bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct antagonist-bound inactive states underlie the divergence in the structures of the dopamine D2 and D3 receptors
Authors: Lane J. Robert , Abramyan Ara M. , Verma Ravi Kumar , Lim Herman D. , Javitch Jonathan A. , Shi Lei
Published: May 2019

Understanding how crystal structures reflect the range of possible G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) states is critical for rational drug discovery (RDD). Combining computational simulations with mutagenesis and binding studies, we find that the structure of the dopamine D2 receptor (D2R)/risperidone complex captures an inactive receptor conformation that accommodates some but not all antagonist scaffolds. Indeed, we find that eticlopride binds D2R in a configuration very similar to that seen in the D3R structure, in a pose that is incompatible with the D2R/risperidone structure. Moreover, our simulations reveal that extracellular loops 1 and 2 (EL1 and EL2) are highly dynamic, with spontaneous transitions of EL2 from the helical conformation in the D2R/risperidone structure to an extended conformation similar to that in the D3R/eticlopride structure. Our results highlight previously unappreciated conformational diversity and dynamics in the inactive state of a GPCR with potential functional implications. These findings are also of paramount importance for RDD as limiting a virtual screen to one state will miss relevant ligands.
Modeling tissue growth with the Stokes equation
Authors: Häkkinen Teemu J. , Jernvall Jukka , Hannukainen Antti
Published: May 2019

We present a cell-free continuum model for simulating generalized bulk tissue growth in 3D. We assume that the tissue behaves mechanically as viscous fluid so that its behavior can be described with the Stokes equation with mass sources. The growth is directed by a diffusing morphogen produced by specialized signaling centers, whose positions are established through a reaction-diffusion system coupled with differentiation. We further assume that the tissue interface may be stiff (modeled as surface tension), and that tissue adhesion can vary (modeled as variable viscosity). The numerical validity of the implementation is investigated using test cases with known solutions, and the model dynamics are demonstrated in simulations of idealized tissue growth. The combination of Stokes equation and diffusing morphogens allow the integration of patterning and growth as in real organs systems such as limbs and teeth. We propose that the presented techniques could be useful for simulating and exploring mechanistic principles of tissue growth in various developing organs.
Crystal structure of tetrakis[μ-3-carboxy-1-(1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)adamantane-κ2
N
1:N
2]tetrafluoridodi-μ2-oxido-dioxidodisilver(I)divanadium(V) tetrahydrate
Authors: Senchyk Ganna A. , Lysenko Andrey B. , Rusanov Eduard B. , Domasevitch Kostiantyn V.
Published: May 2019

The crystal structure of the title molecular complex, [Ag2{VO2F2}2(C13H17N3O2)4]·4H2O, supported by the heterofunctional ligand tr-ad-COOH [1-(1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)-3-carboxyadamantane] is reported. Four 1,2,4-triazole groups of the ligand link two AgI atoms, as well as AgI and VV centres, forming the heterobimetallic coordination cluster {AgI
2(VVO2F2)2(tr)4}. VV exists as a vanadium oxofluoride anion and possesses a distorted trigonal–bipyramidal coordination environment [VO2F2N]. A carboxylic acid functional group of the ligand stays in a neutral form and is involved in hydrogen bonding with solvent water molecules and VO2F2
− ions of adjacent molecules. The extended hydrogen-bonding network is responsible for the crystal packing in the structure.
Poor consumers’ preferences for nutritionally enhanced foods
Authors: Wanyama Rosina , Gödecke Theda , Jager Matthias , Qaim Matin
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Micronutrient malnutrition is a public health problem in many developing countries, especially in the poorest population segments. Fortification and other food-based approaches, such as using more nutritious ingredients in processing, could help to address this problem, but little is known about poor consumers’ attitudes toward nutritionally enhanced foods. The purpose of this paper is to analyze whether poor consumers in Africa would purchase foods with more nutritious ingredients and the related willingness and ability to pay.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey and choice experiment were conducted with 600 randomly selected households in the poorest neighborhoods of Nairobi (Kenya) and Kampala (Uganda). Participants were asked to choose between various alternatives of porridge flour with different types of nutritional attributes. The data were analyzed with mixed logit models. Porridge flour is widely consumed among the urban poor, so that the example can also provide interesting broader lessons.

Findings

Poor consumers welcome foods that are micronutrient-fortified or include new types of nutritious ingredients. However, willingness to pay for nutritional attributes is small. New ingredients that are perceived to have little effect on taste and appearance are seen more positively than ingredients that may change food products more notably.

Practical implications

New nutritionally enhanced foods have good potential in markets for the poor, if they build on local consumption habits and are not associated with significant price increases.

Originality/value

This is among the first studies to explicitly analyze poor consumers’ preferences for nutritionally enhanced foods.
The moderating effect of temporal distance on partitioned vs combined pricing
Authors: Choi Jungsil , Bolton Dorcia E. , Grishin Marija
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how temporal distance influences the evaluation of partitioned pricing.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of temporal distance on the effectiveness of partitioned pricing is tested using data collected through experiments in the USA.

Findings

Study 1 reveals that people perceive partitioned pricing as more attractive than combined pricing, but only for a distant event. Study 2 reveals that individuals predisposed to global information processing perceive partitioned pricing as more attractive than combined pricing. However, for individuals who commonly engage in local processing, combined pricing was equally attractive as partitioned pricing. In Study 3, the authors examine a boundary condition and find that the joint effect of temporal distance and partitioned pricing is attenuated when the purchase is made for a gift in which consumers are assumed to pay less attention to a surcharge. In Study 4, the authors examine how partitioned pricing influences a consumer’s choice in terms of temporal distance.

Practical implications

The findings provide practical guidelines to business leaders looking for practical guidelines for pricing policy decisions.

Originality/value

Previous research shows that partitioned pricing is more effective in increasing consumers’ purchase intention and demand than combined pricing. In the present research, the authors introduce temporal distance as an important moderator that affects the effectiveness of partitioned pricing.
Antecedents and consequences of staff-related fraud in the Ghanaian banking industry
Authors: Asmah Alexander Ekow , Atuilik Williams Abayaawien , Ofori Dominic
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the antecedents and consequences of employee fraud, focusing on the banking industry in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A major bank was selected for the case study analysis. The researchers used qualitative data analysis for the study. Content analysis of investigation reports and interviews of employees from different functional areas were used as the main data collection tools.

Findings

This study found that loans contracted by bank employees with huge repayment amounts put financial pressure on them to commit fraud. The study also found that inadequate controls in some areas of the bank can fuel the commission of fraud. In addition, aggrieved employees have a high propensity of committing fraud. Huge punitive consequences were noted to exist for employees who perpetrate fraud, and shareholders are also affected by the fraudulent behaviour of employees.

Research limitations/implications

Findings shown in the study confirm the hypotheses of the fraud triangle theory on the causes of fraud despite its criticisms. The findings are also consistent with extant studies on the antecedents and consequences of fraud. The use of one bank for the case study analysis as well as the three-year analysis period impose a limitation on the study. Future studies can explore fraud using other different theoretical lenses. Gathering data from more than one bank and for a longer period of analysis may provide more accurate results.

Practical implications

This study provides some recommendations for fraud prevention in the banking industry in Ghana. The major one is the need for the central bank to collaborate with financial institutions to set up an effective creditworthiness system that will aid the monitoring of activities of the banks. Banks should also ensure that systems of controls are reviewed regularly to identify and deal with fraud.

Originality/value

This study is original, as it focuses on an industry that is highly susceptible to fraud due to issues of confidentiality with data and with scanty literature on fraud.
Seeds of systemic corruption in the post-Brexit UK
Authors: Pasculli Lorenzo
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This study aims to assess the risks of systematisation of corruption in the UK following the Brexit referendum.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies theoretical and empirical findings of criminological, social, psychological, economic and legal research on the causes of systemic corruption to the socio-institutional developments following the Leave vote.

Findings

The events surrounding the referendum confirm that the resort to corrupt practices is normalised in certain sectors of the British institutions, business and media and that socio-political processes activated by the Leave vote and inadequate UK policymaking and lawmaking can aggravate the situational and socio-psychological enablers of systemic corruption. Effective solutions must go beyond mere anti-corruption laws and address deeper social issues.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses only on some of the major situational and socio-psychological causes of systemic corruption, including the unintended criminogenic effects of the law. More interdisciplinary research is required to address other causes, such as historical and cultural factors.

Practical implications

The findings of this study can inspire practical solutions by policymakers and future research.

Social implications

The study contributes to raising social awareness and stimulating public discussion on systemic corruption in the UK and on the consequences of the referendum on public and private integrity.

Originality/value

The study offers the first systematic analysis of the effects of Brexit and the referendum on corruption through an integrated interdisciplinary approach to systemic corruption in the UK.
The effect of female portrayal in advertising on the Palestinian females purchase decision
Authors: Salem Mohammed Z. , Baidoun Samir , Walsh Grace , Sweidan Netham
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of female portrayal in advertisements on Palestinian female consumers’ purchasing decisions. TV and online media were selected as the medium for the study. Specifically, the researchers examine the one-dimensional sexualized female portrayal in advertisements.

Design/methodology/approach

Culture is used as the lens through which the study examines the relationship between independent and dependent variables concerning the topic of this study. The study collected primary data from 395 Palestinian participants through a survey questionnaire.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that there is a relationship between the independent variable (the sexualized female portrayal in foreign advertisements – advertisements originating in foreign countries) and the dependent variable (Palestinian female consumers’ purchase decision). Additionally, the study found that the cultural differences between Palestine and other foreign countries have a negative impact on the Palestinian female consumers’ perception of the product being advertised.

Practical implications

Although traditional marketing procedures would allow companies to filter and adapt particular adverts to suit various cultural, social and political environments, the advent of the open web and satellite TV channels extend the advertisements reach to audiences beyond their intended demographic.

Originality/value

This is the first study set in the Arab context (including Palestine) to explore the impact of sexualized female portrayal in advertisements on Palestinian female consumers’ purchasing decision.
Exploring expatriate fan identification in international football supporters
Authors: Burton Nicholas , Bradish Cheri , Dempsey Melanie
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine international football supporter behaviours within the context of national and socio-cultural identification, in an effort to better understand what role national identity plays in fan motivation and consumer behaviour for expatriate and non-domestic fans.

Design/methodology/approach

International football supporters across ten cultural and ethnic communities were surveyed throughout the 2014 Fédération Internationale de Football Association World Cup Finals, exploring the identification and new media socialisation behaviours of national team supporters in non-domestic markets.

Findings

The study’s findings provide evidence of the role identification plays in informing national and ethnic identities. Supporting one’s home or ancestral national team reflects an important element of national identification and socio-cultural place for expatriate or non-domestic supporters of international football. Importantly, new media behaviours provide supporters with a formative and productive source of national team fan engagement and ethnocultural community creation, particularly for younger target audiences.

Practical implications

These results bear particular significance for theory and practice: the digital socialisation behaviours supporters engage in are integral components of identity building and communication. In better understanding the awareness and interest of geographically detached sport consumers, this study offers new perspective into the opportunities present for sport organisations and marketers in reaching non-domestic fan nations.

Originality/value

The findings offer new perspective into the role national identification plays in fan involvement and motivation, and importantly how new media has emerged as a key platform for expatriate and non-domestic supporter socialisation amongst international football supporters.
Specialist community teams for adults with learning disabilities: referrals to a countywide service in England
Authors: Clare Isabel C.H. , Wade Kelly A. , Ranke Nadine , Whitson Sarah , Lillywhite Alison , Jones Elizabeth , Broughton SallyAnne , Wagner Adam , Holland Anthony J.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

While “generic” community teams for adults with learning disabilities (CTs) are well-established in the UK, very little recent evidence is available about any aspect of their work. As part of a larger project about the role, structure and functioning of CTs, the purpose of this paper is to provide data about referrals.

Design/methodology/approach

Over three months, the authors obtained data about 270 consecutive new referrals to five CTs in a countywide integrated health (NHS) and care management (local authority) service.

Findings

The 270 referrals related to 255 individuals, mainly already service users, with almost a third (30 per cent, n=204) described as people with severe or profound disabilities. Consistent with the reported living arrangements (residential accommodation or with one or more family members (87 per cent, n=270)), referrals were most often made by social care staff, General Practitioners or carers. The referrals related to a wide range of issues including mental health and/or behavioural needs, physical health and skills, and independence. The major group, however, were requests about a person’s entitlement to specialist learning disability services and/or reviews of an existing social care package.

Research limitations/implications

The focus on new referrals and the exclusion of intra-team referrals mean that the data are not representative of a CT’s caseload and cannot be used as a basis for resourcing. Nevertheless, the findings emphasise the heterogeneity of the population, and the long-term and varied nature of their needs, meaning that CTs require access to a range of expertise and, often, an inter-agency approach. The implications for service design are considered.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study of referrals to specialist integrated (health and care management) community learning disabilities teams in England.
A critical reflection on the development of the Participatory Autism Research Collective (PARC)
Authors: Milton Damian Elgin Maclean , Ridout Susy , Kourti Marianthi , Loomes Gillian , Martin Nicola
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The Participatory Autism Research Collective (PARC) was initially set up with the purpose of bringing autistic people, including scholars and activists (but not exclusively), together with early career researchers and practitioners who work with autistic people, with the aim being to build a community where those who wished to see more significant involvement of autistic people in autism research could share knowledge and expertise. This paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the development of the PARC network, reflecting upon its activities and ethos within current higher education practices and structures.

Findings

In supporting autistic individuals in their attempts to establish themselves within academic systems that may not always be considerate or accommodating, the existence of PARC creates a structure with which autistic people can influence social change. PARC serves as a network of support, strengthening the presence of autistic scholars in academia. It also provides a structure through which autistic people are able to demonstrate helpful practices with which to engage more broadly.

Originality/value

The PARC network is the first autistic-led venture of its kind in the UK to have a sustained impact. PARC is growing to become an important element in the field of autism studies both by supporting emerging autistic academics and by promoting ethical and participatory research methods and practices.
Leaf water relations and structural traits of four temperate woody species occurring in serpentine and non‐serpentine soil
Authors: Kawai Kiyosada , Saito Haruka , Kajino Hirofumi , Nakai Wataru , Nakamura Ryosuke , Sato Kai , Okada Naoki
Published: May 2019

Low water‐holding properties impose dry conditions on plants on serpentine soil. To test the hypothesis that leaf water relations are key plant characteristics to grow in serpentine soil, we compared these traits for four tree species (Quercus serrata, Clethra barbinervis, Magnolia obovata and Pieris japonica) growing in serpentine soil and brown forest (BF) soil. Despite a much lower soil moisture content, trees in the serpentine soil (S) plot showed similar predawn leaf water potential to trees in the BF plot in all species. Trees in the S plot showed higher drought tolerance or drought avoidance than trees in the BF plot. In the S plot, enhanced drought tolerance through osmoregulation was observed in Q. serrata and P. japonica, whereas decreased leaf capacitance was observed in C. barbinervis and Q. serrata. Decreased stomatal conductance, a typical way to avoid drought stress, was observed for serpentine C. barbinervis and M. obovata and midday leaf water potential was comparable between S and BF plots for C. barbinervis. Lamina dry mass per area was higher for C. barbinervis but lower for Q. serrata in the S plot. Wood density was higher in serpentine Q. serrata and M. obovata. On the other hand, all studied species showed lower leaf nitrogen concentration in the S plot. Our results suggest that (a) despite low water availability, the tress in the serpentine plot did not suffer drought stress, and (b) leaf water relations may be one of the traits that enabled trees to inhabit serpentine soil.
Understanding behaviour change in context: examining the role of midstream social marketing programmes
Authors: Luca Nadina R. , Hibbert Sally , McDonald Ruth
Published: May 2019

This research examines how midstream social marketing programmes that adopt a relational and community‐based approach create opportunities for individuals to make incremental changes to health behaviour. Specifically, it applies Bourdieusian theory to explore how interactions between community healthcare workers (CHWs) and members of the public generate impetus for change and foster individual agency for improved health. Qualitative interviews were carried out with members of the public and CHWs engaged in a Smokefree home and cars initiative. The findings suggest that although CHWs are challenged by resource constraints, their practices in working with individuals and families build trust and enable dialogue that bridges smoking‐related health insight with home logics. These interactions can promote individual agency with a transformative effect through small changes to smoking‐related dispositions, norms and practices. However, tensions with the habitus of other household members and other capital deficits can inhibit progress towards embedding new practices. The study concludes that interventions built upon community relationships show potential for addressing limitations of information‐focused campaigns but there is a need to also respond to key social structures relating to the field of action for new health dispositions to become embedded in practice.
Effects of curd heating with or without previous milk pasteurisation on the microbiological quality and safety of craft‐made ‘Pasta Filata’ Kashkaval cheese curds
Authors: Samelis John , Kakouri Athanasia , Kondyli Efthymia , Pappa Eleni C
Published: May 2019

An empirical ‘Pasta Filata’ process used for traditional Kashkaval cheese manufacture from raw ewes’ milk improved the hygiene of fresh curd. Coagulase‐positive (RPF+) staphylococci and coliforms declined by 2.4 and 4.5 log units, respectively, and Listeria contamination was minimised. Before Pasta Filata, RPF+ staphylococci exceeded the 5‐log threshold level specified in EC Regulation 1441/2007 in raw milk curds despite the prevalence of indigenous mesophilic lactic acid bacteria. Pasta Filata favoured enterococci in raw milk curds. Pasteurisation enhanced prevalence of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactococcus lactis starters and microbial quality and safety of pasteurised milk curds before and particularly after Pasta Filata.
Precision medicine in primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Ronca Vincenzo , Gerussi Alessio , Cristoferi Laura , Carbone Marco , Invernizzi Pietro
Published: May 2019

For many years the one‐size‐fits‐all approach has been the only one available to manage patients affected by primary biliary cholangitis. The introduction of obeticholic acid in 2016 as a second‐line treatment, together with the creation and validation of several biochemically based scores to stratify the risk of progressive disease, has opened up the need to redefine clinical practice by changing the actual paradigm. The precision medicine initiative is a model of patient‐centered health care that aims to improve medicine based on genotypic and molecular characteristics that correlate to specific phenotypic, individual characteristics. In summary, the aim of the precision medicine is to define the right treatment for the right person at the right time. The availability of a second‐line disease‐modifying drug and new molecules in phase 2 or 3 trials makes this an exciting time for the precision medicine initiative in primary biliary cholangitis. In this review we describe the current risk stratification tools and we track a possible path towards the application of precision medicine in clinical daily life.
Retrospective review of CT brain image quality, diagnostic adequacy and radiation dose in a paediatric population imaged at a non‐paediatric tertiary hospital
Authors: Ling Lisa Luo‐Lan , Fitt Greg , Begbie Mark , Fleming Catriona Anne , Perchyonok Yuliya
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Minimising radiation exposure in paediatric imaging examinations whilst maintaining acceptable diagnostic quality continues to present a challenge. The aims of this study were to assess institutional compliance of paediatric CT brain (CTB) examinations performed in an adult hospital with ARPANSA radiation dose recommendations and to compare qualitative CTB diagnostic acceptability with objective imaging parameters and radiation dose.

Methods

A retrospective review of 115 consecutive paediatric CTB examinations was undertaken at an adult tertiary referral centre in Australia over a 2‐year period. Dose length product (DLP) was compared with the ARPANSA standards. CTB image quality was subjectively classified by two neuroradiologists independently, with discordant results resolved by consensus. Objective assessment of image quality included measurements of signal‐to‐noise (SNR) and contrast‐to‐noise ratios (CNR) of grey and white matter.

Results

All patient scans complied with ARPANSA DLP recommendations; however, 10 out of 115 scans were classified as being of diagnostically suboptimal image quality. These scans had significantly lower mean DLP values compared with diagnostically adequate examinations (105.1 vs 379.2 mGy.cm; P < 0.0001). CTB scans of adequate diagnostic quality, when compared to suboptimal scans, had significantly higher CNR (1.8 vs 1.1; P < 0.0001) and SNR in grey (7.1 vs 4.6; P < 0.0001) and white matter (5.6 vs 3.8; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

All CTB examinations in this series complied with the ARPANSA DLP recommendations; however, 9% were of suboptimal diagnostic image quality. While it is important to minimize unnecessary radiation exposure, our results suggest that excessively low DLP values can lead to suboptimal diagnostic image quality.
Stress and nicotine during adolescence disrupts adult hippocampal‐dependent learning and alters stress reactivity
Authors: Holliday Erica D. , Logue Sheree F. , Oliver Chicora , Bangasser Debra A. , Gould Thomas J.
Published: May 2019

Adolescence represents increased susceptibility to stress that increases risk for nicotine dependence. The present study examined the interactive effects of brief exposure to stress (shipping/transportation or experimentally induced) and chronic nicotine during adolescence on cognitive function and stress reactivity in adulthood. Adolescent (P31), but not young adult (P47), C57BL/6J mice had higher levels of corticosterone after shipping vs mice bred onsite. Shipped preadolescent (P23) and adolescent (P38) mice, but not those bred onsite, exposed to nicotine showed deficits in contextual fear learning when tested in adulthood. Adult learning deficits were replicated in adolescent mice bred onsite, exposed to experimentally induced stress, and administered chronic nicotine. Stress and nicotine during adolescence resulted in higher expression of hippocampal glucocorticoid receptors and corticotropin‐releasing factor receptors and blunted restraint induced CORT release in adulthood. Importantly, studies examining adolescent behavior in mice should consider stress influences outcomes.
Medical students' experiences in learning the Mental State Examination with standardized patients
Authors: Mahendran Rathi , Lim Haikel Muhammad Asyraf , Kua Ee Heok
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Standardized patients are widely used in psychiatry teaching and examinations, but their effectiveness in teaching psychopathology and the Mental State Examination in particular has not been established. A mixed‐methods study was undertaken amongst fourth year medical students during a psychiatry rotation to explore the usefulness of learning the Mental State Examination with standardized patients compared with real patients.

Methods

Qualitative semistructured interviews (N = 10) were done to explore learning experiences with standardized patients. The Experience with Standardized Patients Scale was used (N = 200) for the quantitative assessment in relation to examination performance and learning experience.

Results

In qualitative interviews, the common themes were that the experience with standardized patients was not natural and made it difficult to suspend disbelief, but students recognized the usefulness of standardized patients for practicing their skills. While there was no significant relationship between overall student experiences with standardized patients and their examination performance in the end‐of‐rotation Observed Standardized Clinical Examination (P = .40), the exception was with those who perceived they learnt more communication skills with standardized patients (P = .002). Students' experience with standardized patients role‐playing psychotic disorders was poorest compared with standardized patients role‐playing depressive and neurotic disorders. There were statistically significant differences in experiences between the three diagnostic groups.

Discussion

Standardized patients are useful in psychiatry for students to practice and improve their skills in eliciting psychopathology. However, attention to the training and selection of these individuals for psychiatric roles are crucial.
Neutrophils develop rapid proinflammatory response after engulfing Hb-activated platelets under intravascular hemolysis
Authors: Bhasym A , Annarapu GK , Saha S , Shrimali N , Gupta S , Seth T , Guchhait P
Published: May 2019

Neutrophils maintain immune homeostasis by engulfing apoptotic cells and debris. We describe the rapid activation of neutrophils after engulfing hemoglobin (Hb)-activated platelets, which are abundant in the circulation of hemolytic patients. Neutrophils from healthy individuals after engulfing Hb-activated platelets express elevated CD11b and secrete significant amounts of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and elastase within 4-h platelets, but not with free-Hb only in vitro. These neutrophils exhibit early onset of apoptosis and cell death after engulfing Hb-activated platelets, but not with free-Hb only. Further, our data from mice with phenylhydrazine-induced intravascular hemolysis display a gradual decrease in total neutrophil count, but the number of activated neutrophils and neutrophil–platelet aggregates increases, along with the rise of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and MPO in circulation. Our data from paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) patients confirmed the observation of decreased total neutrophil counts, but elevated numbers of activated neutrophils, including neutrophil–platelet aggregates, in parallel with elevated expression of TNFA, IL1B and IL6 genes in neutrophils, also increased levels of these cytokines along with MPO in circulation, and this correlated directly with elevated intravascular hemolysis (high free-Hb in plasma). The patients’ neutrophils displayed significant localization of intracellular Hb and platelets, unlike the counterparts from healthy individuals. Together, therefore, our observations suggest that Hb-activated platelets, which are abundant in the circulation of patients with hemolytic disorders, including PNH, promotes early onset of neutrophil activation and increases their proinflammatory response and leads to early apoptosis and cell death.
Epithelial ovarian cancer risk: A review of the current genetic landscape
Authors: Flaum Nicola , Crosbie Emma J. , Edmondson Richard J. , Smith Miriam J. , Evans Dafydd G.
Published: May 2019

Ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer‐related death in women in the developed world, and one of the most heritable cancers. One of the most significant risk factors for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer. Combined risk factors can be used in models to stratify risk of EOC, and aid in decisions regarding risk‐reduction strategies. Germline pathogenic variants in EOC susceptibility genes including those involved in homologous recombination and mismatch repair pathways are present in approximately 22% to 25% of EOC. These genes are associated with an estimated lifetime risk of EOC of 13% to 60% for BRCA1 variants and 10% to 25% for BRCA2 variants, with lower risks associated with remaining genes. Genome‐wide association studies have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) thought to explain an additional 6.4% of the familial risk of ovarian cancer, with 34 susceptibility loci identified to date. However, an unknown proportion of the genetic component of EOC risk remains unexplained. This review comprises an overview of individual genes and SNPs suspected to contribute to risk of EOC, and discusses use of a polygenic risk score to predict individual cancer risk more accurately.
Connectivity and zebra mussel invasion offer short‐term buffering of eutrophication impacts on floodplain lake landscape biodiversity
Authors: Salgado Jorge , Sayer Carl D. , Brooks Stephen J. , Davidson Thomas A. , Baker Ambroise G. , Willby Nigel , Patmore Ian R. , Goldsmith Ben , Bennion Helen , Okamura Beth
Published: May 2019

Aim

To investigate if connectivity and zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) occurrence can mitigate effects of eutrophication in a lowland lake landscape.

Location

Upper Lough Erne, Northern Ireland, UK.

Methods

Data on environment, macrophytes and invertebrates were assembled for three basins of a large central lake and its satellite floodplain lakes via field surveys and palaeolimnological analyses. Space–time interaction analyses of palaeoecological data were compared pre‐1950 and post‐1950. Multivariate analyses examined how connectivity, environment and zebra mussels influenced contemporary lake communities, and explain their divergence from historical communities in the past.

Results

Pre‐1950, we found high community variation across sites and low within‐lake variation in macrophytes, but progressive eutrophication accentuated within‐lake community variation after 1950. Partitioning analysis showed larger effects of connectivity than nutrient enrichment on contemporary macrophyte composition, while local effects structured invertebrate communities. Three clusters of lakes were revealed according to variation in macrophyte composition, isolation from the central lake and nutrient enrichment: Group 1– the central lake and six nearby lakes were meso‐eutrophic (TP = 66.7 ± 47.6 μg/L; TN = 0.79 ± 0.41 mg/L) and had the highest zebra mussel abundances and organismal biodiversity; Group 2– Eight eutrophic (TP = 112±36.6 μg/L; TN = 1.25 ± 0.5 mg/L) and connected lakes; Group 3– Seven isolated and hypertrophic (TP = 163.2 ± 101.5 μg/L; TN = 1.55 ± 0.3 mg/L) lakes. Pre‐1950 palaeolimnological data for macrophytes and invertebrates for 5 lakes and a basin in the central lake most resembled extant lake communities of Group 1. However, palaeo‐records revealed that macrophytes and invertebrates subsequently converged towards those of Groups 2 and 3.

Main conclusions

Our study reveals that the central “mother” lake acts as a hub for preserving biodiversity via shared hydrological connectivity with satellite lakes and high zebra mussel abundances. These may buffer the impoverishing effects of eutrophication and sustain unexpectedly high biodiversity in the short term. Such protective buffering, however, cannot be relied upon indefinitely to conserve biodiversity.
Digital mapping of buried soil horizons using 2D and pseudo‐3D geoelectrical measurements in a ground moraine landscape
Authors: van der Kroef Ilona , Koszinski Sylvia , Grinat Michael , van der Meij Marijn , Hierold Wilfried , Südekum Wolfgang , Sommer Michael
Published: May 2019

The identification of buried soil horizons in agricultural landscapes helps to quantify sediment budgets and erosion‐related carbon dynamics. High‐resolution mapping of buried horizons using conventional soil surveys is destructive and time consuming. Geoelectrical sensors can offer a fast and non‐destructive alternative for determining horizon positions and properties. In this paper, we compare the suitability of several geoelectrical methods for measuring the depth to buried horizons (Apb, Ahb and Hab) in the hummocky ground moraine landscape of northeastern Germany. Soil profile descriptions were developed for 269 locations within a 6‐ha experimental field “CarboZALF‐D”. A stepwise linear discriminant analysis (LDA) estimated the lateral position of the buried horizons using electromagnetic induction data and terrain attributes. To predict the depth of a buried horizon, multiple linear regression (MLR) was used for both a 120‐m transect and a 0.2‐ha pseudo‐three‐dimensional (3D) area. At these scales, apparent electrical conductivity (ECa), electrical resistivity (ER) and terrain attributes were used as independent variables. The LDA accurately predicted Apb‐ and Ahb‐horizons (a correct classification of 93%). The LDA of the Hab‐horizon had a misclassification of 24%, which was probably related to the smaller test set and the higher depth of this horizon. The MLR predicted the depth of the Apb‐, Ahb‐ and Hab‐horizons with relative root mean square errors (RMSEs) of 7, 3 and 13%, respectively, in the pseudo‐3D area. MLR had a lower accuracy for the 2D transect compared to the pseudo‐3D area. Overall, the use of LDA and MLR has been an efficient methodological approach for predicting buried horizon positions.

Highlights

The suitability of geoelectrical measurements for digital modelling of diagnostic buried soil horizons was determined.

LDA and MLR were used to detect multiple horizons with geoelectrical devices and terrain attributes.

Geoelectrical variables were significant predictors of the position of the target soil horizons.

The use of these tested digital technologies gives an opportunity to develop high‐resolution soil mapping procedures.
Improving soil aggregation, aggregate‐associated C and N, and enzyme activities by green manure crops in the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Dabin Zhang , Zhiyuan Yao , Jiao Chen , Pengwei Yao , Na Zhao , Wenxiang He , Yangyang Li , Suiqi Zhang , Bingnian Zhai , Zhaohui Wang , Donglin Huang , Weidong Cao , Yajun Gao
Published: May 2019

Green manure and fertilization practices have substantial impacts on soil chemical and biological properties over time. A field experiment was conducted on Cumulic Haplustoll to investigate the effects of leguminous green manure (LGM) crops and nitrogen (N) fertilizer on dry‐stable soil aggregate distributions and stability, the concentrations of organic carbon (OC) and N in the bulk soil and separated aggregate fractions, and soil enzyme activities in dry croplands on the Loess Plateau of China. Species tested as LGM crops were Huai bean (Glycine ussuriensis Regel et Maack.), soybean (G. max (L.) Merr.) and mung bean (Phaseolus radiatus L.). Two rates of N fertilizer (0 and 162 kg N ha−1) applied to winter wheat sown after LGM was incorporated into surface soil. Results showed that the inclusion of LGM crops for 6 years significantly increased the total nitrogen (TN), soil organic carbon (SOC), aggregate‐associated N and OC concentrations, enhanced the values of aggregate content with >0.25 mm size (R0.25) and mean weight diameter (MWD), and boosted soil enzyme (invertase, urease, dehydrogenase and aryl‐sulfatase) activities at the 0–20‐cm depth compared to the bare fallow system under dryland conditions. The long‐term application of N fertilizer substantially increased the proportion of macroaggregates (>5.0 mm), MWD and N contents in the 0.25–5‐mm size aggregates, and promoted the relative activities of invertase, alkaline phosphatase, dehydrogenase and aryl‐sulphatase, but decreased the urease activity. The correlations among macroaggregate fractions and soil chemical properties, aggregate stability and enzyme activities were significant and positive; however, the correlations between small aggregate fractions (<2 mm) and corresponding parameters were negative, or there were no correlations. Overall, combining green manuring practices with suitable N fertilizer application should be recommended to improve the soil quality in dryland regions similar to the Loess Plateau of China.

Highlights

Green manure crops significantly increased soil enzyme activities, SOC and total N contents.

Green manure crops increased macroaggregate (>5 mm) formation and stability.

Application of N fertilizer significantly increased the proportions and stability of macroaggregates.

Green manure crops along with N fertilizer helped to build better soil quality in a dry loess cropland.
Target setting with minimum improving costs in data envelopment analysis: A mixed integer linear programming approach
Authors: Ang Sheng , An Qingxian , Yang Feng , Ji Xiang
Published: May 2019

This study addresses a problem called cost‐minimizing target setting in data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology. The problem is how to make an inefficient decision‐making unit efficient by allocating to it as few organizational resources as possible, assuming that the marginal costs of reducing inputs or increasing outputs are known and available, which is different from previous furthest and closest DEA targets setting methods. In this study, an existed cost minimizing target setting heuristics approach based on input‐oriented model is examined to show that there exist some limitations. This study develops a simple mixed integer linear programming to determine the desired targets on the strongly efficient frontier based on non‐oriented DEA model considering the situation in the presence of known marginal costs of reducing inputs and increasing outputs simultaneously. Some experiments with the simulated datasets are conducted, and results show that the proposed model can obtain more accurate projections with lower costs compared with those from furthest and closest target setting approaches. Besides, the proposed model can be realistic and efficient in solving cost‐minimizing target setting problem.
Biological traits, phylogeny and human footprint signatures on the geographical range size of passerines (OrderPasseriformes) worldwide
Authors: Olalla‐Tárraga Miguel Á. , Amado Talita Ferreira , Bini Luis Mauricio , Martínez Pablo A. , Morales‐Castilla Ignacio , Torres‐Romero Erik Joaquin , Villalobos Fabricio
Published: May 2019

Aim

Many hypotheses exist to explain the astonishing variation in geographical range size across species, but these have rarely been tested under a unifying framework that simultaneously considers direct and indirect effects of ecological niche processes and evolutionary dynamics. Here, we jointly evaluate ecological and evolutionary hypotheses that might account for global interspecific patterns of range size in the most species‐rich avian order: Passeriformes (perching birds).

Location

Global.

Time period

Current.

Major taxa studied

Order Passeriformes.

Methods

We used phylogenetic path analysis to test for the relationship between eight variables and range size. Our list of predictors included a set of niche‐related variables (both Grinellian and Eltonian), species‐specific morphological and life‐history traits (body size, dispersal ability and fertility), extrinsic (human footprint) and evolutionary factors (time since divergence from the closest extant relative).

Results

We found that Grinellian (climatic) and Eltonian (trophic) niche breadth are crucial to account for the observed patterns, followed by reproductive effort (as measured by clutch size). We also found a negative relationship between native range size and human footprint. The significant and positive relationship between niche breadth, either Grinnellian or Eltonian, and range size was consistent across all species, irrespective of their migratory/resident status or taxonomic grouping (Passeri versus Tyranni).

Main conclusions

Globally, the range sizes of passerine species are associated with the Grinellian niche, meaning that species with broader environmental tolerances exhibit larger geographical ranges. These findings give further empirical support to the positive niche breadth–range size relationship as a general pattern in ecology.
The Place of Growth in the Theology of Karl Barth
Authors: Bartholomaeus Michael
Published: May 2019

It is often wondered whether Karl Barth’s doctrine of sanctification preserves space for a sufficient account of growth in the Christian life. Such concerns arise, at least in part, from Barth’s radical claim that the sanctification of all humanity is totally and effectively established in Jesus Christ, a claim that appears to exclude more familiar notions of cumulative regeneration. This essay seeks to complement other responses to this critique by delving into Barth’s most explicit discussion of growth in Church Dogmatics: §67.2 ‘The Growth of the Community’. A close reading of this subsection will demonstrate that Barth can happily employ the language of growth albeit interpreted in light of his understanding of the Christian life as an ongoing encounter with Jesus Christ.
Cappadocian or Augustinian? Adjudicating Debates on Gender in the Resurrection
Authors: do Vale Fellipe
Published: May 2019

When the Apostle Paul inquired about the kind of body with which the dead will be raised (1 Cor. 15:35), he provided warrant for theological speculation with respect to the particulars of the resurrected body. A divergence of views about gender in the resurrection arose as early as the fourth century, with Gregory of Nyssa denying the existence of gender in the eschaton and Augustine of Hippo affirming it. In this article, I adjudicate this debate and its recent retrievals by arguing for the Augustinian position on the grounds that it best coheres with the nature of eschatological justice.
Justified ex nihilo: Retrieving Creation for Theological Anthropology with Luther and Bonhoeffer
Authors: Verhagen Koert
Published: May 2019

This article seeks to articulate a framework for theological anthropology that takes seriously the doctrine of creation, while also remaining christologically grounded and soteriologically informed. Toward this end, I will look briefly at how Martin Luther understands the relationship between justification, anthropology and creation, before turning to the way in which Dietrich Bonhoeffer picks up on Luther’s tripartite, justification‐based definition of the human being. In doing so, Bonhoeffer will help to clarify the essential role that creation plays in grounding and orienting a theological anthropology which seeks to take seriously the soteriological realities of sin and reconciliation.
Fabrication of highly dense three‐layer SiC cladding tube by chemical vapor infiltration method
Authors: Tao Pengfei , Wang Yiguang
Published: May 2019

Three‐layer silicon carbide (SiC) cladding architectures are considered to be promising materials for current light‐water nuclear reactors. Herein, a novel processing approach was proposed to fabricate dense three‐layer SiC tubes by introducing SiC nanowires (NWs) on the graphite rod, which resulted in change in the valley‐peak structure of SiCf tubular preform. A dense three‐layer‐NWs SiC cladding tube, consisting of a chemical vapor infiltration (CVI)‐SiC inner layer, a CVI‐SiCf/SiC composite layer, and a CVI‐SiC outer layer, was obtained through CVI process. Microstructure and hoop strength of the as‐obtained three‐layer‐NWs SiC cladding tube were systematically investigated. By avoiding delamination of the layers and reducing the pores, the three‐layer‐NWs SiC cladding tube exhibited an average hoop strength of 316.6 MPa with a Weibull modulus of 11.55.