bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A practical guide for inferring reliable dominance hierarchies and estimating their uncertainty
Authors: Sánchez-Tójar Alfredo , Schroeder Julia , Farine Damien R.
Published: February 2017

Many animal social structures are organized hierarchically, with dominant individuals monopolizing resources. Dominance hierarchies have received great attention from behavioural and evolutionary ecologists. As a result, there are many methods for inferring hierarchies from social interactions. Yet, there are no clear guidelines about how many observed dominance interactions (i.e. sampling effort) are necessary for inferring reliable dominance hierarchies, nor are there any established tools for quantifying their uncertainty. In this study, we simulated interactions (winners and losers) in scenarios of varying steepness (the probability that a dominant defeats a subordinate based on their difference in rank). Using these data, we (1) quantify how the number of interactions recorded and hierarchy steepness affect the performance of three methods, (2) propose an amendment that improves the performance of a popular method, and (3) suggest two easy procedures to measure uncertainty in the inferred hierarchy. First, we found that the ratio of interactions to individuals required to infer reliable hierarchies is surprisingly low, but depends on the hierarchy steepness and method used. We then show that David’s score and our novel randomized Elo-rating are the two best methods, whereas the original Elo-rating and the recently described ADAGIO perform less well. Finally, we propose two simple methods to estimate uncertainty at the individual and group level. These uncertainty measures further allow to differentiate non-existent, very flat and highly uncertain hierarchies from intermediate, steep and certain hierarchies. Overall, we find that the methods for inferring dominance hierarchies are relatively robust, even when the ratio of observed interactions to individuals is as low as 10 to 20. However, we suggest that implementing simple procedures for estimating uncertainty will benefit researchers, and quantifying the shape of the dominance hierarchies will provide new insights into the study organisms.

Highlights

David’s score and the randomized Elo-rating perform best.

Method performance depends on hierarchy steepness and sampling effort.

Generally, inferring dominance hierarchies requires relatively few observations.

The R package “aniDom” allows easy estimation of hierarchy uncertainty.

Hierarchy uncertainty provides insights into the shape of the dominance hierarchy.
Real-time chromatin dynamics at the single gene level during transcription activation
Authors: Germier Thomas , Kocanova Silvia , Walther Nike , Bancaud Aurélien , Shaban Haitham Ahmed , Sellou Hafida , Politi Antonio Zaccaria , Ellenberg Jan , Gallardo Franck , Bystricky Kerstin
Published: February 2017

Genome dynamics relate to regulation of gene expression, the most fundamental process in biology. Yet we still do not know whether the very process of transcription drives spatial organization and chromatin conformation at specific gene loci. To address this issue, we have optimized the ANCHOR/ParB DNA labeling system for real-time imaging and quantitative analysis of the dynamics of a single-copy transgene in human cells. Transcription of the transgene under the control of the endogenous Cyclin D1 promoter was induced by addition of 17β-estradiol. Motion of the ANCHOR3-tagged DNA locus was recorded in the same cell prior to and during appearance of nascent mRNA visualized using the MS2 system. We found that transcription initiation resulted in rapid confinement of the mRNA-producing gene. The confinement was maintained even upon inhibition of pol2 elongation. It did not occur when recruitment of pol2 or transcription initiation was blocked by anti-estrogens or Triptolide. These results suggest that preinitiation complex formation and concomitant reorganization of the chromatin domain constrains freedom of movement of an induced gene’s promoter within minutes. Confined diffusion reflects assembly of functional protein hubs and DNA processing during the rate-limiting steps of transcription.
ABySS 2.0: resource-efficient assembly of large genomes using a Bloom filter
Authors: Jackman Shaun D. , Vandervalk Benjamin P. , Mohamadi Hamid , Chu Justin , Yeo Sarah , Hammond S. Austin , Jahesh Golnaz , Khan Hamza , Coombe Lauren , Warren Rene L. , Birol Inanc
Published: February 2017

The assembly of DNA sequences de novo is fundamental to genomics research. It is the first of many steps toward elucidating and characterizing whole genomes. Downstream applications, including analysis of genomic variation between species, between or within individuals critically depend on robustly assembled sequences. In the span of a single decade, the sequence throughput of leading DNA sequencing instruments has increased drastically, and coupled with established and planned large-scale, personalized medicine initiatives to sequence genomes in the thousands and even millions, the development of efficient, scalable and accurate bioinformatics tools for producing high-quality reference draft genomes is timely. With ABySS 1.0, we originally showed that assembling the human genome using short 50-bp sequencing reads was possible by aggregating the half terabyte of compute memory needed over several computers using a standardized message-passing system (MPI). We present here its redesign, which departs from MPI and instead implements algorithms that employ a Bloom filter, a probabilistic data structure, to represent a de Bruijn graph and reduce memory requirements. We benchmarked ABySS 2.0 human genome assembly using a Genome in a Bottle data set of 250-bp Illumina paired-end and 6-kbp mate-pair libraries from a single individual. Our assembly yielded a NG50 (NGA50) scaffold contiguity of 3.5 (3.0) Mbp using <35 GB of RAM. This is a modest memory requirement by today's standards and is often available on a single computer. We also investigate the use of BioNano Genomics and 10x Genomics’ Chromium data to further improve the scaffold NG50 (NGA50) of this assembly to 42 (15) Mbp.
Study on the reflectivity properties of spherically bent analyser crystals. Corrigendum
Authors: Honkanen Ari-Pekka , Verbeni Roberto , Simonelli Laura , Moretti Sala Marco , Monaco Giulio , Huotari Simo
Published: February 2017

Corrections to the paper by Honkanen et al. (2014). [J. Synchrotron Rad.
21, 104–110] are made.
Silver(I) nitrate complexes of three tetrakis-thioether-substituted pyrazine ligands: metal–organic chain, network and framework structures
Authors: Assoumatine Tokouré , Stoeckli-Evans Helen
Published: February 2017

The reaction of the ligand 2,3,5,6-tetrakis[(methylsulfanyl)methyl]pyrazine (L1) with silver(I) nitrate led to {[Ag(C12H20N2S4)](NO3)}n, (I),catena-poly[[silver(I)-μ-2,3,5,6-tetrakis[(methylsulfanyl)methyl]pyrazine] nitrate], a compound with a metal–organic chain structure. The asymmetric unit is composed of two half ligands, located about inversion centres, with one ligand coordinating to the silver atoms in a bis-tridentate manner and the other in a bis-bidentate manner. The charge on the metal atom is compensated for by a free nitrate anion. Hence, the silver atom has a fivefold S3N2coordination sphere. The reaction of the ligand 2,3,5,6-tetrakis[(phenylsulfanyl)methyl]pyrazine (L2) with silver(I) nitrate, led to [Ag2(NO3)2(C32H28N2S4)]n, (II), poly[di-μ-nitrato-bis{μ-2,3,5,6-tetrakis[(phenylsulfanyl)methyl]pyrazine}disilver], a compound with a metal–organic network structure. The asymmetric unit is composed of half a ligand, located about an inversion centre, that coordinates to the silver atoms in a bis-tridentate manner. The nitrate anion coordinates to the silver atom in a bidentate/monodentate manner, bridging the silver atoms, which therefore have a sixfold S2NO3coordination sphere. The reaction of the ligand 2,3,5,6-tetrakis[(pyridin-2-ylsulfanyl)methyl]pyrazine (L3) with silver(I) nitrate led to [Ag3(NO3)3(C28H24N6S4)]n, (III), poly[trinitrato{μ6-2,3,5,6-tetrakis[(pyridin-2-ylsulfanyl)methyl]pyrazine}trisilver(I)], a compound with a metal–organic framework structure. The asymmetric unit is composed of half a ligand, located about an inversion centre, that coordinates to the silver atoms in a bis-tridentate manner. One pyridine N atom bridges the monomeric units, so forming a chain structure. Two nitrate O atoms also coordinate to this silver atom, hence it has a sixfold S2N2O2coordination sphere. The chains are linkedviaa second silver atom, located on a twofold rotation axis, coordinated by the second pyridine N atom. A second nitrate anion, also lying about the twofold rotation axis, coordinates to this silver atomviaan Ag—O bond, hence this second silver atom has a threefold N2O coordination sphere. In the crystal of (I), the nitrate anion plays an essential role in forming C—H...O hydrogen bonds that link the metal–organic chains to form a three-dimensional supramolecular structure. In the crystal of (II), the metal–organic networks (lying parallel to thebcplane) stack up thea-axis direction but there are no significant intermolecular interactions present between the layers. In the crystal of (III), there are a number of C—H...O hydrogen bonds present within the metal–organic framework. The role of the nitrate anion in the formation of the coordination polymers is also examined.
How does transformational leadership influence proactive customer service behavior of frontline service employees? Examining the mediating roles of psychological empowerment and affective commitment
Authors: Jauhari Hemang , Singh Shailendra , Kumar Manish
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the mediating roles of two variables of psychological empowerment and affective commitment of frontline service employees (FSEs) in the relationship between transformational leadership (TFL) and proactive customer service behavior (PCSB) of FSEs.

Design/methodology/approach

In a rigorous research design, the authors obtained data from 225 FSE-supervisor dyads working in a large Indian IT services organization. Analysis was done using structural equation modeling approach in LISREL 8.72.

Findings

As expected, affective commitment and psychological empowerment of FSEs fully mediated the positive relationship between TFL and PCSB of FSEs, even after controlling for age and tenure. The specified model explained 24 percent of the variance in PCSB of FSEs.

Research limitations/implications

As FSEs act as the face of a service organization, therefore their proactive behavior plays an important role in customer satisfaction. Enactment of TFL by supervisors fosters PCSB of FSEs. Therefore, organizations must develop TFL skills in their managers to psychologically empower FSEs and get them committed to a superior service delivery through PCSB.

Originality/value

The study is one amongst the few studies to explore the relationship between TFL and proactive behavior in the customer service domain. Additionally, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the explanatory mechanisms through which transformational leaders foster PCSB of FSEs.
Exploring mobile government from the service quality perspective
Authors: Al-Hubaishi Hajar Saeed , Ahmad Syed Zamberi , Hussain Matloub
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify service quality dimensions and their sub-dimensions for mobile government services. Despite studies conducted on mobile services, there is lack of a comprehensive framework of mobile government service quality. Researchers and practitioners must outline a taxonomy of mobile government service quality before they can begin to test their effects empirically. It cannot be assumed that e-government is the same as m-government. Therefore, it is important to understand the dimensions that affect mobile government service quality.

Design/methodology/approach

Mobile government service quality dimensions were extracted from the literature on m-government from its development and transition from e-government to service models being used. This helps understand what service quality dimensions are necessary when creating more efficient, reliable, and responsible forms of m-government. The dimensions are demonstrated within a holistic framework of m-government service quality, presented for both academic and practitioner appreciation.

Findings

This paper identifies 20 mobile government service quality sub-dimensions classified within six dimensions.

Originality/value

The literature on mobile government service quality is scarce. With the expectation of mobile subscriptions worldwide reaching 8 billion by 2016, it is the most lucrative time to be researching how the design of mobile government affects service quality. This paper is the first to provide information on m-government service quality dimensions available for assessment.
Burnout during early career: lived experiences of the knowledge workers in India
Authors: Packirisamy Premalatha , Meenakshy Manju , Jagannathan Srinath
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the phenomenon of burnout during early career among knowledge workers in information technology (IT) services industry in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The grounded theory research design was used to explore the research phenomenon. The study was based on the analysis of 43 in-depth interviews from the employees, managers and human resource professionals in IT services industry in India. Purposeful and theoretical sampling designs were used to locate the participants for the study. Grounded theory analytical procedures – open, axial and selective coding – were used to analyze and interpret the interview narratives. Atlas ti version 5.0. was used for qualitative data analysis.

Findings

The analysis of the interviews with the young knowledge workers reveal the following as the reasons for their burnout during early career: poor integration with the job and the organization at large, underemployment, stressful job and exhausting work environment, fear and insecurity of replacement of talent and downsizing. Strategies are discussed to deal with burnout situations among the young knowledge workers for individual and organizational well-being.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study are applicable to organizations such as the IT services industry and thus the research outcome cannot be generalized. The study includes lived experiences of employees only during their early career.

Practical implications

The findings are relevant and useful in the practice domain as they are grounded in field reality. It provides directions for managerial and organizational practices in preventing burnout in early career among knowledge workers.

Originality/value

The paper is original and the present study is among the first attempts to investigate the nature of burnout through qualitative inquiry.
Exploring differentiation of self and organizational commitment
Authors: Sloan David , Buckham Robert , Lee Youngsu
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether an employee’s level of organizational commitment is influenced by his or her level of differentiation of self.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a survey questionnaire among fully employed workers in the USA. Data were analyzed using a structural equation model (n=547).

Findings

The results of this study showed a positive direct relationship between differentiation of self and affective and normative types of commitment. Differentiation of self also showed a direct negative relationship with continuance commitment.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that managers may be able to look to differentiation of self to facilitate commitment to the organization. Managers who screen applicants at the recruitment stage or train current employees in self-differentiation may be able to increase overall commitment levels among employees of the organization.

Originality/value

This research empirically extends family systems theory to workplace settings. It also expands the understanding of organizational commitment through the perspectives of psychological and relational functioning.
Effectiveness of managerial capabilities at different hierarchical levels
Authors: Anzengruber Johanna , Goetz Martin A. , Nold Herbert , Woelfle Marco
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the relative importance of task, relations, and change capabilities of managers at low, middle, and top hierarchical levels.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from performance reviews and evaluations from human resources personnel for 2,307 managers in one large company in a high-tech industry. Separate regressions for each management level were performed with standardized regression coefficients allowing comparisons across the different regressions.

Findings

Significant differences were observed in the effectiveness of managers using task, relations, and change capabilities. At top management, change-oriented capabilities become 2 to 3 times more important than at the lowest level. Task-oriented capabilities become significantly less important at the top level. Relations-oriented capabilities are important at all levels.

Research limitations/implications

Studies with participants from multiple industries and longitudinal studies could benefit research by further validating the findings and offering new insights on other situational factors, which change over time.

Practical implications

Managers, who have been successful in lower and middle positions, may not necessarily be effective top managers.

Originality/value

Few studies have explored differences in managerial capabilities at different hierarchical levels in organizations. The study offers a clear rationale to consider when conducting any analysis of different levels of management by practitioners or researchers.
Ecological risk assessment of a subtropical river influenced by discharges of residues from water and sewage treatment plants
Authors: Silva Angélica Megda , Abessa Denis , Pamplin Paulo Augusto Zaitune , Bohrer-Morel Maria Beatriz
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The São Lourenço River (SLR) is used to supply potable waters for the cities of São Lourenço da Serra and Juquitiba, but receives the residues from the water treatment plants (WTPs) and sewage treatment plants (STPs), respectively. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impacts of the discharges of Juquitiba’s WTP and STP on the quality of the SLR, by using an integrated approach based on different lines of evidence.

Design/methodology/approach

Six sampling sites were established along the river and comprised areas situated upstream and downstream of the discharges. Five sampling surveys were performed between 2004 and 2006 for collecting water and sediment samples for ecotoxicological assays. In two of these campaigns, benthic community structure and geochemistry (metals, nutrients and sediment texture) were also assessed.

Findings

Concentrations of P, Fe and Al in waters exceeded the national standards, but sediments were not considered to be contaminated by metals or nutrients. Water and sediments tended to exhibit marginal toxicities, excluding the sediments from JQT007 and JQT008 that were frequently toxic. Combination of geochemistry, toxicity and ecological indices indicated that some sites are not degraded, but in some stations the benthic alteration may be due to non-measured contaminants, especially in JQT007 and JQT008.

Practical implications

As the use of waters from SLR for public supply has increased, these results show that action should be taken in order to reverse the environmental degradation of SRL.

Originality/value

This research combined sediment and water quality assessments in order to provide a more suitable and reliable diagnostic of the environmental quality of the SLR.
Knowledge management strategies for capitalising on school knowledge
Authors: Cheng Eric C.K.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the extent to which knowledge management practices, that is the process of developing and sharing organisational knowledge, can enhance intellectual capital (IC) in the context of school education.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach was adopted as the research strategy. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted to collect data from 445 teachers at 13 primary schools in Hong Kong. A structural equation model (SEM) was applied to confirm the predictive effective of knowledge strategies on school IC. Interviews were conducted in a case school to explore the process for capitalising the knowledge by Lesson Study.

Findings

The result of the SEM shows that personalisation and codification strategies are predictors of human capital and structural capital at schools. The findings from interviews with the principals and teachers show that personalisation and codification strategies could be put into operation as a Lesson Study to leverage knowledge for school development.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the management practices of school organisation for enhancing their IC by conducting Lesson Study for the development of their schools effectively.
Litter for life: assessing the multifunctional legacy of plant traits
Authors: Dias André Tavares Corrêa , Cornelissen Johannes H. C. , Berg Matty P.
Published: February 2017

Litter drives a wide variety of important functions in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. However, the role of litter in regulating community dynamics and ecosystem processes has mostly been studied in terms of litter presence or amount. Besides in biogeochemistry, we still do not know how litters from distinct plant species differ in their effects on other ecosystem processes and services including biodiversity support.

We briefly synthesize the multiple litter functions and services by using the afterlife legacy of interspecific variation in plant morphological, physical and chemical traits as a unifying tool. We do so by explicit reference to two highly distinct but possibly interacting ‘trait spectra’: the widely known Resource Economic Spectrum, and the Size and Shape Spectrum, a trait‐based axis ranging from small and relatively simply shaped distal plant organs to large and more intricately shaped ones.

Synthesis. Ecosystem services provided by plant litter are driven by either one of the trait spectra or by both. In this way, the Size and Shape Spectrum‐Resource Economic Spectrum concept is a promising tool for understanding and predicting the contributions of different plant species, through the afterlife effects of their litter traits, to various important services in different ecosystems and human contexts.
Testing the optimal defense hypothesis in Stryphnodendron adstringens (Fabaceae, Mimosoideae) leaves: the role of structure, number, position and nectar composition of extrafloral nectaries
Authors: Delgado Marina N. , Somavilla Nádia S. , Báo Sônia N. , Rossatto Davi R.
Published: February 2017

Stryphnodendron adstringens is a common Cerrado tree that possesses extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) on its leaves, which are located at the base and apex of the rachis and along the secondary veins. The position of EFNs and their nectar production can be affected by defense strategies because plant organs possess different values and herbivory vulnerability. Here we aimed to elucidate anatomy, histochemistry, nectar composition and EFN number on leaves of S. adstringens in the light of the optimal defense hypothesis. We found a convergence on anatomy and histochemical characterization because the three studied types of EFNs have epidermis, secretory parenchyma and vascular tissue, showing phenolic compounds and polysaccharides in the secretory parenchyma cells. The nectar contained glucose, fructose and sucrose, which attract ants of the Camponotus and Cephalotes genus. We found differences in the number of EFNs along the secondary veins and in the nectar composition between EFNs located at the base and apex of the rachis of the leaf. The number of EFNs on the secondary veins increases from the base to the apex, suggesting a strategy to induce ant patrolling over the entire leaf region. EFNs at the base secreted more nectar, which should be related to the protection of the leaf base, which is the part most vulnerable to herbivore attack and the most valued organ. We concluded that EFNs of S. adstringens are anti‐herbivore defenses whose pattern matches the predictions of the optimal defense hypothesis.
Indian students learning to read English: an analysis using the simple view of reading
Authors: Paige David D. , Smith Grant S.
Published: February 2017

The simple view of reading hypothesises that reading comprehension is predicted by decoding and language abilities. In this study, 257 fifth‐grade English‐language learners (Ells) in south‐central India were assessed on reading and language measures. Using a model of the simple view, we fit the data using path analysis to determine the extent to which it predicts reading comprehension. Results show that the effect of listening vocabulary on reading comprehension is mediated by listening comprehension, while the effect of word reading fluency on reading comprehension is mediated by passage reading fluency. The final path model explains 33.8% of the variance in reading comprehension. Results are discussed in relation to previous studies.
Antimicrobial activity of biogenically produced spherical Se‐nanomaterials embedded in organic material against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains on hydroxyapatite‐coated surfaces
Authors: Piacenza Elena , Presentato Alessandro , Zonaro Emanuele , Lemire Joseph A. , Demeter Marc , Vallini Giovanni , Turner Raymond J. , Lampis Silvia
Published: February 2017

In an effort to prevent the formation of pathogenic biofilms on hydroxyapatite (HA)‐based clinical devices and surfaces, we present a study evaluating the antimicrobial efficacy of Spherical biogenic Se‐Nanostructures Embedded in Organic material (Bio Se‐NEMO‐S) produced by Bacillus mycoides SelTE01 in comparison with two different chemical selenium nanoparticle (SeNP) classes. These nanomaterials have been studied as potential antimicrobials for eradication of established HA‐grown biofilms, for preventing biofilm formation on HA‐coated surfaces and for inhibition of planktonic cell growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCTC 12934 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Bio Se‐NEMO resulted more efficacious than those chemically produced in all tested scenarios. Bio Se‐NEMO produced by B. mycoides SelTE01 after 6 or 24 h of Na2SeO3 exposure show the same effective antibiofilm activity towards both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus strains at 0.078 mg ml−1 (Bio Se‐NEMO6) and 0.3125 mg ml−1 (Bio Se‐NEMO24). Meanwhile, chemically synthesized SeNPs at the highest tested concentration (2.5 mg ml−1) have moderate antimicrobial activity. The confocal laser scanning micrographs demonstrate that the majority of the P. aeruginosa and S. aureus cells exposed to biogenic SeNPs within the biofilm are killed or eradicated. Bio Se‐NEMO therefore displayed good antimicrobial activity towards HA‐grown biofilms and planktonic cells, becoming possible candidates as new antimicrobials.
Impact of leopards on a working ranch in Laikipia, Kenya
Authors: Mizutani Fumi
Published: February 2017

This study of leopard predation on livestock was carried out on the Lolldaiga Hills ranch (200 km2) in the Laikipia District in Kenya between September 1989 and August 1995. The aims of the study were to find out whether leopards depend on livestock as a food resource on the ranch, and to quantify the economic impact of leopards on the livestock production systems. The density of leopards was estimated in three ways, and the biomass density of potential prey for leopards, both wild and domestic. Diet analysis of leopards revealed that leopards are not relying on livestock as an important food resource. To quantify the effects of leopards, an approach used in the economic assessment of agricultural development schemes was adopted (Gittinger, 1982) and models were derived by following those criteria. It was found that leopards, not being persecuted, live at a relatively high density on the ranch but have less of an adverse impact on livestock than might be expected. Wildlife as a food resource for leopards and a buffer against the killing of livestock could be of benefit on a working ranch to reduce the economic impact of predators on the production system.
Riding the rural radio wave: The impact of a community‐led drug and alcohol radio advertising campaign in a remote Australian Aboriginal community
Authors: Munro Alice , Allan Julaine , Shakeshaft Anthony , Snijder Mieke
Published: February 2017

Objective

Aboriginal people experience a higher burden of disease as a consequence of drug and alcohol (D&A) abuse. Although media campaigns can be a popular tool for disseminating health promotion messages, evidence of the extent to which they reduce the impact of substance abuse is limited, especially for rural Aboriginal communities. This paper is the first to examine the impact a locally designed D&A radio advertising campaign for Aboriginal people in a remote community in Western NSW.

Design

A post‐intervention evaluation.

Setting

The radio campaign was implemented in Bourke, (population 2465, 30% Aboriginal).

Participants

Fifty‐three community surveys were completed.

Main outcome measure(s)

The self‐reported level of awareness of the campaign and the number of self‐referrals to local D&A workers in the intervention period.

Results

Most respondents (79%) reported they listen to radio on a daily basis, with 75% reporting that they had heard one or more of the advertisements. The advertisement that was remembered best contained the voice of a respected, local person. There was one self‐referral to local health services during the intervention timeframe.

Conclusion

The community‐led radio advertising campaign increased community awareness of substance abuse harms, but had limited impact on formal help‐seeking. This paper highlights the value of radio as a commonly used, trusted and culturally relevant health promotion medium for rural communities, especially when engaging local respected Aboriginal presenters.
Predictors of response to a low‐FODMAP diet in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders and lactose or fructose intolerance
Authors: Wilder‐Smith C. H. , Olesen S. S. , Materna A. , Drewes A. M.
Published: February 2017

Background

Diets low in fermentable sugars (low‐FODMAP diets) are increasingly adopted by patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID), but outcome predictors are unclear.

Aim

To identify factors predictive of an efficacious response to a low‐FODMAP diet in FGID patients with fructose or lactose intolerance thereby gaining insights into underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Fructose and lactose breath tests were performed in FGID patients to determine intolerance (positive symptom score) and malabsorption (increased hydrogen or methane concentrations). Patients with fructose or lactose intolerance consumed a low‐FODMAP diet and global adequate symptom relief was assessed after 6–8 weeks and correlated with pre‐diet clinical symptoms and breath test results.

Results

A total of 81% of 584 patients completing the low‐FODMAP diet achieved adequate relief, without significant differences between FGID subgroups or types of intolerance. Univariate analysis yielded predictive factors in fructose intolerance (chronic diarrhoea and pruritus, peak methane concentrations and fullness during breath tests) and lactose intolerance (peak hydrogen and methane concentrations and flatulence during breath tests). Using multivariate analysis, symptom relief was independently and positively predicted in fructose intolerance by chronic diarrhoea [odds ratio (95% confidence intervals): 2.62 (1.31–5.27), P = 0.007] and peak breath methane concentrations [1.53 (1.02–2.29), P = 0.042], and negatively predicted by chronic nausea [0.33 (0.16–0.67), P = 0.002]. No independent predictive factors emerged for lactose intolerance.

Conclusions

Adequate global symptom relief was achieved with a low‐FODMAP diet in a large majority of functional gastrointestinal disorders patients with fructose or lactose intolerance. Independent predictors of a satisfactory dietary outcome were only seen in fructose intolerant patients, and were indicative of changes in intestinal host or microbiome metabolism.
Body image disturbance and skin bleaching
Authors: Charles Christopher A. D. , McLean Shua‐Kym
Published: February 2017

This study looks at body image disturbance among Jamaicans who bleach their skin. The hypothesis states that there is a positive relationship between skin bleaching and body image disturbance. The study used a convenience sample of 160 participants with a skin bleaching group (n = 80) and a non‐bleaching comparison group (n = 80). The instrument included demographic questions, the body image disturbance questionnaire (BIDQ), and questions about skin bleaching. The results of a t‐test revealed that the skin bleaching group (M = 1.5255, SD = 0.42169) was not significantly different from the non‐bleaching group (M = 1.4938, SD = 0.74217) in terms of body image disturbance, t(158) = 0.333, p = .740. The participants who bleached did not suffer from body image disturbance. Self‐reports revealed that they bleached to acquire beauty, attract a partner, elude the police, and market skin bleaching products. The practice was fashionable and popular and it made some participants feel good, while others were fans of a popular musical artiste who bleached his skin. The majority of participants bleached because of the perceived personal, social, and entrepreneurial benefits of the practice and not because they suffered emotional distress, anxiety, and functional impairment because of their skin colour. However, there was some level of BID among the minority of participants who argued that they bleached because they wanted to be pretty so they were emotionally distressed about there body image and experienced functional impairment.
Enhanced expression of the M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase is involved in gastric cancer development by regulating cancer‐specific metabolism
Authors: Shiroki Takeharu , Yokoyama Misa , Tanuma Nobuhiro , Maejima Ryuhei , Tamai Keiichi , Yamaguchi Kazunori , Oikawa Tomoyuki , Noguchi Tetsuya , Miura Koh , Fujiya Tsuneaki , Shima Hiroshi , Sato Ikuro , Murata‐Kamiya Naoko , Hatakeyama Masanori , Iijima Katsunori , Shimosegawa Tooru , Satoh Kennichi
Published: February 2017

Recent studies have indicated that increased expression of the M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase (PKM2) is involved in glycolysis and tumor development. However, little is known about the role of PKM2 in gastric cancer (GC). Therefore, we examined the expression and function of PKM2 in human GC. We evaluated PKM1 and PKM2 expression by quantitative RT‐PCR in gastric tissues from 10 patients who underwent gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection, 80 patients who underwent gastrectomy, and seven healthy volunteers, and analyzed the correlation with clinicopathological variables. To assess the function of PKM2, we generated PKM2‐knockdown GC cells, and investigated the phenotypic changes. Furthermore, we examined the induction of PKM2 expression by cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA), a pathogenic factor of Helicobacter pylori, using CagA‐inducible GC cells. We found that PKM2 was predominantly expressed not only in GC lesions but also in the normal gastric regions of GC patients and in the gastric mucosa of healthy volunteers. The PKM2 expression was significantly higher in carcinoma compared to non‐cancerous tissue and was associated with venous invasion. Knockdown of PKM2 in GC cells caused significant decreases in cellular proliferation, migration, anchorage‐independent growth, and sphere formation in vitro, and in tumor growth and liver metastasis in vivo. The serine concentration‐dependent cell proliferation was also inhibited by PKM2 silencing. Furthermore, we found that PKM2 expression was upregulated by CagA by way of the Erk pathway. These results suggested that enhanced PKM2 expression plays a pivotal role in the carcinogenesis and development of GC in part by regulating cancer‐specific metabolism.
Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein induced mouse hippocampal HT‐22 cell damage via promoting the shift from autophagy to apoptosis
Authors: Gu Hong‐Feng , Li Hai‐Zhe , Xie Xue‐Jiao , Tang Ya‐Ling , Tang Xiao‐Qing , Nie Ya‐Xiong , Liao Duan‐Fang
Published: February 2017

Aims

Although oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) in the brain induces neuronal death, the mechanism underlying the damage effects remains largely unknown. Given that the ultimate outcome of a cell is depended on the balance between autophagy and apoptosis, this study was performed to explore whether ox‐LDL induced HT‐22 neuronal cell damage via autophagy impairment and apoptosis enhancement.

Methods

Flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to evaluate changes in cell apoptosis and autophagy, respectively. The protein expression of LC3‐II, p62, Bcl‐2, and Bax in HT‐22 cells was measured by Western bolt analysis.

Results

Our study confirmed that 100 μg/mL of ox‐LDL not only promoted TH‐22 cell apoptosis, characterized by elevated cell apoptosis rate and Bax protein expression, decreased Bcl‐2 protein expression, and damaged cellular ultrastructures, but also impaired autophagy as indicated by the decreased LC3‐II levels and the increased p62 levels. Importantly, all of these effects of ox‐LDL were significantly aggravated by cotreatment with chloroquine (an inhibitor of autophagy flux). In contrast, cotreatment with rapamycin (an inducer of autophagy) remarkably reversed these effects of ox‐LDL.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results indicated that ox‐LDL‐induced shift from autophagy to apoptosis contributes to HT‐22 cell damage.
NETWORKS AND SELECTION IN INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION TO SPAIN
Authors: Neubecker Nina , Smolka Marcel , Steinbacher Anne
Published: February 2017

We offer fresh evidence on the effect of migrant networks on two essential aspects of migration: (1) the total scale of migration and (2) the skill composition of migration. Our analysis is for the remarkable case of Spain, which experienced a full‐blown immigration boom from the mid‐1990s up to the Global Financial Crisis. To accommodate flexible substitution patterns across alternative migrant destinations, we use a three‐level nested multinomial logit model. We find a strong positive network effect on the scale of migration and a strong negative effect on the ratio of high‐skilled to low‐skilled migrants. Simplifying restrictions on the structure of cross‐destination substitutability are rejected by the data. (JEL F22, J61)
First report of Cryptosphaeria pullmanensis as causal agent of Cryptosphaeria canker of Populus nigra in Iran
Authors: Mehrabi M. , Hemmati R. , Trouillas F. P.
Published: February 2017

A diatrypaceous fungus was isolated consistently from cankers on Populus nigra trees showing dieback symptoms in Kohgiluyeh Boyer‐Ahmad, Zanjan and Esfahan provinces in Iran. Morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of the ITS region of the rDNA identified the taxon as Cryptosphaeria pullmanensis. Pathogenicity tests conducted in potted 3‐month‐old cuttings of P. nigra confirmed Koch's postulates and revealed that C. pullmanensis caused canker on this host. This is the first report of C. pullmanensis causing a canker disease on P. nigra in Iran.
The Headache That Changed History: The Most Famous Thunderclap Headache
Authors: Lomazow Steven
Published: February 2017

Background

Franklin Delano Roosevelt's fatal brain hemorrhage on April 12, 1945 provides an excellent platform for the study of the potential causes of one of the most famous headaches in history.

Impression

The differential diagnosis of thunderclap headache, including hypertension and melanoma, is discussed, as are Roosevelt's health problems in the context of how serious diseases of our leaders can have a tangible effect upon historical interpretation.

Discussion

A large body of evidence is presented in support of a probable cover‐up of Roosevelt's health problems, perpetrated by his doctors and close confidantes. The necessity of challenging conventional thinking about the health of our leaders and the fundamental importance of understanding their health issues is also emphasized.
Mycetoma‐like chromoblastomycosis: a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Jaleel Ameena , Celine Machiyanickel I. , Sobhanakumari Kunjumani , Sadanandan Sadeep M. , Shanimole Puthenpurayil E. , Sobhana Surendran Susna
Published: February 2017

Objectives

Mycetoma and chromoblastomycosis are subcutaneous fungal infections caused by pigmented fungi, common in the tropics and subtropics. Here we report a pregnant woman who presented with a swelling around the ankle joint which was clinically diagnosed as a case of mycetoma; however, further investigations revealed it to be a case of chromoblastomycosis.

Methods

24 year old primigravida presented with an indurated swelling around the ankle joint with multiple nodules and sinuses draining serosanguinous discharge. There was no improvement with antibiotic therapy or surgical debridement. Patient was investigated in detail including radiographs, KOH smear, pus culture and biopsy for histopathology and fungal culture.

Results

o grains were identified from the discharge and KOH smear was negative for fungal elements. Pus culture revealed no bacterial growth. On the other hand, histopathology and fungal culture confirmed it to be a case of chromoblastomycosis caused by Fonsecaea pedrosoi. Treatment was initiated with terbinafine 250 mg daily, and patient showed excellent response within 6 months of therapy.

Conclusion

This unusual mycetoma‐like presentation of chromoblastomycosis has not been previously reported in literature and may be attributed to the altered immune status in pregnancy. This should alert the clinician about the need to be vigilant of the atypical presentations of well‐known dermatological conditions, especially in special situations like pregnancy.
Evaluation of a general practitioner‐led cardiometabolic clinic: Physical health profile and treatment outcomes for clients on clozapine
Authors: Coates Dominiek , Woodford Patricia , Higgins Oliver , Grover Deborah
Published: February 2017

The present study is a review of a cardiometabolic clinic for consumers taking clozapine. This clinic was recently established and co‐located with the clozapine clinic at a regional hospital in New South Wales, Australia, to enhance engagement and improve the physical health outcomes of consumers taking antipsychotic medication. A descriptive analysis of clients’ (n = 73) information collected during routine care for the first 6 months of the clinic's operation, from January 2016 to July 2016, was conducted. First‐visit data were analysed to establish a client profile, consisting of weight, height, blood pressure, pulse, a range of blood measurements, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and eating and exercise habits. Data collected for clients who had three or more visits with the general practitioner (n = 40) were analysed separately for outcomes. Two case studies are used to depict the service received and client profile. At the first appointment, the majority of clients had metabolic syndrome that was mostly left untreated; many of these clients were commenced on metformin. The outcomes are positive, and show that the majority of clients lost weight (82.5%) and had a reduction in body mass index (84.6%); nearly half (44.4%) had a reduction in waist circumference. The majority of clients self‐reported increased physical activity (72.5%, n = 29) and positive dietary changes (77.5%, n = 31) since their first appointment. The model trialled by the cardiometabolic clinic integrated a specialist mental health and primary care service, and demonstrates success in engaging clients with severe mental illness in physical health care. Co‐location is conceptualized as critical for positive patient outcomes and high levels of engagement.
Service Lifetime, Storage Time, and Disposal Pathways of Electronic Equipment: A Swiss Case Study
Authors: Thiébaud (‐Müller) Esther , Hilty Lorenz M. , Schluep Mathias , Widmer Rolf , Faulstich Martin
Published: February 2017

Product lifetime is an essential aspect of dynamic material flow analyses and has been modeled using lifetime distribution functions, mostly average lifetimes. Existing data regarding the lifetime of electronic equipment (EE) are based on diverging definitions of lifetime as well as different temporal and regional scopes. After its active use, EE is often not disposed of immediately, but remains in storage for some time. Specific data on the share of EE that is stored and the time they remain in storage are scarce. This article investigates the service lifetime, storage time, and disposal pathways of ten electronic device types, based on data from an online survey complemented by structured interviews. We distinguish between new and secondhand devices and compute histograms, averages, and medians of the different lifetimes and their change over time. The average service lifetime varies from 3.3 years for mobile phones to 10.8 years for large loudspeakers, the average storage time from 0.8 years for flat panel display televisions to 3.6 years for large loudspeakers. Most service lifetime histograms are positively skewed and show substantial differences among device types. The storage time histograms, being more similar to one another, indicate that the storage behavior is similar for most device types. The data on disposal pathways show that a large proportion of devices are stored and reused before they reach the collection scheme.
A Metric for Quantifying Product‐Level Circularity
Authors: Linder Marcus , Sarasini Steven , van Loon Patricia
Published: February 2017

Circularity metrics are useful for empirically assessing the effects of a circular economy in terms of profitability, job creation, and environmental impacts. At present, however, there is no standardized method for measuring the circularity of products. We start by reviewing existing product‐level metrics in terms of validity and reliability, taking note of theoretically justified principles for aggregating different types of material flows and cycles into a single value. We then argue that the economic value of product parts may constitute a useful basis for such aggregation; describe a set of principles for using economic value as a basis for measuring product circularity; and outline a metric that utilizes this approach. Our recommendation is to use the ratio of recirculated economic value to total product value as a circularity metric, using value chain costs as an estimator. In order to protect value chain actors’ sensitive financial data and facilitate neutrality regarding outsourcing or insourcing, we suggest a means to calculate product‐level circularity based on sequential approximations of adding one product part and activity at a time. We conclude by suggesting potential avenues for further research, including ways in which the proposed metric can be used in wider assessments of the circular economy, and ways in which it may be further refined.