bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogeny, phylogeography and hybridization of Caucasian barbels of the genusBarbus(Actinopterygii, Cyprinidae)
Authors: Levin Boris A. , Gandlin Alexander A. , Simonov Evgeniy S. , Levina Marina A. , Barmintseva Anna E. , Japoshvili Bella , Mugue Nikolai S. , Mumladze Levan , Mustafayev Namig J. , Pashkov Andrey N. , Roubenyan Haikaz R. , Shapovalov Maxim I. , Doadrio Ignacio
Published: November 2018

The phylogenetic relationships and the phylogeography of seven species of Caucasian barbels of the genusBarbuss. str. were studied based on extended geographic coverage and the use of mtDNA and nDNA markers. Based on the 26 species studied, matrilineal phylogeny of the genusBarbusis composed of two clades: a) West European clade, and b) Central and East European clade. The latter comprises two subclades: b1) Balkanian subclade, and b2) Ponto-Caspian subclade, which includes 11 lineages mainly from Black and Caspian Sea drainages. Caucasian barbels are not monophyletic and are subdivided into two groups. The Black Sea group encompasses species from tributaries of the Black Sea, including the reinstalledB. rionicus, except forB. kubanicus. The Caspian group includesB. ciscaucasicus, B. cyri(withB. goktschaicus, which might be synonymized withB. cyri), B. lacertafrom the Tigris-Euphrates basin andB. kubanicusfrom the Kuban basin. The genetic structure of Black Sea barbels was influenced by glaciation-deglaciation periods accompanied by freshwater phases, periods of migration and the colonization of Black Sea tributaries. Intra- and intergeneric hybridization among Caucasian barbines was revealed for the first time. In the present study, we report the discovery ofB. escherichiiin the Kuban basin, where onlyB. kubanicuswas known to inhabit. Hybrids of these two species were detected based on both mtDNA and nDNA markers. Remarkably, the Kuban population ofB. escherichiiis distant to closely located conspecific populations, and we consider it as a relic. We reveal the intergeneric hybridization between evolutionary tetraploid (2n=100)B. goktschaicusand evolutionary hexaploid (2n=150)Capoeta sevangiin Lake Sevan.
Ran-GTP is non-essential to activate NuMA for spindle pole focusing, but dynamically polarizes HURP to control mitotic spindle length
Authors: Tsuchiya Kenta , Hayashi Hisato , Nishina Momoko , Okumura Masako , Sato Yoshikatsu , Kanemaki Masato T. , Goshima Gohta , Kiyomitsu Tomomi
Published: November 2018

During mitosis, a bipolar spindle is assembled around chromosomes to efficiently capture chromosomes. Previous work proposed that a chromosome-derived Ran-GTP gradient promotes spindle assembly around chromosomes by liberating spindle assembly factors (SAFs) from inhibitory importins. However, Ran’s dual functions in interphase nucleocytoplasmic transport and mitotic spindle assembly have made it difficult to assess its mitotic roles in somatic cells. Here, using auxin-inducible degron technology in human cells, we developed acute mitotic degradation assays to dissect Ran’s mitotic roles systematically and separately from its interphase function. In contrast to the prevailing model, we found that the Ran pathway is not essential for spindle assembly activities that occur at sites spatially separated from chromosomes, including activating NuMA for spindle pole focusing or for targeting TPX2. In contrast, Ran-GTP is required to localize HURP and HSET specifically at chromosome-proximal regions. We demonstrated that Ran-GTP and importin-β coordinately promote HURP’s dynamic microtubule binding-dissociation cycle near chromosomes, which results in stable kinetochore-fiber formation. Intriguingly, this pathway acts to establish proper spindle length preferentially during prometaphase, rather than metaphase. Together, we propose that the Ran pathway is required to activate SAFs specifically near chromosomes, but not generally during human mitotic spindle assembly. Ran-dependent spindle assembly is likely coupled with parallel pathways to activate SAFs, including NuMA, for spindle pole focusing away from chromosomes.

Highlights

Using auxin-inducible degron technology, we developed mitotic degradation assays for the Ran pathway in human cells.

The Ran pathway is non-essential to activate NuMA for spindle pole focusing.

The Ran pathway dynamically polarizes HURP and defines mitotic spindle length preferentially during prometaphase.

Ran-GTP is required to activate SAFs specifically near chromosomes, but not generally, in human mitotic cells.
Sensitivity of automatic control of emergency manoeuvre to parametric uncertainty of the airplane model
Authors: Graffstein Jerzy , Maslowski Piotr
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The main purpose of this work was elaboration and verification of a method of assessing the sensitivity of automatic control laws to parametric uncertainty of an airplane’s mathematical model. The linear quadratic regulator (LQR) methodology was used as an example design procedure for the automatic control of an emergency manoeuvre. Such a manoeuvre is assumed to be pre-designed for the selected airplane.

Design/methodology/approach

The presented method of investigating the control systems’ sensitivity comprises two main phases. The first one consists in computation of the largest variations of gain factors, defined as differences between their nominal values (defined for the assumed model) and the values obtained for the assumed range of parametric uncertainty. The second phase focuses on investigating the impact of the variations of these factors on the behaviour of automatic control in the manoeuvre considered.

Findings

The results obtained allow for a robustness assessment of automatic control based on an LQR design. Similar procedures can be used to assess in automatic control arrived at through varying design methods (including methods other than LQR) used to control various manoeuvres in a wide range of flight conditions.

Practical implications

It is expected that the presented methodology will contribute to improvement of automatic flight control quality. Moreover, such methods should reduce the costs of the mathematical nonlinear model of an airplane through determining the necessary accuracy of the model identification process, needed for assuring the assumed control quality.

Originality/value

The presented method allows for the investigation of the impact of the parametric uncertainty of the airplane’s model on the variations of the gain-factors of an automatic flight control system. This also allows for the observation of the effects of such variations on the course of the selected manoeuvre or phase of flight. This might be a useful tool for the design of crucial elements of an automatic flight control system.
Development of thermo-regulating fabrics using PCM microcapsules with poly(methyl methacrylate-co-2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate) shell andn-alkane core
Authors: Altun-Anayurt Ruhan , Alay-Aksoy Sennur , Alkan Cemil , Demirbag Sena , Tözüm M. Selda
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to prepare microencapsulated phase change materials (PCMs) and apply them to cotton and wool fabrics for developing thermo-regulating fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

Microencapsulatedn-hexadecane andn-octadecane with poly(methylmethacrylate-co-2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate) shell was prepared. Microcapsules were fabricated using oil-in-water emulsion polymerization method. Their chemical structure, microstructure, thermal energy storage properties and thermal stability were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, polarized light microscope, differential scanning calorimeter and thermogravimetric analyzer, respectively. The mean particle size was tested by a particle sized instrument. The microcapsules were applied to the wool and cotton fabrics using pad-dry-cure method. The thermo-regulating property of the fabrics was evaluated using the T-History test. The distribution and durability of the microcapsules on the fabrics was investigated with scanning electron microscopy.

Findings

Spherical microcapsules with p(MMA-co-HEMA) shell andn-alkane core have been produced successfully.n-hexadecane in microcapsule solidifies at 14.8−15.6°C with the latent heat of 65.6−129.8 J/g and melts at 16.7−16.9°C with the latent heat of 67.6−136.9 J/g. Microencapsulatedn-octadecane solidifies at 25.8−26.3°C with the latent heat of 74.1−106.2 J/g and melts at 26.8−27.4°C with the latent heat of 80.3−113.4 J/g. The microcapsules have enough thermal stability to the temperature of 150°C that was applied during the fixation of microcapsules on the fabric. The thermo-regulating effect of the microcapsule-incorporated fabrics has been proved by the T-history test.

Originality/value

PCM microcapsules with p(MMA-co-HEMA) shell andn-hexadecane andn-octadecane core have been produced and their usage to produce thermo-regulating textiles have been proved. To determine the thermo-regulating property of the fabrics treated with these new PCM microcapsules, a T-History system has been designed.
Open Taiwan Government data recommendation platform using DBpedia and Semantic Web based on cloud computing
Authors: Chen I-Cheng , Hsu I-Ching
Published: November 2018

Purpose

In recent years, governments around the world are actively promoting the Open Government Data (OGD) to facilitate reusing open data and developing information applications. Currently, there are more than 35,000 data sets available on the Taiwan OGD website. However, the existing Taiwan OGD website only provides keyword queries and lacks a friendly query interface. This study aims to address these issues by defining a DBpedia cloud computing framework (DCCF) for integrating DBpedia with Semantic Web technologies into Spark cluster cloud computing environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed DCCF is used to develop a Taiwan OGD recommendation platform (TOGDRP) that provides a friendly query interface to automatically filter out the relevant data sets and visualize relationships between these data sets.

Findings

To demonstrate the feasibility of TOGDRP, the experimental results illustrate the efficiency of the different cloud computing models, including Hadoop YARN cluster model, Spark standalone cluster model and Spark YARN cluster model.

Originality/value

The novel solution proposed in this study is a hybrid approach for integrating Semantic Web technologies into Hadoop and Spark cloud computing environment to provide OGD data sets recommendation.
Information literacy and learners’ satisfaction
Authors: Aljanabi Abdulqadir Rahomee Ahmed , AL-Hadban Waleed K.H. Mohamed
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to empirically examine the relationships among information literacy (IL), social networking technology usage (SNTU) and learners’ satisfaction (LS) among university students. The research also aims to determine whether SNTU has a mediating role in the relationship between IL and LS.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the proposed framework, a self-administered questionnaire was adopted to gather data from students at Komar University of Science and Technology. Of a total of 520 questionnaires, 335 were returned and subsequently used for statistical analysis. The collected data were analysed using Smart-PLS software version 3.2.0.

Findings

The results of the present research indicate that both IL and SNTU have significant effects on LS. Furthermore, the results suggest that SNTU has a mediating role in the relationship between IL and LS and that IL has the ability to strengthen LS via SNTU.

Originality/value

This study offers significant insights that could guide educational institutions in their understanding of LS and the key factors that may affect it. Previous studies have not prioritized the impact of IL and SNTU on LS, and thus the results of this study can serve as a basis for enhancing LS in other educational sectors.
What is new in “a new history of management”?
Authors: Batiz-Lazo Bernardo
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the contributions of the so-called “Historic Turn” in Organization Studies through the attempt by Cummingset al.(2016) to offer a new and alternative approach to teaching and researching the history of management ideas.A New History of Managementis intended to be a provocation rather than a practical plan, and by their own admission, Cummingset al.(2016) prefer controversy to detailed analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers a comment and reinterpretation of a single contribution to highlight deficiencies which are symptomatic of the post-modernist research agenda around the “Historic Turn” in Organization Studies. The argument develops through a critical reading of Cummingset al.(2016) to determine whether theirs is a thoughtful and serious piece of work.

Findings

Cummingset al.(2016) invite us to revise and re-evaluate the genesis of management ideas available across textbooks. This by questioning some of the beliefs regarding the origins of management thought within textbooks aimed at both general management and the history of management thought. The premise of Cummings and colleagues is a timely and welcomed suggestion. So is their attempt to broaden the debate to alternative epistemological positions. They can potentially help to improve the emergence of conceptual and theoretical understandings of the history of managers’, business and management thought. Although far from being exhaustive, the paper points to the large number of inconsistencies and poor historiography in Cummingset al.(2016). This is in line with other contributions to the so-called “Historic Turn” in Organization Studies. The central argument presented by this paper is the myopic and technically poor approach of the “Historic Turn”. It is the case that Cummingset al.(2016) fail in their attempt to offer an alternative to established textbooks or explain the development of different approaches to construct systematic studies that, over time, consider the evolution of management, managers and those who have conceptualized their performance.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not present new (archival) historical evidence.

Originality/value

The central contribution/ambition of this paper is to incentivize an advance of the current understanding of the origins and evolution of systematic thinking on management, managers and business organizations. The ambition of this paper is in line with Cummingset al.(2016) aim to incentivize research into how textbooks address the origins of management and management thought. Textbooks in both general management and the history of management thought, and the story told in them are important tools that speak directly to the ability of historical research to help advance the different disciplines that form general studies in business and management.
The impact of altruistic attribution and brand equity in food label campaigns
Authors: Legendre Stéphane , Coderre François
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse the impact of two determinants of purchase intention in food label campaigns: altruistic attribution and brand equity.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 × 2 between-group factorial experimental design was used, with 2 levels of altruistic attribution (high/low) and 2 levels of brand equity (high/low). The product used for the study was pork chops. A survey was conducted on 602 respondents representing the population of Quebec, Canada.

Findings

Structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the fit of the data with the proposed mod el. The results demonstrate that altruistic attribution and brand equity have an indirect impact on purchase intention via perceptions of taste and food safety. Altruistic attribution, but not brand equity, also has a direct impact on purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

The experiment in this study was conducted via an online consumer panel to increase internal validity. As a result, one of the limitations of the study concerns its external validity.

Practical implications

This research provides strategic guidelines for businesses or organisations that wish to develop food label campaigns. They must simultaneously consider both altruistic attribution and pre-existing brand equity.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating the impact of altruistic attribution and brand equity on purchase intention in the context of food label campaigns. The study mobilises attribution theory and the multidimensional consumer-based brand equity scale.
How interconnected SMEs in business cluster survive the economic crisis
Authors: Andreano M. Simona , Benedetti Roberto , Mazzitelli Andrea , Piersimoni Federica , Di Fatta Davide
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce a new framework that helps to get an overview of contextual factors that influence the ability of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to survive the economic crisis in a business cluster, as parts of a system.

Design/methodology/approach

The spatial autologistic model and the logit regression tree (RT) were applied to SME manufacturing companies localized in the business clusters of the Italian Marche region to explain interconnection among the actors of the network and their heterogeneous behavior with the environment.

Findings

The main findings of the application confirm that contextual influences are decisive in the definition of firm’s survival, explained through the presence of spatial dependence in bankruptcy analysis, validating the transmission effects of corporate bankruptcy within the business clusters in the Marche region.

Originality/value

The estimation of the logistic RT allowed to identify sub-systems, homogeneous with respect to crucial context variables, with different firms’ behaviors in terms of probability to survive in the system and relation to their environment. Therefore, a systemic approach is required to provide a better understanding of such kind of phenomena.
Environmental impact of FDI – the case of US subsidiaries
Authors: Cerdeira Bento João Paulo , Moreira António
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how foreign direct investment (FDI) and firm-specific advantages (FSAs) of US multinational enterprises (MNEs) majority-owned subsidiaries affect environmental pollution in host countries. The research results contribute to helping managers and policymakers understand the environmental impact of MNEs activities, and encourage these firms to develop environmentally responsible management (ERM) as an element of their corporate social responsibility practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel data consisting of developing and developed countries spanning the years 2004 through 2014 are used. The dynamic panel generalised method of moments technique is implemented. This method avoids common estimation bias, such as endogeneity, heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation.

Findings

This paper finds that the direct environmental impacts of FDI vary significantly between the two groups of countries. The environmental benefits of FDI to the recipient country are achieved through capital and technology transfer. The study also reveals that R&D intensity moderates the relationship between FDI and environmental pollution in both developing and developed countries in such a way that environmental pollution decreases.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could explore the environmental impact of MNEs on host countries by considering both equity and non-equity entry modes. The findings offer some support to host government policies offering generous incentive packages to attract R&D investment to improve environmental pollution. This research raises questions as to the reasons corporations operating in developing and developed countries should pursue their ERM practices.

Originality/value

This research examines both the direct effect of FDI and the moderating effects of FSAs on the relationship between FDI and the environment. Although previous studies have already looked at the relationship between FDI and the environment, the moderating effect of FSAs is very under-developed in this relationship.
The sequential effect of CSR and COE: family ownership moderation
Authors: Hajawiyah Ain , Adhariani Desi , Djakman Chaerul
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the sequential effect of cost of equity capital and corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure with family ownership as a moderating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical study examines samples of manufacturing firm in Indonesia using multiple regression analysis.

Findings

Firms with high cost of equity capital in previous years have extensive CSR disclosure level. Further, firms with extensive CSR disclosure get benefit of lower cost of equity capital in the following year. Family ownership weakens the effect of previous years cost of equity capital on CSR disclosure. On the other hand, family ownership does not moderate the effect of CSR disclosure on the cost of equity capital.

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations in terms of CSR measurement using keywords which may not include overall reporting contents. This study also excludes information in sustainability reports and websites, images and scanned files that may provide additional information about the company’s social and environmental activities. This study is limited in terms of the generalization aspect because it only examines firms in one type of industry in one country over three years’ period.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence on the sequential effect of cost of equity capital and CSR disclosure with family ownership as moderating variable from an emerging market context, which has been rarely explored in the previous research.
Papuloerythroderma‐like cutaneous involvement of a CD62L− subclone of T‐cell prolymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Nakagawa Yuki , Hamada Toshihisa , Matsuda Mayuko , Kanno Taisuke , Kondo Takumi , Takahashi Takahide , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Okada Ken , Kawakami Toru , Miyake Tomoko , Morizane Shin , Iwatsuki Keiji
Published: November 2018

We report the case of an 88‐year‐old Japanese man with erythrodermic involvement of T‐cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T‐PLL). He had a history of pharyngeal diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma successfully treated with polychemotherapy including cyclophosphamide and epirubicin, 6 years before the current illness. He presented with numerous reddish, coalescing, flat‐topped papules on the trunk and extremities, sparing the skin folds of the abdomen, the features of which mimicked those of papuloerythroderma. Immunohistochemistry showed perivascular and epidermotropic infiltration of CD3+ CD4+ T cells in the cutaneous lesion. However, flow cytometric analysis revealed that the skin infiltrating T cells were negative for surface CD4, and that CD3+ CD4− CD8− cells made up 92% of the T‐cell fraction of peripheral blood. The circulating atypical T cells had a round or oval nucleus and prominent nucleoli, and the deletion of chromosomes 6q, 13 and 17. These cytological profiles were consistent with those of T‐PLL and distinct from those of Sézary cells. The same T‐cell clone was detected in the cutaneous lesion and peripheral blood, but the expression of CD62L was absent in the skin infiltrates and present in the circulating cells. No specific mutation was detected in STAT3 or STAT5B. Although low‐dose oral etoposide had a beneficial effect on the skin rash, a fatal crisis of marked leukocytosis (169 × 103/μL) occurred 19 months after the illness onset. CD62L‐leukemic cells of T‐PLL may infiltrate the skin to form papuloerythroderma‐like cutaneous lesions.
In vivo evolution of viral virulence: switching of deformed wing virus between hosts results in virulence changes and sequence shifts
Authors: Gisder Sebastian , Möckel Nadine , Eisenhardt Dorothea , Genersch Elke
Published: November 2018

The health of the Western honey bee is threatened by a global epidemic of deformed wing virus (DWV) infections driven by the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor acting as mechanical and biological virus vector. Three different variants of DWV, DWV‐A, ‐B and ‐C exist. Virulence differences between these variants and their relation to V. destructor are still controversially discussed. We performed laboratory experiments to analyze the virulence of DWV directly isolated from crippled bees (DWVP0) or after one additional passage in bee pupae (DWVP1). We demonstrated that DWVP0 was more virulent than DWVP1 for pupae, when pupal mortality was taken as virulence marker, and for adult bees, when neurotropism and cognitive impairment were taken as virulence markers. Phylogenetic analysis supported that DWV exists as quasispecies and showed that DWVP0 clustered with DWV‐B and DWVP1 with DWV‐A when the phylogeny was based on the master sequences of the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase but not so when it was based on the VP3 region master sequences. We propose that switching of DWV between the bee and the mite host is accompanied by changes in viral sequence, tissue tropism and virulence and that the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase is involved in determining host range and virulence.
Comparative metabolomics reveals defence‐related modification of citrinin by Penicillium citrinum within a synthetic Penicillium–Pseudomonas community
Authors: Shi Yutong , Pan Chengqian , Cen Suoyu , Fu Leilei , Cao Xun , Wang Hong , Wang Kuiwu , Wu Bin
Published: November 2018

Co‐occurring microorganisms have been proved to influence the performance of each other by metabolic means in nature. Here we generated a synthetic fungal‐bacterial community comprising Penicillium citrinum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa employing the previously described membrane‐separated co‐culture device. By applying a newly designed molecular networking routine, new citrinin‐related metabolites induced by the fungal‐bacterial cross‐talk were unveiled in trace amounts. A mechanically cycled co‐culture setup with external pumping forces accelerating the chemically interspecies communication was then developed to boost the production of cross‐talk‐induced metabolites. Multivariate data analysis combined with molecular networking revealed the accumulation of a pair of co‐culture‐induced molecules whose productions were positively correlated to the exchange rate in the new co‐cultures, facilitating the discovery of the previously undescribed antibiotic citrinolide with a novel skeleton. This highly oxidized citrinin adduct showed significantly enhanced antibiotic property against the partner strain P. aeruginosa than its precursor citrinin, suggesting a role in the microbial competition. Thus, we propose competitive‐advantage‐oriented structural modification driven by microbial defence response mechanism in the interspecies cross‐talk might be a promising approach in the search for novel antibiotics. Besides, this study highlights the utility of MS‐based metabolomics as an effective tool in the direct biochemical analysis of the community metabolism.
Community structural differences shape microbial responses to high molecular weight organic matter
Authors: Balmonte John Paul , Buckley Andrew , Hoarfrost Adrienne , Ghobrial Sherif , Ziervogel Kai , Teske Andreas , Arnosti Carol
Published: November 2018

The extent to which differences in microbial community structure result in variations in organic matter (OM) degradation is not well understood. Here, we tested the hypothesis that distinct marine microbial communities from North Atlantic surface and bottom waters would exhibit varying compositional succession and functional shifts in response to the same pool of complex high molecular weight (HMW‐OM). We also hypothesized that microbial communities would produce a broader spectrum of enzymes upon exposure to HMW‐OM, indicating a greater potential to degrade these compounds than reflected by initial enzymatic activities. Our results show that community succession in amended mesocosms was congruent with cell growth, increased bacterial production and most notably, with substantial shifts in enzymatic activities. In all amended mesocosms, closely related taxa that were initially rare became dominant at time frames during which a broader spectrum of active enzymes were detected compared to initial timepoints, indicating a similar response among different communities. However, succession on the whole‐community level, and the rates, spectra and progression of enzymatic activities, reveal robust differences among distinct communities from discrete water masses. These results underscore the crucial role of rare bacterial taxa in ocean carbon cycling and the importance of bacterial community structure for HMW‐OM degradation.
Is HIV prevention creating new biosocialities among gay men? Treatment as prevention and pre‐exposure prophylaxis in Canada
Authors: Girard Gabriel , Patten San , LeBlanc Marc‐André , Adam Barry D. , Jackson Edward
Published: November 2018

The advancements of “treatment as prevention” (TasP), “undetectable viral load” (UVL) and “pre‐exposure prophylaxis” (PrEP) are redefining HIV prevention standards. Relying on the concept of biosociality, this article explores how gay men rally around, debate, and sometimes disagree about these emerging HIV prevention technologies. This article is based on data from the Resonance Project, a Canadian community‐based research project. Twelve focus groups (totalling 86 gay and bisexual men) were held in three Canadian cities (Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver) in 2013–2014. Respondents view UVL and PrEP through the prism of their generational experience of HIV prevention. In this respect, biosocialities highlight an experiential dimension that is tied to the context of the HIV epidemic. The biosocialities of HIV prevention are also built around serological identities. However, our study shows the diversity of these positions. Analysis grounded in biosocialities is useful for better understanding how scientific information circulates, is made sense of, and generates debate among gay men.
Differential Identification of Three Young Housefire Victims: Methods when Age Assessment Fails
Authors: Nase John B.
Published: November 2018

Multiple fatality incidents involving more than one child of statistically same age (including twins) can be challenging from an identification standpoint. This case details an urban fire, in which four children perished. Age assessment on three of the victims utilizing maturity staging described by Moorrees, Fanning, and Hunt yielded insignificant results. However, a plot of the MFH data shows the difference between two identical twins and a third child. The twins share a similar growth pattern, whereas the other was different. Based on this graphical interpretation, the nontwin victim was positively identified through exclusion. These results were verified through statistical testing. This case demonstrates a method to repurpose age assessment data to graphically distinguish between child victims. Further, it is shown that radiographic and clinical presentation in childhood identical twins can elicit genetic versus acquired similarities and differences, which can be used for identification of individuals and exclusion of others.
Role of interleukin‐7 in fusion of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells with cardiomyocytes in vitro and improvement of cardiac function in vivo
Authors: Haneef Kanwal , Ali Anwar , Khan Irfan , Naeem Nadia , Jamall Siddiqua , Salim Asmat
Published: November 2018

Aims

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold significant promise as potential therapeutic candidates following cardiac injury. However, to ensure survival of transplanted cells in ischemic environment, it is beneficial to precondition them with growth factors that play important role in cell survival and proliferation. Aim of this study is to use interleukin‐7 (IL‐7), a cell survival growth factor, to enhance the potential of rat bone marrowMSCs in terms of cell fusion in vitro and cardiac function in vivo.

Methods

Mesenchymal stem cells were transfected withIL‐7 gene through retroviral vector. Normal and transfectedMSCs were co‐cultured with neonatal cardiomyocytes (CMs) and cell fusion was analyzed by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. TheseMSCs were also transplanted in rat model of myocardial infarction (MI) and changes at tissue level and cardiac function were assessed by histological analysis and echocardiography, respectively.

Results

Co‐culture ofIL‐7 transfectedMSCs andCMs showed significantly higher (P < 0.01) number of fused cells as compared to normalMSCs. Histological analysis of hearts transplanted withIL‐7 transfectedMSCs showed significant reduction (P < 0.001) in infarct size and better preservation (P < 0.001) of left ventricular wall thickness as compared to normalMSCs. Presence of cardiac‐specific proteins, α‐actinin, and troponin‐T showed that the transplantedMSCs were differentiated into cardiomyocytes. Echocardiographic recordings of the experimental group transplanted with transfectedMSCs showed significant increase in the ejection fraction and fractional shortening (P < 0.01), and decrease in diastolic and systolic left ventricular internal diameters (P < 0.001) and end systolic and diastolic volumes (P < 0.01 andP < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Interleukin‐7 is able to enhance the fusogenic properties ofMSCs and improve cardiac function. This improvement may be attributed to the supportive action ofIL‐7 on cell proliferation and cell survival contributing to the regeneration of damaged myocardium.
First evidence of cytotoxic effects of human protozoan parasites on zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) haemocytes
Authors: Le Guernic Antoine , Geffard Alain , Rioult Damien , Bonnard Isabelle , Le Foll Frank , Palos Ladeiro Mélissa
Published: November 2018

The interaction between human protozoan parasites and the immune cells of bivalves, that can accumulate them, is poorly described. The purpose of this study is to consider the mechanisms of action of some of these protozoa on zebra mussel haemocytes, by evaluating their cytotoxic potential. Haemocytes were exposed to Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia duodenalis or Cryptosporidium parvum (oo)cysts. The results showed a cytotoxic potency of the two largest protozoa on haemocytes and suggested the formation of haemocyte aggregates. Thus, this study reveals the first signs of a haemocyte:protozoan interaction.
Differential expression of Wilms’ tumour 1 gene in porcine urogenital organs during development
Authors: Tan Wentao , Zhang Xueming , Wang Zhengzhu , Chen Yue , Wang Aibing , Chu Meiran , Tang Bo , Li Ziyi
Published: November 2018

Wilms’ tumour 1 gene (WT1) is essential for the development of mammalian urogenital system. However, the expression pattern of WT1 in the development of porcine urogenital organs is still unclear. Here, we examined the expression of WT1 mRNA and protein in porcine kidneys, ovaries and testes from embryonic days 35 and 60 (E35d, E60d, n = 3) to the newborn (0d, n = 4) and adult (210d, n = 3) stages, using real‐time PCR and immunofluorescent staining. Real‐time PCR analysis showed that porcine kidneys, ovaries and testes all expressed high level of WT1 mRNAs, especially in adult testes (p < 0.05 or 0.01 vs. kidney and ovary, respectively). Morphologically, characteristic microstructures of the kidneys, ovaries and testes were observed and discerned at all four stages. Immunofluorescently, WT1 expression was detected in a dynamic and context‐specific pattern during the development of these organs. Taken together, porcine urogenital organs express relatively high levels of WT1 mRNA. Dynamical and context‐specific expression profile of WT1 in these organs occurs during their development, implying its close association with the development and function of porcine kidney, ovary and testis.
The functions of FoxO transcription factors in epithelial wound healing
Authors: Miao Chaoyang , Li Yunpeng , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: November 2018

Re‐epithelialisation is a complex process that involves the migration and proliferation of keratinocytes, as well as the production of cytokines and growth factors that affect wound healing. The precise mechanisms that control the tissue repair process remain poorly understood. Recent evidence indicates that FoxO transcription factors play a crucial role in wound healing. In mammals, different isoforms of FoxO, namely, FoxO1, FoxO3, FoxO4 and FoxO6, are present; however, FoxO1 and FoxO3 primarily function in epithelial wound healing. The functions of FoxO proteins in normal wound healing are opposite of those in diabetic wound healing. On the one hand, FoxO transcription factors promote the migration of keratinocytes through up‐regulating the expression of transforming growth factor‐beta and protecting keratinocytes from oxidative stress. On the other hand, FoxO transcription factors negatively regulate some genes that are needed for re‐epithelialisation and keratinocyte migration. This review provides a summary of the functions of FoxO proteins in re‐epithelialisation.
Second to fourth digit ratio and lung function (forced vital capacity): predictors of maximum urinary flow rate after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate
Authors: Park I‐N. , Kim T. B.
Published: November 2018

Background

Maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) is usually increased after holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). However, improvements vary between patients and results regarding potential predictors of Qmax after HoLEP are inconsistent. Thus, we investigated pre‐operative variables including second to fourth digit ratio (digit ratio) and pulmonary function test (PFT) findings as potential predictors of Qmax after HoLEP.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐five consecutive patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who underwent HoLEP were enrolled. Before HoLEP, PFTs were performed and lengths of second and fourth digits of right hands were measured by a single investigator using a digital vernier caliper. To identify independent predictors of Qmax after HoLEP, univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using linear regression models.

Results

Mean age and total prostate volume for all 195 study subjects were 69.4 years and 63.3 mL respectively. Mean pre‐operative and post‐operative Qmax values were 8.7 and 26.2 mL/sec respectively. Univariate analysis showed age (r = −0.181, p = 0.014), digit ratio (r = 0.213, p = 0.004), lung function (forced vital capacity (FVC): r = 0.218, p = 0.005; forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1): r = 0.166, p = 0.034), pre‐operative Qmax (r = 0.264, p = 0.000), pre‐operative voided volume (VV) (r = 0.158, p = 0.033), and post‐operative VV (r = 0.311, p = 0.000) were associated with post‐operative Qmax, whereas multivariate analysis showed that digit ratio (β = 0.285, p = 0.001), FVC (β = 0.340, p = 0.039), and post‐operative VV (β = 0.301, p = 0.000) independently predicted post‐operative Qmax.

Conclusions

The independent predictors of Qmax after HoLEP were digit ratio and lung function (FVC) as well as post‐operative VV. This means that the higher a man's digit ratio and lung function (FVC), the higher his Qmax after HoLEP.
Mature outcomes and prognostic indices in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in Malawi: a prospective cohort
Authors: Painschab Matthew S. , Kasonkanji Edwards , Zuze Takondwa , Kaimila Bongani , Tomoka Tamiwe , Nyasosela Richard , Nyirenda Ruth , Dhungel Bal M. , Mulenga Maurice , Chikasema Maria , Tewete Blessings , Mtangwanika Asekanadziwa , Chiyoyola Sarah , Mhango Wilberforce , Chimzimu Fred , Kampani Coxcilly , Krysiak Robert , Shea Thomas C. , Montgomery Nathan D. , Fedoriw Yuri , Gopal Satish
Published: November 2018

Outcomes for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) are poorly described. We report mature data from one of the first prospective SSA cohorts. Patients aged ≥18 years with DLBCL were enrolled in Malawi 2013–2017. Participants were treated with CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone) chemotherapy and concurrent antiretroviral therapy (ART) if positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV+). Eighty‐six participants (mean age 47 years, standard deviation 13) were enrolled: 54 (63%) were male and 51 (59%) were HIV+, of whom 34 (67%) were on ART at DLBCL diagnosis. Median CD4 count was 0·113 cells × 109/l (interquartile range [IQR] 0·062–0·227) and 25 (49%) had HIV viral load <400 copies/μl. Participants received median six cycles CHOP (IQR 4–6). No patients were lost to follow‐up and the 2‐year overall survival was 38% (95% confidence interval 28–49). In multivariable analyses, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (PS) ≥2 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) >2× upper limit of normal (ULN) were associated with mortality. HIV status was not associated with mortality. A simplified prognostic model of LDH >2× ULN and PS ≥2 performed at least as well as the age‐adjusted International Prognostic Index. DLBCL can be successfully treated in SSA and outcomes did not differ by HIV status. A simplified prognostic model prognosticates well and may be easier to use in resource‐limited settings but requires validation.
Saposin C is a frequent target of paraproteins in Gaucher disease‐associated MGUS/multiple myeloma
Authors: Preuss Klaus‐Dieter , Hollak Carla E. M. , Fadle Natalie , van Oers Marinus , Regitz Evi , Pfreundschuh Michael
Published: November 2018

Patients with Gaucher disease (GD) have an increased risk of monoclonal gammopathies for which antigenic targets might play a role in their pathogenesis. Here we report the identification of saposin C (sapC) as high‐titre (1:1 000 000) target structure of 7/16 GD‐associated paraproteins. Anti‐sapC immunoglobulin (Ig) showed identity with the paraprotein Ig type and subclass in each patient that showed anti‐sapC immunoreactivity. Absorption and depletion studies completely removed the paraprotein from the sera of GD patients. No immunoreactivity against sapC was detected in healthy donors and in other plasma cell dyscrasias, demonstrating that anti‐sapC reactivity is highly restricted to GD. Several uncharacterized forms of post‐translational modified sapC were detected but their role in the pathogenesis is not clear. We confirm the frequent presence of low‐titre (1:250) anti‐lysolipid reactivities in the sera of GD patients but we could show that this immunoreactivity is not mediated by the paraprotein and is not restricted to GD patients.
Morphometry of upper cheek teeth of cave bears (Carnivora, Ursidae)
Authors: Baryshnikov Gennady F. , Puzachenko Andrey Y.
Published: November 2018

Univariate and multivariate statistics were applied to analyse the morphometrical variability of 4920 upper cheek teeth (P4, M1 and M2) of cave bears from 123 geographical sites (180 samples) of different Pliocene – Pleistocene ages. The analysed specimens included those belonging to the big cave bearsUrsus kudarensis,U. deningeri,U. spelaeus(three subspecies) andU. kanivetz(includingU. ingressus), as well as the small cave bearU. rossicus. The information‐theoretical parameters (Shannon entropy and orderliness (Von Foerster, 1960: On self‐organizing systems and their environments.InSelf‐Organizing Systems, 31–50. Pergamon Press, London) were used to estimate tooth diversity in different teeth, different taxa and in selected local chrono‐populations. Multivariate allometry coefficients (Klingenberg, 1996: Multivariate allometry.InAdvances in Morphometrics, 23‐49. Plenum Press, New York) were used to describe the relationships of different ‘parts’ of a tooth and to compare allometric patterns amongst species or selected local samples. A multivariate analysis showed a significant overlap of the size/shape parameter ranges in deningeroid and spelaeoid bears within morphological spaces. Within the cave bear lineage, the Deninger's bear has the greatest morphological diversity index (entropy) of all the teeth overall, and the lowest diversity is observed in the final taxon of this lineage –U. kanivetz(=ingressus). The P4 and M2 diversity showed multidirectional correlations with elevation above sea level amongst several ‘local’ populations of Late Pleistocene cave bears. The morphological disparities between the studied taxa are in close agreement with the distances in the available schemes of genetic differentiation based on ancient mitochondrialDNA. The split ofU. kudarensisandU. deningerihas a good bootstrap support, which corresponds to the hypothesis about their parallel evolution. The small cave bearU. rossicusis placed betweenU. arctosandU. deningeri. The phylogenetic signal is more pronounced in the variability of teeth in comparison with other skeletal remains of cave bears (cranium, mandible, or metapodial bones).
Pinning down social vulnerability in Sindh Province, Pakistan: from narratives to numbers, and back again
Authors: Mustafa Daanish , Gioli Giovanna , Memon Manzoor , Noshirwani Meher , Idris Iffat , Ahmed Nadeem
Published: November 2018

This paper reflects critically on the results of a vulnerability assessment process at the household and community scale using a quantitative vulnerabilities and capacities index. It validates a methodology for a social vulnerability assessment at the local scale in 62 villages across four agro‐ecological/livelihood zones in Sindh Province, Pakistan. The study finds that the move from vulnerability narratives to numbers improves the comparability and communicational strength of the concept. The depth and nuance of vulnerability, however, can be realised only by a return to narrative. Caution is needed, therefore: the index can be used in conjunction with qualitative assessments, but not instead of them. More substantively, the results show that vulnerability is more a function of historico‐political economic factors and cultural ethos than any biophysical changes wrought by climate. The emerging gendered vulnerability picture revealed extremes of poverty and a lack of capacity to cope with contemporary environmental and social stresses.
Are Monarchies Exceptional to the Arab Uprisings? The Resilience of Moroccan Monarchy Revisited
Authors: Koprulu Nur , Abdulmajeed Hind
Published: November 2018

With the onset of the Arab uprisings at the end of 2010 and the emergence of popular demonstrations that raised the issue of crises of legitimacy across the Arab states, the literature on democratization in the Middle East and North African (MENA) studies has taken on new dimensions recently. One of the primary theoretical debates that has surfaced in the post‐2011 era has revolved around on whether or not the demonstrations will lead to regime change or increased authoritarianism in the MENA region. One of the crucial developments of the Arab Spring has, then, been the overthrow of some long‐standing rulers like Ben Ali of Tunisia and Mubarak of Egypt, as well as the questioning of authoritarian regimes by the masses. The public protests submerged some Arab republics, but monarchies found ways to overcome the public outcry through containing the opposition. This paper, therefore, takes the monarchy of Morocco as a case study with the aim of analyzing the methods and regime‐survival strategies the regime has employed to sustain itself and consolidate power in the post‐2011 Arab uprisings era. Additionally, the role of the Justice and Development Party as an emerging threat in the postdemocratization era, and the changing nature of the party’s relations with the palace, will be addressed.