bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explorative meta-analysis of 417 extant archaeal genomes to predict their contribution to the total microbiome functionality
Authors: Starke Robert , Parente Fernandes Maysa Lima , Morais Daniel Kumazawa , Odriozola Iñaki , Jehmlich Nico , Baldrian Petr
Published: August 2020

Unveiling the relationship between taxonomy and function in microbiomes is crucial to determine their contribution to ecosystem functioning. However, while the relationship between taxonomic and functional diversity in bacteria and fungi was reported, this is not the case for archaea. Here, we used a meta-analysis of completely annotated extant genomes of 417 taxonomically unique archaeal species to describe intergenome and intragenome redundancy of functions and to predict the extent of microbiome functionality on Earth contained within archaeal genomes using accumulation curves of all known functions from the level 3 of KEGG Orthology. We found that intergenome redundancy as functions present in multiple genomes was inversely related to intragenome redundancy as multiple copies of a gene in one genome, implying the trade of between additional copies of functionally important genes or a higher number of different genes. A logarithmic model described the relationship between functional diversity and species richness better than both the unsaturated and the saturated model, which suggests a limited total number of archaeal functions in contrast to the potential of bacteria and fungi. Using a global archaeal species richness estimate of 13,159, the logarithmic model predicts a total of 4,164.1 ±2.9 KEGG level 3 functions while the non-parametric bootstrap estimate yields a lower bound of 2,994 ±57 KEGG level 3 functions. Our approach not only highlights similarities in functional redundancy but also the difference in functional potential of archaea compared to other domains of life.
Nanoscale indentation of plasma membrane establishes a contractile actomyosin scaffold through selective activation of the Amphiphysin-Rho1-Dia/DAAM and Rok pathway
Authors: Kapoor Tushna , Dubey Pankaj , Shirolikar Seema , Ray Krishanu
Published: August 2020

Nanoscale bending of plasma membrane increases cell adhesion, induces cell-signalling, triggers F-actin assembly and endocytosis in tissue-cultured cells. The underlying mechanisms are not very well understood. Here, we show that stretching the plasma membrane of somatic cyst cell around rigid spermatid heads generates a stable, tubular endomembrane scaffold supported by contractile actomyosin. The structure resembles an actin-basket covering the bundle of spermatid heads. Genetic analysis suggests that the actomyosin organisation is nucleated exclusively by the Formins, Diaphanous and DAAM, downstream of Rho1, recruited by the Bin-Amphiphysin-Rvs (BAR)-domain protein, Amphiphysin, around the spermatid heads. Actomyosin activity at the actin-basket gathers the spermatid heads into a compact bundle and resists the invasion of the somatic cell by the intruding spermatids. These observations revealed a new response mechanism of nanoscale bending of the plasma membrane, which generates a novel cell adhesion strategy through active clamping.

Highlights

Stretching the plasma membrane around a spermatid head recruits Amphiphysin and Rho1.

Rho1 activation triggers F-actin assemblyin situthrough Diaphanous and DAAM.

Rho1-Rok activation assembles actomyosin scaffold around the folded plasma membrane.

Contractile actomyosin enables plasma membrane to clamp onto the spermatid head.

Author summary

Sperm released from the somatic enclosure is essential for male fertility. During differentiation, the somatic cell membrane, associated with dense F-actin scaffold, tightly hold each spermatid head before release. Kapoor et al., showed that the bending and stretching of the plasma membrane trigger the assembly of an actomyosin scaffold around the bent membrane, which clamps the spermatids together preventing the premature release and somatic cell penetration. This finding provides new insight into the molecular networks activated by mechanical bending of the plasma membrane.
First report of antiviral activity of nordihydroguaiaretic acid against Fort Sherman-like virus (Orthobunyavirus)
Authors: Martinez Florencia , Mugas María Laura , Aguilar Juan Javier , Marioni Juliana , Contigiani Marta Silvia , Núñez Montoya Susana C. , Konigheim Brenda S.
Published: August 2020

The genus Orthobunyavirus are a group of viruses within arbovirus, with a zoonotic cycle, some of which could lead to human infection. A characteristic of these viruses is their lack of antiviral treatment or vaccine for its prevention. The objective of this work was to study thein vitroantiviral activity of nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), the most important active compound ofLarrea divaricataCav. (Zigophyllaceae), against Fort Sherman-like virus (FSV-like) as a model of Orthobunyavirus genus. At the same time, the effect of NDGA as a lipolytic agent on the cell cycle of this viral model was assessed. The method of reducing plaque forming units on LLC-MK2 cells was used to detect the action of NDGA on CbaAr426 and SFCrEq231 isolates of FSV-like. NDGA did not show virucidal effect, but it had antiviral activity with a similar inhibition in both isolates, which was dose dependent. It was established that the NDGA has a better inhibition one-hour post infection (p.i.), showing a different behavior in each isolate, which was dependent upon the time p.i. Since virus multiplication is dependent on host cell lipid metabolism, the antiviral effect of NDGA has been previously related to its ability to disturb the lipid metabolism, probably by interfering with the sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBP) pathway and the 5-lipoxigenase (5-LOX). We determined by using caffeic acid, a 5-LOX inhibitor, that the inhibition of this enzyme negatively affected the FSV-like replication; and by the use of resveratrol, a SREBP1 inhibitor, it was showed that the negative regulation of this pathway only had action on the SFCrEq231 reduction. In addition, it was proved that the NDGA acts intracellularly, since it showed the ability to incorporate into LLC-MK2 cells. The information provided in this work converts the NDGA in a good antiviral candidate, especially for Orthobunyavirus infections, and a useful tool for the biochemical study of FSV-like that causes an infection poorly studied and potentially dangerous.
The SWELL1-LRRC8 complex regulates endothelial AKT-eNOS-mTOR signaling and vascular function
Authors: Alghanem Ahmad F. , Ta Chau , Maurer Joshua M. , Gunasekar Susheel K. , Kumar Ashutosh , Fatima Urooj , Kang Chen , Xie Litao , Adeola Oluwaseun , Abello Javier , Riker Megan , Elliot-Hudson Macaulay , Minerath Rachel A. , Stratman Amber , Grueter Chad E. , Mullins Robert F. , Sah Rajan
Published: August 2020

The endothelium responds to a multitude of chemical and mechanical factors in regulating vascular tone, angiogenesis, blood pressure and blood flow. The endothelial volume regulatory anion channel (VRAC) has been proposed to be mechano-sensitive, to activate in response to fluid flow/hydrostatic pressure and putatively regulate vascular reactivity and angiogenesis. Here, we show that the Leucine Rich Repeat Containing Protein 8a, LRRC8a (SWELL1) functionally encodes VRAC in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Endothelial SWELL1 (SWELL1) expression positively regulates AKT-eNOS signaling while negatively regulating mTOR signaling, via a SWELL1-GRB2-Cav1-eNOS signaling complex. Endothelium-restricted SWELL1 KO (SWELL1 KO) mice exhibit enhanced tube formation from ex-vivo aortic ring explants in matrigel angiogenesis assays, develop hypertension in response to chronic angiotensin II infusion and have impaired retinal blood flow with both diffuse and focal blood vessel narrowing in the setting of Type 2 diabetes (T2D). These data demonstrate that SWELL1 antithetically regulates AKT-eNOS and mTOR signaling in endothelium and is required for maintaining vascular function, particularly in the setting of T2D.
A distinct innate immune signature marks progression from mild to severe COVID-19
Authors: Chevrier Stéphane , Zurbuchen Yves , Cervia Carlo , Adamo Sarah , Raeber Miro E. , de Souza Natalie , Sivapatham Sujana , Jacobs Andrea , Bächli Esther , Rudiger Alain , Stüssi-Helbling Melina , Huber Lars C. , Schaer Dominik J. , Nilsson Jakob , Boyman Onur , Bodenmiller Bernd
Published: August 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) manifests with a range of severities, but immune signatures of mild and severe disease are still not fully understood. Excessive inflammation has been postulated to be a major factor in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19 and innate immune mechanisms are likely to be central in the inflammatory response. We used 40-plex mass cytometry and targeted serum proteomics to profile innate immune cell populations from peripheral blood of patients with mild or severe COVID-19 and healthy controls. Sampling at different stages of COVID-19 allowed us to reconstruct a pseudo-temporal trajectory of the innate immune response. Despite the expected patient heterogeneity, we identified consistent changes during the course of the infection. A rapid and early surge of CD169+monocytes associated with an IFNγ+MCP-2+signature quickly followed symptom onset; at symptom onset, patients with mild and severe COVID-19 had a similar signature, but over the course of the disease, the differences between patients with mild and severe disease increased. Later in the disease course, we observed a more pronounced re-appearance of intermediate/non-classical monocytes and mounting systemic CCL3 and CCL4 levels in patients with severe disease. Our data provide new insights into the dynamic nature of the early inflammatory response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and identifies sustained pathological innate immune responses as a likely key mechanism in severe COVID-19, further supporting investigation of targeted anti-inflammatory interventions in severe COVID-19.
FDR control in GWAS with population structure
Authors: Sesia Matteo , Bates Stephen , Candès Emmanuel , Marchini Jonathan , Sabatti Chiara
Published: August 2020

We present a comprehensive statistical framework to analyze data from genome-wide association studies of polygenic traits, producing distinct and interpretable discoveries while controlling the false discovery rate. This approach leverages sophisticated multivariate models, correcting for linkage disequilibrium, and accounts for population structure and relatedness, adapting to the characteristics of the samples at hand. A key element is the recognition that the observed genotypes can be considered as a random sample from an appropriate model, encapsulating our knowledge of genetic inheritance and human populations. This allows us to generate imperfect copies (knockoffs) of these variables which serve as ideal negative controls; knockoffs are indistinguishable from the original genotypes in distribution, and independent from the phenotype. In sharp contrast with state-of-the-art methods, the validity of our inference in no way depends on assumptions about the unknown relation between genotypes and phenotype. We develop and leverage a model for the genotypes that accounts for arbitrary and unknown population structure, which may be due to diverse ancestries or familial relatedness. We build a pipeline that is robust to the most prominent possible confounders, facilitating the discovery of causal variants. Validity and effectiveness are demonstrated by extensive simulations with real data, as well as by the analysis of several phenotypes in the UK Biobank. Finally, fast software is made available for researchers to apply the proposed methodology to Biobank-scale data sets.
What p53 sees: ATM and ATR activation through crosstalk between DNA damage response pathways
Authors: Fedak Elizabeth A. , Adler Frederick R. , Abegglen Lisa M. , Schiffman Joshua D.
Published: August 2020

1

Cells losing the ability to self-regulate in response to damage is a hallmark of cancer. When a cell encounters damage, regulatory pathways estimate the severity of damage and promote repair, cell cycle arrest, or apoptosis. This decision-making process would be remarkable if it were based on the total amount of damage in the cell, but because damage detection pathways vary in the rate and intensity with which they promote pro-apoptotic factors, the cell’s real challenge is to reconcile dissimilar signals. Crosstalk between repair pathways, crosstalk between pro-apoptotic signaling kinases, and signals induced by damage byproducts complicate the process further. The cell’s response toγand UV radiation neatly illustrates this concept. While these forms of radiation produce lesions associated with two different pro-apoptotic signaling kinases, ATM and ATR, recent experiments show that ATM and ATR react to both forms of radiation. To simulate the pro-apoptotic signal induced byγand UV radiation, we construct a mathematical model that includes three modes of crosstalk between ATM and ATR signaling pathways: positive feedback between ATM/ATR and repair proteins, ATM and ATR mutual upregulation, and changes in lesion topology induced by replication stress or repair. We calibrate the model to agree with 21 experimental claims about ATM and ATR crosstalk. We alter the model by adding or removing specific processes, then examine the effects of each process on ATM/ATR crosstalk by recording which claims the altered model violates. Not only is this the first mathematical model of ATM/ATR crosstalk, its implications provide a strong argument for treating pro-apoptotic signaling as a holistic effort rather than attributing it to a single dominant kinase.
hv
2-concept breaks the photon-count limit of RIXS instrumentation
Authors: Zhou Ke-Jin , Matsuyama Satoshi , Strocov Vladimir N.
Published: August 2020

Upon progressive refinement of energy resolution, the conventional resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) instrumentation reaches the limit where the bandwidth of incident photons becomes insufficient to deliver an acceptable photon-count rate. Here it is shown that RIXS spectra as a function of energy loss are essentially invariant to their integration over incident energies within the core-hole lifetime. This fact permits RIXS instrumentation based on the hv
2-concept to utilize incident synchrotron radiation over the whole core-hole lifetime window without any compromise on the much finer energy-loss resolution, thereby breaking the photon-count limit.
A twofold interpenetrating two-dimensional zinc(II) coordination polymer: synthesis, crystal structure and physical properties
Authors: Chen Ning-Ning , Zhang Chen , Tao Jian-Qing
Published: August 2020

A novel twofold interpenetrating two-dimensional (2D) ZnII coordination framework, poly[[(μ-1,3-bis(2-methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene-κ2
N
3:N
3)(μ-naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylato-κ2
O
2:O
6)zinc(II)] dimethylformamide monosolvate], {[Zn(C12H6O4)(C14H14N4)]·C3H7NO}
n
or {[Zn(1,3-BMIB)(NDC)]·DMF}
n
(I), where H2NDC is naphthalene-2,6-dicarboxylic acid, 1,3-BMIB is 1,3-bis(2-methyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl)benzene and DMF is dimethylformamide, was prepared and characterized through IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermal analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that (I) exhibits an unusual twofold interpenetrating 2D network. In addition, it displays strong fluorescence emissions and a high photocatalytic activity for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under UV-light irradiation.
Consumer cross-channel behaviour: is it always planned?
Authors: Maggioni Isabella , Sands Sean James , Ferraro Carla Renee , Pallant Jason Ian , Pallant Jessica Leigh , Shedd Lois , Tojib Dewi
Published: August 2020

Purpose

For consumers, cross-channel behaviour is increasingly prevalent. Such behaviour involves consumers actively engaging in (and deriving benefit) from one channel during a product search but switching to another channel when making a purchase. Drawing on multi-attribute utility theory, this study proposes a cross-channel behaviour typology consisting of three key aspects: channel choice behaviour, functional and economic outcomes and consumer-specific psychographic and demographic variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Segmentation analysis conducted via latent class analysis (LCA) was performed on a sample of 400 US consumers collected via an online survey.

Findings

Cross-channel behaviour is not always intentional. We identify a specific segment of consumers that most often engage in unplanned, rather than intentional, cross-channel switching. We find that of all shoppers that engage in cross-channel behaviour, a fifth (20%) are forced to switch channels at the point of purchase.

Practical implications

Cross-channel behaviour can be mitigated by retailers via a deep understanding of the driving factors of different configurations of showrooming and webrooming.

Originality/value

In contrast with existing conceptualisations, this study suggests that cross-channel behaviour often stems from consumers being “forced” by factors outside of their control, but within the retailers' control. This research presents a nuanced approach to decompose consumer cross-channel behaviour from the consumer perspective as planned, forced or opportunistic.
Coping with COVID-19. Dugnad: a case of the moral premise of the Norwegian welfare state
Authors: Nilsen Ann Christin Eklund , Skarpenes Ove
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper provides an analysis of the notion of dugnad (collective effort) in the context of the first weeks of the outbreak of COVID-19 in Norway. By appealing to people's sense of collective effort (dugnadsånd) Norwegian leaders successfully managed to coordinate the actions of the population and beat the outbreak.

Design/methodology/approach

The argument builds on the pragmatic sociology associated with Boltanski and Thévenot and their “orders of worth”. Building on qualitative interview studies of the Norwegian middle and working classes a moral ideal type labelled “the socially responsible citizen” is identified.

Findings

The authors argue that dugnad is embedded in a moral repertoire of the socially responsible citizen that is indicative of a specific Norwegian welfare mentality and that is imperative for the sustainability and resilience of the Norwegian welfare model. This repertoire is found across social classes and has to be understood in light of the Norwegian welfare model and the role of civil society.

Social implications

The analysis explains the societal impact of the appeal and endorsement of the notion of dugnad in the context of the outbreak of COVID-19.

Originality/value

The paper explores the roots and impact of a social phenomenon that has not been a matter for much sociological analysis.
Journey of a concept: span of control – the rise, the decline, and what is next?
Authors: Zoller Yaron J. , Muldoon Jeff
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Although the topic of span of control (SOC) has been discussed in detail in management literature and education, less focus has been placed on the decline research since the 1970s and, thus, the future relevance of the concept. By providing a historical overview of the literature on SOC through the work of key management scholars, this paper aims to explain why the literatures’ coverage of the topic has been significantly diminished in recent decades and offers suggestions as to why further research on the topic is needed.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors provide a historical literature review and analysis on the decline of SOC as a construct of interest.

Findings

The findings of the paper include a brief analysis of SOC. The concept was a very strong concept that declined as management became more scientific, rejecting classical management theory. This rejection occurred because SOC was impacted by multiple factors making it impossible to effectively study, making it imprecise. Likewise, SOC is too applied and lacked theoretical relevance. However, SOC still has value, especially when paired with a theory such as leader-member-exchange (LMX).

Originality/value

The authors argue that SOC is still relevant today and management scholars should align its study with its practice in modern organizational structures. However, its focus needs to change and be added to other theories such as LMX.
Will robo-advisors continue? Roles of task-technology fit, network externalities, gratifications and flow experience in facilitating continuance intention
Authors: Cheng Yung-Ming
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to propose a synthetic post-adoption model based on the expectation-confirmation model (ECM) and flow theory to examine whether the fit factor, network factors and psychological factors as antecedents to end-users’ beliefs can affect their continuance intention of the robo-advisor.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the research model based on ECM and flow theory to examine the effects of the fit factor, network factors and psychological factors on end-users’ beliefs and continuance intention of the robo-advisor. Sample data were collected from end-users at three financial services companies in Taiwan. A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed and 360 (80.0%) usable questionnaires were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

This study proposes a solid research model that based on ECM and flow theory, three types of factors, namely, fit factor, network factors and psychological factors, as antecedents to end-users’ continuance intention of the robo-advisor have been examined and this study’s results strongly support the research model with all hypothesized links being significant.

Originality/value

It is particularly worth mentioning that a synthetic post-adoption model can be proposed in this study by introducing the fit factor extracted from task-technology fit model, network factors originated from the theory of network externalities and psychological factors derived from uses and gratifications theory as antecedents to perceived usefulness, confirmation, satisfaction and continuance intention referred in ECM and flow experience derived from flow theory. Thus, this study’s research model and findings can reveal deep insights into the evaluation of determinants in the field of end-users’ continuance intention of the robo-advisor.
Port service quality (PSQ) and customer satisfaction: an exploratory study of container ports in Vietnam
Authors: Phan Tien Minh , Thai Vinh V. , Vu Thao Phuong
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the concept of port service quality (PSQ) and examine its influence on customer satisfaction in the container port sector in Vietnam. Despite the importance of the maritime industry in which port is a critical sector in the national economy, there has been no research so far which examines what PSQ entails and how it affects customer satisfaction in the context of Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a literature review, a conceptual model of PSQ and its influence on customer satisfaction was proposed. A survey questionnaire was then developed and piloted with senior executives who are working in various container shipping lines and logistics companies in Vietnam. The questionnaire was first designed in English and then refined through the process of translation and back-translation to ensure language non-discrepancies. The survey was administered to 200 members of Vietnam Shipowners’ Association, Vietnam Logistics Associations and Vietnam Shippers’ Council. By the cut-off date, 108 questionnaires were received, in which 99 valid replies were used for further analysis.

Findings

Results from this study reveal that PSQ is a construct of 4 factors and 16 items, and that enhanced PSQ will positively influence customer satisfaction, in which the outcomes of port service performance and its image would have the greatest impact. Interestingly, most items relating to social and environmental responsibility were dropped, and this result is expected in the context of a developing country like Vietnam.

Originality/value

Findings from this research may enhance port managers’ understanding on areas of PSQ to improve so as to meet and exceed their customers’ satisfaction.
Prefiguring a feminist academia: a multi-vocal autoethnography on the creation of a feminist space in a neoliberal university
Authors: Deschner Claire Jin , Dorion Léa , Salvatori Lidia
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper is a reflective piece on a PhD workshop on “feminist organising” organised in November 2017 by the three authors of this paper. Calls to resist the neoliberalisation of academia through academic activism are gaining momentum. The authors’ take on academic activism builds on feminist thought and practice, a tradition that remains overlooked in contributions on resisting neoliberalisation in academia. Feminism has been long committed to highlighting the epistemic inequalities endured by women and marginalised people in academia. This study aims to draw on radical feminist perspectives and on the notion of prefigurative organising to rethink the topic of academic activism. How can feminist academic activism resist the neoliberal academia?

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores this question through a multi-vocal autoethnographic account of the event-organising process.

Findings

The production of feminist space within academia was shaped through material and epistemic tensions. The study critically reflects on the extent to which the event can be read as prefigurative feminist self-organising and as neoliberal academic career-focused self-organising. The study concludes that by creating a space for sisterhood and learning, the empowering potential of feminist organising is experienced.

Originality/value

The study shows both the difficulties and potentials for feminist organising within the university. The concept of “prefiguration” provides a theoretical framework enabling us to grasp the ongoing efforts on which feminist organising relies. It escapes a dichotomy between success and failure that fosters radical pessimism or optimism potentially hindering political action.
DNA methylation of Hugl‐2 is a prognostic biomarker in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Miao Yi , Cao Fang , Li Pingping , Liu Peijun
Published: August 2020

It has been reported that loss of Hugl‐2 contributes to tumour formation and progression in vitro and in vivo. However, whether Hugl‐2 levels decrease during kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) and the mechanism involved remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether DNA methylation of Hugl‐2 reduces its expression, leading to the progression and poor prognosis of KIRC. Hugl‐2 methylation and mRNA expression and KIRC clinicopathological data were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and relationships among these factors were analyzed using UALCAN, MethHC, Wanderer and LinkedOmics web tools. We found that Hugl‐2 mRNA and protein levels were reduced in KIRC tissues. Moreover, Hugl‐2 mRNA levels were related to tumour grade and overall survival, and Hugl‐2 methylation was increased in KIRC. According to the results of methylation‐specific PCR, KIRC cells had higher Hugl‐2 DNA methylation levels than HKC cells. Moreover, Hugl‐2 DNA methylation correlated negatively with Hugl‐2 mRNA and was also related to the pathology and T stage of KIRC patients. KIRC patients with high Hugl‐2 DNA methylation also had shorter overall survival. Additionally, methylation of cg08827674, a Hugl‐2 probe, was related to pathologic stage, T stage, neoplasm histologic grade, serum calcium level without laterality, M stage, N stage, and ethnicity. Furthermore, treatment with the DNA methylation inhibitor decitabine resulted in upregulation of Hugl‐2 mRNA and protein levels in KIRC cell lines. These results indicate that Hugl‐2 DNA methylation may be both a prognostic marker and a therapeutic target in KIRC.
Liraglutide improves obesity‐induced renal injury by alleviating uncoupling of the glomerular VEGF–NO axis in obese mice
Authors: Li Kai , Sun Jinhong , Huang Na , Ma Yuting , Han Fang , Liu Yongping , Hou Ningning , Sun Xiaodong
Published: August 2020

Obesity‐related kidney disease is associated with generalized endothelial dysfunction. Liraglutide, a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 agonist, has cardiovascular–renal protective effects in patients with diabetes. In this study, the ability of liraglutide to reduce urinary albumin excretion by alleviating glomerular vascular endothelial growth factor‐nitric oxide (VEGF–NO) axis uncoupling was assessed in high fat diet‐induced obese mice. C57BL/6J mice were divided into control and obesity groups, treated with or without liraglutide (200 μg/kg/day). Blood biochemistry and urinary albumin excretion were measured. Glomerular VEGF and the AMPK–endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) pathway were assayed by western blotting. Glomerular NO, renal haeme oxygenase‐1 activity, and malondialdehyde levels were also measured. Treatment of obese mice with liraglutide led to significant reductions in body weight gain (46 ± 1 g vs 55 ± 1 g, P < .0001), visceral fat (8.9 ± 0.6 g vs 14.5 ± 0.6 g, P < .0001), perirenal fat (2.9 ± 0.2 g vs 5.4 ± 0.3 g, P < .0001), and free fatty acid (1.71 ± 0.12 mmol/L vs 1.02 ± 0.08 mmol/L, P < .0001). Liraglutide significantly improved glucose homeostasis, which was impaired in obese mice. Liraglutide reduced urinary albumin excretion and glomerular hypertrophy in obese mice. Additionally, liraglutide significantly decreased VEGF and increased glomerular NO production in glomeruli, indicating restoration of the glomerular VEGF–NO axis. Furthermore, liraglutide activated the glomerular AMPK–eNOS pathway in obese mice, upregulated renal haeme oxygenase‐1 activity, and reduced the renal malondialdehyde levels in obese mice. In conclusion, liraglutide reduced microalbuminuria and ameliorated renal injury by alleviating the uncoupling of the glomerular VEGF–NO axis.
Benthic meiofauna with emphasis on nematode assemblage response to environmental variation in the intertidal zone of the Danshuei River estuary, northwest Taiwan
Authors: Cai Lizhe , Fu Sujing , Zhou Xiping , Tseng Li‐Chun , Hwang Jiang‐Shiou
Published: August 2020

This study aims to determine whether the benthic meiofaunal assemblages on the intertidal zone of Danshuei River estuary (DRE) in Taiwan vary from the estuary to the upper stream, and in response to different habitats. A total of six major taxa (Nematoda, Copepoda, Ostracoda, Polychaeta, Oligochaeta and Gastrotricha) of meiofauna and 44 nematode genera were recorded at 12 sampling stations in DRE in October, 2013. Meiofauna densities ranged between 4.67 ± 2.08 and 294.00 ± 180.40 ind./10 cm2, the average was 162.31 ± 84.36 ind./10 cm2. Nematodes were the dominant group (relative abundance, RA: 89.27%) in the meiofaunal community at all stations, with its assemblage in DRE dominated by nonselective deposit feeders (55.14%). There were striking differences in nematode assemblages between mangroves and mangroves with reed habitats. Pearson's correlation analysis showed that the dominances of the genera Anoplostoma, Metacylicolaimus and Deontostoma were significantly negative while Terschellingia correlated positively with salinity. These genera showed either decreasing or increasing trends at stations from the estuary to the upper stream. The dominances of the genera Megadesmolaimus and Theristus were significantly positively correlated with the proportion of sand and negatively correlated with the proportion of silt and clay. Our results indicate that salinity and sediment type influenced nematode assemblages in the DRE.
Major changes in grapevine wood microbiota are associated with the onset of esca, a devastating trunk disease
Authors: Bruez Emilie , Vallance Jessica , Gautier Angélique , Laval Valérie , Compant Stéphane , Maurer Wolfgang , Sessitsch Angela , Lebrun Marc‐Henri , Rey Patrice
Published: August 2020

Esca, a major grapevine trunk disease in old grapevines, is associated with the colonization of woody tissues by a broad range of plant pathogenic fungi. To identify which fungal and bacterial species are involved in the onset of this disease, we analysed the microbiota from woody tissues of young (10‐year‐old) grapevines at an early stage of esca. Using meta‐barcoding, 515 fungal and 403 bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified in woody tissues. In situ hybridization showed that these fungi and bacteria co‐inhabited in grapevine woody tissues. In non‐necrotic woody tissues, fungal and bacterial microbiota varied according to organs and seasons but not diseased plant status. Phaeomoniella chlamydospora, involved in the Grapevine trunk disease, was the most abundant species in non‐necrotic tissues from healthy plants, suggesting a possible non‐pathogenic endophytic behaviour. Most diseased plants (70%) displayed cordons, with their central white‐rot necrosis colonized essentially by two plant pathogenic fungi (Fomitiporia mediterranea: 60%–90% and P. chlamydospora: 5%–15%) and by a few bacterial taxa (Sphingomonas spp. and Mycobacterium spp.). The occurrence of a specific association of fungal and bacterial species in cordons from young grapevines expressing esca‐foliar symptoms strongly suggests that that microbiota is involved in the onset of this complex disease.
Turkish teachers' social judgements on autism spectrum‐based exclusion in primary schools
Authors: Acar Melike
Published: August 2020

Inclusive education has become a primary educational goal in many countries that aim to end the exclusion of students with different needs. However, we still know little about the perspectives of teachers regarding the exclusion of students with different needs. Given that background, the present study used semi‐structured clinical interviews to investigate Turkish pre‐service (N = 31, mean age = 20.02 years) and in‐service (N = 23, mean age = 40.88 years) teachers' judgements and justifications related to peer exclusion of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and teachers' failure to include. Findings revealed that the context of exclusion has a significant effect on whether the teachers judged typically developing students' exclusion of their peers with ASD as acceptable. Teachers evaluated peer exclusion in the academic context as less acceptable than exclusion in the play context, citing more moral concerns. Further findings and implications for teacher education are discussed.
Hemoglobin concentration and iron supplement during pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Si Shuting , Shen Yu , Xin Xing , Mo Minjia , Shao Bule , Wang Shuojia , Luo Wenliang , Chen Zexin , Liu Hui , Chen Danqing , Yu Yunxian
Published: August 2020

Background

Hemoglobin (Hb) measurement is a conventional test during perinatal visits. Hb concentration is related to iron supplement. However, studies focusing on Hb levels, iron supplement, and pregnancy outcomes are scarce. This study aimed to determine whether Hb levels and iron supplement were associated with the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

A running hospital‐based cohort was conducted from August, 2011. The demographic data and medical information were collected individually through questionnaires and patient medical records. Multiple linear regression was applied for the association between Hb levels, iron supplement, and blood glucose. Multiple logistic regression was used for evaluating odds ratios between Hb levels, iron supplement, and GDM.

Results

Hb levels during first (T1) and second trimester (T2) of pregnancy were significantly and positively associated with blood glucose and GDM risk. After adjusting for age, prepregnancy body mass index, and other risk factors, pregnant women with Hb ≥ 11 g/dL and iron supplement had higher postprandial blood glucose at 1 hour (Hb ≥ 11 g/dL in T2 and iron supplement in T1: β = 0.860，P = <0.001; Hb ≥ 11 g/dL in T2 and iron supplement in T2: β = 0.960，P < 0.001; Hb ≥ 11 g/dL in T1 and iron supplement in T2: β = 1.133, P = 0.033) and GDM risks (odds ratio [OR] = 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05‐2.24; OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.13‐3.35; OR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.07‐4.34, respectively), compared with those with Hb < 11 g/dL and without iron supplement.

Conclusion

High Hb concentration and iron supplements without anemia increased postprandial blood glucose and risks for GDM. It indicates that pregnant women with good Hb levels should not be advised to take iron supplements during pregnancy.
Italian odonates in the Pandora's box: A comprehensive DNA barcoding inventory shows taxonomic warnings at the Holarctic scale
Authors: Galimberti Andrea , Assandri Giacomo , Maggioni Davide , Ramazzotti Fausto , Baroni Daniele , Bazzi Gaia , Chiandetti Ivan , Corso Andrea , Ferri Vincenzo , Galuppi Mirko , Ilahiane Luca , La Porta Gianandrea , Laddaga Lorenzo , Landi Federico , Mastropasqua Fabio , Ramellini Samuele , Santinelli Roberto , Soldato Giovanni , Surdo Salvatore , Casiraghi Maurizio
Published: August 2020

The Odonata are considered among the most endangered freshwater faunal taxa. Their DNA‐based monitoring relies on validated reference data sets that are often lacking or do not cover important biogeographical centres of diversification. This study presents the results of a DNA barcoding campaign on Odonata, based on the standard 658‐bp 5′ end region of the mitochondrial COI gene, involving the collection of 812 specimens (409 of which barcoded) from peninsular Italy and its main islands (328 localities), belonging to all the 88 species (31 Zygoptera and 57 Anisoptera) known from the country. Additional BOLD and GenBank data from Holarctic samples expanded the data set to 1,294 DNA barcodes. A multi‐approach species delimitation analysis involving two distance (OT and ABGD) and four tree‐based (PTP, MPTP, GMYC and bGMYC) methods was used to explore these data. Of the 88 investigated morphospecies, 75 (85%) unequivocally corresponded to distinct molecular operational units, whereas the remaining ones were classified as ‘warnings’ (i.e. showing a mismatch between morphospecies assignment and DNA‐based species delimitation). These results are in contrast with other DNA barcoding studies on Odonata showing up to 95% of identification success. The species causing warnings were grouped into three categories depending on if they showed low, high or mixed genetic divergence patterns. The analysis of haplotype networks revealed unexpected intraspecific complexity at the Italian, Palearctic and Holarctic scale, possibly indicating the occurrence of cryptic species. Overall, this study provides new insights into the taxonomy of odonates and a valuable basis for future DNA and eDNA‐based monitoring studies.
Relevant non‐pharmacologic topics for clinical research in rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases: The patient perspective
Authors: Ingegnoli Francesca , Schioppo Tommaso , Ubiali Tania , Bollati Valentina , Ostuzzi Silvia , Buoli Massimiliano , Caporali Roberto
Published: August 2020

Objective

The research approach on rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) is challenging and patient involvement is an emerging issue to obtain relevant information to research. Despite growing interest in non‐pharmacologic aspects of clinical research in RMDs, the patients’ perspectives are currently poorly explored.

Methods

A cross‐sectional no‐profit online survey was devised to identify and rank the priorities for clinical research in RMDs according to patients’ perspectives. Patients were asked to rate the following topics: food/nutrition, air pollution, smoking, work activity, social participation, physical activity, emotional well‐being/stress, alternative medicine, and patient‐physician relationship. The survey was disseminated by ALOMAR (Lombard Association for Rheumatic Diseases) between June and October 2019.

Results

Two hundred RMD patients completed the survey. The topic most rated 188 (94%) was the doctor‐patient relationship, considered very or extremely important. Other topics rated as follows: psychological well‐being 185 (92.5%), physical activity 155 (77.5%), nutrition, eating habits 150 (75%), alternative therapies 144 (72%), work activity 144 (72%), environmental pollution 134 (67%), social life 121 (60.5%) and cigarette smoke 119 (59.5%). The topics considered relevant were perceived to be able to influence disease symptoms. Environmental pollution and smoking were considered the most important for RMD prevention in 43.3% and 48.7% respectively.

Conclusions

This survey highlights the relevance of several unmet needs and indicates that active patient involvement is essential to design successful translational studies and improve clinical outcomes.
Asymmetric Inventory Management and the Direction of Sales Changes*
Authors: Hwang Iny , Jung Taejin , Lee Woo‐Jong , Yang Daniel G.
Published: August 2020

We study manufacturing firms' asymmetric inventory investment in response to sales changes. Focusing on the costs of resource adjustment and stockout that likely differ in sales‐increasing and sales‐decreasing periods, we predict and find that inventory investment declines less during periods with sales decreases than it rises during periods with sales increases. We validate this claim by showing that managers' expectations of future demand and desire to avoid inventory stockouts are important determinants of this asymmetry. In addition, we find that asymmetric inventory investment provides useful information for predicting future sales growth, and that both managers' and analysts' sales forecasts are positively associated with the asymmetry. Lastly, we document that forecasts of future sales growth that incorporate asymmetric inventory investment are associated with lower absolute forecast errors than benchmark forecasts. Overall, we highlight the importance of inventory information in understanding managers' resource adjustment and utilization decisions that have implications for forecasting future demand. Our findings on asymmetric inventory management provide new insights to fundamental analysis based on inventory signals.
Neural correlates of cue‐induced changes in decision‐making distinguish subjects with gambling disorder from healthy controls
Authors: Genauck Alexander , Matthis Caroline , Andrejevic Milan , Ballon Lukas , Chiarello Francesca , Duecker Katharina , Heinz Andreas , Kathmann Norbert , Romanczuk‐Seiferth Nina
Published: August 2020

In addiction, there are few human studies on the neural basis of cue‐induced changes in value‐based decision making (Pavlovian‐to‐instrumental transfer, PIT). It is especially unclear whether neural alterations related to PIT are due to the physiological effects of substance abuse or rather related to learning processes and/or other etiological factors related to addiction. We have thus investigated whether neural activation patterns during a PIT task help to distinguish subjects with gambling disorder (GD), a nonsubstance‐based addiction, from healthy controls (HCs). Thirty GD and 30 HC subjects completed an affective decision‐making task in a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanner. Gambling‐associated and other emotional cues were shown in the background during the task. Data collection and feature modeling focused on a network of nucleus accumbens (NAcc), amygdala, and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) (derived from PIT and substance use disorder [SUD] studies). We built and tested a linear classifier based on these multivariate neural PIT signatures. GD subjects showed stronger PIT than HC subjects. Classification based on neural PIT signatures yielded a significant area under the receiver operating curve (AUC‐ROC) (0.70, p = 0.013). GD subjects showed stronger PIT‐related functional connectivity between NAcc and amygdala elicited by gambling cues, as well as between amygdala and OFC elicited by negative and positive cues. HC and GD subjects were thus distinguishable by PIT‐related neural signatures including amygdala–NAcc–OFC functional connectivity. Neural PIT alterations in addictive disorders might not depend on the physiological effect of a substance of abuse but on related learning processes or even innate neural traits.
Estimation of malignancy of pulmonary nodules at CT scans: Effect of computer‐aided diagnosis on diagnostic performance of radiologists
Authors: Liu Jiabao , Zhao Liqin , Han Xianjun , Ji Hong , Liu Liheng , He Wen
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To develop a computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) system for distinguishing malignant from benign pulmonary nodules on computed tomography (CT) scans, and to assess whether the diagnostic performance of radiologists with different experiences can be improved with the assistant of CAD.

Materials and methods

A total of 857 malignant nodules from 601 patients and 426 benign nodules from 278 patients were retrospectively collected from four hospitals. In this study, we exploited convolutional neural network in the framework of deep learning to classify whether a nodule was benign or malignant. A total of 745 malignant nodules and 370 benign nodules were used as the training data of our CAD system. The remaining 112 malignant nodules and 56 benign nodules were used as the test data. The participants were two senior chest radiologists, two secondary chest radiologists, and two junior radiology residents. The readers estimated the likelihood of malignancy of pulmonary nodules first without and then with CAD output. Receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate readers’ diagnostic performance.

Results

When a threshold level of 58% was used to estimate the likelihood of malignancy, the sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy values of our CAD scheme alone were 93.8%, 83.9%, and 90.5%, respectively. For all six readers, the mean area under the ROC curve (Az) values without and with CAD system were 0.913 and 0.938, respectively. For each reader, there is a large difference in Az values that assessed without and with CAD system. With CAD output, the readers made correct changes an average of 15.7 times and incorrect changes an average of 2 times.

Conclusion

Our CAD system significantly improved the diagnostic performance of readers regardless of their experience levels for assessment of the likelihood of malignancy of pulmonary nodules.
Programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1)/PD‐ligand 1(PD‐L1) inhibitors‐related pneumonitis in patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sun Yuxin , Shao Chi , Li Shan , Xu Yan , Xu Kai , Zhang Ying , Huang Hui , Wang Mengzhao , Xu Zuojun
Published: August 2020

Immune‐related pneumonitis is an uncommon but potentially fatal immune‐related adverse event in advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients during treatment with anti‐programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1) and programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1). Underlying emphysema, interstitial lung disease (ILD), and previous radiation therapy for lung cancer might be factors precipitating immune‐related pneumonitis. The incidence of immune‐related pneumonitis is reported to be higher in those treated with PD‐1 inhibitors than in those treated with anti‐PD‐L1 inhibitors. Early detection and diagnosis and appropriate management according to the severity are critical to improving the prognosis. The first‐line physicians, including the primary responsible oncologists, family doctors, emergency physicians and NSCLC patients should be trained to identify and report symptoms of immune‐related pneumonitis as early as possible. Multidisciplinary treatment teams involving clinicians (including ILD specialists and lung cancer specialists), radiologists and pathologists are recommended for the treatment of immune‐related pneumonitis.