bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group-level integrative complexity: Enhancing differentiation and integration in group decision-making
Authors: Brodbeck Felix C. , Kugler Katharina G. , Fischer Josef A. , Heinze Joerg , Fischer Dorothee
Published: January 2020

Decision-making in organizations is often complex and involves groups, which have access to the pool of perspectives and knowledge their members hold individually. However, groups frequently fail to use their full decision-making potential. The concept of integrative complexity (IC) captures how complex decision-making profits from the differentiation and integration of diverse perspectives and knowledge. In a laboratory experiment with 4 conditions ( N = 12 groups of 4 students per condition), we found that group dissent enhanced differentiation and a stepwise recapitulation of the group discussion enhanced integration, thereby raising group-level IC. Dissent groups who performed a stepwise recapitulation reached the highest levels of group IC compared to ordinary dissent groups, consent groups, and individuals working alone. They also exceeded their own best member and achieved an equal level of IC to that of the best members of nominal groups. The study contributes to the body of research identifying factors that support groups in exploiting their potential and reaching more informed decisions and judgments.
Book review: North, P. and Cato, M.S. 2018: Towards Just and Sustainable Economies: The Social and Solidarity Economy North and South
Authors: Alfranca Oscar
Published: January 2020

North, P. and Cato, M.S. 2018: Towards Just and Sustainable Economies: The Social and Solidarity Economy North and South. Bristol: Policy Press. 317 pp. UK£7.97 (Paperback). ISBN: 978-1-4473-2723-3.
Book review: Biruk, C. 2018: Cooking Data: Culture and Politics in an African Research World
Authors: Natasha S.K.
Published: January 2020

Biruk, C. 2018: Cooking Data: Culture and Politics in an African Research World. Durham and London: Duke University Press. 277 pp. $26.95. ISBN: 9780822370895.
The Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility Interventions on Female Education Development in the Rural Niger Delta Region of Nigeria
Authors: Uduji Joseph I. , Okolo-Obasi Elda N. , Asongu Simplice A.
Published: January 2020

The objective of this investigation was to assess the impact of multinational oil companies’ (MOCs) corporate social responsibility (CSR) interventions in female education programmes in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. A total of 800 rural women were sampled across the region. The results from the logit model showed that rural women depended on CSR interventions of MOCs to address some of the logistical and cultural challenges associated with women’s access to post-secondary education in local communities. However, despite the significant success in supporting education initiatives generally, none of the scholarships target females specifically, and compared to men, the low level of human capital in rural women has persisted. This implies that, if CSR interventions are not tailored to enhance gender diversity and promote economic opportunities for women alongside education, they may perpetuate the obstruction of women’s participation in economic, political and social development. By extension, this could delay the reduction of poverty and attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Niger Delta region.
Similar Patterns, Different Implications: First-Generation and Continuing College Students’ Social Media Use and Its Association With College Social Adjustment
Authors: Yang Chia-chen
Published: January 2020

Social adjustment to college can be challenging, and social networking sites (SNSs) may ease the process. SNSs as an adjustment tool may be particularly useful for those who have relatively limited social support in their proximal environments, such as first-generation college students. This study explored how first-generation and continuing students used Facebook and Instagram, and how their usage was related to college social adjustment. Survey data from 251 undergraduates ( Mage = 19.55; 33% first generation) showed that first-generation students engaged in less Facebook interaction with on-campus friends than continuing students. For both groups, SNS interaction with on-campus friends was related to better social adjustment. Continuing students’ Instagram interaction with family was also related to better adjustment. In contrast, first-generation students’ Instagram interaction with off-campus friends and Instagram broadcasting were both related to poor adjustment. In conclusion, the two groups used SNSs in similar manners, but the implications of SNS use for college adjustment varied by students’ first-generation status.
“The Job Is Yours!” Deconstructing the Gender Gap in Higher Education
Authors: Gomez Angelina M.
Published: January 2020

The underrepresentation of female Administrators in higher education is not decreasing even though education continues to be a field dominated by women. The overall percentage of women leading colleges and universities in the United States remains disproportionately low at 26%. This ambiguous case study examines whether or not the Higher Education Administration continues to perpetuate gender inequalities through simplistic and, often times, unconscious hiring and mentoring practices scaffolding upon good intentions.
A study on customer’s preference toward summer-shirt fabric
Authors: Zhao Yu , Yin Le , Ikiz Yuksel , Sato Tetsuya , Yu Qiuyu , Zhang Zufang , Zhu Kairong , Li Qing
Published: January 2020

The understanding of preferences toward fabrics is an important step of understanding consumer behavior of apparel. This article presents a work to study the preferences toward summer-shirt fabrics and their characteristics, particularly the gender impact, visual impact, and tactile impact toward the preference of fabrics are separately studied. Furthermore, the stability of the preference from different genders was investigated as well. To achieve these goals, the visual system and the tactile system were employed for testing male and female preferences of fabrics and the characteristics of fabrics. The two contributions of this work are as follows: (1) the factors which impact the preference of a fabric were figured out, and their relationship become a good reference for an apparel designer, and with them, a piece of apparel with preferred fabrics is able to be produced; and (2) the textile development regarding the visual sense and tactile sense will become more targeted and customized in favoring different customers.
Image recognition in online monitoring of power equipment
Authors: Wu Guifeng , Yu Miao , Shi Wangwang , Li Shengquan , Bao Jiatong
Published: January 2020

The application of remote digital video surveillance and image recognition technology in online monitoring of power equipment is conducive to timely equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. In order to solve the problem of slow speed and large amount of computation of traditional template matching algorithm for power image recognition, a second template matching algorithm for fast recognition of target image is proposed in this article. Firstly, a quarter of the template data is taken and matched within a quarter of the source image, and a reasonable error threshold is given in the matching process. Then, the neighborhood of the minimum error point in rough matching is matched to get the final result. Finally, the algorithm is applied to identify the power equipment and detect the abnormal state of the power equipment. The experimental results show that the matching algorithm can not only accurately locate and identify power equipment and detect equipment faults, but also greatly improve the matching speed compared with other commonly used template matching algorithms.
Evodiamine reduced peripheral hypersensitivity on the mouse with nerve injury or inflammation
Authors: Zhang Wen-Dong , Chen Xiao-Ying , Wu Cheng , Lian Yan-Na , Wang Yong-Jie , Wang Jing-Hua , Yang Fan , Liu Chun-Hui , Li Xiang-Yao
Published: January 2020

Management of chronic pain is still hard, and new analgesic drugs are needed. Evodiamine (Evo) and rutaecarpine (Rut) are two major active components of Evodia rutaecarpa, a Chinese traditional medicine that has been used as an analgesic for a long time. However, their effects on peripheral hypersensitivity remain unknown. Similar to capsaicin, the Evo and Rut were docked to the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) in molecular simulation experiments. Moreover, Evo (10 µM) and Rut (50 µM) activated TRPV1 on human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells in electrophysiological recording experiments. Behaviorally, the application of Evo and Rut reduced peripheral hypersensitivity in a dose-dependent manner, which was blocked by capsazepine (a selective inhibitor of TRPV1). Furthermore, both Evo and Rut increased time in the open arms of the elevated plus maze on mice with nerve injury. These observations suggested that Evo and Rut reduced peripheral hypersensitivity and anxiety in mice with nerve injury or inflammation via TRPV1.
Synthesis and anticholinesterase activities of novel glycosyl benzoxazole derivatives
Authors: Wu Yu-Ran , Ren Shu-Ting , Wang Lei , Wang You-Xian , Liu Shu-Hao , Liu Wei-Wei , Shi Da-Hua , Cao Zhi-Ling
Published: January 2020

Eight glycosyl benzoxazole derivatives are synthesized by nucleophilic addition reactions of glycosyl isothiocyanate with o-aminophenol in tetrahydrofuran. The reaction conditions are optimized, and good yields (86%–94%) were obtained. The structures of all new products are confirmed by infrared, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (electrospray ionization). In addition, the in vitro cholinesterase inhibitory activities of these new compounds are tested by Ellman’s method.
Cross-National Comparison of Environmental Factors Important to Facility-Based Senior Living
Authors: Wang Zhe
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Focusing on environmental factors important to facility-based senior living, this research intends to identify cross-national similarities and differences in perspective on elderly care between senior-living professionals in the United States and China.

Background:

American models of senior-living facility design have been introduced in China. In social and cultural context, environmental factors important to facility-based senior living are expected to be different by nation and need to be clarified.

Method:

Questionnaire data were collected from 188 staff members working in senior-living facilities in the United States and China. Seven factors summarized through literature review were investigated. The frequencies of each factor selected by the participants as one of the three most important factors were ranked. The influence of personal and social factors on environmental perception was analyzed using analysis of variance tests.

Results:

Common area and cross-facility home-like decoration were similarly valued by both groups as two of the three most important factors. Residential room was valued more in the United States whereas natural lighting was valued more in China. Chinese participants with more work experience valued building layout more. Amenities were valued less than expected in both countries.

Conclusion:

Environmental factors important to facility-based senior living are different between countries. American models of senior-living facility design should be adjusted for use in China. There is much to be gained from investigating the similarities and differences in perspective on elderly care.
Impact of Workforce Diversity Management on Employees’ Outcomes: Testing the Mediating Role of a person’s Job Match
Authors: Li Wenjing , Wang Xuhui , Haque Md Jamirul , Shafique Muhammad Noman , Nawaz Muhammad Zahid
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study is to (a) investigate the impact of workforce diversity management on job match, job satisfaction, and job performance; (b) test the influencing role of job match on job satisfaction and job performance; and (c) examine the mediating role of a person’s job match on the association between workforce diversity management and employees’ outcomes (job satisfaction and job performance). Structured questionnaires were sent to employees working in five-star hotels in China. In total, 324 valid responses were analyzed through AMOS-SEM to draw the statistical conclusion. Overall, results revealed that workforce diversity management is positively related to a person’s job match, job satisfaction, and job performance. Next, a person’s job match is positively related to job satisfaction and job performance, in particular a person’s job match mediates the relationship between workforce diversity management and employees’ outcomes. Most of the studies in the area of workforce diversity management focused on the management of diversity such as age, gender, race, and ethnicity from American perspective. This could be among rare studies which investigate another aspect of workforce diversity management, such as management of diversity on the basis of skills, knowledge, interest, and preferences of employees from the Chinese perspective.
Outsiders in the Experts’ World: A Grounded Theory Study of Consumers and the Social World of Health Care
Authors: Chamberlain-Salaun Jennifer , Usher Kim , Mills Jane
Published: January 2020

This article presents findings from a grounded theory study, which investigated interactions between health professionals and consumers. The authors used Corbin and Strauss’s evolved version of grounded theory, which is underpinned by symbolic interactionism. The study sample included 23 consumers and nine health professionals. Data collection methods included demographic questionnaires, interviews, consumer diaries, digital storytelling, observations, and field notes. Data analysis was conducted using essential grounded theory methods. The resultant grounded theory consists of five categories: (a) Unexpected entrance, (b) Learning a new role, (c) Establishing a presence, (d) Confronting the dichotomy of “us and them,” and (e) Tailored care. Findings suggest that despite consumers and health professionals’ roles, consumers are outsiders in the social world of health care. Progress toward empowered consumers who are in control of their health and health care is slow and care that is truly consumer-centered is still the exception not the rule.
Chondromas of the Lumbar Spine: A Systematic Review
Authors: Robles Luis A. , Mundis Greg M.
Published: January 2020

Study Design:

Systematic review and illustrative case.

Objectives:

Lumbar spinal chondromas (LSCs) are rare spine tumors. The characteristics of these intraspinal lesions are not well described in the literature. The goal of this article is to describe the features of this rare spinal tumor.

Methods:

A PubMed and Scopus search adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was performed to include studies reporting patients with LSCs. The data gathered from this review was analyzed to characterize LSCs.

Results:

The search yielded 14 cases of patients with LSCs. All studies were case reports (Level V of evidence). Different characteristics of LSCs are described, including demographics, clinical findings, imaging, and treatment.

Conclusions:

The results of this review show that LSCs are almost exclusively seen in the extradural space and may adopt a dumbbell shape. LSCs frequently manifest in a very similar way to lumbar disc herniations; therefore, they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sciatica, especially if magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium shows peripheral rim enhancement of the lesion. Different degrees of improvement are usually observed after surgical treatment of these patients.
Return to Sport After Criteria-Based Rehabilitation of Acute Adductor Injuries in Male Athletes: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Serner Andreas , Weir Adam , Tol Johannes L. , Thorborg Kristian , Lanzinger Sean , Otten Roald , Hölmich Per
Published: January 2020

Background:

Despite being one of the most common sports injuries, there are no criteria-based rehabilitation programs published for acute adductor injuries.

Purpose:

To evaluate return-to-sport (RTS) outcomes and reinjuries after criteria-based rehabilitation for athletes with acute adductor injuries.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Male adult athletes with an acute adductor injury underwent a supervised, standardized criteria-based exercise rehabilitation program. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to grade the injury extent from 0 (negative finding) to 3 (complete tear/avulsion). There were 3 milestones used to evaluate the RTS continuum: (1) clinically pain-free, (2) completion of controlled sports training, and (3) return to full team training. Subsequent injuries were registered within the first year.

Results:

We included 81 athletes with an acute adductor injury (MRI grade 0: n = 14; grade 1: n = 20; grade 2: n = 30; grade 3: n = 17). Of these, 61 (75%) athletes achieved RTS milestone 1, 50 (62%) achieved RTS milestone 2, and 75 (93%) achieved RTS milestone 3. There were no statistical differences in the RTS duration between MRI grade 0, 1, and 2 at any RTS milestone; thus, these were grouped together as grade 0-2. The median time (interquartile range [IQR]) for athletes with grade 0-2 injuries to become clinically pain-free was 13 days (IQR, 11-21 days), to complete controlled sports training was 17 days (IQR, 15-27 days), and to return to full team training was 18 days (IQR, 14-27 days). For athletes with a grade 3 injury, median times were 55 days (IQR, 31-75 days), 68 days (IQR, 51-84 days), and 78 days (IQR, 68-98 days), respectively. The overall 1-year reinjury rate was 8%. Athletes who achieved RTS milestone 1 had a statistically significantly lower reinjury rate than athletes who did not (5% vs 21%, respectively; ϕ = –0.233; P = .048). Athletes who achieved RTS milestone 2 had a nonstatistically significantly lower reinjury rate than athletes who did not (6% vs 13%, respectively; ϕ = –0.107; P = .366).

Conclusion:

We analyzed the results of a criteria-based rehabilitation protocol for athletes with acute adductor injuries. Athletes with an MRI grade 0-2 adductor injury were clinically pain-free after approximately 2 weeks and returned to full team training after approximately 3 weeks. Most athletes with an MRI grade 3 adductor injury were pain-free and returned to full team training within 3 months. Meeting the clinically pain-free criteria resulted in fewer reinjuries compared with not meeting the criteria.
A new perspective and method for  understanding the relationship between characters and words in the Shang dynasty
Authors: Zhu Shengyu
Published: January 2020

Relationships between characters and words can be divided into two levels, the relationship among characters and the relationship among words – one of the core problems in Chinese philology. The relationships in Oracle Bone Inscriptions (OBIs) are very complicated due to the diversity of the configurations of graphs and the unclearness of phonetic information, which cause great difficulty in the study of these relationships, including whether characters are variants or have distinct meanings. OBIs have their own particularity, namely, a high degree of hieroglyphics. When studying the relationship between characters and words in OBIs, we are limited to actual divination materials and exploration of characters’ design intention. In this regard, relevant theories and methods in cognitive linguistics provide reference. In terms of characters, graphemes in the lao 牢-set, xian 陷-set, zhu 逐-set, kan 坎-set and che 车-set are visually distinct, but in terms of language are variants representing one word.
Building a norm-referenced dataset for vocabulary assessment based on Chinese vocD and word classes
Authors: Zhang Yibin , Zhou Jing
Published: January 2020

Exploration of trajectories of expressive language samples is essential for understanding potential indicators for language disorder assessment. This study examined conversational language samples from 341 typically developing Mandarin-speaking children aged 3–7. Through analysis of lexical diversity and word classes, a norm-referenced dataset for vocabulary assessment was built, including indicators such as vocD and the types and tokens of nouns, verbs, measures, adverbs, conjunctions and prepositions. As norm-referenced indicators for the language development of children speaking Mandarin, these developmental data could also inform clinical therapists about the direction of intervention for children with vocabulary deficits.
Determining the nature of Taliu Script and its value for the study of early writing
Authors: Wang Yuanlu
Published: January 2020

Taliu 他留 symbols are a recently discovered early writing system. Many aspects of this early writing system are relevant to the study of the history of early writing. There are several topics relating to Taliu Script that are deserving of scholarly investigation and research. For example, within the study of early writing, research on Taliu Script is especially relevant to the scholarly discussion of the “initial stage of early writing.”
von Willebrand factor/ADAMTS13 ratio at presentation of acute ischemic brain injury is predictive of outcome
Authors: Taylor Alice , Vendramin Chiara , Singh Deepak , Brown Martin M. , Scully Marie
Published: January 2020

Acute ischemic stroke (IS) and transient ischemic attack (TIA) are associated with raised von Willebrand factor (VWF) and decreased ADAMTS13 activity (ADAMTS13Ac). Their impact on mortality and morbidity is unclear. We conducted a prospective investigation of the VWF-ADAMTS13 axis in 292 adults (acute IS, n = 103; TIA, n = 80; controls, n = 109) serially from presentation until >6 weeks. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Score (NIHSS) and modified Rankin scale (mRS) were used to assess stroke severity. Presenting median VWF antigen (VWF:Ag)/ADAMTS13Ac ratios were: IS, 2.42 (range, 0.78-9.53); TIA, 1.89 (range, 0.41-8.14); and controls, 1.69 (range, 0.25-15.63). Longitudinally, the median VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio decreased (IS, 2.42 to 1.66; P = .0008; TIA, 1.89 to 0.65; P < .0001). The VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio was higher at presentation in IS patients who died (3.683 vs 2.014; P < .0001). A presenting VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio >2.6 predicted mortality (odds ratio, 6.33; range, 2.22-18.1). Those with a VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio in the highest quartile (>3.091) had 31% increased risk mortality. VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio at presentation of ischemic brain injury was associated with higher mRS (P = .021) and NIHSS scores (P = .029) at follow-up. Thrombolysis resulted in prompt reduction of the VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio and significant improvement in mRS on follow-up. A raised VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio at presentation of acute IS or TIA is associated with increased mortality and poorer functional outcome. A ratio of 2.6 seems to differentiate outcome. Prompt reduction in the ratio in thrombolysed patients was associated with decreased mortality and morbidity. The VWF:Ag/ADAMTS13Ac ratio is a biomarker for the acute impact of an ischemic event and longer-term outcome.
Beyond Seek and Destroy: how to Generate Allelic Series Using Genome Editing Tools
Authors: Herbert Leo , Meunier Anne-Cécile , Bes Martine , Vernet Aurore , Portefaix Murielle , Durandet Franz , Michel Remy , Chaine Christian , This Patrice , Guiderdoni Emmanuel , Périn Christophe
Published: January 2020

Genome editing tools have greatly facilitated the functional analysis of genes of interest by targeted mutagenesis. Many usable genome editing tools, including different site-specific nucleases and editor databases that allow single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to be introduced at a given site, are now available. These tools can be used to generate high allelic diversity at a given locus to facilitate gene function studies, including examining the role of a specific protein domain or a single amino acid. We compared the effects, efficiencies and mutation types generated by our LbCPF1, SpCAS9 and base editor (BECAS9) constructs for theOsCAO1gene. SpCAS9 and LbCPF1 have similar efficiencies in generating mutations but differ in the types of mutations induced, with the majority of changes being single-nucleotide insertions and short deletions for SpCAS9 and LbCPF1, respectively. The proportions of heterozygotes also differed, representing a majority in our LbCPF1, while with SpCAS9, we obtained a large number of biallelic mutants. Finally, we demonstrated that it is possible to specifically introduce stop codons using the BECAS9 with an acceptable efficiency of approximately 20%. Based on these results, a rational choice among these three alternatives may be made depending on the type of mutation that one wishes to introduce, the three systems being complementary. SpCAS9 remains the best choice to generate KO mutations in primary transformants, while if the desired gene mutation interferes with regeneration or viability, the use of our LbCPF1 construction will be preferred, because it produces mainly heterozygotes. LbCPF1 has been described in other studies as being as effective as SpCAS9 in generating homozygous and biallelic mutations. It will remain to be clarified in the future, whether the different LbCFP1 constructions have different efficiencies and determine the origin of these differences. Finally, if one wishes to specifically introduce stop codons, BECAS9 is a viable and efficient alternative, although it has a lower efficiency than SpCAS9 and LbCPF1 for creating KO mutations.
Development of the software tool Sample Size for Arbitrary Distributions and exemplarily applying it for calculating minimum numbers of moss samples used as accumulation indicators for atmospheric deposition
Authors: Wosniok Werner , Nickel Stefan , Schröder Winfried
Published: January 2020

Background

Do we measure enough to calculate statistically valid characteristic values from random sample measurements, or do we measure too much—without any further increase in knowledge? This question is actually one of the key issues of every empirical measurement design, but is rarely investigated in environmental monitoring.

Results

In this study, the methodology used for the design of the German Moss Survey 2015 network to determine statistically valid minimum sample numbers (MSN) for the calculation of the arithmetic mean value in compliance with certain accuracy requirements was further developed for data that are neither normally nor lognormally distributed. The core element of the procedure for estimating MSN without prerequisite to the distribution of data is an iterative Monte Carlo simulation. The methodological principle consists of using reference data (values measured in Moss Surveys preceding that in 2015) for a series of MSN candidate values to determine what accuracy would be achieved with these, and then calculating the MSN with which the specified accuracy requirement is met from a quadratic function between MSN candidates and their accuracy. The program Sample Size for Arbitrary Distributions (SSAD) was developed for the calculation of the MSN in the open programming language R.

Conclusions

The SSAD procedure closes a gap in the existing methodology for calculating statistically valid minimum sample numbers.
How to study runs of homozygosity using PLINK? A guide for analyzing medium density SNP data in livestock and pet species
Authors: Meyermans R. , Gorssen W. , Buys N. , Janssens S.
Published: January 2020

Background

PLINK is probably the most used program for analyzing SNP genotypes and runs of homozygosity (ROH), both in human and in animal populations. The last decade, ROH analyses have become the state-of-the-art method for inbreeding assessment. In PLINK, the --homozyg function is used to perform ROH analyses and relies on several input settings. These settings can have a large impact on the outcome and default values are not always appropriate for medium density SNP array data. Guidelines for a robust and uniform ROH analysis in PLINK using medium density data are lacking, albeit these guidelines are vital for comparing different ROH studies. In this study, 8 populations of different livestock and pet species are used to demonstrate the importance of PLINK input settings. Moreover, the effects of pruning SNPs for low minor allele frequencies and linkage disequilibrium on ROH detection are shown.

Results

We introduce the genome coverage parameter to appropriately estimate FROH and to check the validity of ROH analyses. The effect of pruning for linkage disequilibrium and low minor allele frequencies on ROH analyses is highly population dependent and such pruning may result in missed ROH. PLINK’s minimal density requirement is crucial for medium density genotypes and if set too low, genome coverage of the ROH analysis is limited. Finally, we provide recommendations for the maximal gap, scanning window length and threshold settings.

Conclusions

In this study, we present guidelines for an adequate and robust ROH analysis in PLINK on medium density SNP data. Furthermore, we advise to report parameter settings in publications, and to validate them prior to analysis. Moreover, we encourage authors to report genome coverage to reflect the ROH analysis’ validity. Implementing these guidelines will substantially improve the overall quality and uniformity of ROH analyses.
Diverse biological processes coordinate the transcriptional response to nutritional changes in a Drosophila melanogaster multiparent population
Authors: Ng’oma E. , Williams-Simon P. A. , Rahman A. , King E. G.
Published: January 2020

Background

Environmental variation in the amount of resources available to populations challenge individuals to optimize the allocation of those resources to key fitness functions. This coordination of resource allocation relative to resource availability is commonly attributed to key nutrient sensing gene pathways in laboratory model organisms, chiefly the insulin/TOR signaling pathway. However, the genetic basis of diet-induced variation in gene expression is less clear.

Results

To describe the natural genetic variation underlying nutrient-dependent differences, we used an outbred panel derived from a multiparental population, theDrosophilaSynthetic Population Resource. We analyzed RNA sequence data from multiple female tissue samples dissected from flies reared in three nutritional conditions: high sugar (HS), dietary restriction (DR), and control (C) diets. A large proportion of genes in the experiment (19.6% or 2471 genes) were significantly differentially expressed for the effect of diet, and 7.8% (978 genes) for the effect of the interaction between diet and tissue type (LRT,Padj.< 0.05). Interestingly, we observed similar patterns of gene expression relative to the C diet, in the DR and HS treated flies, a response likely reflecting diet component ratios. Hierarchical clustering identified 21 robust gene modules showing intra-modularly similar patterns of expression across diets, all of which were highly significant for diet or diet-tissue interaction effects (FDRPadj.< 0.05). Gene set enrichment analysis for different diet-tissue combinations revealed a diverse set of pathways and gene ontology (GO) terms (two-sample t-test, FDR < 0.05). GO analysis on individual co-expressed modules likewise showed a large number of terms encompassing many cellular and nuclear processes (Fisher exact test,Padj.< 0.01). Although a handful of genes in the IIS/TOR pathway includingIlp5,Rheb, andSirt2showed significant elevation in expression, many key genes such asInR,chico, most insulin peptide genes, and the nutrient-sensing pathways were not observed.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that a more diverse network of pathways and gene networks mediate the diet response in our population. These results have important implications for future studies focusing on diet responses in natural populations.
Functional and population genetic features of copy number variations in two dairy cattle populations
Authors: Lee Young-Lim , Bosse Mirte , Mullaart Erik , Groenen Martien A. M. , Veerkamp Roel F. , Bouwman Aniek C.
Published: January 2020

Background

Copy Number Variations (CNVs) are gain or loss of DNA segments that are known to play a role in shaping a wide range of phenotypes. In this study, we used two dairy cattle populations, Holstein Friesian and Jersey, to discover CNVs using the Illumina BovineHD Genotyping BeadChip aligned to the ARS-UCD1.2 assembly. The discovered CNVs were investigated for their functional impact and their population genetics features.

Results

We discovered 14,272 autosomal CNVs, which were aggregated into 1755 CNV regions (CNVR) from 451 animals. These CNVRs together cover 2.8% of the bovine autosomes. The assessment of the functional impact of CNVRs showed that rare CNVRs (MAF < 0.01) are more likely to overlap with genes, than common CNVRs (MAF ≥ 0.05). The Population differentiation index (Fst) based on CNVRs revealed multiple highly diverged CNVRs between the two breeds. Some of these CNVRs overlapped with candidate genes such asMGAMandADAMTS17genes,which are related to starch digestion and body size, respectively. Lastly, linkage disequilibrium (LD) between CNVRs and BovineHD BeadChip SNPs was generally low, close to 0, although common deletions (MAF ≥ 0.05) showed slightly higher LD (r2 = ~ 0.1 at 10 kb distance) than the rest. Nevertheless, this LD is still lower than SNP-SNP LD (r2 = ~ 0.5 at 10 kb distance).

Conclusions

Our analyses showed that CNVRs detected using BovineHD BeadChip arrays are likely to be functional. This finding indicates that CNVs can potentially disrupt the function of genes and thus might alter phenotypes. Also, the population differentiation index revealed two candidate genes,MGAMandADAMTS17, which hint at adaptive evolution between the two populations. Lastly, low CNVR-SNP LD implies that genetic variation from CNVs might not be fully captured in routine animal genetic evaluation, which relies solely on SNP markers.
Genome-wide identification and expression of GRAS gene family members in cassava
Authors: Shan Zhongying , Luo Xinglu , Wu Meiyan , Wei Limei , Fan Zhupeng , Zhu Yanmei
Published: January 2020

Background

Cassava is highly tolerant to stressful conditions, especially drought stress conditions; however, the mechanisms underlying this tolerance are poorly understood. The GRAS gene family is a large family of transcription factors that are involved in regulating the growth, development, and stress responses of plants. Currently, GRAS transcription factors have not been systematically studied in cassava, which is the sixth most important crop in the world.

Results

Seventy-sevenMeGRASgenes were identified from the cassava genome database. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the MeGRAS proteins could be divided into 14 subfamilies. The gene structure and motif compositions of the proteins were considerably conserved within the same subfamily. Duplication events, particularly segmental duplication, were identified as the main driving force forGRASgene expansion in cassava. Global expression analysis revealed thatMeGRASgenes exhibited similar or distinct expression profiles within different tissues among different varieties. Moreover, qRT-PCR analysis revealed the expression patterns ofMeGRASgenes in response to abiotic stress (drought, salt, cold, and H2O2), and the results suggest that these genes may have multiple functions.

Conclusion

This study is the first to provide comprehensive information on GRAS gene family members in cassava. The data will increase our understanding of both the molecular basis and the effects ofGRASgenes. In addition, the results will contribute further to identifying the responses to various environmental conditions and provide insights into the potential functions ofGRASgenes.
Aberrant right coronary artery in a grown up congenital cardiac patient, successfully treated 46 years earlier with a double Starr-Edwards silastic ball valve replacement: a case report
Authors: Ponsiglione Andrea , Spagnuolo Gianrico , Spagnuolo Gabriella , Stanzione Arnaldo , Nappi Carmela , Dell’Aversana Serena , Spagnuolo Antonio , Cuocolo Alberto , Imbriaco Massimo
Published: January 2020

Background

The Starr-Edwards ball valve prosthesis was successfully introduced in 1961–62 and largely used for aortic and mitral valve replacement. Even if Starr-Edwards valves have been widely replaced in clinical practice by other mechanical valves, they define a standard concerning long-term durability.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 55-year-old man referred to our Department to perform a cardiac computed tomography (CCT), to better evaluate a severe dilation of ascending aorta discovered at echocardiography. The patient had been surgically treated 46 years earlier to correct a supra-cristal type ventricular septal defect. Both mitral and aortic valves were replaced, respectively due to bacterial mitral endocarditis and a fibrous sub-valvular aortic stenosis. In addition, the right coronary artery (RCA) was found to arise from the left coronary sinus.

Conclusion

We report the longest lasting durability (46 years) of aortic and mitral Starr-Edwards valves successfully implanted in a patient simultaneously carrying a malignant anomalous origin of RCA.
A qualitative study on conveyance decision-making during emergency call outs to people with dementia: the HOMEWARD project
Authors: Voss Sarah , Brandling Janet , Pollard Katherine , Taylor Hazel , Black Sarah , Buswell Marina , Cheston Richard , Cullum Sarah , Foster Theresa , Kirby Kim , Prothero Larissa , Purdy Sarah , Solway Chris , Benger Jonathan
Published: January 2020

Background

Paramedics are increasingly required to make complex decisions as to whether they should convey a patient to hospital or manage their condition at the scene. Dementia can be a significant barrier to the assessment process. However, to our knowledge no research has specifically examined the process of decision-making by paramedics in relation to people with dementia. This qualitative study was designed to investigate the factors influencing the decision-making process during Emergency Medical Services (EMS) calls to older people with dementia who did not require immediate clinical treatment.

Methods

This qualitative study used a combination of observation, interview and document analysis to investigate the factors influencing the decision-making process during EMS calls to older people with dementia. A researcher worked alongside paramedics in the capacity of observer and recruited eligible patients to participate in case studies. Data were collected from observation notes of decision-making during the incident, patient care records and post incident interviews with participants, and analysed thematically.

Findings

Four main themes emerged from the data concerning the way that paramedics make conveyance decisions when called to people with dementia: 1) Physical condition; the key factor influencing paramedics’ decision-making was the physical condition of the patient. 2) Cognitive capacity; most of the participants preferred not to remove patients with a diagnosis of dementia from surroundings familiar to them, unless they deemed it absolutely essential. 3) Patient circumstances; this included the patient’s medical history and the support available to them. 4) Professional influences; participants also drew on other perspectives, such as advice from colleagues or information from the patient’s General Practitioner, to inform their decision-making.

Conclusion

The preference for avoiding unnecessary conveyance for patients with dementia, combined with difficulties in obtaining an accurate patient medical history and assessment, mean that decision-making can be particularly problematic for paramedics. Further research is needed to find reliable ways of assessing patients and accessing information to support conveyance decisions for EMS calls to people with dementia.
Patient-related factors associated with an increased risk of being a reported case of preventable harm in first-line health care: a case-control study
Authors: Fernholm Rita , Holzmann Martin J. , Wachtler Caroline , Szulkin Robert , Carlsson Axel C. , Pukk Härenstam Karin
Published: January 2020

Background

Patient safety issues in primary health care and in emergency departments have not been as thoroughly explored as patient safety issues in the hospital setting. Knowledge is particularly sparse regarding which patients have a higher risk of harm in these settings. The objective was to evaluate which patient-related factors were associated with risk of harm in patients with reports of safety incidents.

Methods

A case–control study performed in primary health care and emergency departments in Sweden. In total, 4536 patients (cases) and 44,949 controls were included in this study. Cases included patients with reported preventable harm in primary health care and emergency departments from January 1st, 2011 until December 31st, 2016.

Results

Psychiatric disease, including all psychiatric diagnoses regardless of severity, nearly doubled the risk of being a reported case of preventable harm (odds ratio, 1.96; p < 0.001). Adjusted for income and education there was still an increased risk (odds ratio, 1.69; p < 0.001). The preventable harm in this group was to 46% diagnostic errors of somatic disease.

Conclusion

Patients with psychiatric illness are at higher risk of preventable harm in primary care and the emergency department. Therefore, this group needs extra attention to prevent harm.
Quantitative comparison of two-dimensional and three-dimensional strain measurement using MRI feature tracking in repair Fontan patients and normal child volunteers
Authors: Hu Liwei , Wang Qian , Gregory Barton P. , Ouyang Rong Zhen , Sun Aimin , Guo Chen , Han Tongtong , Zhong Yumin
Published: January 2020

Background

The accuracy of 2D and 3D strain analyses was evaluated by comparing strain and cardiac function parameters in Fontan repair patients and normal child volunteers.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 32 patients with Fontan circulation and 32 child volunteers who had undergone clinical cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) assessment of the dominant ventricle with a 1.5-Tesla MRI scanner. Global and regional strain (2D and 3D) of the dominant ventricle in both groups was assessed using CMR feature-tracking. Correlations between cardiac function and strain data were assessed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient values. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV) were determined to evaluate repeatability and agreement.

Results

The 2D GLS showed significant differences between the Fontan repair patients and volunteers (− 16.49 ± 5.00 vs. -19.49 ± 2.03; p = 0.002). The 2D GRS and 2D GCS showed no significant differences between two groups. 2D GRS: 38.96 ± 14.48 vs. 37.46 ± 7.77; 2D GCS: − 17.64 ± 5.00 vs. -16.89 ± 2.96, respectively; p > 0.05). The 3D global radial strain (GRS), global circumferential strain (GCS), and global longitudinal strain (GLS) showed significant differences between the Fontan repair patients and volunteers (3D GRS: 36.35 ± 16.72 vs. 44.96 ± 9.98; 3D GLS: − 8.86 ± 6.84 vs. -13.67 ± 2.44; 3D GCS: − 13.70 ± 7.84 vs. -18.01 ± 1.78; p < 0.05, respectively). The ejection fraction (EF) and 3D GCS were significantly associated (r = − 0.491, p = 0.004). The 3D GCS showed correlations with the indexed end-diastolic volume (EDV) (r = 0.523, p = 0.002) and indexed end-systolic volume (ESV) (r = 0.602, p < 0.001). 3D strain showed good reproducibility, with GCS showing the best inter-observer agreement (ICC = 0.87 and CoV = 5.15), followed by GLS (ICC = 0.84 and CoV = 5.36).

Conclusions

3D GCS is feasible, highly reproducible, and strongly correlated with conventional cardiac function measures. 3D GCS assessments may be useful for monitoring abnormal myocardial motion in patients with Fontan circulation.
Ambrisentan use in a HIV-1 infected patient with end-stage renal disease and pulmonary hypertension: minimal removal by hemodialysis - a case report
Authors: Santos José Ramón , Merino Ana , Haefeli Walter E. , Miranda Cristina , Prats Marisol , Bancu Ioana , Bailón Lucía , Moltó José
Published: January 2020

Background

Ambrisentan is a selective endothelin receptor antagonist used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Little is known about ambrisentan removal by hemodialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Case presentation

A 53-year-old woman with HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infection, PAH and ESRD on regular hemodialyis was admitted in our hospital due to refractory heart failure while on treatment with bosentan (125 mg twice daily) and tadalafil (20 mg once daily) for PAH and antiretroviral treatment (cART) including darunavir/cobicistat (800/150 mg once daily). Excessive exposure to bosentan due to drug interactions between bosentan and darunavir/cobicistat was suspected. Bosentan was replaced by ambrisentan, with progressive improvement in her clinical condition. Pre- and postdialyzer cocentrations of ambrisentan in plasma were determined and hemodialysis extraction ratio for ambrisentan was 2%.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that hemodialysis results in minimal ambrisentan removal, and therefore no specific ambrisentan dosage adjustment seems to be required in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Advanced ultrasound methods in assessment of carotid plaque instability: a prospective multimodal study
Authors: Zamani M. , Skagen K. , Scott H. , Russell D. , Skjelland M.
Published: January 2020

Background

A significant proportion of ischemic strokes are caused by emboli from atherosclerotic, unstable carotid artery plaques. The selection of patients for endarterectomy in current clinical practice is primarily based on the degree of carotid artery stenosis and clinical symptoms. However, the content of the plaque is known to be more important for stroke risk. Intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) has recently emerged as a possible surrogate marker for plaque instability. Neo-microvessels from the adventitial vasa vasorum grow into the full thickness of the vessel wall in an adaptive response to hypoxia, causing subsequent intraplaque haemorrhage and plaque rupture. Conventional ultrasound cannot detect IPN. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound and Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI), have, however, shown promise in IPN assessment. Recent research using Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) has also reported reduced tissue stiffness in the artery wall (reduced mean Young’s modulus) in unstable compared to stable plaques. The purpose of this study is to identify unstable carotid artery plaques at risk of rupture and future ischemic stroke risk using multimodal assessments.

Methods

Forty five symptomatic and 45 asymptomatic patients > 18 years, with > 50% carotid stenosis referred to Oslo University Hospital ultrasound lab will be included in this on-going project. Patients will undergo contrast enhanced ultrasound, SMI, carotid-MRI and PET-(18F-FDG). Contrast enhanced ultrasound will be analyzed semi-quantitatively (5-levels visual classification) and quantitatively by plotting time-intensity curve analyses to obtain plaque peak contrast enhancement intensity. Plaques removed at carotid endarterectomy will be assessed histologically and the number of microvessels, areas of inflammation, granulation, calcification, lipid and fibrosis will be measured.

Discussion

This multimodality study will primarily provide information on the clinical value of advanced ultrasound methods (SMI, SWE) for the detection of unstable carotid artery plaque in comparison with other methods including contrast-enhanced ultrasound, carotid-MRI and PET-(18F-FDG) using histology as the gold standard. Secondly, findings from the methods mentioned above will be related to cerebrovascular symptoms, blood tests (leukocytes, CRP, ESR, lipoproteins and inflammatory markers) and cardiovascular risk factors at inclusion and at 1-year follow-up. The overall aim is to optimize detection of plaque instability which can lead to better preventive decisions and reduced stroke rate.