bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanosensitive calcium signaling in filopodia
Authors: Efremov Artem K. , Yao Mingxi , Sheetz Michael P. , Bershadsky Alexander D. , Martinac Boris , Yan Jie
Published: October 2020

Filopodia are ubiquitous membrane projections that play crucial role in guiding cell migration on rigid substrates and through extracellular matrix by utilizing yet unknown mechanosensing molecular pathways. As recent studies show that Ca2+channels localized to filopodia play an important role in regulation of their formation and since some Ca2+channels are known to possess mechanosensing properties, activity of filopodial Ca2+channels might be tightly interlinked with the filopodia mechanosensing function. We tested this hypothesis by monitoring changes in the intra-filopodial Ca2+level in response to application of stretching force to individual filopodia of several cell types. It has been found that stretching forces of tens of pN strongly promote Ca2+influx into filopodia, causing persistent Ca2+oscillations that last for minutes even after the force is released. Most of the known mechanosensitive Ca2+channels, such as Piezo 1, Piezo 2 and TRPV4, were found to be dispensable for the observed force-dependent Ca2+influx. In contrast, L-type Ca2+channels appear to be a key component in the discovered phenomenon. Since previous studies have shown that intra-filopodial transient Ca2+signals play an important role in guidance of cell migration, our results suggest that the force-dependent activation of L-type Ca2+channels may contribute to this process. Overall, our study reveals an intricate interplay between mechanical forces and Ca2+signaling in filopodia, providing novel mechanistic insights for the force-dependent filopodia functions in guidance of cell migration.

Significance statement

We found that tensile forces of tens of pN applied to individual filopodia trigger Ca2+influx through L-type Ca2+channels, producing persistent Ca2+oscillations inside mechanically stretched filopodia. Resulting elevation of the intra-filopodial Ca2+level in turn leads to downstream activation of calpain protease, which is known to play a crucial role in regulation of the cell adhesion dynamics. Thus, our work suggests that L-type channel-dependent Ca2+signaling and the mechanosensing function of filopodia are coupled to each other, synergistically governing cell adhesion and motion in a force-dependent manner. Since L-type Ca2+channels have been previously found in many different cell types, such as neural or cancer cells, the above mechanism is likely to be widespread among various cell lines.
Zernike phase-contrast full-field transmission X-ray nanotomography for 400 micrometre-sized samples
Authors: Park Jae Yeon , Kim Yeseul , Lee Sangsul , Lim Jun
Published: October 2020

Full-field X-ray nanotomography based on a Fresnel zone plate offers a promising and intuitive approach to acquire high-quality phase-contrast images with a spatial resolution of tens of nanometres, and is applicable to both synchrotron radiation and laboratory sources. However, its small field of view (FOV) of tens of micrometres provides limited volume information, which primarily limits its application fields. This work proposes a method for expanding the FOV as the diameter of the objective zone plate, which provides a 400 µm FOV at below 500 nm resolution with Zernike phase contrast. General applications of large-volume nanotomography are demonstrated in integrated circuit microchips and Artemia cysts. This method can be useful for imaging/analyzing industrial and biological samples where bulk properties are important or the sample is difficult to section.
Can blockchain be a strategic resource for ODL?: a study
Authors: Kant Nikhil , Anjali Kumari
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the hitherto unexplored strategic potentialities of blockchain as an intangible resource for open and distance learning (ODL) to attain and sustain competitive advantage by creating a more learner centric learning ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

Research design included review of the literature, desk research and case analyses to conduct this study so that the hitherto unexplored strategic potentialities of blockchain, a technological innovation, for ODL could be explored adequately.

Findings

The findings of the paper reveal that ODL must not miss out on the opportunity of harnessing the hitherto unexplored strategic potentialities of blockchain in its quest of attaining and sustain competitiveness vis-a-vis conventional system of learning. Results of this study sufficiently hint at the possible viability of considering blockchain as a strategic resource for ODL.

Practical implications

Results of this study sufficiently indicate the possible viability of considering blockchain as a strategic resource for ODL which in turn make them significant for decision-makers and policymakers engaged in developing ODL. Findings hint that ODL needs to make efforts to harness the strategic potentialities of blockchain for attaining and sustaining competitiveness which would also be helpful for ODL to contribute towards achievement of sustainable development goals. This paper attempts to provide a strategic viewpoint to the use of this technological innovation as a significant intangible resource discussing primarily the strategic perspectives of blockchain helpful in the further development of ODL.

Originality/value

Although uses of blockchain-enabled applications in ODL are relatively new, the growth is very fast. The present paper offers originality and value by filling the gap created by the inadequacies of studies focusing on the idiosyncratic characteristics including but not limited to decentralization and security of blockchain. Findings suggest that blockchain offers huge potentialities in terms of benefits for entire ODL ecosystem comprising different stakeholders such as institutions, learners, educators, etc.
Cognitive behavioural therapy for psychogenic non-epileptic seizures in the context of mild intellectual disability: a case study
Authors: Diamond Peter Robert , Delaney Claire
Published: October 2020

Purpose

There is a growing evidence base for cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as a treatment for psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) in the general population. Despite the relatively high proportion of individuals with PNES who have an intellectual disability (ID) there is a paucity of literature on the use of CBT for PNES in this population. The purpose of this paper is to describe the use of an adapted CBT approach to treat PNES in a woman with mild ID.

Design/methodology/approach

The intervention used a CBT approach that included both the client and her mother, her primary care giver, throughout the therapy sessions. It involved 13 1-hour sessions over 20 weeks.

Findings

Over the course of the intervention the client experienced a reduction in seizure activity. Both the client and her mother reported increases in her perceived ability to cope with the seizures.

Originality/value

This report describes an adapted CBT-based intervention for individuals with PNES in the context of ID. It is the first report to include the involvement of a care-giver in adapting this approach for individuals with ID.
Training effectiveness and employee outcomes: a study of an Australian manufacturing organization
Authors: Saira Saira , Mansoor Sadia , Ishaque Sadia , Ehtisham Sadia , Ali Muhammad
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether the impact of effectiveness of diversity training on affective commitment is different for men versus women and whether affective commitment mediates the relationship between effectiveness of diversity training and employee outcomes of turnover intention and job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 134 employees working in an Australian manufacturing organization by using an employee survey. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data using AMOS.

Findings

The results of this study support the proposed hypotheses, demonstrating a significant, indirect effect of effective diversity training on job satisfaction and turnover intention via affective commitment. Moreover, gender moderates the relationship between effective diversity training and affective commitment.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that organizations can enhance affective commitment and job satisfaction and reduce turnover intention by providing effective diversity training to employees. Gender of employees should also be considered when evaluating the effectiveness of training.

Originality/value

This study provides pioneering evidence of the following relationships: diversity training effectiveness and turnover intention via affective commitment; diversity training effectiveness and job satisfaction via affective commitment; and diversity training effectiveness and affective commitment for men versus women.
Effect of a transverse crack on the dynamic behaviours of a 3D rod-fastening rotor bearing system
Authors: Wang Nanshan , Liu Heng , Liu Yi , Wang Qidan , Qi Shemiao , Xu Zhidong
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the dynamic behaviours of a three-dimensional (3D) rod-fastening rotor bearing system (RFBS) with a crack in a fastening rod.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the 3D finite element method model and stress analysis of a cracked RFBS, a 3D dynamic model of the RFBS with a crack in a fastening rod is established with considering the initial bending and stress redistribution caused by the crack. A combined numerical simulation technology is used to investigate the dynamic behaviours of the system.

Findings

The distribution of contact stress between the two disks will be not uniform, and the initial bending of the system will occur due to the presence of a crack. This will lead to the change of system stiffness and the dynamic behaviours such as vibration amplitude, and motion orbits will change significantly.

Research limitations/implications

A 3D finite element method dynamic model is proposed for the study of dynamic characteristics of complex combined rotor bearing system with cracks.

Practical implications

It is helpful and significant to master the dynamic behaviours of cracked RFBS. It is helpful to detect the presence of a crack of the rotor bearing system.

Social implications

Some of the losses caused by crack failure may be reduced.

Originality/value

The proposed 3D method can provide a useful reference for the study of dynamic characteristics of complex combined rotor bearing system with cracks.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-05-2020-0189
Towards an inclusive curation of WWI heritage: integrating historical aerial photographs, digital museum applications and landscape markers in “Flanders Fields” (Belgium)
Authors: Stichelbaut Birger , Plets Gertjan , Reeves Keir
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Over a century of state-sponsored construction of monuments, historic mythmaking and nationalist framings of WWI has ensured that it has become notoriously difficult to present the heritage of the Great War in an inclusive and non-selective way. In this paper the authors present a strategy and technology-driven solutions to overcome the selective heritage curation of modern conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on a suite of tools, applications and cultural heritage management plans developed by the In Flanders Fields Museum (IFFM), this paper explores the challenges of preserving and curating conflict heritage. The authors investigate the philosophy, cultural heritage management strategies and exhibitions used to curate the heritage of the Ypres Salient (Belgium).

Findings

The paper argues that historical aerial photographs integrated in multimedia exhibits present themselves as a fascinating source bringing the landscape within the walls of the museum. Mobile augmented reality (AR) applications developed by the museum go one step beyond and bring museum techniques to the landscape.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents a strategy to present, manage and curate the entirety of conflict heritage from the modern period. Faced with growing politicisation and memorialisation of modern conflict, it is extremely important that inclusive heritage management and curation is insured. The reflections on different curatorial techniques used by the IFFM can contribute globally towards a better heritage engagement.

Practical implications

An innovative and meaningful framework enables a more historically nuanced visitor experience to key heritage sites throughout the Ypres Salient.

Social implications

Ensuring a non-selective heritage experience is especially pressing today. Over the past century canonised and national narratives have prescribed our understanding of the First World War across Europe and beyond.

Originality/value

Adopting a critical stance towards the proliferation in AR apps and applying theories from anthropology and phenomenology has been developed combining AR with arboreal landscape relics.
Financing preference of listed small and medium enterprises (SMEs): evidence from NSE Emerge Platform in India
Authors: Verma Sushma , Shome Samik , Patel Aakruti
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The study aims to empirically evaluate the effect of internal factors of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on their financing choices. It also examines the financing practices of listed SMEs in India and finds out whether the financing patterns of listed SMEs follow the established theories of corporate finance.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study, 113 SMEs listed on National Stock Exchange Emerge Platform are considered for the period from 2014 to 2018. Panel data regression is applied. The control group has been identified by using the propensity score matching approach. Qualitative information has been collected from the bank officials and the promoters of listed SMEs.

Findings

The study reveals that for meeting financial requirements, listed SMEs initially create current liabilities followed by usage of total reserves. Thereafter, they look for short- and long-term borrowings for further funding options. No significant change is observed in the financing pattern of listed SMEs as compared to their non-listed matched firms. The study suggests that no single theory, including pecking order theory or trade-off theory, could explain the behaviour of SMEs financing completely.

Research limitations/implications

The financing pattern of SMEs can be of great interest to various stakeholders such as government and lenders. As no significant boost is observed in debt financing post listing, this aspect needs to be evaluated by the stakeholders.

Originality/value

This study is significantly different from the existing studies, as it attempts to evaluate the impact of listing on overall financing pattern of SMEs in India. This is also one of the very few studies that uses both quantitative and qualitative information to examine the same.
Does plant role moderate relationship between internal manufacturing network integration, external supply chain integration, operational performance in manufacturing network?
Authors: Cheng Yang , Farooq Sami , Jajja Muhammad Shakeel Sadiq
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the moderating effects of the role a plant plays in a manufacturing network on the relationships between its level of integration with other plants in the same manufacturing network (referred as “internal manufacturing network integration” in this paper), its interactions with suppliers/customers (referred as “external supply chain integration” in this paper), and its operational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the data from the sixth version of International Manufacturing Strategy Survey (IMSS VI). Specifically, this paper uses a subset of the IMSS VI data set from the 606 plants that identified themselves as one of the plants in a manufacturing network.

Findings

The results demonstrate plant role has a moderating effect on the relationship between internal manufacturing network integration and external supply chain integration, but not on the relationship between external supply chain integration and operational performance. Our research also highlights that plant role moderates the mediating effect of external supply chain integration on the relationship between internal manufacturing network integration and operational performance. More importantly, it indicates that if a plant wants to significantly increase its operational performance, it will have to strengthen its linkages with supply chain partners, no matter which role it plays in manufacturing network.

Originality/value

This paper supplements the existing research by developing further understandings on the relationship between internal manufacturing network integration, external supply chain integration and operational performance. Specifically, it examines the influence of plant role on such relationship and reveals the essence about in what context (in terms of plant characteristics) internal manufacturing network integration influences the operational performance of a plant in a manufacturing network through external supply chain integration.
Pakistan: making a “COVID budget” in a struggling economy
Authors: Ashfaq Marium , Bashir Mohsin
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the fiscal measures undertaken by the Pakistani government to counter the recessionary pressures of the coronavirus pandemic. The authors analyse the economic, social and political factors that have shaped the government's fiscal policy response to this economic shock.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyse the federal and provincial budget documents for the fiscal year 2020–21 to study the fiscal response of the government. The authors review recent research articles and news pieces to examine the determinants of these budgetary measures.

Findings

The government adopted expansionary fiscal policy measures such as reduced taxation and increased government expenditure to counter the recessionary pressures of the pandemic. These measures, however, were largely constrained by macroeconomic issues of high fiscal debt, slow economic growth and low fiscal space and political influences from the military and religious groups.

Research limitations/implications

The coronavirus pandemic is an ongoing issue which may pose more threats and elicit more policy responses as it evolves. This research may be extended as the pandemic progresses, to include further policy responses.

Originality/value

This research provides insight into the unique problems faced by the Pakistani government during the pandemic, and how it steers the economy despite these limitations.
Systems approaches to professional and decisional mathematics capital
Authors: Dickson Brandon , Mussio Carolyn , Kotsopoulos Donna
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore how the theories of professional capital and decisional capital can be extended to introduce “professional mathematics capital” and “decisional mathematics capital”.

Design/methodology/approach

Professional development (PD) efforts in one school district in elementary mathematics education are described to illustrate these extensions and to contemplate ways to enhance teacher learning of mathematics pedagogy.

Findings

Both theoretical extensions provided useful frameworks for conceptualizing mathematics PD. Preliminary evidence suggests that participants demonstrated the emergence of professional and decisional mathematics capital.

Research limitations/implications

While there were observed and reported changes to teacher practice, further research is needed to explore the implications of these theoretical extensions on student learning.

Originality/value

This study serves to enhance the literature related to PD and teachers' mathematical content knowledge. The theoretical extensions of professional and decisional mathematics capital are a novel and promising concept that allows for a unique approach to be laid out for those designing PD in mathematics.
Be like me: the effects of manager–supervisor alignment
Authors: Anzengruber Johanna , Bergner Sabine , Nold Herbert , Bumblauskas Daniel
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study examines whether managerial capability fit between line managers, middle managers and top-level managers enhances effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Effectiveness data and managerial capability ratings from more than 1,600 manager–supervisor dyads were collected in the United States and Germany. Polynomial regression was used to study the relation between manager–supervisor fit and managerial effectiveness.

Findings

Our results indicate that the fit of managerial capabilities between a manager and his/her supervisor predicts the effectiveness of this manager. The most effective managers show particularly high managerial capabilities that are in line with predominantly high managerial capabilities of their supervisors. Two aspects are important: the manager–supervisor fit and the absolute capability level that both possess. The results further indicate that the importance of the manager–supervisor fit varies across lower, middle and top-level management dyads.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes by advancing research on managerial capability fit conditions between managers and their supervisors as a central element in viewing and managing effectiveness.

Practical implications

This article informs managers, supervisors and HR professionals about pitfalls in organizations that degrade effectiveness.

Originality/value

This article shows how the alignment between managers and their supervisors relates to effectiveness in a large-scale study across different hierarchical levels.
Impression management strategies and water disclosures – the case of CDP A-list
Authors: Fialho Ana , Morais Ana , Costa Rosalina Pisco
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the introduction of water security, in 2015, as a category in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) Climate A-List, increases the use of impression management (IM) strategies. The purpose is to analyze how companies reacted to programmes of voluntary disclosure of environmental information.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed-methods research was developed, combining a qualitative and quantitative approach. This study first used a qualitative content analysis of 15 companies’ reports, from the materials sector, which was scored in the CDP Climate A-List, in 2017, to identify the IM strategies adopted. Next, this study conducted a quantitative analysis to test the mean differences of water references between years, industry and region.

Findings

Three types of IM strategies are identified (justification and commitment, self-promotion and authorization). The references identified as self-promotion strategy increased in 2016. This indicates companies reacted to the programmes for voluntary disclosure of environmental information by increasing strategies of legitimization and image promotion.

Research limitations/implications

Further research can be developed, focusing only on sustainability reports and extending the number of companies, the period and sectors under analysis.

Originality/value

This paper shows how the inclusion of a topic such as water security in an environmental ranking of companies, namely, CDP A-List, affects the use of IM strategies in voluntary disclosures.
Infodemics during COVID-19: resources and recommendations to combat it
Authors: Cifuentes-Faura Javier
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This paper attempts to explain the infodemics that the coronavirus crisis has generated through the dissemination of fake news, which can lead people and institutions to make decisions that end up being counterproductive to their own interests or to the needs of society.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing literature in the field of information has been reviewed, as well as the fake news that has been spread during the COVID-19 crisis. Based on this review, a series of guidelines have been drawn up to enable citizens to detect the false information that is being disseminated.

Findings

This paper has established a series of recommendations to be followed by any communicator, journalist or person who creates content and information to promote effective communication during this crisis. It concludes that the role of the media is key in trying to reduce the spread of fake news.

Originality/value

This paper reflects the need to combat fake news originating during the pandemic through effective communication following a series of guidelines.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-08-2020-0352
Decreasing predation rates and shifting predator compositions along a land‐use gradient in Madagascar's vanilla landscapes
Authors: Schwab Dominik , Wurz Annemarie , Grass Ingo , Rakotomalala Anjaharinony A. N. A. , Osen Kristina , Soazafy Marie Rolande , Martin Dominic A. , Tscharntke Teja
Published: October 2020

Land‐use change is the main driver of deforestation and land degradation resulting in the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in north‐eastern Madagascar. Vanilla, the region's main cash crop, is grown in agroforestry systems and may provide an opportunity for the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

We used dummy caterpillars to assess predation rates and predator communities along a land‐use gradient including unburned old‐growth and forest fragments, herbaceous and woody fallows after shifting cultivation with fire usage, as well as rice paddies. The studied vanilla agroforests were either forest‐derived or fallow‐derived. Besides land‐use type, we considered the effects of land‐use history (unburned/burned), plot‐level parameters and the landscape composition to conclude on management recommendations.

Old‐growth forest and forest fragments exhibited highest predation rates, which decreased with land‐use intensity. Overall, predation was higher in unburned land‐use types than in more open, previously burned habitats and rice paddies. High stem and vegetation densities were positively related to predation rates, but decreased with land‐use intensity. High forest cover in the surrounding landscape led to higher predation rates, while local structural parameters remained more important.

The predator community was arthropod‐dominated across all land‐use types with ants responsible for between 33% and 69% of all predation events. Overall predator composition in old‐growth and forest fragments differed from all other land‐use types. Predation by Gryllacrididae (Orthoptera) was lower in all land‐use types, including forest‐derived vanilla, than in old‐growth forest and forest fragments, where they were important contributors to total predation. Vertebrate predation was low throughout.

Synthesis and applications. Forested habitats feature higher predation rates and different predator compositions than other land‐use systems. Maintaining or restoring tree‐ and understorey‐rich vanilla agroforestry represents a viable tool in landscape conservation programmes as it has the potential to contribute to the conservation of predation as an important ecosystem function in both forest‐ and fallow‐derived agroforests. However, vanilla agroforestry has limited value in conserving forest‐specialized predator communities. While the establishment of tree‐rich agroforests on former fallow land is favourable for conservation ecosystem functioning, further forest transformation should be avoided.
The Afterlife of St Osmund: From Bishop to Saint, and from Old to New Sarum
Authors: TATTON‐BROWN TIM
Published: October 2020

Bishop Osmund of Salisbury died in 1099, after building a fine new cathedral in the late Anglo‐Saxon burh beside William I's new castle on top of the hill at ‘Old Sarum’. Only in the late twelfth century did St Osmund's cult get under way. This article follows the long drawn out story of his canonisation (finally achieved in 1457) and shrine construction in the magnificent new Salisbury cathedral. Although this shrine was destroyed in 1539, the original late twelfth‐century ‘foramina’ shrine, which was similar to Thomas Becket's first shrine in the crypt of Canterbury cathedral, still survives.
Effect of inulin on rheological, textural, and structural properties of brown wheat flour dough and in vitro digestibility of developed Arabic bread
Authors: Ahmed Jasim , Thomas Linu , Khashawi Rawan Ali
Published: October 2020

The brown wheat flour (BWF)‐based Arabic bread was fortified with chicory‐derived inulin. The objective of this work was to assess the influence of the inulin concentration (1.25 to 5%) on the rheological, textural properties, and fermentation efficacy of enriched BWF dough. Farinographic measurement established that only 3.75% BWF can be substituted by inulin in a dough formulation, which resulted in lowering the water absorption capacity. The peak gelatinization temperature, Tp detected at 74.4 °C by rheometric measurement, which increased linearly with increasing the inulin concentration. The elastic modulus (Gʹ), however, differed significantly among doughs with the addition of inulin. The dough hardness and compressibility increased as a function of inulin concentration. TPA measurement indicated that the Arabic bread fortified
with 3.75% inulin was the best in texture. The addition of inulin improved the volume of CO2 generation in the yeasted dough. The distribution of starch particles on the top layer of bread surface was visualized through SEM. In‐vitro digestion and steady‐flow measurement of the BWF/inulin bread digesta exhibited a slow digestion and an increment in the apparent viscosity against the control bread, which further confirmed potential health benefits of the developed Arabic bread.

Practical Application

Arabic bread is a staple food in many Asian countries, and an incorporation of soluble fiber, like inulin, definitely improves its health benefits. This work optimized a formulation based on BWF and inulin with technical feasibility. Rheological and textural studies demonstrated that blend bread could be made by replacing 3.75% BWF by inulin with significantly lower water content. Inulin has replaced the sugar in the yeasted dough, and carried out the bread fermentation adequately.
Polysaccharide selection and mechanism for prevention of protein–polyphenol haze formation in beverages
Authors: Wang Lijun , Zhao Shan , Liao Tianyu , Shu Xiaomeng , Guo Dengfeng , Huang Yukun , Yang Xiao , Wang Qin , Chen Xianggui
Published: October 2020

Polysaccharides have been considered as a group of promising candidate for preventing the protein–polyphenol haze formation in beverages. In order to select effective polysaccharides to prevent the haze formation, four protein–polyphenol haze model systems were successfully established using two proteins (i.e., gelatin and bovine serum albumin) and two polyphenols (i.e., procyanidin [PC] and epigallocatechin gallate [EGCG]). Among seven common polysaccharides, 0.5 mg/mL pectin, 0.05 mg/mL xanthan gum, and 0.01 mg/mL guar gum demonstrated the maximum potential for preventing the formation of four protein–polyphenol hazes. Ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry confirmed that polysaccharides affected protein–polyphenol interactions. Fluorescence spectrophotometry combined with microscale thermophoresis data indicated the relative affinities of polyphenol to protein and polysaccharide determined the mechanism of polysaccharide for preventing the haze formation. In bovine serum albumin (BSA)/gelatin‐EGCG system, polysaccharides (pectin, xanthan gum and guar gum) competed with BSA/gelatin to bind EGCG for prevention the formation of BSA/gelatin‐EGCG haze. However, in BSA/gelatin‐PC system, polysaccharides (pectin, xanthan gum, and guar gum) formed a ternary complex (protein–tannin–polysaccharide) for increasing the solubility of protein‐polyphenol aggregation. From apple juice results, the reduction rates of guar gum in two apple juice systems (gelatin‐PC, BSA‐PC) were 21% and 56% within 8 weeks, indicating guar gum might be the most effective polysaccharide in preventing the haze formation.

Practical Application

This experiment data could be used for development of polysaccharide products for prevention of protein–polyphenol haze formation in beverages.
Design of biopolymer carriers enriched with natural emulsifiers for improved controlled release of thyme essential oil
Authors: Volić Mina M. , Obradović Nataša S. , Djordjević Verica B. , Luković Nevena D. , Knežević‐Jugović Zorica D. , Bugarski Branko M.
Published: October 2020

This work aims to characterize a novel system for thyme essential oil delivery based on the combination of natural emulsifiers (soy protein and soy lecithin) and alginate, produced using the extrusion technique. The formulations are optimized concerning alginate and soy protein concentrations (both 1 to 1.5 wt.%), and consequently lecithin amount, in order to achieve spherical beads in the range 2.0 to 2.3 mm and 1.2 to 1.4 mm, wet and dry, respectively. Fourier‐transform infrared analysis was performed, proving that there are interactions between all components. Lecithin–soy protein synergistic combination improved entrapment efficiency of total polyphenols (for nearly 12%) and decreased thymol release in a simulated gastric solution for nearly 35%, in comparison with beads without lecithin. The addition of lecithin enhances the thermal properties of the polysaccharide–protein systems at 50 °C after 3 hr of heating. The mechanical stability of the biopolymer carriers is improved with lecithin addition and the elastic modulus varied from 80.06 to 123.7 kPa, depending on the formulation. Alginate/soy protein/lecithin are effective carriers for the encapsulation, protection, and controlled release of thyme essential oil.

Practical Application

There is unfortunately growing human resistance to antibiotics. This work offers a novel system for effective protection and controlled release of thyme essential oil in the small intestine. The mechanical and thermal properties of the carrier were estimated as they indicate how the beads will be able to resist stress during their incorporation into food (i.e. cookies‐mixing, baking). The proposed approach offers ‘‘green advantage’’ as arises from all‐natural materials.
Alternative volumetric PET parameters for evaluation of breast cancer cases with 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging: Metabolic tumour volume and total lesion glycolysis
Authors: Arslan Esra , Can Trabulus Didem , Mermut Özlem , Şavlı Taha Cumhan , Çermik Tevfik Fikret
Published: October 2020

Introduction

We aimed to investigate the prognostic and clinical values of two volumetric PET parameters used in conjunction with SUVmax at different thresholds in invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Methods

A total of 139 metastatic IDC BC who underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging were included to study. MTV and TLG (40%, 50%, 60% and 70%) used in conjunction with primary tumour SUVmax. Nodal involvement, distant metastasis, ER, PR, Ki‐67 expression and survival data evaluated by comparing FDG PET parameters.

Results

Mean ± SD SUVmax of lesions (n = 139) was 13.97 ± 9.21. Primary tumour 18F‐FDG uptake associated increased tumour diameter (>2 cm), high Ki‐67 (>15%) and distant organ metastasis (DOM) (P = 0.015, 0.005 and 0.016, respectively). There was significant association between molecular subtypes and SUVmax (P = 0.002). High MTV associated with tumour diameter (MTV 40–70%), axillary lymph node (ALN) diameter (MTV 40–70%), and distant nodal metastasis (DNM) (MTV 50–70%). High TLG associated with tumour diameter (TLG 40–70%), high Ki‐67 (TLG 40–70%), ALN metastasis (TLG 40%), ALN diameter (TLG 40–70%) and DNM (TLG 40–70%). Median survival found shorter in DOM patients (P = 0.030, Log Rank = 0.110).

Conclusion

We think evaluation of MTV and TLG at different thresholds in addition to SUVmax would enhance diagnostic and prognostic value of 18F‐FDG PET/CT, and thus contribute to disease management.
microRNA‐146a controls age‐related bone loss
Authors: Saferding Victoria , Hofmann Melanie , Brunner Julia S. , Niederreiter Birgit , Timmen Melanie , Magilnick Nathaniel , Hayer Silvia , Heller Gerwin , Steiner Günter , Stange Richard , Boldin Mark , Schabbauer Gernot , Weigl Moritz , Hackl Matthias , Grillari Johannes , Smolen Josef S. , Blüml Stephan
Published: October 2020

Bone loss is one of the consequences of aging, leading to diseases such as osteoporosis and increased susceptibility to fragility fractures and therefore considerable morbidity and mortality in humans. Here, we identify microRNA‐146a (miR‐146a) as an essential epigenetic switch controlling bone loss with age. Mice deficient in miR‐146a show regular development of their skeleton. However, while WT mice start to lose bone with age, animals deficient in miR‐146a continue to accrue bone throughout their life span. Increased bone mass is due to increased generation and activity of osteoblasts in miR‐146a‐deficient mice as a result of sustained activation of bone anabolic Wnt signaling during aging. Deregulation of the miR‐146a target genes Wnt1 and Wnt5a parallels bone accrual and osteoblast generation, which is accompanied by reduced development of bone marrow adiposity. Furthermore, miR‐146a‐deficient mice are protected from ovariectomy‐induced bone loss. In humans, the levels of miR‐146a are increased in patients suffering fragility fractures in comparison with those who do not. These data identify miR‐146a as a crucial epigenetic temporal regulator which essentially controls bone homeostasis during aging by regulating bone anabolic Wnt signaling. Therefore, miR‐146a might be a powerful therapeutic target to prevent age‐related bone dysfunctions such as the development of bone marrow adiposity and osteoporosis.
Transformation of resident notochord‐descendent nucleus pulposus cells in mouse injury‐induced fibrotic intervertebral discs
Authors: Au Tiffany Y. K. , Lam To‐Kam , Peng Yan , Wynn Sarah L. , Cheung Kenneth M. C. , Cheah Kathryn S. E. , Leung Victor Y. L.
Published: October 2020

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a major cause of low back pain, occurs with ageing. The core of the intervertebral disc, the nucleus pulposus (NP), embedded in a proteoglycan‐rich and gelatinous matrix, is derived from the embryonic notochord. With IDD, the NP becomes fibrous, containing fewer cells, which are fibroblastic and of unknown origin. Here, we used a lineage tracing strategy to investigate the origin of cells in the NP in injury‐induced mouse IDD. We established a Foxa2 notochord‐specific enhancer‐driven Cre transgenic mouse model (Foxa2mNE‐Cre) that acts only in the embryonic to foetal period up to E14.5, to genetically label notochord cells with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). When this mouse is crossed to one carrying a Cre recombinase reporter, Z/EG, EGFP‐labelled NP cells are present even at 2 years of age, consistent with their notochordal origin. We induced tail IDD in Foxa2mNE‐Cre; Z/EG mice by annulus puncture and observed the degenerative changes for 12 weeks. Soon after puncture, EGFP‐labelled NP cells showed strong Col2a1+ expression unlike uninjured control NP. Later, accompanying fibrotic changes, EGFP‐positive NP cells expressed fibroblastic and myofibroblastic markers such as Col1a1, ASMA, FAPA and FSP‐1. The number of EGFP+ cells co‐expressing the fibroblastic markers increased with time after puncture. Our findings suggest resident NP cells initially upregulate Col2a1+ and later transform into fibroblast‐like cells during injury‐mediated disc degeneration and remodelling. This important discovery concerning the cellular origin of fibrotic pathology in injury‐induced IDD has implications for management in disease and ageing.
Resting activity of the hippocampus and amygdala in obese individuals predicts their response to food cues
Authors: Li Guanya , Hu Yang , Zhang Wenchao , Ding Yueyan , Wang Yuanyuan , Wang Jia , He Yang , Lv Ganggang , von Deneen Karen M. , Zhao Yu , Chen Antao , Han Yu , Cui Guangbin , Ji Gang , Manza Peter , Tomasi Dardo , Volkow Nora D. , Nie Yongzhan , Wang Gene‐Jack , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2020

Obese individuals exhibit brain functional abnormalities in multiple regions implicated in reward/motivation, emotion/memory, homeostatic regulation, and executive control when exposed to food cues and during rest. However, it remains unclear whether abnormal brain responses to food cues might account for or relate to their abnormal activity in resting state. This information would be useful for understanding the neural mechanisms behind hyperactive responses to food cues, a critical marker of obesity. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS‐fMRI) and a cue‐reactivity fMRI task with high‐ (HiCal) and low‐caloric (LoCal) food cues were employed to investigate brain baseline activity and food cue‐induced activation differences in 44 obese participants (OB), in 37 overweight participants (OW), and in 37 normal weight (NW) controls. One‐way analyses of variance showed there was a group difference in the left hippocampus/amygdala activity during resting state and during food‐cue stimulation (pFWE < 0.05); post‐hoc tests showed the OB group had both greater basal activity and greater food cue‐induced activation than the OW and NW groups; OW had higher activity in the hippocampus/amygdala than the NW group, which was only significant during resting state. In the OB group, resting‐state activity in the left hippocampus/amygdala was positively correlated with activation induced by HiCal food cues, and both of these measures correlated with body mass index (BMI). Mediation analysis showed that the relationship between BMI and hippocampus/amygdala response to HiCal food cues was mediated by their resting‐state activity. These findings suggest a close association between obesity and brain functional abnormality in the hippocampus/amygdala. They also indicate that resting‐state activity in the hippocampus/amygdala may impact these regions' responses to food cues.
Setting Limits: Gambling, Science and Public Policy—summary of results
Authors: Sulkunen Pekka , Babor Thomas F. , Cisneros Örnberg Jenny , Egerer Michael , Hellman Matilda , Livingstone Charles , Marionneau Virve , Nikkinen Janne , Orford Jim , Room Robin , Rossow Ingeborg
Published: October 2020

The gambling industry has grown into a global business in the 21st century. This has created the need for a new emphasis on problem prevention. This article highlights the core themes of the book Setting Limits: Gambling, Science and Public Policy, taking a broad view of the consequences of gambling for society as a burden on health, well‐being and equality. The book covers the extent of gambling and gambling‐related problems in different societies and presents a critical review of research on industry practices, policy objectives and preventive approaches, including services to people suffering from gambling and its consequences. It discusses the developments in game characteristics and gambling environments and provides evidence on how regulation can affect those. Effective measures to minimize gambling harm exist and many are well supported by scientific evidence. They include restrictions on general availability as well as selective measures to prevent gamblers from overspending. The revenue generated from gambling for the industry, governments, and providers of public services funded from gambling returns presents an obstacle to developing policies to implement harm‐reduction measures. A public interest approach must weigh these interests against the suffering and losses of the victims of gambling.
Survival analysis after intramedullary stabilization for metastatic disease of the femur: prognostic value of common laboratory parameters
Authors: Willoughby James E. , Baker Joseph F.
Published: October 2020

Background

Metastatic disease of the femur confers significant morbidity and with improved survival due to advances in oncological treatment the prevalence in increasing. The aim of this study was to report on the outcomes of intramedullary stabilization for metastatic disease of the femoral shaft in a New Zealand centre and identify predictors of mortality.

Methods

Ten‐year retrospective review of clinical and radiographic records of patients treated with intramedullary stabilization for metastatic disease of the femur from a single tertiary referral hospital. Data on demographics, clinical and radiographic disease, laboratory markers, complications and mortality were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine predictors of mortality.

Results

A total of 82 patients were reviewed (median age 72.5 years; 51% female). The most common primary tumour type was breast cancer (33%). Mortality rate was 15% and 77% at 30 days and 1 year, respectively. Multivariate analysis determined higher albumin (hazard ratio (HR) 0.51; P = 0.014) and higher Karnofsky Performance Score (HR 0.95; P < 0.001) were associated with reduced mortality risk; higher platelet count (HR 2.14; P = 0.009) and higher platelet : lymphocyte ratio (HR 1.87; P = 0.027) were associated with increased mortality risk.

Conclusions

Mortality rates were similar to those reported in other regions. Simple laboratory markers including serum albumin, platelet count and the platelet : lymphocyte ratio can aid clinicians in providing prognosis with surgical intervention.
The use of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with ventricular assist devices: Is there hope for Factor Xa inhibition?
Authors: Meredith Thomas , Schnegg Bruno , Hayward Christopher
Published: October 2020

The use of continuous‐flow ventricular assist devices (cf‐VAD) necessitates systemic anticoagulation, routinely with vitamin K antagonists (VKA). Newer direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have significant advantages over VKA in providing a predictable level of systemic anticoagulation without frequent monitoring or strict dietary surveillance. Despite randomized evidence demonstrating their usefulness in several conditions including atrial fibrillation, there is limited data pertaining to their use in cf‐VAD patients. Early reports of adverse outcomes has resulted in a Class III recommendation, advising against DOACs generally in cf‐VAD patients. Recent reports suggest there may be a role for certain DOACs; as such we present a systematic review identifying studies reporting DOAC uses in patients with a cf‐VAD. We identified eight pertinent studies, including a single randomized controlled trial and seven case reports/series. Limited numbers and significant study heterogeneity limits interpretation; however, Factor Xa inhibitors appear to be feasible alternatives, favorable to direct thrombin inhibitors, although further research is required.