bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dopamine transporter trafficking and Rit2 GTPase: Mechanism of action and in vivo impact
Authors: Fagan Rita R. , Kearney Patrick J. , Sweeney Carolyn G. , Luethi Dino , Schoot Uiterkamp Florianne E. , Schicker Klaus , Alejandro Brian S. , O’Connor Lauren C. , Sitte Harald H. , Melikian Haley E.
Published: July 2019

Following its evoked release, DA signaling is rapidly terminated by presynaptic reuptake, mediated by the cocaine-sensitive DAT. DAT surface availability is dynamically regulated by endocytic trafficking, and direct PKC activation acutely diminishes DAT surface expression by accelerating DAT internalization. Previous cell line studies demonstrated that PKC-stimulated DAT endocytosis requires both Ack1 inactivation, which releases a DAT-specific endocytic brake, and the neuronal GTPase, Rit2, which binds DAT. However, it is unknown whether Rit2 is required for PKC-stimulated DAT endocytosis in DAergic terminals, or whether there are region- and/or sex-dependent differences in PKC-stimulated DAT trafficking. Moreover, the mechanisms by which Rit2 controls PKC-stimulated DAT endocytosis are unknown. Here, we directly examined these important questions. Ex vivo studies revealed that PKC activation acutely decreased DAT surface expression selectively in ventral, but not dorsal, striatum. AAV-mediated, conditional Rit2 knockdown in DAergic neurons impacted baseline DAT surface:intracellular distribution in DAergic terminals from female ventral, but not dorsal, striatum. Further, Rit2 was required for PKC-stimulated DAT internalization in both male and female ventral striatum. FRET and surface pulldown studies in cell lines revealed that PKC activation drives DAT-Rit2 surface dissociation, and that the DAT N-terminus is required for both PKC-mediated DAT-Rit2 dissociation and DAT internalization. Finally, we found that Rit2 and Ack1 independently converge on DAT to facilitate PKC-stimulated DAT endocytosis. Together, our data provide greater insight into mechanisms that mediate PKC-regulated DAT internalization, and reveal unexpected region-specific differences in PKC-stimulated DAT trafficking in bona fide DAergic terminals.
Sleep spindles mediate hippocampal-neocortical coupling during sharp-wave ripples
Authors: Ngo Hong-Viet. V. , Fell Juergen , Staresina Bernhard P.
Published: July 2019

Sleep is pivotal for the consolidation of memories [1]. According to two-stage accounts, experiences are temporarily stored in the hippocampus and gradually translocated to neocortical sites during non-rapid-eye-movement (NREM) sleep [2,3]. Mechanistically, information transfer is thought to rely on interactions between thalamocortical spindles and hippocampal ripples. In particular, spindles may open precisely-timed communication channels, across which reactivation patterns may travel between the hippocampus and cortical target sites when ripples occur. To test this hypothesis, we first derived time-frequency representations (TFRs) in hippocampus (HIPP) and at scalp electrode Cz (neocortex, NC) time-locked to individual hippocampal ripple events. Compared to matched ripple-free intervals, results revealed a concurrent increase in spindle power both in HIPP and NC. As revealed by coherence analysis, hippocampal-neocortical coupling was indeed enhanced in the spindle band around ripples. Finally, we examined the directionality of spindle coupling and observed a strong driving effect from NC to HIPP. Specifically, ∼250 ms prior to the HIPP ripple, NC spindles emerge and entrain HIPP spindles. Both regions then remain synchronised until ∼500 ms after the ripple. Consistent with recent rodent work, these findings suggest that active consolidation is initiated by neocortex and draws on neocortical-hippocampal-neocortical reactivation loops [4], with a role of sleep spindles in mediating this process.
Three Dimensional Root CT Segmentation using Multi-Resolution Encoder-Decoder Networks
Authors: Soltaninejad Mohammadreza , Sturrock Craig J. , Griffiths Marcus , Pridmore Tony P. , Pound Michael P.
Published: July 2019

We address the complex problem of reliably segmenting root structure from soil in X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) images. We utilise a deep learning approach, and propose a state-of-the-art multi-resolution architecture based on encoder-decoders. While previous work in encoder-decoders implies the use of multiple resolutions simply by downsampling and upsampling images, we make this process explicit, with branches of the network tasked separately with obtaining local high-resolution segmentation, and wider low-resolution contextual information. The complete network is a memory efficient implementation that is still able to resolve small root detail in large volumetric images. We evaluate our approach by comparing against a number of different encoder-decoder based architectures from the literature, as well as a popular existing image analysis tool designed for root CT segmentation. We show qualitatively and quantitatively that a multi-resolution approach offers substantial accuracy improvements over a both a small receptive field size in a deep network, or a larger receptive field in a shallower network. We obtain a Dice score of 0.59 compared with 0.41 for the closest competing method. We then further improve performance using an incremental learning approach, in which failures in the original network are used to generate harder negative training examples. Results of this process raise the precision of the network, and improve the Dice score to 0.66. Our proposed method requires no user interaction, is fully automatic, and identifies large and fine root material throughout the whole volume. The 3D segmented output of our method is well-connected, allowing the recovery of structured representations of root system architecture, and so may be successfully utilised in root phenotyping.
The impact of different forms of organisational support and work–life balance in Chile and Colombia
Authors: Idrovo Sandra , Bosch María José
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how family-supportive supervisor behaviour (FSSB) and organisational work–family policies (WFP) influence turnover intention (TI), satisfaction with work–family balance (SWFB) and prosocial motivation (PSM) in employees in organisations in the private sector in Colombia and Chile. It also explores whether a family -friendly organisational culture (FFOC) moderates this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire (the International Family-Responsible Employed Index) was used to survey 486 employees (Chile: 255, Colombia: 231). The questionnaire consisted of three main sections: independent variables (WFP, FSSB, (FFOC and individual characteristics); dependent variables (organisational outcomes of TI, loyalty and commitment, and individual outcomes of health, WFE, SWFB, PSM and intrinsic); and demographic indicators. Structural equation modelling was used to test the possibility of comparing both countries and the model proposed.

Findings

Results show a negative relationship between FSSB and TI, and a positive relationship between FSSB and SWFB and PSM. There are no significant differences among countries, except when looking at PSM. FFOC moderates the relationships between FSSB and TI, between policies and FSSB and SWFB and between FSSB and PSM. It also has a direct effect on PSM.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first to offer comparative data from organisations and managers in Latin American countries at the work–family interface. It also contributes to the literature, offering results partly consistent with studies in Anglo–Saxon countries.
Selected quality traits of table eggs depending on storage time and temperature
Authors: Brodacki Antoni , Batkowska Justyna , Drabik Kamil , Chabroszewska Patrycja , Łuczkiewicz Przemysław
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate changes in selected quality traits of chicken table eggs during their storage under standard storage conditions and in refrigeration.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of 570 eggs from Hy-Line hens. The eggs were placed on trays of 30 pieces each, and then group C (control) eggs were stored at 14°C temperature and 70 per cent humidity and group F (experimental) eggs were refrigerated at 5°C and 30 per cent humidity. Changes in egg mass and air cell depth were measured on the laying day and, then, after every 7 days for 5 weeks for group C and for up to 24 weeks for group F. Initially for every week and then after every four weeks, the quality of 30 eggs from each group was evaluated. The following traits were analysed: whole egg (mass, specific gravity), shell (conductivity, strength, mass, thickness, and density) and content (proportions, pH, albumen quality and yolk colour).

Findings

It was shown that due to a significant limitation of qualitative changes (lower water loss, higher specific mass, lower shell conductivity, better albumen quality, lower pH content, more favourable proportions of morphological elements) in eggs stored in refrigeration despite prolonged time, reduced temperature should be considered as a factor allowing for a significant prolongation of egg shelf life during storage.

Originality/value

The unusually elongated time of the experiment allows for a practical implementation of the results, especially in the case of eggs intended for processing.
Participatory HRM and firm performance
Authors: Gahlawat Neha , Kundu Subhash C.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between participatory HRM and firm performance through a series of mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected from 569 respondents belonging to 207 organizations operating in India. Structural equation modeling and bootstrapping via PROCESS were used to analyze the hypothesized relationships between participatory HRM and firm performance.

Findings

The study has highlighted that participatory HRM in the form of self-managed teams, flexible work arrangements and empowerment results in better organizational climate, heightened affective commitment, reduced intention to leave and enhanced firm performance. Furthermore, it has been established that organizational climate, affective commitment and intention to leave serially mediate the relationship between participatory HRM and firm performance.

Practical implications

The study gives strong indications that adopting bundle of participatory HRM practices is beneficial for generating positive organizational climate, enhanced employee attitudes and superior firm performance.

Originality/value

By establishing serial mediation through organizational climate, affective commitment and employees’ intention to leave, this study brings new insights into the interpretation of underlying mechanism existing between participatory HRM and firm performance, thus uniquely contributes to the HRM and OB literature.
Moderating effect of perceived organizational support on the relationship between leader–member exchange and expatriate voice in multinational banks
Authors: Sher Peter Jih-Hsin , Zhuang Wen-Long , Wang Ming-Chieh , Peng Chun-Jung , Lee Chun-Han
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of home and host country leader–member exchange (LMX) on expatriate voice and determine whether perceived organizational support (POS) moderates the relationship between home or host country LMX and expatriate voice.

Design/methodology/approach

This study surveyed 300 expatriates (expatriation of at least six months) working for Taiwanese banks. The participants had expatriated to Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, the USA and Vietnam. Convenience sampling was adopted.

Findings

Based on an analysis of 132 expatriates working for Taiwanese banks, home and host country LMX were positively related to expatriate voice. Moreover, host country LMX accounted for more variance in expatriate voice than home country LMX did. Financial POS moderated the relationship between home country LMX and expatriate voice. Career POS and adjustment POS moderated the relationships between home and host country LMX and expatriate voice.

Originality/value

In the field of expatriate management, whether expatriate voice is influenced by home and host country LMX requires further exploration. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the effects of home and host country LMX on expatriate voice in host countries, as well as the moderating effect of POS on the aforementioned relationships.
Multiple Sharia' board directorship: a Maslahah (public interest) perspective
Authors: Abd Razak Abd Hakim
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the legal paradigm of multiple Sharia' board directorship practice from the Sharia' law concept of Maslahah Al-Mursalah (public interest).

Design/methodology/approach

It uses a doctrinal research method that relies on the commonly referred sources of Quran and Sunnah, with a specific focus on Maslahah Al-Mursalah and, where applicable, commentaries by contemporary scholars, academics and practitioners as well as translations of classical book of Fiqh. This study scrutinises the polarity of views concerning the distinct Masyaqqah (necessity) surrounding the practice in discussion: the Masyaqqah that encourages and one that discourages the application of the practice.

Findings

This study is keen to suggest the industry to adopt a cautious approach and consider exploring a corporate governance framework that appraises the theoretical and practical Sharia' issues concerning its application in cognisance of its adversarial influence towards the sustainability of Islamic banking industry.

Originality/value

Since Murat Unal’s study of multiple Sharia' board directorships in 2009 and 2011, empirical works that scrutinise the practice from the Sharia' law perspective have remained limited or almost non-existent. It is aspired that this study may assist fellow readers and future researchers alike in evaluating and appreciating the divergent views surrounding the application of this practice in Islamic banking.
The effects of logo frame design on brand extensions
Authors: Chen Yu-Shan Athena , Bei Lien-Ti
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purposes of two experiments were to examine how brands may create a broad brand impression and benefit brand extensions by crafting logo frames.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experimental studies were conducted. Study 1 examines how removing and breaking logo frames expands perceived brand breadth. Study 2 considers the implication of this logo frame effect and indicates the impact of logo frames on brand extension scenarios.

Findings

Removing and breaking logo frames could expand perceived brand breadth and, in turn, benefits the brand extensions, especially for promotion-focused consumers. However, prevention-focused people held favorable brand extension attitudes when the brand logo constructs a complete frame due to its perceived trustworthiness.

Research limitations/implications

As an initial exploration, this study conceptualizes and manipulates logo frames as full framed, partial framed and open logo. Future research studies could include further design features in the examination.

Practical implications

If a brand seeks to be broad, removing or breaking its logo frame is an alternative. However, consequential negative impressions on brand extension attitudes among prevention-focused customers should be considered.

Originality/value

This study is the first investigation into the impacts of logo frame patterns on consumers’ perception of brand breadth and the consequent extension attitudes.
Viewpoint: a practitioner’s response to overcoming barriers to access by male participants at cancer resource centers
Authors: Cirone Marianne
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide suggestions regarding how cancer resource center directors, staff and volunteers may encourage men battling cancer, as well as male cancer survivors, to patronize cancer resource centers and to participate in center services.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a personal viewpoint based on research and on the author’s managerial experiences with cancer resource center services, including planning services and programming.

Findings

This paper offers cancer resource center directors suggestions regarding how they can attract male cancer patients to their organizations and encourage their participation in center services.

Research limitations/implications

No limitations were identified.

Practical implications

This paper provides possible strategies for overcoming barriers to access to cancer resource centers in the male cancer-survivor population.

Social implications

Given the medical costs associated with cancer care, encouraging men with cancer to actively participate in cancer resource center programming, which profoundly influences their physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being, can yield many societal benefits.

Originality/value

Cancer resource centers desire to be inclusive of all cancer patients, regardless of gender; however, these centers tend to be disproportionally patronized by women with cancer. This viewpoint addresses how this problem may be addressed via service enhancement, service programming and service design to encourage greater usage by men.
A dialectical vision of mathematical models of complex systems
Authors: Usó Doménech José Luis , Nescolarde-Selva Josué Antonio , Segura-Abad Lorena , Gash Hugh
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Mathematical models are constructed at the interface between practice, experience and theories. The function of models puts us on guard against the privilege granted to what is accepted as abstract and formal, and at the same time puts us on guard against a static and phenomenological conception of knowledge. The epistemology of models does not suppress in any way the objectives of science: only, a dogmatic conception concerning truth is removed, and dynamic and dialectical aspects of monitoring are stressed to establish the most viable model. The purpose of this paper is to examine hybrid methodologies (inductive-deductive) that may either propose hypothetical causal relations and seek support for them in field data or detect causal relations in field data and propose hypotheses for the relations detected.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors follow a dialectical analysis for a type of inductive-deductive model.

Findings

In this work, the authors present an inductive-deductive methodology whose practical result satisfies the Hegelian dialectic. The consequent implication of their mutual reciprocal integration produces abstractions from the concrete that enable thought. The real problem in this case is a given ontological system or reality.

Originality/value

The essential elements of the models – variables, equations, simulation and feedback – are studied using a dialectic Hegelian theory.
Gender differences in taste and foods habits
Authors: Lombardo Mauro , Aulisa Giovanni , Padua Elvira , Annino Giuseppe , Iellamo Ferdinando , Pratesi Antonio , Caprio Massimiliano , Bellia Alfonso
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine gender differences in food habits and food choices, including decisions in healthy eating, to personalize diet therapies to be as effective possible for long-term weight loss.

Design/methodology/approach

In this cross-sectional study, eating behaviours were assessed using a questionnaire composed of 12 questions concerning food habits, 17 concerning food taste, and four about healthy eating. There were 2,021 (1,276 women) Caucasian adults enrolled in the study.

Findings

Statistically significant differences in women compared to men occurred for the following questionnaire entries reading eating habits: whole grain food (10.0 per cent higher in women; p < 0.001); cereals such as barley (8.3 per cent higher in women, p < 0.001); cooked vegetables (6.6 per cent higher in women, p < 0.001); eggs (5.0 per cent lower in women, p = 0.03); meat (9.3 per cent lower in women, p < 0.001); and processed meat (7.1 per cent lower in women, p < 0.001). Women consume more water, sugar-sweetened beverages and alcoholic drinks than males, and liked salty foods more than sweet foods. Men ate faster, ate more during the night and slept worse than women. Men ate meals out more often and tended to be hungrier later in the day. Women missed more meals and ate more times during the day and were also more likely to eat uncontrollably.

Research limitations/implications

The authors observed strong evidence of profound gender-specific differences between men and women in terms of dietary habits, the taste of food and in the relationship with meals.

Practical implications

The findings suggest a need for the creation of gender-specific programs for promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Social implications

A need for the creation of gender-related programs for promoting healthy lifestyle has been demonstrated.

Originality/value

Reasons for the different eating behaviours among men and women have been found. Western society’s perception of the ideal body weight is much lower for women than for men. In general, social perceptions influence nutritional behaviour to a great extent. Women’s greater nutritional knowledge and sex-specific taste preferences also account for the differences in eating behaviour.
Direct additive manufacturing of large-sized crack-free alumina/aluminum titanate composite ceramics by directed laser deposition
Authors: Niu Fangyong , Wu Dongjiang , Huang Yunfei , Yan Shuai , Ma Guangyi , Li Chaojiang , Ding Jun
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Direct additive manufacturing of ceramics (DAMC) is a highly promising ceramics preparation technology because of its simple process and rapid response capability, but the cracking issue prevents its industrial application. The purpose of this paper is to propose aluminum titanate (Al2TiO5) with low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) to suppress cracks during the DAMC.

Design/methodology/approach

Al2O3/Al2TiO5 (A/AT) composite ceramic samples with different compositions were in-situ synthesized from Al2O3/TiO2 (A/T) powder in a directed laser deposition (DLD) process. The relationship between the content of TiO2 and cracking characteristics of fabricated sample was discussed. Phase composition, microstructure and properties of the fabricated samples were also investigated.

Findings

The results of this paper show that the doping of TiO2 can obtain Al2TiO5 synthesized in situ by reaction with Al2O3 and effectively suppress cracks during DAMC. When the content of TiO2 reaches 30 wt.per cent, cracks hardly occur even under conditions of slow deposition. Crack-free structures such as vane, cone and pyramid were successfully prepared, with a maximum cross-sectional dimension of 30 mm and maximum length of 150 mm. A continuous matrix phase formed of the low CTE of Al2TiO5 is the major cause of crack suppression. The dispersed distribution of a-Al2O3 columnar dendrites has the effect of increasing the strength of the matrix. Under current process conditions, the prepared sample with 10 wt.per cent TiO2 has micro-hardness of 21.05 GPa and flexural strength of 170 MPa.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new method and inspiration for direct additive manufacturing of large-sized crack-free ceramics, which has the potential to promote practical application of the technology.
The Effect of Time and Temperature on the Persistence and Quality of Latent Fingerprints Recovered from 60‐Watt Incandescent Light Bulbs
Authors: Colella Olivia , Miller Marilyn , Boone Edward , Buffington‐Lester Sylvia , Curran Francis J. , Simmons Tal
Published: July 2019

To understand how time and temperature could affect latent fingerprints, wooden pallets were used to construct five units that each housed ten 60‐watt incandescent light bulbs. Fingerprints were deposited on the top, middle, and base of the globes. The bulbs were powered on (except the control bulb in each unit) for 18, 48, 72, 120, 168, 336, 504, and 672 h. Fingerprints recovered from the bulbs by tape lift after black powder processing were given a quality score. A thermal imaging camera determined temperatures on three areas of the bulbs. Fingerprints on the top of the globe (156.3°C) had the lowest quality score, and fingerprints on the middle of the globe (112.6°C) had the highest quality score. The mean quality scores of the three temperature classes were within one standard deviation of one another, meaning there is no way to estimate fingerprint age based on its quality after heat exposure.
Mentoring support and protégé creativity: examining the moderating roles of job dissatisfaction and Chinese traditionality
Authors: Hu Changya , Baranik Lisa E , Cheng Ying‐Ni , Huang Jui‐Chieh , Yang Chun‐Chi
Published: July 2019

This study examines the relationship between mentoring support and protégé creativity in ongoing mentoring relationships. Protégés’ job dissatisfaction and Chinese traditionality are identified as conditions under which the positive mentoring‐creativity relationship can be intensified in Chinese cultural settings. Based on data collected from 301 mentoring pairs, we found that mentoring support positively related to protégé creativity. Consistent with our predictions, protégé job dissatisfaction and Chinese traditionality both strengthened the positive relationship between mentoring support and protégé creativity. Furthermore, the positive relationship was strongest for protégés reporting high levels of dissatisfaction and Chinese traditionality. Implications for mentoring and protégé creativity are discussed.
Bankers closing idiosyncratic deals: Implications for organisational cynicism
Authors: Morf Manuela , Bakker Arnold B. , Feierabend Anja
Published: July 2019

To better meet flexibility demands and increase person–job fit, organisations might offer their employees the opportunity to negotiate task‐related arrangements, namely, idiosyncratic deals, referred to as “i‐deals.” However, not every employee who requests an i‐deal is successful in their negotiations. Thus, this study aims to further the knowledge of potential shortcomings of task‐related i‐deals and the role of supervisors in determining them. Drawing on social exchange theory, we hypothesise that low‐quality supervisor–employee relationships (i.e., leader–member exchange) are more likely to result in unsuccessful task‐related i‐deal negotiations, which consequently might provoke increased organisational cynicism. We analysed three waves of data from 202 Swiss bankers who had requested task‐related i‐deals within the investigated business cycle. The results supported our hypothesis. Our findings highlight the role of supervisors in reducing the potential costs of using task‐related i‐deals as employee‐initiated job design practices.
Chromosome‐level reference genome of X12, a highly virulent race of the soybean cyst nematode Heterodera glycines
Authors: Lian Yun , Wei He , Wang Jinshe , Lei Chenfang , Li Haichao , Li Jinying , Wu Yongkang , Wang Shufeng , Zhang Hui , Wang Tingfeng , Du Pei , Guo Jianqiu , Lu Weiguo
Published: July 2019

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) is a major pest of soybean that is spreading across major soybean production regions worldwide. Increased SCN virulence has recently been observed in both the United States and China. However, no study has reported a genome assembly for H. glycines at the chromosome scale. Herein, the first chromosome‐level reference genome of X12, an unusual SCN race with high infection ability, is presented. Using whole‐genome shotgun (WGS) sequencing, Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) sequencing, Illumina paired‐end sequencing, 10X Genomics linked reads and high‐throughput chromatin conformation capture (Hi‐C) genome scaffolding techniques, a 141.01‐megabase (Mb) assembled genome was obtained with scaffold and contig N50 sizes of 16.27 Mb and 330.54 kilobases (kb), respectively. The assembly showed high integrity and quality, with over 90% of Illumina reads mapped to the genome. The assembly quality was evaluated using Core Eukaryotic Genes Mapping Approach and Benchmarking Universal Single‐Copy Orthologs. A total of 11,882 genes were predicted using de novo, homolog and RNAseq data generated from eggs, second‐stage juveniles (J2), third‐stage juveniles (J3) and fourth‐stage juveniles (J4) of X12, and 79.0% of homologous sequences were annotated in the genome. These high‐quality X12 genome data will provide valuable resources for research in a broad range of areas, including fundamental nematode biology, SCN–plant interactions and co‐evolution, and also contribute to the development of technology for overall SCN management.
Risk of opportunistic infections in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis, using a Japanese health insurance database
Authors: Sakai Ryoko , Tanaka Eiichi , Nishina Hirokazu , Suzuki Masayoshi , Yamanaka Hisashi , Harigai Masayoshi
Published: July 2019

Aim

Opportunistic infections (OIs) adversely affect outcomes in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis (AAV). This study aimed to identify the incidence proportion of risk factors for OIs in patients with AAV who were on remission‐induction therapy, using a Japanese health insurance database.

Method

This retrospective longitudinal population‐based study was conducted using claims data provided by Medical Data Vision Co., Ltd. We defined individuals as AAV cases receiving remission‐induction therapy if they met all of the following criteria: (a) having OIs with at least 1 specified International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision code (M300, M301, M313, or M318); (b) receiving at least 1 prescription of oral corticosteroids (CS) with prednisolone (PSL)‐equivalent dosage ≥30 mg/d, CS pulse therapy, immunosuppressive agents or rituximab during hospitalization between April 2008 and April 2017; and (c) at least 7 days of hospitalization while on the above‐mentioned therapies. We calculated incidence and proportion of OIs during the year following remission‐induction therapy and the adjusted odds ratio (OR) using a logistic regression model.

Results

We included 2299 patients with AAV in this study. OIs occurred in 460 patients (20.0%), with the most frequently occurring OI being cytomegalovirus infection (n = 122, 6.5%). After adjusting for covariates, age by decade (OR 1.24, 95% CI: 1.12‐1.36), daily PSL dose per 10 mg (OR 1.16, 95% CI: 1.08‐1.25), and CS pulse therapy (OR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.04‐1.60) were found to be significantly associated with occurrence of OIs.

Conclusion

Older age and corticosteroid use were found to be significant risk factors for OIs in patients with AAV on remission‐induction therapy, using a health insurance database.
Short progression‐free survival of ALK inhibitors sensitive to secondary mutations in ALK‐positive NSCLC patients
Authors: Haratake Naoki , Seto Takashi , Takamori Shinkichi , Toyozawa Ryo , Nosaki Kaname , Miura Naoko , Ohba Taro , Toyokawa Gouji , Taguchi Kenichi , Yamaguchi Masafumi , Shimokawa Mototsugu , Takenoyama Mitsuhiro
Published: July 2019

Background

Most non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients relapse on anaplastic lymphoma kinase‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (ALK‐TKI) therapy because of acquired resistance. Rebiopsy is recommended to provide optimal therapy after relapse for some ALK‐TKI therapies; however, little clinical data exists on the clinical efficacy of ALK‐TKI tailored to secondary mutation.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the patterns of ALK‐TKI treatment and clinical outcomes, including progression free survival (PFS), of ALK‐positive NSCLC patients who received rebiopsy. Based on the rebiopsy results, secondary mutations in the ALK gene that were shown to be associated with the efficacy of ALK‐TKI therapy in the preclinical or clinical setting were defined as “sensitive mutations (SM)”.

Results

Among 71 patients who received ALK‐TKI for NSCLC at our institution, 20 patients received rebiopsy, and secondary SM were found in eight patients. The objective response rate (ORR) of the cases with SM who received ALK‐TKI therapy was 88.9%, while the ORR of the patients without SM who received ALK TKI or chemotherapy was 20.0%; however, the PFS of the patients with SM was relatively short (with SM vs. without SM: 5.6 months vs. 5.1 months).

Conclusions

The selection of ALK‐TKI based on the rebiopsy result was associated with a high ORR and relatively short PFS. The mechanism responsible for the short PFS of sensitive ALK‐TKI to secondary mutation should be clarified.
Cessation of fluoxetine treatment increases alcohol seeking during relapse and dysregulates endocannabinoid and glutamatergic signaling in the central amygdala
Authors: Suárez Juan , Khom Sophia , Alén Francisco , Natividad Luis A. , Varodayan Florence P. , Patel Reesha R. , Kirson Dean , Arco Rocío , Ballesta Antonio , Bajo Michal , Rubio Leticia , Martin‐Fardon Rémi , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando , Roberto Marisa
Published: July 2019

Administration of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), typically used as antidepressants, induces long‐lasting behavioral changes associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, the contribution of SSRI (fluoxetine)‐induced alterations in neurobiological processes underlying alcohol relapse such as endocannabinoid and glutamate signaling in the central amygdala (CeA) remains largely unknown. We utilized an integrative approach to study the effects of repeated fluoxetine administration during abstinence on ethanol drinking. Gene expression and biochemical and electrophysiological studies explored the hypothesis that dysregulation in glutamatergic and endocannabinoid mechanisms in the CeA underlie the susceptibility to alcohol relapse. Cessation of daily treatment with fluoxetine (10 mg/kg) during abstinence resulted in a marked increase in ethanol seeking during re‐exposure periods. The increase in ethanol self‐administration was associated with (a) reductions in levels of the endocannabinoids N‐arachidonoylethanolomine and 2‐arachidonoylglycerol in the CeA, (b) increased amygdalar gene expression of cannabinoid type‐1 receptor (CB1), N‐acyl phosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D (Nape‐pld), fatty acid amid hydrolase (Faah), (c) decreased amygdalar gene expression of ionotropic AMPA (GluA2 and GluA4) and metabotropic (mGlu3) glutamate receptors, and (d) increased glutamatergic receptor function. Overall, our data suggest that the administration of the antidepressant fluoxetine during abstinence dysregulates endocannabinoid signaling and glutamatergic receptor function in the amygdala, facts that likely facilitate alcohol drinking behavior during relapse.
Cardiac autonomic dysfunctions are recovered with vitamin D replacement in apparently healthy individuals with vitamin D deficiency
Authors: Dogdus Mustafa , Burhan Sebnem , Bozgun Zeynal , Cinier Goksel , Koyuncu Ilhan , Yucel Karabay Can , Zoghi Mehdi
Published: July 2019

Background

Vitamin D (VitD) has important prohormone functions in a wide range of clinical processes. Although it is known that individuals with VitD deficiency have cardiac autonomic dysfunction, there are no convincing data regarding the effect of VitD replacement. We aimed to evaluate the impact of VitD replacement on cardiac autonomic dysfunction.

Methods

Fifty‐two apparently healthy subjects with VitD deficiency and 50 healthy control subjects were enrolled. Prior to VitD replacement, 24‐hr Holter recordings were obtained, and HRV parameters were recorded. VitD levels were measured 2 months later after replacement, and control 24‐hr Holter recordings were analyzed.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 36.04 ± 7.6 years, and 53.9% were female. SDNN (68.58 ± 13.53 vs. 121.02 ± 27.45 ms, p = .001), SDANN (95.96 ± 22.26 vs. 166.48 ± 32.97 ms, p = .001), RMSSD (23 vs. 59 ms, p < .001), and PNN50 (6.5% vs. 36%, p < .001) were significantly lower in patients with VitD deficiency compared with the control group. HRV parameters were improved after VitD replacement [SDNN (68.58 ± 13.53 to 119.87 ± 28.28 ms, p < .001), SDANN (95.96 ± 22.26 to 164.44 ± 33.90 ms, p < .001), RMSSD (23 to 58 ms, p < .001), and PNN50 (6.5 to 33%, p < .001)].

Conclusion

The present study suggested that VitD deficiency was significantly correlated with impaired cardiac autonomic functions assessed by parameters of HRV, and cardiac autonomic dysfunction improved after VitD replacement in otherwise apparently healthy individuals.
Evaluation of the novel total artificial heart Realheart in a pilot human fitting study
Authors: Pieper Ina Laura , Sonntag Simon Johannes , Meyns Bart , Hadi Hind , Najar Azad
Published: July 2019

Heart failure affects >26 million patients worldwide. Current cardiac devices save lives, but patients suffer complications. Hence, improved devices are needed. Realheart TAH is a novel total artificial heart which has shown promising results in acute pig studies. However, the device design needed to be evaluated in humans. Virtual implantations demonstrated the device fits in two of three patients, but that there was some interference with the left lung. Herein, we used an innovative 3D‐printed model with swivelling device components to test the device in human cadavers. Our new method demonstrated how to optimize design to improve the surgical fit.
Associations of social relationships with curative and preventive dental care use among young and middle‐aged adults: Evidence from a population‐based study in Japan
Authors: Murakami Keiko , Aida Jun , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Social relationships are important for diffusion of information and behaviours. Access to preventive dental care is more difficult than access to curative dental care under the Japanese universal healthcare system. Our objective was to examine whether social relationships were differentially associated with curative and preventive dental care use in Japan.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted between 2010 and 2011 among residents aged 25‐50 years in Japanese metropolitan areas. Valid responses were obtained from 1919 men and 2207 women. Social relationships included social networks (membership of organizations and number of close ties) and social support (informational support and instrumental support). Poisson regression analyses with robust variance estimators were conducted to examine associations between each social relationship variable and curative dental care use or preventive dental care use, adjusted for covariates.

Results

While 38.4% of men and 42.0% of women used curative dental care, 22.9% of men and 32.5% of women used preventive dental care in the past year. No measures of social relationships were associated with curative dental care use among men and women, except the number of close ties among men. By contrast, all measures of social relationships were associated with preventive dental care use among men; the multivariate‐adjusted prevalence ratios (95% confidence intervals) of the highest compared with the lowest level of social relationships were 1.58 (1.18‐2.13) for membership of organizations, 1.58 (1.24‐2.00) for the number of close ties, 1.41 (1.10‐1.82) for informational support and 1.30 (1.01‐1.68) for instrumental support. Among women, no measures of social relationships were associated with preventive dental care use.

Conclusions

Social relationships were associated with preventive dental care use among men but not among women, while these were not associated with curative dental care use.
Making fathers relevant: How practitioners include both parents in talk about parenting programmes
Authors: Symonds Jon
Published: July 2019

Parenting programmes are recommended as an effective means to support parents in promoting positive relationships with, and managing the behaviour of, their children. One barrier that impedes their successful implementation is that partners, especially fathers, are less frequently recruited by child welfare services. This article reports on a study that investigated how both parents were engaged with parenting services. Direct recordings were made of initial telephone conversations between six practitioners and 28 parents referred to those services and investigated for evidence of how the other parent was recruited. Conversation analysis was used to identify how participants introduced the possibility of both parents being included in the service, how these possibilities were negotiated, and what eventual agreements were made for both parents to be included in future arrangements. Implications for practice, training, and future research are considered.
Measuring cognitive insight in people with problematic substance use: An exploration of the factor validity of the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale
Authors: Raftery Dayle , Kelly Peter J. , Deane Frank P. , Mcketin Rebecca , Baker Amanda L. , Turner Alyna , Dean Olivia M.
Published: July 2019

Introduction and Aims

Insight is a multi‐dimensional construct that predicts treatment outcomes of people with mental illness. Research into insight in substance dependent populations is limited and measures of cognitive insight have not been validated for this population.

Design and Methods

A cross sectional survey was conducted with residents of nine residential substance dependence treatment facilities in Australia. Cognitive insight was assessed using the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale (BCIS). Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler 6 (K6).

Results

Participants (N = 312) were primarily male (68.6%), with an average age of 37.51 years (SD = 9.85). Methamphetamine (45.2%) and alcohol (35.9%) were the primary substances of use. A confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the two‐factor model of the BCIS (CMIN/DF = 2.91, CFI = 0.84). Removing two items from the Self‐Reflection subscale improved model fit (CMIN/DF = 2.71, CFI = 0.84, Χ 2[22, n = 312] = 76.43, P < 0.02). Internal consistency analyses indicated acceptable internal reliability (Self‐Reflection α = 0.73, Self‐Certainty α = 0.72, composite α = 0.75). Self‐Certainty scores were significantly higher for participants with a self‐reported psychotic disorder (M = 14.95 vs. M = 13.04, P = 0.007). Self‐Reflection scores were higher for people experiencing psychological distress (M = 17.57 vs. M = 15.95, P = 0.001).

Discussion and Conclusions

We found that a 12‐item version of the BCIS had good psychometric properties in this substance‐using population. Further research is needed to explore whether insight can predict treatment outcomes for substance use.
MEK inhibitor cobimetinib rescues a dRaf mutant lethal phenotype in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Pfeifle Isabelle , Bohnekamp Jens , Volkhardt Anna , Kirsten Holger , Rohwedder Astrid , Thum Andreas , Magin Thomas M. , Kunz Manfred
Published: July 2019

Since Drosophila melanogaster has proven to be a useful model system to study phenotypes of oncogenic mutations and to identify new anti‐cancer drugs, we generated human BRAFV600E homologous dRaf mutant (dRafA572E) Drosophila melanogaster strains to use these for characterisation of mutant phenotypes and exploit these phenotypes for drug testing. For mutant gene expression, the GAL4/UAS expression system was used. dRafA572E was expressed tissue‐specific in the eye, epidermis, heart, wings, secretory glands and in the whole animal. Expression of dRaf A572E under the control of an eye‐specific driver led to semi‐lethality and a rough eye phenotype. The vast majority of other tissue‐specific and ubiquitous drivers led to a lethal phenotype only. The rough eye phenotype was used to test BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib and MEK1/2 inhibitor cobimetinib. There was no phenotype rescue by this treatment. However, a significant rescue of the lethal phenotype was observed under a gut‐specific driver. Here, MEK1/2 inhibitor cobimetinib rescued Drosophila larvae to reach pupal stage in 37% of cases as compared to 1% in control experiments. Taken together, the BRAFV600E homolog dRaf A572E exerts mostly lethal effects in Drosophila. Gut‐specific dRaf A572E expression might in future be developed further for drug testing.
Preoperative Mac‐2 binding protein glycosylation isomer level predicts postoperative ascites in patients with hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ishii Norihiro , Harimoto Norifumi , Araki Kenichiro , Muranushi Ryo , Hoshino Kouki , Hagiwara Kei , Gantumur Dolgormaa , Yamanaka Takahiro , Tsukagoshi Mariko , Igarashi Takamichi , Tanaka Hiroshi , Watanabe Akira , Kubo Norio , Shirabe Ken
Published: July 2019

Aim

Postoperative ascites is one of the most common complications after hepatic resection and is related to liver fibrosis. Mac‐2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) is a reliable and non‐invasive marker for assessing liver fibrosis. This study aimed to evaluate whether preoperative M2BPGi level can predict postoperative refractory ascites in patients with curative hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

The present study retrospectively evaluated 59 patients between January 2016 and June 2018. We assessed the relationship between preoperative M2BPGi levels, expressed as the cut‐off index, and postoperative ascites.

Results

The median M2BPGi level was 1.36 (range 0.34–11.56). Postoperative ascites occurred in seven patients (11.9%). Among them, refractory ascites, defined as diuretic‐resistant ascites, occurred in four patients (6.8%). Uni‐ and multivariate analysis showed that preoperative M2BPGi level was the only independent risk factor of postoperative ascites (odds ratio 3.28, P = 0.033). The cut‐off values of M2BPGi for postoperative ascites and refractory ascites were 2.41 and 3.10, respectively. Remarkably, there were no patients with postoperative ascites and refractory ascites when the preoperative M2BPGi levels were less than each cut‐off value.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that M2BPGi level is a reliable and non‐invasive surrogate marker for predicting postoperative ascites before curative resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.
“Artificial Intelligence”, or Statistics?
Authors: Lowe David
Published: July 2019

Professor David Lowe briefly explains the statistical underpinnings of AI
The Ties that Bind
Authors: Leemis Lawrence M. , Pasupathy Raghu
Published: July 2019

In this special instalment of the Notebook series, Lawrence M. Leemis and Raghu Pasupathy explore the hidden links between probability distributions
Measurement Error Skin Colour and the Role of the Interviewer
Authors: Cernat Alexandru , Sakshaug Joseph W. , Castillo Javier
Published: July 2019

Interviewer effects are a well-known problem in survey research. Less well known is whether the skin colour of interviewers can affect their assessments of the skin colour of respondents. Alexandru Cernat, Joseph W. Sakshaug and Javier Castillo investigate