bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
5′ untranslated regions: the next regulatory sequence in yeast synthetic biology
Authors: De Nijs Yatti , De Maeseneire Sofie L. , Soetaert Wim K.
Published: December 2019

When developing industrial biotechnology processes, Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast or brewer's yeast) is a popular choice as a microbial host. Many tools have been developed in the fields of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering to introduce heterologous pathways and tune their expression in yeast. Such tools mainly focus on controlling transcription, whereas post‐transcriptional regulation is often overlooked. Herein we discuss regulatory elements found in the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) and their influence on protein synthesis. We provide not only an overall picture, but also a set of design rules on how to engineer a 5′ UTR. The reader is also referred to currently available models that allow gene expression to be tuned predictably using different 5′ UTRs.
Linear pontine trigeminal root lesion in a patient with anti‐myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated encephalitis
Authors: Fujimori Juichi , Nakashima Ichiro
Published: December 2019

Background

Anti‐myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody‐associated encephalitis is a new spectrum of disease entities that includes acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, brainstem encephalitis and cortical encephalitis. Recently, we encountered a case of anti‐MOG antibody‐associated encephalitis in which the patient presented with a linearly shaped lesion at the trigeminal root entry zone, which is one of the well‐known characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in patients with multiple sclerosis. Here, we report this case, as several studies suggested that the reactivation of Herpes simplex viruses contribute to the formation of the linear pontine trigeminal root lesions in multiple sclerosis.

Case presentation

A 39‐year‐old woman was referred to our department because she developed numbness of the left side of her face. She had experienced convulsive seizures of unknown cause 2 years prior. Neurological examination showed left facial hypesthesia (ophthalmic and maxillary divisions). Brain MRI showed a linearly shaped T2/fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense MRI lesion in the pons, which corresponded neuroanatomically with the intramedullary trigeminal root. A live cell‐based assay showed that the patient was positive for serum anti‐MOG antibodies. We diagnosed her with anti‐MOG antibody‐associated encephalitis. Two courses of high‐dose i.v. methylprednisolone were administered. Thereafter, the patient’s neurological symptoms and MRI findings improved.

Conclusions

A linear pontine trigeminal root lesion was observed in a patient with anti‐MOG antibody‐associated encephalitis. The association of herpesviruses requires more attention in the pathogenesis of anti‐MOG antibody‐associated encephalitis.
YAP promotes the proliferation of neuroblastoma cells through decreasing the nuclear location of p27Kip1 mediated by Akt
Authors: Shen Xiya , Xu Xingxing , Xie Changnan , Liu Huitao , Yang Danlu , Zhang Jingjing , Wu Qian , Feng Wenjin , Wang Ling , Du Leilei , Xuan Lina , Meng Chaobo , Zhang Haitao , Wang Wei , Wang Ying , Xie Tian , Huang Zhihui
Published: December 2019

Objective

We aimed to investigate the roles and underlying mechanisms of YAP in the proliferation of neuroblastoma cells.

Methods

The expression level of YAP was evaluated by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. Cell viability, cell proliferation and growth were detected by CCK‐8, PH3 and Ki67 immunostaining, and the real‐time cell analyser system. The nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins of p27Kip1 were dissociated by the nuclear‐cytosol extraction kit and were detected by Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. mRNA levels of Akt, CDK5 and CRM1 were determined by qRT‐PCR.

Results

YAP was enriched in SH‐SY5Y cells (a human neuroblastoma cell line). Knock‐down of YAP in SH‐SY5Y cells or SK‐N‐SH cell line (another human neuroblastoma cell line) significantly decreased cell viability, inhibited cell proliferation and growth. Mechanistically, knock‐down of YAP increased the nuclear location of p27Kip1, whereas serum‐induced YAP activation decreased the nuclear location of p27Kip1 and was required for cell proliferation. Meanwhile, overexpression of YAP in these serum‐starved SH‐SY5Y cells decreased the nuclear location of p27Kip1, promoted cell proliferation and overexpression of p27Kip1 in YAP‐activated cells inhibited cell proliferation. Furthermore, knock‐down of YAP reduced Akt mRNA and protein levels. Overexpression of Akt in YAP‐downregulated cells decreased the nuclear location of p27Kip1 and accelerated the proliferation of SH‐SY5Y cells.

Conclusions

Our studies suggest that YAP promotes the proliferation of neuroblastoma cells through negatively controlling the nuclear location of p27Kip1 mediated by Akt.
Factors predicting in‐hospital mortality among patients admitted with community acquired pneumonia at a tertiary care hospital Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Nousheen , Irfan Muhammad , Siddique Faraz , Arshad Verda , Zubairi Ali Bin Sarwar
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality globally, but unfortunately there is limited data available from South East Asia.

Objective

To determine the risk factors associated with in‐hospital mortality in patients with CAP in a tertiary care hospital of Pakistan.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on adult patients admitted with a diagnosis of CAP from January 2011 till December 2016. Their clinical records were reviewed and a multivariable analysis was done to determine the factors associated with in‐hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 1100 files were reviewed, of which 509 were included in the analysis. The mean age was 63.6 ± 16.5 years and 302 (52.16%) were males. The most Common isolated pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus (23%). Overall mortality was 10.8%. On univariate analysis factors associated with mortality were old age patients (P = 0.02); history of pneumonia in last 12 months (P = 0.008); CURB 65 score ≥ 3 (P < 0.001) and high dependency units as initial site of care (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis CURB65 ≥ 3 score; high dependency unit as initial site of care; bedridden status; presence of bilateral infiltrates on chest X‐ray and hemoglobin of 10.4 g/dL or less at the time of admission were key determinants of in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusion

We found CURB65 ≥ 3 score; high dependency unit as initial site of care; bedridden status; bilateral infiltrates on chest X‐ray and low hemoglobin (10.4 g/dL or less) at the time of admission as independent risk factors of in‐hospital mortality. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated in patients.
What happens to local participation when national ownership gets stronger? Initiating an exploration in Rwanda and Cambodia
Authors: Hasselskog Malin
Published: December 2019

Motivation

“Local participation” and “national ownership” are widely endorsed ideals in development discourse and practice. With the former referring to people’s active involvement in development‐related activities with some form of external input, and the latter to aid‐recipient countries’ policy independence in relation to foreign funders, both are concerned with the inherent inequality of aid relationships. In development policy, the two also tend to be used interchangeably and in combination, apparently assumed to go hand in hand, with increased national ownership expected to be conducive to local participation.

Purpose

This article problematizes such usage and assumptions, and initiates a more elaborate discussion of possible interlinkages between local participation and national ownership, with the aim of contributing to a more nuanced understanding of what may happen to local participation in situations of increased national ownership.

Approach and Methods

It does so by depicting the trajectories and development of local participation and national ownership, by problematizing some expressions of intermingling and assumed links, and by discussing patterns of national ownership and local participation in Rwanda and Cambodia, all based on official documents, available data and others’ as well as own research.

Findings

Connecting two key concepts and major approaches in development policy, the article points to multiple possible interlinkages, including the possibility that national ownership in certain forms may undermine local participation, and to the need to further investigate the more complex interrelations that are likely to prevail between the two.

Policy implications

Such investigations will contribute to a better understanding of the prospects for different sorts of local participation in different situations of national ownership, and shed light on the difference it may make locally that a country’s development agenda is primarily domestically owned rather than donor driven. By problematizing widely held assumptions, unanimously endorsed aspects of current aid architecture can be reconsidered.
BAD NEWS FROM THE FRONT AND FROM ABOVE: BOMBING RAIDS, MILITARY FATALITIES AND THE DEATH PENALTY IN NAZI GERMANY
Authors: Geerling Wayne , Magee Gary , Raschky Paul A. , Smyth Russell
Published: December 2019

We examine how the decision‐making of political elites respond to an imminent external threat to the existence of the state in times of war. To do so, we exploit exogeneous variation in exposure to battle deaths and bombing raids to estimate the effect of variation in the intensity of war on the probability that individuals charged with treason and/or high treason in Nazi Germany received the death sentence. A doubling of the number of military fatalities as well as bombing raids in the same week in which a defendant was sentenced increased the likelihood of receiving the death penalty by about 10 percentage points. (JEL K14, N44)
The impact of a hydroelectric dam on Neotropical fish communities: A spatio‐temporal analysis of the Trophic Upsurge Hypothesis
Authors: Monaghan Kieran A. , Agostinho Carlos S. , Pelicice Fernando M. , Soares Amadeu M. V. M.
Published: December 2019

We employed the trophic upsurge hypothesis as an analytical framework to describe the response of Neotropical fish communities to terrestrial inundation associated with river damming. Data were collected for the impact assessment of the Peixe Angical Dam, Tocantins River, Brazil. Monthly surveys were conducted at nine sites (seven upstream, two downstream) from 15 months before to 20 months after dam closure and a follow‐up survey 60–83 months after closure. Fish responses differed in timing and magnitude across sites. In the new reservoir, populations peaked 8–13 months after flooding, demonstrating increases in richness (84 ± 52%), biomass (329 ± 266%) and abundance (681 ± 348%) with the maxima for richness and abundance tending to precede biomass maxima. Populations of all families increased but were greatest for Engraulidae, Hemiodontidae, Serrasalmidae and Characidae, and lower for the benthic catfish: Sciaenidae, Dorididae, Pimelodidae. Downstream populations peaked 5–12 months after closure or showed consistent decline. Five years after dam‐closure richness and abundance were lower compared to predam levels, with populations at all sites demonstrating an ongoing decline. Reservoir creation triggers reproductive recruitment and otherwise pools spatially disparate populations from across the flooded valley. If the rise in richness is largely explained by the increased catchability of species otherwise present prior to flooding, it may be more appropriate to estimate species loss with reference to upsurge data. As peak biomass coincides with declining richness, modelling fisheries production from annually aggregated data may risk overestimating the potential for sustainable harvests. Upsurge–response curves can help identify the timing of critical ecological thresholds for flood‐managed fisheries.
Highly reduced survival in essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera patients with vascular complications during follow‐up
Authors: Ahlstrand Erik , Samuelsson Jan , Lindgren Marie , Pettersson Helna , Liljeholm Maria , Ravn‐Landtblom Anna , Scheding Stefan , Andréasson Björn
Published: December 2019

Objective

To explore the relative importance of risk factors, treatments, and blood counts for the occurrence of vascular complications and their impact on life expectancy in essential thrombocythemia (ET) and polycythemia vera (PV).

Methods

Nested case‐control study within the Swedish MPN registry. From a cohort of 922 ET patients and 763 PV patients, 71 ET and 81 PV cases with vascular complications were compared with matched controls.

Results

Incidence of vascular complications was 2.0 and 3.4 events per 100 patient‐years in ET and PV, respectively. At diagnosis, no significant risk factor differences were observed between cases and controls in neither of the diseases. At the time of vascular event, ET complication cases did not differ significantly from controls but in PV, cases had significantly higher WBCs and were to a lesser extent treated with anti‐thrombotic and cytoreductive therapy. Life expectancy was significantly decreased in both ET and PV cases compared with controls.

Conclusions

The risk of vascular complications is high in both ET and PV, and these complications have a considerable impact on life expectancy. The protective effect of anti‐thrombotic and cytoreductive therapy for vascular complications in PV underscores the importance of avoiding undertreatment.
Nucleus accumbens shell dopamine mediates outcome value, but not predicted value, in a magnitude decision‐making task
Authors: Sackett Deirdre A. , Moschak Travis M. , Carelli Regina M.
Published: December 2019

Effective decision‐making depends on an animal's ability to predict and select the outcome of greatest value, and the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and its dopaminergic input play a key role in this process. We previously reported that rapid dopamine release in the NAc shell preferentially tracks the “preferred” (i.e., large reward) option during cues that predict the ability to respond for rewards of different sizes, as well as during reward delivery itself. The present study assessed whether shell dopamine release at these discrete times selectively mediated choice behavior for rewards of different magnitudes using optogenetics. Here, using Long Evans TH:Cre± rats we employed selective optogenetic stimulation of dopamine terminals in the NAc shell during either reward‐predictive cues (experiment 1) or reward delivery (experiment 2) in a magnitude‐based decision‐making task. We found that in TH:Cre± rats, but not littermate controls, optical stimulation during low‐magnitude reward delivery during forced choice trials was sufficient to bias preference for this option when given a choice. In contrast, optical stimulation of shell dopamine terminals during low‐magnitude reward‐predictive cues in forced choice trials did not shift free choice behavior in TH:Cre± rats or controls. The findings indicate that preferential dopamine signaling in the NAc shell during reward outcome (delivery), but not reward‐predictive cues are sufficient to influence choice behavior in our task supporting a causal role of dopamine in the NAc shell in reward outcome value, but not value‐based predictive strategies.
Effects of acepromazine and xylazine on subjective and objective assessments of forelimb lameness
Authors: Morgan Jessica M. , Ross Michael W. , Levine David G. , Stefanovski Darko , You Youwen , Robinson Mary A. , Davidson Elizabeth J.
Published: December 2019

Background

To facilitate lameness evaluation, sedatives such as xylazine and acepromazine are regularly used in the clinical setting, despite concerns that they may confound lameness assessment.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of low doses of acepromazine and xylazine on subjective and objective lameness assessment.

Study design

Randomised, blinded, crossover study.

Methods

Six horses with experimentally induced solar pain were evaluated over a 1‐hour period after treatment with intravenous xylazine (0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg), intravenous acepromazine (0.02 or 0.04 mg/kg), intravenous saline (1 mL) or local analgesia (4 mL 2% mepivacaine administered subcutaneously). Lameness was assessed objectively with inertial sensors and subjectively on a scale from 0 to 5. Lameness assessments were compared with logistic regression analysis to account for the repeated measures and cross‐over study design (P < .05).

Results

Xylazine (0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg) or acepromazine (0.02 and 0.04 mg/kg) did not result in significant differences in objective lameness assessment (vector sum) or average subjective lameness grade. Local analgesia was associated with a decrease in subjective lameness grade (OR 0.32 [0.11‐0.92], P = .03). Objective measures of lameness (vector sum) were significantly decreased 45 minutes (vector sum 41.8, P = .04) and 60 minutes (vector sum 47.3, P = .03) following local analgesia administration compared with baseline (vector sum 121.4).

Main limitations

Extrapolation of the experimental model of moderate lameness used in this study to broad range of clinical lameness situations should be performed carefully.

Conclusions

These results support the use of low doses of xylazine or acepromazine to facilitate forelimb lameness evaluation up to 1 hour in duration.
High bacterial colonization and lipase activity in microcomedones
Authors: Josse Gwendal , Mias Céline , Le Digabel Jimmy , Filiol Jérôme , Ipinazar Célia , Villaret Aurélie , Gomiero Caroline , Bevilacqua Marc , Redoules Daniel , Nocera Thérèse , Saurat Jean-Hilaire , Gontier Etienne
Published: December 2019

Background

Although acne vulgaris has a multifactorial aetiology, comedogenesis and bacteria colonization of the pilosebaceous unit are known to play a major role in the onset of inflammatory acne lesions. However, many aspects remain poorly understood such as where and when is the early stage of the Propionibacterium acnes colonization in follicular unit? Our research aimed at providing a precise analysis of microcomedone's structure to better understand the interplay between Propionibacterium acnes and follicular units, and therefore, the role of its interplay in the formation of acne lesions.

Methods

Microcomedones were sampled using cyanoacrylate skin surface stripping (CSSS). Their morphology was investigated with multiphoton imaging and their ultrastructure with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Bacterial lipase activity in the microcomedones was quantified using a dedicated enzymatic test as well as a Fourier Transform Infra‐Red (FTIR) analysis. The porphyrin produced by bacteria was analysed with HPTLC and fluorescence spectroscopy.

Results

The imaging analysis showed that microcomedones' structure resembles a pouch, whose interior is mostly composed of lipids with clusters of bacteria and whose outer shell is made up of corneocyte layers. The extensive bacteria colonization is clearly visible using TEM. Even after sampling, clear lipase activity was still seen in the microcomedone. A high correlation, r = .85, was observed between porphyrin content measured with HPTLC and with fluorescence spectroscopy. These observations show that microcomedones, which are generally barely visible clinically, already contain a bacterial colonization.
Low copper availability limits Helicobacter infection in mice
Authors: Esposito Roberta , Vllahu Megi , Morello Silvana , Baldantoni Daniela , Bellino Alessandro , Petrella Antonello , Eletto Daniela , Porta Amalia , Tosco Alessandra
Published: December 2019

Copper is an essential element for all living organisms; however, it becomes toxic at high concentrations due to its ability to participate in many redox reactions. This vital micronutrient balance plays an important role in the battle between host and pathogen, due to its use by the host to intoxicate pathogens. In this study, we explore the effects of copper deprivation on Helicobacter infection in mice using the copper chelator tetrathiomolybdate. Our results reveal that Helicobacter infection significantly reduces copper concentration in mice stomachs without affecting its circulating levels. Moreover, in copper‐deprived mice, bacteria hardly colonize the epithelium and mice show less gastric damage in comparison with the infected ones. However, when the copper chelator is administered after infection, the condition of the mouse stomachs declines. This could be explained by the lower copper availability in tetrathiomolybdate‐treated mice, which would reduce macrophages' action against the pathogen. In this scenario, we observe that the protective factor trefoil factor 1 is induced upon copper‐deprived conditions, probably contributing to the inefficacy of infection, whereas, when the chelator is administered after infection, the gene is already silenced by bacteria and cannot be restored. In conclusion, our data suggest that Helicobacter takes advantage of gastric copper reducing its availability for the host and that copper levels have an impact on the outcome of infection.
A multivariate approach reveals diversity of ontogenetic niche shifts across taxonomic and functional groups
Authors: Rudolf Volker H. W.
Published: December 2019

Shifts in the fundamental and realised niche of individuals during their ontogeny are ubiquitous in nature, but we know little about what aspects of the niche change and how these changes vary across species within communities. However, this knowledge is essential to predict the dynamics of populations and communities and how they respond to environmental change.

Here I introduce a range of metrics to describe different aspects of shifts in the realised trophic niche of individuals based on stable isotopes. Applying this multi‐variate approach to 2,272 individuals from 13 taxonomic and functional distinct species (Amphibia, Hemiptera, Coleoptera, Odonata) sampled in natural pond communities allowed me to: (1) describe and quantify the diversity of trophic niche shift patterns over ontogeny in multi‐dimensional space, and (2) identify what aspects of ontogenetic shifts vary across taxa, and functional groups.

Results revealed that species can differ substantially in which aspects of the trophic niche change and how they change over ontogeny. Interestingly, patterns of ontogenetic niche shifts grouped in distinct taxonomic clusters in multi‐variate space, including two distinct groups of predators (Hemiptera versus Odonata). Given the differences in traits (especially feeding mode) across groups, this suggests that differences in ontogenetic niche shifts across species could at least partially be explained by variation in traits and functional roles of species.

These results emphasise the importance of a multivariate approach to capture the large diversity of trophic niche shifts patterns possible in natural communities and suggest that differences in ontogenetic niche shifts follow general patterns.
Soil GHG fluxes are altered by N deposition: New data indicate lower N stimulation of the N2O flux and greater stimulation of the calculated C pools
Authors: Deng Lei , Huang Chunbo , Kim Dong‐Gill , Shangguan Zhouping , Wang Kaibo , Song Xinzhang , Peng Changhui
Published: December 2019

The effects of nitrogen (N) deposition on soil organic carbon (C) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in terrestrial ecosystems are the main drivers affecting GHG budgets under global climate change. Although many studies have been conducted on this topic, we still have little understanding of how N deposition affects soil C pools and GHG budgets at the global scale. We synthesized a comprehensive dataset of 275 sites from multiple terrestrial ecosystems around the world and quantified the responses of the global soil C pool and GHG fluxes induced by N enrichment. The results showed that the soil organic C concentration and the soil CO2, CH4 and N2O emissions increased by an average of 3.7%, 0.3%, 24.3% and 91.3% under N enrichment, respectively, and that the soil CH4 uptake decreased by 6.0%. Furthermore, the percentage increase in N2O emissions (91.3%) was two times lower than that (215%) reported by Liu and Greaver (Ecology Letters, 2009, 12:1103–1117). There was also greater stimulation of soil C pools (15.70 kg C ha−1 year−1 per kg N ha−1 year−1) than previously reported under N deposition globally. The global N deposition results showed that croplands were the largest GHG sources (calculated as CO2 equivalents), followed by wetlands. However, forests and grasslands were two important GHG sinks. Globally, N deposition increased the terrestrial soil C sink by 6.34 Pg CO2/year. It also increased net soil GHG emissions by 10.20 Pg CO2‐Geq (CO2 equivalents)/year. Therefore, N deposition not only increased the size of the soil C pool but also increased global GHG emissions, as calculated by the global warming potential approach.
Exploring the Use of Computer Vision Metrics for Spatial Pattern Comparison
Authors: Malik Karim , Robertson Colin
Published: December 2019

Detection of changes in spatial processes has long been of interest to quantitative geographers seeking to test models, validate theories, and anticipate change. Given the current “data‐rich” environment of today, it may be time to reconsider the methodological approaches used for quantifying change in spatial processes. New tools emerging from computer vision research may hold particular potential to make significant advances in quantifying changes in spatial processes. In this article, two comparative indices from computer vision, the structural similarity (SSIM) index, and the complex wavelet structural similarity (CWSSIM) index were examined for their utility in the comparison of real and simulated spatial data sets. Gaussian Markov random fields were simulated and compared with both metrics. A case study into comparison of snow water equivalent spatial patterns over northern Canada was used to explore the properties of these indices on real‐world data. CWSSIM was found to be less sensitive than SSIM to changing window dimension. The CWSSIM appears to have significant potential in characterizing change and/or similarity; distinguishing between map pairs that possess subtle structural differences. Further research is required to explore the utility of these approaches for empirical comparison cases of different forms of landscape change and in comparison to human judgments of spatial pattern differences.
Identifying configurations of multiple co‐located clusters by analyzing within‐ and between‐cluster linkages
Authors: Bathelt Harald , Zhao Jingyuan
Published: December 2019

The Beijing economy has an unusual industrial configuration consisting of multiple industry parks in the biomedical industry with a cluster‐like structure, specifically Yizhuang Park, Daxing Park, and ZLS (Zhongguancun Life Science) Park. If these industry parks can indeed be conceptualized as clusters, a number of questions arise regarding their collaborative or competitive relationships that can potentially be both beneficial and detrimental. We begin analyzing this case of three biomedical industry clusters by conceptualizing four ideal‐type scenarios of co‐located cluster configurations and identifying their within‐cluster and between‐cluster linkage patterns. Based on a relational research design, we develop a simple testing procedure that allows us to identify the specific empirical cluster configuration at hand. Based on a survey of labor market, government event, research, and production linkages of 164 firms in the three biomedical industry parks, we conduct statistical tests and conclude that Beijing represents a case of three collaborating clusters, with some elements of integration.
Improved visualization of a fine intrahepatic biliary duct on drip infusion cholangiography‐computed tomography: Impact of knowledge‐based iterative model reconstruction
Authors: Takao Seiichiro , Nishie Akihiro , Asayama Yoshiki , Ishigami Kousei , Ushijima Yasuhiro , Kakihara Daisuke , Nakayama Tomohiro , Fujita Nobuhiro , Morita Koichiro , Ishimatsu Keisuke , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Ikegami Toru , Kondo Masatoshi , Honda Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

Aim

The purpose of this study was to investigate the visualization of fine biliary ducts with knowledge‐based iterative model reconstruction (IMR) in low‐dose drip infusion computed tomography (CT) cholangiography (DIC‐CT) as compared with filtered back projection (FBP) and hybrid iterative reconstruction (iDose4).

Methods

A total of 38 patients underwent DIC‐CT for living donor liver transplantation. CT was performed approximately 20 min after the end of the infusion of meglumine iotroxate (100 mL). Images were reconstructed using FBP, iDose4, and IMR, and 1‐mm slice images at fixed window level and width were prepared for assessment. Two reviewers independently evaluated the quality of visualization of the fine biliary ducts of the caudate lobe (B1) using a 5‐point scale. The visualization scores of three reconstructed images were compared using the Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results

For reviewer 1, the visualization score of IMR was significantly higher than that of FBP (P = 0.012), and tended to be higher than that of iDose4 (P = 0.078). For reviewer 2, the visualization score of IMR was significantly higher than those of both FBP and iDose4 (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

IMR showed better visualization of B1 on DIC‐CT than FBP or iDose4. DIC‐CT reconstructed with IMR may be useful to the anatomical grasp of biliary tracts in cases of hepatectomy.
Living with bipolar disorder in Chile: A qualitative study
Authors: Hormazábal‐Salgado Raúl , Poblete‐Troncoso Margarita
Published: December 2019

Bipolar disorder (BD) is an important factor contributing to rates of higher morbidity and mortality with serious consequences on the quality of life. There is limited literature on life experience of people living with BD in Chile. For this reason, this study examines the life experiences of Chilean clients with BD. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted, and clients aged 40‐65 years, euthymic, with a preserved judgement of reality were included. A thematic analysis was conducted, and two themes and subthemes were extracted. The first theme is the life experiences of the disease, and it comprises the subtheme information about BD, life experiences of relapses (with acute experiences of disease, professional assistance, and prodromal symptom management), accepting the disease, accepting the medication, and being bipolar as a stigma. The second theme is that of family environment, which includes the subthemes of family support, lack of family support, and family crisis resulting from BD. The findings provide evidence to support the importance of accepting the disease, the long‐term course of the disease, in addition to pharmacological treatment, which requires interventions from nurses when personal risk factors of acute episodes are identified and addressed. Besides, client and family members have to be actively involved. Future research should examine the relationship between stigma from bipolar disorder, perceptions from family members, and educational interventions from nurses and people affected by BD in Chile.
It is not just what you say, but how you say it: A case study exploring union‐member communications
Authors: Smith Christopher , Duxbury Linda
Published: December 2019

This paper presents key findings from a multimethod study analysing the communication practices of a large American labour union through a generational cohort lens. Survey data were used to compare how the union communicates information to its members with how participants would like to receive this information. Interview data were analyzed to help us better understand union members' perceptions of their union's communication practices and how these could be improved. This research determined that union members wanted the union to make more of an effort to use face‐to‐face communication practices. Younger union members want their union to make more use of electronic communication technologies.
Biological approaches for hypertrophic scars
Authors: Lingzhi Zhong , Meirong Li , Xiaobing Fu
Published: December 2019

Scar formation is usually the pathological consequence of skin trauma. And hypertrophic scars (HSs) frequently occur in people after being injured deeply. HSs are unusually considered as the result of tissue contraction and excessive extracellular matrix component deposition. Myofibroblasts, as the effector cells, mainly differentiated from fibroblasts, play the crucial role in the pathophysiology of HSs. A number of growth factors, inflammatory cytokines involved in the process of HS occurrence. Currently, with in‐depth exploration and clinical research of HSs, various creative and effective treatments budded. In here, we summarize the progress in the molecular mechanism of HSs, and review the available biotherapeutic methods for their pathophysiological characteristics. Additionally, we further prospected that the comprehensive therapy may be more suitable for HS treatment.
Utilizing TiO2 amorphous precursors for polymorph selection: An in situ TEM study of phase formation and kinetics
Authors: Mangum John S. , Garten Lauren M. , Ginley David S. , Gorman Brian P.
Published: December 2019

Selective synthesis of metastable polymorphs requires a fundamental understanding of the complex energy landscapes in which these phases form. Recently, the development of in situ high temperature and controlled atmosphere transmission electron microscopy has enabled the direct observation of nucleation, growth, and phase transformations with near atomic resolution. In this work, we directly observe the crystallization behavior of amorphous TiO2 thin films grown under different pulsed laser deposition conditions and quantify the mechanisms behind metastable crystalline polymorph stabilization. Films deposited at 10 mTorr chamber oxygen pressure crystallize into nanocrystalline Anatase at 325°C, whereas films deposited at 2 mTorr crystallize into significantly larger needle‐like grains of Brookite and Anatase at 270°C. Increasing film deposition rate by a factor of 4 results in a 10× increase in the crystalline growth front velocity as well as a decrease in crystallization temperature from 270°C to 225°C. Engineering the amorphous precursor state through deposition conditions therefore provides routes to microstructure control and the accessibility of higher energy metastable phases.
Profit shifting and tax‐rate uncertainty
Authors: Delis Manthos D. , Hasan Iftekhar , Karavitis Panagiotis I.
Published: December 2019

Using firm‐level data for 1,084 parent firms in 24 countries and for 9,497 subsidiaries in 54 countries, we show that tax‐motivated profit shifting is larger among subsidiaries in countries that have stable corporate tax rates over time. Our findings further suggest that firms move away from transfer pricing and toward intragroup debt shifting that has lower adjustment costs. Our results are robust to several identification methods and respecifications, and they highlight the important role of tax‐rate uncertainty in the profit‐shifting decision while pointing to an adjustment away from more costly transfer pricing and toward debt shifting.
Relationship between polycomb‐group protein BMI‐1 and phosphatases regulating AKT phosphorylation level in endometrial cancer
Authors: Zaczek Agnieszka , Jóźwiak Paweł , Ciesielski Piotr , Forma Ewa , Wójcik‐Krowiranda Katarzyna , Cwonda Łukasz , Bieńkiewicz Andrzej , Bryś Magdalena , Krześlak Anna
Published: December 2019

The PI3K/AKT pathway is frequently activated in endometrial carcinoma. BMI‐1 (B‐lymphoma Mo‐MLV insertion region 1) protein affects expression of PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog) in some cancers, but its significance for endometrial tumorigenesis is not known. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between BMI‐1 and expression of factors affecting AKT (protein kinase B) phosphorylation level in endometrial cancer. The expression of proteins and mRNAs was investigated in endometrial cancer specimens and samples of non‐neoplastic endometrial tissue by Western blot and RT‐PCR, respectively. The impact of BMI‐1 down‐regulation on AKT phosphorylation and expression of genes coding for several phosphatases were studied in HEC1A cells. The results showed that BMI‐1 depletion caused increase in PHLPP1 and PHLPP2 (PH domain and leucine‐rich repeat protein phosphatases 1/2) expression and decrease in phospho‐AKT (pAKT) level. In more advanced tumours with higher metastatic potential, the expression of BMI‐1 was lower compared to tumours less advanced and without lymph node metastasis. There were significant inverse correlations between BMI‐1 and PHLPPs, especially PHLPP1 in normal endometrial samples. The inverse correlation between BMI‐1 and PHLPP1/PHLPP2 expression was observed in PTEN positive but not PTEN negative cancers. Low PHLPP2 expression in tumours predicted poorer overall survival. BMI‐1 impacts on AKT phosphorylation level in endometrial cells by regulation of PHLPP expression.
Optimized monoclonal antibody treatment against ELTD1 for GBM in a G55 xenograft mouse model
Authors: Zalles Michelle , Smith Nataliya , Ziegler Jadith , Saunders Debra , Remerowski Shannon , Thomas Lincy , Gulej Rafal , Mamedova Nadya , Lerner Megan , Fung Kar‐Ming , Chung Junho , Hwang Kyusang , Jin Junyeong , Wiley Graham , Brown Chase , Battiste James , Wren Jonathan D. , Towner Rheal A.
Published: December 2019

Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain tumour found in adults, and the therapeutic approaches available have not significantly increased patient survival. Recently, we discovered that ELTD1, an angiogenic biomarker, is highly expressed in human gliomas. Polyclonal anti‐ELTD1 treatments were effective in glioma pre‐clinical models, however, pAb binding is potentially promiscuous. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of an optimized monoclonal anti‐ELTD1 treatment in G55 xenograft glioma models. MRI was used to assess the effects of the treatments on animal survival, tumour volumes, perfusion rates and binding specificity. Immunohistochemistry and histology were conducted to confirm and characterize microvessel density and Notch1 levels, and to locate the molecular probes. RNA‐sequencing was used to analyse the effects of the mAb treatment. Our monoclonal anti‐ELTD1 treatment significantly increased animal survival, reduced tumour volumes, normalized the vasculature and showed higher binding specificity within the tumour compared with both control‐ and polyclonal‐treated mice. Notch1 positivity staining and RNA‐seq results suggested that ELTD1 has the ability to interact with and interrupt Notch1 signalling. Although little is known about ELTD1, particularly about its ligand and pathways, our data suggest that our monoclonal anti‐ELTD1 antibody is a promising anti‐angiogenic therapeutic in glioblastomas.
Osa‐miR1873 fine‐tunes rice immunity against Magnaporthe oryzae and yield traits
Authors: Zhou Shi‐Xin , Zhu Yong , Wang Liang‐Fang , Zheng Ya‐Ping , Chen Jin‐Feng , Li Ting‐Ting , Yang Xue‐Mei , Wang He , Li Xu‐Pu , Ma Xiao‐Chun , Zhao Ji‐Qun , Pu Mei , Feng Hui , Li Yan , Fan Jing , Zhang Ji‐Wei , Huang Yan‐Yan , Wang Wen‐Ming
Published: December 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to fine‐tune growth, development, and stress‐induced responses. Osa‐miR1873 is a rice‐specific miRNA targeting LOC_Os05g01790. Here, we show that Osa‐miR1873 fine‐tunes rice immunity against Magnaporthe oryzae and yield traits via LOC_Os05g01790. Osa‐miR1873 was significantly upregulated in a susceptible accession but downregulated in a resistance accession at 24 h post‐inoculation (hpi) of M. oryzae. Overexpressing Osa‐miR1873 enhanced susceptibility to M. oryzae and compromised induction of defense responses. In contrast, blocking Osa‐miR1873 through target mimicry compromised susceptibility to M. oryzae and enhanced induction of defense responses. Altered expression of Osa‐miR1873 also resulted in some defects in yield traits, including grain numbers and seed setting rate. Moreover, overexpression of the target gene LOC_Os05g01790 increased rice blast disease resistance but severely penalized growth and yield. Taken together, we demonstrate that Osa‐miR1873 fine‐tunes the rice immunity‐growth trade‐off via LOC_Os05g01790, and blocking Osa‐miR1873 could improve blast disease resistance without significant yield penalty. Thus, the Osa‐miR1873‐LOC_Os05g01790 regulatory module is valuable in balancing yield traits and blast resistance.
Dissociation of the subjective and objective bodies: Out‐of‐body experiences following the development of a posterior cingulate lesion
Authors: Hiromitsu Kentaro , Shinoura Nobusada , Yamada Ryoji , Midorikawa Akira
Published: December 2019

An out‐of‐body experience (OBE) is a phenomenon whereby an individual views his/her body and the world from a location outside the physical body. Previous studies have suggested that the temporoparietal junction (TPJ), the brain region responsible for integrating multisensory signals, is responsible for OBE development. Here, however, we first present a case of OBE after brain tumour development in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). The patient was a 46‐year‐old right‐handed female; she underwent brain surgery. She reported that she had experienced OBEs several times monthly (during daily life) before surgery but never after surgery. She defined her OBEs explicitly; she drew pictures. Her OBEs exhibited phenomenological, overt dissociation of the subjective and objective bodies. We discuss the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon and the relationship between OBEs and the PCC in terms of anatomical and functional brain connectivity. Our case sheds some light on the mechanism involved in creating spatial (dis)unity between the self and the body.
The Business Model of Social Banks
Authors: Cornée Simon , Kalmi Panu , Szafarz Ariane
Published: December 2019

Based on an extensive literature review, this paper proposes to define social banks (SBs) as social enterprises that run banking activities with the social mission of supplying credit to other social enterprises, which are typically less profitable than for‐profit businesses. This definition marks our starting point for developing a theoretical framework to explain how SBs survive without subsidies in the banking market. We build on a two‐pillar business model of value‐based financial intermediation, which comprises an ownership structure that limits residual ownership claims and preferential credit conditions associated with financial sacrifices from motivated depositors. We also clarify the link between SBs and stakeholder banks and weigh up the importance of market interest rates for facilitating the business of SBs. An empirical analysis based on panel regressions on 5,400 European banks over the 1998‐2013 period attests to the relevance of our theoretical framework. It also confirms that a low interest rate environment raises concerns about the sustainability of the SB business model.
Higher seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus in autoimmune hepatitis: Role of false‐positive antibodies
Authors: Llovet Laura‐Patricia , Gratacós‐Ginés Jordi , Ortiz Oswaldo , Rodriguez‐Tajes Sergio , Lens Sabela , Reverter Enric , Ruiz‐Ortiz Estibaliz , Costa Josep , Viñas Odette , Forns Xavier , Parés Albert , Londoño María‐Carlota
Published: December 2019

Background and aims

Recent studies have found an increase in the seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). We aimed to assess the prevalence of positive anti‐HEV IgM and IgG, and HEV‐RNA in a cohort of patients with AIH, to determine the impact of positive HEV serology on patient outcome, and to evaluate the role of hypergammaglobulinemia and positive autoantibodies in the presence of positive anti‐HEV serology.

Methods

One hundred and five patients tested for HEV infection between 2014 and 2018 were included in the study: 50 with chronic AIH (more than 1 year on treatment), and 55 with an acute hepatitis (30 patients with acute AIH and 25 with non‐AIH).

Results

Seroprevalence of HEV was higher in patients with acute AIH (17% vs 10% in patients with chronic AIH and 8% in patients with non‐AIH). Patients with acute AIH and positive anti‐HEV IgG were older (58 vs 40; P = .006), had higher IgG levels (27 g/dL vs 13 g/dL; P = .03) and antismooth muscle antibodies (ASMA) titres (1:160 vs 1:80; P = .045), and were more likely to have another autoimmune disease (60% vs 16%; P = .03). At the time of HEV testing, anti‐HEV IgG positive patients had significantly higher serum IgG levels (17 g/L vs 11 g/L; P = .009), ANA (1:160 vs 1:60; P = .026) and ASMA titres (1:80 vs 1:40; P = .021).

Conclusion

Seroprevalence of HEV in patients with AIH in Catalonia does not differ from that of the general population. The higher HEV seroprevalence in patients with acute AIH with higher levels of gammaglobulins and high antibody titres suggest the presence of cross‐reactivity between HEV and liver antigens.
The microbiota influences the Drosophila melanogaster life history strategy
Authors: Walters Amber W. , Hughes Rachel C. , Call Tanner B. , Walker Carson J. , Wilcox Hailey , Petersen Samara C. , Rudman Seth M. , Newell Peter D. , Douglas Angela E. , Schmidt Paul S. , Chaston John M.
Published: December 2019

Organisms are locally adapted when members of a population have a fitness advantage in one location relative to conspecifics in other geographies. For example, across latitudinal gradients, some organisms may trade off between traits that maximize fitness components in one, but not both, of somatic maintenance or reproductive output. Latitudinal gradients in life history strategies are traditionally attributed to environmental selection on an animal's genotype, without any consideration of the possible impact of associated microorganisms (“microbiota”) on life history traits. Here, we show in Drosophila melanogaster, a key model for studying local adaptation and life history strategy, that excluding the microbiota from definitions of local adaptation is a major shortfall. First, we reveal that an isogenic fly line reared with different bacteria varies the investment in early reproduction versus somatic maintenance. Next, we show that in wild fruit flies, the abundance of these same bacteria was correlated with the latitude and life history strategy of the flies, suggesting geographic specificity of the microbiota composition. Variation in microbiota composition of locally adapted D. melanogaster could be attributed to both the wild environment and host genetic selection. Finally, by eliminating or manipulating the microbiota of fly lines collected across a latitudinal gradient, we reveal that host genotype contributes to latitude‐specific life history traits independent of the microbiota and that variation in the microbiota can suppress or reverse the differences between locally adapted fly lines. Together, these findings establish the microbiota composition of a model animal as an essential consideration in local adaptation.