bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial memory formation requires netrin-1 expression by neurons in the adult mammalian brain
Authors: Wong Edwin W. , Glasgow Stephen D. , Trigiani Lianne J. , Chitsaz Daryan , Rymar Vladimir , Sadikot Abbas , Ruthazer Edward S. , Hamel Edith , Kennedy Timothy E.
Published: February 2019

Netrin-1 was initially characterized as an axon guidance molecule that is essential for normal embryonic neural development; however, many types of neurons continue to express netrin-1 in the postnatal and adult mammalian brain. Netrin-1 and the netrin receptor DCC are both enriched at synapses. In the adult hippocampus, activity-dependent secretion of netrin-1 by neurons potentiates glutamatergic synapse function, and is critical for long-term potentiation, an experimental cellular model of learning and memory. Here, we assessed the impact of neuronal expression of netrin-1 in the adult brain on behavior using tests of learning and memory. We show that adult mice exhibit impaired spatial memory following conditional deletion of netrin-1 from glutamatergic neurons in the hippocampus and neocortex. Further, we provide evidence that mice with conditional deletion of netrin-1 do not display aberrant anxiety-like phenotypes and show a reduction in self-grooming behavior. These findings reveal a critical role for netrin-1 expressed by neurons in the regulation of spatial memory formation.
Zone plates for angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy providing sub-micrometre resolution in the extreme ultraviolet regime
Authors: Rösner Benedikt , Dudin Pavel , Bosgra Jeroen , Hoesch Moritz , David Christian
Published: February 2019

This article reports on the fabrication and testing of dedicated Fresnel zone plates for use at the nano-ARPES branch of the I05-ARPES beamline of Diamond Light Source to perform angle-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy with sub-micrometre resolution in real space. The aim of the design was to provide high photon flux combined with sub-micrometre spot sizes. The focusing lenses were tested with respect to efficiency and spatial resolution in the extreme ultraviolet between 50 eV and 90 eV. The experimentally determined diffraction efficiencies of the zone plates are as high as 8.6% at 80 eV, and a real-space resolution of 0.4 µm was demonstrated. Using the zone-plate-based setup, monolayer flakes of the two-dimensional semiconductor WS2 were investigated. This work demonstrates that the local electronic structure can be obtained from an area of a few micrometres across a two-dimensional heterostructure.
Rigid-body motion is the main source of diffuse scattering in protein crystallography
Authors: de Klijn T. , Schreurs A. M. M. , Kroon-Batenburg L. M. J.
Published: February 2019

The origin of diffuse X-ray scattering from protein crystals has been the subject of debate over the past three decades regarding whether it arises from correlated atomic motions within the molecule or from rigid-body disorder. Here, a supercell approach to modelling diffuse scattering is presented that uses ensembles of molecular models representing rigid-body motions as well as internal motions as obtained from ensemble refinement. This approach allows oversampling of Miller indices and comparison with equally oversampled diffuse data, thus allowing the maximum information to be extracted from experiments. It is found that most of the diffuse scattering comes from correlated motions within the unit cell, with only a minor contribution from longer-range correlated displacements. Rigid-body motions, and in particular rigid-body translations, make by far the most dominant contribution to the diffuse scattering, and internal motions give only a modest addition. This suggests that modelling biologically relevant protein dynamics from diffuse scattering may present an even larger challenge than was thought.
X-ray scanning microscopies of microcalcifications in abdominal aortic and popliteal artery aneurysms
Authors: Giannini C. , Ladisa M. , Lutz-Bueno V. , Terzi A. , Ramella M. , Fusaro L. , Altamura D. , Siliqi D. , Sibillano T. , Diaz A. , Boccafoschi F. , Bunk O.
Published: February 2019

Abdominal aortic and popliteal artery aneurysms are vascular diseases which show massive degeneration, weakening of the vascular wall and loss of the vascular tissue functionality. They are driven by inflammatory, hemodynamical factors and biological alterations that may lead, in the case of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, to sudden and dangerous ruptures of the arteries. Here, human aortic and popliteal aneurysm tissues were obtained during surgical repair, and studied by synchrotron radiation X-ray scanning microdiffraction and small-angle scattering, to investigate the microcalcifications present in the tissues. Data collected during the experiments were transformed into quantitative microscopy images through the combination of statistical approaches and crystallographic methods. As a result of this multi-step analysis, microcalcifications, which are markers of the pathology, were classified in terms of chemical and structural content. This analysis helped to identify the presence of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite and microcrystalline cholesterol, embedded in myofilament, and elastin-containing tissue with low collagen content in predominantly nanocrystalline areas. The generality of the approach allows it to be transferred to other types of tissue and other pathologies affected by microcalcifications, such as thyroid carcinoma, breast cancer, testicular microlithiasis or glioblastoma.
Being a cleaner in The Netherlands: coping with the dirty work stigma
Authors: van Vlijmen Jorcho
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This study aims to explore what it is like to be a cleaner in the Netherlands. Drawing on the dirty work theory, it answers the question of how cleaners in the Netherlands cope with the dirty work stigma.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative approach: 24 cleaners were interviewed and the researcher participated in a three-month cleaning course. By doing so, an insiders’ perspective was taken. Drawing upon the dirty work theory, a thematic analysis was made.

Findings

Cleaners take great pride in their work, but because of their social invisibility, they are not recognized by the people they work for, and they fail in being proud of themselves. This has moral consequences since cleaners start doubting whether they are seen as equal. Eventually, cleaners have an ambivalent relationship with their job.

Practical implications

Given the moral consequences, FM practitioners and researchers should take these findings into account. As FM value is dependent on the quality of the relations between FM and its stakeholders (e.g. cleaners), FM is challenged to think about its responsibilities toward cleaners and other dirty workers in its context.

Originality/value

There is not much research done in cleaning. The research that is done focuses on efficiency and organization of cleaning. Only little research focuses on the cleaner, an insiders’ perspective is scarce.
Floor finish selection in the design of healthcare facilities: a survey of facility managers
Authors: Dixit Manish K. , Singh Shashank , Lavy Sarel , Yan Wei , Pariafsai Fatemeh , Ostadalimakhmalbaf Mohammadreza
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to create a knowledge base for decision-making in healthcare design by seeking, analyzing and discussing the preferences of facility managers of healthcare facilities regarding floor finishes and their selection criteria. The goal is to enable a simplified and holistic selection of floor finishes based on multiple criteria. The authors studied floor finish selection in three healthcare units: emergency, surgery and in-patient units.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors completed a literature review to identify types of floor finishes currently used in healthcare facilities and the criteria applied for their selection. Using the literature survey results, a questionnaire was designed and administered to healthcare facility managers. The descriptive statistical analysis and the Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-ranks tests were used for reporting and analyzing the survey data.

Findings

The top five floor finishes used in the healthcare sector were identified as vinyl flooring, vinyl composite tile (VCT), rubber, linoleum and ceramic flooring. The top five selection criteria for floor finishes were durability, infection control, ease of maintenance, maintenance cost and user safety. The non-parametric test results show that the floor finish rankings and selection criteria were similar in the three healthcare units under study.

Originality/value

The most significant contribution of this research is to the design decision-making process of healthcare facilities. These results offer an understanding of what floor finishes are preferred by healthcare facility managers and why. This knowledge is crucial for designers and facility managers to make informed choices and floor finish manufacturers to keep their product line relevant to the industry.
Antecedents and outcomes of relationship quality in casual dining restaurants
Authors: Prayag Girish , Hosany Sameer , Taheri Babak , Ekiz Erdogan Haktan
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This study examines the mediating effects of relationship quality (RQ) on the relationship between six antecedents and loyalty and the moderating effects of gender on these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a convenience sample of 300 respondents as they exited well-known casual dining restaurants in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia.

Findings

With the exception of physical environment, food quality, customer orientation, communication, relationship benefits and price fairness were significant predictors of RQ. RQ partially mediates the relationships between its antecedents and loyalty. Multi-group analyses reveal significant differences between males and females on these relationships.

Research limitations/implications

At the theoretical level, the study contributes to the conceptualization of RQ in tourism and hospitality research. The sample is not representative of all casual dining restaurants in KL, but findings have important implications for restaurant management in terms of relationship marketing, advertising strategies and customer loyalty development.

Originality/value

The study extends existing models of RQ in the hospitality and tourism literature by confirming that RQ is best modeled as a second-order construct consisting of three first-order dimensions: trust, satisfaction and commitment. The study also demonstrates that RQ mediates the relationship between the antecedents of RQ and loyalty. Finally, this research confirms the moderating effects of gender on the hypothesized relationships.
Participation and conflict between local community and institutions in conservation processes
Authors: Cina’ Giuseppe , Demiröz Merve , Mu Qi
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue the many ways in which the conservation and revitalisation processes in Novara carried out over several decades are representative not only of the Italian approach to urban conservation but also of the fruitful relationship between institutional and social bodies.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an exploratory study approach, this paper illustrates how social actors contributed to the conservation process of Novara Old Town, and documents the regeneration of two historic complexes, the Castle of Novara and Casa Bossi. To do so, it drew upon content analyses of the official reports and planning tools and a set of semi-structured interviews conducted with the representatives of the community organisations and the Municipal Planning Board.

Findings

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of a third actor whose double role entails cooperation and conflict. The participatory approach applied in these two heritage complexes has proved to be cost-effective because it is inherently able to effect “planning in the public domain” and address socially sustainable outcomes.

Originality/value

The Italian approach to the conservation of historic cities has been widely acknowledged as a “good recipe” in the international context. However, little attention has been paid to how this success story depends on a unique relationship between public bodies and local communities. To fill this gap, the paper shed light on the historic centre of Novara and two particular heritage complexes in terms of the relations of different actors in conservation and regeneration processes.
DoesShariahcommittee composition influenceShariahgovernance disclosure?
Authors: Noordin Nazrul Hazizi , Kassim Salina
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the empirical linkage between the composition ofShariahCommittee and the extent ofShariahgovernance disclosure in 16 licensed Islamic banks in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopted a multiple regression analysis to test the association between the composition ofShariahCommittee and the extent ofShariahgovernance disclosure. A disclosure index was developed to measure the extent ofShariahgovernance disclosure made by the Islamic banks. Whereas to measure the extent ofShariahgovernance disclosure, this study used content analysis as a method of coding qualitative information in the annual reports.

Findings

Using 2009 data, the study found a significant association between different compositions of theShariahCommittee in the Malaysian Islamic banks and theirShariahgovernance disclosure level before the introduction of theShariahGovernance Framework (SGF). However, because of less variation in the composition ofShariahCommittee after the introduction of SGF 2010, a weak linkage was found between the composition ofShariahCommittee and the extent ofShariahdisclosure of Malaysian Islamic banks in 2013.

Research limitations/implications

Findings of this study offer several implications for further improvements of the Malaysian Islamic banking sector in particular, and other Islamic banks globally. As better composition ofShariahCommittee in terms of its size, academic background and other relevant expertise would result in effective monitoring system leading to better practices ofShariahdisclosure, this finding highlights the relevance and important role of theShariahCommittee in improving voluntaryShariahdisclosure level of the Islamic banks. This finding suggests that ample focus has to be channelled in strengthening the composition ofShariahCommittee in crafting future development of SGF in Malaysia. It is also suggested that Islamic banks need to give priority in providing more education and training in various areas of expertise to theirShariahCommittee members that would result in greater confidence of investors, stakeholders and the society on the information disclosed by the banks.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper lies in highlighting the importance of different composition ofShariahCommittee in determining the extent of voluntary disclosure made onShariahmatters by the Islamic banks.
Species richness of polypores can be increased by supplementing dead wood resource into a boreal forest landscape
Authors: Elo Merja , Halme Panu , Toivanen Tero , Kotiaho Janne S.
Published: February 2019

To prevent local species extinction and to counteract population declines, we must ensure species have access to resources they require for life. This can be done through ecological restoration where previously depleted resources are reintroduced. If the restoration is conducted as a one‐off action in a large area, it resembles a natural resource pulse, which should lead to increased abundance of individuals, accompanied possibly by increased species richness. Species–energy relationship and underlying theory enable predictions about how different features of resource pulses affect species richness.

We conducted a large‐scale, controlled, randomized and replicated field experiment to study the effect of a resource addition on polypore species richness in a previously managed boreal forest landscape in Finland. We manipulated the amount and distribution of dead wood and studied the effects on polypore assemblages on added and natural dead wood during 9 years after manipulation (2004–2012).

By adding dead wood, species richness grew, mainly through increasing abundances: a large amount of dead wood resulted in higher abundance, higher number and faster accumulation of species than a small amount of dead wood.

For a given abundance, dead wood addition contained fewer species than natural dead wood. This is most probably because added dead wood was of low diversity and provided habitat only for a limited number of species.

Species richness on natural dead wood increased substantially during the study period, and this increase was not related to the resource manipulation. Thus, habitat improvement through natural succession can occur within a relatively short time period irrespective of human intervention.

Synthesis and applications. We demonstrate how the introduction of dead wood additions can strengthen polypore populations. The species taking advance of the introduced resource were primarily common species, instead of rare or red‐listed species. Thus, we recommend ensuring the natural formation of dead wood while the populations of the common species supporting ecosystem functions can be increased by adding dead wood in the landscape.
Knockout of three aminopeptidase N genes does not affect susceptibility of Helicoverpa armigera larvae to Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1A and Cry2A toxins
Authors: Wang Jing , Zuo Ya‐Yun , Li Ling‐Li , Wang Hui , Liu Shao‐Yan , Yang Yi‐Hua , Wu Yi‐Dong
Published: February 2019

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal toxins have been globally utilized for control of agricultural insects through spraying or transgenic crops. Binding of Bt toxins to special receptors on midgut epithelial cells of target insects is a key step in the mode of action. Previous studies suggested aminopeptidase N1 (APN1) as a receptor or putative receptor in several lepidopteran insects including Helicoverpa armigera through evidence from RNA interefence‐based gene silencing approaches. In the current study we tested the role of APNs in the mode of action of Bt toxins using clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9‐mediated gene knockout. Three APN genes (HaAPN1, HaAPN2 and HaAPN5) were individually knocked out in a susceptible strain (SCD) of H. armigera to establish three homozygous knockout strains. Qualitative in vitro binding studies indicated binding of Cry1Ac or Cry2Ab to midgut brush border membrane vesicles was not obviously affected by APN knockout. Bioassay results showed that none of the three knockouts had significant changes in susceptibility to Cry1A or Cry2A toxins when compared with the SCD strain. This suggests that the three HaAPN genes we tested may not be critical in the mode of action of Cry1A or Cry2A toxins in H. armigera.
Determination of Peptide Profile Consistency and Safety of Collagen Hydrolysates as Quality Attributes
Authors: López‐Morales Carlos A. , Vázquez‐Leyva Said , Vallejo‐Castillo Luis , Carballo‐Uicab Gregorio , Muñoz‐García Leslie , Herbert‐Pucheta José Enrique , Zepeda‐Vallejo L. Gerardo , Velasco‐Velázquez Marco , Pavón Lenin , Pérez‐Tapia Sonia M. , Medina‐Rivero Emilio
Published: February 2019

Collagen hydrolysates are dietary supplements used for nutritional and medical purposes. They are complex mixtures of low‐molecular‐weight peptides obtained from the enzymatic hydrolysis of collagen, which provide intrinsic batch‐to‐batch heterogeneity. In consequence, the quality of these products, which is related to the reproducibility of their mass distribution pattern, should be addressed. Here, we propose an analytical approach to determine the peptide pattern as a quality attribute of Colagenart®, a product containing collagen hydrolysate. In addition, we evaluated the safety by measuring the viability of two cell lines exposed to the product. The consistency of peptide distribution was determined using Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), Mass Spectrometry coupled to a reversed phase UPLC system (MS‐RP‐UPLC), and Shaped‐pulse off‐resonance water‐presaturation proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry [1Hwater_presat NMR]. The mass distribution pattern determined by SEC was in a range from 1.35 to 17 kDa, and from 2 to 14 kDa by MS‐RP‐UPLC. [1Hwater_presat NMR] showed the detailed spin‐systems of the collagen hydrolysates components by global assignment of backbone Hα and NH, as well as side‐chain proton resonances. Additionally, short‐range intraresidue connectivity pathways of identified spin‐regions were obtained by a 2D homonuclear shift correlation Shaped‐pulse solvent suppression COSY scheme. Safety analysis of Colagenart® was evaluated in CaCo‐2 and HepG2 cells at 2.5 and 25 μg/mL and no negative effects were observed. The results demonstrated batch‐to‐batch reproducibility, which evinces the utility of this approach to establish the consistency of the quality attributes of collagen hydrolysates.

Practical Application

We propose state‐of‐the art analytical methodologies (SEC, MS, and NMR) to evaluate peptide profile and composition of collagen hydrolysates as quality attributes. These methodologies are suitable to be implemented for quality control purposes.
The Alternate Consumption of Quercetin and Alliin in the Traditional Asian Diet Reshaped Microbiota and Altered Gene Expression of Colonic Epithelial Cells in Rats
Authors: Yu Juntong , Guo Hui , Xie Jinli , Luo Jianming , Li Yuetong , Liu Liu , Ou Shiyi , Zhang Guangwen , Peng Xichun
Published: February 2019

The diet of traditional Asian is similar to the Mediterranean that was considered as a healthy dietary pattern. The report was scarce on whether different plant‐derived components with similar anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory function such as quercetin and alliin in traditional Asian diet consumed in an alternate style cooperatively affect health including the growth of host and the status of the gut microbiota and colonic epithelial immunity. In the present study, the effects of alternate consumption of quercetin and alliin on host health judging by the profile of gut microbiota and gene expression of colonic epithelial cells were investigated with the Illumina MiSeq sequencing (16S rRNA genes) and Illumina HiSeq (RNA‐seq) technique, respectively. The results showed that the alternate consumption significantly increased the rat body weight and reshaped the gut microbiota composition. At the phylum level, it significantly increased the relative abundance of fecal Firmicutes and Cyanobacteria but decreased that of Bacteroidetes (P < 0.05) and increased the relative abundance of Candidatus Arthromitus, Lactococcus, Geobacillus, and Ruminococcus at the genus level that benefits the host's health. The alternate consumption of quercetin and alliin also altered 13 genes expression involved in the KEGG pathways of complement and coagulation cascades and hematopoietic cell lineage to improve the gut immunity. Therefore, the alternate consumption of quercetin and alliin in traditional Asian diet can contribute beneficial metabolic effects by optimizing gut microbiota and altering the immunologic function of colonic epithelial cells, resulting in its potential to improve the sub‐health status.
Tapering decay of β‐cell function in Chinese patients with autoimmune type 1 diabetes: A four‐year prospective study
Authors: Li Xia , Cheng Jin , Huang Gan , Luo Shuoming , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: February 2019

Background

This study investigated the natural progression of β‐cell function in Chinese autoimmune type 1 diabetic (T1D) patients and clarified factors possibly influencing the course of the disease.

Methods

The natural progression of β‐cell function of 325 newly diagnosed Chinese autoimmune T1D patients was assessed by fasting and postprandial C‐peptide (FCP and PCP, respectively) levels. β‐Cell function failure was defined as FCP <50 pM and PCP <100 pM, whereas preserved β‐cell function was defined as FCP >200 pM or PCP >400 pM. β‐Cell function that did not meet these criteria was described as residual.

Results

At initial recruitment, 33.3% of patients had β‐cell function failure, whereas 41.0% and 25.8% of patients had preserved or residual β‐cell function, respectively. The percentage of patients who developed β‐cell function failure during follow‐up at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months after recruitment to the study was 55.8%, 75.6%, 86.7%, and 92.7%, respectively. Moreover, the slope of the β‐cell function curve decreased over time, indicating that the pattern of its decline was non‐linear and tapering. Seven percent of patients did not develop β‐cell function failure within 4 years after diagnosis. Patients with lower initial FCP levels were more likely to develop β‐cell function failure.

Conclusions

Chinese autoimmune T1D patients have considerable residual β‐cell function at initial diagnosis, and the manner of progression of β‐cell function failure is non‐linear with a tapering decay rate. Furthermore, initial FCP levels may predict β‐cell function failure in Chinese autoimmune T1D patients.
Accelerated bio‐cognitive aging in Down syndrome: State of the art and possible deceleration strategies
Authors: Franceschi Claudio , Garagnani Paolo , Gensous Noémie , Bacalini Maria Giulia , Conte Maria , Salvioli Stefano
Published: February 2019

Down syndrome (DS) has been proposed by George Martin as a segmental progeroid syndrome since 1978. In fact, DS persons suffer from several age‐associated disorders much earlier than euploid persons. Furthermore, a series of recent studies have found that DS persons display elevated levels of age biomarkers, thus supporting the notion that DS is a progeroid trait. Nowadays, due to the progressive advancements in social inclusion processes and medical assistance, DS persons live much longer than in the past; therefore, the early‐onset health problems of these persons are becoming an urgent and largely unmet social and medical burden. In particular, the most important ailment of DS persons is the accelerated cognitive decline that starts when they reach about 40 years of age. This decline can be at least in part counteracted by multi‐systemic approaches including early‐onset cognitive training, physical activity, and psychosocial assistance. However, no pharmacological treatment is approved to counteract this decline. According to the most advanced conceptualization of Geroscience, tackling the molecular mechanisms underpinning the aging process should be a smart/feasible strategy to combat and/or delay the great majority of age‐related diseases, including cognitive decline. We think that a debate is needed urgently on if (and how) this strategy could be integrated in protocols to face DS‐associated dementia and overall unhealthy aging. In particular we propose that, on the basis of data obtained in different clinical settings, metformin is a promising candidate that could be exploited to counteract cognitive decline in DS.
The exceptional longevity of the naked mole‐rat may be explained by mitochondrial antioxidant defenses
Authors: Munro Daniel , Baldy Cécile , Pamenter Matthew E. , Treberg Jason R.
Published: February 2019

Naked mole‐rats (NMRs) are mouse‐sized mammals that exhibit an exceptionally long lifespan (>30 vs. <4 years for mice), and resist aging‐related pathologies such as cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, cancer, and neurodegeneration. However, the mechanisms underlying this exceptional longevity and disease resistance remain poorly understood. The oxidative stress theory of aging posits that (a) senescence results from the accumulation of oxidative damage inflicted by reactive oxygen species (ROS) of mitochondrial origin, and (b) mitochondria of long‐lived species produce less ROS than do mitochondria of short‐lived species. However, comparative studies over the past 28 years have produced equivocal results supporting this latter prediction. We hypothesized that, rather than differences in ROS generation, the capacity of mitochondria to consume ROS might distinguish long‐lived species from short‐lived species. To test this hypothesis, we compared mitochondrial production and consumption of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; as a proxy of overall ROS metabolism) between NMR and mouse skeletal muscle and heart. We found that the two species had comparable rates of mitochondrial H2O2 generation in both tissues; however, the capacity of mitochondria to consume ROS was markedly greater in NMRs. Specifically, maximal observed consumption rates were approximately two and fivefold greater in NMRs than in mice, for skeletal muscle and heart, respectively. Our results indicate that differences in matrix ROS detoxification capacity between species may contribute to their divergence in lifespan.
Can short selling improve internal control? An empirical study based on the difference‐in‐differences model
Authors: Chen Huili , Chen Ying , Lin Bin , Wang Yanchao
Published: February 2019

Based on pilot margin trading in China, this study examines how short selling affects internal control quality in listed firms. Using the difference‐in‐differences approach, we find that compared with control firms, firms that are eligible for short selling significantly improve their internal control after they are designated as underlying securities. We consider the effects of state ownership and external auditors. The improvement in internal control is only significant for non‐state‐owned firms and firms audited by non‐Big 4 auditors. These findings indicate that short selling can improve firms’ internal control and play a role in their corporate governance.
Measuring the increasing connectedness of Chinese assets with global assets: using a variance decompositions method
Authors: Yu Honghai , Sun Wencong , Ye Xiangting , Fang Libing
Published: February 2019

This study uses the network topology of variance decompositions to investigate the connectedness of four assets (stocks, bonds, foreign exchange and commodities) across five countries (US, EU, UK, Japan and China). We find that connectedness to and from the Chinese asset markets increased significantly from 2013 to 2018, which reveals that Chinese assets have gradually become integrated into the global economy. We also investigate the volatility connectedness in economically fragile periods and find that the Chinese market acted as a transmitter of volatility in the 2015 Chinese stock crash. This finding is potentially essential to modern risk measurement and management.
Baseline susceptibility of Bemisia tabaci MEAM1 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in Australia to spirotetramat, cyantraniliprole and dinotefuran, with reference to pyriproxyfen cross‐resistance
Authors: Hopkinson Jamie E , Pumpa Stephanie M
Published: February 2019

Silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) Middle East‐Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1), previously known as B biotype, is an agricultural pest of global significance and has developed resistance to many commonly used insecticides. Toxicity of spirotetramat, cyantraniliprole and dinotefuran to B. tabaci MEAM1 populations from eastern Australia was determined by laboratory bioassay, using either a foliar leaf dip or systemic uptake methodology. All field‐collected populations tested were susceptible to spirotetramat (12 tested from 2011 to 2015), cyantraniliprole (23 tested from 2014 to 2017) and dinotefuran (16 tested from 2015 to 2017). Based on LC50 values, there was a 2.1‐fold difference in the response of field populations to spirotetramat, a threefold difference in response to cyantraniliprole, while the response to dinotefuran varied depending on assay used, 1.8 vs. 2.6 with a foliar assay and systemic uptake assay, respectively. Testing of spirotetramat and cyantraniliprole against a pyriproxyfen‐resistant strain, AY09‐1R demonstrated no evidence of cross‐resistance to pyriproxyfen. When tested against dinotefuran, AY09‐1R had a resistance factor of two indicating possible weak cross‐resistance to pyriproxyfen, although it is also possible that the strain carries other forms of resistance given its origin. Discriminating doses of 100 mg/L for spirotetramat, 1 mg/L for cyantraniliprole and 60 mg/L (systemic) and 600 mg/L (foliar) for dinotefuran were calculated from the bioassay data. All three insecticides demonstrated good efficacy against silverleaf whitefly, and for the Australian cotton industry, they add three modes of action to the insecticide resistance management strategy, providing greater flexibility in control options. This study has established baseline toxicity data and discriminating doses for spirotetramat, cyantraniliprole and dinotefuran, which will serve as a useful reference for future monitoring and management of B. tabaci MEAM1 insecticide resistance in Australian cotton.
Team planning discussion and clinical performance: a prospective, randomised, controlled simulation trial
Authors: Evain J.‐N. , Perrot A. , Vincent A. , Cejka J.‐C. , Bauer C. , Duclos A. , Rimmelé T. , Lehot J.‐J. , Lilot M.
Published: February 2019

Planning held before emergency management of a critical situation might be an invaluable asset for optimising team preparation. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a brief planning discussion improved team performance in a simulated critical care situation. Forty‐four pairs of trainees in anaesthesia and intensive care were randomly allocated to either an intervention or control group before participating in a standardised simulated scenario. Twelve different scenarios were utilised. Groups were stratified by postgraduate year and simulated scenario, and a facilitator was embedded in the scenario. In the intervention group, the pairs had an oral briefing followed by a 4‐min planning discussion before starting the simulation. The primary end‐point was clinical performance, as rated by two independent blinded assessors on a score of 0–100 using video records and pre‐established scenario‐specific checklists. Crisis resource management and stress response (cognitive appraisal ratio) were also assessed. Two pairs were excluded for technical reasons. Clinical performance scores were higher in the intervention group; mean (SD) 51 (9) points vs. 46 (9) in the control group, p = 0.039. The planning discussion was also associated with higher crisis resource management scores and lower cognitive appraisal ratios, reflecting a positive response. A 4‐min planning discussion before a simulated critical care situation improved clinical team performance and cognitive appraisal ratios. Team planning should be integrated into medical education and clinical practice.
Placental location and pregnancy outcomes in nulliparous women: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Granfors Michaela , Stephansson Olof , Endler Margit , Jonsson Maria , Sandström Anna , Wikström Anna‐Karin
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The impact of placenta previa on pregnancy, delivery and infant outcomes has been extensively studied. However, less is known about the possible association of placental location other than previa with pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate if placental location other than previa is associated with adverse pregnancy, delivery and infant outcomes.

Material and methods

This is a population‐based cohort study, with data from the regional population‐based Stockholm‐Gotland Obstetric Cohort, Sweden, from 2008 to 2014. The study population included 74 087 nulliparous women with singleton pregnancies resulting in live‐born infants, with information about placental location from the second‐trimester ultrasound screening. The association between placental location (fundal, lateral, anterior or posterior) and pregnancy outcomes was estimated using logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated, and adjustments were made for maternal age, height, country of birth, smoking in early pregnancy, sex of the infant and in vitro fertilization. Main outcome measures were pregnancy, delivery and infant outcomes.

Results

Compared with posterior placental location, fundal and lateral placental locations were associated with a number of adverse pregnancy outcomes, the most important being: very preterm birth (<32 weeks of gestation) (adjusted OR [aOR] 1.78, 95% CI 1.18‐2.63 and aOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.39‐2.25, respectively), moderate preterm birth (32‐36 weeks of gestation) (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.001‐1.51 and aOR 1.62, 95% CI 1.32‐2.00, respectively), small‐for‐gestational‐age birth (aOR 1.67, 95% CI 1.34‐2.07 and aOR 1.77, 95% CI 1.39‐2.25, respectively) and manual removal of the placenta in vaginal births (aOR 3.27, 95% CI 2.68‐3.99 and aOR 3.27, 95% CI 2.60‐4.10, respectively). Additionally, lateral placental location was associated with preeclampsia (aOR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03‐1.65) and severe postpartum hemorrhage (aOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.27‐1.82).

Conclusions

Compared with posterior placental location, fundal and lateral placental locations are associated with a number of adverse pregnancy, delivery and infant outcomes.
Development of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay based on the monoclonal antibody of Bombyx mori to detect ancient silk
Authors: Zheng H. L. , Ma C. , Dai X. J. , Zhou Y.
Published: February 2019

Identifying the traces and residues of unearthed silk fibres is crucial for further analysis and study. In this study, an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on the monoclonal antibodies specific to Bombyx mori fibroin was developed in order to for detect ancient silk. Five monoclonal antibodies were successfully prepared based on fibroin hydrolysate, and four had a high specificity for mulberry silk. Furthermore, they could be used to discern B. mori fibre from tussah fibre and eri fibre. The ELISA standard curve of the most sensitive monoclonal antibody, anti‐Silk Fibroin (SF)‐3, was y = 0.022x + 0.177 (R2 = 0.998), and the detection limit was 4.65 ng/ml. Using this antibody, we successfully identified five ancient mulberry silk samples from different time periods. The results suggest that ELISA assays based on monoclonal antibodies can be used as an immunological testing method for unearthed silk fibre.
Effects of dapagliflozin vs vildagliptin on cardiometabolic parameters in diabetic patients with coronary artery disease: a randomised study
Authors: Phrommintikul Arintaya , Wongcharoen Wanwarang , Kumfu Sirinart , Jaiwongkam Thidarat , Gunaparn Siriluck , Chattipakorn Siriporn , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: February 2019

Aims

Sodium glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events and heart failure in type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients with high cardiovascular risk. Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors showed neutral effects and may increase risk of heart failure. We aimed to compare cardiometabolic effects of dapagliflozin and vildagliptin in T2D patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

Forty‐nine T2D patients with CAD were randomly assigned to dapagliflozin (n = 25) or vildagliptin (n = 24) for 6 months in a double‐blind fashion. Cardiometabolic parameters were collected at baseline and at the end of treatments.

Results

Mean age was 63.2 ± 7.9 years (female 46.9%). Baseline characteristics did not differ between two groups. At 6 months, HbA1C significantly decreased in both dapaglifozin and vildagliptin groups (0.6 ± 1.0% vs 0.8 ± 1.4%, P = 0.22, respectively). There was no difference between the changes in lipid profiles. Body mass index decreased in patients receiving dapagliflozin, whereas it increased in those receiving vildagliptin (−1.27 [95% confidence interval −2.01, −0.53] vs 1.72 [0.72, 2.72] kg, P < 0.001). The reduction in systolic blood pressure and high‐sensitivity troponin T was observed in the dapagliflozin group (−9.87 [−18.00, −1.15] mmHg and 2.49 [−4.50, −0.47] pg/mL) but not in vildagliptin group (−1.97 [−9.42, 5.48] mmHg and 1.98 [−0.02, 3.97] pg/mL). The mean haemoglobin increased in the dapagliflozin group, whereas the mean platelet volume increased in the vildagliptin group. There was no significant change in the inflammatory markers in both the groups.

Conclusions

The extraglycaemic effects of dapagliflozin and vildagliptin on cardiometabolic parameters in T2D with CAD were different. The more favourable effects of dapagliflozin compared to vildagliptin may have explained the cardiovascular benefits observed only in sodium glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors.
Eculizumab in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria and atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome: 10‐year pharmacovigilance analysis
Authors: Socié Gérard , Caby‐Tosi Marie‐Pierre , Marantz Jing L. , Cole Alexander , Bedrosian Camille L. , Gasteyger Christoph , Mujeebuddin Arshad , Hillmen Peter , Vande Walle Johan , Haller Hermann
Published: February 2019

Eculizumab is the first and only medication approved for paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS) treatment. However, eculizumab safety based on long‐term pharmacovigilance is unknown. This analysis summarises safety data collected from spontaneous and solicited sources from 16 March 2007 through 1 October 2016. Cumulative exposure to eculizumab was 28 518 patient‐years (PY) (PNH, 21 016 PY; aHUS, 7502 PY). Seventy‐six cases of meningococcal infection were reported (0·25/100 PY), including eight fatal PNH cases (0·03/100 PY). Susceptibility to meningococcal infections remained the key risk in patients receiving eculizumab. The meningococcal infection rate decreased over time; related mortality remained steady. The most commonly reported serious nonmeningococcal infections were pneumonia (11·8%); bacteraemia, sepsis and septic shock (11·1%); urinary tract infection (4·1%); staphylococcal infection (2·6%); and viral infection (2·5%). There were 434 reported cases of eculizumab exposure in pregnant women; of 260 cases with known outcomes, 70% resulted in live births. Reporting rates for solid tumours (≈0·6/100 PY) and haematological malignancies (≈0·74/100 PY) remained stable over time. No new safety signals affecting the eculizumab benefit‐risk profile were identified. Continued awareness and implementation of risk mitigation protocols are essential to minimise risk of meningococcal and other Neisseria infections in patients receiving eculizumab.
Sex differences in mechanisms of arterial stiffness
Authors: DuPont Jennifer J. , Kenney Rachel M. , Patel Ayan R. , Jaffe Iris Z.
Published: February 2019

Arterial stiffness progressively increases with aging and is an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Evidence supports that there are sex differences in the time course of aging‐related arterial stiffness and the associated CVD risk, which increases disproportionately in postmenopausal women. The association between arterial stiffness and mortality is almost twofold higher in women versus men. The differential clinical characteristics of the development of arterial stiffness between men and women indicate the involvement of sex‐specific mechanisms. This review summarizes the current literature on sex differences in vascular stiffness induced by aging, obesity, hypertension, and sex‐specific risk factors as well as the impact of hormonal status, diet, and exercise on vascular stiffness in males and females. An understanding of the mechanisms driving sex differences in vascular stiffness has the potential to identify novel sex‐specific therapies to lessen CVD risk, the leading cause of death in males and females.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed section on The Importance of Sex Differences in Pharmacology Research. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.21/issuetoc
Modafinil protects hippocampal neurons by suppressing excessive autophagy and apoptosis in mice with sleep deprivation
Authors: Cao Yin , Li Qinglin , Liu Lulu , Wu Hui , Huang Fei , Wang Changhong , Lan Yunyi , Zheng Fang , Xing Faping , Zhou Qiang , Li Qi , Shi Hailian , Zhang Beibei , Wang Zhengtao , Wu Xiaojun
Published: February 2019

Background and Purpose

Sleep deprivation compromises learning and memory in both humans and animals, and can be reversed by administration of modafinil, a drug promoting wakefulness. Dysfunctional autophagy increases activation of apoptotic cascades, ultimately leading to increased neuronal death, which can be alleviated by autophagy inhibitors. This study aimed to investigate the alleviative effect and mechanism of modafinil on the excessive autophagy occurring in the hippocampus of mice with deficiency of learning and memory induced by sleep deprivation.

Experimental Approach

The Morris water maze was used to assess the effects of modafinil on male C57BL/6Slac mice after 48‐hr sleep deprivation. The HT‐22 hippocampal neuronal cell line was also used. Nissl staining, transmission electron microscope, immunofluorescence, Western blot, transient transfection, and autophagy inducer were used to study the effect and mechanism of modafinil on hippocampal neurons with excessive autophagy and apoptosis.

Key Results

Modafinil improved learning and memory in sleep‐deprived mice, associated with the inhibition of excessive autophage and apoptosis and an enhanced activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR/P70S6K signalling pathway in hippocampal neurons. These effects of modafinil were abolished by rapamycin. In addition, modafinil suppressed the aberrant autophagy and apoptosis induced by rapamycin and reactivated PI3K/Akt/mTOR/P70S6K signals in HT‐22 cells.

Conclusions and Implications

These results suggested that modafinil alleviated impaired learning and memory of sleep‐deprived mice potentially by suppressing excessive autophagy and apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. This novel mechanism may add to our knowledge of modafinil in the clinical treatment of impaired memory caused by sleep loss.
The role of neutrophil activation in determining the outcome of pregnancy and modulation by hormones and/or cytokines
Authors: Hahn S , Hasler P , Vokalova L , van Breda S V , Lapaire O , Than N G , Hoesli I , Rossi S W
Published: February 2019

Neutrophils are often exclusively considered as a first-line innate immune defence, able to rapidly kill or trap pathogens and causing in case of over-activation tissue damage. In the female reproductive tract, however, the presence and activity of neutrophils seems to be tightly regulated. Major players in orchestrating this regulation are cyclical steroid sex hormones present during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. This review describes the role of sex hormones in regulating directly or indirectly the functionality of neutrophils, the role of neutrophils during fertilization and pregnancy and in controlling viral, fungal and bacterial infection. This review also discusses the consequence of overt neutrophil activation in pregnancy pathologies.