bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dynamic Model of Firm Valuation
Authors: Lazzati Natalia , Menichini Amilcar A.
Published: July 2018

We propose a dynamic version of the dividend discount model, solve it in closed form, and assess its empirical validity. The valuation method is tractable and can be easily implemented. We find that our model produces equity value forecasts that are very close to market prices, and explains a large proportion of the observed variation in share prices. Moreover, we show that a simple portfolio strategy based on the difference between market and estimated values earns considerably positive returns. These returns cannot be simply explained either by the Fama‐French three‐factor model (even after adding a momentum factor) or the Fama‐French five‐factor model.
Investor Recognition and Post‐Acquisition Performance of Acquirers
Authors: Cui Di
Published: July 2018

The literature has documented a negative relation between investor recognition and expected returns. This negative relation is consistent with the prediction in Merton (1987, Journal of Finance 42, 483–510). This paper investigates whether the changes in investor recognition of acquirers around the time of the acquisitions can explain the post‐acquisition underperformance of acquirer stocks. Using a large sample of U.S. acquisitions from 1980 to 2010, this paper finds that investor recognition, proxied by the number of institutional investors and the number of common shareholders, increases significantly during acquisitions. Once the increases in investor recognition are controlled for, the “puzzling” long‐run underperformances of acquirers disappears.
The Wealth Effects of Fairness Opinions in Takeovers
Authors: Liu Tingting
Published: July 2018

This paper explores the wealth effects associated with a bidder's decision to solicit a fairness opinion in a takeover transaction. Using a hand‐collected sample with bidders’ filing proxy statements, this paper finds that the use of fairness opinions does not negatively affect bidder shareholders’ wealth, a finding that contradicts prior studies’ findings. In addition, I find a positive wealth effect associated with bidder use of fairness opinions in the post‐Rule 2290 period. Collectively, these results are consistent with a fairness opinion being used by bidder management as a means to facilitate transactions rather than a mechanism to entrench management.
Reasons for Manuscript Rejection After Peer Review From the Journal Headache
Authors: Hesterman Chelsea M. , Szperka Christina L. , Turner Dana P.
Published: July 2018

Objective

To identify and characterize the reasons manuscripts are rejected after peer review from the journal Headache.

Background

Numerous editorials, reviews, and research manuscripts have been published on the topic of manuscript rejection. However, few of these papers evaluate the reasons for rejection after peer review systematically. None are specific to the field of neurology or headache medicine.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all submissions to Headache from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016 was performed. Peer reviewer and editor comments for each manuscript were reviewed, and unlimited reasons for rejection were coded for each manuscript. Detailed reasons for rejection were then grouped into 9 broader categories.

Results

A total of 784 submissions were received from January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2016. Of those, 336 were immediately rejected and 434 went on to peer review. During this period, the overall rejection rate was 62.6% and the rejection rate after peer review was 35.7%. The 6 most common reasons for rejection after peer review were: flaws in methodology and study design, poor reporting of methodology, poor statistical analysis, overstatement of conclusions, problems with covariates or outcomes, and problems with the control or case group.

Conclusion

Flaws in methodology and study design were the most common reasons for rejection after peer review from Headache between 2014‐2016.
Diet of Neotropical parrots is independent of phylogeny but correlates with body size and geographical range
Authors: Benavidez Analia , Palacio Facundo Xavier , Rivera Luis Osvaldo , Echevarria Ada Lilian , Politi Natalia
Published: July 2018

Body mass and geographical range are two main drivers of diet in animals, yet how these factors influence diet in the morphologically and ecologically diverse avian group of Psittaciformes is little known. We reviewed current knowledge of the diet of Neotropical parrots and assessed the relation between diet (breadth and composition), phylogeny, body mass and geographical range. Diet has been documented for 98 of 165 species, but information is available only for 34 of 59 threatened species, and countries with high species diversity (> 20 species) had few studies (one to seven). Neotropical parrot species consumed 1293 plant species of 125 families. When assessing the relative frequency of different food items in the diet (seed, fruits, flowers, leaves, nectar, bark and stems), we found that parrots mostly exploited seeds (41.9%) and fruits (38.3%) of native species. Diet overlap was very low among genera (0.006–0.321). At the species level, geographical range and body size explained the variation in diet composition. In particular, small parrots of restricted distribution had a distinct diet composition relative to either large or widely distributed species. Although body size and geographical range showed phylogenetic inertia, diet was independent of phylogenetic history. Our review not only reveals ecological factors explaining diet in a generalist group but also exposes information gaps across the Neotropical region.
Pemphigus herpetiformis in South Tunisia: a clinical expression of pemphigus foliaceus?
Authors: Jerbi Ameni , Hachicha Hend , Feki Sawsan , Bahloul Emna , Sellami Khadija , Abida Olfa , Charfi Slim , Bouzid Amina , Sellami Boudawara Tahia , Turki Hamida , Masmoudi Abderrahmen , Masmoudi Hatem
Published: July 2018

Background

Pemphigus herpetiformis (PH) is a rare subtype of pemphigus combining clinical features of dermatitis herpetiformis and the immunopathologic characteristics of pemphigus. We aimed to analyze the epidemiological, clinical, and immunological presentation and management of the disease in a cohort of south Tunisian patients with a long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

We included all patients with confirmed PH followed from January 1987 to December 2015 in the dermatology department.

Results

We included 24 south Tunisian female patients with a mean age of 36 years (20–63), mainly from rural origin (84%). All patients had exclusive skin lesions. Clinical features combined erythematous, vesicular, or bullous lesions, with circinate borders mainly on the trunk and limbs associated with severe pruritus (91%). Peripheral hypereosinophilia was noted in 31% of cases. Histological examination demonstrated no intraepithelial (50%), suprabasal (35%), or subcorneal cleavage (15%). Eosinophilic spongiosis was seen in 42% of cases. On direct immunofluorescence, there was an intercellular staining in 96% of cases composed mainly of IgG and C3 (79%). Indirect immunofluorescence was positive in 71% of cases. Reactivity was mainly directed against Dsg1. Dapsone alone was inefficient. All patients received systemic corticosteroids. Most patients (64%) relapsed. Iatrogenic complications and cutaneous infections were noted in 40% and 16% of cases, respectively.

Conclusion

PH is characterized by the occurrence of exclusive skin lesions in young women with a good response to corticosteroids but not to Dapsone. Reactivity mainly against Dsg1 suggests that PH in south Tunisia is a particular variant of nonendemic pemphigus foliaceus.
Current strategies exploiting NK‐cell therapy to treat haematologic malignancies
Authors: Johnson Jenna K. , Miller Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2018

Natural killer (NK) cells recognize targets that have been changed via malignant transformation or infection. Previously, NK cells were thought to be short‐lived, but we now know that NK cells can be long‐lived and remember past exposures in response to CMV. NK cells use a plethora of activating and inhibitory receptors to recognize these changes and attack targets, but tumour cells often evade NK cells. Therefore, major efforts are being made to hone in on NK cell antitumour properties in immunotherapy. In the clinical setting, haploidentical NK cells can be adoptively transferred to help treat cancer. To expand NK cells in vivo and enhance tumour targeting, IL‐15 is being tested in combination with a glycogen synthase kinase (GSK) 3 inhibitor (CHIR99021), an inhibitor that has been shown to expand mature, highly functional NK cells capable of killing multiple tumour targets. One major limitation to NK cell therapy is lack of specificity. To address this concern, bispecific or trispecific engagers that target NK cells to the tumour and an ADAM17 inhibitor that prevents CD16 shedding after NK cell activation are being tested. Additionally, monoclonal antibodies are being designed to redirect the inhibitory signals that limit NK cell functionality. Further understanding of the biology of NK cells will inform strategies to exploit NK cells for therapeutic purposes.
The POMONA‐ESP project methodology: Collecting data on health indicators for people with intellectual developmental disorders
Authors: Folch Annabel , Martínez‐Leal Rafael , Vicens Paloma , Irazábal Marcia , Muñoz Silvia , Salvador‐Carulla Luis , Rovira Lluís , Orejuela Carmen , Cortés Maria José
Published: July 2018

Background

People with intellectual developmental disorders have significant health disparities and a lack of proper attention to their health needs. They have been underrepresented in scientific research, and very few studies have been carried out using a representative randomized sample. The aim of this study was to describe the methods used in the POMONA‐ESP project to recruit a representative and randomized sample of participants with intellectual developmental disorders.

Methods

The POMONA‐ESP project is an observational cross‐sectional study. It aims to explore the health status of people with intellectual developmental disorders across Spain and the use they make of health services.

Results and conclusions

The results of the POMONA‐ESP project may have a major impact on people with intellectual developmental disorders and society in general. It is the first study to obtain geographically representative epidemiological data from a large sample, information that is fundamental to improving care and healthcare planning for people with intellectual developmental disorders.
Dipalmitoylphosphatidic acid inhibits breast cancer growth by suppressing angiogenesis via inhibition of the CUX1/FGF1/HGF signalling pathway
Authors: Chen Jian , Zhou Zijun , Yao Yuying , Dai Jianwei , Zhou Dalei , Wang Lijing , Zhang Qian‐Qian
Published: July 2018

Tumour growth depends on a continual supply of the nutrients and oxygen, which are offered by tumour angiogenesis. Our previous study showed that dipalmitoylphosphatidic acid (DPPA), a bioactive phospholipid, inhibits the growth of triple‐negative breast cancer cells. However, its direct effect on angiogenesis remains unknown. Our work showed that DPPA significantly suppressed vascular growth in the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and yolk sac membrane (YSM) models. Meanwhile, tumour angiogenesis and tumour growth were inhibited by DPPA in the tumour tissues of an experimental breast cancer model, a subcutaneous xenograft mouse model and a genetically engineered spontaneous breast cancer mouse model (MMTV‐PyMT). Furthermore, DPPA directly inhibited the proliferation, migration and tube formation of vascular endothelial cells. The anti‐angiogenic effect of DPPA was regulated by the inhibition of Cut‐like homeobox1 (CUX1), which transcriptionally inhibited fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1), leading to the downregulation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). This work first demonstrates that DPPA directly inhibits angiogenesis in cancer development. Our previous work along with this study suggest that DPPA functions as an anti‐tumour therapeutic drug that inhibits angiogenesis.
The evolution of GRADE (part 1): Is there a theoretical and/or empirical basis for the GRADE framework?
Authors: Mercuri Mathew , Gafni Amiram
Published: July 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

The Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework has been presented as the best method available for developing clinical recommendations. GRADE has undergone a series of modifications. Here, we present the first part of a three article series examining the evolution of GRADE. Our purpose is to explore if (and if so, how) GRADE provides: (1) a justification (ie, theoretical and/or empirical) for why the criteria/components under consideration in the system are included (and other factors excluded), as well as why some criteria/components where added/modified in the evolution process, (2) clear and functional (ie, how to operationalize them) definitions of the included criteria/components, and (3) instruction and justification for how all the criteria/components are to be integrated when determining a recommendation. In part 1 of the series, we examine the first two versions of GRADE.

Methods

Narrative review.

Results

The justification scheme that sustains GRADE is not articulated in the first two versions of the framework. Why some criteria/components were included, and others excluded, is not justified theoretically nor is empirical support provided to suggest that the framework as presented includes that which is needed to produce valid recommendations. The first two versions of GRADE show a lack of clear instruction on how to operationalize the criteria for assessing the quality of evidence and the components for making a recommendation (including how to integrate the criteria/components at each step), which leaves substantial room for judgement on the part of the user of GRADE for guideline development.

Conclusions

This article revealed an absence of a justification (theoretical and/or empirical) to support important aspects of the GRADE framework, as well as a lack of clear instruction on how to operationalize the criteria and components in the framework. These issues limit one's ability to scientifically assess the appropriateness of GRADE for determining clinical recommendations.
Interplay Between Sensation Seeking and Parental Rules in the Emergence of Heavy Episodic Drinking
Authors: Percy Andrew , McKay Michael T. , Cole Jon C.
Published: July 2018

This study examined the parallel mediational processes between sensation seeking and parental rules on alcohol, in the emergence of heavy episodic drinking (HED) in adolescents. Data were drawn from a U.K. clustered randomized control trial (control arm only, N ≈ 6,300, Mage at baseline = 12.5). Using parallel process latent growth curve analysis, stricter parental rules at baseline were found to be associated with greater declines in sensation seeking over time and a lower risk of HED at follow‐up (+33 months). Higher initial levels of sensation seeking predicted a faster relaxation of parental rules and a greater risk of HED. By maintaining strict rules about alcohol, parents may promote a positive reduction in sensation seeking and a lower risk of HED.
Peel meals as feed ingredients in poultry diets: Chemical composition, dietary recommendations and prospects
Authors: Diarra Siaka S.
Published: July 2018

The increase demand for poultry products has had direct effect on the supply and price of feed. This has increased research interest into the potential of locally available, less competed and low cost materials as feed ingredients. Several peels from roots/tubers and fruits have been evaluated in poultry diets but recommendations have not been consistent. High fibre, low nutrient density and likely presence of antinutritional factors limit the efficient utilisation of peel meal by poultry. Plant cultivar, age, agronomic practices, method of peel processing, breed and age of poultry all affect the inclusion level of peel meal in poultry diets. The increase interest in breeding crops for low antinutrients, knowledge in processing technologies and availability of several additives such as enzyme products, amino acids and antinutrients binding agents in the feed market could improve the usefulness of peel meal in on‐farm poultry rations. This study reviews the potential of selected root/tuber and fruit peels as feed ingredients for poultry with regards their composition, dietary recommendation and prospects.
Clinical characteristics of self‐reported nocturia in patients with interstitial cystitis, and effects of bladder hydrodistention (with fulguration of Hunner lesions) on nocturia
Authors: Otsuka Atsushi , Suzuki Takahisa , Aki Ryota , Matsushita Yuto , Tamura Keita , Motoyama Daisuke , Ito Toshiki , Sugiyama Takayuki , Miyake Hideaki
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of nocturia in patients with interstitial cystitis (IC), and the effects of bladder hydrodistention (with fulguration of Hunner lesions) on nocturia.

Methods

The records of 81 patients who were diagnosed with IC were reviewed. Clinical characteristics were evaluated using the Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index (ICSI), a visual analogue scale (VAS), and bladder diary data. Differences in characteristics between Hunner‐ and non‐Hunner‐type IC were compared. Correlations between nocturia and other clinical variables were assessed. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with nocturia. Further, changes in nocturia before and after hydrodistention (with fulguration of Hunner lesions) were analyzed.

Results

The mean (± SD) age of patients was 62.2 ± 15.3 years. Significant differences in nocturia were observed between Hunner‐ and non‐Hunner‐type IC. Nocturia was positively correlated with age, urgency score (ICSI and VAS), mean number of urgency episodes per 24 hours and the nocturnal polyuria (NP) index, and negatively correlated with average voided volume. Age, NP index, average voided volume, and the presence of Hunner lesions were independent factors associated with nocturia. Bladder hydrodistention significantly decreased nocturia in non‐Hunner type IC without NP. In addition, regardless of the presence or absence of NP, bladder hydrodistention with fulguration of Hunner lesions significantly decreased nocturia in Hunner‐type IC.

Conclusions

The severity of nocturia is associated with age, NP, average voided volume, and the presence of Hunner lesions in IC patients. Bladder hydrodistention (with fulguration of Hunner lesions) has the potential to decrease nocturia.
Phylogeography and population genomics of a lotic water beetle across a complex tropical landscape
Authors: Lam Athena Wai , Gueuning Morgan , Kindler Carolin , Van Dam Matthew , Alvarez Nadir , Panjaitan Rawati , Shaverdo Helena , White Lloyd T. , Roderick George K. , Balke Michael
Published: July 2018

The habitat template concept applied to a freshwater system indicates that lotic species, or those which occupy permanent habitats along stream courses, are less dispersive than lentic species, or those that occur in more ephemeral aquatic habitats. Thus, populations of lotic species will be more structured than those of lentic species. Stream courses include both flowing water and small, stagnant microhabitats that can provide refuge when streams are low. Many species occur in these microhabitats but remain poorly studied. Here, we present population genetic data for one such species, the tropical diving beetle Exocelina manokwariensis (Dytiscidae), sampled from six localities along a ~300 km transect across the Birds Head Peninsula of New Guinea. Molecular data from both mitochondrial (CO1 sequences) and nuclear (ddRAD loci) regions document fine‐scale population structure across populations that are ~45 km apart. Our results are concordant with previous phylogenetic and macroecological studies that applied the habitat template concept to aquatic systems. This study also illustrates that these diverse but mostly overlooked microhabitats are promising study systems in freshwater ecology and evolutionary biology. With the advent of next‐generation sequencing, fine‐scale population genomic studies are feasible for small nonmodel organisms to help illuminate the effect of habitat stability on species’ natural history, population structure and geographic distribution.
Regional variation in drivers of connectivity for two frog species (Rana pretiosa and R. luteiventris) from the U.S. Pacific Northwest
Authors: Robertson Jeanne M. , Murphy Melanie A. , Pearl Christopher A. , Adams Michael J. , Páez‐Vacas Mónica I. , Haig Susan M. , Pilliod David S. , Storfer Andrew , Funk W. Chris
Published: July 2018

Comparative landscape genetics has uncovered high levels of variability in which landscape factors affect connectivity among species and regions. However, the relative importance of species traits versus environmental variation for predicting landscape patterns of connectivity is unresolved. We provide evidence from a landscape genetics study of two sister taxa of frogs, the Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa) and the Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris) in Oregon and Idaho, USA. Rana pretiosa is relatively more dependent on moisture for dispersal than R. luteiventris, so if species traits influence connectivity, we predicted that connectivity among R. pretiosa populations would be more positively associated with moisture than R. luteiventris. However, if environmental differences are important drivers of gene flow, we predicted that connectivity would be more positively related to moisture in arid regions. We tested these predictions using eight microsatellite loci and gravity models in two R. pretiosa regions and four R. luteiventris regions (n = 1,168 frogs). In R. pretiosa, but not R. luteiventris, connectivity was positively related to mean annual precipitation, supporting our first prediction. In contrast, connectivity was not more positively related to moisture in more arid regions. Various temperature metrics were important predictors for both species and in all regions, but the directionality of their effects varied. Therefore, the pattern of variation in drivers of connectivity was consistent with predictions based on species traits rather than on environmental variation.
Patrol Route Planning for Incident Response Vehicles under Dispatching Station Scenarios
Authors: Hajibabai Leila , Saha Debashis
Published: July 2018

Traffic incidents often contribute to major safety concerns, impose additional congestion in the neighboring transportation networks, and induce indirect costs to economy. As roughly a third of traffic crashes are secondary accidents, effective incident management activities are critical, especially on roadways with high traffic volume, to detect, respond to, and clean up incidents in a timely fashion, which supports safety constraints and restores traffic capacity in the transportation network. Hence, it is beneficial to simultaneously plan for first respondents’ dispatching station location and patrol route design to mitigate congestion. This article presents an optimal route planning for patrolling vehicles to facilitate quick response to potential accidents. A mixed‐integer nonlinear program is proposed that minimizes the respondents’ patrolling travel cost based on the expected maximum response time from each arbitrary location to all incident locations (a.k.a. hotspots) with various incident occurrence probabilities. We have developed a column generation‐based solution technique to solve the route optimization model under different station design scenarios. To investigate the impact of dispatching station design on the routing cost, an integrated genetic algorithm framework with embedded continuous approximation approach is developed that reduces the complexity of the hybrid location design and route planning problem. Numerical experiments on hypothetical networks of various sizes are conducted to indicate the performance of the proposed algorithm and to draw managerial insights. The models and solution techniques, developed in this article, are applicable to a number of network problems that simultaneously involve routing and facility location choices.
Suppression of nbe‐miR166h‐p5 attenuates leaf yellowing symptoms of potato virus X on Nicotiana benthamiana and reduces virus accumulation
Authors: Wang Shu , Cui Weijun , Wu Xinyang , Yuan Quan , Zhao Jinping , Zheng Hongying , Lu Yuwen , Peng Jiejun , Lin Lin , Chen Jianping , Yan Fei
Published: July 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play essential roles in plant development. There is increasing evidence that changed expression of miRNAs in virus‐infected plants contributes to the development of viral symptoms. Here, we analysed the altered expression of miRNAs of Nicotiana benthamiana in response to Potato virus X (PVX) by Illumina Solexa sequencing. One of the 21 miRNAs significantly affected, nbe‐miR166h‐p5, was closely associated with viral symptoms. Using the Tobacco rattle virus‐based miRNA suppression (VbMS) system, we found that the suppression of nbe‐miR166h‐p5 in plants caused leaves to turn dark green with increased chlorophyll. When PVX was inoculated on nbe‐miR166h‐p5‐suppressed plants, the leaf yellowing symptom of PVX was largely attenuated with less reduction in chlorophyll content, and the accumulation of PVX was decreased. nbe‐miR166h‐p5 was also up‐regulated in plants infected by Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), and its suppression attenuated the leaf yellowing symptom of TuMV and decreased viral accumulation. Three potential targets of nbe‐miR166h‐p5 were identified. The results indicate the association of nbe‐miR166h‐p5 with symptoms of PVX and also with those of TuMV, providing useful information on the relationship between miRNA and viral infection.
Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae chemotaxis components and chemoreceptor Mcp2 are involved in the sensing of constituents of xylem sap and contribute to the regulation of virulence‐associated functions and entry into rice
Authors: Kumar Verma Raj , Samal Biswajit , Chatterjee Subhadeep
Published: July 2018

The Xanthomonas group of phytopathogens causes several economically important diseases in crops. In the bacterial pathogen of rice, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), it has been proposed that chemotaxis may play a role in the entry and colonization of the pathogen inside the host. However, components of the chemotaxis system, including the chemoreceptors involved, and their role in entry and virulence, are not well defined. In this study, we show that Xoo displays a positive chemotaxis response to components of rice xylem sap—glutamine, xylose and methionine. In order to understand the role of chemotaxis components involved in the promotion of chemotaxis, entry and virulence, we performed detailed deletion mutant analysis. Analysis of mutants defective in chemotaxis components, flagellar biogenesis, expression analysis and assays of virulence‐associated functions indicated that chemotaxis‐mediated signalling in Xoo is involved in the regulation of several virulence‐associated functions, such as motility, attachment and iron homeostasis. The ∆cheY1 mutant of Xoo exhibited a reduced expression of genes involved in motility, adhesins, and iron uptake and metabolism. We show that the expression of Xoo chemotaxis and motility components is induced under in planta conditions and is required for entry, colonization and virulence. Furthermore, deletion analysis of a putative chemoreceptor mcp2 gene revealed that chemoreceptor Mcp2 is involved in the sensing of xylem sap and constituents of xylem exudate, including methionine, serine and histidine, and plays an important role in epiphytic entry and virulence. This is the first report of the role of chemotaxis in the virulence of this important group of phytopathogens.
Late‐onset hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy expands the phenotypic spectrum ofMFN2‐related diseases
Authors: Wu Rui , Fu Jun , Meng Lingchao , Lv He , Wang Zhaoxia , Yuan Yun
Published: July 2018

Mutations in the Mitofusin 2 (MFN2) gene have been identified in patients with autosomal dominant axonal motor and sensory neuropathy or Charcot–Marie‐Tooth 2A (CMT2A). Here we describe clinical and pathological changes in an adult patient with sporadic hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy (HSAN) due to anMFN2mutation. The patient was a 53‐year‐old man who had sensory involvement and anhidrosis in all limbs without motor features. The electrophysiological assessment documented severe axonal sensory neuropathy. The sural nerve biopsy confirmed the electrophysiological findings, revealing severe loss of myelinated and unmyelinated fibers with regeneration clusters. Genetic analysis revealed the previously identified mutation c.776 G > A inMFN2. Our report expands the phenotypic spectrum ofMFN2‐related diseases. Sequencing ofMFN2should be considered in all patients presenting with late‐onset HSAN.
Genotyping by sequencing of 270 Indica rice varieties revealed genetic markers probably related to heavy metal accumulation
Authors: Liang Yuhu , Dong Xiao , Ni Xuemei , Wang Qi , Sahu Sunil Kumar , Hou Junliang , Liang Manzhong , Chen Liangbi , Zhang Gengyun
Published: July 2018

Genotyping by sequencing (GBS) has been applied to identify genetic markers in crops for trait association and breeding purposes. Here, we applied GBS technology to study a natural population of 270 Indica rice strains, which resulted in identification of 79,545 genomewide single nucleotide polymorphisms. Using these SNPs, we found the close relationship between the 270 Indica rice strains. Furthermore, we tested the feasibility of using these 270 Indica strains in studying important rice traits by analysing the cadmium and other metal accumulation of these strains and correlating the traits with genetic markers. We identified 32 SNPs to be associated with cadmium (Cd) accumulation, explaining 61.25% of the Cd concentration variances in grains. The genetic markers provided here are valuable resources for future rice studies, and further characterization of the candidate loci identified in this study can also aid the development of low Cd‐accumulating rice varieties.
Economic evaluation of sexed semen use in Iranian dairy farms according to field data
Authors: Jabarzareh Ali , Sadeghi‐Sefidmazgi Ali , Ghorbani GholamReza , Cabrera Victor
Published: July 2018

Contents

In this study, at first, the reproductive consequences of sexed semen use were quantified and then the cost‐benefit of sexed semen use on Iranian commercial dairy farms was evaluated. Retrospective data collected during 2006 to 2013 from four large dairy farms in the Isfahan province of Iran were used for this study. These data included of 13,003 heifers records, from which 11.2% used sexed semen from 33 different bulls. All data were analysed using a multivariable logistical regression model, GENMOD procedure from SAS software. The analyses included economic values (EVs) when sexed semen was used in 1, 2 and 3 consecutive services compared with conventional semen use for all insemination. Results showed that rates of female born from sexed semen (86.3%) were 1.8 times higher than those from conventional semen (48.5%). Conception rates were 43.8% for sexed and 59.2% for conventional semen (p < 0.0001). Abortion (4.4% vs. 5.4%) and stillbirth (8.4% vs. 7.2%) rates were not significantly different between sexed and conventional semen (p = 0.09). Dystocia rates were 15.5% for sexed and 19.6% for conventional semen (p = 0.002). Sexed semen use showed negative EVs through all investigated scenarios. The EVs from the implementation of 1, 2 and 3 sexed semen breedings were estimated to be $−6.69, $−14.01 and $−19.08, respectively. Total insemination cost and increased cost of age at first calving were the most important components associated with negative EV for sexed semen. Sensitivity analysis showed that proportion of conception rates of sexed semen to conventional semen and female calf value were the most important biological and economic factors influencing on the EV of sexed semen, respectively. Breakeven would be obtained with 77.4%–79.3% conception rates or female calf value of $719.5–$754.7 through investigated breeding scenarios when all other factors remained the same.
Morphological evaluation of Prochilodus lineatus embryos after vitrification–thawing in high‐osmolarity cryoprotectant solution
Authors: Costa Raphael da Silva , Capuzzo Caio de Souza , Ribeiro Cristiele da Silva , Verissimo‐Silveira Rosicleire , Siqueira‐Silva Diógenes Henrique de , Senhorini José Augusto , Ninhaus‐Silveira Alexandre
Published: July 2018

Contents

We aimed to vitrify embryos of Prochilodus lineatus in a high‐osmolarity cryoprotectant solution, evaluating, after the vitrification–thawing process, their morphological changes. Thus, 240 embryos in the 20‐somite phase (20S) were exposed for 20 min to one main internal cryoprotectant solution (1,2‐propanediol—PROP), divided into four immersion sequence steps of five minutes each. The first three steps were performed in solutions containing only a main internal cryoprotectant (PROP—2, 3 and 4 M), and the fourth step in a high‐osmolarity solution combining internal (PROP + dimethyl sulphoxide—Me2SO) and external cryoprotectants (sucrose—SUC). The final concentration of vitrification was PROP 5 M + Me2SO 5 M + SUC 0.2 M. During vitrification, the straws exhibited a translucent solid appearance; however, during thawing, their structure became totally opaque and white. After thawing, the embryos suffered an increase in volume and presented morphological changes including protrusions on the surface of the yolk sac, yolk sac rupture, and optical vesicle degradation. On the inside, we observed intercellular spaces and a yolk syncytial layer (YSL) with altered chromatin. Yet, structures such as somites, neural tube, endoderm and epidermis presented cells with a nucleus and integral mitochondria. We conclude that the use of the tested cryoprotectant solution permits the formation of a vitreous solid and preserves part of the cells of the blastoderm. Yet, the heating protocol does not control recrystallization, resulting in the formation of serious morphological anomalies that prevent the preservation of the embryonic unit.
Discovering the ethos of serving in nursing leadership from the first half of the 20th century in three Nordic countries – an idea‐historical research approach
Authors: Honkavuo Leena , Eriksson Katie , Nåden Dagfinn
Published: July 2018

The history of ideas may contribute to an awareness and an opening up of deep‐seated currents of thought that have shaped the inner core of the caring culture and an ethical value base – the ethos of serving in nursing leadership. This article studies how serving as an ethos is represented, which becomes visible and evident in Sophie Mannerheim's, Bertha Wellin's and Bergljot Larsson's nursing leadership. This article also seeks to describe the main features of the idea‐historical research approach the way in which it is represented within the caring science‐tradition. An idea‐historical methodological approach informed by Gadamer's philosophy was used for the hermeneutical interpretation within a caring science perspective. Primary and secondary historical sources were explored in the light of nursing praxis and serving. Three general idea patterns were discovered: the innermost room of the heart as the idea of serving, the action of the hand as acts of love and a cultivation of the head towards nursing leadership. These ideas open for a new vision that can bring out new patterns for action in the present and in the nursing leadership of the future.
Managing protein‐energy wasting in hemodialysis patients: A comparison of animal‐ and plant‐based protein foods
Authors: St‐Jules David E. , Goldfarb David S. , Popp Collin J. , Pompeii Mary Lou , Liebman Scott E.
Published: July 2018

Protein‐energy wasting (PEW) is a major diet‐related complication in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Nutrient‐based dietary guidelines emphasize animal‐based protein foods for preventing and managing PEW in HD patients. Although dietary protein intake is important for protein anabolism, other dietary factors contribute to PEW. In this article, we examine the diet‐related etiologies of PEW in HD patients, and discuss how they may be affected differently by animal‐ and plant‐based protein foods. In general, animal foods are superior sources of protein, but may contribute more to metabolic derangements that cause PEW. Given the potential mixed effects of animal‐based protein foods on PEW, human research studies are needed to determine the impact of liberalizing the diet to allow plant‐based protein foods on protein status.
Participant roles in preschool bullying: The impact of emotion regulation, social preference, and quality of the teacher–child relationship
Authors: Camodeca Marina , Coppola Gabrielle
Published: July 2018

The present work investigated whether emotion regulation and social preference were associated with participant roles in bullying as a function of the quality of the relationship with teachers. Participants were 332 children (172 boys), in the age of 42–76 months (M = 58.74;SD = 7.84). Peer nominations were employed to assess social preference and participant roles (bullying, victimization, defending the victim, and outsider behavior). Teachers completed the Emotion Regulation Checklist, which yields the dimensions of emotion regulation and lability/negativity, and the Student–Teacher Relationships Scale, to evaluate conflict and closeness with the teacher. Multilevel models highlighted that emotional lability was positively associated with bullying and outsider behavior, emotion regulation was positively related to bullying and defending behavior, and social preference was negatively associated with bullying and victimization and positively with defending behavior. Interactions indicated that lability and low social preference were associated with bullying, and emotion regulation with outsider behavior, in children with a conflictual relationship with the teacher whereas social preference was related to defending behavior in children with a close relationship with the teacher. Results are discussed highlighting the importance of the quality of teacher–child relationship and the relevance of intervention programs aimed at promoting social wellbeing in preschool.
Detection of an HLA‐C*03 variant, HLA‐C*03:187, in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang K. L. , Lin P. Y.
Published: July 2018

One nucleotide substitution at residue 527 of HLA‐C*03:03:01:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐C*03:187.
The impact of exercise and nutrition on the regulation of skeletal muscle mass
Authors: McGlory Chris , van Vliet Stephan , Stokes Tanner , Mittendorfer Bettina , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: July 2018

The maintenance of skeletal muscle mass and strength throughout life is a key determinant of human health and well‐being. There is a gradual loss of both skeletal muscle mass and strength with ageing (a process termed sarcopenia) that increases the risk of functional dependence, morbidity and mortality. Understanding the factors that regulate the size of human muscle mass, particularly during the later years of life, has therefore become an area of intense scientific inquiry. The amount of muscle mass is determined by coordinated changes in muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and muscle protein breakdown (MPB). In this review, we assess both classical and contemporary work that has examined how resistance exercise and nutrition impact on MPS and MPB. Special consideration is given to the role of different sources of dietary protein (food vs. supplements) and non‐protein nutrients such as omega‐3 fatty acids in regulating MPS. We also critically evaluate recent studies that have employed novel ‘omic’ technologies such as dynamic protein profiling to probe for changes in rates of MPS and MPB at the individual protein level following exercise. Finally, we provide suggestions for future research that we hope will yield important information for the development of exercise and nutritional strategies to counteract muscle loss in a variety of clinical settings.

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Danza mediatizada al servicio de la ideología en las fiestas y los actos propagandísticos celebrados en Sevilla durante la guerra civil española.
Authors: Díaz Olaya Ana María
Published: July 2018

Este trabajo se encuentra enclavado dentro de la temática relacionada con los esfuerzos propagandísticos del levantamiento franquista y la dictadura a través de la mediatización de las artes. En este caso concreto, está centrado en la danza y su desarrollo en un enclave que fue representativo durante la guerra civil, la ciudad de Sevilla, testigo de las principales fiestas y actos propagandísticos que se llevaron a cabo dentro de la España nacional. Inmersos en este ambiente, se ha pretendido analizar la frecuencia y el modo en que la danza tomó parte de este tipo de eventos como herramienta propagandística, así como su posible similitud con la danza de posguerra en cuanto a su participación como elemento clave del discurso político-propagandístico trazado por el franquismo. Para estos fines, se ha realizado un extenso recorrido a través de bibliografía específica, los principales diarios de la época y las diversas fuentes de archivo conservadas, percibiéndose tanto la utilización propagandística estratégica de este arte coreográfico como su protagonismo en cuanto a la definición y concreción de lo que sería la danza bélica y posbélica española característica del bando franquista.
La dilación en el arte contemporáneo: en torno al retraso del acontecimiento de obra propiciado por la técnica en exhibición (Jonathan Schipper, Douglas Gordon y Dan Graham).
Authors: Molina Franjola Sandra Elisa
Published: July 2018

La representación del tiempo en el arte implica una transferencia del tiempo del sujeto a aspectos técnicos y materiales que dan cuerpo a su signo, afectando el modo en que nos relacionamos con el tiempo desde la cuantificación. Entonces, ¿qué intenta problematizar el arte contemporáneo mediante obras que involucran dilaciones temporales?. Ante este problema se propone lo siguiente: las obras que trabajan la dilación proponen la extensión temporal como un forma de relación con el tiempo que se contrapone a la instantaneidad de la técnica actual –el tiempo real-, generando una prórroga que propicia una nueva experiencia en el tiempo técnico: la lentitud. El análisis se aborda desde las obras de Jonathan Schipper (Slow Motion car crash, 2012), Douglas Gordon (24-hour Psycho, 1993) y Dan Graham (Present Continuous past(s), 1974),  donde se pone en obra un intento por detener el irrefrenable flujo del tiempo.
Representaciones subjetivas y competencias cognitivas en el aprendizaje de una nueva pieza de música contemporánea para piano
Authors: Cara Jara Michel André
Published: July 2018

El proceso de aprendizaje de una nueva pieza de música contemporánea para piano fue estudiado en un grupo de diez estudiantes de piano funcional, todos guiados por la profesora Kenya Godoy, docente de la Facultad de Artes de la Universidad de Chile. El objetivo de la investigación es analizar las distintas estrategias de estudio de los estudiantes en función de sus capacidades cognitivas considerando la interacción educativa como parte relevante del fenómeno de aprendizaje. Los participantes leyeron cuatro veces la pieza Algunas preguntas del compositor chileno Juan Amenábar, con la posibilidad de dos minutos de práctica entre cada interpretación, sin detención, de la obra musical completa. Se aplicaron cuestionarios a los estudiantes y a la profesora, así como pruebas de memoria operativa y espacial a corto plazo a los estudiantes. Lo anterior con la finalidad de analizar la implicancia de los recursos cognitivos en el aprendizaje musical y el tipo de representación mental involucrada en la performance. La profesora se sitúa fuera del proceso de aprendizaje, pero participa posteriormente analizando las interpretaciones de sus estudiantes registradas en formato video. El análisis de los cuestionarios demuestra que la eficacia personal se refleja en el grado de confianza que el profesor entrega a su alumno y establece una relación dialéctica que refuerza la integración del conocimiento a largo plazo. Un análisis factorial muestra que la evaluación del profesor parece ser un compromiso entre las capacidades cognitivas del estudiante, sostenidas por la confianza personal y el desempeño real guiado por los aspectos técnicos.
Not too Far from the Tree
Authors: Tibbets John H.
Published: July 2018

This article explores the concept of robotic harvesting and use of computer, sensors, and artificial intelligence in the field of harvesting. More powerful computers, better sensors, and improved artificial intelligence promise to make machines competitive with human laborers for picking the apple harvest. Israel-based FFRobotics is one of the two companies racing to commercialize the world’s first mechanical apple picker. FFRobotics plan to test their apple-picking robot on Washington’s 2018 harvest, which runs from mid-August through mid-November. Modern orchard designs also allow engineers to build simpler apple-picking systems, according to Amir Degani, founder of the Civil, Environmental, and Agricultural Robotics Lab at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa. Degani advised with FFRobotics on developing its robotic arm. FFRobotics is still struggling with whether to go with open- or closed-loop controller. The open-loop system recognizes a specific fruit and sends the gripper to that location. If a strong wind moves the apple left or right, the gripper does not follow. The closed-loop system tracks the movement of the fruit by distinctive points on the apple’s face as guides and adjusts the arm as it moves closer to the apple. While closed-loop systems are more effective, they are also too expensive.
Does Silicon Valley Have Enough Mechanical Engineers?
Authors: Sukel Kayt
Published: July 2018

This article discusses need of mechanical engineers in Silicon Valley, importance of mechanical engineers, and need for introduction of courses to help mechanical engineering students hone their digital skills at the school. Silicon Valley is looking at hackathons for engineers who understand how to build mechanical devices that work in an interconnected internet of things (IoT) world. Hackathons are sprint-like design events where computer geeks collaborate intensively to create usable—and perhaps even commercially viable—software. Once the sole province of computer science majors, hackathons now embrace autonomous robots, smart homes and cities, driverless cars, and other IoT standbys. According to an expert, companies need employees who successfully straddle the line between information technology and engineering skills. The article also emphasizes that Silicon Valley is rediscovering its physical assets. It may not know exactly what skills it needs now or will need in the future as IoT evolves, but it is ready to start talking to mechanical engineers.
More than Rotating Flagella: Lipopolysaccharide as a Secondary Receptor for Flagellotropic Phage 7-7-1
Authors: Gonzalez Floricel , Helm Richard F. , Broadway Katherine M. , Scharf Birgit E.
Published: July 2018

Flagellotropic bacteriophages belong to the tailed-phage order
Caudovirales
, the most abundant phages in the virome. While it is known that these viruses adhere to the bacterial flagellum and use flagellar rotation to reach the cell surface, their infection mechanisms are poorly understood. Characterizing flagellotropic-phage–host interactions is crucial to understanding how microbial communities are shaped. Using a transposon mutagenesis approach combined with a screen for motile, phage-resistant mutants, we identified lipopolysaccharides as the secondary cell surface receptor for phage 7-7-1. This is the first cell surface receptor identified for flagellotropic phages. One hypothetical membrane protein was also recognized as essential for infection. These new findings, together with previous results, culminated in an infection model for phage 7-7-1.