bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 ORF3a structure reveals chloride binding sites
Authors: Marquez-Miranda Valeria , Rojas Maximiliano , Duarte Yorley , Diaz-Franulic Ignacio , Holmgren Miguel , Cachau Raul E. , Gonzalez-Nilo Fernando D.
Published: October 2020

SARS-CoV-2 ORF3a is believed to form ion channels, which may be involved in the modulation of virus release, and has been implicated in various cellular processes like the up-regulation of fibrinogen expression in lung epithelial cells, downregulation of type 1 interferon receptor, caspase-dependent apoptosis, and increasing IFNAR1 ubiquitination. ORF3a assemblies as homotetramers, which are stabilized by residue C133. A recent cryoEM structure of a homodimeric complex of ORF3a has been released. A lower-resolution cryoEM map of the tetramer suggests two dimers form it, arranged side by side. The dimer’s cryoEM structure revealed that each protomer contains three transmembrane helices arranged in a clockwise configuration forming a six helices transmembrane domain. This domain’s potential permeation pathway has six constrictions narrowing to about 1 Å in radius, suggesting the structure solved is in a closed or inactivated state. At the cytosol end, the permeation pathway encounters a large and polar cavity formed by multiple beta strands from both protomers, which opens to the cytosolic milieu. We modeled the tetramer following the arrangement suggested by the low-resolution tetramer cryoEM map. Molecular dynamics simulations of the tetramer embedded in a membrane and solvated with 0.5 M of KCl were performed. Our simulations show the cytosolic cavity is quickly populated by both K+ and Cl-, yet with different dynamics. K+ ions moved relatively free inside the cavity without forming proper coordination sites. In contrast, Cl- ions enter the cavity, and three of them can become stably coordinated near the intracellular entrance of the potential permeation pathway by an inter-subunit network of positively charged amino acids. Consequently, the central cavity’s electrostatic potential changed from being entirely positive at the beginning of the simulation to more electronegative at the end.
Immunogenicity of a new gorilla adenovirus vaccine candidate for COVID-19
Authors: Capone Stefania , Raggioli Angelo , Gentile Michela , Battella Simone , Lahm Armin , Sommella Andrea , Contino Alessandra Maria , Urbanowicz Richard A. , Scala Romina , Barra Federica , Leuzzi Adriano , Lilli Eleonora , Miselli Giuseppina , Noto Alessia , Ferraiuolo Maria , Talotta Francesco , Tsoleridis Theocharis , Castilletti Concetta , Matusali Giulia , Colavita Francesca , Lapa Daniele , Meschi Silvia , Capobianchi Maria , Soriani Marco , Folgori Antonella , Ball Jonathan K. , Colloca Stefano , Vitelli Alessandra
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the emergent SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus threatens global public health and there is an urgent need to develop safe and effective vaccines. Here we report the generation and the preclinical evaluation of a novel replication-defective gorilla adenovirus-vectored vaccine encoding the pre-fusion stabilized Spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV2. We show that our vaccine candidate, GRAd- COV2, is highly immunogenic both in mice and macaques, eliciting both functional antibodies which neutralize SARS-CoV-2 infection and block Spike protein binding to the ACE2 receptor, and a robust, Th1- dominated cellular response in the periphery and in the lung. We show here that the pre-fusion stabilized Spike antigen is superior to the wild type in inducing ACE2-interfering, SARS-CoV2 neutralizing antibodies. To face the unprecedented need for vaccine manufacturing at massive scale, different GRAd genome deletions were compared to select the vector backbone showing the highest productivity in stirred tank bioreactors. This preliminary dataset identified GRAd-COV2 as a potential COVID-19 vaccine candidate, supporting the translation of GRAd-COV2 vaccine in a currently ongoing Phase I clinical trial (NCT04528641).
Unveiling the sensory and interneuronal pathways of the neuroendocrine connectome inDrosophila
Authors: Hückesfeld Sebastian , Schlegel Philipp , Miroschnikow Anton , Schoofs Andreas , Zinke Ingo , Haubrich André N , Schneider-Mizell Casey M , Truman James W , Fetter Richard D , Cardona Albert , Pankratz Michael J
Published: October 2020

Neuroendocrine systems in animals maintain organismal homeostasis and regulate stress response. Although a great deal of work has been done on the neuropeptides and hormones that are released and act on target organs in the periphery, the synaptic inputs onto these neuroendocrine outputs in the brain are less well understood. Here, we use the transmission electron microscopy reconstruction of a whole central nervous system in theDrosophilalarva to elucidate the sensory pathways and the interneurons that provide synaptic input to the neurosecretory cells projecting to the endocrine organs. Predicted by network modeling, we also identify a new carbon dioxide responsive network that acts on a specific set of neurosecretory cells and which include those expressing Corazonin (Crz) and Diuretic hormone 44 (DH44) neuropeptides. Our analysis reveals a neuronal network architecture for combinatorial action based on sensory and interneuronal pathways that converge onto distinct combinations of neuroendocrine outputs.
A Gut Microbial Peptide and Molecular Mimicry in the Pathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Girdhar Khyati , Huang Qian , Chow I-Ting , Brady Claudia , Raisingani Amol , Autissier Patrick , Atkinson Mark A. , Kwok William W. , Ronald Kahn C. , Altindis Emrah
Published: October 2020

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of pancreatic β-cells. One of the earliest aspects of this process is development of autoantibodies and T-cells directed at an epitope in the B-chain of insulin (insB:9-23). Analysis of microbial protein sequences with homology to insB:9-23 sequence revealed 17 peptides showing >50% identity to insB:9-23. Of these, one peptide, found in the normal human gut commensal Parabacteroides distasonis, activated both human T cell clones from T1D patients and T-cell hybridomas from non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice specific to insB:9-23. Immunization of NOD mice with P. distasonis insB:9-23 peptide mimic or insB:9-23 peptide verified immune cross-reactivity. Colonization of female NOD mice with P. distasonis accelerated the development of T1D, increasing macrophages, dendritic cells and destructive CD8+ T-cells, while decreasing FoxP3+ regulatory T-cells. Western blot analysis identified P. distasonis reacting antibodies in sera of NOD mice colonized with P. distasonis and human T1D patients. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of splenocytes from P. distasonis treated mice to NOD/SCID mice enhanced disease phenotype in the recipients. Finally, analysis of human infant gut microbiome data revealed that exposure of infants to P. distasonis may modulate disease pathogenesis. Taken together, these data demonstrate the potential role for an insB:9-23-mimimetic peptide from gut microbiota as a molecular trigger or modifier of T1D pathogenesis.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

In Type 1 diabetes (T1D), immune cells destroy pancreatic β-cells. The trigger of this response, however, is unknown. Some sequences (epitopes) in the insulin molecule form a major target for this autoimmune response. We have identified a sequence in a human gut bacterium that can mimetic this insulin epitope. Immune cells specific to insulin cross-react with this bacterial mimetic. Further, this bacterium can accelerate diabetes onset in a mouse model of T1D, inducing destructive and decreasing protective immune cells. We found this mimetic in the gut of children developing T1D. Furthermore, T1D patients have a stronger immune response to this bacterium compared to healthy individuals. Taken together, this bacterial mimetic in human gut has the potential to trigger/modify T1D onset.
The main activatory and tension-sensitive transitions occur within Prozac sensitive down-states of the potassium selective TREK-2 channel
Authors: Clausen Michael V. , Ulstrup Jakob , Poulsen Hanne , Nissen Poul
Published: October 2020

The two-pore domain potassium selective (K2P) ion-channels TREK-1, TREK-2, and TRAAK essential mechanical stimulation sensors, and TREK-1/2 also targets for the antidepressant Nor-fluoxetine (Prozac). They respond directly to membrane tension by moving from the “down” to “up” conformation, a transition that is associated with a rise in open-probability. However, the mechanosensitive K2P (mK2P) channels can also open while occupying the down conformation, and although these channels are mostly closed, all structural models represent seemingly open conformations. To understand the dynamics between open/closed and up/down states and determine how membrane tension influences transitions between specific conformations, we use a novel method to analyze tension-driven activation of single purified and reconstituted TREK-2 channels. We screen a panel of prospective schemes to find the mechanism that best accounts for specific TREK-2 characteristics as tension-driven activation, suppression by Nor-fluoxetine, and single-channel kinetics.

To adequately describe TREK-2 behavior, mechanistic schemes require two separate tension-sensitive transitions, one that occurs between distinct down conformations and one that moves the channel between down and up states. As membrane tension activates TREK-2, it is a transition within the structural down conformations that account for the major increase in open-probability (> 100 fold); the move from down to up further promotes channel opening, but with much lower potency (~3 fold activation).
Structural and biochemical characterization of the class II fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase from Francisella tularensis
Authors: Selezneva Anna I. , Gutka Hiten J. , Wolf Nina M. , Qurratulain Fnu , Movahedzadeh Farahnaz , Abad-Zapatero Celerino
Published: October 2020

The crystal structure of the class II fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPaseII) from the important pathogen Francisella tularensis is presented at 2.4 Å resolution. Its structural and functional relationships to the closely related phosphatases from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MtFBPaseII) and Escherichia coli (EcFBPaseII) and to the dual phosphatase from Synechocystis strain 6803 are discussed. FBPaseII from F. tularensis (FtFBPaseII) was crystallized in a monoclinic crystal form (space group P21, unit-cell parameters a = 76.30, b = 100.17, c = 92.02 Å, β = 90.003°) with four chains in the asymmetric unit. Chain A had two coordinated Mg2+ ions in its active center, which is distinct from previous findings, and is presumably deactivated by their presence. The structure revealed an approximate 222 (D
2) symmetry homotetramer analogous to that previously described for MtFBPaseII, which is formed by a crystallographic dyad and which differs from the exact tetramer found in EcFBPaseII at a 222 symmetry site in the crystal. Instead, the approximate homotetramer is very similar to that found in the dual phosphatase from Synechocystis, even though no allosteric effector was found in FtFBPase. The amino-acid sequence and folding of the active site of FtFBPaseII result in structural characteristics that are more similar to those of the previously published EcFBPaseII than to those of MtFBPaseII. The kinetic parameters of native FtFBPaseII were found to be in agreement with published studies. Kinetic analyses of the Thr89Ser and Thr89Ala mutations in the active site of the enzyme are consistent with the previously proposed mechanism for other class II bisphosphatases. The Thr89Ala variant enzyme was inactive but the Thr89Ser variant was partially active, with an approximately fourfold lower K
m and V
max than the native enzyme. The structural and functional insights derived from the structure of FtFBPaseII will provide valuable information for the design of specific inhibitors.
Rheology of hydromagnetic viscoelastic fluid subjected to dissipation aspect
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Nisar Ubaid Ahmed , Khan Muhammad Ijaz , Shehzad Sabir Ali
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the impact of gravity induced stretching flow of second grade liquid subject to thermal radiation. The flow is generated by the stretching of an impermeable cylinder. Stagnation point flow is considered. Convective type boundary conditions are applied on temperature and concentration. The present investigation further includes the aspects of magnetohydrodynamics, Joule heating, chemical reaction and viscous dissipation and heat generation/absorption.

Design/methodology/approach

The ordinary differential expressions are formed using suitable similarity transformations from the governing partial differential expressions. The subsequent nonlinear ordinary differential expressions are solved analytically using homotopy concept to report the consequences of different dimensionless physical parameters in graphical and tabular forms.

Findings

The results witnessed that increasing values of curvature parameter corresponds to higher temperature and concentration. Besides this, the impacts of destructive and constructive chemical processes on the concentration distribution are noted opposite.

Originality/

No such analysis has yet been reported.
A citizen-centred approach to CSR in banking
Authors: van Hierden Yannick Thomas , Dietrich Timo , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study aims to demonstrate how banks can align their CSR investment to community needs and citizen preferences. A grounded theory inductive approach is applied to deliver a community-centred process that banks can apply to inform CSR investment decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a sequential mixed-method research design to identify areas of need from the perspective of community leaders and members through depth interviews. Following thematic analysis, citizen preferences for eight priority areas were elicited using best-worst scaling (BWS).

Findings

Clear investment preferences emerged with citizens preferring six community investment causes, namely, (1) infrastructure, (2) crisis and prevention support, (3) community groups, (4) youth facilities and activities, (5) initiatives that support the local environment, and (6) physical activity promotion. The forming of community advisory committees emerged as one approach that banks could apply to ensure long-term citizen-centred CSR investment decisions.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to one community and one community bank and a small convenience, cross-sectional data sample.

Social implications

Community-oriented financial institutions should centre investment decisions on community need and citizen preferences ensuring investments made deliver the greatest societal benefit and community support for the banks is garnered.

Originality/value

This paper provides important contributions to improve the effectiveness of CSR initiatives, providing an inductive, methodological approach that financial institutions can follow to better align their CSR investment to community needs and preferences.
Friction characteristics of moving joint surface from the micro and macro scale
Authors: Hai Lixin , Gao Feng , Li Yan , Yang Bo , Zhu Yanyan
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The nonlinear friction disturbance of the moving joint surface of the feed system can lead to the residual vibration of the system, prolong the stability time of the system and reduce the motion precision and machining precision of the machine tool. This paper aims to concern the vibration between joint surfaces caused by nonlinear friction.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is established from the micro and macro scale based on the LuGre model. The friction characteristics of the moving joint surface are explored. The friction experiment of GCr15 pin and 45 steel disk is designed and the influence of lubrication condition, speed, acceleration and normal load on friction characteristics are studied.

Findings

Among the drive speed, damping and stiffness, the negative gradient effect of friction, which is characterized by the difference of static and dynamic friction coefficient Δµ, is the main cause of friction vibration between moving joint surfaces. Sufficient lubrication, a proper increase of speed and acceleration, a reasonable reduction of normal load can reduce the negative gradient effect, which can weaken the vibration caused by the nonlinear friction and improve the friction characteristics of the moving joint surface.

Originality/value

In the past studies, more attention has been paid to revealing the relationship between the relative speed and friction, while the acceleration is often ignored. The negative gradient effect of friction is improved in this paper by changing the contact conditions. Research findings of this paper effectively improve the friction characteristics of the moving interface and provide the basis for restraining the nonlinear vibration between the moving interfaces.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-11-2019-0476/
The impact of method choice on the risk of contraceptive discontinuation: Egypt 2014
Authors: Khalifa Mona , Abdel Aziz Hussein Wafaa , Metwally Soha
Published: October 2020

Purpose

In Egypt, the IUD is the most common contraceptive method since 1988 and has remained so despite a recent drop in its share from 59.9% in 2008 to 51.5% in 2014 in favour of hormonal methods, which increased from 19.7% for pills and 12.3% for injectables in 2008 to 27.4% and 14.5% in 2014 according to 2014 Egypt demographic and health survey (EDHS). The recent shift away from intrauterine contraceptive device (IUDs) to hormonal methods have contributed to increased discontinuation. This paper aims to answer three questions: To what extent does the method type influence the hazard of contraceptive discontinuation in Egypt? Is the interaction between method type and duration of use a predictor of the probability of discontinuation after controlling other variables? What are the other important background variables that affect the hazard of contraceptive discontinuation?

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from EDHS2014, separate multilevel discrete-time proportional hazard models for events of interest (abandoned use while in need, switched to another method in the month following discontinuation and method failure) were built.

Findings

Only IUD users are significantly less likely to abandon use while in need and to experience method failure and a reduced risk of switching. During the first 6–10 months of use, all types of discontinuation can be significantly reduced for all three methods. Demographic variables do not significantly affect abandonment but strongly affect switching and significantly affect failure. Socio-economic variables do not significantly affect abandonment and switching. Exposure to media has a significant effect on abandonment but not on switching. Community contraceptive prevalence rate strongly affects switching.

Originality/value

Results confirm that the counselling should be more intense during the first year of method use and should pay special attention to women who are 25 years old and above and those who have two or more children. Also, media campaigns are important and especially those addressing the issue of abandoning while in need.
Bridging job search and perceived employability in the labour market – a mediation model of job search, perceived employability and learning goal orientation
Authors: K.A. Zakkariya , P.M. Nimmi , A. Smitha Pradeep
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Perceived employability (PE) is considered as a significant psychological resource that aids individuals in tackling the complex career snags he/she faces. The purpose of this study is to develop and empirically test a theoretical model that explains how PE affects two types of job search behaviour (JSB) by bringing in job search learning goal orientation (JSLGO) as mediator and work experience as a moderator. The model is conceptualised in the backdrop of self-regulation theory and conservation of resource theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional study of 319 management graduates, the authors examined the effect of JSLGO and PE on both active and preparatory job search of graduates. Structural equation modelling (SEM) using IBM-AMOS was conducted on the cross-sectional data collected from management graduates in India.

Findings

An empirical analysis using SEM unravelled that JSLGO mediated the relationship between preparatory job search and PE but did not intervene in the relationship between active job search and PE. The study also looked into the moderating role of work experience and it was found to be a significant moderator in the PE and job search – active relationship.

Practical implications

Work experience helps students in active job search stage which can lead to quick employment gains. Real job experience could be gained through work-integrated learning and on the job training, as they will enhance the exposure of students to real-life work situations. Higher levels of JSLGO indicate a more strategic approach and aiming a quality career. Learning goal orientation training should be embedded in the curriculum, as management education is all about preparing students for the world of work.

Originality/value

The current research has uniquely contributed to the limited literature on the importance of developing PE amongst management graduates and its consequence on job search. The study makes an important contribution to the theory and practices on job search by enhancing our understanding of the mechanism that governs PE and JSB relationship through goal orientation.
Implementing ‘cleanliness is half of faith’ in re-designing tourists, experiences and salvaging the hotel industry in Malaysia during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Awan Maheen Iqbal , Shamim Amjad , Ahn Jiseon
Published: October 2020

Purpose

In the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, organizations now are expected to serve customers who are highly conscious of safety and sanitation. Among others, the hospitality industry is significantly and negatively influenced by this pandemic. Given the unique characteristics of services, using advanced technology is not enough to create a memorable experience without physical interaction between service providers and customers. Thus, this study aims to define the “new normal” for service customers and to explore the “new service design” for the hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

As most of the Southeast Asian countries heavily rely on the tourism industry, this study focuses on one of the emerging tourism destinations in this region, Malaysia. The data is collected through in-depth interviews with 17 potential national and international tourists.

Findings

The results suggest that considering the “new normal” for customers, there is an immediate need for the hotel industry to revamp their service design by mainly practicing disinfection and sanitation activities, re-designing overall infrastructure and introducing promotional offers.

Originality/value

This study is novel in its kind as it provides useful guidelines for both practitioners and academicians/researchers. Under this crucial time, very few research is conducted specifically focusing on the hotel industry and tourists’ behaviors amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The study will provide in-depth knowledge about tourists’ expectations from the hotel services, especially in their own voices.
Entrepreneurial intentions: personal and cultural variations
Authors: Litzky Barrie , Winkel Doan , Hance Jennifer , Howell Ryan
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the personal and contextual factors that influence entrepreneurial intention between two student populations from the United States and Portugal.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were obtained through the Entrepreneurship Education Project, a large study that collected over 17,000 responses from students in 70 countries. A subset of this data resulted in 3,008 responses from students in the United States and 1,026 respondents in Portugal. The model predicted that entrepreneurial intention would be influenced by entrepreneurial capital and entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE), and that the model results would be stronger in the US than in Portugal.

Findings

The main effect hypotheses were supported while moderating effect hypotheses were not, although post hoc analysis revealed some interesting culturally relevant anecdotes.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the generalizability of previously established antecedents of entrepreneurial intention to two highly different cultural contexts – the United States and individuals from Portugal. The cross-sectional, correlational nature of the survey limits the findings to one point in time.

Practical implications

Findings suggest that having the opportunity to start a business as part of entrepreneurship education may provide useful in not only enhancing ESE but also in entrepreneurial intentions. Programs might consider including starting a business, either a new venture, or as part of a corporate program as part of the degree requirement. It may be that starting a business will provide critical experience students need to choose entrepreneurship as a career.

Originality/value

This research explored the similarities and differences in characteristics between students from a highly individualistic nation with low uncertainty avoidance (United States) and one that is more collectivist and less uncertainty avoidant (Portugal). Findings highlight the importance of entrepreneurial capital, ESE and the role that culture plays in students' entrepreneurial intentions.
Social norms, organizational learning and bribes in emerging economies: a study of foreign invested firms in Vietnam
Authors: Vuong Binh T.T. , Nguyen Thang V. , Phan Ngoc T.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Drawing from institutional theory and organizational learning perspectives, the purpose of this paper is to examine how social norms of corruption in home countries and those in host localities influence firm bribery behavior. It also investigates factors that moderate the influence of these norms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on survey data of foreign invested firms (FIFs) in Vietnam, conducted by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry between 2010 and 2018 along with Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index. The authors run ordinary least squares regressions to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study provides evidence that social norms of corruption in both home countries and host localities influence firms’ bribery behavior, but their effects are moderated by different sets of factors. Specifically, the use of local leadership augments the impact of the host province’s corruption norms on the firm’s bribe payments. By contrast, the relationship between the home country’s corruption norms and a FIF’s bribe payment is weaker if local leadership is used, and stronger if the FIF’s home country belongs to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Research limitations/implications

Repeated cross-sectional data do not allow us to genuinely keep track of the changing roles of home country and host province corruption norms over time. In addition, the use of perception measures for corruption norms is subject to potential biases.

Practical implications

As the hiring of local executives weakens the impact of the home country’s norms which are embedded in the MNCs’ general practices, a stronger learning measure and regular review of the headquarters’ policies and practices is needed to ensure the overseas branch’s compliance. For policymakers, it is critical to recognize that local corruption plays a role in shaping FIFs’ bribery behavior.

Originality/value

While the effect of social norms of corruption on firm bribery behavior has been recognized, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that examines the learning processes FIFs may take to make sense of and cope with these norms, and also the first one to specify factors that moderate the influence of these norms.
Colombia: innovation, trust and emotions during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Varón Sandoval Alexander , González Calixto Mónica Bibiana , Ramírez Salazar María del Pilar
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to reflect on some actions carried out in Colombia, both at the governmental and organizational levels, that can be considered collaborative innovations and that have emerged within this pandemic context seeking to generate an increase in trust and the awakening of others’ emotions, as well as manifestations or expressions of trust and emotions by the population.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a qualitative descriptive study, innovation strategies applied by different sectors to address the current situation of preventive isolation are identified, with the subsequent identification of manifestations resulting from the execution of the strategies and analyzes of the implications in terms of emotions and confidence as research constructs.

Findings

Actions taken by the public administration, instead of generating trust and instilling positive emotions, have generated the opposite and there is evidence of greater acceptance of actions when they come from the general population through strategies that can be assimilated into the application of open collaborative innovation.

Originality/value

This study raises future research challenges, in addition to the practical implications that it may have in terms of the vision of the role of the state and citizens and the impact of administrative decisions regarding the generation of trust and the presence of positive emotions in a crisis context.
Detection of buried explosives with immobilized bacterial bioreporters
Authors: Shemer Benjamin , Shpigel Etai , Hazan Carina , Kabessa Yossef , Agranat Aharon J. , Belkin Shimshon
Published: October 2020

The unchecked dispersal of antipersonnel landmines since the late 19th century has resulted in large areas contaminated with these explosive devices, creating a substantial worldwide humanitarian safety risk. The main obstacle to safe and effective landmine removal is the identification of their exact location, an activity that currently requires entry of personnel into the minefields; to date, there is no commercialized technology for an efficient stand‐off detection of buried landmines. In this article, we describe the optimization of a microbial sensor strain, genetically engineered for the remote detection of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoloune (TNT)‐based mines. This bioreporter, designed to bioluminescence in response to minute concentrations of either TNT or 2,4‐dinitotoluene (DNT), was immobilized in hydrogel beads and optimized for dispersion over the minefield. Following modifications of the hydrogel matrix in which the sensor bacteria are encapsulated, as well as their genetic reporting elements, these sensor bacteria sensitively detected buried 2,4‐dinitrotoluene in laboratory experiments. Encapsulated in 1.5 mm 2% alginate beads containing 1% polyacrylic acid, they also detected the location of a real metallic antipersonnel landmine under field conditions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating the detection of a buried landmine with a luminescent microbial bioreporter.
Estimation of a term structure model of carbon prices through state space methods: The European Union emissions trading scheme
Authors: Aspinall Thomas , Gepp Adrian , Harris Geoff , Kelly Simone , Southam Colette , Vanstone Bruce
Published: October 2020

This study models the term structure of the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme. The one‐factor geometric Brownian motion model of Abadie and Chamorro is replicated using the data now available and then compared with a two‐factor short‐term/long‐term (STLT) stochastic model. The STLT model has the better statistical fit to the term structure of European Union Allowances (EUAs). A real options analysis of the value of the option to retrofit carbon capture and storage shows that forecasting phase four EUAs with the STLT model almost triples the estimated project net present value and lowers investment trigger prices by approximately 24 percent.
Effects of protein supplementation on muscle wasting disorders: A brief update of the evidence
Authors: Kirk Ben , Iuliano Sandra , Daly Robin M. , Duque Gustavo
Published: October 2020

Objective

To examine the effects of protein supplementation on muscle mass, strength and function in individuals at risk of muscle wasting disorders.

Methods

A narrative overview of the literature based on a PubMed search.

Results

Increasing protein intake beyond the recommended dietary intake may prevent or attenuate muscle loss in people at risk of muscle wasting disorders; however, there is inconsistent evidence for any benefits on muscle strength or physical function. This is likely due to the significant heterogeneity and bias regarding baseline demographics, basal protein/energy intakes and protein supplement type, dose, timing and compliance.

Conclusion

Protein supplementation attenuates muscle loss in some populations at increased risk of muscle wasting, but there is no consistent evidence to support benefits on muscle strength or physical function. Further randomised controlled trials are needed that focus on whether there is an optimal type, dose and timing of protein intake, and potential interaction with other nutrients.
Liver complications of haemoglobin H disease in adults
Authors: Chan Luke K. L. , Mak Vivien W. M. , Chan Stanley C. H. , Yu Ellen L. M. , Chan Nelson C. N. , Leung Kate F. S. , Ng Carmen K. M. , Ng Margaret H. L. , Chan Joyce C. W. , Lee Harold K. K.
Published: October 2020

Haemoglobin H (HbH) disease is a type of non‐transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia. This cross‐sectional study aimed at determining the prevalence and severity of liver iron overload and liver fibrosis in patients with HbH disease. Risk factors for advanced liver fibrosis were also identified. A total of 80 patients were evaluated [median (range) age 53 (24–79) years, male 34%, non‐deletional HbH disease 24%]. Patients underwent ‘observed’ T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging examination for liver iron concentration (LIC) quantification, and transient elastography for liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and fibrosis staging. In all, 25 patients (31%) had moderate‐to‐severe liver iron overload (LIC ≥7 mg/g dry weight). The median LIC was higher in non‐deletional than in deletional HbH disease (7·8 vs. 2.9 mg/g dry weight, P = 0·002). In all, 16 patients (20%) had advanced liver fibrosis (LSM >7.9 kPa) and seven (9%) out of them had probable cirrhosis (LSM >11.9 kPa). LSM positively correlated with age (R = 0·24, P = 0·03), serum ferritin (R = 0·36, P = 0·001) and LIC (R = 0·28, P = 0·01). In multivariable regression, age ≥65 years [odds ratio (OR) 4·97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·52–17·50; P = 0·047] and moderate‐to‐severe liver iron overload (OR 3·47, 95% CI 1·01–12·14; P = 0·01) were independently associated with advanced liver fibrosis. The findings suggest that regular screening for liver complications should be considered in the management of HbH disease.
The effect of rational‐emotive education on irrational thinking, subjective wellbeing and self‐efficacy of typically developing students and social acceptance of disabled students
Authors: Kabasakal Esma , Emiroğlu Oya Nuran
Published: October 2020

Aim

This study aimed to assess the effects of rational‐emotive education on the rational thinking, subjective well‐being and self‐efficacy of typical students and their levels of social acceptance of disabled students in mainstream classrooms.

Background

Rational‐emotive education exercises can be important for eliminating typical students' problem behaviours, such as poor acceptance of disabled classmates, in mainstream classrooms.

Method

The study was conducted between 25 October 2017 and 17 January 2018 at two middle schools located in Ankara, Turkey. A quasi‐experimental design and nonequivalent control group were used. The research sample consisted of 212 typical students and 16 disabled students from the middle schools. A socio‐demographic questionnaire and the Irrational Beliefs Scale for Adolescents, Adolescent Subjective Well‐being Scale, General Self‐Efficacy Scale and Social Acceptance Scale were used to collect data. Students in the intervention group participated in a 12‐week rational‐emotive education programme.

Results

The results showed that, for the students who took part in the rational emotive‐education programme, there was a significant increase in subjective well‐being, self‐efficacy and social acceptance of peers with special needs, and a significant reduction in irrational beliefs, compared to those in the control group (p < 0.001). Social Validity Questionnaire, which was completed by the parents of the students with special needs to assess the social validity and the effects of the intervention, indicated that the rational‐emotive education programme provided a positive classroom atmosphere, which positively affected the disabled students.

Conclusions

The study results supported previous findings on rational‐emotive education, which has been adopted in Turkey and in the world as a humanistic approach. Rational‐emotive education can be used in mental and school health nursing to increase social acceptance of the disabled students, and to eliminate their social–emotional problems, and to create a positive classroom atmosphere for all students.
The dissolution of the Lebanese parliament: A perverted application of the parliamentary system
Authors: Badran Simon
Published: October 2020

This article examines the serious shortcomings of the procedure of dissolution of the Lebanese Parliament under the First Republic and its paralysis during the Second Republic due to the influence of confessional mechanisms. A close examination of the Lebanese legal system makes it possible to distinguish two sets of disparate constitutional norms. On the one hand, there is the enshrinement of traditional constitutional principles under the purview of parliamentarianism. On the other hand, there is the adoption of a confessional regime of representation and power‐sharing. The two sets of divergent legal norms coexist and co‐function at the intersection of secular democratic principles and the multi‐confessional composition of the Lebanese society. Notable in this regard is the power of dissolution of the Parliament which was amended in 1990 to be consistent with the Lebanese confessional formula in a way that renders it entirely ineffective.
Interventional echocardiography: Opportunities and challenges in an emerging field
Authors: Lee James , Chen Tiffany , Gill Edward
Published: October 2020

The growth of transcatheter structural heart disease interventions has created a subspecialty of interventional imagers who focus on preprocedural planning and the periprocedural guidance of these complex cases. In particular interventional imagers who focus on periprocedural guidance have developed a specific expertise in interventional transesophageal echocardiography (iTEE). This nascent field has challenges in training, reimbursement, and occupational hazards which are unique to this field. This review encompasses the evolution of iTEE, current challenges, and future opportunities.
Gilds, states and societies in the early Middle Ages
Authors: Naismith Rory
Published: October 2020

The early medieval gilds of north‐west Europe were very different from their later medieval descendants. They were not specifically urban or economic in focus, instead being based on religious devotion, feasting and mutual protection, usually among members united by status and geography. Treatment of gilds differed sharply between the two main representatives of the tradition in the region: the Carolingian empire and Anglo‐Saxon England. In the former, gilds were vilified as coniurationes, spontaneous oath‐bound associations, which rulers feared might undermine their authority and that of the hierarchy they represented. But in the latter gilds flourished, especially in the tenth and eleventh centuries, when England produced the first gild statutes of medieval Europe. This contribution examines these two traditions, and the reasons for the break between them.
Dividend commitment in firm bylaws and capital structure change
Authors: Cheng Linyin , Wang Guojun , Wang Yuetang , Yang Dan
Published: October 2020

Dividend policies can predict changes in capital structure. We focus on a unique setting, namely, dividend commitment emerging from a new dividend policy in China, and explore its relation to leverage. We find a commitment to increase dividends is associated with a subsequent reduction in leverage, and this negative relation is enhanced in firms without preliminary conditions specified for their commitments or with greater dividend smoothing in previous periods. Robustness tests support the main findings. Further analysis addresses four internal mechanisms that play essential roles in the above link, and we provide further details about how leverage is reduced.
Management of patients with severe haemophilia a without inhibitors on prophylaxis with emicizumab: AICE recommendations with focus on emergency in collaboration with SIBioC, SIMEU, SIMEUP, SIPMeL and SISET
Authors: Coppola Antonio , Castaman Giancarlo , Santoro Rita C. , Mancuso Maria Elisa , Franchini Massimo , Marino Renato , Rivolta Gianna Franca , Santoro Cristina , Zanon Ezio , Sciacovelli Laura , Manca Salvatore , Lubrano Riccardo , Golato Maria , Tripodi Armando , Rocino Angiola ,   the ad hoc Working Group
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The factor VIII (FVIII)‐mimetic bispecific monoclonal antibody, emicizumab, previously approved for prophylaxis in haemophilia A with inhibitors, has been recently licensed in several countries also in patients with severe haemophilia A (PWSHA) without inhibitors. The introduction of this innovative agent requires the development of specific pathways at Haemophilia Treatment Centres (HTC), particularly regarding laboratory testing and treatment of breakthrough bleeds and invasive procedures/surgeries, even more critical when patients are managed by non‐specialist professionals. Limited literature data and clinical experience in PWSHA without inhibitors on emicizumab are currently available.

Aim

To promote awareness and overcome these challenges, the Italian Association of Haemophilia Centres (AICE) issued a guidance on the management of PWSHA without inhibitors on emicizumab prophylaxis, focused on emergency and shared with other National Scientific Societies in the field.

Methods

The document, drafted by an AICE expert panel and approved through online consultation, was further revised by a multidisciplinary working group, including members of 5 haemostasis, laboratory and emergency scientific societies. The final version was approved by the Council of each society.

Results

General recommendations about use of FVIII concentrates for the treatment of bleeding or haemostatic coverage of invasive procedures/surgeries and laboratory monitoring in PWSHA without inhibitors on emicizumab are provided. Specific issues of the management in the emergency room are focused, highlighting the need for direct involvement or formalized supervision by specialist HTC physicians.

Conclusions

This guidance provides a reference pathway to be implemented in the different healthcare organizations, especially for the challenging emergency management in this setting.
Effects of Emicizumab on APTT, FVIII assays and FVIII Inhibitor assays using different reagents: Results of a UK NEQAS proficiency testing exercise
Authors: Lowe Anna , Kitchen Steve , Jennings Ian , Kitchen Dianne P. , Woods Tim A. L. , Walker Isobel D.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Emicizumab (Hemlibra: Roche Switzerland) is a, humanized, bi‐specific monoclonal modified immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) which binds human FX, FIX and activated FIX (FIXa) to mimic activated FVIII activity.

Aim

Evaluate the effects of emicizumab on the APTT, surrogate FVIII activity and FVIII inhibitor results.

Methods

Two samples were provided, one obtained from an emicizumab treated severe haemophilia A patient with FVIII inhibitors and one constructed by in vitro addition of emicizumab using plasma from a severe haemophilia A patient without FVIII inhibitors. An APTT screen, surrogate FVIII and FVIII inhibitor tests were performed on both samples by participating centres.

Results

APTT results were below the lower limit of normal range. Chromogenic FVIII assay results with the Hyphen/Biophen human component‐based assay gave higher than expected coefficient of variation (CV) results, 38%–40%. The modified one‐stage FVIII assay with emicizumab calibrators showed similar results regardless of the APTT reagent. Inhibitor assay median results for sample S18:23 = 1.43 BU (range 0.9‐3.0 BU/ml, CV 38%). S18:24 was classified as below the lower limit of detection.

Conclusion

APTT screens showed a consistent shortening. Unmodified one‐stage Factor VIII assay results were remarkably high. APTT‐based assays are unsuitable for measurement of coagulation factors or inhibitors in patients treated with emicizumab. Bovine origin chromogenic assays are insensitive to emicizumab and should be used to monitor FVIII levels/FVIII inhibitors in emicizumab treated patients. Product‐specific calibrators should be implemented to reduce result variability.
“Fake news” in dermatology. Results from an observational, cross‐sectional study
Authors: Iglesias‐Puzas Álvaro , Conde‐Taboada Alberto , Aranegui‐Arteaga Beatriz , López‐Bran Eduardo
Published: October 2020

Background

Social networks have become a means for disseminating information on health‐related matters.

Objective

Describe the characteristics and analyze the accuracy of the dermatology content that is most often shared on the most popular social networks.

Materials and methods

The content most often shared on social networks (Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Reddit) between March 2019 and March 2020 was analyzed using the keywords: acne, alopecia/hair loss, psoriasis, eczema, melanoma, skin cancer, rash, and rosacea. The total number of interactions, skin disease, topic, and origin was collected from each of the records. The content was analyzed and was categorized as precise, confusing, or imprecise based on the scientific evidence available.

Results

A total of 385 websites were included. About 44.7% of the shared content was rated as imprecise, 20% as confusing, and 35.3% as precise. The records classified as imprecise obtained a higher mean number of interactions (P < 0.05). No differences were found in terms of the level of certainty and the dermatosis studied, whereas they did exist in relation to their topic and origin (P < 0.001). Of the contents classified as imprecise, the most frequent topic and origin were "alternative medicines" and "individual opinions, articles not affiliated with health institutions, nor peer reviewed," respectively.

Conclusions

The majority of the contents often shared on social networks are below acceptable quality standards. Strategies are needed to discredit imprecise information and promote the dissemination of evidence‐based dermatology information.