bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality-adjusted Life Years (QALY) for 15 Chronic Conditions and Combinations of Conditions Among US Adults Aged 65 and Older
Authors: Jia Haomiao , Lubetkin Erica I. , Barile John P. , Horner-Johnson Willi , DeMichele Kimberly , Stark Debra S. , Zack Matthew M. , Thompson William W.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Although the life expectancy for the US population has increased, a high proportion of this population has lived with ≥1 chronic conditions. We have quantified the burden of disease associated with 15 chronic conditions and combinations of conditions by estimating quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for older US adults.

Research Design:

Data were from the Medicare Health Outcomes Survey Cohort 15 (baseline survey in 2012, follow-up survey 2014, with mortality follow-up through January 31, 2015). We included individuals aged 65 years and older (n=96,481). We estimated mean QALY throughout the remainder of the lifetime according to the occurrence of these conditions.

Results:

The age-adjusted QALY was 5.8 years for men and 7.8 years for women. Over 90% respondents reported at least 1 condition and 72% reported multiple conditions. Respondents with depression and congestive heart failure had the lowest age-adjusted QALY (1.1–1.5 y for men and 1.5–2.2 y for women), whereas those with hypertension, arthritis, and sciatica had higher QALY (4.2–5.4 and 6.4–7.2 y, respectively). Having either depression or congestive heart failure and any 1 or 2 of the other 13 conditions was associated with the lowest QALY among the possible dyads and triads of chronic conditions. Dyads and triads with hypertension or arthritis were more prevalent, but had higher QALY.

Conclusions:

Understanding the burden of disease for common chronic conditions and for combinations of these conditions is useful for delivering high-quality primary care that could be tailored for individuals with combinations of chronic conditions.
Development of a Prehabilitation Multimodal Supportive Care Interventions for Men and Their Partners Before Radical Prostatectomy for Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Paterson Catherine , Primeau Charlotte , Pullar Irene , Nabi Ghulam
Published: June 2018

Background

An important question revolves around when the most opportune time is to introduce recovery-optimizing behaviors for men opting for radical prostatectomy (RP) for localized prostate cancer (PCa). An emerging field of research describes the role of preoperative strategies to improve treatment tolerance and overall physical and psychological recovery.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of a multimodal prehabilitation intervention for men and their partners before RP for localized PCa.

Methods

Thirty-four patients who opted for RP for localized PCa and their partners (19) were identified and recruited into the study. The multimodal intervention was composed of educational materials, physiotherapy instruction, and a self-management group-based seminar.

Results

The multimodal prehabilitation intervention was perceived as overall helpful with demonstrated acceptability (91.9%). Beneficial themes related to the quality of the information provided to support self-management, open forum questions with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals, and increased knowledge among partners to help with their understanding of how to look after their partners.

Conclusion

The intervention was feasible and beneficial for the PCa dyad. A future pilot randomized controlled trial study is needed to provide sufficient evidence on the long-term physical and psychological outcomes and cost-effectiveness.

Implications for Practice

Oncology nurses play a key role in the development of prehabilitation care delivery. Prehabilitation interventions can have a positive effect on improving health outcomes for cancer patients and their partners after surgery and into survivorship.
Managing Cancer Experiences
Authors: Haase Kristen R. , Gifford Wendy , Holtslander Lorraine , Thomas Roanne
Published: June 2018

Background

People with cancer increasingly use the Internet to find information about their illness. However, little is known regarding people’s use of cancer-related Internet information (CRII) to manage their patient experience, defined as patients’ cumulative perceptions of interactions with the healthcare system during their illness.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to create an understanding of CRII use by people newly diagnosed with cancer and how it shapes their patient experience and informs their interactions with healthcare professionals and healthcare services.

Methods

An embedded mixed design guided this study. Nineteen people with cancer were interviewed twice and completed a survey about CRII use. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Descriptive statistics summarized the quantitative findings.

Results

Participants of all ages and educational levels reported using CRII as a pivotal resource, across the cancer trajectory. Cancer-related Internet information played a central role in how patients understood their illness and when they sought and used healthcare services. Two themes emerged based on patient interviews: (1) person in context and (2) management of information.

Conclusion

Cancer-related Internet information plays a crucial role in how people manage their illness and take control of their patient experience. Participants used CRII to learn about their illness, support their efforts to self-manage, and complement information from professionals.

Implications for Practice

Individuals and institutions can promote and encourage tailored CRII use by engaging patients and suggesting websites based on their needs. Doing so may create efficiencies in service use and empower patients to be more involved in their own care.
Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Review of 3 National Guidelines
Authors: Tsakiridis Ioannis , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Chalkia-Prapa Eleni-Markella , Athanasiadis Apostolos , Dagklis Themistoklis
Published: June 2018

Importance

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is a major cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare recommendations from published national guidelines for pregnancies complicated with PPROM.

Evidence Acquisition

A descriptive review of 3 national guidelines on PPROM was performed: the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists on “Preterm Prelabour Rupture of Membranes,” the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on “Premature Rupture of Membranes,” and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada on “Antibiotic Therapy in Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes.” Guidelines were compared in the diagnosis and management of PPROM. Recommendations and strength of evidence were reviewed based on each guideline's method of reporting. The references were compared with regard to their total number, total number of randomized controlled trials, Cochrane reviews, and systematic reviews/meta-analyses cited.

Results

The variations stated on the guidelines reflect the heterogeneity of the literature contributing to the guidelines and challenges of diagnosing and managing cases of PPROM.

Conclusions

An improved international guideline may improve safety and outcomes in pregnant women with PPROM.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians.

Learning Objectives

After completing this activity, the learner should be better able to assess the aspects on diagnosis of preterm premature rupture of membranes, analyze the available regimens for the management of cases with preterm premature rupture of membranes, and identify the appropriate time of delivery in cases of preterm premature rupture of membranes.
Parity Associated With Telomere Length Among US Reproductive Age Women
Authors: Pollack A. Z. , Rivers K. , Ahrens K. A.
Published: June 2018

(Abstracted from Human Reprod 2018;33:736–744)

Shorter telomeres have been associated with aging, parity, and multiple chronic diseases. A number of studies have reported that women with shorter telomeres are at increased risk of breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer; type 2 diabetes; cardiovascular disease; and atherosclerosis, as well as socio-environmental characteristics and stress.
Within Country Inequalities in Cesarean Section Rates: Observational Study of 72 Low and Middle Income Countries
Authors: Boatin Adeline Adwoa , Schlotheuber Anne , Betran Ana Pilar , Moller Ann-Beth , Barros Aluisio J. D. , Boerma Ties , Torloni Maria Regina , Victora Cesar G. , Hosseinpoor Ahmad Reza
Published: June 2018

(Abstracted from BMJ 2018;360:k55)

Access to cesarean delivery is an essential procedure for population-level obstetrical care. However, excessively high levels of cesarean often represent non–medically-indicated use, which may result in adverse events and exceed the risk of vaginal deliveries.
Risk of Stillbirth, Preterm Delivery, and Fetal Growth Restriction Following Exposure in a Previous Birth: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Malacova E. , Regan A. , Nassar N. , Raynes-Greenow C. , Leonard H. , Srinivasjois R. , Shand A. W. , Lavin T. , Pereira G.
Published: June 2018

(Abstracted from BJOG 2018;125:183–192)

The leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality are stillbirth, preterm birth (PTB), and small for gestational age (SGA), which can occur as a result of fetal growth restriction (FGR). Contemporary literature shows a significant increase in the risk of stillbirth, PTB, or SGA after its presentation in a prior pregnancy.
Paroxysmal Sympathetic Hyperactivity and Clinical Considerations for Patients With Acquired Brain Injuries
Authors: Thomas Alphonsa , Greenwald Brian D.
Published: June 2018

The term “storming” has often been used colloquially to characterize patients with brain injury who showed signs and symptoms of elevated heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature, and motor posturing. Recently, the term paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity has been used as the unifying term to describe these acute episodes of elevated sympathetic hyperactivity. Various pharmaceutical and management options are available, but no single drug or protocol has been deemed superior to the others. Data on prognosis and recovery in relation to paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity are limited but point toward poorer functional outcome and increased mortality. Overall, the phenomenon of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity requires further research to aid rehabilitative efforts so that patients can effectively participate in therapy. A review of the literature has revealed sparse information on the management of sympathetic storming within rehabilitation facilities. This narrative review seeks to provide an up-to-date synopsis and recommendations on the management of rehabilitation inpatients with paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity.
Semiautomated Spike Detection Software Persyst 13 Is Noninferior to Human Readers When Calculating the Spike-Wave Index in Electrical Status Epilepticus in Sleep
Authors: Joshi Charuta N. , Chapman Kevin E. , Bear Joshua J. , Wilson Scott B. , Walleigh Diana J. , Scheuer Mark L.
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

Our objective was to use semiautomatic methods for calculating the spike-wave index (SWI) in electrical status epilepticus in slow-wave sleep (ESES) and to determine whether this calculation is noninferior to human experts (HEs).

Methods:

Each HE marked identical 300-second epochs for all spikes and calculated the SWI in sleep EEGs of patients diagnosed with ESES. Persyst 13 was used to mark spikes (high sensitivity setting) in the same 300-second epochs marked by HEs. The spike-wave index was calculated. Pairwise HE differences and pairwise Persyst 13 (P13)-HE differences for the SWI were calculated. Bootstrap resampling (BCa, N = 3,000) was performed to better estimate mean differences and their 95% confidence bounds between HE and P13-HE pairs. Potential noninferiority of P13 to HEs was tested by comparing the 95% confidence bounds of the mean differences between pairs for the SWI.

Results:

Twenty EEG records were analyzed. Each HE marked 100 minutes of EEG. HEs 1, 2, 3, and 4 marked 10,075, 8,635, 9,710, and 9,898 spikes, respectively. The highest and lowest 95% confidence bound of the mean difference in the SWI between HE pairs was: High: 10.3%; Low: −10.2%. Highest and lowest 95% confidence bound of the mean difference in the SWI between P13 and HE pairings was as follows: high, 9.5% and low, −6.7%. The lack of a difference between P13 and HEs supports that the algorithm is not inferior to HEs.

Conclusions:

Persyst 13 is noninferior to HEs in calculating the SWI in ESES, thus suggesting that an automated approach to SWI calculation may be a useful clinical tool.
Using glycolysis enzyme sequences to inform Lactobacillus phylogeny
Authors: Brandt Katelyn , Barrangou Rodolphe
Published: June 2018

The genus Lactobacillus encompasses a diversity of species that occur widely in nature and encode a plethora of metabolic pathways reflecting their adaptation to various ecological niches, including humans, animals, plants and food products. Accordingly, their functional attributes have been exploited industrially and several strains are commonly formulated as probiotics or starter cultures in the food industry. Although divergent evolutionary processes have yielded the acquisition and evolution of specialized functionalities, all Lactobacillus species share a small set of core metabolic properties, including the glycolysis pathway. Thus, the sequences of glycolytic enzymes afford a means to establish phylogenetic groups with the potential to discern species that are too closely related from a 16S rRNA standpoint. Here, we identified and extracted glycolysis enzyme sequences from 52 species, and carried out individual and concatenated phylogenetic analyses. We show that a glycolysis-based phylogenetic tree can robustly segregate lactobacilli into distinct clusters and discern very closely related species. We also compare and contrast evolutionary patterns with genome-wide features and transcriptomic patterns, reflecting genomic drift trends. Overall, results suggest that glycolytic enzymes provide valuable phylogenetic insights and may constitute practical targets for evolutionary studies.
GGA2 and RAB13 promote activity-dependent β1-integrin recycling
Authors: Sahgal Pranshu , Alanko Jonna , Icha Jaroslav , Paatero Ilkka , Hamidi Hellyeh , Arjonen Antti , Pietilä Mika , Rokka Anne , Ivaska Johanna
Published: June 2018

β1-integrins mediate cell-matrix interactions and their trafficking is important in the dynamic regulation of cell adhesion, migration and malignant processes like cancer cell invasion. Here we employ an RNAi screen to characterize regulators of integrin traffic and identify the association of Golgi-localized gamma ear-containing Arf-binding protein 2 (GGA2) with β1-integrin and its role in recycling of the active but not inactive β1-integrin receptors. Silencing of GGA2 limits active β1-integrin levels in focal adhesions and decreases cancer cell migration and invasion congruent with its ability to regulate the dynamics of active integrins. Using the proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID) method, we identify two RAB family small GTPases, RAB13 and RAB10, associating with GGA2 and β1-integrin. Functionally, RAB13 silencing triggers the intracellular accumulation of active β1-integrin, reduces integrin activity, in focal adhesions, and cell migration, similarly to GGA2 depletion, indicating that both facilitate active β1-integrin recycling the plasma membrane. Thus, GGA2 and RAB13 are important specificity determinants for integrin activity-dependent traffic.
Mitochondrial genomes and phylogenetic analysis of Central American weakly-electric fishes:Apteronotus rostratus, Brachyhypopomus occidentalisandSternopygus dariensis
Authors: Aguilar Celestino , Miller Matthew J. , Loaiza Jose R. , Krahe Rüdiger , De León Luis F.
Published: June 2018

Electric fishes are a diverse group of freshwater organisms with the ability to generate electric organ discharges (EODs) that are used for communication and electrolocation. Over 200 species have originated in South America, but of these, only a few have managed to colonize the Central American Isthmus. Here, we assembled two complete and one nearly complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) for three Central American Gymnotiformes:Sternopygus dariensis, Brachyhypopomus occidentalisandApteronotus rostratus. We then explored the three species’ phylogenetic position in the context of South American electric fishes. Mitogenomes were organized in the standard fish mitogenome order, and presented sizes of 16,600, 16,540 and 15,940 base pairs (bp) (nearly complete) forS. dariensis, B. occidentalisandA. rostratus, respectively. We uncovered a novel 60 bp intergenic spacer (IGS) located between theCOIIand tRNALysgenes, which appears to be unique to the Apteronotidae. Furthermore, phylogenetic relationships supported the traditional monophyly of Gymnotiformes, with the three species positioned within their respective family. In addition, the genusApteronotuswas placed as the basal taxon of the order. Finally, we found high sequence divergence (13.3%) between ourB. occidentalisspecimen and a sequence previously reported in GenBank, suggesting that the prior mitogenome ofB. occidentalisrepresents a different South American species that was misidentified. Indeed, phylogenetic analyses usingCytochrome bgene across the genus placed the previously reported individual withinB. bennetti. Our study provides novel mitogenome resources that will advance our understanding of the diversity and phylogenetic history of Neotropical fishes.
Using Fuzzy Sets to Deal with Uncertainty in Single-species, Single-season Occupancy Models
Authors: McCallum Malcolm L.
Published: June 2018

Occupancy modeling is a valuable tool for managing wildlife populations. Current occupancy models provide estimates of occurrence based on a point estimate for the species detectability and presence-absence. However, detectability can vary based on many variables ranging from weather to personnel. Therefore, I propose the use of fuzzy sets rather than point estimates for detectability and binomial presence-absence data during calculations of occupancy. Fuzzy occupancy estimates are easier to determine, more robust, and generally more informative than traditional point-based occupancy models. Consequently, managers will have better information available for comparing occupancy values among sites. Fuzzy sets are especially useful when parameters of the study violate key data standards.
Mechanistic Insights into theCis-andTrans-acting Deoxyribonuclease Activities of Cas12a
Authors: Swarts Daan C. , Jinek Martin
Published: June 2018

HIGHLIGHTS

Target ssDNA binding allosterically induces unblocking of the RuvC active site

PAM binding facilitates unwinding of dsDNA targets

Non-target DNA strand cleavage is prerequisite for target DNA strand cleavage

After DNA cleavage, Cas12a releases the PAM-distal DNA product

CRISPR-Cas12a (Cpf1) is an RNA-guided DNA-cutting nuclease that has been repurposed for genome editing. Upon target DNA binding, Cas12a cleaves both the target DNA incisand non-target single stranded DNAs (ssDNA) intrans.To elucidate the molecular basis for both deoxyribonuclease cleavage modes, we performed structural and biochemical studies onFrancisella novicidaCas12a. We show how crRNA-target DNA strand hybridization conformationally activates Cas12a, triggering itstrans-acting, non-specific, single-stranded deoxyribonuclease activity. In turn,cis-cleavage of double-stranded DNA targets is a result of PAM-dependent DNA duplex unwinding and ordered sequential cleavage of the non-target and target DNA strands. Cas12a releases the PAM-distal DNA cleavage product and remains bound to the PAM-proximal DNA cleavage product in a catalytically competent,trans-active state. Together, these results provide a revised model for the molecular mechanism of Cas12a enzymes that explains theircis- andtrans-acting deoxyribonuclease activities, and additionally contribute to improving Cas12a-based genome editing.
The mirtron miR-1010 functions in concert with its host gene SKIP to maintain synaptic homeostasis
Authors: Amourda Christopher , Saunders Timothy E.
Published: June 2018

Mirtrons are non-canonical miRNAs arising by splicing and debranching from short introns. A plethora of introns have been inferred by computational analyses as potential mirtrons. Yet, few have been experimentally validated and their functions, particularly in relation to their host genes, remain poorly understood. Here, we found that larvae lacking the mirtron miR-1010 are unable to grow properly and pupariate. We show that miR-1010 downregulates nAcRβ2. Increase of cortical nAcRβ2 mediated by neural activity elevates the level of intracellular Ca2+, which in turn activates CaMKII and, further downstream, the transcription factor Adf-1. We reveal that Adf-1 initiates the expression of SKIP, the host gene of miR-1010. Preventing synaptic potentials from overshooting their optimal range requires both SKIP to temper synaptic potentials (incoherent feedforward loop) and miR-1010 to reduce nAcRβ2 mRNA levels (negative feedback loop). Our results demonstrate how a mirtron, in coordination with its host gene, contributes to maintaining homeostasis.
Conditioned increase of locomotor activity induced by haloperidol
Authors: De la Casa Luis G. , Carcel Lucía , Ruiz-Salas Juan C. , Vicente Lucía , Mena Auxiliadora
Published: June 2018

Dopamine antagonist drugs have profound effects on locomotor activity. In particular, the administration of the D2 antagonist haloperidol produces a state that is similar to catalepsy. In order to confirm whether the modulation of the dopaminergic activity produced by haloperidol can act as an unconditioned stimulus, we carried out two experiments in which the administration of haloperidol was repeatedly paired with the presence of distinctive contextual cues that served as a Conditioned Stimulus. Paradoxically, the results revealed a dose-dependent increase in locomotor activity following conditioning with dopamine antagonist (Experiments 1) that was susceptible of extinction when the conditioned stimulus was presented repeatedly by itself after conditioning (Experiment 2). These data are interpreted from an associative perspective, considering them as a result of a classical conditioning process.
Priming of leaf litter decomposition by algae seems of minor importance in natural streams during autumn
Authors: Elosegi Arturo , Nicolás Angie , Richardson John S.
Published: June 2018

Allochthonous detritus from terrestrial origin is one of the main energy sources in forested headwater streams, but its poor nutritional quality makes it difficult to use by heterotrophs. It has been suggested that algae growing on this detritus can enhance its nutritional quality and promote decomposition. So far, most evidence of this “priming” effect is derived from laboratory or mesocosm experiments, and it is unclear what its importance is under natural conditions. We measured accrual of algae, phosphorus uptake capacity, and decomposition of poplar leaves in autumn in open- and closed-canopy reaches in 3 forest and 3 agricultural streams. Chlorophyll a abundance did not change significantly neither with stream type nor with canopy cover, although some between open and closed reaches, although in some agricultural streams it was higher in open than in closed canopy reaches. Canopy cover did not affect either phosphate uptake capacity or microbial decomposition. On the other hand, although there was no effect of canopy cover on invertebrate fragmentation rate, a significant interaction between canopy cover and stream suggests priming occurs at least in some streams. Overall, the results point to a weak effect of algae on litter decomposition in natural streams during autumn.
Root Colonization and Growth Promotion of Soybean, Wheat and Chinese Cabbage byBacillus cereusYL6
Authors: Ku Yongli , Xu Guoyi , Wang Fawei , Liu Haijin , Yang Xiangna , Tian Xiaohong , Cao Cuiling
Published: June 2018

Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) have been isolated and used in agricultural production. However, comprehensive research on PSB colonizing the rhizosphere of different plants and promoting plant growth is lacking. This study was conducted to study the growth-promoting effects and colonizing capacity of the PSB strain YL6. The YL6 strain not only increased the biomass of pot-planted soybean and wheat but also increased the yield and growth of Chinese cabbage under field conditions. The promotion of growth in these crops by strain YL6 was related to its capacities to dissolve inorganic and organic phosphorus and to produce a certain amount of indole-3-acetic (IAA) and gibberellin (GA). After YL6 was applied to soybean, wheat and Chinese cabbage, the rhizosphere soil available phosphorus (available P) content increased by 120.16%, 62.47% and 7.21%, respectively, and the plant total phosphorus increased by 198.60%, 6.20% and 78.89%, respectively, compared with those of plants without the addition of YL6. To determine whether the phosphate solubilizing bacteria colonized these plants, YL6 labeled with green fluorescent protein (YL6-GFP) was inoculated into plant rhizospheres. YL6-GFP first colonized the root surface and hairs and then penetrated into intercellular spaces and vessels. Collectively, these results demonstrate that YL6 promoted the growth of three different crops and colonized them in a similar way and therefore provide a solid foundation for probing into mechanisms by which phosphate-solubilizing bacteria affect plant growth.
Growth differentiation factor-15 regulates oxLDL-induced lipid homeostasis and autophagy in human macrophages
Authors: Ackermann Kathrin , Bonaterra Gabriel A. , Kinscherf Ralf , Schwarz Anja
Published: June 2018

Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), a divergent and distant member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, is suggested as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Thus, we are interested to investigate the influence of GDF-15 in lipid homeostasis and autophagy in macrophages (MΦ) during foam cell formation. Our investigations represent the impairment of GDF-15 on modulators of autophagy and lipid homeostasis in PMA-differentiated human THP-1 MΦ. In this context,in vitroresulted GDF-15 silencing in a reduction of lipid accumulation, whereas the addition of recombinant (r)GDF-15 increased the lipid accumulation in human MΦ independent of oxidized (ox)LDL. Additionally, GDF-15 affected the expression of autophagy-relevant proteins (p62, Atg5 and Atg12/Atg5 protein complex) and the p62 accumulation in THP-1 MΦ. Hence, our data suggest that GDF-15 is involved in the regulation of the lipid homoeostasis of human MΦ by regulating autophagic processes.
A shared limiting resource leads to competitive exclusion in a cross-feeding system
Authors: Hammarlund Sarah P. , Chacón Jeremy M. , Harcombe William R.
Published: June 2018

Species interactions and coexistence are often highly dependent upon environmental conditions. This is especially true for cross-feeding bacteria that rely on one another for essential nutrients. The addition of a cross-fed nutrient to the environment can release one species from its dependence on another, thereby altering the species’ interaction and potentially affecting coexistence. Using invasion-from-rare experiments with cross-feeding bacteria, genome-scale metabolic modeling, and classical ecological models, we explored the potential for coexistence when one cross-feeding mutualist becomes independent. We show that whether nutrient addition shifts an interaction from mutualism to commensalism or parasitism depends on whether the limiting nutrient can be metabolized by only one species or by both species. Furthermore, we show that coexistence is only lost when the interaction becomes parasitism, and the obligate species has a slower maximum growth rate. Surprisingly, models suggest that rates of cross-fed nutrient production have a negligible effect. These results contribute to an understanding of how resource changes, whether intentional or not, will manipulate interactions and coexistence in microbial communities.
The Helix-Loop-Helix motif of human EIF3A regulates translation of proliferative cellular mRNAs
Authors: Volegova Marina P. , Hermosillo Cynthia , Cate Jamie H.D.
Published: June 2018

Improper regulation of translation initiation, a vital checkpoint of protein synthesis in the cell, has been linked to a number of cancers. Overexpression of protein subunits of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3) is associated with increased translation of mRNAs involved in cell proliferation. In addition to playing a major role in general translation initiation by serving as a scaffold for the assembly of translation initiation complexes, eIF3 regulates translation of specific cellular mRNAs and viral RNAs. Mutations in the N-terminal Helix-Loop-Helix (HLH) RNA-binding motif of the EIF3A subunit interfere with Hepatitis C Virus Internal Ribosome Entry Site (IRES) mediated translation initiationin vitro.Here we show that the EIF3A HLH motif controls translation of a small set of cellular transcripts enriched in oncogenic mRNAs, includingMYC. We demonstrate that the HLH motif of EIF3A acts specifically on the 5’-UTR ofMYCmRNA and modulates the function of EIF4A1 on select transcripts during translation initiation. In Ramos lymphoma cell lines, which are dependent on MYC overexpression, mutations in the HLH motif greatly reduce MYC expression, impede proliferation and sensitize cells to anti-cancer compounds. These results reveal the potential of the EIF3A HLH motif in eIF3 as a promising chemotherapeutic target.
Angular Substrate Preference and Molting Behavior of the Giant River Prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii and Its Implications for Cannibalism Management
Authors: McCallum Malcolm L. , Weston Samad D. , Tilahun Yonathan
Published: June 2018

The Giant River Prawn is an important commercial species from southeastern Asia and has a large global market. It has a complex life cycle in which it undergoes several molting sequences. Many arthropods require firm perches on which they can perform ecdysis. We investigated preference for substrate slope and its influence on ecdysis. We discovered that prawns occupy horizontal surfaces more frequently than others, but during pre-molt and molt stages, they shift their habitat use to non-horizontally sloped surfaces. Here, they will flex their shell and later molt. We recommend modification of cannibalism management in commercial facilities by providing sufficient vertical (strongly preferred) or high-sloped (greater than 30 degrees) surfaces to facilitate ecdysis, while providing much horizontal space for foraging and other activities. This should create habitat separation between foraging and highly susceptible freshly-molted prawns, thus leading to reduced cannibalism-related mortality.

Funding

This work was supported by the USDA Evans Allen Program at Langston University, Project Number USDA-NIFA-OKLUMCCALLUM2017.

Disclosure statement

We acknowledge that there is no financial interest or benefit that has arisen from the direct applications of our research.
Background mutability shapes observed mutational spectrum in cancer and improves driver mutation prediction
Authors: Li Minghui , Brown Anna-Leigh , Goncearenco Alexander , Panchenko Anna R
Published: June 2018

Identifying driver mutations in cancer is notoriously difficult. To date, recurrence of a mutation in patients remains one of the most reliable markers of mutation driver status. However, some mutations are more likely to occur than others due to differences in background mutation rates arising from various forms of infidelity of DNA replication and repair machinery, endogenous, and exogenous mutagens. We used cancer-type and mutagen-specific mutability to study the contribution of background processes of mutagenesis and DNA repair in shaping the observed mutational spectrum in cancer. We developed and tested probabilistic model that adjusts the number of mutation recurrences in patients by background mutability in order to find mutations which may be under selection in cancer. We showed that observed recurrence frequency of cancer mutations scaled with the background mutability, especially for tumor suppressor genes. In oncogenes, however, highly recurring mutations were characterized by relatively low mutability, resulting in a U-shaped trend. Mutations not yet observed in any tumor had relatively low mutability values, indicating that background mutability might limit the mutation occurrence. We compiled a dataset of missense mutations from 58 genes with experimentally validated functional and transforming impacts from different studies. We found that mutability of driver mutations was lower than the mutability of passengers and consequently adjusting mutation recurrence frequency by mutability significantly improved ranking of mutations and driver prediction. Even though no training on existing data was involved, our approach performed similar or better to the existing state-of-the-art methods. Availability: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/research/mutagene/gene
Storage length and temperature influence infectivity and spore yield of two commonDaphniaparasites
Authors: Duffy Meghan A. , Hunsberger Katherine K.
Published: June 2018

Daphniaand their parasites have emerged as a model system for understanding the ecology and evolution of infectious diseases. Two of the most commonly studiedDaphniaparasites are the bacteriumPasteuria ramosaand the fungusMetschnikowia bicuspidata. In addition to being the focus of numerous field studies, these two parasites have been used in many laboratory experiments. However, there is little information in the scientific literature about how the conditions under which these parasites are stored influence the infectivity and yield of transmission stages (“spores”). This is problematic because such information is critical for experiment design and data interpretation.

We tested the influence of storage length (eight treatments ranging from 1 day to 1 year) and temperature (−20°C (freezer) vs. 4°C (refrigerator)) on spore infectivity and yield. We found thatPasteuriaspores survived well at both −20°C and 4°C, and remained infective even after storage for one year. However,Pasteuriaspore yields dropped over time, particularly at 4°C. In contrast,Metschnikowiaspores were killed within days at −20°C. At 4°C,Metschnikowiainfectivity declined steadily over a period of two months and, by four months, spores were no longer infective. Spore yield fromMetschnikowia-infected hosts was not significantly impacted by storage length, but trended downwards.

Scientists working withPasteuriashould be aware that spore yield declines during storage, particularly in the refrigerator. Scientists working withMetschnikowiashould be aware that it is killed by freezer storage and that, even if it is stored in the refrigerator, infectivity declines within a few months. These results might have implications for parasite distributions in the field; for example, the high sensitivity ofMetschnikowiato freezing might help explain why it tends to be more common in deep lakes than in ponds or rock pools.
The organization of genome duplication is a critical determinant of the landscape of genome maintenance
Authors: Gómez-Escoda Blanca , Wu Pei-Yun Jenny
Published: June 2018

Genome duplication is essential for cell proliferation, and the mechanisms regulating its execution are highly conserved. These processes give rise to a spatiotemporal organization of replication initiation across the genome, referred to as the replication program. Despite the identification of such programs in diverse eukaryotic organisms, their biological importance for cellular physiology remains largely unexplored. We address this fundamental question in the context of genome maintenance, taking advantage of the inappropriate origin firing that occurs when fission yeast cells lacking the Rad3/ATR checkpoint kinase are subjected to replication stress. Using this model, we demonstrate that the replication program quantitatively dictates the extent of origin de-regulation and the clustered localization of these events. Furthermore, our results uncover an accumulation of abnormal levels of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and the Rad52 repair protein at de-regulated origins. We show that these loci constitute a defining source of the overall ssDNA and Rad52 hotspots in the genome, generating a signature pattern of instability along the chromosomes. We then induce a genome-wide reprogramming of origin usage and evaluate its consequences in our experimental system. This leads to a complete redistribution of the sites of both inappropriate initiation and associated Rad52 recruitment. We therefore conclude that the organization of genome duplication governs the checkpoint control of origin-associated hotspots of instability and plays an integral role in shaping the landscape of genome maintenance.
Contemporary Japanese art: between globalization and localization
Authors: Tagore-Erwin Eimi
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the influence that globalization has had on the development of the contemporary Japanese art production. The study also aims to expand the global narrative of Japanese art by introducing concepts behind festivals for revitalization that have been occurring in Japan in recent years.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by Culture Theorist Nira Yuval-Davies’ approach to the politics of belonging, the paper is situated within cultural studies and considers the development of contemporary art in Japan in relation to the power structures present within the global art market. This analysis draws heavily from the research of art historians Reiko Tomii, Adrian Favell, and Gennifer Weisenfeld, and is complemented by investigative research into the life of Art Director Kitagawa Fram, as well as observational analyses formed by on-site study of the Setouchi Triennale in 2015 and 2016.

Findings

The paper provides historical insight to the ways that the politics of belonging to the western world has created a limited benchmark for critical discussion about contemporary Japanese art. It suggests that festivals for revitalization in Japan not only are a good source of diversification, but also evidences criticism therein.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the brevity of this text, readers are encouraged to further investigate the source material for more in-depth understanding of the topics.

Practical implications

The paper implies that art historiography should take a multilateral approach to avoid a western hegemony in the field.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills a need to reflect on the limited global reception to Japanese art, while also identifying one movement that art historians and theorists may take into account in the future when considering a Japanese art discourse.
Innovative assignment rubrics for ODL courses: design, implementation and impact
Authors: Mariapan Rames
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new standard of assignment rubrics to minimize various interpretations and confusing expectations of the assignment outcome among all stakeholders and enhance the assignment rubrics to function not only as a grading tool but also as an assignment guiding tool for self-managed learning among open and distance learning (ODL) learners.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper looks into the problems and issues related to assignment rubrics such as various interpretation, confusing expectations and the need to have appropriate descriptions in the rubrics in order to reflect proper learning outcome among the assignment stakeholders. To solve these issues, the paper explores the new and improved requirements which were imposed to support the new assignment rubrics for courses in the university via a self-guided manual known as Rubrics Formulation Guide.

Findings

Based on the feedback received from university’s lecturers, who also functioned as moderators, it was indicated that the time taken to moderate the assignment rubrics had drastically reduced and in terms of grading, the clarity of the assignment performance expectations among the learners showed improvement, whereby as compared to the previous semester, there was significant drop for the application of remarking of assignments among May 2014 semester learners.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications of developing innovative rubrics that enhance common understanding and consistent expectation of what the final outcome of the assignment should be.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the purpose of expanding the potential of assignment rubrics which is to guide and grade.
Drivers and barriers to re-use Open Government Data (OGD): a case study of open data initiative in Philippines
Authors: Saxena Stuti
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Given that the Open Government Data (OGD) initiatives of any country are founded on principles of transparency and accountability, it is important that the data sets permit a user-friendly interface for the data sets to be re-used. This paper aims to underline the major drivers and barriers to re-use the data sets in the context of the Philippines.

Design/methodology/approach

In line with the model proposed by Sieber and Johnson (2015), the paper invoked an investigation of the national OGD portal of the Philippines following a documentary analysis research approach.

Findings

The OGD portal of the Philippines permits data search and sharing via social media. Data sets are available in user-friendly formats with a detailed description of the data set itself in the form of metadata. At the same time, the OGD portal of the Philippines has many barriers to re-use. Data sets are not current, and no attempts have been made at updating the records. While the provision of data mapping is provided, the same is not effective as of now. Conducting statistical analysis is not possible online and some of the links are not active. Finally, users’ suggestions are acknowledged, but the contribution of users toward the existing data sets is not permitted as of now.

Research limitations/implications

Given that only a single country’s OGD initiative has been investigated in the study, further research is warranted to undertake a comparative analysis of OGD institutionalization across different countries.

Practical implications

Government authorities are encouraged to be more proactive in furthering the OGD initiative. Policymakers and practitioners may appreciate the underlying barriers in re-using the data sets and seek to address these concerns.

Originality/value

The OGD initiative of the Philippines has not been investigated so far despite the rising tide of the OGD initiatives across the globe. Given that most of the research on OGD is focused in developed countries, the present study seeks to contribute toward the extant literature by investigating the OGD portal of the Philippines and underlining the major drivers and barriers in re-using the data sets available via the portal.
Weekend Works: Junkart at a crossroads
Authors: Banerjee Tushar Sankar , Kataria Ekkank
Published: June 2018

Subject area

Entrepreneurship.

Study level/applicability

Undergraduate/postgraduate students in Management.

Case overview

This case concerns the startup, Weekendworks Private Limited and their flagship service – Junkart – which aims to solve waste management issues in Delhi, India. Using recent technological improvements, the co-founders have developed a business model that connects customers/scrap owners and the vendors/Kabadiwalas. The case is focused on their entrepreneurial journey and the critical social issues that their dream aims to solve. It also focuses on displaying the strategic issues faced by an entrepreneur working in the informal sector of waste management and the entrepreneurial dilemma of a social entrepreneur.

Expected learning outcomes

The case can be used in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The students should develop an entrepreneurial mindset by learning key entrepreneurial traits; develop an ability to recognize an entrepreneurial opportunity especially in the context of social entrepreneurship; recognize entrepreneurial processes and outcomes in real-world situations; and understand entrepreneurship within a set of practical frameworks and concepts.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
The trade-off between synergy success and efficiency gains in M&A strategy
Authors: Rozen-Bakher Ziva
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This study raises the question of whether the nature of the merger and acquisition (M&A) strategyper se, that is reflected throughout the M&A process, may lead to a potential trade-off between the two main objectives of M&As – synergy success and efficiency gains, which may explain the high failure rate of the M&A strategy. The purpose of this paper is to present a mediation model to explore the potential trade-off that may exist between synergy success and efficiency gains. The model examines whether the change in the workforce size during the M&A process mediates the relationship between the types of M&A and M&A success, resulting in a trade-off.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a sample of 394 public firms.

Findings

The study reveals that if the management over-increases the workforce size to realize the synergy potential, then it heightens the risk of the “win synergy-lose efficiency” trade-off, resulting in an increase in revenue growth but a decrease in profitability. The results even show that international M&As lead to an “over” increase in the workforce size to maximize the synergy potential, but at the same time, an increase in the workforce size harms the efficiency gains, resulting in a decrease in profitability. However, vertical and conglomerate M&As may lead neither to synergy success nor to efficiency gains, which reflects a situation of no benefits from the M&A for the acquirer.

Originality/value

The study emphasizes that one of the main challenges in the implementation of the M&A strategy is to strike a balance between the objective of improving efficiency through cutting costs and workforce reduction during the integration stage and the objective of realizing the synergy potential, despite the workforce reduction during the M&A process.