bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the leaf economic spectrum hold within plant functional types? A Bayesian multivariate trait meta-analysis
Authors: Shiklomanov Alexey N. , Cowdery Elizabeth M. , Bahn Michael , Byun Chaeho , Jansen Steven , Kramer Koen , Minden Vanessa , Niinemets Ülo , Onoda Yusuke , Soudzilovskaia Nadejda A. , Dietze Michael C.
Published: November 2018

We investigated whether global leaf economic relationships are also present within plant functional types (PFTs), and the extent to which this hierarchical structure can be used to constrain trait estimates. We developed a hierarchical multivariate Bayesian model that assumes separate means and covariance structures within and across PFTs and fit this model to seven leaf traits from the TRY database related to leaf morphology, biochemistry, and photosynthetic metabolism. Trait correlations were generally consistent in direction within and across PFTs, and consistent with predictions of the leaf economic spectrum. However, correlation strength varied substantially across PFTs indicating that leaf economic relationships within PFTs are often confounded by the unique physiology of certain plant types or environmental conditions in certain biomes. Leveraging covariance in multivariate models reduced uncertainties in mean trait estimates, particularly for undersampled trait-PFT combinations. However, additional constraint from the across-PFT hierarchy was limited.

Data accessibility

The R code and ancillary data for running these analyses is publicly available online via the Open Science Framework athttps://osf.io/w8y73/. The TRY data request used for this analysis has been archived athttp://try-db.org, and can be retrieved by providing the TRY data request ID (#1584). Alternatively, the exact preformatted data used in this analysis are available on request to Alexey Shiklomanov (alexey.shiklomanov@pnnl.gov).
Characterization of the endocrine pancreas in Type 1 Diabetes: islet size is maintained but islet number is markedly reduced
Authors: Seiron Peter , Wiberg Anna , Krogvold Lars , Jahnsen Frode Lars , Dahl-Jørgensen Knut , Skog Oskar , Korsgren Olle
Published: November 2018

Insulin deficiency in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is generally considered a consequence of specific beta-cell loss. Since healthy pancreatic islets consist of ~65% beta cells, this would lead to reduced islet size if the beta cells are not replaced by other cells or tissue. The number of islets per pancreas volume (islet density) would not be affected.

In this study, we compared the islet density, size, and size distribution in subjects with recent-onset or long-standing T1D, with that in matched non-diabetic subjects. Results show that subjects with T1D, regardless of disease duration, had a dramatically reduced islet number per mm2, while the islet size was similar in all groups. Insulin-negative islets in T1D subjects were dominated by glucagon-positive cells that frequently had lost the alpha-cell transcription factor ARX while instead expressing PDX1, normally expressed in beta cells.

Based on our findings, we propose that failure during childhood to establish a sufficient islet number to reach the beta-cell mass needed to cope with episodes of increased insulin demand contributes to T1D susceptibility. Exhaustion induced by relative lack of beta cells could then potentially drive beta-cell dedifferentiation to alpha-cells, explaining the preserved islet size observed in T1D compared to controls.
Predictive coding of action intentions in dorsal and ventral visual stream is based on visual anticipations, memory-based information and motor preparation
Authors: Monaco Simona , Malfatti Giulia , Zendron Alessandro , Pellencin Elisa , Turella Luca
Published: November 2018

Predictions of upcoming movements are based on several types of neural signals that span the visual, somatosensory, motor and cognitive system. Thus far, pre-movement signals have been investigated while participants viewed the object to be acted upon. Here, we studied the contribution of information other than vision to the classification of preparatory signals for action, even in absence of online visual information. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and multivoxel pattern analysis (MVPA) to test whether the neural signals evoked by visual, memory-based and somato-motor information can be reliably used to predict upcoming actions in areas of the dorsal and ventral visual stream during the preparatory phase preceding the action, while participants were lying still. Nineteen human participants (nine women) performed one of two actions towards an object with their eyes open or closed. Despite the well-known role of ventral stream areas in visual recognition tasks and the specialization of dorsal stream areas in somato-motor processes, we decoded action intention in areas of both streams based on visual, memory-based and somato-motor signals. Interestingly, we could reliably decode action intention in absence of visual information based on neural activity evoked when visual information was available, and vice-versa. Our results show a similar visual, memory and somato-motor representation of action planning in dorsal and ventral visual stream areas that allows predicting action intention across domains, regardless of the availability of visual information.
Additive Dose Response Models: Defining Synergy
Authors: Lederer Simone , Dijkstra Tjeerd M.H. , Heskes Tom
Published: November 2018

In synergy studies, one focuses on compound combinations that promise a synergistic or antagonistic effect. With the help of high-throughput techniques, a huge amount of compound combinations can be screened and filtered for suitable candidates for a more detailed analysis. Those promising candidates are chosen based on the deviance between a measured response and an expected non-interactive response. A non-interactive response is based on a principle of no interaction, such as Loewe Additivity [Loewe, 1928] or Bliss Independence [Bliss, 1939]. In Lederer et al. [2018a], an explicit formulation of the hitherto implicitly defined Loewe Additivity has been introduced, the so-called Explicit Mean Equation. In the current study we show that this Explicit Mean Equation outperforms the original implicit formulation of Loewe Additivity and Bliss Independence when measuring synergy in terms of the deviance between measured and expected response. Further, we show that a deviance based computation of synergy outper-forms a parametric approach. We show this on two datasets of compound combinations that are categorized into synergistic, non-interactive and antagonistic [Yadav et al., 2015, Cokol et al., 2011].
A system biology approach reveals cellular pathway differences between follicular thyroid carcinoma and follicular thyroid adenoma
Authors: Hossain Md. Ali , Asa Tania Akter , Rahman Md. Mijanur , Quinn Julian M.W. , Huq Fazlul , Moni Mohammad Ali
Published: November 2018

Pathogenic mechanisms that underlie malignant follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) development are poorly understood. To identify key genes and pathways driving malignant behaviour we employed a system biology-based integrative analyses comparing FTC transcriptomes with a similar but benign lesion, follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA). We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in microarray gene expression datasets (n=52) of FTCs and FTA tissues. Pathway analyses of DEGs using gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) resources revealed significant pathways, and pathway hub genes using protein-protein interactions (PPI). We identified 598 DEGs (relative to FTAs) in FTCs and 12 significant pathways with altered expression in FTC. 10 GO groups were significantly connected with FTC-high expression DEGs and 80 with low-FTC expression. PPI analysis identified 12 potential hub genes based on degree and betweenness centrality. Moreover, 10 transcription factors (TFs) were identified that may underlie DEG expression as well as a number of microRNA (miRNAs). Thus, we identified DEGs, pathways, TFs and miRNAs that reflect molecular mechanisms differing between FTC and benign FTA. These may constitute biomarkers that distinguish these lesions and, given the similarities and common origin of the lesions, they may also be indicators of malignant progression potential.
The influence of rare variants in circulating metabolic biomarkers
Authors: Riveros-Mckay Fernando , Oliver-Williams Clare , Karthikeyan Savita , Walter Klaudia , Kundu Kousik , Ouwehand Willem H , Roberts David , Angelantonio Emanuele Di , Soranzo Nicole , Danesh John , Wheeler Eleanor , Zeggini Eleftheria , Butterworth Adam S , Barroso Inês
Published: November 2018

Circulating metabolite levels are biomarkers for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We tested association between rare sequence variants and 226 serum lipoproteins, lipids and amino acids in 7,142 healthy participants. Gene-based association analyses identified novel gene-trait associations with ACSL1, MYCN, FBXO36 and B4GALNT3 (p<2.5 × 10−6), and confirmed established associations. Regulation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex was associated for the first time, in gene set analyses, with IDL and LDL parameters, as well as circulating cholesterol (pMETASKAT <2.41 × 10−6). Individuals at the lower tails of the distributions of four out of 49 lipoproteins and lipids had an excess of predicted deleterious variants in lipoprotein disorder and metabolism gene sets (ppermutation<0.00037). These four traits were CVD risk factors (e.g. S-VLDL-C), demonstrating that rare “protective” variation is a significant contributor to lipoprotein levels in a healthy population. In conclusion, rare variant analysis of these important metabolic biomarkers reveals novel loci and pathways involved in their regulation.
Repression of an activity-dependent autocrine insulin signal is required for sensory neuron development inC. elegans
Authors: Horowitz Lauren Bayer , Brandt Julia P. , Ringstad Niels
Published: November 2018

Nervous system development is instructed both by genetic programs and activity-dependent refinement of gene expression and connectivity. How these mechanisms are integrated remains poorly understood. Here, we report that the regulated release of insulin-like peptides (ILPs) during development of theC. elegansnervous system accomplishes such an integration. We find that the p38 MAP kinase PMK-3, which is required for the differentiation of chemosensory BAG neurons, functions by limiting expression of an autocrine ILP signal that represses a chemosensory-neuron fate. ILPs are released from BAGs in an activity-dependent manner during embryonic development, and regulate neurodifferentiation through a non-canonical insulin receptor signaling pathway. The differentiation of a specialized neuron-type is, therefore, coordinately regulated by a genetic program that controls ILP expression and by neural activity, which regulates ILP release. Autocrine signals of this kind may have general and conserved functions as integrators of deterministic genetic programs with activity-dependent mechanisms during neurodevelopment.
Modeling grid fields instead of modeling grid cells
Authors: Rosay Sophie , Weber Simon N. , Mulas Marcello
Published: November 2018

A neuron’s firing correlates are defined as the features of the external world to which its activity is correlated. In many parts of the brain, neurons have quite simple such firing correlates. A striking example are grid cells in the rodent medial entorhinal cortex: their activity correlates with the animal’s position in space, defining ‘grid fields’ arranged with a remarkable periodicity. Here, we show that the organization and evolution of grid fields relate very simply to physical space. To do so, we use an effective model and consider grid fields as point objects (particles) moving around in space under the influence of forces. We are able to reproduce most observations on the geometry of grid patterns. This particle-like behavior is particularly salient in a recent experiment where two separate grid patterns merge. We discuss pattern formation in the light of known results from physics of two-dimensional colloidal systems. Finally, we draw the relationship between our ‘macroscopic’ model for grid fields and existing ‘microscopic’ models of grid cell activity and discuss how a description at the level of grid fields allows to put constraints on the underlying grid cell network.
Brain network dynamics during spontaneous strategy shifts and incremental task optimization
Authors: Allegra Michele , Seyed-Allaei Shima , Schuck Nicolas W. , Amati Daniele , Laio Alessandro , Reverberi Carlo
Published: November 2018

With practice, humans may improve their performance in a task by either optimizing a known strategy or discovering a novel, potentially more fruitful strategy. How does the brain support these two fundamental abilities? In the present experiment, subjects performed a simple perceptual decision-making task. They could either use and progressively optimize an instructed strategy based on stimulus position, or spontaneously devise and then use a new strategy based on stimulus color. We investigated how local and long-range BOLD coherence behave during these two types of strategy learning by applying a recently developed unsupervised fMRI analysis technique that was specifically designed to probe the presence of transient correlations. Converging evidence showed that the posterior portion of the default network, i.e. the precuneus and the angular gyrus bilaterally, has a central role in the optimization of the current strategy: these regions encoded the relevant spatial information, increased the level of local coherence and the strength of connectivity with other relevant regions in the brain (e.g. visual cortex, dorsal attention network). This increase was proportional to the task optimization achieved by subjects, as measured by the reduction of reaction times, and was transiently disrupted when subjects were forced to change strategy. By contrast, the anterior portion of the default network (i.e. medial prefrontal cortex) together with rostral portion of the fronto-parietal network showed an increase in local coherence and connectivity only in subjects that would at some point spontaneously choose the new strategy. Overall, our findings shed light on the dynamic interactions between regions related with attention and with cognitive control, underlying the balance between strategy exploration and exploitation. Results suggest that the default network, far from being “shut-down” during task performance, has a pivotal role in the background exploration and monitoring of potential alternative courses of action.
GSK3β-SCFFBXW7mediated phosphorylation and ubiquitination of IRF1 are required for its transcription-dependent turnover
Authors: Garvin Alexander J. , Khalaf Ahmed H.A. , Rettino Alessandro , Xicluna Jerome , Butler Laura , Morris Joanna R. , Heery David M. , Clarke Nicole M.
Published: November 2018

IRF1 (Interferon Regulatory Factor-1) is the prototype of the IRF family of DNA binding transcription factors. IRF1 protein expression is regulated by transient up-regulation in response to external stimuli followed by rapid degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Here we report that DNA bound IRF1 turnover is promoted by GSK3β (Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β) via phosphorylation of the T181 residue which generates a phosphodegron for the SCF (Skp-Cul-Fbox) ubiquitin E3-ligase receptor protein Fbxw7α (F-box/WD40 7). This regulated turnover is essential for IRF1 activity, as mutation of T181 results in an improperly stabilised protein that accumulates at target promoters but fails to induce RNA-Pol-II elongation and subsequent transcription of target genes. Consequently, the anti-proliferative activity of IRF1 is lost in cell lines expressing T181A mutant. Further, cell lines with dysfunctional Fbxw7 are less sensitive to IRF1 overexpression, suggesting an important co-activator function for this ligase complex. As T181 phosphorylation requires both DNA binding and RNA-Pol-II elongation, we propose that this event acts to clear “spent” molecules of IRF1 from transcriptionally engaged target promoters.
Unexpected Loss of Sensitivity to the nAChR Antagonist Activity of Mecamylamine and DHβE in Nicotine-Tolerant C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Moura Fernando B. de , McMahon Lance R.
Published: November 2018

There has always been interest in developing nAChR antagonists as smoking cessation aids, to add to nAChR agonists (e.g., nicotine replacement) already used for that indication. Previous studies have demonstrated that daily nicotine treatment confers tolerance to some of the effects of nicotine, as well as cross-tolerance to other nAChR agonists. The current study assessed the extent to which antagonism of nicotine varies as a function of daily nicotine treatment. The rate-decreasing and hypothermic effects of nicotine, as well as antagonism of those effects, were examined in C57BL/6J mice before, during treatment with, and after discontinuation of three daily injections of 1.78 mg/kg nicotine. The nonselective nAChR antagonist mecamylamine and the β2 nAChR antagonist DHβE were studied in combination with nicotine. The ED50values of nicotine to produce rate-decreasing and hypothermic effects were, respectively, 0.44 and 0.82 mg/kg prior, 1.6 and 3.2 mg/kg during, and 0.74 and 1.1 mg/kg after discontinuation of daily nicotine treatment. Prior to daily nicotine treatment, mecamylamine decreased response rate and rectal temperature; however, during daily nicotine, mecamylamine (up to 5.6 mg/kg) only decreased rectal temperature. DHβE (up to 5.6 mg/kg) when studied prior to daily nicotine decreased rectal temperature, but that decrease was abolished during chronic nicotine treatment. Mecamylamine and DHβE antagonized the rate-decreasing and hypothermic effects of nicotine before and after daily nicotine; however, during daily nicotine, mecamylamine and DHβE antagonized only the hypothermic effects of nicotine. The differential antagonism of rate-decreasing and hypothermic effects implicates differential involvement of nAChR subtypes. The decreased capacity of mecamylamine and DHβE to antagonize nicotine during chronic nicotine treatment may indicate that their effectiveness as smoking cessations might vary as a function of nicotine tolerance and dependence.
Helicobacter pylori-induced adrenomedullin modulates IFN-γ-producing T-cell responses and contribute to gastritis
Authors: Kong Hui , Zhang Jin-yu , Mao Fang-yuan , Teng Yong-sheng , Lv Yi-pin , Liu Yu-gang , Chen Weisan , Zhang Yu , Guo Gang , Zhuang Yuan
Published: November 2018

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a multifunctional peptide that is expressed by many surface epithelial cells, but its relevance to H. pylori-induced gastritis is unknown. Here, we found that gastric ADM expression was elevated in gastric mucosa of H. pylori-infected patients and mice. In H. pylori-infected human gastric mucosa, ADM expression was positively correlated with the degree of gastritis, accordingly, blockade of ADM resulted in decreased inflammation within the gastric mucosa of H. pylori-infected mice. During H. pylori infection, ADM production was promoted via PI3K-AKT signaling pathway activation by gastric epithelial cells in a cagA-dependent manner, and resulted in increased inflammation within the gastric mucosa. This inflammation was characterized by the increased IFN-γ-producing T cells, whose differentiation was induced via the phosphorylation of AKT and STAT3 by ADM derived from gastric epithelial cells. ADM also induced macrophages to produce IL-12, which promoted the IFN-γ-producing T-cell responses, thereby contributing to the development of H. pylori-associated gastritis. Accordingly, blockade of IFN-γ or knockout of IFN-γ decreased inflammation within the gastric mucosa of H. pylori-infected mice. This study identifies a novel regulatory network involving H. pylori, gastric epithelial cells, ADM, macrophages, T cells, and IFN-γ, which collectively exert a pro-inflammatory effect within the gastric microenvironment.

Author summary

H. pylori infect almost half the world’s population. Once infected, most of people carry the bacteria lifelong if left untreated, so that persistent H. pylori infection can lead to chronic gastritis, peptic ulceration and ultimately gastric cancer. H. pylori infection is accompanied with increased inflammation in gastric mucosa, but the mechanisms of chronic gastritis induced by H. pylori infection remains poorly understood. We studied a multifunctional peptide known as adrenomedullin (ADM) in gastric epithelial cells, which was known as a key factor of regulating gastrointestinal physiology and pathology. Here, we found that gastric ADM expression was elevated in gastric mucosa of H. pylori-infected patients and mice, and was positively correlated with the degree of gastritis. ADM production was promoted via PI3K-AKT signaling pathway activation by gastric epithelial cells in a cagA-dependent manner. Blockade of ADM during H. pylori infection resulted in decreased gastric inflammation that was characterized by the increased IFN-γ-producing T cells which was induced via the phosphorylation of AKT and STAT3 by ADM derived from gastric epithelial cells. ADM also induced macrophages to produce IL-12, which promoted the IFN-γ-producing T-cell responses. These data demonstrate that H. pylori-induced ADM modulates FN-γ-producing T-cell responses and contribute to gastritis.
Rapid Sequencing of Multiple RNA Viruses in their Native Form
Authors: Wongsurawat Thidathip , Jenjaroenpun Piroon , Taylor Mariah K. , Lee Jasper , Tolardo Aline Lavado , Parvathareddy Jothi , Kandel Sangam , Wadley Taylor D. , Kaewnapan Bualan , Athipanyasilp Niracha , Skidmore Andrew , Chung Donghoon , Chaimayo Chutikarn , Whitt Michael , Kantakamalakul Wannee , Sutthent Ruengpung , Horthongkham Navin , Ussery David W. , Jonsson Colleen B. , Nookaew Intawat
Published: November 2018

Long-read nanopore sequencing by a MinION device offers the unique possibility to directly sequence native RNA. We combined an enzymatic poly-A tailing reaction with the native RNA sequencing to (i) sequence complex population of single-stranded (ss)RNA viruses in parallel, (ii) detect genome, subgenomic mRNA/mRNA simultaneously, (iii) detect a complex transcriptomic architecture without the need for assembly, (iv) enable real-time detection. Using this protocol, positive-ssRNA, negative-ssRNA, with/without a poly(A)-tail, segmented/non-segmented genomes were mixed and sequenced in parallel. Mapping of the generated sequences on the reference genomes showed 100% length recovery with up to 97 % identity. This work provides a proof of principle and the validity of this strategy, opening up a wide range of applications to study RNA viruses.
Learning Drug Function from Chemical Structure with Convolutional Neural Networks and Random Forests
Authors: Meyer Jesse G. , Liu Shengchao , Miller Ian J. , Coon Joshua J. , Gitter Anthony
Published: November 2018

Empirical testing of chemicals for drug efficacy costs many billions of dollars every year. The ability to predict the action of molecules in silico would greatly increase the speed and decrease the cost of prioritizing drug leads. Here, we asked whether drug function, defined as MeSH “Therapeutic Use” classes, can be predicted from only chemical structure. We evaluated two chemical structure-derived drug classification methods, chemical images with convolutional neural networks and molecular fingerprints with random forests, both of which outperformed previous predictions that used drug-induced transcriptomic changes as chemical representations. This suggests that a chemical’s structure contains at least as much information about its therapeutic use as the transcriptional cellular response to that chemical. Further, because training data based on chemical structure is not limited to a small set of molecules for which transcriptomic measurements are available, our strategy can leverage more training data to significantly improve predictive accuracy to 83-88%. Finally, we explore use of these models for prediction of side effects and drug repurposing opportunities, and demonstrate the effectiveness of this modeling strategy for multi-label classification.
Evidence that a major subpopulation of fall armyworm found in the Western Hemisphere is rare or absent in Africa, which may limit the range of crops at risk of infestation
Authors: Nagoshi Rodney N.
Published: November 2018

The introduction and establishment of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Africa presents a major threat to agriculture in that continent and potentially to the entire Eastern Hemisphere. The species is subdivided into two subpopulations called the R-strain and C-strain that differ in their distribution on different plant hosts. This means that the scope of the economic risk posed by invasive fall armyworm is influenced by whether one or both strains are present. Multiple studies have found mitochondrial markers diagnostic of the two strains throughout Africa but there is substantial disagreement with a nuclear strain marker that makes conclusions about strain composition uncertain. In this study the issue of whether both strains are present in Africa was tested by an assay that can detect strain-biased mating behaviors. Western Hemisphere fall armyworm consistently showed evidence of strain-specific assortative mating in the field that was not found in surveys from multiple locations in Africa. The absence of strain mating biases and the disagreements between the strain diagnostic genetic markers indicates that the R-strain is rare (<1% of the population) or absent in Africa. Instead, it appears that the African fall armyworm populations are dominated by two groups, the C-strain and the descendants of interstrain hybrids. These results suggest that plant hosts associated with the R-strain may not be at high risk of fall armyworm infestation in Africa.
Prevalence of the fungal pathogenBatrachochytrium dendrobatidisin amphibians of Costa Rica predated first-known epizootic
Authors: De León Marina E. , Zumbado-Ulate Héctor , García-Rodríguez Adrián , Alvarado Gilbert , Sulaeman Hasan , Bolaños Federico , Vredenburg Vance T.
Published: November 2018

Emerging infectious diseases are a growing threat to biodiversity worldwide. Outbreaks of the infectious disease chytridiomycosis, caused by the fungal pathogenBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd), have caused the decline and extinction of numerous amphibian species. In Costa Rica, a major decline event occurred in 1987, more than two decades before this pathogen was discovered. The loss of many species in Costa Rica is assumed to be due toBd-epizootics, but there are few studies that provide data from amphibians in the time leading up to the proposed epizootics. In this study, we provide new data onBdinfection rates of amphibians collected throughout Costa Rica, in the decades prior to the epizootics. We used a quantitative PCR assay to test forBdinfection in 1016 specimens collected throughout Costa Rica. We foundBd-infected hosts collected as early as 1964, and a infection prevalence average per decade of just 4%. The infection prevalence remained relatively low and geographically constrained until the 1980s when epizootics are hypothesized to have occurred. After that time, infection prevalence increased three-fold andBd-infected hosts we collected throughout the entire country. Our results, suggest thatBdmay either have invaded Costa Rica earlier than previously known, and spread more slowly than previously reported, or that an endemic lineage of the pathogen may exists. To help visualize areas where future studies should take place, we provide aBdhabitat suitability model trained with local data. Studies that provide information on genetic lineages ofBdare needed to determine whether an endemic lineage ofBdor the Global Panzootic Lineage (identified from mass die off sites globally) was present in Costa Rica and responsible for the epizootics that caused amphibian communities to collapse.
Tasks and responsibilities in physical activity promotion of older patients during hospitalization: A nurse perspective
Authors: Scheerman Kira , Mesters Joram W. , Borger Jay N. , Meskers Carel G. M. , Maier Andrea B.
Published: November 2018

Objective

To investigate how nurses perceive tasks and responsibilities in promoting physical activity during hospitalization of older patients and which factors are of influence.

Design

Observational cohort study

Setting and participants

One hundred and eight nurse students, nurses and nurse supervisors employed by an academic Dutch teaching hospital participated in a questionnaire survey and 51 nurses took part in a subsequent in-depth interview.

Measures

Data were collected on tasks and responsibilities in physical activity promotion and their influencing factors as perceived by nurses. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data from the questionnaire survey and a deductive approach with directed content analysis was used for the data from the interviews.

Results

Nurses perceived to have a dominant role in physical activity promotion of older patients during hospitalization. Ninety percent of the nurses stated to be responsible for physical activity promotion and 32 percent stated to be satisfied with the actual level of physical activity of their patients. Influencing factors were low patient motivation, high workload causing priority shifts of tasks and the role of physicians.

Conclusion

Although their perceived dominant role in physical activity promotion, nurses identified a number of barriers interfering with actual level of physical activity. Improvement strategies should involve physicians, patients and carers.
Seedling leaves allocate lower fractions of nitrogen to photosynthetic apparatus in nitrogen fixing trees (Dalbergia odorifera and Erythrophleum fordii) than in non-nitrogen fixing trees (Betula alnoides and Castanopsis hystrix) in subtropical China
Authors: Tang Jingchao , Sun Baodi , Cheng Ruimei , Shi Zuomin , Luo Da , Liu Shirong , Centritto Mauro
Published: November 2018

Photosynthetic-nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE) is a useful trait to characterize leaf economics, physiology, and strategy. In this study, we investigated the differences in PNUE, leaf nitrogen (N) allocation, and mesophyll conductance (gm) inDalbergia odoriferaandErythrophleum fordii(N-fixing trees), andBetula alnoidesandCastanopsis hystrix(non-N-fixing trees). Seedlings of the four species were cultured in pots and received the same nutrient solution, water volume, and light. LiCor-6400 was used to determine fluorescence yield, photosynthetic response to light, and intercellular CO2concentration (Ci). N allocation fractions in the photosynthetic apparatus were calculated according to Niinemets and Tenhunen method;gmwas calculated according to variableJ, EDO, andA-Cicurve fitting methods. PNUE ofD. odoriferaandE. fordiiwere significantly lower than those ofB. alnoidesandC. hystrixbecause of their allocation of a lower fraction of leaf N to Rubisco (PR) and bioenergetics (PB). Mesophyll conductance had a significant positive correlation with PNUE inD. odorifera, E. fordii, andB. alnoides. The fraction of leaf N to cell wall (PCW) had a significant negative correlation withPRinB. alnoidesandC. hystrix. We conclude thatB. alnoidesandC. hystrixoptimized their leaf N allocation toward photosynthesis, with the trade-off being N allocation to the cell wall and Rubisco. Thus, these two species may have a higher competitive ability in natural ecosystems with fertile soil.
Conformational dynamics of the HIV Vif protein complex
Authors: Ball K. A. , Chan L. M. , Stanley D. J. , Tierney E. , Thapa S. , Ta H. M. , Burton L. A. , Binning J. M. , Jacobson M. P. , Gross J. D.
Published: November 2018

HIV-1 viral infectivity factor (Vif) is an intrinsically disordered protein responsible for the ubiquitination of the APOBEC3 antiviral proteins. Vif folds when it binds the Cullin-RING E3 ligase CRL5 and the transcription cofactor CBF-β. A five-protein complex containing the substrate receptor (Vif, CBF-β, Elongin-B, Elongin-C) and Cullin5 (CUL5) has a published crystal structure, but dynamics of this VCBC-CUL5 complex have not been characterized. Here, we use Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations and NMR to characterize the dynamics of the VCBC complex with and without CUL5 and APOBEC3 bound. Our simulations show that the VCBC complex undergoes global dynamics involving twisting and clamshell opening of the complex, while VCBC-CUL5 maintains a more static conformation, similar to the crystal structure. This observation from MD is supported by methyl-transverse relaxation optimized spectroscopy (methyl-TROSY) NMR data, which indicates that the entire VCBC complex without CUL5 is dynamic on the μs-ms timescale. Vif binds APOBEC3 to recruit it to the complex, and methyl-TROSY NMR shows that the VCBC complex is more conformationally restricted when bound to APOBEC3F, consistent with our MD simulations. Vif contains a flexible linker region located at the hinge of the VCBC complex, which changes conformation in conjuction with the global dynamics of the complex. Like other ubiquitin substrate receptors, VCBC can exist alone or in complex with CUL5 in cells. Accordingly, the VCBC complex could be a good target for therapeutics that would inhibit full assembly of the ubiquitination complex by stabilizing an alternate VCBC conformation.
Eccentric compression behavior of TRC-strengthened concrete columns under chloride environment
Authors: Hu Xiang-Qian , Yin Shiping , Lv Heng-Lin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mechanical behavior of textile-reinforced concrete (TRC)-strengthened concrete columns with small eccentricity under chloride-wet-dry cycles.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of ten reinforced concrete (RC) columns were constructed and subjected to eccentric compression, and the effects of the slenderness ratio, a variable number of wet-dry cycles and the coupled effect of loading and a chloride environment were analyzed. One of the columns tested was unreinforced, whereas the remaining columns were strengthened laterally with TRC.

Findings

The results showed that a reduction in the slenderness ratio was conducive to the improvement of the bearing capacity of the reinforced column; however, the reinforcement effect of TRC tended to decrease with an increasing number of wet-dry cycles, and the coupled effect of loading and a chloride environment significantly degraded the compression performance of TRC-strengthened columns, with the damage becoming more serious with increase in the sustained load ratio.

Research limitations/implications

In the next test, the duration of chloride-wet-dry cycles will be extended. In the same time, to obtain a clearer trend, the authors will also increase the number of specimens to obtain more data for drawing general conclusions.

Originality/value

The originality is to explore the feasibility of using cement-based materials (TRC) as a confinement technique in chloride environment. The investigations demonstrate that TRC has a good reinforcement effect on the concrete columns under chloride-wet-dry cycles. Finally, influence of each parameter is analyzed, which can be used as reference and foundation in actual application.
Complexity, creeping normalcy and conceit: sexy and unsexy catastrophic risks
Authors: Kuhlemann Karin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to consider few cognitive and conceptual obstacles to engagement with global catastrophic risks (GCRs).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper starts by considering cognitive biases that affect general thinking about GCRs, before questioning whether existential risks really are dramatically more pressing than other GCRs. It then sets out a novel typology of GCRs – sexy vs unsexy risks – before considering a particularly unsexy risk, overpopulation.

Findings

It is proposed that many risks commonly regarded as existential are “sexy” risks, while certain other GCRs are comparatively “unsexy.” In addition, it is suggested that a combination of complexity, cognitive biases and a hubris-laden failure of imagination leads us to neglect the most unsexy and pervasive of all GCRs: human overpopulation. The paper concludes with a tentative conceptualisation of overpopulation as a pattern of risking.

Originality/value

The paper proposes and conceptualises two new concepts, sexy and unsexy catastrophic risks, as well as a new conceptualisation of overpopulation as a pattern of risking.
Influence of repeated household fabric softener treatment on the comfort characteristics of cotton and polyester fabrics
Authors: Rathinamoorthy R.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The utilisation of softener after laundering of textile became one of the mandatory activities among the consumers. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to determine the influence of repeated rinse cycle softener treatment on the comfort characteristics of cotton and polyester woven fabric.

Design/methodology/approach

The selected cotton and polyester fabrics were treated using three different softeners types and three different numbers of rinsing times, namely 5, 10 and 15. The impact of repeated rinse cycle softener treatment on the comfort characteristics like absorbency, air permeability, wicking, thermal conductivity and flammability was analysed and the changes in the properties were confirmed using two-way ANOVA.

Findings

The number of rinse cycle softener treatment has a significant impact on the absorbency, air permeability and wicking ability of the cotton and polyester fabrics. The thermal conductivity and flammability characteristics of the fabrics mostly altered based on the type of fabric softener used. For all the type of fabric, the burning time reduced after the softener treatment.

Social implications

The consumer expects the softness and fragrance smell developed by the rinse cycle softener and they intend to use it more frequently after every laundry process to achieve that feel. This repeated the application of softener causes a negative impact on the fabric performances. This research result provides an evidence for the changes in physiological comfort aspects of textiles.

Originality/value

This analysis enlightens the negative impact of the repeated use of commercial fabric softener and their types on the common fabrics used in apparel endues.
Effect of preferential trade agreements on China’s energy trade from Chinese and exporters’ perspectives
Authors: Galkin Philipp , Bollino Carlo Andrea , Atalla Tarek
Published: November 2018

Purpose

China is a major energy import powerhouse, its trade deals have significant impact on international energy trade and global energy markets. The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of energy in China’s preferential trade agreements (PTAs) and their impact on Chinese imports of oil, gas and coal.

Design/methodology/approach

An extended trade gravity model framework is applied to explore the dynamics of China’s annualized energy import flows from the 22 economies that have PTAs with it for the period 1995–2015.

Findings

The effect of PTAs on trade patterns varies across the product groups and agreement clauses. The dominant factor affecting trade flows of coal, crude oil and oil products is the average tariff level. Its impact is less significant for gas imports, which are more affected by policy arrangements represented by a PTA variable. The depth and scope of a PTA do not affect Chinese energy imports patterns.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is focused on exploring the effect of China’s trade and foreign relations strategies on its energy imports through the prism of its PTAs. Estimating the direct impact of China’s initiatives in the areas of trade, investment, security, culture, etc., on its trade flows of energy products and other product groups using the methodological framework proposed in this study would contribute to better understanding of the issue.

Practical implications

The findings can assist both China and energy exporting countries that target Chinese market in better understanding the drivers of trade flows of energy products and design their PTA strategies accordingly.

Originality/value

This study applies the trade gravity model framework to assess the impact of specific components of preferential trade agreements – tariff reduction and depth and scope of agreement – on energy trade flows differentiated by product group.
The philosophical roots of development ethics
Authors: Marangos John , Astroulakis Niko , Triarchi Eirini
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the philosophical roots of development ethics as a field of study with its interdisciplinary character.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual and historical evolution of development ethics is unfolded through Aristotle’s philosophy.

Findings

The authors argued that Aristotle’s philosophy, incorporating the concepts of “a good life” and “a good society,” defines ethical development and influences contemporary development ethics.

Originality/value

Development ethics is a relatively new field of study within social sciences and determines the ethical perspective of development in a holistic and normative manner. It is important to understand the antecedents, pioneers and contemporary practitioners of development ethics and how they are related. Based on the authors’ knowledge, there has been limited research regarding the origins of the concept of a “good society” as a determinant factor of development. In this context, Aristotle’s philosophy incorporating the concepts of a “good life” and a “good society” is the founding determinant in the study of ethical development.
Customer engagement through choice in cause-related marketing
Authors: Christofi Michael , Vrontis Demetris , Leonidou Erasmia , Thrassou Alkis
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to construct a conceptual framework of the effects of customer engagement on cause-related marketing (CRM), with the goal of providing a solid scientific foundation for the development and stimulation of future research on the critical intersection of these two topics.

Design/methodology/approach

The research defines customer engagement in CRM campaigns as the conditions under which consumers are allowed to choose the cause that receives the donation, the cause proximity (geographical proximity) and the type of donation in a CRM campaign.

Findings

The paper conceptualizes the role of customer engagement in enhancing the effectiveness of a CRM campaign, in terms of coverage, customization and reduced consumer skepticism, as well as in triggering positive word-of-mouth (WOM) persuasion behaviors.

Practical implications

The conceptual framework provides several practicable directions toward effective control of CRM campaign outcomes, for both local and global firms.

Originality/value

The paper rests on established empirical foundations to develop a comprehensive preliminary multi- disciplinary framework on the subject, setting the path for further research in the fields of CRM, customer engagement andInternational Business Research, and reaching findings of both scholarly and executive worth.
A sustainable assessment model for material selection in construction industries perspective using hybrid MCDM approaches
Authors: Mathiyazhagan Kaliyan , Gnanavelbabu A. , Lokesh Prabhuraj B.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Urbanization and globalization in India have led to the depletion of resources and degradation of the environment to meet the demands. Because of these issues, researchers and practitioners have begun to study various strategies to reduce the level consumption of resources to utilize it for present and future needs. In pursuit of finding solutions to the problems, sustainable building construction is found as the best key to avoid depletion of resources. Sustainable material selection is found as a vital strategy in construction. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-phase methodology is proposed for framing the assessment model for construction industries to select materials for construction. In the first phase, a total of 23 sub-criteria of triple bottom line (TBL) and four brick materials as alternatives were identified. The second phase finds the weights and ranks of criteria and sub-criteria using the best worst methodology (BWM) the third phase involves ranking of materials concerning sub-criteria weights determined in phase II using Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS).

Findings

The objective of study is fixed to identify the criteria list for the selection of material in construction industries from the literature review especially for Indian construction industries; to rank the criteria for selection of materials with the help of the BWM approach; and to prioritize the identified materials in the view of sustainability with the help of Fuzzy TOPSIS in construction industries perspective. This study analyzed and choosing right sustainable materials by the three pillars of sustainability which are the environment, economic and social, also called TBL, for Indian construction companies by framing a sustainable material assessment model.

Originality/value

The results of this study facilitate to frame an assessment model for evaluating and selecting sustainable building materials.
The information behaviours of maximum security prisoners
Authors: Canning Cheryl , Buchanan Steven
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advance the understanding of the information behaviours of prisoners, providing insight into their information needs and information-seeking preferences, and the factors influencing their behaviours; to inform education and rehabilitation programmes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is an in-depth qualitative study. The theoretical framework was provided via Chatman’s (1996) concepts of information poverty. Participants were adult male prisoners in a Scottish maximum security prison, and prison staff. Data collection method was semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Prisoners have a broad range of information needs, many sensitive and many unmet. Interpersonal information sources are predominantly used due to a combination of natural preference and restricted access to other information sources. Issues of stigma and trust influence information behaviours. Further issues include restrictive social norms, and disinformation to incite violence. A significant degree of risk is therefore inherent within interpersonal information interactions, fostering self-protective acts of secrecy and deception amongst prisoners. Unmet emotional needs appear particularly problematic.

Research limitations/implications

The paper highlights the need for further research exploring issues of unmet emotional needs in prisoners; in particular, assistive methods of need recognition and support in the problematic context.

Practical implications

The paper identifies significant unmet information needs in prisoners that impact upon their ability to cope with incarceration, and prepare for successful release and reintegration.

Originality/value

The paper addresses an understudied group of significant societal concern and advances the understanding of information need in context, providing insight into unmet needs and issues of affect in the incarcerated small world context.