bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membrane mechanics govern spatiotemporal heterogeneity of endocytic clathrin coat dynamics
Authors: Willy N. M. , Ferguson J. P. , Huber S. D. , Heidotting S. P. , Aygün E. , Wurm S. A. , Johnston-Halperin E. , Poirier M. G. , Kural C.
Published: September 2017

Dynamics of endocytic clathrin-coated structures can be remarkably divergent across different cell types, cells within the same culture, or even distinct surfaces of the same cell. The origin of this astounding heterogeneity remains to be elucidated. Here we show that cellular processes associated with changes in effective plasma membrane tension induce significant spatiotemporal alterations in endocytic clathrin coat dynamics. Spatiotemporal heterogeneity of clathrin coat dynamics is also observed during morphological changes taking place within developing multicellular organisms. These findings suggest that tension gradients can lead to patterning and differentiation of tissues through mechanoregulation of clathrin-mediated endocytosis.
The Impact of Bank Branching Deregulations on the U.S. Agricultural Sector
Authors: Kandilov Amy M. G. , Kandilov Ivan T.
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate how states that lifted restrictions on interstate bank expansions, thereby improving access to cheaper credit, experienced increased farm sales and net farm income. In our empirical analysis, we use nationwide county‐level data from 1970 through 2001 and a difference‐in‐differences econometric framework, exploiting only within‐state variation in banking deregulation, to distinguish the effect of an increase in bank competition from potential confounding factors. By including region‐by‐year fixed effects in our econometric equation, we compare changes in farm sales and expenditures in states that lift restrictions on interstate banking to changes in states that do not lift such restrictions within the same census region. Our estimates indicate that county‐level farm sales increase by about 3.4% and county‐level net farm income rises by $1.57 million (in 1982 dollars) after a state deregulates its banking sector by allowing interstate bank expansion. We also find evidence that farm expenditures, in particular expenditures on feed, fuel, machine and equipment rental, as well as interest payments, grew as a result of the banking deregulation. The positive impacts on farm sales, net income, and interest payments are larger in metropolitan counties than in rural counties, consistent with the notion that interstate bank entry following deregulation was concentrated in larger metropolitan markets, leading to a greater reduction in the cost of credit in those areas.
MetExploreViz: web component for interactive metabolic network visualization
Authors: Chazalviel Maxime , Frainay Clément , Poupin Nathalie , Vinson Florence , Merlet Benjamin , Gloaguen Yoann , Cottret Ludovic , Jourdan Fabien
Published: September 2017

MetExploreViz is an open source web component that can be easily embedded in any web site. It provides features dedicated to the visualization of metabolic networks and pathways and thus offers a flexible solution to analyse omics data in a biochemical context.

Availability and implementation

Documentation and link to GIT code repository (GPL 3.0 license) are available at this URL: http://metexplore.toulouse.inra.fr/metexploreViz/doc/
The Relationship Between Mismatch Repair Deficiency and PD-L1 Expression in Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Mills Anne M. , Dill Erik A. , Moskaluk Christopher A. , Dziegielewski Jaroslaw , Bullock Tim N. , Dillon Patrick M.
Published: September 2017

Mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency in solid tumors has recently been linked to susceptibility to immunotherapies targeting the programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death-1 ligand (PD-L1) axis. Loss of MMR proteins has been shown to correlate with tumoral PD-L1 expression in colorectal and endometrial carcinomas, but the association between expression of MMR proteins and PD-L1 has not previously been studied in breast carcinoma, where MMR deficiency is less common. We assessed the relationship between PD-L1 and MMR protein expression by immunohistochemistry in 245 primary and 40 metastatic breast carcinomas. Tumoral staining for PD-L1 was positive in 12% of all cases, including 32% of triple-negative cancers. MMR deficiency was observed in 0.04% of breast cancers; the single MMR-deficient case was a high-grade, triple-negative ductal carcinoma which showed dual loss of MLH1 and PMS2 proteins and expressed PD-L1. Two ER+ carcinomas initially were scored with MMR protein loss in tissue microarray format but were subsequently shown to be MMR-intact on whole sections. Analysis of MMR gene mutation in The Cancer Genome Atlas corroborates low frequency of MMR deficiency for invasive breast cancer. MMR protein expression is therefore unlikely to show utility as a screen for immunotherapeutic vulnerability in this tumor type, and may provoke unwarranted genetic testing in patients unlikely to have a heritable cancer syndrome. PD-L1 may be a more clinically relevant biomarker for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapies in this setting.
Radiologically Undetected Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation
Authors: Xiong Wei , Cheeney Gregory , Kim Sooah , Kolesnikova Violetta , Henninger Brooke , Alexander Jacob , Swanson Paul E. , Upton Melissa P. , Truong Camtu D. , Yeh Matthew M.
Published: September 2017

Orthotopic liver transplantation is the best option for patients with carefully selected unresectable disease because of underlying liver dysfunction. The 5-year survival rate after orthotopic liver transplantation for early detected hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is high, and a similar or even higher rate is reported in those with radiologically undetected HCC. This study evaluated and compared the histologic features of pretransplant radiologically undetected (14 patients, 25 tumors) versus detected (36 patients, 45 tumors) HCCs. Tumor size, tumor differentiation, number of unpaired arteries, mitotic count per 10 high-power fields, CD34 immunostain to assess microvessel density, and Ki67 immunostain were compared with the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System score, which was retrospectively assigned to each tumor in both groups. The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System score was significantly higher in the HCC detected group (P<0.001). The vast majority of the undetected HCCs (88%) was <2 cm in size. Only 12% of the undetected HCCs were ≥2 cm, whereas 51% of the detected HCCs were ≥2 cm in size. Higher rate of moderate to poor tumor differentiation was noted in the detected HCCs compared with the undetected group (89% vs. 60%; P=0.004). No statistically significant difference in the number and distribution of unpaired arteries, or mitotic count was observed in 2 groups (although fewer unpaired arteries were identified in the undetected group). The detected HCCs had a higher rate of 2+ CD34 staining compared with the undetected HCCs (68% vs. 27%; P=0.002), whereas the opposite was observed for 1+ CD34 staining (59% undetected HCCs vs. 17% detected HCCs; P=0.002). Ki67 proliferative index was not statistically different between the 2 groups (120.8/1000 cells detected HCCs vs. 81.8/1000 cells undetected HCCs; P=0.36). The factors associated with failing to detect HCCs pretransplant by radiologic studies include small tumor size (<2 cm), low-grade histologic differentiation, and low microvessel density (low CD34 staining). A significant association between the number and distribution of unpaired arteries and HCC detection has not been established by our study.
Use of Ketorolac After Outpatient Urogynecologic Surgery: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Trowbridge Elisa R. , Kim Dahea , Caldwell Lauren , Franko Denise , Jackson Jessica Nicole , Shilling Ashley , Hullfish Kathie L.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Patient surveys highlight a prevalence of moderate to severe pain in the postanesthesia care unit. Multimodal analgesia has been promoted to improve this with fewer opioid-induced adverse effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the opioid sparing and analgesic effect of postoperative intravenous (IV) ketorolac after outpatient transvaginal surgery.

Methods

Forty patients were enrolled in this institutional review board–approved, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, to receive either 30 mg of IV ketorolac or IV saline placebo postoperatively. Pain was assessed by visual analog scale at timed intervals. Narcotic pain medication was provided upon request. Narcotic use was reassessed by telephone 5 to 7 days postoperatively. Categorical characteristics were compared by χ2. Continuous variables were evaluated by Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

Twenty patients were randomized to each group. Groups were similar in age, health, and operative factors. There was no significant difference in mean pain scores at any interval. The ketorolac group had a total morphine equivalent consumption median of 7.5 mg versus 4.0 mg for placebo, which was not significant (P = 0.17). Total use of narcotic pills postoperatively was equivalent (median, 5). There was no difference in postoperative nausea. One Dindo grade II complication was reported in the ketorolac group of a postoperative pelvic hematoma requiring transfusion.

Discussion

Intravenous ketorolac administered after outpatient transvaginal surgery did not result in a reduction of pain scores or total morphine consumption. There was one Dindo grade II complication in the ketorolac group. Larger randomized control trials are needed to validate these findings.
Length of Catheter Use After Hysterectomy as a Risk Factor for Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Karp Natalie E. , Kobernik Emily K. , Kamdar Neil S. , Fore Amanda M. , Morgan Daniel M.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The aims of this study were to determine the effect of length of postoperative catheterization on risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) and to identify risk factors for postoperative UTI.

Methods

This was a retrospective case-control study. Demographic and perioperative data, including duration of indwelling catheter use and postoperative occurrence of UTI within 30 days of surgery, were analyzed for hysterectomies using the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative database. Catheter exposure was categorized as low—no catheter placed/catheter removed the day of surgery, intermediate—catheter removed postoperative day 1, high—catheter removal on postoperative day 2 or later, or highest—patient discharged home with catheter. A multivariable logistic regression model was developed to identify factors associated with UTI. An interaction term was included in the final model.

Results

Overall, UTI prevalence was 2.3% and increased with duration of catheter exposure (low: 1.3% vs intermediate: 2.1% vs high: 4.1% vs highest: 6.5%, P < 0.0001). High (odds ratio [OR] = 2.54 [1.51–4.27]) and highest (OR = 3.39 [1.86–6.17]) catheter exposure, operative time (OR = 1.15 [1.03–1.29]), and dependent functional status (OR = 4.62 [1.90–11.20]) were independently associated with UTI. Women who had a vaginal hysterectomy with sling/pelvic organ prolapse repair were more likely to have a UTI than those who had a vaginal hysterectomy alone (OR = 2.58 [1.10–6.07]) and more likely to have a UTI than women having an abdominal or laparoscopic hysterectomy with a sling/pelvic organ prolapse repair (OR = 2.13 [1.12–4.04]).

Conclusions

Length of catheterization and operative time are modifiable risk factors for UTI after hysterectomy. An interaction between vaginal hysterectomy and concomitant pelvic reconstruction increases the odds of UTI.
Novel insights into bat influenza A viruses
Authors: Ciminski Kevin , Thamamongood Thiprampai , Zimmer Gert , Schwemmle Martin
Published: September 2017

In 2012 and 2013, influenza virus genome sequences of two new influenza A virus (IAV) subtypes were discovered in bat specimens, but further characterization was largely impeded by the lack of infectious virus. With the identification of highly susceptible cell lines, reconstitution of infectious bat IAV by reverse genetics recently succeeded and allowed a first insight into the life cycle of these viruses. Although there is a certain degree of functional compatibility between bat and conventional influenza A virus proteins, there are striking differences, including receptor usage, polarity of infection and reassortment potential.
Dual Competition between the Basal Ganglia and the Cortex: from Action-Outcome to Stimulus-Response
Authors: Topalidou Meropi , Kase Daisuke , Boraud Thomas , Rougier Nicolas P.
Published: September 2017

Action-outcome (A-O) and stimulus-response (S-R) processes that are two forms of instrumental conditioning that are important components of decision making and action selection. The former adapts its response according to the outcome while the latter is insensitive to the outcome. An unsolved question is how these two processes emerge, cooperate and interact inside the brain in order to issue a unique behavioral answer. Here we propose a model of the interaction between the cortex, the basal ganglia and the thalamus based on a dual competition. We hypothesize that the striatum, the subthalamic nucleus, the internal pallidum (GPi), the thalamus, and the cortex are involved in closed feedback loops through the hyperdirect and direct pathways. These loops support a competition process that results in the ability for the basal ganglia to make a cognitive decision followed by a motor decision. Considering lateral cortical interactions (short range excitation, long range inhibition), another competition takes place inside the cortex allowing this latter to make a cognitive and a motor decision. We show how this dual competition endows the model with two regimes. One is oriented towards action-outcome and is driven by reinforcement learning, the other is oriented towards stimulus-response and is driven by Hebbian learning. The final decision is made according to a combination of these two mechanisms with a gradual transfer from the former to the latter. We confirmed these theoretical results on primates using a two-armed bandit task and a reversible bilateral inactivation of the internal part of the globus pallidus.
Discordant association of theCREBRFrs373863828 minor allele with increased body mass index and protection from type 2 diabetes in Māori and Pacific (Polynesian) people living in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Krishnan Mohanraj , Major Tanya J , Topless Ruth K , Dewes Ofa , Yu Lennex , Thompson John MD , McCowan Lesley , de Zoysa Janak , Stamp Lisa K , Dalbeth Nicola , Hindmarsh Jennie Harré , Rapana Nuku , Deka Ranjan , Eng Winston W H , Weeks Daniel E , Minster Ryan L , McGarvey Stephen T , Viali Satupa’itea , Naseri Take , Reupena Muagututi’a Sefuiva , Wilcox Phillip , Grattan David , Shepherd Peter R , Shelling Andrew N , Murphy Rinki , Merriman Tony R
Published: September 2017

Aim/Hypotheses

The minor allele ofCREBRFrs373863828 associates with increased body mass index (BMI) and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the Samoan population of Samoa and American Samoa. Our aim was to testrs373863828for association with BMI and odds of T2D, gout and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Māori and Pacific (Polynesian) people living in Aotearoa New Zealand in 2,286 adults.

Methods

Association analyses were performed by linear and logistic regression with BMI, log-transformed BMI, waist circumference, T2D, gout and CKD. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, the first four genome-wide principal components, and (when appropriate) BMI, waist circumference and T2D.

Results

For the minor allele of rs373863828 the effect size for log-transformed BMI was 0.038 (95% CI [0.022-0.055],P=4.8x10−6) and for T2D was OR=0.59 (95% CI [0.47-0.73],P=1.9x10−6). There was no evidence for association of genotype with variance in BMI (P=0.13). Nor was there evidence for association with serum urate (β=0.012 mmol/L,Pc=0.10), gout (OR=1.00,P=0.98) or CKD (OR=0.91,P=0.59).

Conclusions/interpretation

Our results replicated, with very similar effect sizes, association of the minor allele of rs373863828 with higher BMI but lower odds of T2D among New Zealand Polynesian adults, as in Samoan adults living in Samoa and American Samoa.
Structure of BrlR reveals a potential pyocyanin binding site
Authors: Raju Harikiran , Sundararajan Rukmini , Sharma Rohan
Published: September 2017

The transcriptional regulator BrlR from Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a member of the MerR family of multidrug transport activators. Studies have shown BrlR plays an important role in high level drug tolerance of P. aeruginosa in biofilm. Its drug tolerance ability can be enhanced by 3′,5′-cyclic diguanylic acid (c-di-GMP). Here, we show the apo structure of BrlR and the direct binding between GyrI-like domain of BrlR and P. aeruginosa toxin pyocyanin. Furthermore, pyocyanin can enhance the binding between BrlR and DNA in vitro. These findings suggest BrlR can serve as the binding partner for both c-di-GMP and pyocyanin.
Endogenous α-SYN protein analysis from human brain tissues using single-molecule pull-down assay
Authors: Je Goun , Croop Benjamin , Basu Sambuddha , Tang Jialei , Han Kyu Young , Kim Yoon-Seong
Published: September 2017

Alpha-synuclein (α-SYN) is a central molecule in Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis. Despite several studies, the molecular nature of endogenous α-SYN especially in human brain samples is still not well understood due to the lack of reliable methods and the limited amount of bio-specimens. Here, we introduce α-SYN single-molecule pull-down (α-SYN SiMPull) assay combined with in vivo protein crosslinking to count individual α-SYN protein and assess its native oligomerization states from biological samples including human postmortem brains. This powerful single-molecule assay can be highly useful in diagnostic applications using various specimens for neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Comparison of GWAS models to identify non-additive genetic control of flowering time in sunflower hybrids
Authors: Bonnafous Fanny , Fievet Ghislain , Blanchet Nicolas , Boniface Marie-Claude , Carrère Sébastien , Gouzy Jérôme , Legrand Ludovic , Marage Gwenola , Bret-Mestries Emmanuelle , Munos Stéphane , Pouilly Nicolas , Vincourt Patrick , Langlade Nicolas , Mangin Brigitte
Published: September 2017

Genome-wide association studies are a powerful and widely used tool to decipher the genetic control of complex traits. One of the main challenges for hybrid crops, such as maize or sunflower, is to model the hybrid vigor in the linear mixed models, considering the relatedness between individuals. Here, we compared two additive and three non-additive association models for their ability to identify genomic regions associated with flowering time in sunflower hybrids. A panel of 452 sunflower hybrids, corresponding to incomplete crossing between 36 male lines and 36 female lines, was phenotyped in five environments and genotyped for 2,204,423 SNPs. Intra-locus effects were estimated in multi-locus models to detect genomic regions associated with flowering time using the different models. Thirteen quantitative trait loci were identified in total, two with both model categories and one with only non-additive models. A quantitative trait loci on LG09, detected by both the additive and non-additive models, is located near a GAI homolog and is presented in detail. Overall, this study shows the added value of non-additive modeling of allelic effects for identifying genomic regions that control traits of interest and that could participate in the heterosis observed in hybrids.
Genome-wide analysis of genetic risk factors for rheumatic heart disease in Aboriginal Australians provides support for pathogenic molecular mimicry
Authors: Gray Lesley-Ann , D’Antoine Heather A , Tong Steven Y. C. , McKinnon Melita , Bessarab Dawn , Brown Ngiare , Reményi Bo , Steer Andrew , Syn Genevieve , Blackwell Jenefer M , Inouye Michael , Carapetis Jonathan R
Published: September 2017

Background

Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) following Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections is heritable and prevalent in Indigenous populations. Molecular mimicry between human and GAS proteins triggers pro-inflammatory cardiac valve-reactive T-cells.

Methods

Genome-wide genetic analysis was undertaken in 1263 Aboriginal Australians (398 RHD cases; 865 controls). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped using Illumina HumanCoreExome BeadChips. Direct typing and imputation was used to fine-map the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region. Epitope binding affinities were mapped for human cross-reactive GAS proteins, including M5 and M6.

Results

The strongest genetic association was intronic to HLA-DQA1 (rs9272622; P=1.86x10−7). Conditional analyses showed rs9272622 and/or DQA1*AA16 account for the HLA signal. HLA-DQA1*0101_DQB1*0503 (OR 1.44, 95%CI 1.09-1.90, P=9.56x10−3) and HLA-DQA1*0103_DQB1*0601 (OR 1.27, 95%CI 1.07-1.52, P=7.15x10−3) were risk haplotypes; HLA_DQA1*0301-DQB1*0402 (OR 0.30, 95%CI 0.14-0.65, P=2.36x10−3) was protective. Human myosin cross-reactive N-terminal and B repeat epitopes of GAS M5/M6 bind with higher affinity to DQA1/DQB1 alpha/beta dimers for the two risk haplotypes than the protective haplotype.

Conclusions

Variation at HLA_DQA1-DQB1 is the major genetic risk factor for RHD in Aboriginal Australians studied here. Cross-reactive epitopes bind with higher affinity to alpha/beta dimers formed by risk haplotypes, supporting molecular mimicry as the key mechanism of RHD pathogenesis.
Evidence for a long-term protection of wheel-running exercise against cocaine psychomotor sensitization in adolescent but not in young adult mice
Authors: Lespine Louis-Ferdinand , Tirelli Ezio
Published: September 2017

Rodents housed with a running wheel can exhibit attenuated cocaine seeking and cocaine-induced psychomotor activation. However, the longevity of the exercise anti-drug protection and the influence of the developmental stage during which exercise is displayed received little attention. Here, females and males C57BL/6J mice, aged 28 (adolescents) or 77 (young adults) days were housed with (n=56) or without (n=28) a running wheel. After 3 weeks in these conditions, half of the exercised mice were deprived of their wheel (n=28) whereas the other half and the sedentary mice (no wheel) were kept in their respective environments throughout experimentation. After 3 additional weeks, mice were tested for initiation of psychomotor sensitization to 9 once-daily intraperitoneal injections of 8 mg/kg cocaine (following 2 drug-free test sessions). The expression of sensitization was assessed on a single test session 30 days after the last sensitizing cocaine injection. Continuously exercised mice (wheel throughout experimentation) were less responsive to the initiation and the expression of cocaine effects, regardless of the gender and the developmental period during which exercise was introduced. Wheel-running during adolescence attenuated in later life the initiation and the expression of sensitization in females and only its expression in males. In adult females and males, previously-exercised and sedentary mice exhibited indiscernible levels of initiation and expression of sensitization. Thus, the likelihood of the long-term protection of exercise against cocaine vulnerability may depend not only on the gender but also and especially on the period of life in which exercise took place.
clusterSeq: methods for identifying co-expression in high-throughput sequencing data
Authors: Hardcastle Thomas J. , Papatheodorou Irene
Published: September 2017

Summary:

Identifying gene co-expression is a significant step in understanding functional relationships between genes. Existing methods primarily depend on analyses of correlation between pairs of genes; however, this neglects structural elements between experimental conditions. We present a novel approach to identifying clusters of co-expressed genes that incorporates these structures.

Availability:

The methods are released on Bioconductor as the clusterSeq package (https://bioconductor.org/packages/release/bioc/html/clusterSeq.html).

Contact:tjh48@cam.ac.uk
RNA-binding proteins in neurodegeneration: mechanisms in aggregate
Authors: Conlon Erin G. , Manley James L.
Published: September 2017

Neurodegeneration is a leading cause of death in the developed world and a natural, albeit unfortunate, consequence of longer-lived populations. Despite great demand for therapeutic intervention, it is often the case that these diseases are insufficiently understood at the basic molecular level. What little is known has prompted much hopeful speculation about a generalized mechanistic thread that ties these disparate conditions together at the subcellular level and can be exploited for broad curative benefit. In this review, we discuss a prominent theory supported by genetic and pathological changes in an array of neurodegenerative diseases: that neurons are particularly vulnerable to disruption of RNA-binding protein dosage and dynamics. Here we synthesize the progress made at the clinical, genetic, and biophysical levels and conclude that this perspective offers the most parsimonious explanation for these mysterious diseases. Where appropriate, we highlight the reciprocal benefits of cross-disciplinary collaboration between disease specialists and RNA biologists as we envision a future in which neurodegeneration declines and our understanding of the broad importance of RNA processing deepens.
Sasquatch: predicting the impact of regulatory SNPs on transcription factor binding from cell- and tissue-specific DNase footprints
Authors: Schwessinger Ron , Suciu Maria C. , McGowan Simon J. , Telenius Jelena , Taylor Stephen , Higgs Doug R. , Hughes Jim R.
Published: September 2017

In the era of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and personalized medicine, predicting the impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in regulatory elements is an important goal. Current approaches to determine the potential of regulatory SNPs depend on inadequate knowledge of cell-specific DNA binding motifs. Here, we present Sasquatch, a new computational approach that uses DNase footprint data to estimate and visualize the effects of noncoding variants on transcription factor binding. Sasquatch performs a comprehensive k-mer-based analysis of DNase footprints to determine any k-mer's potential for protein binding in a specific cell type and how this may be changed by sequence variants. Therefore, Sasquatch uses an unbiased approach, independent of known transcription factor binding sites and motifs. Sasquatch only requires a single DNase-seq data set per cell type, from any genotype, and produces consistent predictions from data generated by different experimental procedures and at different sequence depths. Here we demonstrate the effectiveness of Sasquatch using previously validated functional SNPs and benchmark its performance against existing approaches. Sasquatch is available as a versatile webtool incorporating publicly available data, including the human ENCODE collection. Thus, Sasquatch provides a powerful tool and repository for prioritizing likely regulatory SNPs in the noncoding genome.
Quantifying adsorption-induced deformation of nanoporous materials on different length scales
Authors: Morak Roland , Braxmeier Stephan , Ludescher Lukas , Putz Florian , Busch Sebastian , Hüsing Nicola , Reichenauer Gudrung , Paris Oskar
Published: September 2017

A newin situsetup combining small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and dilatometry was used to measure water-adsorption-induced deformation of a monolithic silica sample with hierarchical porosity. The sample exhibits a disordered framework consisting of macropores and struts containing two-dimensional hexagonally ordered cylindrical mesopores. The use of an H2O/D2O water mixture with zero scattering length density as an adsorptive allows a quantitative determination of the pore lattice strain from the shift of the corresponding diffraction peak. This radial strut deformation is compared with the simultaneously measured macroscopic length change of the sample with dilatometry, and differences between the two quantities are discussed on the basis of the deformation mechanisms effective at the different length scales. It is demonstrated that the SANS data also provide a facile way to quantitatively determine the adsorption isotherm of the material by evaluating the incoherent scattering contribution of H2O at large scattering vectors.
AFFIRM employees to reduce cynicism in the workplace
Authors: Schraeder Mike , Schraeder Hannah
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the potential value of affirmation as a way that leaders might be able to reduce employee cynicism in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A brief overview of cynicism and possible value of affirmation as a method to reduce cynicism is followed by suggestions for ways that leaders may be able to reduce cynicism through affirmation. Six strategies for reducing cynicism were summarized. These strategies were organized using AFFIRM as an acrostic.

Findings

Leaders may be able to reduce employee cynicism through actions intended to affirm employees. Specifically, it is suggested that leaders can affirm employees through acknowledgement and appreciation, feedback, focus, involvement, respect, and maintaining employee well-being.

Originality/value

This paper framed the strategies for reducing cynicism using AFFIRM as an acrostic for the six strategies. Organizing the recommended strategies of acknowledgement/appreciation, feedback, focus, involvement, respect, and maintaining employee well-being using this methodology may be a beneficial tool for leaders looking for ways to reduce employee cynicism in organizations.
A study for steady nanofluid flow between parallel plates
Authors: Mohyud-din Syed Tauseef , Asad Iqbal Muhammad , Shakeel Muhammad
Published: September 2017

Purpose

In this paper, the authors study the behavior of heat and mass transfer between parallel plates of a steady nanofluid flow in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. In the model of nanofluids, the essential effect of thermophoresis and Brownian motion has been encompassed.

Design/methodology/approach

The variation of parameters method has been exploited to solve the differential equations of nanofluid model. The legitimacy of the variation of parameters method has been corroborated by a comparison of foregoing works by many authors on viscous fluid.

Findings

An analysis of the model is performed for different parameters, namely, viscosity parameter, Brownian parameter, thermophoretic parameter and magnetic parameter.

Originality/value

The variation of parameters method proves to be very effective in solving nonlinear system of ordinary differential equations which frequently arise in fluid mechanics.
Reflexive convention: civil partnership, marriage and family
Authors: Heaphy Brian
Published: September 2017

Drawing on an analysis of qualitative interview data from a study of formalized same‐sex relationships (civil partnerships) this paper examines the enduring significance of marriage and family as social institutions. In doing so, it intervenes in current debates in the sociology of family and personal life about how such institutions are undermined by reflexivity or bolstered by convention. Against the backdrop of dominating sociological frames for understanding the links between the changing nature of marriage and family and same‐sex relationship recognition, the paper analyses the diverse and overlapping ways (including the simple, relational, strategic, ambivalent and critical ways) in which same‐sex partners reflexively constructed and engaged with marriage and family conventions. My analysis suggests that instead of viewing reflexivity and convention as mutually undermining, as some sociologists of family and personal life do, it is insightful to explore how diverse forms of reflexivity and convention interact in everyday life to reconfigure the social institutions of marriage and family, but do not undermine them as such. I argue the case for recognizing the ways in which ‘reflexive convention’, or reflexive investment in convention, contributes to the continuing significance of marriage and family as social institutions.
Nursing Care Disparities in Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Authors: Lake Eileen T. , Staiger Douglas , Edwards Erika Miles , Smith Jessica G. , Rogowski Jeannette A.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To describe the variation across neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in missed nursing care in disproportionately black and non‐black‐serving hospitals. To analyze the nursing factors associated with missing nursing care.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Survey of random samples of licensed nurses in four large U.S. states.

Study Design

This was a retrospective, secondary analysis of 1,037 staff nurses in 134 NICUs classified into three groups based on their percent of infants of black race. Measures included the average patient load, individual nurses’ patient loads, professional nursing characteristics, nurse work environment, and nursing care missed on the last shift.

Data Collection

Survey data from a Multi‐State Nursing Care and Patient Safety Study were analyzed (39 percent response rate).

Principal Findings

The patient‐to‐nurse ratio was significantly higher in high‐black hospitals. Nurses in high‐black NICUs missed nearly 50 percent more nursing care than in low‐black NICUs. Lower nurse staffing (an additional patient per nurse) significantly increased the odds of missed care, while better practice environments decreased the odds.

Conclusions

Nurses in high‐black NICUs face inadequate staffing. They are more likely to miss required nursing care. Improving staffing and workloads may improve the quality of care for the infants born in high‐black hospitals.
Assessment of futility in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Setälä P. , Hoppu S. , Virkkunen I. , Yli‐Hankala A. , Kämäräinen A.
Published: September 2017

Background

Our aim was to evaluate the impact of futile resuscitation attempts to the outcome calculations of attempted resuscitation in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Defined as partial resuscitations, we focused on a subgroup of patients in whom cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was initiated, but further efforts were soon abandoned due to evidence of futility.

Methods

We conducted this study using the Utstein template during a 12‐month study period. We compared the event characteristics between full and partial resuscitation attempts and determined the incidence, survival and neurological outcome.

Results

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) attended a total of 314 OHCA cases. In 34 cases, resuscitation was not attempted due to futility. Seventy‐four cases were partial resuscitation attempts where resuscitation was soon discontinued due to dismal prognostic factors. Partial attempts were associated with an unwitnessed OHCA, prolonged downtime, end‐stage malignant disease, multiple trauma, asystole or pulseless electrical activity as the initial rhythm, and a first responding unit being the first unit on the scene (P < 0.05, respectively). The calculation of survival to hospital discharge rate was 14% and increased 5% when partial resuscitation attempts were excluded from the analysis. Seventy‐four percentage had a Cerebral Performance Category 1–2 at hospital discharge. Shockable initial rhythm, public location and bystander CPR had a positive impact on survival.

Conclusions

Resuscitative efforts were considered futile in 11% of cases and resuscitation was discontinued due to evidence of futility in additional 24% cases based on additional information. Terminating resuscitation should be identified as a separate subgroup of OHCA cases to better reflect the outcome.
Coastal landscapes: The relevance of researching coastscapes for managing coastal change in North Frisia
Authors: Döring Martin , Ratter Beate M. W.
Published: September 2017

Studies on the socio‐cultural dimensions of perceiving and framing landscapes represent a well‐established interdisciplinary field of research cutting across the disciplines of geography, anthropology and sociology. Most studies to date converge in the fact that they theoretically and methodologically revolve around textual and symbolic landscape approaches to investigate underlying social representations and practices permeating the physical land: littoral landscapes – to be understood as a subcategory of landscapes – have however received limited attention to date. The paper takes this gap as a starting point to conceptually explore the intersections of different approaches in landscape research for analysing the manifold bonds coastal inhabitants form with their coastal landscapes. The study draws on semi‐structured interviews conducted with coastal inhabitants in the district of North Frisia (Germany). Interviews were analysed following Grounded Theory and refined by a linguistic indepth investigation to reveal different representations of the North Frisian coastscape nestling in coastal dweller's discourse. The analysis brought about aesthetic, genealogical and other interpretative repertoires saturated with a variety of linguistic characteristics developing locally bound patterns of coastscape attachment. The aim of the paper is twofold: first, it consists of an attempt to analytically combine research undertaken in the area of landscape with research on coastal landscapes to uncover the multifarious relations coastal inhabitants form with their livelihoods. Second, it reflects on the epistemological challenges of research on various coastal landscapes for managing coastal change in terms of a “coast‐multiple”.
Understanding nomadic collaborative learning groups
Authors: Ryberg Thomas , Davidsen Jacob , Hodgson Vivien
Published: September 2017

The paper builds on the work of Rossitto et al. on collaborative nomadic work to develop three categories of practice of nomadic collaborative learning groups. Our study is based on interviews, workshops and observations of two undergraduate student's group practices engaged in self‐organised, long‐term collaborations within the frame of Problem and Project Based Learning. By analysing the patterns of nomadic collaborative learning we identify and discuss how the two groups of students incorporate mobile and digital technologies as well as physical and/or non‐digital technologies into their group work. Specifically, we identify the following categories of nomadic collaborative learning practices: “orchestration of work phases, spaces and activities,” “the orchestration of multiple technologies” and “orchestration of togetherness.” We found that for both groups of students there was a fluidity, situatedness and improvisational aspect to how they negotiate the orchestration of their work. Their ways of utilising space, places, technologies and activities over time was a complex interweaving of the digital and physical. We conclude by suggesting that the three categories of practice identified are important for deepening our understanding of nomadic collaborative learning groups.
A clinical risk score for pulmonary artery thrombosis during acute chest syndrome in adult patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Winchenne Anaïs , Cecchini Jérôme , Deux Jean‐François , De Prost Nicolas , Razazi Keyvan , Carteaux Guillaume , Galacteros Frederic , Habibi Anoosha , Bartolucci Pablo , Melica Giovanna , Khellaf Mehdi , Michel Marc , Maitre Bernard , Mekontso Dessap Armand
Published: September 2017

Pulmonary artery thrombosis (PAT) is involved in lung vascular dysfunction during acute chest syndrome (ACS) complicating sickle cell disease (SCD). No clinical score is available to identify patients eligible for multi‐detector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography during ACS. This retrospective study aimed to develop a risk score for PAT during ACS (PAT‐ACS risk score). Patients with SCD were investigated by MDCT during ACS. A logistic regression was performed to determine independent risks factors for PAT and to build the PAT‐ACS risk score. A total of 43 episodes (11·9%) of PAT were diagnosed in 361 episodes of ACS. Multivariate analysis identified four risk factors, which were included in the PAT‐ACS risk score: a baseline haemoglobin >82 g/l, the lack of a triggering factor for ACS, a platelet count >440 × 109/l and a PaCO2 <38 mmHg at ACS diagnosis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the PAT‐ACS risk score was 0·74 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0·69–0·79) and differed from that of the revised Geneva score (0·63 (95% CI 0·58–0·69); P = 0·04). The negative predictive value of a PAT‐ACS risk score ≥2 was 94%. In conclusion, we propose a simple clinical risk score to identify SCD patients at high risk of PAT during ACS.
Is systems pharmacology ready to impact upon therapy development? A study on the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway
Authors: Benson Helen E , Watterson Steven , Sharman Joanna L , Mpamhanga Chido P , Parton Andrew , Southan Christopher , Harmar Anthony J , Ghazal Peter
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose

An ever‐growing wealth of information on current drugs and their pharmacological effects is available from online databases. As our understanding of systems biology increases, we have the opportunity to predict, model and quantify how drug combinations can be introduced that outperform conventional single‐drug therapies. Here, we explore the feasibility of such systems pharmacology approaches with an analysis of the mevalonate branch of the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway.

Experimental Approach

Using open online resources, we assembled a computational model of the mevalonate pathway and compiled a set of inhibitors directed against targets in this pathway. We used computational optimization to identify combination and dose options that show not only maximal efficacy of inhibition on the cholesterol producing branch but also minimal impact on the geranylation branch, known to mediate the side effects of pharmaceutical treatment.

Key Results

We describe serious impediments to systems pharmacology studies arising from limitations in the data, incomplete coverage and inconsistent reporting. By curating a more complete dataset, we demonstrate the utility of computational optimization for identifying multi‐drug treatments with high efficacy and minimal off‐target effects.

Conclusion and Implications

We suggest solutions that facilitate systems pharmacology studies, based on the introduction of standards for data capture that increase the power of experimental data. We propose a systems pharmacology workflow for the refinement of data and the generation of future therapeutic hypotheses.
Epidemiological and clinical features of adult T‐cell leukemia–lymphoma in Japan, 2010–2011: A nationwide survey
Authors: Nosaka Kisato , Iwanaga Masako , Imaizumi Yoshitaka , Ishitsuka Kenji , Ishizawa Kenichi , Ishida Yoji , Amano Masahiro , Ishida Takashi , Uike Naokuni , Utsunomiya Atae , Ohshima Koichi , Kawai Kazuhiro , Tanaka Junji , Tokura Yoshiki , Tobinai Kensei , Watanabe Toshiki , Uchimaru Kaoru , Tsukasaki Kunihiro
Published: September 2017

Adult T‐cell leukemia–lymphoma (ATL) is a mature T‐cell malignancy associated with human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) infection. Japan is the most endemic country for HTLV‐1 and ATL in the world. Recent nationwide studies of Japanese blood donors reported that HTLV‐1 carriers spread from endemic areas to non‐endemic areas. Therefore, the latest information on nationwide epidemiological and clinical data for ATL is necessary to guide clinical practice. We undertook a multicenter, hospital‐based survey of newly diagnosed ATL patients from 2010 to 2011. A total of 996 patients with ATL were registered from 126 hospitals across Japan. Of those, 922 (487 men and 435 women) were included in the analysis. The median age at diagnosis was 68 years (interquartile range, 60–75 years). Overall, 67.2% of ATL was diagnosed in the Kyushu–Okinawa area. The most common subtype was acute (49.5%), followed by lymphoma (25.7%), chronic (14.2%), and smoldering (10.6%). Lymphoma type was more prevalent in men (60%), whereas chronic was more prevalent in women (60%). Half of patients with lymphoma type were aged over 70 years, whereas one‐third of patients with the chronic type were aged under 60 years. All of these characteristics were different from those of the previous nationwide surveys in the 1980s and 1990s. This survey clarified that half of current patients with ATL are aged over 68 years who were unable to receive intensive cytotoxic therapies. New less toxic agents for aged patients and further strategies to prevent the development of ATL from HTLV‐1 carrier status are needed.
The meaning of play for children and young people with physical disabilities: A systematic thematic synthesis
Authors: Graham N. , Nye C. , Mandy A. , Clarke C. , Morriss‐Roberts C.
Published: September 2017

Background

Children and young people with physical disabilities are often reported to play less than their typically developing peers. Few studies explore the meaning of play from the child's perspective; this study carried out a thematic synthesis of the findings of qualitative studies about the meaning of play following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines.

Methods

A search of CINAHL, AHMED, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ERIC was undertaken between September 2015 and March 2016. Qualitative studies exploring the meaning of play from the perspective of 0‐ to 18‐year‐olds with physical disabilities impacting function were included. Quality appraisal and thematic synthesis were undertaken in order to develop analytical themes.

Results

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria in part addressing the meaning of play for children and young people with physical disabilities. Synthesis of the findings identified 5 analytical themes: Play can feel both positive and negative; play can draw attention towards or away from my disability; play is a social interaction; I participate differently to my peers, and needing help feels normal.

Conclusions

The themes highlight the potential for play experiences of individuals with physical disabilities being overlooked by parents and professionals; further research is needed to explore play experience from these individual's perspective.
The Origins of Children's Growth and Fixed Mindsets: New Research and a New Proposal
Authors: Haimovitz Kyla , Dweck Carol S.
Published: September 2017

Children's mindsets about intelligence (as a quality they can grow vs. a trait they cannot change) robustly influence their motivation and achievement. How do adults foster “growth mindsets” in children? One might assume that adults act in ways that communicate their own mindsets to children. However, new research shows that many parents and teachers with growth mindsets are not passing them on. This article presents a new perspective on why this is the case, and reviews research on adult practices that do instill growth mindsets, concluding that a sustained focus on the process of learning is critical. After discussing key implications and promising future directions, we consider the topic in the context of important societal issues, like high‐stakes testing.