bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High prevalence of neurocognitive disorders observed among adult people living with HIV/AIDS in Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Animut Megbaru Debalkie , Sorrie Muluken Bekele , Workneh Yinager , Teshale Manaye yihune
Published: September 2018

Background

Comprehensive care given to people living with HIV/AIDS is improving from time to time; however, their concurrent cognitive illness is still ignored, under screened and treated particularly in developing countries. And this problem is also striking in Ethiopia. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders and associated factors among adult people living with HIV/AIDS.

Methods

An institution based cross sectional study was conducted in Gamo Gofa zone public Hospitals from April to May, 2017. The systematic random sampling technique was used to select a total of 697 people living with HIV/AIDS. Data was collected using structured interviewer administered questionnaire and International HIV Dementia Scale was used to screen HIV-associated neurocognitive deficits. Data was entered using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify associated factors. A P value 0.05 with 95% confidence level was used to declare statistical significance.

Result

A total of 684 study participants were included with a 98 % response rate. From the total participants, 56% were females while 44% were males. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 38.8±8.8years.

The prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder was 67.1% (95%CI; 63.6, 70.5). The multivariable logistic analysis indicated that body mass index 16 kg/m2 (AOR 4.149 (1.512-11.387)), being married (AOR 0.9 (0.604-0.623), unemployment (AOR 5.930 (3.013-11.670) and being in WHO clinical stage T3 category (AOR 2.870 (1.098-7.500) were the key predictors of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders among people living with HIV/AIDS.

Conclusion

In this study the prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder is higher than the earlier reports in Ethiopia and Africa. The associated factors also vary from that of earlier studies. This indicates the need for formulating preventive mental health programs and policies for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Identification of a Distinct Metabolomic Subtype of Sporadic ALS Patients
Authors: Chen Qiuying , Sandhu Davinder , Konrad Csaba , Roychoudhury Dipa , Schwartz Benjamin I. , Cheng Roger R. , Bredvik Kirsten , Kawamata Hibiki , Calder Elizabeth L. , Studer Lorenz , Fischer Steven. M. , Manfredi Giovanni , Gross Steven. S.
Published: September 2018

Sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (sALS) is a progressive motor neuron disease resulting in paralysis and death. Genes responsible for familial ALS have been identified, however the molecular basis for sALS is unknown. To discover metabotypic biomarkers that inform on disease etiology, untargeted metabolite profiling was performed on 77 patient-derived dermal fibroblast lines and 45 age/sex-matched controls. Surprisingly, 25% of sALS lines showed upregulated methionine-derived homocysteine, channeled to cysteine and glutathione (GSH). Stable isotope tracing of [U-13C]-glucose showed activation of the trans-sulfuration pathway, associated with accelerated glucose flux into the TCA cycle, glutamate, GSH, alanine, aspartate, acylcarnitines and nucleotide phosphates. A four-molecule support vector machine model distinguished the sALS subtype from controls with 97.5% accuracy. Plasma metabolite profiling identified increased taurine as a hallmark metabolite for this sALS subset, suggesting systemic perturbation of cysteine metabolism. Furthermore, integrated multiomics (mRNAs/microRNAs/metabolites) identified the super-trans-sulfuration pathway as a top hit for the sALS subtype. We conclude that sALS can be stratified into distinct metabotypes, providing for future development of personalized therapies that offer new hope to sufferers.
Stem cell mitotic drive ensures asymmetric epigenetic inheritance
Authors: Ranjan Rajesh , Snedeker Jonathan , Chen Xin
Published: September 2018

Through the process of symmetric cell division, one mother cell gives rise to two identical daughter cells. Many stem cells utilize asymmetric cell division (ACD) to produce a self-renewed stem cell and a differentiating daughter cell. Since both daughter cells inherit the identical genetic information during ACD, a crucial question concerns how non-genic factors could be inherited differentially to establish distinct cell fates. It has been hypothesized that epigenetic differences at sister centromeres could contribute to biased sister chromatid attachment and segregation. However, directin vivoevidence has never been shown. Here, we report that a stem cell-specific ‘mitotic drive’ ensures biased sister chromatid attachment and segregation. We have found during stem cell ACD, sister centromeres become asymmetrically enriched with proteins involved in centromere specification and kinetochore function. Furthermore, we show that that temporally asymmetric microtubule activities direct polarized nuclear envelope breakdown, allowing for the preferential recognition and attachment of microtubules to asymmetric sister kinetochores and sister centromeres. This communication occurs in a spatiotemporally regulated manner. Abolishment of either the establishment of asymmetric sister centromeres or the asymmetric microtubule emanation results in randomized sister chromatid segregation, which leads to stem cell loss. Our results demonstrate that thecis-asymmetry at sister centromeres tightly coordinates with thetrans-asymmetry from the mitotic machinery to allow for differential attachment and segregation of genetically identical yet epigenetically distinct sister chromatids. Together, these results provide the first directin vivomechanisms for partitioning epigenetically distinct sister chromatids in asymmetrically dividing stem cells, which opens a new direction to study how this mechanism could be used in other developmental contexts to achieve distinct cell fates through mitosis.

One Sentence Summary

DuringDrosophilamale germline stem cell asymmetric division, sister centromeres communicate with spindle microtubules for differential attachment and segregation of sister chromatids.
Drug-induced increase in lysobisphosphatidic acid reduces the cholesterol overload in Niemann-Pick type C cells and mice
Authors: Moreau Dimitri , Vacca Fabrizio , Vossio Stefania , Scott Cameron , Colaco Alexandria , Montoya Jonathan Paz , Ferguson Charles , Damme Markus , Moniatte Marc , Parton Robert G. , Platt Frances M. , Gruenberg Jean
Published: September 2018

Most cells acquire cholesterol by endocytosis of circulating LDLs. After cholesteryl ester de-esterification in endosomes, free cholesterol is redistributed to intracellular membranes via unclear mechanisms. Our previous work suggested that the unconventional phospholipid lysobisphosphatidic acid (LBPA) may play a role in modulating the cholesterol flux through endosomes. In this study, we used the Prestwick library of FDA-approved compounds in a high content, image-based screen of the endosomal lipids, lysobisphosphatidic acid and LDL-derived cholesterol. We report that thioperamide maleate, an inverse agonist of the histamine H3 receptor HRH3, increases highly selectively the levels of lysobisphosphatidic acid, without affecting any endosomal protein or function that we tested. Our data also show that thioperamide significantly reduces the endosome cholesterol overload in fibroblasts from patients with the cholesterol storage disorder Niemann-Pick type C (NPC), as well as in liver ofNpc1−/−mice. We conclude that LBPA controls endosomal cholesterol mobilization and export to cellular destinations, perhaps by fluidifying or buffering cholesterol in endosomal membranes, and that thioperamide has repurposing potential for the treatment of NPC.
Reciprocal space mapping and strain scanning using X-ray diffraction microscopy
Authors: Poulsen H. F. , Cook P. K. , Leemreize H. , Pedersen A. F. , Yildirim C. , Kutsal M. , Jakobsen A. C. , Trujillo J. X. , Ormstrup J. , Detlefs C.
Published: September 2018

Dark-field X-ray microscopy is a new full-field imaging technique for nondestructively mapping the structure of deeply embedded crystalline elements in three dimensions. Placing an objective in the diffracted beam generates a magnified projection image of a local volume. By placing a detector in the back focal plane, high-resolution reciprocal space maps are generated for the local volume. Geometrical optics is used to provide analytical expressions for the resolution and range of the reciprocal space maps and the associated field of view in the sample plane. To understand the effects of coherence a comparison is made with wavefront simulations using the fractional Fourier transform. Reciprocal space mapping is demonstrated experimentally at an X-ray energy of 15.6 keV. The resolution function exhibits suppressed streaks and an FWHM resolution in all directions of ΔQ/Q = 4 × 10−5 or better. It is demonstrated by simulations that scanning a square aperture in the back focal plane enables strain mapping with no loss in resolution to be combined with a spatial resolution of 100 nm.
The airbus A320 family fan cowl door safety modification: a human factors scenario analysis
Authors: Kourousis Kyriakos I. , Chatzi Anna V. , Giannopoulos Ioannis K.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The Airbus A320 family engine fan cowl doors (FCDs) safety issue is known to the industry for almost 18 years; however, it has not been addressed adequately by the aircraft manufacturer and the various operators and regulating authorities. The purpose of this paper is to examine in a systematic way the possible operational and safety implications of a new modification on the engine FCDs.

Design/methodology/approach

An array of error-prone scenarios is presented and analysed under the prism of human factors in a non-exhaustive qualitative scenario analysis.

Findings

All examined scenarios are considered more or less probable. A number of accident prevention solutions are proposed for each of the scenario examined, in view of the acceptance and implementation of this modification by operators.

Research limitations/implications

As these scenarios are neither exhaustive nor have been tested/validated in actual aircraft maintenance practice, the further analysis is necessary. A substantial follow-up survey should take place, which should include a wider array of scenarios. This would allow obtaining the necessary data for a quantitative (statistical) analysis.

Practical implications

This case study identifies issues in relation to this modification, introduced by Airbus and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which may prove problematic from the point of view of safety effectiveness and disruption of operations.

Originality/value

This case study examines a long-standing aviation safety issue and the implications of a solution proposed by the aircraft manufacturer and adopted by EASA. This can be useful in increasing the awareness around these issues and highlight the importance of a human-centric and scenario-based design of engineering modifications towards minimising error in aircraft technical operations.
Nature of construction project cultures in the public sector: case studies in Sri Lanka
Authors: Samaraweera Aparna , Senaratne Sepani , Sandanayake Y.G.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Cultural differences cause conflicts amongst construction project participants, deterring the success of projects. Understanding such different cultural manifestations could help the removal of the misunderstandings amongst sub-cultural groups and removal of formal irrationalities deterring the progress of construction projects. The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of project cultures in the public sector construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory case study was selected as the research strategy to achieve the research aim. Three public sector building construction projects were used as case studies. Nine semi-structured interviews and observation of two progress review meetings per case were used for data collection.

Findings

As per the research findings, contractors believed that construction project culture emerged and transferred through continuous interactions and socialisations with time. Consultants believed that culture was emerged focusing on clearly defined project objectives. In addition, all members assumed that project members at high authority levels were contributing more for the emergence and transfer of cultural aspects. Levels of culture and power existed within the public sector project culture as clients with the highest power, consultants the next and contractors with the least power. Public sector project culture was not leader centred. Shared behavioural norms were not much popular in project culture. Highly differentiated behavioural norms, demonstrating clear professional sub-cultures for the client, contractor and consultant, were available.

Originality/value

The research findings are helpful to construction project managers to enhance the level of motivation, productivity, commitment, continuous interactions and socialisations of project participants and to avoid any negative outcomes in behaviours.
Figuring the pecking order
Authors: Bettany Shona M. , Kerrane Ben
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Using the family activity of hobby stock-keeping (“petstock”) as a context, this paper aims to extend singularization theory to model the negotiations, agencies and resistances of children, parents and petstock, as they work through how animals become food within the boundaries of the family home. In doing so, the authors present an articulation of this process, deciphering the cultural biographies of petstock and leading to an understanding of the emergent array of child animal food-product preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from petstock-keeping parents through a mixture of ethnographic, in-depth interviewing and netnographic engagements in this qualitative, interpretive study; with parents offering experiential insights into animal meat and food-product socialization behaviours played out within the family environments.

Findings

The findings discuss the range of parental behaviours, motivations and activities vis-à-vis petstock, and their children’s responses, ranging from transgression to full compliance, in terms of eating home-raised animal food-products. The discussion illustrates that in the context of petstock, a precocious child food preference agency towards animal meat and food products is reported to emerge.

Research limitations/implications

This research has empirical and theoretical implications for the understanding of the development of child food preference agency vis-à-vis animal food products in the context of family petstock keeping.

Practical implications

The research has the potential to inform policy makers around child education and food in regard to how child food preferences emerge and can inform marketers developing food-based communications aimed at children and parents.

Originality/value

Two original contributions are presented: an analysis of the under-researched area of how children’s food preferences towards eating animal food products develop, taking a positive child food-choice agency perspective, and a novel extension of singularization theory, theorizing the radical transformation, from animal to food, encountered by children in the petstock context.
Women’s financial planning for retirement
Authors: Kumar Satish , Tomar Sweta , Verma Deepak
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the status of the research on women’s financial planning for retirement. This paper provides a brief review of the work carried out so far along with a conceptual framework of factors influencing women’s retirement financial planning. In addition, it lists significant gaps and recommends avenues for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The review is based on 151 articles appearing in various peer-reviewed journals published during 1980–2017. The study establishes its prominence by studying the publication activities based on the year of publication and region, citation analysis, research designs, data analysis techniques and findings from the selected articles.

Findings

Most of the literature on women’s financial planning for retirement indicates a lack of financial management amongst women and their susceptibility to poverty in postretirement years. The majority of the research works in this field have taken place in developed economies. Empirical research with regression-based models for analysis is the most popular research design. This review also highlights the significant determinants of women’s retirement financial planning as identified through literature. These include socio-demographic factors, psychological constructs, financial literacy, economic and circumstantial forces.

Originality/value

This paper covers the research works done in this area in the past 38 years. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to provide a systematic and comprehensive compilation of the knowledge in this subject. It further synthesizes the findings of various studies on factors influencing women’s retirement financial planning and gives recommendations for future studies.
Navigating institutional challenges in Mexico
Authors: Estrada-Robles Mariana , Williams Nick , Vorley Tim
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Focusing on the family as the central unit of analysis, the purpose of this paper is to examine how entrepreneurial families, with more than one owner/entrepreneur, utilise social capital in a challenging institutional environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical focus of this paper is the institutional context of Mexico and how it impacts on entrepreneurial families and their access to social capital. The authors employ an in-depth qualitative approach to understand entrepreneurs’ perspective as being part of an entrepreneurial family. A total of 36 semi-structured interviews were conducted with multiple respondents of each entrepreneurial family.

Findings

This study shows that social capital allows members in the entrepreneurial family to access a wider pool of resources to utilise to benefit their ventures, while also helping them to operate in a challenging institutional environment. It also illustrates how social capital is used to overcome institutional asymmetries.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to research by examining the links between institutions and entrepreneurial families through a focus on social capital. It provides a nuanced understanding of how the entrepreneurial family serves as an intermediary through which social capital gives family members access to resources and capabilities to enable their pursuit of entrepreneurial endeavours and overcome the institutional challenges they face in Mexico.
A multi-layer framework for quality of context in ubiquitous context-aware systems
Authors: Al-Shargabi Asma Abdul Ghani , Siewe Francois
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce a comprehensive framework for quality of context in pervasive context-aware systems. The framework includes the context quality characteristics, the quality policy, the quality calculation methods and the quality control algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the constructive research method to introduce the framework. The data of a context-aware flooding prediction system to evaluate the approach were used.

Findings

The framework improves the quality of captured context by resolving the missing, error context and the context conflicts using the quality characteristics and quality control process that are introduced in the framework.

Originality/value

This work is original. It is based on the author’s PhD work in De Montfort University.
Sport technology consumers
Authors: Kim Taejung , Chiu Weisheng , Chow Marcus Kin Fung
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The development of wearable technology has significantly changed the way people participate in physical activities. The purpose of this paper is to segment users of sports wearable devices based on technology readiness (TR).

Design/methodology/approach

Participants comprised a convenience sample of 356 participants using sports wearable devices in South Korea. Cluster analysis was performed to identify clusters of sports wearable users based on their TR (i.e. motivating and inhibiting beliefs regarding technologies). Analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey’s test were used to determine whether there were significant differences among the clusters.

Findings

Clustering identified three groups of users of sports wearable devices: Explorers (high motivation, low inhibition), Laggards (low motivation, high inhibition) and Pioneers (high motivation, high inhibition). Each group demonstrated significant differences in TR (i.e. optimism, innovativeness, discomfort and insecurity). It also found that Laggards are more likely to be female and older users (i.e. over 40 years old).

Originality/value

This study explores characteristics of possible market segments and provides a better understanding of user profiles of sports wearable devices. These findings provide insightful implications for marketers of sports wearable devices, who can tailor marketing strategies to each segment. Designers of sports wearable devices can benefit from the user profiles and develop more appropriate products for users.
Microbial metabolism of methanol and methylamine in the Gulf of Mexico: insight into marine carbon and nitrogen cycling
Authors: Zhuang Guang‐Chao , Peña‐Montenegro Tito D. , Montgomery Andrew , Hunter Kimberley S. , Joye Samantha B.
Published: September 2018

One carbon (C1) metabolism plays an important role in marine carbon cycling but the dynamics and modes of C1 transformations are not fully understood. We made contemporaneous measurements of methylamine and methanol metabolism to elucidate the role of C1 compounds as sources of carbon, energy and nitrogen. Methanol and methylamine were predominantly used as an energy source in offshore waters (oxidation rate constant: kmethanol: 0.02−0.10 day−1; kmethylamine: 0.01−0.18 day−1), but were also important sources of biomass carbon in coastal waters (assimilation rate constant: kmethanol: 0.04−0.10 day−1; kmethylamine: 0.01−0.05 day−1). The relative extent of assimilation versus oxidation for these substrates correlated positively with chlorophyll, nutrients and heterotrophic bacterial production. Methanol oxidation and assimilation were stimulated significantly by nutrient addition. In contrast, methylamine metabolism was inhibited by ammonium or nitrate, suggesting that methylamine served as a nitrogen source. A preliminary metagenomic survey revealed a diverse population of putative C1‐utilizing microorganisms. These results show that the remineralization of methylamine could provide both C and N sources for microbes. Both methanol and methylamine contribute to microbial energetic and carbon substrate demands with a distinctly different signature in nearshore versus offshore environments.
Foreign Direct Investment in China's High‐technology Manufacturing Industries
Authors: Lovely Mary E. , Huang Zixuan
Published: September 2018

This paper provides a survey of foreign investment activity in China's high‐technology manufacturing industry. In addition, we closely examine the relationship between industrial policy, foreign investment and China's high‐technology export success using the development of an indigenous integrated circuits industry as a case study. This paper finds that China's efforts to raise the productivity and innovative capacity of indigenous enterprises is consistent with rising domestic shares of high‐technology assets and profits. Nevertheless, foreign‐funded enterprises remain the source of most high‐technology manufactured exports, primarily from wholly foreign‐owned firms. In sum, despite indigenous development, Chinese high‐technology manufacturing and exports remain deeply tied to foreign investment.
Resource Allocation, Structural Change, and the Dynamics of Manufacturing Productivity in Indonesia
Authors: Yang Chih‐Hai , Yang Chao‐Jing , Chiu Chung‐Yueh , Lin Hsuan‐Yu
Published: September 2018

This paper analyzes productivity growth and its sources in the Indonesian manufacturing sector during the post‐Asian financial crisis period. Based on a plant‐level panel dataset over the period 2001–9, we find meager total factor productivity (TFP) growth in this country's manufacturing industries, merely achieving average annual growth of 0.03%, while TFP growth varies significantly across industries. Further decomposition suggests the need to effectively allocate resources across industries in order to promote aggregate productivity. Moreover, aggregate productivity growth coming from the total reallocation effect remains quite low, lending no support to the structural‐bonus hypothesis. Overall, TFP growth is mainly contributed by incumbents firms, whereas the contribution by firm mobility was larger in some years.
Lethal and behavioral sublethal side effects of thiamethoxam on the predator Harmonia axyridis
Authors: Wang Pan , Zhou Li‐Lin , Yang Fan , Liu Xiao‐Ming , Wang Yong , Lei Chao‐Liang , Si Sheng‐Yun
Published: September 2018

Thiamethoxam (TMX) is one of the most effective neonicotinoid insecticides for the control of green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), and various side effects can be expected in its natural enemies. The multicolored Asian lady beetle or harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), is an important predator against M. persicae in greenhouses and fields. In this study, we evaluated the toxicity of TMX to H. axyridis and the effect on the functional response of this predator to M. persicae through three routes of exposure. Acute toxicity bioassays indicated that LC50 values of TMX on H. axyridis through direct residual contact (‘contact’), systemic application (‘systemic’), and leaf‐dip treatment (‘leaf‐dip’) were 18.99, 21.26, and 15.39 mg a.i. l−1, respectively. The hazard quotient indicated a potential hazard of this agrochemical regardless of the exposure routes. The mortality caused by the lowest rate, 2 mg a.i. l−1, was not significantly different compared with the control group. For the three routes of sublethal TMX exposure, the type‐II functional response was a good fit to the prey consumption of H. axyridis. Predation was most affected by leaf‐dip treatment, followed by contact and systemic treatments, which had similar effect. For all exposure routes, the predation capacity of the predator recovered quickly after transfer to untreated cabbage leaves. Thiamethoxam applied systemically was the least toxic to H. axyridis and did not affect the functional response of the predator. However, the sublethal effects of TMX through both contact and leaf‐dip application may reduce the population growth of H. axyridis and consequently impair the biological control of M. persicae by this predator. These results illustrate that the assessment of potential effects of TMX on H. axyridis is crucial to develop effective integrated pest management programs for M. persicae in China.
Quantifying invader impact: Applying functional response metrics to a rapidly spreading non‐native species
Authors: Kemp Justin S. , Tang Feng , Aldridge David C.
Published: September 2018

Risk assessment currently lacks pliable tools that can be reliably applied across a range of environmental contexts to predict the success and impact of non‐native species (NNS). An approach adopting functional responses (FR) and the Relative Impact Potential (RIP) metric may offer considerable insight and predictive power regarding invader impacts, which may include losses in ecosystem function and biodiversity. We aim to evaluate the use of FRs and the RIP metric in predicting impact in non‐native, data‐deficient bivalves.

Very little is known about the potential impacts of the Gulf wedge clam, Rangia cuneata outside of its native range, and as a rapidly spreading non‐native species, it is highly suitable for this study. Comparisons of feeding activity and abundance between non‐native species and functionally analogous native species may produce reliable impact predictions where significant disparity in these factors exists. We conducted field abundance surveys and laboratory feeding studies on R. cuneata, in order to quantify FRs and the RIP metric. Clearance rates and FRs were calculated for R. cuneata and the sympatric, native unionid duck mussel, Anodonta anatina, across a range of algal concentrations at 1.0 ppt salinity.

Mean ± SE clearance rates (ml g DW−1 hr−1) were found to be significantly greater for R. cuneata (294.31 ± 65.17) than for A. anatina (125.99 ± 29.59) with both species exhibiting a type I functional response. As a result of far greater field abundance of R. cuneata compared with A. anatina (37.7 m−2 ± 6.1 versus 0.7 m−2 ± 0.4 at sympatric sites) and a significantly higher feeding rate, the RIP score for R. cuneata was high (11.61) signifying likely ecological impact. Calculating the probability density function for the RIP includes uncertainty in the metric and also yielded a very high value (38.14), and these results provide the first evidence that R. cuneata should be considered a high‐risk invasive species.

The results of our analyses firmly support the assertion that R. cuneata will likely continue to have significant impact in its introduced range if management action is not taken. The rate of spread of R. cuneata, its established densities and RIP score are all comparable to severely invasive bivalves; therefore, R. cuneata may pose a significant threat to both freshwater and brackish water biodiversity and function. We conclude that FRs and the RIP metric may be extremely beneficial to making reliable impact predictions for non‐native species and are particularly well suited for estimating the potential impacts of data‐deficient novel and emerging non‐natives.
Does size matter? Particle size vs. quality in bivalve suspension feeding
Authors: Tuttle‐Raycraft Shaylah , Ackerman Josef Daniel
Published: September 2018

Increases in total suspended solids (TSS) in rivers have likely contributed to the decline in unionid mussel population sizes as feeding and reproduction are reduced at high TSS concentrations. Surprisingly, however, unionids are often found in turbid rivers. We predicted that clay‐sized particles, which comprise > 80% of river seston (particles in suspension), were too small to affect unionid clearance rate (CR) and thus explain this conundrum.

We examined this hypothesis in laboratory experiments involving four unionid species exposed to four particle‐size based TSS treatments (mixed sediment: 0–63 μm; clay: 0–5 μm; fine silt: 5–38 μm; coarse silt: 38–63 μm; sourced from mussel sites) at 20 mg/L, which is a TSS concentration sufficient to reduce CR.

Whereas the CR for all species was lower for mixed sediment, coarse silt and clay treatments—the latter was opposite to our prediction—the CR of mussels given the fine silt treatment was similar to the no‐TSS control for two species and higher than the other TSS treatments in the other two species. Fine silt contained the most fluorescent (i.e. algal) particles and the highest protein and lipid content, which suggests that CR were higher on the more nutritious diet.

Particle quality, rather than size, is what modulates suspension feeding in turbid rivers. Our current understanding of the ecological effects of bivalve suspension feeding will need to be revised to incorporate field‐based measurements.
Realising platform operational agility through information technology–enabled capabilities: A resource‐interdependence perspective
Authors: Tan Felix Ter Chian , Pan Shan L. , Zuo Meiyun
Published: September 2018

Intensifying competition in recent times requires business‐to‐consumer (B2C) e‐commerce platforms to develop operational agility for competitive advantage. Despite the agreement on an increasing competitive landscape, the process for realising information technology (IT)‐driven operational agility on e‐business platforms has received little scrutiny. Through an investigation of M.com, a leading multisided online retailing platform in China, this study provides a clear thesis of resource interdependencies and IT‐enabled capabilities forged during operational processes to realise operational agility. Our investigation, observations, and reflections from practice substantiate a model of how a platform like M.com cultivates IT‐driven resource‐interdependent competencies and capabilities tantamount to realising operational agility. The model shows how IT enables three capabilities—localised, synergistic, and optimised—which reflect the effective co‐ordination of three resource interdependencies (pooled, sequential, and reciprocal) during M.com's complex operations and processes, and explicates the consequences. For research, we postulate that IT‐enabled operational agility in complex organisational forms, cultivated through the development of resource‐interdependent capabilities to deliver effective sensing and response mechanisms, forms effective strategies for the B2C platform in dynamic marketplace conditions.
Influence of anti‐inflammatory diet and smoking on mortality and survival in men and women: two prospective cohort studies
Authors: Kaluza J. , Håkansson N. , Harris H. R. , Orsini N. , Michaëlsson K. , Wolk A.
Published: September 2018

Background

The associations between an anti‐inflammatory diet and both all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality have been studied previously; however, the influence of an anti‐inflammatory diet on survival time has not been investigated. Moreover, the potential modification of these associations by smoking status remains unclear.

Objective

The aims of this study were to examine the associations between an anti‐inflammatory diet index (AIDI) and all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality, to determine the association between the AIDI and differences in survival time and to assess effect modification by smoking status.

Methods

The study population included 68 273 Swedish men and women (aged 45–83 years) at baseline. The anti‐inflammatory potential of the diet was estimated using the validated AIDI, which includes 11 potential anti‐inflammatory and five potential pro‐inflammatory foods. Cox proportional hazards and Laplace regression were used to estimate hazard ratios and differences in survival time.

Results

During 16 years of follow‐up (1 057 959 person‐years), 16 088 deaths [5980 due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and 5252 due to cancer] were recorded. Participants in the highest versus lowest quartile of the AIDI had lower risks of all‐cause (18% reduction, 95% CI: 14–22%), CVD (20%, 95% CI: 14–26%) and cancer (13%, 95% CI: 5–20%) mortality. The strongest inverse associations between the highest and lowest quartiles of AIDI and risk of mortality were observed in current smokers: 31%, 36% and 22% lower risks of all‐cause, CVD and cancer mortality, respectively. The difference in survival time between current smokers in the lowest AIDI quartile and never smokers in the highest quartile was 4.6 years.

Conclusion

Adherence to a diet with high anti‐inflammatory potential may reduce all‐cause, CVD and cancer mortality and prolong survival time especially amongst smokers.
Work as a Masculinity Contest
Authors: Berdahl Jennifer L. , Cooper Marianne , Glick Peter , Livingston Robert W. , Williams Joan C.
Published: September 2018

We propose that a key reason why the workplace gender revolution has stalled (England, 2010) is that work remains the site of masculinity contests among men. In this article, we outline a theoretical framework for thinking about work as a masculinity contest, beginning with a brief review of scholarship on masculinity and exploring how the workplace is a context in which men feel particular pressure to prove themselves as “real men.” We identify different dimensions of masculinity along which employees may compete and how the competition may differ by work context. We propose that organizations with Masculinity Contest Cultures (MCCs) represent dysfunctional organizational climates (e.g., rife with toxic leadership, bullying, harassment) associated with poor individual outcomes for men as well as women (e.g., burnout, low organizational dedication, lower well‐being). We discuss how papers in this special issue contribute insight into MCCs and end with a discussion of the contributions made by conceptualizing work as a masculinity contest, and directions for future research.
The impact of Cymbopogon martinii essential oil on Cutibacterium (formerly Propionibacterium) acnes strains and its interaction with keratinocytes
Authors: Murbach Teles Andrade Bruna Fernanda , Nunes Barbosa Lidiane , Bérgamo Alves Fernanda Cristina , Pereira Marques Ana Flávia , Albano Mariana , Mores Rall Vera Lúcia , Brüggemann Holger , Fernandes Júnior Ary
Published: September 2018

Objectives

The human skin microbiota is mainly composed of bacteria belonging to the genera Staphylococcus, Cutibacterium, Micrococcus and Corynebacterium, but on the skin of the face and back, ca. 50% of the total microbiota is represented by the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes. The aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of C. martini EO and its major compound, geraniol, on C. acnes.

Methods

The minimum inhibitory concentration against C. acnes strains, phenotypic changes and responses of the proteome was determined. In addition, was assessed the effect of compounds in RNA-binding assay, on C. acnes-exposed keratinocytes and on the C. acnes type distribution on shoulder skin.

Key findings

The range of the MIC was 0.7 to 1.6 mg/ml for the three main C. acnes types. There were no cytotoxic effects of compounds in the absence or presence of C. acnes; after 7 days of exposure to C. martini EO, we could not detect a major shift of the C. acnes types on shoulder skin that was found to be dominated by C. acnes strains of types II and IA2.

Conclusions

Our work gives novel insight into the skin microbiota-interacting properties of C. martini EO.
High‐intensity inspiratory muscle training in bronchiectasis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ozalp Ozge , Inal‐Ince Deniz , Cakmak Aslihan , Calik‐Kutukcu Ebru , Saglam Melda , Savci Sema , Vardar‐Yagli Naciye , Arikan Hülya , Karakaya Jale , Coplu Lütfi
Published: September 2018

Background and objective

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) enhances velocity of inspiratory muscle contraction and modifies inspiratory and expiratory time. This study aimed to examine the impact of high‐intensity IMT (H‐IMT) on exercise capacity in bronchiectasis.

Methods

Forty‐five patients were included. Lung function, respiratory muscle strength and endurance, exercise capacity, dyspnoea, fatigue and quality of life (QOL) were evaluated. Patients were randomized into two groups: H‐IMT and control groups. Twenty‐three patients underwent H‐IMT for 8 weeks, using threshold loading with a target workload of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) of at least 70%, with 3‐min cycles (as 2‐min training: 1‐min rest intervals) for 21 min. There was a total period of 14 min of loaded breathing and 7 min of recovery. The control group (n = 22) underwent low‐intensity IMT at 10% of the initial MIP and was maintained at the same intensity until the end of the training.

Results

After training, both MIP and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and the incremental shuttle walk distance were increased in the H‐IMT group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in constant threshold load, time and pressure–time units in the H‐IMT group (P < 0.05) but not in the control group (P > 0.05). A significant decrease was found in fatigue in both groups (P < 0.05). The Leicester Cough Questionnaire social score for the H‐IMT group decreased significantly after the treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The H‐IMT increased exercise capacity in patients with non‐cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. It has also positive effects on respiratory muscle strength and endurance, and social aspects of QOL.
Networks and Agricultural Development: The Case of Soybean Production and Consumption in Brazil
Authors: de Sowa Ivan Sergio Freire , Busch Lawrence
Published: September 2018

Diffusion theory and political economy are the two most common ways by which rural sociologists have explained the widespread use of agricultural innovations. In this paper, we argue, borrowing from science studies and using the empirical case of soybeans in Brazil, that the use of agricultural innovations is better understood as the result of the construction of networks of people and things. Thirty years ago soybean production in Brazil was insignificant. However, at that time a soybean network began to be formed. Initial actors were, among others, (1) soybean varieties produced in the United States, (2) wheat farmers located in the south of Brazil, and (3) soil in need of nitrogen, an expensive input for the new wheat varieties. State policies were no doubt important in consolidating that network. However, other persons, institutions and things were also necessary, including science and technology, the creation and/or expansion of farmers' organizations such as cooperatives, and the solution to the problem of photoperiod sensitivity in soybeans. We follow the soybean from its introduction in Brazil to its present status as an important crop. The overall context within which the soybean network began is also described. We conclude that the actor network approach is more congruent with the history of soybeans in Brazil than diffusion theory or political economy.
The Impact of Protest on Elections in the United States*
Authors: Gillion Daniel Q. , Soule Sarah A.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

The objective of this study was to understand the effect of citizen mobilization on both electoral outcomes and on the likelihood that new candidates will enter races to challenge incumbent politicians.

Methods

This study uses quantitative, longitudinal data (at the congressional‐district level) on protest, electoral outcomes, and challengers entering races, which are analyzed using an autoregressive distributed lagged regression model.

Results

Results show that protests that express liberal issues lead to a greater percentage of the two‐party vote share for Democratic candidates, while protests that espouse conservative issues offer Republican candidates a greater share of the two‐party vote. Additionally, results indicated that protest shines a light on incumbent politicians’ failure to address constituent concerns, which leads quality candidates to enter subsequent races to challenge incumbent politicians.

Conclusions

Citizen activism, which has been shown to impact state and firm policy decisions, also impacts electoral outcomes.
Age‐associated changes in the equine flash visual evoked potential
Authors: Ström Lena , Michanek Måns , Ekesten Björn
Published: September 2018

Objective

To investigate age‐associated changes of flash visual evoked potentials (FVEPs) in sedated horses.

Animal studied

Twenty‐eight clinically healthy Standardbred Warmblooded trotters, aged 36 hours to 28 years.

Procedures

Light‐adaptedFVEPs andFERGs were recorded (An‐visionRETIport, Roland‐consult, Germany) in response to flash stimuli. Sedation was obtained using alpha‐2‐agonists intravenously. Akinesia of the eyelids was induced and pupils were dilated.

Results

ReproducibleFVEPs andFERGs were readily recorded from all foals and horses. TheFVEPwaveform included up to four positive components (P1‐P5) and two negative components (N1 and N2) andFVEPwaveform morphology was similar across all age groups. Some differences in peak times and amplitudes associated with increasing age were observed.FVEPamplitudes recorded from newborn foals were well above the amplitudes observed in normal adult horses andFVEPpeak times were somewhat shorter. In adult horses, a significant increase in P4 peak time and a gradual decrease in amplitudes, mainly for N2P4, were seen across the life‐span.

Conclusions

The overall equineFVEPwaveform was similar across the normal life‐span of the horse in our cross‐sectional study. We found that the visual system of the foal seems to be well developed already at birth. Furthermore, our results showed a decrease in amplitudes and increase in some peak times with increasing age. We recommend that age‐matched controls should be used when evaluating foals and young horses in clinical practice, whereas horses over the age of three years can be compared to other adult horses.
Choosing Exercise Cadence on the Outdoor Stepper for Various Exercise Intensity
Authors: Pinar Yeliz Ozdol , Onen Mert Eray , Erzeybek Musatafa Said , Sanli Goktug , Pinar Salih
Published: September 2018

Public parks and gardens are gaining numerous outdoor fitness equipment (OFE), easily accessed by the public. Most people use this equipment without any guidance and thus there is a need for basic guidelines on how to use the equipment. This study offers a practical guideline for exercising on one of the most widely used pieces of OFE, the outdoor stepping machine (OSM). Thirty-four healthy adults (nine females, 25 males) participated in workouts of three separate stepping exercises at different intensities, controlled by stepping cadence. At each 5-minute phase, rated perceived exertion (RPE), oxygen consumption (VO2), metabolic equivalent of task (MET) and heart rate (HR) were measured. Corresponding MET values of exercise cadences were calculated to be 5.3 at 80 steps.min−1, 6.0 at 96 steps.min−1 and 6.6 at 112 steps.min−1. Mean values for RPE at each stepping cadence were 9.1 (very light), 11.9 (moderate) and 14.8 (difficult), respectively. In conclusion, when the ACSM’s guidelines for indoor stepper machine (ISM) were taken as a reference, 80 steps.min−1 were suitable for warm-up, 96 and 112 steps.min−1 were appropriate for moderate exercise. People exercising on OSMs could easily use the cadence or the RPE scale as a guideline to exercise at the desired intensity.