the lack of human resources and the lack of incentives.

Research limitations/implications

Given its exploratory approach, this study has limitations regarding its generalization; however, the presented findings may induce further research and in-depth analysis on this matter.

Practical implications

Several recommendations for action are provided for each phase of the founding process to strengthen the (entrepreneurial) transfer in research organizations. Generally, a pioneering indicator of excellence in the science system should be developed to promote transfer next to publications.

Originality/value

The study contributes to existing literature on determinants of academic entrepreneurship by indicating the phase-specific constraints and needs throughout the founding process and discussing those needs in the theoretical context of current societal and technological mega-trends.
Designing memorable guest experiences
Authors: Buehring Joern , O’Mahony Barry
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Managing the customer experience is critical for hospitality businesses because business viability can depend on the delivery of valued guest experiences. The industry lacks research that can assist in developing the specific measures and tools to design experiences that meet guests’ expectations. The purpose of this paper is to identify the constructs and generators of memorable experiences (ME) from the perspectives of luxury hotel hosts and guests.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected in two sequential phases. In the first phase, non-probability sampling was used to engage luxury hotel experts in a Delphi study. This was followed by in-depth, face-to-face interviews with frequently staying luxury hotel guests.

Findings

In total, 40 value generating factors emerged from the host data. These were validated with guests; however, guests also revealed a further 19 value generating factors that develop ME. These factors were clustered into five constructs and formulated into a ME framework that presents the constructs and supporting variables that can facilitate memorable luxury hotel experiences.

Research limitations/implications

Guests were asked to recall previous luxury hotel experiences and it is acknowledged that recall of past experiences can be inaccurate. The sample size was also relatively small.

Practical implications

Critical, value generating factors were identified that hotel operators can employ to actively engage luxury hotel guests and ensure their experiences are memorable.

Originality/value

The study extends our understanding of the constructs and variables that contribute to the development of ME identifying the importance of sensory generators and the role of authenticity and destination specific culture in creating unique, ME. These key drivers can be used to increase guest satisfaction, loyalty and repeat visitation.
Scaffolding a collaborative process through concept mapping: a case study on faculty development
Authors: Aguiar Joana G. , Thumser Alfred E. , Bailey Sarah G. , Trinder Sarah L. , Bailey Ian , Evans Danielle L. , Kinchin Ian M.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Concept maps have been described as a valuable tool for exploring curriculum knowledge. However, less attention has been given to the use of them to visualise contested and tacit knowledge, i.e. the values and perceptions of teachers that underpin their practice. This paper aims to explore the use of concept mapping to uncover academics’ views and help them articulate their perspectives within the framework provided by the concepts of pedagogic frailty and resilience in a collaborative environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were a group of five colleagues within a Biochemical Science Department, working on the development of a new undergraduate curriculum. A qualitative single-case study was conducted to get some insights on how concept mapping might scaffold each step of the collaborative process. They answered the online questionnaire; their answers were “translated” into an initial expert-constructed concept map, which was offered as a starting point to articulate their views during a group session, resulting in a consensus map.

Findings

Engaging with the questionnaire was useful for providing the participants with an example of an “excellent” map, sensitising them to the core concepts and the possible links between them, without imposing a high level of cognitive load. This fostered dialogue of complex ideas, introducing the potential benefits of consensus maps in team-based projects.

Originality/value

An online questionnaire may facilitate the application of the pedagogic frailty model for academic development by scaling up the mapping process. The map-mediated facilitation of dialogue within teams of academics may facilitate faculty development by making explicit the underpinning values held by team members.
Bibliometric analysis of scientific production on sharing economy
Authors: Lima Sérgio , Carlos Filho Francisco de Assis
Published: June 2019

Purpose

In recent years, much has been discussed about new consumer practices based on the sharing economy. In this context, the purpose of this paper is to map out the international scientific production on sharing economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted a descriptive qualitative approach. Based on a sample of 95 documents collected in the Scopus database, analyses of bibliometric and sociometric indicators were carried out, as well as content analyses were conducted to identify the main thematic categories in the field.

Findings

The results show that sharing economy is an emerging topic, and of late, the research in this field has grown rapidly. The study provides a mapping of top journals and authors, works of greatest impact and of co-authorship, co-citation and bibliographic coupling networks, which evidence the low intensity of researcher’s interactions and scientific production dispersion in the field. The main subjects found in the sharing economy literature are determinants, motivations and barriers, sharing economy impacts, regulation, models and frameworks, critical approach and entrepreneurship and sharing-based new businesses.

Research limitations/implications

The analyses did not take into account the timing perspective. Further research could undertake a timeline-based approach in order to present direct citation networks and to relate works according to the year when they were published.

Originality/value

The study innovates by identifying the main subjects in the sharing economy literature, as well as by presenting network analysis for some bibliometric indicators, complementing previous research in the field.
Juxtaposed membranes underpin cellular adhesion and display unilateral cell division of multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes
Authors: Qian Xin‐Xin , Santini Claire‐Lise , Kosta Artemis , Menguy Nicolas , Le Guenno Hugo , Zhang Wenyan , Li Jinhua , Chen Yi‐Ran , Liu Jia , Alberto François , Espinosa Leon , Xiao Tian , Wu Long‐Fei
Published: June 2019

Multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs) exhibit peculiar coordination of swimming along geomagnetic field lines. Approximately 40–80 cells assemble, with a helical geometry or axisymmetry, into spherical or ellipsoidal MMPs respectively. To contribute to a comprehensive understanding of bacterial multicellularity here we took multiple microscopic approaches to study the diversity, assembly, reproduction and motility of ellipsoidal MMPs. Using correlative fluorescence in situ hybridization and scanning electron microscopy analysis, we found an unexpected diversity in populations of ellipsoidal MMPs in the Mediterranean Sea. The high‐pressure freezing/freeze substitution fixation technique allowed us to show, for the first time, that cells adhere via juxtaposed membranes and are held together by a rimming lattice. Fluorescence confocal microscopy and ultrathin section images revealed not only the one‐layer hollow three‐dimensional architecture, but also periphery–core unilateral constriction of constituent cells and unidirectional binary fission of the ellipsoidal MMPs. This finding suggests the evolution toward MMPs multicellularity via the mechanism of incomplete separation of offspring. Remarkably, thousands of flagellar at the periphery surface of cells underpin the coordinated swimming of MMPs in response to mechanical, chemical, magnetic and optical stimuli, including a magnetotactic photokinesis behaviour. Together these results unveil the unique structure and function property of ellipsoidal MMPs.
Reassembling Lesseps Square, Rethinking Barcelona: A More‐than‐Human Approach
Authors: Estévez Brais
Published: June 2019

This article discusses the great paradox of the planning of public spaces in Barcelona. While for years the city's residents, politicians and experts have been steeped in democratizing, participatory discourses, the interminable controversies almost all the council's initiatives in the streets and squares of Barcelona have aroused are evidence of a clear short‐circuit. Somehow this participatory‐democratic consensus has run up against a collective discord which, in my view, indicates the incapacity of the current channels and mechanisms of citizen participation to truly give shape to a more democratic city, one which does not block dissent or stand in the way of the possible. I discuss this short‐circuit through a case study, the Lesseps Square controversy, including a methodological and epistemological debate which, in order to study how the square was reassembled in practice after the participatory remodeling process, puts forward an actor‐network‐theory‐inspired approach to the study of public space. I argue that Barcelona, a city whose public institutions are deeply committed to creating channels for residents to participate in public processes, is at the same time enacting a closure of its public spaces. My contention here is that the urban environment is already distributed (in Rancière's sense) before it is given over to participation, and that this prevents the emergence of a (more‐than‐human)demosthat could redistribute public space by taking account of innumerable unrepresented parties.
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange in Tehran Between 2011 and 2014
Authors: Chegini Azita , Moghadami Mehran , Maghary Amir H.
Published: June 2019

The goal of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is to remove autoantibodies, pathogenic molecules, immune complexes, toxins, high concentration lipoproteins, and pathological proteins. We aimed to present the most common indication of TPE and rate of admission to the intensive care unit. From 2011 to 2014, our retrospective study was conducted including 1069 inpatients from the Tehran Blood Transfusion Center, which was responsible for performing therapeutic apheresis in all 122 hospitals of Tehran. The patients, based on their TPE indication, were classified into five groups: hematological and oncological, neurological, renal, rheumatological diseases, and all the remaining diseases. We performed 6329 procedures of TPE on 1069 inpatients. Of the patients, 479 (44.8%) were male and 590 (55.2%) female. Their age varied from a minimum of 2 years to the maximum of 93 years. Overall, the mean of TPE sessions for each patient was 5.92 ± 3.9; 415 (38.8%) patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). ASFA categories I/II indications were considered an appropriate request for TPE, and 82.97% (887) of all TPE were suitable. The most frequent categories of TPE indications are as follows: neurological, hematological, and renal diseases. Class I/II indications in the neurological diseases, myasthenia gravis (21.7%), Guillain‐Barré disease (21%), and multiple sclerosis (13.3%), were the most prevalent. In the hematological category, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) (14.1%) was observed to be greater than the other indications. We observed that the most prevalent illnesses are neurological (myasthenia gravis), hematological (TTP), and renal.
The application of CRISPR‐Cas for single species identification from environmental DNA
Authors: Williams Molly‐Ann , O'Grady Joyce , Ball Bernard , Carlsson Jens , de Eyto Elvira , McGinnity Philip , Jennings Eleanor , Regan Fiona , Parle‐McDermott Anne
Published: June 2019

We report the first application of CRISPR‐Cas technology to single species detection from environmental DNA (eDNA). Organisms shed and excrete DNA into their environment such as in skin cells and faeces, referred to as environmental DNA (eDNA). Utilising eDNA allows noninvasive monitoring with increased specificity and sensitivity. Current methods primarily employ PCR‐based techniques to detect a given species from eDNA samples, posing a logistical challenge for on‐site monitoring and potential adaptation to biosensor devices. We have developed an alternative method; coupling isothermal amplification to a CRISPR‐Cas12a detection system. This utilises the collateral cleavage activity of Cas12a, a ribonuclease guided by a highly specific single CRISPR RNA. We used the target species Salmo salar as a proof‐of‐concept test of the specificity of the assay among closely related species and to show the assay is successful at a single temperature of 37°C with signal detection at 535 nM. The specific assay, detects at attomolar sensitivity with rapid detection rates (<2.5 hr). This approach simplifies the challenge of building a biosensor device for rapid target species detection in the field and can be easily adapted to detect any species from eDNA samples from a variety of sources enhancing the capabilities of eDNA as a tool for monitoring biodiversity.
erefinder: Genome‐wide detection of oestrogen response elements
Authors: Anderson Andrew P. , Jones Adam G.
Published: June 2019

Oestrogen response elements (EREs) are specific DNA sequences to which ligand‐bound oestrogen receptors (ERs) physically bind, allowing them to act as transcription factors for target genes. Locating EREs and ER responsive regions is therefore a potentially important component of the study of oestrogen‐regulated pathways. Here, we report the development of a novel software tool, erefinder, which conducts a genome‐wide, sliding‐window analysis of oestrogen receptor binding affinity. We demonstrate the effects of adjusting window size and highlight the program's general agreement with ChIP studies. We further provide two examples of how erefinder can be used for comparative approaches. erefinder can handle large input files, has settings to allow for broad and narrow searches, and provides the full output to allow for greater data manipulation. These features facilitate a wide range of hypothesis testing for researchers and make erefinder an excellent tool to aid in oestrogen‐related research.
widgetcon: A website and program for quick conversion among common population genetic data formats
Authors: Aydın Mahmut , Kryvoruchko Igor S. , Şakiroğlu Muhammet
Published: June 2019

One of the most tedious steps in genetic data analyses is the reformatting data generated with one program for use with other applications. This conversion is necessary because comprehensive evaluation of the data may be based on different algorithms included in diverse software, each requiring a distinct input format. A platform‐independent and freely available program or a web‐based tool dedicated to such reformatting can save time and efforts in data processing. Here, we report widgetcon, a website and a program which has been developed to quickly and easily convert among various molecular data formats commonly used in phylogenetic analysis, population genetics, and other fields. The web‐based service is available at https://www.widgetcon.net. The program and the website convert the major data formats in four basic steps in less than a minute. The resource will be a useful tool for the research community and can be updated to include more formats and features in the future.
Overview of in vivo and ex vivo endpoints in murine food allergy models: Suitable for evaluation of the sensitizing capacity of novel proteins?
Authors: Castan Laure , Bøgh Katrine L. , Maryniak Natalia Z. , Epstein Michelle M. , Kazemi Sahar , O'Mahony Liam , Bodinier Marie , Smit Joost J. , van Bilsen Jolanda H. M. , Blanchard Carine , Głogowski Robert , Kozáková Hana , Schwarzer Martin , Noti Mario , de Wit Nicole , Bouchaud Grégory , Bastiaan‐Net Shanna
Published: June 2019

Significant efforts are necessary to introduce new dietary protein sources to feed a growing world population while maintaining food supply chain sustainability. Such a sustainable protein transition includes the use of highly modified proteins from side streams or the introduction of new protein sources that may lead to increased clinically relevant allergic sensitization. With food allergy being a major health problem of increasing concern, understanding the potential allergenicity of new or modified proteins is crucial to ensure public health protection. The best predictive risk assessment methods currently relied on are in vivo models, making the choice of endpoint parameters a key element in evaluating the sensitizing capacity of novel proteins. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the most frequently used in vivo and ex vivo endpoints in murine food allergy models, addressing their strengths and limitations for assessing sensitization risks. For optimal laboratory‐to‐laboratory reproducibility and reliable use of predictive tests for protein risk assessment, it is important that researchers maintain and apply the same relevant parameters and procedures. Thus, there is an urgent need for a consensus on key food allergy parameters to be applied in future food allergy research in synergy between both knowledge institutes and clinicians.
Adult vascular dysfunction in foetal growth‐restricted guinea‐pigs is associated with a neonate‐adult switching in Nos3 DNA methylation
Authors: Krause Bernardo J. , Peñaloza Estefanía , Candia Alejandro , Cañas Daniel , Hernández Cherie , Arenas German A. , Peralta‐Scholz María José , Valenzuela Rodrigo , García‐Herrera Claudio , Herrera Emilio A.
Published: June 2019

Aim

Foetal growth restriction (FGR) is associated with endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular diseases in adult subjects. Early vascular remodelling and epigenetic changes occurring on key endothelial genes might precede this altered vascular function. Further, it has been proposed that oxidative stress during development may determine some of these epigenetic modifications. To address this issue, we studied the in vivo and ex vivo vascular function and Nos3 promoter DNA methylation in arteries from eight‐month‐old guinea‐pig born from control, FGR‐treated and FGR‐NAC‐treated pregnancies.

Methods

Femoral and carotid arteries in vivo vascular function were determined by Doppler, whilst ex vivo vascular function and biomechanical properties were assessed by wire myography. Levels of eNOS mRNA and site‐specific DNA methylation in Nos3 promoter in aorta endothelial cells (AEC) were determined by qPCR and pyrosequencing respectively.

Results

FGR adult showed an increased femoral vascular resistance (P < .05), stiffness (P < .05) and arterial remodelling (P < .01), along with an impaired NO‐mediated relaxation (P < .001). These effects were prevented by maternal treatment with NAC. Endothelial‐NOS mRNA levels were decreased in FGR adult compared with control and FGR‐NAC (P < .05), associated with increased DNA methylation levels (P < .01). Comparison of Nos3 DNA methylation in AEC showed a differential methylation pattern between foetal and adult guinea‐pigs (P < .05).

Conclusion

Altogether, these data suggest that adult vascular dysfunction in the FGR does not result from early changes in Nos3 promoter DNA methylation, but from an altered vessel structure established during foetal development.
The geography of Australia's Marriage Law Postal Survey outcome
Authors: Wilson Tom , Shalley Fiona , Perales Francisco
Published: June 2019

After years of public debate about same‐sex marriage, the Australian Government put the issue to the electorate in the “Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey” in late 2017. The survey asked voters whether the law should be changed to allow same‐sex couples to marry. Nationally, 61.6% of voters responded “Yes.” But there were marked variations by electoral division, with the proportion of “Yes” votes varying from 26.1% to 83.7%. The aim of this paper is to explore the geographical pattern of the percentage of voters responding “Yes” by federal electoral division and identify its correlates. Results of the survey by federal electoral division were obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS); other variables for electoral divisions were obtained from the ABS and the Australian Electoral Commission. Multiple linear regression and geographically weighted regression were employed to establish the relationship between the percentage of “Yes” responses at the electoral division level and the characteristics of electoral divisions’ populations. In 133 of 150 electoral divisions there was a majority of “Yes” responses. Strong predictor variables of the percentage “Yes” vote included the proportions of: the population describing themselves as having no religion, those with post‐school educational qualifications, those with a birthplace in Oceania, Europe, or the Americas, and those who did not vote for conservative parties in the 2016 federal election. A marginally better fit was obtained with geographically weighted regression. In conclusion, the geographical pattern of responses in the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey is closely associated with a small number of characteristics of an electoral division's population.
Emerging roles of striatal dopamine D2 receptors in motivated behaviour: Implications for psychiatric disorders
Authors: Olivetti Pedro R. , Balsam Peter D. , Simpson Eleanor H. , Kellendonk Christoph
Published: June 2019

Impaired motivation has been a long recognized negative symptom of schizophrenia, as well as a common feature of non‐psychotic psychiatric disorders, responsible for a significant share of functional burden, and with limited treatment options. The striatum and dopamine signalling system play a central role in extracting motivationally relevant information from the environment, selecting which behavioural direction the animal should follow, and the vigour with which to engage it. Much of this function relies on striatal projection neurons, known as medium spiny neurons (MSNs) expressing dopamine D2 receptors (D2Rs), or D2‐MSNs. However, determining the precise nature of D2‐MSNs in regulating motivated behaviour in both healthy individuals and experimental manipulations of D2‐MSN function has at times yielded a somewhat confusing picture since their activity has been linked to either enhancement or dampening of motivation in animal models. In this MiniReview, we describe the latest data from rodent studies that investigated how D2Rs exert their modulatory effect on motivated behaviour by regulating striatal indirect pathway neuronal activity. We will include a discussion about how functional selectivity of D2Rs towards G protein–dependent or β‐arrestin–dependent signalling differentially affects motivated behaviour. Lastly, we will describe a recent preclinical attempt to improve motivation by exploiting serotonin receptor–mediated modulation of dopamine transmission in the striatum.
Tweeting and Retweeting for Fight for $15: Unions as Dinosaur Opinion Leaders?
Authors: Frangi Lorenzo , Zhang Tingting , Hebdon Robert
Published: June 2019

Advocacy campaigns are central to unions’ efforts to impact labour rights beyond unionized workplaces. Social media and on‐the‐ground campaign dynamics are intimately related. Thus, if unions can become leaders on social media, they could have more impact on campaign framing and mobilizing. Drawing on primary data and applying a sequential mixed method, we analyse unions’ ability to emerge as opinion leaders in Twitter dialogues on the Fight for $15 (FF$15) campaign. We track FF$15‐related activities of Twitter profiles over seven months and compare union actions to those of others along three dimensions: level of activity, prevalence of tweeting versus retweeting and endorsement within FF$15 community and in the Twitter universe. Regression results show unions prefer advancing their own ideas over supporting those of others, and their messages are more endorsed than others’ messages in the Twitter universe. In‐depth interviews and a focus group reveal that while their actions are slow and conservative, unions can count on internal support and institutional reputation to gain leadership. The article concludes by noting the implications of the findings for unions’ strategies to become opinion leaders on social media.
The response of five intestinal cell lines to anoxic conditions in vitro
Authors: Vissenaekens Hanne , Grootaert Charlotte , Rajkovic Andreja , Van De Wiele Tom , Calatayud Marta
Published: June 2019

Background information

In vivo oxygen levels in tissues range from 1% to 15%, while mechanistic cell culture studies employ an atmospheric oxygen level of 21% to grow cells. These oxygen concentrations are therefore not representative for conditions where the cell response is dependent on oxygen partial pressure. In pathological situation, such as (colon) cancer or chronic inflammation, tissue oxygenation is severely affected, and even under physiological conditions a steep oxygen gradient is present in the large intestine, where epithelial cells co‐exist with microbial species, resulting in almost anoxia at the midpoint of the lumen. In these situations, a better characterisation of the essential cellular behaviour under hypoxia or anoxia is required.

Results

We have characterised the cellular response of commonly used cell cultures for the study of intestinal epithelial processes and colon cancer development (Caco‐2, HT‐29, SW480, HCT 116 and LoVo) under conventional normoxic conditions (21% O2) and in an anoxic (<0.1% O2) environment generated in an anaerobic chamber. In general, anoxic conditions led to lower levels of oxidative stress, a reduction in reduced glutathione/oxidised glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio, the shift of the redox status to oxidised glutathione levels, reduced cell proliferation, decreased barrier function and higher glycolysis rates at the expense of oxidative respiration.

Conclusions

Continuous exposure to anoxic conditions, such as occurring at the host–microbe interface in the intestine, may create an adaptive metabolic cellular response of the cells.

Significance

Considering adequate oxygen levels is essential for creating more physiologically relevant models for the study of host–microbe interactions and colon cancer development.
Significant epitranscriptomes in heterogeneous cancer
Authors: Konno Masamitsu , Taniguchi Masateru , Ishii Hideshi
Published: June 2019

Precision medicine places significant emphasis on techniques for the identification of DNA mutations and gene expression by deep sequencing of gene panels to obtain medical data. However, other diverse information that is not easily readable using bioinformatics, including RNA modifications, has emerged as a novel diagnostic and innovative therapy owing to its multifunctional aspects. It is suggested that this breakthrough innovation might open new avenues for the elucidation of uncharacterized cancer cellular functions to develop more precise medical applications. The functional characteristics and regulatory mechanisms of RNA modifications, ie, the epitranscriptome (ETR), which reflects RNA metabolism, remains unclear, mainly due to detection methods being limited. Recent studies have revealed that N6‐methyl adenosine, the most common modification in mRNA in eukaryotes, is affected in various types of cancer and, in some cases, cancer stem cells, but also affects cellular responses to viral infections. The ETR can control cancer cell fate through mRNA splicing, stability, nuclear export, and translation. Here we report on the recent progress of ETR detection methods, and biological findings regarding the significance of ETR in cancer precision medicine.
Adding sorbitan sesquioleate to the European baseline series: Necessary, reasonable, or unavoidable?
Authors: de Groot Anton , Gilissen Liesbeth , Geier Johannes , Orton David , Goossens An
Published: June 2019

Positive reactions to fragrance mix I (FM I) are frequent in consecutively patch tested patients suspected of having allergic contact dermatitis. However, the FM I test preparations contain 5% of the emulsifier sorbitan sesquioleate (SSO), and it is well known that SSO can cause contact allergic reactions in its own right. Indeed, the available data show that some patients with contact allergy to SSO react to FM I but are not allergic to fragrances. When SSO is not tested, this situation may go unnoticed, a wrong diagnosis of fragrance allergy may be given to the patient, and unjustified advice to avoid fragrances and fragranced products will be given in such cases. To avoid such suboptimal patient care, we postulate that testing with SSO in all patch tested individuals is mandatory. As it is well known that only a minority of FM I‐reactive patients will undergo a breakdown test with the ingredients and SSO, testing with SSO in all patients can only be achieved by adding it to the European baseline series. Not testing with SSO may also result in misinterpretation of patch test reactions to Myroxylon pereirae resin and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate in the baseline series, as both (may) contain SSO, and, for the same reason, of reactions to several other hapten test materials.
Amlodipine and calcineurin inhibitor‐induced nephrotoxicity following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Jensen Ryan R. , Healy Regan M. , Ford Clyde D. , Child Berrie , Majers Jacob , Draper Brent , Hasan Yousef , Hoda Daanish
Published: June 2019

Studies in the renal transplant population have suggested calcium‐channel blockers (CCBs) may protect against calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)‐induced nephrotoxicity. However, this has not been evaluated in the hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) population. This retrospective study reviews data from 350 consecutive patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT to determine whether amlodipine improved renal outcomes. Subject data included up to one year from CNI initiation. Patients in the amlodipine group (n = 130) received an average of 143 days treatment with amlodipine and experienced a smaller decrease in creatinine clearance (CrCl) through day 180. At day 30, change in CrCl was −17.4 mL/min in the amlodipine cohort and −33.8 mL/min in the control (P < 0.001). At day 180, change in CrCl was −40.9 and −50.6 mL/min, respectively (P = 0.005). Incidence of hospitalization with acute kidney injury (AKI) was significantly lower in patients receiving amlodipine, 7.7% (10/132) vs 16.4% (36/220) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.22‐0.89). Median blood pressure in the amlodipine group remained <132/78 through day 360. Our data support the use of amlodipine for hypertension in the allogeneic HSCT population and provide evidence suggesting that CCBs protect against CNI‐induced nephrotoxicity.
Evaluation and diagnosis of the traumatized dentition
Authors: Myers Garry L.
Published: June 2019

Traumatic dental injuries comprise a number of the dental emergency patients who are often seen after hours or on an unscheduled basis in a dental practice environment. Although there are a variety of traumatic dental injuries that can occur, each with their own recommended treatment protocols, the initial evaluation and diagnosis of the traumatized dentition make up a critical aspect of the management of these cases. This article will highlight the key components of a thorough and efficient examination process of the traumatized dentition to include (a) documenting an accurate history of the events causing the injury, (b) performing a systematic clinical examination to include the use of clinical photographs and pulp sensibility tests, (c) obtaining appropriate radiographic images and scans, (d) understanding some considerations unique to evaluating young patients with traumatic injuries, and (e) recognizing the importance of having accurate and thorough documentation of these types of cases. Once the evaluation and diagnosis phase has been completed, the necessary treatment protocols can be initiated in an appropriate manner.
Implementation of an NGS‐based sequencing and gene fusion panel for clinical screening of patients with suspected hematologic malignancies
Authors: Levy Michael A. , Santos Stephanie , Kerkhof Jennifer , Stuart Alan , Aref‐Eshghi Erfan , Guo Fen , Hedley Ben , Wong Henry , Rauh Michael , Feilotter Harriet , Berardi Philip , Semenuk Laura , Yang Ping , Knoll Joan , Ainsworth Peter , McLachlin Catherine Meg , Chin‐Yee Ian , Kovacs Michael , Deotare Uday , Lazo‐Langner Alejandro , Hsia Cyrus , Keeney Mike , Xenocostas Anargyros , Howlett Christopher , Lin Hanxin , Sadikovic Bekim
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The diagnosis of hematologic malignancies integrates multiple diagnostic and clinical disciplines. Historically, targeted (single‐analyte) genetic testing has been used as reflex to initial prescreening by other diagnostic modalities including flow cytometry, anatomic pathology, and clinical cytogenetics. Given the wide range of mutations associated with hematologic malignancies a DNA/RNA‐based NGS panel can provide a more effective and economical approach to comprehensive testing of patients as an initial, tier‐1 screen.

Methods

Using a cohort of 380 patients, we performed clinical validation of a gene panel designed to assess 40 genes (DNA), and 29 fusion driver genes with over 600 gene fusion partners (RNA), including sample exchange data across three clinical laboratories, and correlation with cytogenetic testing results.

Results

The clinical validation of this technology demonstrated that its accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity are comparable to the majority of targeted single‐gene approaches, while assessment of the initial patient cohort data demonstrated a high diagnostic yield of 50.5%.

Conclusions

Implementation of a tier‐1 NGS‐based protocol for gene panel screening provides a comprehensive alternative to targeted molecular testing in patients with suspected hematologic malignancies, with increased diagnostic yield, scalability, reproducibility, and cost effectiveness, making it ideally suited for implementation in clinical laboratories.
Characterization of P. falciparum dipeptidyl aminopeptidase 3 specificity identifies differences in amino acid preferences between peptide‐based substrates and covalent inhibitors
Authors: de Vries Laura E. , Sanchez Mateo I. , Groborz Katarzyna , Kuppens Laurie , Poreba Marcin , Lehmann Christine , Nevins Neysa , Withers‐Martinez Chrislaine , Hirst David J. , Yuan Fang , Arastu‐Kapur Shirin , Horn Martin , Mares Michael , Bogyo Matthew , Drag Marcin , Deu Edgar
Published: June 2019

Malarial dipeptidyl aminopeptidases (DPAPs) are cysteine proteases important for parasite development thus making them attractive drug targets. In order to develop inhibitors specific to the parasite enzymes, it is necessary to map the determinants of substrate specificity of the parasite enzymes and its mammalian homologue cathepsin C (CatC). Here, we screened peptide‐based libraries of substrates and covalent inhibitors to characterize the differences in specificity between parasite DPAPs and CatC, and used this information to develop highly selective DPAP1 and DPAP3 inhibitors. Interestingly, while the primary amino acid specificity of a protease is often used to develop potent inhibitors, we show that equally potent and highly specific inhibitors can be developed based on the sequences of nonoptimal peptide substrates. Finally, our homology modelling and docking studies provide potential structural explanations of the differences in specificity between DPAP1, DPAP3, and CatC, and between substrates and inhibitors in the case of DPAP3. Overall, this study illustrates that focusing the development of protease inhibitors solely on substrate specificity might overlook important structural features that can be exploited to develop highly potent and selective compounds.
Semi‐rational evolution of the 3‐(3‐hydroxyalkanoyloxy)alkanoate (HAA) synthase RhlA to improve rhamnolipid production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Burkholderia glumae
Authors: Dulcey Carlos Eduardo , López de los Santos Yossef , Létourneau Myriam , Déziel Eric , Doucet Nicolas
Published: June 2019

The 3‐(3‐hydroxyalkanoyloxy)alkanoate (HAA) synthase RhlA is an essential enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of HAAs in Pseudomonas and Burkholderia species. RhlA modulates the aliphatic chain length in rhamnolipids, conferring distinct physicochemical properties to these biosurfactants exhibiting promising industrial and pharmaceutical value. A detailed molecular understanding of substrate specificity and catalytic performance in RhlA could offer protein engineering tools to develop designer variants involved in the synthesis of novel rhamnolipid mixtures for tailored eco‐friendly products. However, current directed evolution progress remains limited due to the absence of high‐throughput screening methodologies and lack of an experimentally resolved RhlA structure. In the present work, we used comparative modeling and chimeric‐based approaches to perform a comprehensive semi‐rational mutagenesis of RhlA from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Our extensive RhlA mutational variants and chimeric hybrids between the Pseudomonas and Burkholderia homologs illustrate selective modulation of rhamnolipid alkyl chain length in both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Burkholderia glumae. Our results also demonstrate the implication of a putative cap‐domain motif that covers the catalytic site of the enzyme and provides substrate specificity to RhlA. This semi‐rational mutant‐based survey reveals promising ‘hot‐spots’ for the modulation of RL congener patterns and potential control of enzyme activity, in addition to uncovering residue positions that modulate substrate selectivity between the Pseudomonas and Burkholderia functional homologs.

Database

Model data are available in the PMDB database under the accession number PM0081867.