bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work–family enrichment of firefighters: “satellite family members”, risk, trauma and family functioning
Authors: Hill Rowena , Sundin Eva , Winder Belinda
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Traditionally, research exploring the work–family interface has focussed on two perspectives: the organisation and the employee. The third perspective of the family has been largely neglected. This has also been the case with emergency responders. Arguably, the social support that emergency responders receive from their families maintains the health and well-being of the emergency responders. There has been more literature focussing on family members of police and ambulance staff, but less is known about the experiences of the families of firefighters. This study, therefore, aims to explore the occupation-related consequences for families of firefighters to establish what could be done to preserve this important source of social support.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was needed to understand the perspective of relatives of firefighters. Grounded theory was used to analyse interviews of family members of firefighters.

Findings

Important concepts to families of firefighters include the management of emotional contagion from their firefighter, their sophisticated perceptions of physical and emotional risk, their ability to make things work around a satellite family member, detail of the sacrifices they make and the social support from other firefighters' families.

Research limitations/implications

The findings highlight the rich understanding and benefits offered when fire and rescue services and researchers consider the family perspective of the work–family interface within this context to develop a rich supportive dynamic between the organisation, the employee and their family.

Practical implications

Findings from this study are considered to inform the development of a positive resource ecology within fire and rescue services. Where work-family enrichment positively informs the interventions and practical approaches organisations can use to enhance the wellbeing of their employees, by acknowledging other life domains.

Originality/value

The contribution to theoretical perspectives on the work–family interface, as well as the informed understanding of occupational consequences of the firefighting occupation on relatives, offers a unique contribution to the literature.
Criminalization and capture strategies in the HIV/AIDS assemblage
Authors: Rinaldi Jen , Marques Olga
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study aims to ask how HIV/AIDS is arranged as a public threat in and through Canadian law, particularly in relation to transmission, and how strategies of capture extend the affective force of criminalization leading to poor health outcomes for persons living with HIV/AIDS.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper with a focus on applying affect theorist Jasbir Puar’s work on assemblage and debility. The authors use Puar’s work to frame the conditions that persons with HIV/AIDS experience in the Canadian criminal justice context as debilitating.

Findings

The authors found that while HIV transmission is not itself a criminal act in the Canadian criminal justice context, activities where transmission is prevalent or possible have been criminalized, particularly in relation to nondisclosure of health status, sex work and substance use. Further, the authors found that when the activities associated with HIV transmission are criminalized, strategies of capture extend the affective force of criminalization first in the inadequate provision of health-care and pharma-care services, second in state resistance to implement harm reduction measure and third in punitive population management strategies.

Originality/value

Persons living with HIV/AIDS have historically experienced stigmatization, especially intersecting with neoliberal, white supremacist and heteropatriarchal axes of power. This paper uses assemblage theory to shore up how these relations operate in ways that close off possibilities, by constituting the HIV/AIDS assemblage as a criminal – rather than a health phenomenon. This paper, thus, holds Canada to account for debilitating a historically disadvantaged and multiplying marginalized population.
Enablers of workforce agility in engineering educational institutions
Authors: Menon Shalini , Suresh M
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and encapsulate the enablers that can facilitate agility in faculty members of engineering institutions. The paper also aims to conduct a prelim qualitative validation of the enablers and analyze the interplay between them using the total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted the TISM approach to comprehend the interactions and transitivity between the enablers. Cross-impact multiplication matrix (MICMAC) analysis was applied to rank the enablers and classify them on the basis of the driving and dependence power into dependent, autonomous, independent and linkage enablers.

Findings

Extensive literature review and expert opinion helped identify 16 enablers that can promote workforce agility. The results indicate “management support” as the most crucial enabler. Rewards and recognition and employee empowerment were among the other enablers that have a high driving force. New capabilities, learning and innovation and the expanding role of faculty members were found to have high dependence power, which makes the enablers dependent on other enablers for activation.

Practical implications

The results of this study would assist the management of engineering colleges and universities to design, adopt and implement policies and practices that would facilitate agility in faculty members. Faculty members shoulder the responsibility of molding the future generation, and hence, it is important that they are competent enough to impart quality education. The policymakers should focus on policies and practices that leverage human resource potential and support an innovative climate that nurtures entrepreneurial activities in engineering institutions.

Originality/value

So far research on workforce agility has predominantly focused on the manufacturing sector. Despite the workforce (refers to faculty members here) being crucial in contributing to the progress of universities and colleges, very little work is done on how faculty members can be made agile. Application of the TISM method in identifying the variables that can facilitate faculty members' agility in engineering institutions in India is a new and original contribution to the literature on workforce agility.
Connecting sponsor brands through sports competitions: an identity approach to brand trust and brand loyalty
Authors: Pan Po-Lin , Phua Joe
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to examine the interplay between sports fanship and brand-related perceptions in the context of sports sponsorship. The effects of sport fans' self-enhancement strategies: Basking in reflected glory (BIRGing) and cutting off reflected failure (CORFing) were investigated in response to how sports fans connected themselves to a sponsor brand as well as whether their sponsor brand trust and loyalty were activated.

Design/methodology/approach

An experiment was designed in the first study to examine immediate effects of team performance and sports fandom on sports fans' connection to the sponsor brand, while an online survey was conducted in the second study to investigate the joint effects of team performance and game venue on sports fans' sponsor brand trust and loyalty.

Findings

The first study found that both team performance and sports fandom yielded significant effects on sports fans' connection to the sponsor brand. Specifically, sports fans with higher fandom reported the highest connection to the sponsor brand after the success of their favorite team, while others with lower fandom exhibited the lowest connection after the failure of their favorite team. The second study suggested that team performance and game venue yielded both main and joint effects on sponsor brand trust and loyalty. Moreover, fan identification mediated the joint effects of team performance and game venue on both sponsor brand trust and loyalty.

Originality/value

Replicating the concepts of BIRGing and CORFing into the context of sports sponsorship, this paper verified the vigorous roles of BIRGing and CORFing in influencing sports fans' perceptions of the sponsor brand. Moreover, both theoretical and practical insights into BIRGing and CORFing concepts applicable to examine the impact of the fan–team relationships on sport fans' perceptions of the sponsor brand through sports sponsorship would be generated for the advancement of sports business research.
Performance analysis of multi-scaling voltage level shifter for low-power applications
Authors: D. Vaithiyanathan , Kurmi Megha Singh , Mishra Alok Kumar , J. Britto Pari
Published: August 2020

Purpose

In complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) logic circuits, there is a direct square proportion of supply voltage on dynamic power. If the supply voltage is high, then more amount of energy will be consumed. Therefore, if a low voltage supply is used, then dynamic power will also be reduced. In a mixed signal circuit, there can be a situation when lower voltage circuitry has to drive large voltage circuitry. In such a case, P-type metal-oxide-semiconductor of high-voltage circuitry may not be switched off completely by applying a low voltage as input. Therefore, there is a need for level shifter where low-voltage and high-voltage circuits are connected. In this paper the multi-scaling voltage level shifter is presented which overcomes the contention problems and suitable for low-power applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The voltage level shifter circuit is essential for digital and analog circuits in the on-chip integrated circuits. The modified voltage level shifter and reported energy-efficient voltage level shifter have been optimally designed to be functional in all process voltage and temperature corners for VDDH = 5V, VDDL = 2V and the input frequency of 5 MHz. The modified voltage level shifter and reported shifter circuits are implemented using Cadence Virtuoso at 90 nm CMOS technology and the comparison is made based on speed and power consumed by the circuit.

Findings

The voltage level shifter circuit discussed in this paper removes the contention problem that is present in conventional voltage level shifter. Moreover, it has the capability for up and down conversion and reduced power and delay as compared to conventional voltage level shifter. The efficiency of the circuit is improved in two ways, first, the current of the pull-up device is reduced and second, the strength of the pull-down device is increased.

Originality/value

The modified level shifter is faster for switching low input voltage to high output voltage and also high input voltage to low output voltage. The average power consumption for the multi-scaling voltage level shifter is 259.445 µW. The power consumption is very less in this technique and it is best suitable for low-power applications.
Systemic capillary leak syndrome triggered by anti‐programmed death 1 checkpoint inhibitor in psoriasis
Authors: Umeda Yoshiyasu , Hayashi Hiroaki , Sugiyama Seiko , Aoyama Yumi
Published: August 2020

Programmed death 1 (PD‐1) inhibitors are increasingly used for the treatment of malignancies. Despite the clinical benefits, unpredictable and potentially fatal side‐effects may occur. We report a psoriatic patient who developed systemic capillary leak syndrome (SCLS) after starting a PD‐1 checkpoint inhibitor. In order to determine which factors could trigger the development of SCLS in a patient with stable psoriasis after starting anti‐PD‐1 therapy, serum cytokines were serially measured before and after the development of SCLS in this patient. We also retrospectively reviewed 28 previously reported patients presenting clinical exacerbations of pre‐existing psoriasis or the de novo induction of psoriasis after anti‐PD‐1 therapy. In 16 of the 28 patients (57.1%), the interval between last anti‐PD‐1 therapy and exacerbations of pre‐existing psoriasis or the de novo induction of psoriasis was less than 28 days. The timing of the onset of SCLS in this patient was coincident with the increase in lymphocyte counts and at 22 days after last anti‐PD‐1 therapy. In 75%, however, anti‐PD‐1 therapy was able to be restarted and was tolerated well. Increased levels of interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐6, interferon‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α, in addition to a persistent increase in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were detected at onset of SCLS. An increase in pro‐inflammatory cytokines and VEGF, when combined with a rapid and sequential recovery of neutrophils and lymphocytes after anti‐PD‐1 therapy, would predict the development of SCLS. Clinicians need to be aware that patients with psoriasis are at risk of a potentially fatal disease, SCLS, when anti‐PD‐1 therapy is started.
Review Paper: Methods of measurement for 4D seismic post‐stack time shifts
Authors: MacBeth Colin , Amini Hamed , Izadian Saeed
Published: August 2020

The estimation of time‐lapse time shifts between two, or several, repeated seismic surveys has become increasingly popular over the past eighteen years. These time shifts are a reliable and informative seismic attribute that can relate to reservoir production. Correction for these time shifts or the underlying velocity perturbations and/or subsurface displacement in an imaging sense also permits accurate evaluation of time‐lapse amplitudes by attempting to decouple the kinematic component. To date, there are approximately thirty methods for time‐shift estimation described in the literature. We can group these methods into three main families of mathematical development, together with several miscellaneous techniques. Here we detail the underlying bases for these methods, and the acknowledged benefits and weaknesses of each class of method highlighted. We illustrate this review with a number of time‐lapse seismic examples from producing fields. No method is necessarily superior to the others, as its selection depends on ease of implementation, noise characteristics of the field data, and whether the inherent assumptions suit the case in question. However, cross‐correlation stands out as the algorithm of choice based on the Pareto principle and waveform inversion the algorithm delivering best resolution. This is a companion study to the previous review of time‐shift magnitudes and a discussion of their rock physics basis.
Uncovering structural features that underlie coexistence in an invaded woody plant community with interaction networks at multiple life stages
Authors: Kinlock Nicole L.
Published: August 2020

Understanding the patterns of competitive and facilitative interactions within and among species in plant communities is a central goal of plant ecology, because these patterns determine species coexistence and community dynamics. Network theory provides tools that allow these patterns to be quantified, and can provide greater understanding of important community properties, including community stability, than can documenting pairwise species interactions.

I characterized the interactions of multiple, co‐occurring invasive and native species in an old field woody plant community to build plant interaction networks at two different life stages. With the goal of identifying structural features that may operate to maintain species coexistence, I characterized the architecture of these networks at multiple scales: the entire network, the substructures that compose the network and species' roles within substructures.

I found that species‐level pairwise interactions alone did not provide an accurate or sufficiently detailed picture of community structure. Rather, using a network approach, I identified substructures that have the potential to promote and hinder species coexistence in interactions among seedlings. Characterizing the nuances of network substructures was illuminating, as the size of the substructures and the pattern of interaction intensities within substructures influence the expected effects on species coexistence. Including interactions at multiple life stages was also important; the seedling species that benefited most from the nested structure of facilitative interactions with adults occupied subordinate roles in substructures with other seedlings. This role reversal at different life stages is a potential factor promoting coexistence in the community. Last, the network framework was useful for comparing species' roles between native and invasive members of the community, and the three invasive species in this system had different, life stage‐dependent strategies in interactions with co‐occurring plants.

Synthesis. The interplay of network architecture and substructures within plant communities and among plants at different life stages is important for understanding species coexistence. In the plant community characterized in this study, there were several features that may promote coexistence, and these features were not observable in interactions within a single life stage or when considering pairwise interactions independently.
Climate seasonality drives ant–plant–herbivore interactions via plant phenology in an extrafloral nectary‐bearing plant community
Authors: Calixto Eduardo Soares , Novaes Letícia Rodrigues , dos Santos Danilo Ferreira Borges , Lange Denise , Moreira Xoaquín , Del‐Claro Kleber
Published: August 2020

Interactions between ants and plants bearing extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) are among the most common mutualisms in Neotropical regions. Plants secrete extrafloral nectar, a carbohydrate‐rich food that attracts ants, which in return protect plants against herbivores. This ant–plant mutualism is subjected to temporal variation, in which abiotic factors can drive the establishment and frequency of such mutualistic interaction. However, studies investigating how abiotic factors (e.g. climate) directly and indirectly influence ant–plant–herbivore interactions are incipient.

In this study, we investigated direct and indirect (via plant phenology) effects of temperature and rainfall on ant–plant–herbivore interactions. To address these goals, each month we estimated six plant phenophases (newly flushed leaves, fully expanded leaves, deciduousness, floral buds, flowers and fruits), the activity of EFNs and abundance of ants and herbivores in 18 EFN‐bearing plant species growing in a markedly seasonal region (the Brazilian Cerrado) during a complete growing season.

Our results showed that (a) there were marked seasonal patterns in all plant phenophases, EFN activity and the abundance of ants and herbivores; (b) the peak of EFN activity and ant and herbivore abundance simultaneously occurred at the beginning of the rainy season, when new leaves flushed and (c) rainfall directly and indirectly (via changes in the production of new leaves) influenced EFN activity and this in turn provoked changes in ant abundance (but not on herbivores).

Synthesis. Overall, our results build towards a better understanding of how climate drives seasonal patterns in ant–plant–herbivore interactions, explicitly considering plant phenology over time.
From Church and Mosque to WhatsApp—Africa Check’s Holistic Approach to Countering ‘Fake News’
Authors: Cunliffe‐Jones Peter
Published: August 2020

False claims and misinformation spread in Africa not only on Facebook, in WhatsApp groups or on the dark web, but also in political meeting rooms, churches, mosques, and community gatherings. To reduce the harms caused by misinformation, Africa Check, the leading independent fact‐checking organisation on the continent, believes a four‐pronged, or holistic approach is needed: identifying and reducing the circulation of harmful misinformation; ensuring accurate information is more widely available; ensuring a more accurate understanding of topics it covers; and fostering fact‐checking skills among the public. To achieve this, it reaches out and engages with a wide range of on‐ and offline communities and networks. The UK could learn from this approach to tackle the ways that misinformation continues to spread offline today.
Do Caucasian American and South Asian Indian cultural groups differ in sensitivity to capsaicin? A study designed to control for chili pepper affinity
Authors: Berry Danica N. , Simons Christopher T.
Published: August 2020

Although different cultural groups are known to vary in their tolerance for hot chili peppers, the influence of factors such as cultural background and upbringing on sensitivity to compounds in spicy food is unclear. A study was designed to investigate sensitivity differences to capsaicin between Caucasian American and South Asian Indian cultural groups while controlling for general chili pepper affinity. The two cultural groups were selected to match on metrics related to chili pepper use and liking. Subjects were exposed to a capsaicin (100 ppm) stimulus on the tongue, cheek, hard palate, and lip and rated the intensity of irritation every 30 s, over a 10‐min period. Overall sensitivity to capsaicin in the oral cavity did not differ between the groups, nor were responses different between the groups depending on the oral cavity area stimulated. These data suggest a limited role of cultural attributes on capsaicin sensitivity between Caucasian Americans and South Asian Indians. The methods and findings here provide subject recruitment insight and guidance on effectively designing a sensory study to answer perceptual questions regarding specific subject groups.

Practical Application

This study design provides a model for researchers interested in utilizing sensory testing to answer questions about subject groups. Although the objective of this study regarded sensitivity differences across two cultural groups, alterations in the subject matching process used presently could be easily implemented to investigate sensitivity across other differing subject characteristics of interest.
Preparation of newly identified polysaccharide from Pleurotus eryngii and its anti‐inflammation activities potential
Authors: Ma Gaoxing , Kimatu Benard Muinde , Yang Wenjian , Pei Fei , Zhao Liyan , Du Hengjun , Su Anxiang , Hu Qiuhui , Xiao Hang
Published: August 2020

The anti‐inflammatory effects of two newly identified Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharides (WPEP, NPEP) were determined in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages in this study. Characterization analysis revealed that molecular weights of WPEP and NPEP were 167 and 274 kDa, and were mainly composed of glucose with β‐type glycosidic linkages. WPEP and NPEP could significantly inhibit LPS‐induced inflammatory responses by regulating the production of NO, Protaglandin E2 (PGE2), Interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). This was through the blocking of the activation of Mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway by inhibiting phosphorylation of p38, extracellular regulation of protein kinases 1/2, and stress‐activated protein kinase/jun aminoterminal kinase. Moreover, WPEP and NPEP inhibited NF‐κB signaling by reducing nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of p65. Overall, our results, for the first time identified two P. eryngii polysaccharides and demonstrated the related anti‐inflammatory effects, which indicated the favorable potential of P. eryngii polysaccharide as specific functional foods.

Practical Application

This study prepared and characterized newly identified Pleurotus eryngii water‐soluble polysaccharide fractions and elucidated the nutritional benefits, mainly the immune response related to anti‐inflammatory activities by utilizing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Collectively, results of this study suggested that the P. eryngii polysaccharide fractions could be considered as potential candidates for exploration in the development of new immunomodulatory agent or functional supplementary foods.
Heat‐induced formation of N,N‐dimethylpiperidinium (mepiquat) in Arabica and Robusta coffee
Authors: Li Xuenan , Zhang Xu , Tan Lulu , Yan Haiyang , Yuan Yuan
Published: August 2020

N,N‐dimethylpiperidinium (mepiquat) is a new process‐induced compound formed from natural constituents during the cooking process. Mepiquat was first found in coffee and cereal products, but its formation mechanism in coffee is still unclear. In the current study, Arabica and Robusta coffee beans were roasted at different temperatures (215, 220, and 230 °C) to study the effect of roasting process on mepiquat formation. The highest mepiquat content, 1,020 µg/kg, was found in dark roast (230 °C) Indonesia Wahana, while 430 µg/kg of mepiquat was detected in medium roast (220 °C) Vietnam Robusta. At the same roasting temperature, higher level of mepiquat was observed in Arabica than in Robusta. In both species, substances related to mepiquat formation, including betaine, choline, trigonelline, lysine, carnitine, pipecolic acid (PipAc), pipecolic acid betaine (PipBet), were also detected. The lysine‐based Maillard reaction and decarboxylation in Arabica and Robusta promoted mepiquat formation through the degradation of choline and trigonelline, and the formation of intermediate products. Results from both the model system and selected commercial beans showed that choline and trigonelline had a significant correlation (P < 0.01) with mepiquat formation in Arabica.

Practical Application

Mepiquat is considered as a new process‐induced compound resulting from typical roasting conditions, but its formation mechanism in coffee is still unclear. This work demonstrates the formation mechanism of mepiquat by many precursor substances contained in Arabica and Robusta. It is very important to figure out how mepiquat is ‘‘naturally” present in daily diets, especially in those processed at high temperatures.
Amphibian assemblages and diversity patterns in two forest ecosystems of South‐Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Rahman Md Mizanur , Nneji Lotanna M. , Adeniyi Adeola C. , Chen Jinmin , Eniang Edem A. , Oladipo Segun O. , Olatunde Omotoso , Onadeko Abiodun B. , Kilunda Felista Kasyoka , Ayoola Adeola O , Adedeji Babatunde E. , Nneji Ifeanyi C. , Akwaowo Nelson U. , Ugwumba Adiaha A. A. , Jin Jie‐Qiong , Yin Tingting , Peng Min‐Sheng , Olory Caroline , Eninekit Nsikan , Che Jing
Published: August 2020

Despite recent anthropogenic interference, south‐eastern (SE) Nigeria historically hosts a myriad of pristine forest habitats that could sustain diverse amphibian assemblages. Currently, land conversion of primary forests through human activities has led to modified habitats, such as agricultural fields and secondary forest. This calls for biodiversity documentation and initiation of conservation plans. However, the dearth of herpetological studies has limited knowledge of the amphibian species richness and distribution patterns in some forest ecosystems of SE Nigeria. Thus, we surveyed two less‐explored intact forests in SE Nigeria—Afi Forest Reserve (AFR) and Ikpan forest ecosystem (IFE)—to document the patterns of amphibian diversity and distribution. Specimens were searched for opportunistically using visual and acoustic survey methods. Literature searches were conducted to document additional species that were not encountered. Using the observational records and arrays of diversity indices, the patterns of species richness and abundance across habitat types were evaluated. The result of our study revealed the presence of 30 and 31 amphibian species from AFR and IFE, respectively. Our field collections included two unidentified species (Sclerophrys sp. and Hyperolius sp.) from AFR and one (Phrynobatrachus sp.) from IFE. Analyses revealed high species diversity and richness in forest and swamps compared with the agricultural field and savannah. Given the increased human activities and the antecedent threats to forest ecosystems of SE Nigeria, we offer recommendations for the initiation of conservation plans for these two surveyed localities.
Early IL‐2 treatment of mice with Pseudomonas aeruginosa pneumonia induced PMN‐dominating response and reduced lung pathology
Authors: Calum Henrik Pierre , Moser Claus , Jensen Peter Ostrup , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Givskov Michael , Høiby Niels
Published: August 2020

IL‐2 is a pro‐inflammatory and a Th1 inducing cytokine, which is important for activation of the cell‐mediated immunity. IL‐2 in serum and sputum has been observed to be reduced in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. The present IL‐2 treatment study of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) lung infected mice was performed in order to evaluate the effect of IL‐2 supplement. One hundred‐and‐twenty female BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: 1) IL‐2 treatment/infection (TIG), 2) non‐treatment/infection (NTIG), and 3) IL‐2 treatment/non‐infection (TNIG). The mice were challenged intra‐tracheally with PA (PAO579) embedded in seaweed alginate to resemble the biofilm mode of growth. At day 0 and 1, the treatment groups received IL‐2 s.c. Mice were killed on day 1 or 2, and cytokine production, lung pathology, and quantitative lung bacteriology were estimated. IL‐2 treatment of infected mice reduced the number of mice with signs of macroscopic lung pathology at day 2 (p < 0.05). The reduced macroscopic pathology was paralleled by a reduced IL‐1β and TNF‐α. In contrast, an increased PMN response at day 2 was observed in the IL‐2 treated mice (p < 0.01). This was preceded by a significantly higher degree of microscopic inflammation at day 1 (p < 0.02). The IL‐12 levels decreased in both groups of infected mice at day 2 (p < 0.01), however, significantly more in the IL‐2 treated mice (p < 0.02). In accordance, but surprisingly, IFN‐γ was significantly reduced in the IL‐2 treated PA infected group at day 2 (p < 0.05). The present results indicate that early IL‐2 treatment prolongs the PMN response but also reduces pro‐inflammatory IL‐1β and TNF‐α and macroscopic signs of pathology.
Next‐generation biological control: the need for integrating genetics and genomics
Authors: Leung Kelley , Ras Erica , Ferguson Kim B. , Ariëns Simone , Babendreier Dirk , Bijma Piter , Bourtzis Kostas , Brodeur Jacques , Bruins Margreet A. , Centurión Alejandra , Chattington Sophie R. , Chinchilla‐Ramírez Milena , Dicke Marcel , Fatouros Nina E. , González‐Cabrera Joel , Groot Thomas V. M. , Haye Tim , Knapp Markus , Koskinioti Panagiota , Le Hesran Sophie , Lyrakis Manolis , Paspati Angeliki , Pérez‐Hedo Meritxell , Plouvier Wouter N. , Schlötterer Christian , Stahl Judith M. , Thiel Andra , Urbaneja Alberto , van de Zande Louis , Verhulst Eveline C. , Vet Louise E. M. , Visser Sander , Werren John H. , Xia Shuwen , Zwaan Bas J. , Magalhães Sara , Beukeboom Leo W. , Pannebakker Bart A.
Published: August 2020

Biological control is widely successful at controlling pests, but effective biocontrol agents are now more difficult to import from countries of origin due to more restrictive international trade laws (the Nagoya Protocol). Coupled with increasing demand, the efficacy of existing and new biocontrol agents needs to be improved with genetic and genomic approaches. Although they have been underutilised in the past, application of genetic and genomic techniques is becoming more feasible from both technological and economic perspectives. We review current methods and provide a framework for using them. First, it is necessary to identify which biocontrol trait to select and in what direction. Next, the genes or markers linked to these traits need be determined, including how to implement this information into a selective breeding program. Choosing a trait can be assisted by modelling to account for the proper agro‐ecological context, and by knowing which traits have sufficiently high heritability values. We provide guidelines for designing genomic strategies in biocontrol programs, which depend on the organism, budget, and desired objective. Genomic approaches start with genome sequencing and assembly. We provide a guide for deciding the most successful sequencing strategy for biocontrol agents. Gene discovery involves quantitative trait loci analyses, transcriptomic and proteomic studies, and gene editing. Improving biocontrol practices includes marker‐assisted selection, genomic selection and microbiome manipulation of biocontrol agents, and monitoring for genetic variation during rearing and post‐release. We conclude by identifying the most promising applications of genetic and genomic methods to improve biological control efficacy.
Public servants and politics: Developing political acuity in local government
Authors: Siegel David
Published: August 2020

A good relationship between council and senior staff is essential for the successful operation of the municipality. However, the academic treatment of the council‐staff relationship has lagged real‐world expectations. The purpose of this article is to extend the literature on council‐staff relations by identifying the competencies associated with the concept of political acuity needed to maintain this good relationship.
Multimedia based education on bowel preparation improves adenoma detection rate: Systematic review & meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Chandan Saurabh , Arora Sumant , Mohan Babu P. , Khan Shahab R. , Chandan Ojasvini C. , Kassab Lena L. , Murali Arvind R.
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cause of cancer worldwide. Studies have shown a strong association between screening colonoscopy and a reduced risk of death from colorectal cancers. The incidence of poor bowel preparation has been reported in up to 25% cases. We conducted a systematic review and comprehensive meta‐analysis to evaluate the effect of patient education using multimedia platforms on adenoma detection rate and adequacy of bowel preparation.

Methods

Multiple databases were searched through May 2020 for studies that reported the efficacy of multimedia education (smartphone app and online audio‐visual aids) in improving quality of bowel preparation and its effect on adenoma detection rate (ADR). Meta‐analysis was performed to determine whether multimedia based patient education (MM) helps improve ADR and bowel preparation quality as compared to controls (CT).

Results

We included 13 randomized controlled trials with a total of 3754 patients. Eight studies reported outcomes on ADR and 12 reported on adequacy of bowel preparation. Overall ADR was higher in patients receiving multimedia based education as compared to CT (risk ratio (RR) 1.25, confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.56, P = 0.04). A higher proportion of patients receiving multimedia based education achieved adequate bowel preparation (RR 1.2, CI 1.1–1.3, P = 0.001). In patients with mean age over 50 years, ADR was better in MM cohort as compared to controls (RR 1.3, CI 1.1–1.6, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Pre‐colonoscopy patient education using multimedia based platforms seems to improve ADR and the adequacy of bowel preparation.
Oral 3‐hydroxybutyrate ingestion decreases endogenous glucose production, lipolysis, and hormone‐sensitive lipase phosphorylation in adipose tissue in men: a human randomized, controlled, crossover trial
Authors: Svart M. , Rittig N. , Pedersen S.B. , Jessen N. , Møller N.
Published: August 2020

Aims

To test whether oral administration of D/L‐3‐hydroxybutyrate as a sodium salt inhibits lipolysis and intracellular lipid signalling, in particular, hormone‐sensitive lipase, and whether D/L‐3‐hydroxybutyrate alters endogenous glucose production.

Methods

We studied six young men in a randomized, controlled, crossover study after ingestion of Na‐D/L‐3‐hydroxybutyrate (hyperketotic condition) or saline (placebo control). We quantified lipolysis and endogenous glucose production using [9,10‐3H]‐palmitate and [3‐3H]glucose tracers, and adipose tissue biopsies were collected to investigate key lipolytic enzymes.

Results

After ingestion, D/L‐3‐hydroxybutyrate increased by more than 2.5 mmol/l, free fatty acid concentrations decreased by >70%, and palmitate rate of appearance was halved. Protein kinase A phosphorylation of perilipin was reduced and hormone‐sensitive lipase 660 phosphorylation in adipose tissue biopsies was 70–80% decreased in the hyperketotic condition and unchanged in the control. Compared to the control, endogenous glucose production was reduced by close to 20% (P<0.05) after 3‐hydroxybutyrate ingestion.

Conclusion

We conclude that oral D/L‐Na‐3‐hydroxybutyrate increases D/L‐3‐hydroxybutyrate concentrations within half an hour, decreases free fatty acid concentrations, lowers lipolysis and endogenous glucose production, and dephosphorylates hormone‐sensitive lipase. Collectively these phenomena may be viewed as an orchestrated feedback loop, controlling endogenous glucose production, lipolysis and ketogenesis. Such effects would be beneficial in insulin‐resistant states.

(www.clinicaltrials.gov ID number: NCT02917252)
Orofacial trauma and mouthguard use in Brazilian rugby union players
Authors: Padilha Ana Clara Loch , Constante Helena Mendes , Fronza Helena Pickler , Coto Neide Pena
Published: August 2020

Background/Aim

Rugby union represents a high‐risk sport for orofacial trauma due to its impact collisions and repetitive tackles. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of orofacial trauma according to mouthguard use among a sample of Brazilian rugby union players.

Methods

An online questionnaire was sent to the 16 best rugby union clubs in Brazil. The questionnaire contained questions about the training history of each athlete, prevalence of orofacial trauma, and details about mouthguard use. Only participants who reported using a mouthguard were selected for this analysis.

Results

A total of 244 individuals were included. The prevalence of orofacial trauma was 34.4%, and 61.9% of them did not wear a mouthguard at the time of the incident. The only type of mouthguard reported was the pre‐fabricated (“boil and bite” and “ready‐to‐wear”) type. A stronger association was observed between the reason for using a mouthguard and the outcome, whereas a lower proportion of trauma was observed among individuals who claimed mandatory mouthguard use at the gym/sport (20.0%). Time since the respondent started playing rugby union and who instructed them to use a mouthguard were not associated with orofacial trauma.

Conclusion

Prevalence of orofacial trauma was high among this sample of rugby union players from Brazil, even with the use of pre‐fabricated mouthguards. This study encourages further investigation on the use of custom‐made mouthguards in rugby union and the role of coach/physical educators to reduce the prevalence of orofacial trauma.
The outward shift of clarithromycin binding to the ribosome in mutantHelicobacter pyloristrains
Authors: Salehi Najmeh , Attaran Bahareh , Zare‐Mirakabad Fatemeh , Ghadiri Bahareh , Esmaeili Maryam , Shakaram Mohadeseh , Tashakoripour Mohammad , Eshagh Hosseini Mahmoud , Mohammadi Marjan
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Disruption of protein synthesis, by drug‐mediated restriction of the ribosomal nascent peptide exit tunnel (NPET), may inhibit bacterial growth. Here, we have studied the secondary and tertiary structures of domain V of the 23S rRNA in the wild‐type and mutant (resistant)H. pyloristrains and their mechanisms of interaction with clarithromycin (CLA).

Methods

H pyloristrains, isolated from cultured gastric biopsies, underwent CLA susceptibility testing by E test, followed by PCR amplification and sequencing of domain V of 23S rRNA. The homology model of this domain inH pylori, in complex with L4 and L22 accessory proteins, was determined based on theE. coliribosome 3D structure. The interactions between CLA and 23S rRNA complex were determined by molecular docking studies.

Results

Of the 70H pyloristrains, isolated from 200 dyspeptic patients, 11 (16%) were CLA‐resistant. DNA sequencing identified categories with no (A), A2142G (B), and A2143G (C) mutations. Docking studies of our homology model of 23S rRNA complex with CLA showed deviated positions for categories B and C, in reference to category A, with 12.19 Å and 7.92 Å RMSD values, respectively. In both mutant categories, CLA lost its interactions at positions 2142 and 2587 and gained two new bonds with the L4 accessory protein.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that, in mutantH pyloristrains, once the nucleotides at positions 2142 and 2587 are detached from the drug, CLA interacts with and is peeled back by the L4 accessory protein, removing the drug‐imposed spatial restriction of the NPET.
Non‐surgical peri‐implantitis treatment using a pocket irrigator device; clinical, microbiological, radiographical and patient‐centred outcomes—A pilot study
Authors: Hentenaar Diederik F. M. , De Waal Yvonne C. M. , Van Winkelhoff Arie Jan , Meijer Henny J. A. , Raghoebar Gerry M.
Published: August 2020

Aim

The aim of this prospective cohort study was to assess the effect of a pocket irrigator/evacuator device (IED) in the non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis.

Material and Methods

In total 24 patients having 38 implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis were included in this study. Peri‐implant pockets were irrigated six times in three consecutive weeks. The primary outcome was bleeding on probing (BoP). Secondary outcome parameters included plaque index (Pl), suppuration on probing (SoP), probing pocket depth (PPD), marginal bone loss (MBL), presence and numbers of periodontal pathogens. Parameters were assessed at baseline and 3 months after the last treatment. Treatment pain perception was scored using the visual analog scale (VAS) after the first and last treatment.

Results

At 3 months, IED treatment revealed significant reduction of peri‐implant BoP (71% [±20] vs 57% [±28] [P = .014]) and peri‐implant plaque scores (10 [±14] to 5 [±9] [P = .039] [T0 vs T3 respectively]). Significant reduction in mean peri‐implant PPD from 4.92 mm (SD ± 1.28) to 4.66 mm (SD ± 1.35) (P = .041) was observed. In addition, a reduction in VAS pain score between the first and the last (6th) treatment was found (P = .039). No reduction in SoP (P = .088) was found. No changes in mean periodontal full mouth plaque, BOP, SOP and PPD levels, MBL and microbiological outcomes were found.

Conclusion

Beneficial clinical effects in terms of BoP, PPD and PI were found at 3 months after IED treatment. However, the IED does not seem to effectively treat peri‐implantitis in terms of disease resolution.
Combination therapy with melatonin, stem cells and extracellular vesicles is effective in limiting renal ischemia–reperfusion injury in a rat model
Authors: Zahran Rasha , Ghozy Asmaa , Elkholy Sanad S , El‐Taweel Fathy , El‐Magd Mohammed Abu
Published: August 2020

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic value of melatonin, mesenchymal stem cells and their extracellular vesicles, exosomes, on renal ischemia–reperfusion.

Methods

Female albino rats (n = 64) were divided into eight groups (n = 8 per group): control, sham (only laparotomy), renal ischemia–reperfusion (renal ischemia–reperfusion + phosphate‐buffered saline), melatonin (renal ischemia–reperfusion + melatonin), mesenchymal stem cells (renal ischemia–reperfusion + mesenchymal stem cells), exosomes (renal ischemia–reperfusion + exosomes), melatonin + mesenchymal stem cells (renal ischemia–reperfusion + melatonin + mesenchymal stem cells) and melatonin + exosomes (renal ischemia–reperfusion + melatonin + exosomes). After the establishment of the renal ischemia–reperfusion model, rats in each group were bilaterally injected once with either mesenchymal stem cells or exosomes in both renal arteries during reperfusion.

Results

Notable improvement of renal ischemia–reperfusion was obtained after different treatments, as evidenced by a lower histopathological score of kidney injury; decreased serum levels of urea, creatinine and retinol‐binding protein; reduced lipid peroxidation marker malondialdehyde; increased superoxide dismutase and catalase activities; reduced apoptosis (lower DNA damage and B‐cell lymphoma 2‐associated X protein, and higher B‐cell lymphoma 2 genes/proteins); and inhibition of kidney inflammatory and damage markers (tumor necrosis alpha, interleukin‐1β, nuclear factor kappa B, kidney injury molecule‐1, IL‐18, matrix metalloproteinase 9, neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin). The improvement order was (highest to lowest): melatonin + exosomes, melatonin + mesenchymal stem cells, exosomes, mesenchymal stem cells and melatonin group.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a potential therapeutic effect of combined therapy with melatonin, mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes to minimize renal ischemia–reperfusion injury in rats.
Transcriptomic, proteomic, and biochemical analyses reveal a novel neuritogenesis mechanism of Naja naja venom α‐elapitoxin post binding to TrkA receptor of rat pheochromocytoma cells
Authors: Islam Taufikul , Majumder Munmi , Kalita Bhargab , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Mukhopadhyay Rupak , Mukherjee Ashis K.
Published: August 2020

This is the first report showing unique neuritogenesis potency of Indian Cobra N. naja venom long‐chain α‐neurotoxin (Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1) exhibiting no sequence similarity to conventional nerve growth factor, by high‐affinity binding to its tyrosine kinase A (TrkA) receptor of rat pheochromocytoma (PC‐12) cells without requiring low‐affinity receptor p75NTR. The binding residues between Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1 and mammalian TrkA receptor are predicted by in silico analysis. This binding results in a time‐dependent internalization of TrkA receptor into the cytoplasm of PC‐12 cells. The transcriptomic analysis has demonstrated the differential expression of 445 genes; 38 and 32 genes are up‐regulated and down‐regulated, respectively in the PC‐12 cells post‐treatment with Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1. Global proteomic analysis in concurrence with transcriptomic data has also demonstrated that in addition to expression of a large number of common intracellular proteins in the control and Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1‐treated PC‐12 cells, the latter cells also showed the expression of uniquely up‐regulated and down‐regulated intracellular proteins involved in diverse cellular functions. Altogether, the data from transcriptomics, proteomics, and inhibition of downstream signaling pathways by specific inhibitors, and the immunoblot analysis of major regulators of signaling pathways of neuritogenesis unambiguously demonstrate that, similar to mouse 2.5S‐nerve growth factor, the activation of mitogen activated protein kinase/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase is the major signaling pathway for neuritogenesis by Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1. Nonetheless, fibroblast growth factor signaling and heterotrimeric G‐protein signaling pathways were found to be uniquely expressed in Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1‐treated PC‐12 cells and not in mouse 2.5S‐nerve growth factor ‐treated cells. The TrkA binding region of Nn‐α‐elapitoxin‐1 may be developed as a peptide‐based drug prototype for the treatment of major central neurodegenerative diseases.

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