bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide identification of a regulatory mutation in BMP15 controlling prolificacy in sheep
Authors: Chantepie Louise , Bodin Loys , Sarry Julien , Woloszyn Florent , Plisson-Petit Florence , Ruesche Julien , Drouilhet Laurence , Fabre Stéphane
Published: November 2019

The search for the genetic determinism of prolificacy variability in sheep has evidenced several major mutations in genes playing a crucial role in the control of ovulation rate. In the Noire du Velay (NV) sheep population, a recent genetic study has evidenced the segregation of such a mutation named FecLL. However, based on litter size (LS) records of FecLL non-carrier ewes, the segregation of a second prolificacy major mutation was suspected in this population. In order to identify this mutation, we have combined case/control genome-wide association study with ovine 50k SNP chip genotyping, whole genome sequencing and functional analyses. A new single nucleotide polymorphism (OARX:50977717T>A, NC_019484) located on the X chromosome upstream of the BMP15 gene was evidenced highly associated with the prolificacy variability (P =1.93E-11). The variant allele was called FecXN and shown to segregate also in the Blanche du Massif Central (BMC) sheep population. In both NV and BMC, the FecXN allele frequency was estimated close to 0.10, and its effect on LS was estimated at +0.20 lamb per lambing at heterozygous state. Homozygous FecXN carrier ewes were fertile with increased prolificacy in contrast to numerous mutations affecting BMP15. At the molecular level, FecXN was shown to decrease BMP15 promoter activity and to impact BMP15 expression in oocyte. This regulatory action was proposed as the causal mechanism for the FecXN mutation to control ovulation rate and prolificacy in sheep.

Author Summary

In the genetic etiology of women infertility syndromes, a focus was done on the oocyte-expressed BMP15 and GDF9 genes harboring several mutations associated with ovarian dysfunctions. In sheep also, mutations in these two genes are known to affect the ovarian function leading to sterility or, on the opposite, increasing ovulation rate and litter size constituting the prolificacy trait genetically selected in this species. Through a genome-wide association study with the prolificacy phenotype conducted in the French Noire du Velay sheep breed, we describe a novel mutation located in the regulatory region upstream of the BMP15 gene on the X chromosome. This mutation increases litter size by +0.2 lamb per lambing at the heterozygous state, possibly through an inhibition of BMP15 expression within the oocyte. Our findings suggest a novel kind of BMP15 variant responsible for high prolificacy, in contrast to all other BMP15 variants described so far in the coding sequence.
An alternative spliceosome defined by distinct snRNAs in early zebrafish embryogenesis
Authors: Pagano Johanna F. B. , Dekker Rob J. , Ensink Wim A. , van Olst Marina , Bos Alex , van Leeuwen Selina , de Leeuw Wim C. , Nehrdich Ulrike , Spaink Herman P. , Rauwerda Han , Jonker Martijs J. , Breit Timo M.
Published: November 2019

Splicing removes intronic RNA sequences from pre-mRNA molecules and enables, by alternative splicing, the generation of multiple unique RNA molecules from a single gene. As such, splicing is an essential part of the whole translation system of a cell. The spliceosome is a ribonucleoprotein complex in which five small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) are involved; U1, U2, U4, U5, and U6. For each of these snRNAs there are variant gene copies present in a genome. Furthermore, in many eukaryotic species there is an alternative, minor spliceosome that can splice a small number of specific introns. As we previously discovered an embryogenesis-specific ribosomal system in zebrafish early embryogenesis based on variant rRNA and snoRNA expression, we hypothesized that there may also be an embryogenesis-specific spliceosome. An inventory of zebrafish snRNA genes revealed clustered and dispersed loci for all but U2 major snRNAs. For each minor spliceosome snRNA, just one gene locus was found. Since complete snRNA molecules are hard to sequence, we employed a combined PCR-sequencing approach to measure the individual snRNA-variant presence. Analysis of egg and male-adult samples revealed embryogenesis-specific and somatic-specific variants for each major snRNA. These variants have substantial sequence differences, yet none in their mRNA binding sites. Given that many of the sequence differences are found in loop structures indicate possible alternative protein binding. Altogether, with this study we established that the spliceosome is also an element of the embryogenesis-specific translation system in zebrafish.
Proteoglycan IMPG2 shapes the interphotoreceptor matrix and modulates vision
Authors: Salido Ezequiel M , Ramamurthy Visvanathan
Published: November 2019

The extracellular matrix surrounding the photoreceptor neurons, interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM) is comprised of two unique proteoglycans: IPM proteoglycan 1 and 2 (IMPG1 and IMPG2). Although the functions of the IPM are not understood, patients with mutations in IMPG1/2 develop visual deficits with subretinal material accumulation. Here, we generated mouse models lacking IMPG1/2 to decipher the role of these proteoglycans and the pathological mechanisms that lead to vision loss. IMPG1 and IMPG2 occupy specific locations in the outer retina, and both proteoglycans are fundamental for the constitution of the IPM system. Mice lacking IMPG2 show abnormal accumulation of IMPG1, and in later stages, develop subretinal lesions and reduced visual function. Interestingly, removal of IMPG1-2 showed normal retinal morphology and function, suggesting that the aberrant localization of IMPG1 causes the alterations observed in IMPG2 KO mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the role of IMPG2 in shaping the IPM, shed light on the potential mechanisms leading to subretinal lesions, and show that the secreted proteoglycans depend on the extracellular matrix environment to properly integrate into the matrix.
(E)-3-{[(2-Bromo-3-methylphenyl)imino]methyl}benzene-1,2-diol: crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Doğan Onur Erman , Dege Necmi , Ağar Erbil , Fritsky Igor O.
Published: November 2019

The title compound, C14H12BrNO2, was synthesized by the condensation reaction of 2,3-dihydroxybenzaldehyde and 2-bromo-3-methylaniline. It crystallizes in the centrosymmetric triclinic space group P\overline{1}. The configuration about the C=N bond is E. The dihedral angle between the planes of the 5-(2-bromo-3-methylphenyl ring and the catechol ring is 2.80 (17)°. In the crystal, O—H...O hydrogen-bond interactions consolidate the crystal packing.
Structural basis for the diversity of the mechanism of nucleotide hydrolysis by the aminoglycoside-2′′-phosphotransferases
Authors: Smith Clyde A. , Toth Marta , Stewart Nichole K. , Maltz Lauren , Vakulenko Sergei B.
Published: November 2019

Aminoglycoside phosphotransferases (APHs) are one of three families of aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes that confer high-level resistance to the aminoglycoside antibiotics via enzymatic modification. This has now rendered many clinically important drugs almost obsolete. The APHs specifically phosphorylate hydroxyl groups on the aminoglycosides using a nucleotide triphosphate as the phosphate donor. The APH(2′′) family comprises four distinct members, isolated primarily from Enterococcus sp., which vary in their substrate specificities and also in their preference for the phosphate donor (ATP or GTP). The structure of the ternary complex of APH(2′′)-IIIa with GDP and kanamycin was solved at 1.34 Å resolution and was compared with substrate-bound structures of APH(2′′)-Ia, APH(2′′)-IIa and APH(2′′)-IVa. In contrast to the case for APH(2′′)-Ia, where it was proposed that the enzyme-mediated hydrolysis of GTP is regulated by conformational changes in its N-terminal domain upon GTP binding, APH(2′′)-IIa, APH(2′′)-IIIa and APH(2′′)-IVa show no such regulatory mechanism, primarily owing to structural differences in the N-terminal domains of these enzymes.
Fractional calculus-based analysis of soil electrical properties
Authors: Liang Guishu , Yang Yulan
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze soil electrical properties based on fractional calculus theory due to the fact that the frequency dependence of soil electrical parameters at high frequencies exhibits a fractional effect. In addition, for the fractional-order formulation, this paper aims to provide a more accurate numerical algorithm for solving the fractional differential equations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes the frequency-dependence of soil electrical properties based on fractional calculus theory. A collocation method based on the Puiseux series is proposed to solve fractional differential equations.

Findings

The algorithm proposed in this paper can be used to solve fractional differential equations of arbitrary order, especially for 0.5th-order equations, obtaining accurate numerical solutions. Calculating the impact response of the grounding electrode based on the fractional calculus theory can obtain a more accurate result.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an algorithm for solving fractional differential equations of arbitrary order, especially for 0.5th-order equations. Using fractional calculus theory to analyze the frequency-dependent effect of soil electrical properties, provides a new idea for ground-related transient calculation.
A parallel multi-fidelity optimization approach in induction hardening
Authors: Baldan Marco , Nikanorov Alexander , Nacke Bernard
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Reliable modeling of induction hardening requires a multi-physical approach, which makes it time-consuming. In designing an induction hardening system, combining such model with an optimization technique allows managing a high number of design variables. However, this could lead to a tremendous overall computational cost. This paper aims to reduce the computational time of an optimal design problem by making use of multi-fidelity modeling and parallel computing.

Design/methodology/approach

In the multi-fidelity framework, the “high-fidelity” model couples the electromagnetic, thermal and metallurgical fields. It predicts the phase transformations during both the heating and cooling stages. The “low-fidelity” model is instead limited to the heating step. Its inaccuracy is counterbalanced by its cheapness, which makes it suitable for exploring the design space in optimization. Then, the use of co-Kriging allows merging information from different fidelity models and predicting good design candidates. Field evaluations of both models occur in parallel.

Findings

In the design of an induction heating system, the synergy between the “high-fidelity” and “low-fidelity” model, together with use of surrogates and parallel computing could reduce up to one order of magnitude the overall computational cost.

Practical implications

On one hand, multi-physical modeling of induction hardening implies a better understanding of the process, resulting in further potential process improvements. On the other hand, the optimization technique could be applied to many other computationally intensive real-life problems.

Originality/value

This paper highlights how parallel multi-fidelity optimization could be used in designing an induction hardening system.
Optimization of the shape of an induction heating device in the presence of skin effect in the coils
Authors: Aiello Giovanni , Alfonzetti Salvatore , Rizzo Santi Agatino , Salerno Nunzio
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The optimization of the cross section of an axisymmetric induction heating device is performed by means of genetic algorithms (GAs).

Design/methodology/approach

The hybrid finite element method–Dirichlet boundary condition iteration method is used to deal with the unbounded nature of the field. The formulation of the electromagnetic problems takes into account skin and proximity effects in the source currents.

Findings

The convergence of GAs towards the optimum is very fast, since less than a thousand analyses have been necessary.

Originality/value

A special derivation of the finite element global system is presented which allows us to save computing time.
Men and masculinities in a changing world: (de)legitimizing gender ideals in advertising
Authors: Zayer Linda Tuncay , McGrath Mary Ann , Castro-González Pilar
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Conversations surrounding gender are sweeping the globe as the voices and lived experiences of people are being heard and shared at unprecedented rates. Discourses about gender in advertising are embedded in cultural narratives and legitimatized by a broad system of institutional structures and actors, at both macro and micro/consumer levels. This study aims to explore how consumers (one type of institutional actor) engage in legitimizing/delegitimizing messages of gender in the marketplace.

Design/methodology/approach

This research draws on a qualitative approach, specifically the use of in-depth interviews with men across three global contexts.

Findings

This research identifies the ways in which men engage in (de)legitimizing messages of masculinity in advertising such as reiteration, reframing, ascribing to alternate logics and prioritizing personal norms.

Research limitations/implications

Across three contexts, this research theorizes the (de)legitimization of gender ideals in advertising and situates consumer narratives within broader institutional forces, providing a holistic understanding of the phenomenon.

Practical implications

Understanding the ways in which individuals either accept or reject gendered ideals in media aids advertising and marketing professionals in tailoring messages that resonate with audiences.

Social implications

Understanding how individuals negotiate their gender and the messages they deem as legitimate are crucial to understanding gender issues related to consumer welfare and public policy.

Originality/value

While research has examined advertising practitioners’ views regarding gender from an institutional perspective, research on how consumers construct and maintain the legitimacy of gendered messages in the marketplace is scarce. This research theorizes and illustrates the (de)legitimization of gender ideals across three contexts.
Learning culture in a Chinese SME: the unique role of work-family enrichment
Authors: Xie Lei , Dirani Khalil M. , Beyerlein Michael , Qiu Shaoping
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Learning and development are critical to a business’s success. This paper aims to focus on organizational factors at multiple organizational levels that facilitate learning culture in a small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) in northwestern China.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is qualitative in nature. A single case study method is used to explore an SME’s organizational factors that facilitate learning culture.

Findings

This paper categorizes the organizational factors into seven dimensions: shared vision, creating continuous learning opportunities, informal learning that promotes inquiry and dialogue, collaboration and team learning, knowledge management systems, work–family enrichment and encouragement and support. This paper also compares the findings with learning culture models from Western research.

Research limitations/implications

Chinese culture has far-reaching and fundamental effects on many East Asian countries and regions. For SMEs in similar cultural settings with a collectivist orientation, future research may focus on the effect of the work–family enrichment on learning culture.

Originality/value

Work–family enrichment was found to be an important factor that influences learning effectiveness in this Chinese small business based on traditional values in Chinese culture.
Hotel revenue management for the transient segment: taxonomy-based research
Authors: Baker Tim , Eziz Aysajan , Harrington Robert J.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to (1) organize the open literature on hotel revenue management systems, (2) compare practitioner systems in terms of functionality and (3) integrate (1)-(2) into research stream recommendations for the open literature with an empirical focus.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use Nickerson’s taxonomy development method from the field of information systems to build the taxonomy.

Findings

New forecasting areas include developing a metric for the degree of strategic fit of a hotel’s pricing strategy and using it in conjunction with quantifications of online reviews for predictions. New price optimization avenues include determining whether a lack of congruence between customer perceptions of fairness and trust and pricing history has a detrimental effect on overall hotel performance and determining which combinations of flexible products, decision-maker risk aversion, nonparametric forecasting and reference effect optimization features work best in which situations.

Originality/value

This is the first study to combine vendor activities outside the technical realms of forecasting and price optimization with an emphasis on the choice modeling technical framework. This study points to several promising studies using qualitative methods, action research and design science.
Disaster risk management approaches in construction and built environment
Authors: Tavakoli Taba Seyedamir , Mojtahedi Mohammad , Newton Sidney
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Currently there is no analysis of the development of disaster risk management literature in the construction and built environment context, the changes in its research paradigms over time and the role of different key players in the advance of its current body of knowledge. This study aims to address that gap by investigating the longitudinal data of disaster risk management literature published over the past three decades.

Design/methodology/approach

A social network analysis approach is used in this study to show the overall development of the field and specifically the impact of research collaborations between different organisations and countries on research productivity.

Findings

The results indicate that the focus of disaster risk management research in the built environment context is heavily biased towards reactive strategies (response and recovery) over proactive strategies (mitigation and preparedness). The findings also demonstrate that collaboration between disaster risk management researchers has a significant influence on their research productivity.

Originality/value

The findings from this study should be of value to researchers, policymakers and academic strategists. This study for the first time shows the ability of the social networks paradigm to reveal frailties in research connections in the field of disaster risk management in construction and built environment and highlights where networking strategies are needed.
Coastal flood alleviation through management interventions under changing climate conditions
Authors: Bennett William George , Karunarathna Harshinie
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Coastal flooding has disastrous consequences on people, infrastructure, properties and the environment. Increasing flood risk as a result of global climate change is a significant concern both within the UK and globally. To counter any potential increase in future flooding, a range of potential management options are being considered. This study aims to explore future coastal management practice for flood alleviation, incorporating the influence of climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

The Taf estuary in South West Wales, a macro-tidal estuary which has a history of coastal flooding, was chosen as the case study in this paper to investigate the impact of coastal management interventions such as construction of hard defences, managed realignment or altering land use of affiliated ecosystems such as salt marshes on the complex hydrodynamics and hence flooding of the surrounding areas of the estuary. The study was carried out using a numerical hydrodynamic model of the Taf estuary, developed using the process-based Delft3D modelling software.

Findings

The role of the selected management interventions on coastal flooding was investigated using an extreme storm condition, both with and without the impact of future sea level rise. The results highlight the scale of the effect of sea level rise, with the selected management interventions revealing that minimising the increase in flooding in future requires careful consideration of the available options.

Originality/value

This paper explores the highlighted role of coastal management practice in future with the influence of climate change to study how effective alternative methods can be for flood alleviation.
Surface development by reinforcing nano-composites during friction stir processing – a review
Authors: I. Bhavya Swathi , L. Suvarna Raju , Ramulu Perumalla Janaki
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Friction stir processing (FSP) is overviewed with the process variables, along with the thermal aspect of different metals.

Design/methodology/approach

With its inbuilt advantages, FSP is used to reduce the failure in the structural integrity of the body panels of automobiles, airplanes and lashing rails. FSP has excellent process ability and surface treatability with good corrosion resistance and high strength at elevated temperatures. Process parameters such as rotation speed of the tool, traverse speed, tool tilt angle, groove design, volume fraction and increase in number of tool passes should be considered for generating a processed and defect-free surface of the workpiece.

Findings

FSP process is used for modifying the surface by reinforcement of composites to improve the mechanical properties and results in the ultrafine grain refinement of microstructure. FSP uses the frictional heat and mechanical deformation for achieving the maximum performance using the low-cost tool; the production time is also very less.

Originality/value

100
Assessment of health and safety culture maturity in the construction industry in developing economies
Authors: Williams Justice , Fugar Frank , Adinyira Emmanuel
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The degree to which accidents happen or are prevented in any organisation is the function of both the health and safety culture and the safety culture maturity level of the organisation. Therefore, this paper aims to determine the state of health and safety culture in the construction industry in developing economies and to assess their category on the safety maturity ladder using the Ghanaian construction industry as an example. This is to help construction companies in developing countries become conscious of the state of health and safety in the industry so they can be motivated to improve along the ladder.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 250 contractors made up of 155 building contractor,s and 95 road contractors took part in the survey. The sample size was determined by Yamane’s (1967) formula with stratified simple random sampling technique adopted in selecting the companies in the survey. This paper also uses (Guttman Scale) Scalogram analysis to measure the state of health and safety culture in the Ghanaian construction industry.

Findings

The results show that health and safety culture of the Ghanaian construction industry is at the first level, the pathological stage. Even though Ghanaian contractors have health and safety policies and codes of conduct in place, safety is not seen as a key business risk. Consequently, management and most frontline staff do not emphasise the importance of integration of safety measures in the various activities on the site. Thus, safety is not seen as unavoidable and a part of the construction activity.

Practical implications

The findings of this study inform state authorities, consultants and contractors of areas that they need to focus more on improving health and safety culture in developing countries. This would go a long way in protecting construction workers in the industry.

Originality/value

This study, to the best of the authors’ current knowledge, is the first of its kind in the Ghanaian construction industry. The study brings to the fore the actual state of health and safety in the construction industry in developing countries such as Ghana. The value of the findings lies in the fact that it will provide the motivation for construction companies in developing countries to develop a commitment to safety, and to provide appropriate and effective safety improvement techniques to progress to the subsequent stages of the safety culture maturity ladder.
Developing a model for investigating the impact of cloud-based systems on green supply chain management
Authors: Shirzad Talatappeh Sahra , Lakzi Ali
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Cloud computing is one of the technologies that improves performance and reduces costs in companies through flexible and easy access to computational resources. Supply chain management is one of the widespread and unlimited computing resources. Applying cloud computing to the green supply chain will eliminate constraints and speed up the implementation of various chain processes. Therefore, this paper aims to present a model and framework for assessing the impact of cloud computing on green supply chain management, which improves the performance of the resulting system in comparison with previous systems.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a self-made questionnaire containing 38 questions was used to collect data. The questions were compiled based on the variables identified in previous studies. Besides, the answers to the questions were based on the five-point Likert scale (strongly disagree, disagree, no opinion, agree and strongly agree). By reviewing the subject literature, the factors that affect the green supply chain management have been identified, which include cost of services, user-friendly software, energy consumption, subscription and collaboration capabilities and self-service ability.

Findings

The findings confirmed the fitness of the proposed model and showed the impact of cloud computing on green supply chain management. In addition, results showed that considered variables (service cost, user-friendly applications, energy consumption, sharing and collaboration and self-service) significantly affect the success management of green supply chain.

Practical implications

The results of this research show that, to help effective management of the complexity of the supply chain, many companies have adopted an advanced IT strategy to increase the flow of information and, in turn, to increase their competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The development of a cloud computing-based green supply chain management system can lead to improved system performance compared to traditional systems, which can revolutionize a wide range of industries and businesses by clarification of businesses and making the processes smart. It can also reduce costs and improve performance of micro- and macro-business firms. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to provide a model for investigating the impact of cloud-based IT systems on green supply chain management.
Does family affect financial outcomes and psychological biases? Evidence from small investors in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Mohammad Tariqul Islam , Tan Siow-Hooi
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose this paper is to investigate whether family affects financial outcomes and psychological biases in an under-researched context, Bangladeshi small investors.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the stated research objective, the survey data were collected from 223 small investors from brokerage houses in Dhaka and estimated using regression analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that learning from parents, discussion with parents about financial issues and father’s education have the strongest impact on financial outcomes (i.e. financial wealth holding, portfolio value, investment strategy, technical indicator, past perceived and expected portfolio performance) and psychological biases (i.e. herding, risk tolerance and better-than-average). Furthermore, spouse’s education, parental income, marital status and family size explain financial outcomes and psychological biases, but to a lesser extent.

Practical implications

The implications have been discussed for small investors and the family’s role in resulting positive financial outcomes and avoid biases.

Originality/value

This is the first study to take into account a set of family background variables influencing various financial outcomes and psychological biases in the context of Bangladesh.
Brand love measurement scale development: an inter-cultural analysis
Authors: Pontinha Vasco M. , Coelho do Vale Rita
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to develop a brand love measurement scale, adopting an etic approach and testing for differences on how consumers experience brand love across different cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

An integrative model of brand love was first developed and then data was collected through an online survey (N = 322) in two countries (the USA and Portugal) with different characteristics (individualistic vs collectivistic). A structural equation model method was followed, including an exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and multi-group analysis to test the set of hypotheses.

Findings

As proposed in the initial model, results indicate that brand love is the result of a dynamic interaction between five integrated emotional dimensions: passionate driven behavior, commitment, affection and connection, consumer-brand identification and brand relationship. The multi-group analysis across countries suggests that the socio-cultural context, namely, the collectivistic vs individualistic nature of the sample, significantly influences the brand love experience.

Originality/value

This is the first brand love measurement scale developed from an etic perspective, encompassing complex and dynamic emotional dimensions that in combination, form the brand love experience. Results indicate that the brand love experience may significantly differ from culture to culture, pointing out the most relevant dimensions in each of the socio-cultural contexts that better predict brand love and its consequences. These findings are particularly relevant for practitioners working on global brand management.
Fashion brands are engaging the millennials: a moderated-mediation model of customer-brand engagement, participation, and involvement
Authors: Samala Nagaraj , Katkam Bharath Shashanka
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Millennial generation is fashion inclined, interactive and informative social beings. They are very conscious of the brands they wear. Millennia seek, share, inform and exchange fashion brand-related information on social networking sites (SNS). Marketers are subsequently engaging the young prospects and customers to keep up or improve enthusiasm and participation. The study attempts to investigate the role of customer-brand engagement (CBE) of millennials with fashion brands on SNS. The study simultaneously tests the moderating role of involvement levels affecting participation and CBE leading to brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The study followed a purposive sample by collecting 466 respondents from the graduate students of a university. The study adopted structural equation modelling (SEM) and Hayes process macros in SPSS 20.0 to test the moderated-mediation model.

Findings

The study confirms the mediating role of CBE in the relationship between participation and brand loyalty. Different degrees of involvement moderate the mediating role of CBE. Higher levels of involvement enhance the positive effect of participation on CBE.

Originality/value

The study is first of its kind to investigate the role of CBE and involvement among the millennial group. It also contributes to the related theories like service-dominant logic, social exchange theory and consumer culture theory regarding a unique population group, which is promising and profitable.
Plasmid‐chromosome cross‐talks
Authors: Vial Ludovic , Hommais Florence
Published: November 2019

Plasmids can be acquired by recipient bacteria at a significant cost while conferring them advantageous traits. To counterbalance the costs of plasmid carriage, both plasmids and host bacteria have developed a tight regulatory network that may involve a cross‐talk between the chromosome and the plasmids. Although plasmid regulation by chromosomal regulators is generally well known, chromosome regulation by plasmid has been far less investigated. Yet, a growing number of studies have highlighted an impact of plasmids on their host bacteria. Here, we describe the plasmid–chromosome cross‐talk from the plasmid point of view. We summarize data about the chromosomal adaptive mutations generated by plasmid carriage; the impact of the loss of a domesticated plasmid or the gain of a new plasmid. Then, we present the control of plasmid‐encoded regulators on chromosomal gene expression. The involvement of regulators homologous to chromosome‐encoded proteins is illustrated by the H‐NS‐like proteins, and by the Rap‐Phr system. Finally, plasmid‐specific regulators of chromosomal gene expression are presented, which highlight the involvement of transcription factors and sRNAs. A comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms that allow a given plasmid to impact the chromosome of bacterium will help to understand the tight cross‐talk between plasmids and the chromosome.
Spatial structure in the “Plastisphere”: Molecular resources for imaging microscopic communities on plastic marine debris
Authors: Schlundt Cathleen , Mark Welch Jessica L. , Knochel Anna M. , Zettler Erik R. , Amaral‐Zettler Linda A.
Published: November 2019

Plastic marine debris (PMD) affects spatial scales of life from microbes to whales. However, understanding interactions between plastic and microbes in the “Plastisphere”—the thin layer of life on the surface of PMD—has been technology‐limited. Research into microbe–microbe and microbe–substrate interactions requires knowledge of community phylogenetic composition but also tools to visualize spatial distributions of intact microbial biofilm communities. We developed a CLASI‐FISH (combinatorial labelling and spectral imaging – fluorescence in situ hybridization) method using confocal microscopy to study Plastisphere communities. We created a probe set consisting of three existing phylogenetic probes (targeting all Bacteria, Alpha‐, and Gammaproteobacteria) and four newly designed probes (targeting Bacteroidetes, Vibrionaceae, Rhodobacteraceae and Alteromonadaceae) labelled with a total of seven fluorophores and validated this probe set using pure cultures. Our nested probe set strategy increases confidence in taxonomic identification because targets are confirmed with two or more probes, reducing false positives. We simultaneously identified and visualized these taxa and their spatial distribution within the microbial biofilms on polyethylene samples in colonization time series experiments in coastal environments from three different biogeographical regions. Comparing the relative abundance of 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data with cell‐count abundance data retrieved from the microscope images of the same samples showed a good agreement in bacterial composition. Microbial communities were heterogeneous, with direct spatial relationships between bacteria, cyanobacteria and eukaryotes such as diatoms but also micro‐metazoa. Our research provides a valuable resource to investigate biofilm development, succession and associations between specific microscopic taxa at micrometre scales.
Suicide, Alcohol Intoxication, and Age Among Whites and American Indians/Alaskan Natives
Authors: Caetano Raul , Kaplan Mark S. , Kerr William , McFarland Bentson H. , Giesbrecht Norman , Kaplan Zoe
Published: November 2019

Background

Among American Indians/Alaskan Natives (AI/ANs), suicides are disproportionately high among those younger than 40 years of age. This paper examines suicide and alcohol intoxication (postmortem BAC ≥ 0.08 g/dl) by age among Whites and AI/ANs to better understand the reasons for the high rate of suicide among AI/ANs for those younger than 40.

Methods

Data come from the restricted 2003 to 2016 National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS), with postmortem information on 79,150 White and AI/AN suicide decedents of both genders who had a BAC test in 32 states of the United States.

Results

Among Whites, 39.3% of decedents legally intoxicated are younger than 40 years of age, while among AI/ANs the proportion is 72.9% (p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression with data divided by age shows that in the 18 to 39 age group, AI/ANs are about 2 times more likely than Whites to have a postmortem BAC ≥ 0.08. Veteran status compared to nonveteran, and history of alcohol problems prior to suicide were also associated with BAC ≥ 0.08. Suicide methods other than by firearm and a report of the presence of 2 or more suicide precipitating circumstances were protective against BAC ≥ 0.08. Results for the age group 40 years of age and older mirror those for the younger group with 1 exception: Race/ethnicity was not associated with BAC level.

Conclusions

The proportion of suicide decedents with a BAC ≥ 0.08 is higher among AI/ANs than Whites, especially among those 18 to 39 years of age. However, acute alcohol intoxication does not fully explain differences in suicide age structure between AI/ANs and Whites.
Tetrahydrobiopterin Restores Microvascular Dysfunction in Young Adult Binge Drinkers
Authors: Hwang Chueh‐Lung , Bian Jing‐Tan , Thur Laurel A. , Peters Tara A. , Piano Mariann R. , Phillips Shane A.
Published: November 2019

Background

Repeated binge drinking is associated with reduced microvascular function. However, microvascular responses to pathophysiological stimulus such as high pressure as well as potential mechanisms that underlie binge‐induced microvascular dysfunction are unknown. Therefore, using an ex vivo experimental model, we examined microvascular responses following a brief period of high intraluminal pressure in isolated arterioles from young adults who have a history of repeated binge drinking. In addition, we examined whether the application of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase cofactor, tetrahydrobiopterin, would restore microvascular function in response to flow and high intraluminal pressure in young adult binge drinkers.

Methods

Isolated subcutaneous adipose arterioles were obtained from young adult binge drinkers (BD; n = 14), moderate drinkers (MODs; n = 10), and alcohol abstainers (ABs; n = 12; mean age: 23.7 ± 0.5 years; and body mass index: 23.4 ± 0.4 kg/m2). Arteriolar flow‐induced dilation (FID, pressure gradient: ∆10 to 100 cm H2O) was measured before and after acute high intraluminal pressure with and without tetrahydrobiopterin.

Results

Before high pressure, FID at Δ60 and Δ100 cm H2O pressure gradient in BDs was 14% lower and 18% lower, respectively, than ABs (p < 0.05), while MODs and ABs had similar FID across all pressure gradients (p ≥ 0.2). After high pressure, FID in BDs was further reduced by 10% (p < 0.0005) and this impairment was ameliorated by the treatment of tetrahydrobiopterin (4 to 26% higher, p < 0.005). In contrast, FID after high pressure did not change in MODs and ABs (p ≥ 0.5).

Conclusions

Microvascular dysfunction in young adult binge drinkers may be exacerbated with acute pathophysiological stimulus. These binge‐induced dysfunctions may be reversed by tetrahydrobiopterin, which suggests a role of oxidative stress and/or uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase in binge drinking.
A history of opioid exposure in females increases the risk of metabolic disorders in their future male offspring
Authors: Toorie Anika M. , Vassoler Fair M. , Qu Fangfang , Schonhoff Christopher M. , Bradburn Steven , Murgatroyd Christopher A. , Slonim Donna K. , Byrnes Elizabeth M.
Published: November 2019

Worldwide consumption of opioids remains at historic levels. Preclinical studies report intergenerational effects on the endogenous opioid system of future progeny following preconception morphine exposure. Given the role of endogenous opioids in energy homeostasis, such effects could impact metabolism in the next generation. Thus, we examined diet‐induced modifications in F1 male progeny of morphine‐exposed female rats (MORF1). When fed a high fat‐sugar diet (FSD) for 6 weeks, MORF1 males display features of emerging metabolic syndrome; they consume more food, gain more weight, and develop fasting‐induced hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. In the hypothalamus, proteins involved in energy homeostasis are modified and RNA sequencing revealed down‐regulation of genes associated with neuronal plasticity, coupled with up‐regulation of genes associated with immune, inflammatory, and metabolic processes that are specific to FSD‐maintained MORF1 males. Thus, limited preconception morphine exposure in female rats increases the risk of metabolic syndrome/type 2 diabetes in the next generation.
Prevailing head position to one side in early infancy—A population‐based study
Authors: Straathof Elisabeth J. M. , Heineman Kirsten R. , Hamer Elisa G. , Hadders‐Algra Mijna
Published: November 2019

Aim

To determine the prevalence of prevailing head position to one side (PHP) in young infants and to evaluate its associations with reaching performance, neurological condition and perinatal and socio‐economic factors.

Methods

Observational study in 500 infants (273 boys) 2‐6 months corrected age, representative of the Dutch population (median gestational age 39.7 weeks (27‐42); birthweight 3438 g (1120‐4950). Prevailing head position to one side and reaching performance were assessed with the Infant Motor Profile; neurological condition with the Standardized Infant NeuroDevelopmental Assessment. Socio‐economic information and perinatal information were obtained by questionnaire and medical records. Associations were analysed with uni‐ and multivariable statistics.

Results

Prevailing head position to one side was observed in 100 infants (20%), and its prevalence decreased from 49% at 2 months to 0% at 6 months. Only in infants aged 4‐5 months PHP was significantly associated with worse reaching and an at‐risk neurological score. Prevailing head position to one side was weakly associated with prenatal substance exposure, post‐natal admission to a paediatric ward and paternal native Dutch background.

Conclusion

Prevailing head position to one side at 2‐3 months is a frequently occurring sign with limited clinical significance. Yet, PHP at 4‐5 months is associated with a worse functional and neurological condition. Therefore, PHP at 4‐5 months could serve as a red flag indicating possible challenges in later development.
Operationalizing stakeholder theory and prioritizing ethics in MBA programs: The utility of a trust approach
Authors: Hansen S. Duane , Mouritsen Matthew , Davis James H. , Noack David
Published: November 2019

At a time when some are questioning the relevancy of business education in general, others are now asking whether MBA programs should be blamed for society’s declining trust in business and the numerous corporate ethical failures of recent decades. Whether the full blame lies with business schools or not, MBA instructors are actively seeking more effective ways to help students adopt more practical and ethical managerial paradigms. Because trust theory is simple and robust and outlines the basic mental processes that drive economic exchange while simultaneously prioritizing ethical behavior, in this article, we argue that it is distinctively suited to operationalize stakeholder theory in the classroom, providing MBA students with both a principled and a practical foundation or thematic platform for their MBA coursework and subsequent careers. We also discuss potential challenges and limitations and provide recommendations for future research.
Violinists, demandingness, and the impairment argument against abortion
Authors: Crummett Dustin
Published: November 2019

The ‘impairment argument’ against abortion developed by Perry Hendricks aims to derive the wrongness of abortion from the wrongness of causing foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Hendricks endorses an ‘impairment principle’, which states that, if it is wrong to inflict an impairment of a certain degree on an organism, then, ceteris paribus, it is also wrong to inflict a more severe impairment on that organism. Causing FAS is wrong in virtue of the impairment it inflicts. But abortion inflicts an even more severe impairment (death), and so, ceteris paribus, is also wrong. Notably, Hendricks thinks that this argument does not require the claim that the foetus is a person. Here, I respond to Hendricks by arguing that the ceteris paribus clause of the impairment principle is not met in ordinary cases of pregnancy. Carrying an unwanted pregnancy to term is much more burdensome than is refraining from excessive drinking for nine months. This provides a pro tanto justification for obtaining an abortion that does not apply to causing FAS. If the foetus is not a person, it seems fairly clear to me that this justification is strong enough to render abortion permissible. Hendricks is therefore incorrect in claiming that the impairment argument can go without claims concerning foetal personhood. If the foetus is a person, then whether burdensomeness justifies abortion depends on certain questions relating to Thomson’s famous violinist argument. I will not attempt to answer those. But anyone who is otherwise sympathetic to Thomson’s argument should not be moved by the impairment argument.
Artificial womb technology and clinical translation: Innovative treatment or medical research?
Authors: Romanis Elizabeth Chloe
Published: November 2019

In 2017 and 2019, two research teams claimed ‘proof of principle’ for artificial womb technology (AWT). AWT has long been a subject of speculation in bioethical literature, with broad consensus that it is a welcome development. Despite this, little attention is afforded to more immediate ethical problems in the development of AWT, particularly as an alternative to neonatal intensive care. To start this conversation, I consider whether experimental AWT is innovative treatment or medical research. The research–treatment distinction, pervasive in regulation worldwide, is intended to isolate research activities and subject them to a greater degree of oversight. I argue that there is a tendency in the literature to conceptualize AWT for partial ectogenesis as innovative treatment. However, there are sufficiently serious ethical concerns with experimental AWT that mean that it must not be first used on humans on the basis that it is a ‘beneficial treatment’. First, I outline the prospects for translation of AWT animal studies into treatment for human preterms. Second, I challenge the conceptualizations of experimental AWT as innovative treatment. It must be considered medical research to reflect the investigatory nature of the process and guarantee sufficient protections for subjects. Identifying that AWT is research is crucial in formulating further ethico‐legal questions regarding the experimental use of AWT. Third, I demonstrate that clinical trials will be a necessary part of the clinical translation of AWT because of requirements laid out by regulators. I consider the justification for clinical trials and highlight some of the crucial ethical questions about the conditions under which they should proceed.