bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualization of the HIV-1 Env Glycan Shield Across Scales
Authors: Berndsen Zachary T. , Chakraborty Srirupa , Wang Xiaoning , Cottrell Christopher A. , Torres Jonathan L. , Diedrich Jolene K. , López Cesar A. , Yates John R. , van Gils Marit J. , Paulson James C. , Gnanakaran S , Ward Andrew B.
Published: November 2019

The dense array of N-linked glycans on the HIV-1 Envelope Glycoprotein (Env), known as the “glycan shield”, is a key determinant of immunogenicity, yet intrinsic heterogeneity confounds typical structure-function analysis. Here we present an integrated approach of single-particle electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM), computational modeling, and site-specific mass-spectrometry (MS) to probe glycan shield structure and behavior at multiple levels. We found that dynamics lead to an extensive network of inter-glycan interactions that drive the formation of higher-order structure within the glycan shield. This structure defines diffuse boundaries between buried and exposed protein surface and creates a mapping of potentially immunogenic sites on Env. Analysis of Env expressed in different cell lines revealed how cryo-EM can detect subtle changes in glycan occupancy, composition, and dynamics that impact glycan shield structure and epitope accessibility. Importantly, this identified unforeseen changes in the glycan shield of Env obtained from expression in the same CHO cell line used for GMP production. Finally, by capturing the enzymatic deglycosylation of Env in a time-resolved manner we found that highly connected glycan clusters are resistant to digestion and help stabilize the pre-fusion trimer, suggesting the glycan shield may function beyond immune evasion.

Significance Statement

The HIV-1 Env “glycan shield” masks the surface of the protein from immune recognition, yet intrinsic heterogeneity defies a typical structure-function description. Using a complementary approach of cryo-EM, computational modeling, and mass-spectrometry we show how heterogeneity and dynamics affect glycan shield structure across scales. Our combined approach facilitated the development of new cryo-EM data analysis methods and allowed for validation of models against experiment. Comparison of Env across a range of glycosylation states revealed how subtle differences in composition impact glycan shield structure and affect the accessibility of epitopes on the surface. Finally, time-resolved cryo-EM experiments uncovered how highly connected glycan clusters help stabilize the pre-fusion trimer, suggesting the glycan shield may function beyond immune evasion.
RNA G-quadruplex structures exist and function in vivo
Authors: Yang Xiaofei , Cheema Jitender , Zhang Yueying , Deng Hongjing , Duncan Susan , Umar Mubarak Ishaq , Zhao Jieyu , Liu Qi , Cao Xiaofeng , Kwok Chun Kit , Ding Yiliang
Published: November 2019

Guanine-rich sequences are able to form complex RNA structures termed RNA G-quadruplexes in vitro. Because of their high stability, RNA G-quadruplexes are proposed to exist in vivo and are suggested to be associated with important biological relevance. However, there is a lack of direct evidence for RNA G-quadruplex formation in living cells. Therefore, it is unclear whether any purported functions are associated with the specific sequence content or the formation of an RNA G-quadruplex structure. Here, we profiled the landscape of those guanine-rich regions with the in vitro folding potential in the Arabidopsis transcriptome. We found a global enrichment of RNA G-quadruplexes with two G-quartets whereby the folding potential is strongly influenced by RNA secondary structures. Using in vitro and in vivo RNA chemical structure profiling, we determined that hundreds of RNA G-quadruplex structures are strongly folded in both Arabidopsis and rice, providing direct evidence of RNA G-quadruplex formation in living eukaryotic cells. Subsequent genetic and biochemical analysis showed that RNA G-quadruplex folding was sufficient to regulate translation and modulate plant growth. Our study reveals the existence of RNA G-quadruplex in vivo, and indicates that RNA G-quadruplex structures act as important regulators of plant development and growth.
Normally supportive sublattices of crystallographic space groups
Authors: Clemens Miles A. , Campbell Branton J. , Humphries Stephen P.
Published: November 2019

The tabulation of normal subgroups of 3D crystallographic space groups that are themselves 3D crystallographic space groups (csg's) is an ambitious goal, but would have a variety of applications. For convenience, such subgroups are referred to as `csg-normal' while normal subgroups of the crystallographic point group (cpg) of a crystallographic space group are referred to as `cpg-normal'. The point group of a csg-normal subgroup must be a cpg-normal subgroup. The present work takes a significant step towards that goal by tabulating the translational subgroups (a.k.a. sublattices) that are capable of supporting csg-normal subgroups. Two necessary conditions are identified on the relative sublattice basis that must be met in order for the sublattice to support csg-normal subgroups: one depends on the operations of the point group of the space group, while the other depends on the operations of the cpg-normal subgroup. Sublattices that meet these conditions are referred to as `normally supportive'. For each cpg-normal subgroup (excluding the identity subgroup 1) of each of the arithmetic crystal classes of 3D space groups, all of the normally supportive sublattices have been tabulated in symbolic form, such that most of the entries in the table contain one or more integer variables of infinite range; thus it could be more accurately described as a table of the infinite families of normally supportive sublattices. For a given pair of cpg-normal subgroup and normally supportive sublattice, csg-normal subgroups of the space groups of the parent arithmetic crystal class can be constructed via group extension, though in general such a pair does not guarantee the existence of a corresponding csg-normal subgroup.
Study on durability of non-dispersible concrete in seawater environment
Authors: Huijun Wu , Diao Zhan , Fan Kaizuo
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the durability of underwater non-dispersible concrete in seawater environment.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, ten groups of underwater non-dispersible concrete mixtures were designed, and the anti-dispersibility and fluidity of the mixtures were tested.

Findings

The durability test analysis shows that different pouring methods have different effects on the durability of concrete. The durability of concrete poured on land is better than that poured in water. Different mineral admixtures have different effects on the durability of concrete: the frost resistance of the underwater non-dispersible concrete specimens with silica fume is the best; the impermeability and chloride ion permeability of the non-dispersible underwater concrete specimens with waterproofing agent are the best; and the alternation of wetting and drying has adverse effects on the durability indexes of the non-dispersible underwater concrete.

Originality/value

The durability of underwater non-dispersible concrete is tested and the results can be used for reference in engineering practice.
The network ROI
Authors: Khan Gohar , Mohaisen Manar , Trier Matthias
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Leveraging social action theory, social network theory and the notion of network externality, the purpose of this paper is to model two different return on investment (ROI) measures: the networked ROI which captures the network effect originating from a social media investment, and the discrete ROI which focuses social media discrete returns from individual users.

Design/methodology/approach

A field experiment was set up over a period of three months to test the effects of two variants of an advertisement campaign (a social vs a discrete ad) on the modeled networked and discrete ROIs.

Findings

The authors find that emphasizing discrete user actions leads to lower network gains, but higher monetary returns while the social action emphasis produces higher network gains, but lower monetary returns. The study further suggests that social action focus is preferable for brand promotion and engagement, whereas the discrete action focus is suitable for boosting sales and website traffic.

Practical implications

Several potential implications for social media researchers and marketers are also discussed.

Originality/value

The authors for the first time showed that that the social media returns are derived not only from individual actions taken by the user (e.g. likes and shares) but also from users’ social interdependencies and the additional exposure that results from network effects.
A dynamic capabilities view of improvement capability
Authors: Furnival Joy , Boaden Ruth , Walshe Kieran
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Organisations within healthcare increasingly operate in rapidly changing environments and present wide variation in performance. It can be argued that this variation is influenced by the capability of an organisation to improve: its improvement capability. However, there is little theoretical research on improvement capability. The purpose of this paper is to set out the current diverse body of research on improvement capability and develop a theoretically informed conceptual framework.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conceptualises improvement capability as a dynamic capability. This suggests that improvement capability is comprised of organisational routines that are bundled together, and adapt and react to organisational circumstances. Existing research conceptualises these bundles as three elements (microfoundations): sensing, seizing and reconfiguring. This conceptualisation is used to explore how improvement capability can be understood, by inductively categorising eight dimensions of improvement capability to develop a theoretically informed conceptual framework.

Findings

This paper shows that the three microfoundations which make up a dynamic capability are present in the identified improvement capability dimensions. This theoretically based conceptual framework provides a rich explanation of how improvement capability can be configured.

Originality/value

Identifying the component parts of improvement capability helps to explain why some organisations are less successful in improvement than others. This theoretically informed framework can support managers and policy makers to identify improvement capability dimensions in need of development. Further empirical research, particularly in non-market settings, such as publicly funded healthcare is required to enhance understanding of improvement capability and its configuration.
The development and initial performance analysis of REITs in Ireland
Authors: Marzuki Muhammad Jufri , Newell Graeme , McGreal Stanley
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The inception of REITs in Ireland in 2013 presented an additional property investment opportunity to Ireland’s commercial property investment landscape. Importantly, the Irish REIT market is an institutional apparatus with an objective to rejuvenate Ireland’s commercial property market. The purpose of this paper is to provide an empirical validation of the performance of Irish REITs over the period March 2015 to February 2019 across several investment measures such as risk-adjusted returns and diversification benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

Using monthly total returns in local currency, the risk-adjusted performance and portfolio diversification attributes of Irish REITs are assessed. The mean-variance framework is utilised to assess the potential added-value benefits of Irish REITs in a mixed-asset portfolio.

Findings

Irish REITs delivered the strongest average annual return performance, lower relative volatility vs the stock market and competitive overall risk-adjusted performance. The results affirm the characteristic of Irish REITs as a total return-focussed income-driven property investment asset class. The optimal asset allocation analysis shows that Irish REITs are an important ingredient in a mixed-asset investment framework, as their allocation could be scaled effectively across the portfolio risk-return spectrum.

Practical implications

Irish REITs are an emerging investment opportunity for investors seeking exposure in the strongly performing property market in Ireland in the post-Global Financial Crisis period. They are also regarded as an effective alternative conduit to private investment routes (i.e. direct property and non-listed property funds), with the added advantage of being more liquid and versatile than their private property investment counterparts. Importantly, Irish REITs fulfilled the purpose for which they were originally designed. The promising initial performance observed in this paper gives a useful context to what the future might hold for Irish REITs, given the strong interest for commercial property assets in Ireland from both local and cross-border property investors.

Originality/value

This paper is the first empirical research aimed at providing an initial empirical performance validation of Irish REITs as an effective route to commercial property exposure in Ireland. This research enables empirically validated, more informed and practical property investment decision making regarding the strategic role of Irish REITs in a portfolio.
Elastic–plastic deformation and residual stresses in helical springs
Authors: Kobelev Vladimir
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop the method for the calculation of residual stress and enduring deformation of helical springs.

Design/methodology/approach

For helical compression or tension springs, a spring wire is twisted. In the first case, the torsion of the straight bar with the circular cross-section is investigated, and, for derivations, the StVenant’s hypothesis is presumed. Analogously, for the torsion helical springs, the wire is in the state of flexure. In the second case, the bending of the straight bar with the rectangular cross-section is studied and the method is based on Bernoulli’s hypothesis.

Findings

For both cases (compression/tension of torsion helical spring), the closed-form solutions are based on the hyperbolic and on the Ramberg–Osgood material laws.

Research limitations/implications

The method is based on the deformational formulation of plasticity theory and common kinematic hypotheses.

Practical implications

The advantage of the discovered closed-form solutions is their applicability for the calculation of spring length or spring twist angle loss and residual stresses on the wire after the pre-setting process without the necessity of complicated finite-element solutions.

Social implications

The formulas are intended for practical evaluation of necessary parameters for optimal pre-setting processes of compression and torsion helical springs.

Originality/value

Because of the discovery of closed-form solutions and analytical formulas for the pre-setting process, the numerical analysis is not necessary. The analytical solution facilitates the proper evaluation of the plastic flow in torsion, compression and bending springs and improves the manufacturing of industrial components.
Why do people seek knowledge? Tracing factors that affect knowledge seeking intention
Authors: Veeravalli Suchitra , Venkatraman Vijayalakshmi , Hariharan Manoj
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand factors that motivate an individual to seek knowledge on knowledge management systems. Specifically, the work seeks to clarify the impact of organizational practices on an individual’s intention to seek knowledge. The overarching theme is to broaden the current understanding of factors that impact individual knowledge seeking behavior and narrow down factors for which interventions can be developed.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted with the members of knowledge management (KM), human resources (HR) and learning and development teams of Robert Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions Private Limited (RBEI) to understand knowledge behaviors of employees. Subsequent to an exploratory analysis, the survey methodology was used to collect data from members of RBEI. A proposed theoretical model was then validated using partial least squares.

Findings

Empirical findings suggest that to motivate participation, organizational KM practices need to be geared towards promoting curiosity and engaging learners. Results indicate that overt recognition of knowledge seeking behaviors by HR could be counterproductive.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to an MNC engineering organization in one geographic location; one must be cautious when generalizing these results. Replicating this study in multiple organizations will help mitigate this limitation.

Originality/value

Little is known on the effect of KM and HR practices on knowledge seeking behaviors. This work addresses this gap and presents a comprehensive model.
Phase 2, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, 4‐week study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of OPA‐ 15406 (difamilast), a new topical selective phosphodiesterase type‐4 inhibitor, in Japanese pediatric patients aged 2–14 years with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Saeki Hidehisa , Baba Naoko , Oshiden Kazuhide , Abe Yuji , Tsubouchi Hidetsugu
Published: November 2019

The safety and efficacy of OPA‐15406 (international non‐proprietary name, difamilast; also referred to as MM36), a new topical, selective phosphodiesterase type‐4 inhibitor, in Japanese pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis aged 2–14 years were evaluated in a phase 2, randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled, 4‐week study. Seventy‐three patients were randomized 1:1:1 to receive OPA‐15406 0.3%, OPA‐15406 1% or vehicle ointment twice daily for 4 weeks. The mean age of patients was similar across treatment groups. No deaths or serious treatment‐emergent adverse events were reported; all treatment‐emergent adverse events were mild or moderate in severity. The incidence of treatment‐emergent adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation was 4.2% (1/24) in the OPA‐15406 0.3% group, 4.0% (1/25) in the OPA‐15406 1% group and 16.7% (4/24) in the vehicle group, all of which were worsening of atopic dermatitis. Both OPA‐15406 groups demonstrated a higher incidence of success in the Investigator Global Assessment score compared with the vehicle group over the 4‐week study. The OPA‐15406 groups also showed greater improvements from baseline compared with the vehicle group in the Investigator Global Assessment score, Eczema Area and Severity Index overall score and subscale (erythema, induration/papulation, excoriation and lichenification) scores, Visual Analog Scale pruritus score, Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure score, and percentage of affected body surface area over the 4‐week study. Topical OPA‐15406 twice daily for 4 weeks was considered a safe and effective treatment option in this phase 2 study in pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis, and phase 3 development is currently ongoing.
Rare manifestation of hypereosinophilic syndrome: Diffuse‐type hair loss with massive perifollicular eosinophils
Authors: Suzuki Hiromi , Fukui Reimu , Tabata Nobuko , Aiba Setsuya
Published: November 2019

A 46‐year‐old woman consulted our hospital with diffuse alopecia and blood eosinophilia. Histological examination of the scalp revealed dense eosinophilic infiltration around the hair follicles and in the surrounding subcutis. Oral corticosteroid was effective to reduce hair loss and blood eosinophilia, but these conditions immediately relapsed after ending treatment. In addition to alopecia, she had diarrhea and colitis showing histological findings of dense eosinophilic infiltrations in the submucosa. We diagnosed hypereosinophilic syndrome based on hypereosinophilia of blood and tissue with clinical symptoms of alopecia and diarrhea. We suppose diffuse alopecia showing massive eosinophilic infiltration around the hair follicle is a rare symptom of hypereosinophilic syndrome.
The role of microphytobenthos in soft‐sediment ecological networks and their contribution to the delivery of multiple ecosystem services
Authors: Hope Julie A. , Paterson David M. , Thrush Simon F.
Published: November 2019

Sediment dwelling, microscopic primary producers, that occupy sediments in the photic zone, are commonly referred to as microphytobenthos (MPB). The MPB are essential components of soft‐sediment systems, but are often overlooked when assessing coastal ecosystem functionality and service delivery.

The MPB are involved in several complex interactions and feedback that underpin the delivery of vital ecosystem services. MPB profoundly influence the flow and cycling of carbon and nutrients, such as nitrogen, directly and indirectly underpinning highly productive shallow water marine food webs. The MPB can also stabilize sediments through the formation of biofilms, and significantly improve water quality by mediating the benthic–pelagic coupling of nutrients, sediment and pollutants.

The functional role of the MPB is compromised by increasing anthropogenic pressures such as nutrient enrichment, sedimentation, herbicides and emerging contaminants such as microplastic pollution. However, MPB are extremely good at buffering the effects of these land‐sourced stressors at the interface between land and sea.

Synthesis. Society often appreciates the final provisioning of goods and services from our coastal marine environments. However, provisioning services are only possible due to the multitude of supporting and regulating services that underpin them. Microphytobenthos (MPB) are central to benthic ecological networks, and contribute to ecosystem service delivery through various pathways. Understanding the critical role of MPB in complex networks is therefore essential to appreciate their importance in ecosystem function and service delivery into the future.
Consumption of a high‐fat diet does not potentiate the deleterious effects on lipid and protein levels and body development in rats subjected to maternal protein restriction
Authors: Barbosa Sávio dos Santos , Mello Ana Paula da Fonseca Arcoverde Cabral , Nogueira Viviane de Oliveira , da Silva Ially Fabiane , de Melo Palloma Emanuelle Dornelas , dos Santos Carlos Renato , Costa‐Silva João Henrique da , Araújo Alice Valença
Published: November 2019

Maternal undernutrition may cause injuries in several organs of the offspring, as well as lead to diseases in adulthood. Obesity and/or the consumption of a high‐fat diet may also induce metabolic and cardiorespiratory diseases. We hypothesized that the consumption of a post‐weaning high‐fat diet would potentiate the deleterious effects of maternal protein undernutrition. This study evaluated the effects of the association of a low‐protein diet during gestation and lactation with a post‐weaning high‐fat diet on the biochemical and ventilatory parameters of rats. Male Wistar rats from mothers who received a low‐protein (9% of protein) or normoprotein diet during pregnancy and lactation received a high‐fat (32% of total kilocalories from lipids) or a normal fat diet after weaning. Mass gain and somatic growth of the offspring were monitored. Also examined were biochemical chemical parameters and respiratory frequency, tidal volume (volume of air displaced in each normal respiratory cycle when extra effort is not applied), and pulmonary ventilation. Offspring from undernourished mothers presented lower birth weight (P = .0225), which remained until the end of lactation (P < .01). The rats that consumed high‐fat diet and had been submitted to maternal undernutrition presented higher tidal volume when compared to the ones that consumed control diet at the 21st day of life (P ˂ .05). At 30 and 90 days, no further ventilatory changes were observed. Our data show that the consumption of a high‐fat diet post‐weaning did not seem to potentiate the changes induced by maternal undernutrition.
ICETh1 and ICETh2, two interdependent mobile genetic elements in Thermus thermophilus transjugation
Authors: Baquedano Ignacio , Mencía Mario , Blesa Alba , Burrus Vincent , Berenguerfi José
Published: November 2019

Cell to cell DNA transfer between Thermus thermophilus, or transjugation, requires the natural competence apparatus (NCA) of the recipient cell and a DNA donation machinery in the donor. In T. thermophilus HB27, two mobile genetic elements with functional similarities to Integrative and Conjugative Elements (ICEs) coexist, ICETh1 encoding the DNA transfer apparatus and ICETh2, encoding a putative replication module. Here, we demonstrate that excision and integration of both elements depend on a single tyrosine recombinase encoded by ICETh2, and that excision is not required but improves the transfer of these elements to a recipient cell. These findings along with previous results suggest that ICETh1 and ICETh2 depend on each other for spreading among T. thermophilus by transjugation.
Emergence of new variants of antibiotic resistance genomic islands among multidrug‐resistant Salmonella enterica in poultry
Authors: Cohen Emiliano , Davidovich Maya , Rokney Assaf , Valinsky Lea , Rahav Galia , Gal‐Mor Ohad
Published: November 2019

Non‐typhoidal Salmonella enterica (NTS) are diverse and important bacterial pathogens consisting of more than 2600 different serovars, with varying host‐specificity. Here, we characterized the poultry‐associated serovars in Israel, analysed their resistome and illuminated the molecular mechanisms underlying common multidrug resistance (MDR) patterns. We show that at least four serovars including Infantis, Muenchen, Newport and Virchow present a strong epidemiological association between their temporal trends in poultry and humans. Worrisomely, 60% from all of the poultry isolates tested (n = 188) were multidrug resistant, mediated by chromosomal SNPs and different mobile genetics elements. A novel streptomycin‐azithromycin resistance island and previously uncharacterized versions of the mobilized Salmonella genomic island 1 (SGI1) were identified and characterized in S. Blockley and S. Kentucky isolates respectively. Moreover, we demonstrate that the acquisition of SGI1 does not impose fitness cost during growth under nutrient‐limited conditions or in the context of Salmonella infection in the mouse model. Overall, our data emphasize the role of the poultry production as a pool of specific epidemic MDR strains and autonomous genetic elements, which confer resistance to heavy metals and medically relevant antibiotics. These are likely to disseminate to humans via the food chain and fuel the increasing global antibiotic resistance crisis.
Together despite the odds: Explaining racial and ethnic heterogeneity in union dissolution after incarceration
Authors: Widdowson Alex O. , Jacobsen Wade C. , Siennick Sonja E. , Warren Patricia Y.
Published: November 2019

The U.S. incarceration rate rose dramatically over the past 45 years, increasing the number of marriages and cohabiting unions disrupted by a jail or prison stay. But as some have pointed out, not all unions dissolve as a result of incarceration, and there seems to be racial–ethnic variation in this tendency, with Blacks displaying higher rates of dissolution than Whites and Hispanics. Yet it is unclear what explains racial–ethnic differences in union dissolution among the incarcerated. Drawing on the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 (NLSY97), we examine why racial–ethnic differences in union dissolution exist among a sample of individuals who had a marital or a cohabiting union interrupted by an incarceration spell. In doing so, we draw on social exchange theory and structural and cultural theories to suggest that racial–ethnic disparities in union dissolution are explained by differential exposure to protective relationship characteristics. The results of Cox hazard models reveal that Blacks have significantly higher hazards of union dissolution than do Whites and Hispanics. These results also indicate that being married, having a child together, having full‐time employment, a longer union duration, and a shorter incarceration spell may protect against dissolution and that these factors account, in part, for the greater risk of dissolution among Blacks relative to Whites and Hispanics.
Listeria monocytogenes at the human–wildlife interface: black bears (Ursus americanus) as potential vehicles for Listeria
Authors: Parsons Cameron , Niedermeyer Jeff , Gould Nicholas , Brown Phillip , Strules Jennifer , Parsons Arielle W. , Bernardo Mesa‐Cruz J. , Kelly Marcella J. , Hooker Michael J. , Chamberlain Michael J. , Olfenbuttel Colleen , DePerno Christopher , Kathariou Sophia
Published: November 2019

Listeria monocytogenes is the causative agent of the foodborne illness listeriosis, which can result in severe symptoms and death in susceptible humans and other animals. L. monocytogenes is ubiquitous in the environment and isolates from food and food processing, and clinical sources have been extensively characterized. However, limited information is available on L. monocytogenes from wildlife, especially from urban or suburban settings. As urban and suburban areas are expanding worldwide, humans are increasingly encroaching into wildlife habitats, enhancing the frequency of human–wildlife contacts and associated pathogen transfer events. We investigated the prevalence and characteristics of L. monocytogenes in 231 wild black bear capture events between 2014 and 2017 in urban and suburban sites in North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and United States, with samples derived from 183 different bears. Of the 231 captures, 105 (45%) yielded L. monocytogenes either alone or together with other Listeria. Analysis of 501 samples, primarily faeces, rectal and nasal swabs for Listeria spp., yielded 777 isolates, of which 537 (70%) were L. monocytogenes. Most L. monocytogenes isolates exhibited serotypes commonly associated with human disease: serotype 1/2a or 3a (57%), followed by the serotype 4b complex (33%). Interestingly, approximately 50% of the serotype 4b isolates had the IVb‐v1 profile, associated with emerging clones of L. monocytogenes. Thus, black bears may serve as novel vehicles for L. monocytogenes, including potentially emerging clones. Our results have significant public health implications as they suggest that the ursine host may preferentially select for L. monocytogenes of clinically relevant lineages over the diverse listerial populations in the environment. These findings also help to elucidate the ecology of L. monocytogenes and highlight the public health significance of the human–wildlife interface.
Modified clays alter diversity and respiration profile of microorganisms in long‐term hydrocarbon and metal co‐contaminated soil
Authors: Biswas Bhabananda , Juhasz Albert L. , Mahmudur Rahman Mohammad , Naidu Ravi
Published: November 2019

Clays and surfactant‐modified clays (organoclays) are becoming popular as pollutant sorbents due to their high reactivity and low‐cost availability. However, the lack of field testing and data on ecotoxicity limits their application. Considering such aspects, this study assessed the impact of clay amendments to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)/cadmium (Cd)‐contaminated soil on microbial respiration profiles (active vs. inactive cells) using redox staining and the relative abundance and diversity of bacteria and archaea. These clay products are bentonite, cationic surfactant‐modified bentonite and palmitic acid‐grafted surfactant‐modified bentonite). After 70 days, the addition of bentonite and its modified forms altered microbial community structure mainly among dominant groups (Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Chloroflexi) with effects varying depending on material loading to soil. Among amendments, fatty acid (palmitic acid) tailored cationic surfactant‐modified bentonite proved to be microbial growth supportive and significantly increased the number of respiration‐active microbial cells by 5% at a low dose of material (e.g. 1%). Even at high dose (5%), the similarity index using operational taxonomic units (OTUs) also indicates that this modified organoclay‐mixed soil provided only slightly different environment than control soil, and therefore, it could offer more biocompatibility than its counterpart organoclay at similar dose (e.g. cationic surfactant‐modified bentonite). This study promotes designing ‘eco‐safe’ clay‐based sorbents for environmental remediation.
Retrospective evaluation of pregnancies with ankylosing spondylitis in a tertiary center in Turkey
Authors: Unal Canan , Fadiloglu Erdem , Tanacan Atakan , Zaim Onur Can , Beksac Mehmet Sinan
Published: November 2019

Background

To evaluate obstetrical and perinatal outcomes of pregnancies with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

This was a retrospective study evaluating obstetric outcomes of 52 patients with AS who were followed up at our institution between 2006 and 2019. Patients were classified as having disease greater than or less than 5 years, and according to disease‐related medical treatment during pregnancy, as drug free, single medication or multiple medication.

Results

Overall rates of preterm delivery, intrauterine growth retardation and preeclampsia were 17.3%, 13.4% and 7.7%, respectively. Thirty‐three of the patients were followed up without any medication, while 19 patients used drugs during pregnancy. Seven patients used a single drug and 12 patients had multiple drugs. There was no significant difference in terms of obstetrical and neonatal outcomes. However, a higher rate of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission was observed in the group using medication for AS, despite a lack of statistical significance (31.5% vs 15%,P= .162). On the other hand, patients having disease more than 5 years had higher rates of Apgar scores less than <7 and admission to the NICU despite a lack of statistical significance (4% vs 7.4% and 16% vs 26%;P= .267 andP= .297, respectively).

Conclusion

In conclusion, pregnancies of patients with AS must be considered as high risk due to increased rates of adverse outcomes such as preterm delivery, intrauterine growth retardation or preeclampsia.
Betting on temperature: psychological bias in insurance purchases
Authors: Kong Dongmin , Qin Ni , Feng Zhijian , Liu Shasha
Published: November 2019

We examine effects of psychological bias on insurance purchases. In 2014, a Chinese insurance company provided high‐temperature insurance, compensating the insured if days with temperature ≥37°C beat the deductible threshold. Although the possibility of a claim is nearly zero and perfectly predicted by the historical temperatures, individual decisions are over‐influenced by the current temperature. A 1 percent increase in hourly temperature is associated with a 3.1 percent increase in hourly sales. The bias is more pronounced with extremely high temperature periods, for young people, and for individuals with a preference for gambling and with easy access to the Internet. We present the importance of psychological bias in understanding individual decisions.
The quest for ingested peanut protein in human serum
Authors: Pahlow Mose Anja , Mortz Ejvind , Stahl Skov Per , Mortz Charlotte Gotthard , Eller Esben , Sprogøe Ulrik , Barington Torben , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten
Published: November 2019

Background

There is mounting evidence that systemic uptake of food allergens is key to triggering anaphylaxis. However, direct proof for this theory is still lacking. The purpose of this study was to quantify the absorption and to determine the absorption kinetics of immunoreactive peanut protein in relation to the allergic response in human.

Methods

Quantitative protein assays including mass spectrometry, dot blots and Western blotting were developed to determine the level of Ara h 2 absorption in human serum. The double monoclonal sandwich ELISA was applied to quantify absorbed Ara h 2 and 6, and the basophil histamine release assay and the human passive cutaneous anaphylaxis test were utilized to study the absorption kinetics of immunologically intact peanut proteins.

Results

The protein assays worked but were not sensitive enough to trace the minute amounts of absorbed Ara h 2 in human serum. The level of Ara h 6 in serum was found to be up to 0.2 ng/mL, but Ara h 2 could not be detected with the ELISA. Both the in vivo and the in vitro methods were successful in demonstrating that: immunoreactive peanut protein was absorbed shortly after ingestion (≤5 minutes); the peanut protein concentration peaks between 1 and 4 hours; and peanut proteins can circulate for at least 48 hours in the bloodstream.

Conclusion

Ingested peanut protein is absorbed systemically and retains its immunoreactive capacity in human serum. However, the precise quantities and the implication for the elicitation of anaphylaxis remains to be elucidated.
Pregnancy complications and risk of preterm birth according to maternal age: A population‐based study of delivery hospitalizations in Alberta
Authors: Scime Natalie V. , Chaput Katie H. , Faris Peter D. , Quan Hude , Tough Suzanne C. , Metcalfe Amy
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Pregnancy‐related medical complications are associated with a 2‐ to 5‐fold increased risk of preterm birth (PTB), but the nature of this etiologic relation in context with maternal factors remains poorly understood. Previous studies have generally treated maternal age as a confounder but overlooked its potential as an effect modifier, whereby the magnitude of the effect of complications on PTB could differ significantly across age groups. We investigated whether advanced maternal age (≥35 years) modified the association between pregnancy complications and PTB, and compared population‐attributable fractions of PTB from complications in women older vs younger than 35 years.

Material and methods

We analyzed population‐based, cross‐sectional data from the Alberta Discharge Abstract Database for women aged 18‐50 years with singleton live births in hospital between 2014 and 2017 (n = 152 246). Complications were preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and placental disorders identified using diagnostic codes. Outcomes were spontaneous (sPTB) or iatrogenic (iPTB) PTB before 37 weeks of gestation. We estimated risk ratios and risk differences using modified Poisson and log binomial regression, respectively, adjusting for confounders (pregnancy history, comorbidities). Population‐attributable fractions estimates were calculated from risk ratios. Age modification was tested using interaction terms and Z‐tests.

Results

Prevalence of advanced maternal age was 19.2%. Pregnancy complications and s/iPTB were more common among women aged ≥35 years. Age modified the risk of PTB from preeclampsia only, with risk differences of 9.9% (95% CI 7.2%‐12.6%) in older women vs 6.1% (95% CI 4.8%‐7.4%) in younger women (P‐interaction = 0.012) for sPTB, and 29.5% (95% CI 26.0%‐33.1%) vs 20.8% (95% CI 18.9%‐22.6%, P‐interaction <0.001) for iPTB. Population‐attributable fractions of s/iPTB types for all complications were consistently 2%‐5% larger in women aged ≥35 years, and significantly larger for preeclampsia (sPTB: 5.1% vs 2.7%, P = 0.002; iPTB: 18.8% vs 14.0%, P < 0.001) and placental disorders (sPTB: 12.5% vs 8.7%, P < 0.001; iPTB: 13.2% vs 8.9%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Of the pregnancy complications studied, advanced maternal age only modified the association between PTB and preeclampsia, such that older women with preeclampsia have a higher risk for s/iPTB than younger counterparts. Pregnancy complications contribute to a sizable proportion of PTBs in Alberta, especially among women aged ≥35 years. Findings may inform clinical risk assessment and population‐level policy targeting PTB.
The Geoeconomics of Russia’s Greater Eurasia Initiative
Authors: Diesen Glenn
Published: November 2019

Moscow is gradually replacing geopolitics with geoeconomics as power is recognized to originate from asymmetrical economic dependence. Geoeconomics entails state support for asserting control over strategic industries, transportation corridors, and instruments for international economic cooperation. Moscow endeavors to reposition Russia away from the dual periphery of Europe and East Asia by creating a new Eurasian constellation. Eurasian integration aims to reduce the excessive reliance on Western‐centric supply chains and shift the “balance of dependence.” Diversifying economic connectivity within Greater Eurasia is imperative to ensure that Russia’s excessive reliance on the West is not merely replaced with disproportionate dependence on China.
Paediatric haematologists’ attitudes regarding haematopoietic cell transplantation as treatment for sickle cell disease
Authors: Stallings Alicia M. , Majhail Navneet S. , Nowacki Amy S. , Onimoe Grace I. , Hanna Rabi , Piccone Connie M.
Published: November 2019

Beginning early in childhood, patients with sickle cell disease [SCD; a group of genetic haemoglobin disorders characterized by the sickle or HbS mutation (HBB E7V)] are at risk of life‐threatening and debilitating health events. Despite the high morbidity and mortality of this disease, haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), a curative therapy for SCD, remains underutilized. A variety of factors, including the limited availability of suitable donors, play a role in this trend, but do not fully explain the low frequency with which this therapy is employed. The objective of this study was to identify paediatric haematologists’ attitudes about HCT as a treatment option for SCD, and to describe the impact of these attitudes on their practices of discussing HCT with families of children affected by this disease. A nationwide survey of paediatric haematologists in the United States was conducted between February and May 2016. Two hundred and eighty‐seven surveys were included in the final analysis (response rate 20%). On average, respondents reported informing 42% of families about HCT as a treatment option (N = 248, 95% confidence interval: 38–46). Clinician attitudes about the cost and safety of HCT were associated with practices of discussing this therapy with families. These findings suggest that clinician attitudes and referral practices may play a role in the underutilization of this therapy in the SCD population.
Whites’ racial identity centrality and social dominance orientation are interactively associated with far‐right extremism
Authors: Bai Hui
Published: November 2019

This paper presents evidence from five studies (total White N = 7,209) that White American’s racial identity centrality is related to self‐reported levels of far‐right extremism. Furthermore, evidence from two of the studies shows that social dominance orientation (SDO) is another robust predictor of far‐right extremism. Results also show that SDO can moderate the relationship between White identity and extremism such that the association is stronger for Whites with a higher level of SDO. Therefore, evidence suggests that the role of Whites’ racial identity centrality is particularly relevant, and SDO is an important variable that may moderate the association between Whites’ racial identity centrality and their far‐right extremism in the contemporary political era.
Studying Executive Function Skills in Young Children in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: Progress and Directions
Authors: Obradović Jelena , Willoughby Michael T.
Published: November 2019

As a culturally universal set of cognitive skills that promote goal‐directed behaviors, executive functions (EFs) support milestones of early childhood development, such as learning and forming social relationships. A growing base of evidence shows commonality around the world in EFs’ validity, biological basis, and family predictors. But we need more research to understand more fully how to promote the development of EF skills in young children from low‐ and middle‐income countries. In this article, we highlight recent studies on EFs in those countries and propose directions for research on measurement, contextual influences, and interventions. The global health community needs an index of how early life experiences affect child development beyond measures of physical growth, and the global education community needs an instrument to screen children for school readiness beyond measures of preacademic skills. Assessments of EF can address these needs. Research on emergent EFs in low‐ and middle‐income countries can also support the design and evaluation of multisector programs and policies.
Chimeric specific antigen epitope‐carrying dendritic cells induce interleukin‐17(+) regulatory T cells to suppress food allergy
Authors: Xu Ling‐Zhi , Xie Rui‐Di , Xie Hai , Ju Ji‐Yu , Fu Xiao‐Yan , Di Da‐Lin , Peng Mei‐Yu , Gao Wei , Zhang Yuan‐Yi , Yu Dian , Liu Jiang‐Qi , Yang Gui , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Liu Zhi-Gang , Yang Ping-Chang
Published: November 2019

Background

The on‐purpose‐modulated dendritic cells (DCs) have shown charming effects on restoring immune regulatory functions in subjects with immune diseases.

Objective

This study aims to construct DCs carrying chimerical antigen (Ag) peptides (CAP‐DCs) to induce interleukin (IL)‐17+ inducible Tregs (iTregs) to alleviate food allergy (FA) in a murine model.

Methods

In this study, we constructed CAP‐DCs. The CAP is a fusion protein, consisting of a segment of recombinant scFv of anti‐DEC205 antibody and an ovalbumin (OVA) epitope (IC). A murine OVA‐FA model was developed to test the effects of CAP‐DCs on suppressing the allergic response in the intestine.

Results

The CAP‐DCs are characterized as that a complex of scFv‐IC is presented on the surface of the cells, moderately express CD80 and CD86 as well as IL‐6, IL‐23, transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β and CCR9. After being passively transferred with CAP‐DCs or injection of scFv‐IC, Ag‐specific IL‐17+ Foxp3+ iTregs were induced in the intestinal lamina propria of FA mice. The iTregs showed immune suppressive effects on Ag‐specific Th2 response. FA mice were adoptively transferred with the CAP‐DCs or scFv‐IC injection, which resulted in a significant decrease in the number of Ag‐specific Th2 cells and suppression of FA response in an Ag‐specific manner.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

CAP‐DCs can ameliorate FA response by inducing Ag‐specific IL‐17+ Foxp3+ iTregs and suppressing Ag‐specific Th2 response. To generate CAP‐DCs has the translational potential in the treatment of FA.
A meta‐analysis of bariatric surgery‐related outcomes in accredited versus unaccredited hospitals in the United States
Authors: Baidwan Navneet K. , Bachiashvili Vasil , Mehta Tapan
Published: November 2019

The American Society for Bariatric Surgery established a set of standards for bariatric surgery Centers of Excellence accreditation programme in 2003. While several research efforts have shown that post‐bariatric surgery outcomes were poorer in unaccredited as compared to accredited hospitals, others have questioned the same. This research effort sought to use random effects meta‐analysis to quantitatively summarize the existing research efforts analysing this association, which were published between January 2000 and October 2018. Out of the total 559 articles, 13 that quantitatively analysed the effect of accreditation on post‐operative mortality‐ and morbidity‐related outcomes were included in the analysis. Overall, the weighted pooled estimates showed that compared to accredited, in the unaccredited hospitals, the odds of mortality were twice as high (odds ratio: 1.83; confidence interval: 1.49, 2.25), and those for morbidity were 1.23 times higher (1.11, 1.36). Estimates varied by the data source used, and the effect estimate used (odds or risk ratios). Overall, the odds of poor post‐operative outcomes were higher among unaccredited hospitals as compared to accredited. However, there were analytic differences and other limitations among the existing efforts. Future research efforts conducting independent analyses on these data sources, keeping the methodology consistent are needed.