bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene-environment interactions using a Bayesian whole genome regression model
Authors: Kerin Matthew , Marchini Jonathan
Published: October 2019

The contribution of gene-environment (GxE) interactions for many human traits and diseases is poorly characterised. We propose a Bayesian whole genome regression model, LEMMA, for joint modeling of main genetic effects and gene-environment interactions in large scale datasets such as the UK Biobank, where many environmental variables have been measured. The method estimates a linear combination of environmental variables, called an environmental score (ES), that interacts with genetic markers throughout the genome, and provides a readily interpretable way to examine the combined effect of many environmental variables. The ES can be used both to estimate the proportion of phenotypic variance attributable to GxE effects, and also to test for GxE effects at genetic variants across the genome. GxE effects can induce heteroscedasticity in quantitative traits and LEMMA accounts for this using robust standard error estimates when testing for GxE effects. When applied to body mass index, systolic, diastolic and pulse pressure in the UK Biobank we estimate that 9.3%, 3.9%, 1.6% and 12.5% of phenotypic variance is explained by GxE interactions, and that low frequency variants explain most of this variance. We also identify 3 loci that interact with the estimated environmental scores (− log10p > 7.3).
Robust blind spectral unmixing for fluorescence microscopy using unsupervised learning
Authors: McRae Tristan D. , Oleksyn David , Miller Jim , Gao Yu-Rong
Published: October 2019

Due to the overlapping emission spectra of fluorophores, fluorescence microscopy images often have bleed-through problems, leading to a false positive detection. This problem is almost unavoidable when the samples are labeled with three or more fluorophores, and the situation is complicated even further when imaged under a multiphoton microscope. Several methods have been developed and commonly used by biologists for fluorescence microscopy spectral unmixing, such as linear unmixing, non-negative matrix factorization, deconvolution, and principal component analysis. However, they either require pre-knowledge of emission spectra or restrict the number of fluorophores to be the same as detection channels, which highly limits the real-world applications of those spectral unmixing methods. In this paper, we developed a robust and flexible spectral unmixing method: Learning Unsupervised Means of Spectra (LUMoS), which uses an unsupervised machine learning clustering method to learn individual fluorophores’ spectral signatures from mixed images, and blindly separate channels without restrictions on the number of fluorophores that can be imaged. This method highly expands the hardware capability of two-photon microscopy to simultaneously image more fluorophores than is possible with instrumentation alone. Experimental and simulated results demonstrated the robustness of LUMoS in multi-channel separations of two-photon microscopy images. We also extended the application of this method to background/autofluorescence removal and colocalization analysis. Lastly, we integrated this tool into ImageJ to offer an easy to use spectral unmixing tool for fluorescence imaging. LUMoS allows us to gain a higher spectral resolution and obtain a cleaner image without the need to upgrade the imaging hardware capabilities.
Risk to North American Birds from Climate Change-Related Threats
Authors: Bateman Brooke L. , Taylor Lotem , Wilsey Chad , Wu Joanna , LeBaron Geoffrey S. , Langham Gary
Published: October 2019

Climate change is a significant threat to biodiversity globally, compounded by threats that could hinder species’ ability to respond through range shifts. However, little research has examined how future bird ranges may coincide with multiple stressors at a broad scale. Here, we assess the risk to 544 birds in the United States from future climate change threats under a mitigation-dependent global warming scenario of 1.5°C and an unmitigated scenario of 3.0°C. Threats considered included sea level rise, lake level change, human land cover conversion, and extreme weather events. We developed a gridded index of risk based on coincident threats, species richness, and richness of vulnerable species. To assign risk to individual species and habitat groups, we overlaid future bird ranges with threats to calculate the proportion of species’ ranges affected in both the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Nearly all species will face at least one new climate-related threat in each season and scenario analyzed. Even with lower species richness, the 3.0°C scenario had higher risk for species and groups in both seasons. With unmitigated climate change, multiple coincident threats will affect over 88% of the conterminous United States, and 97% of species could be affected by two or more climate-related threats. Some habitat groups will see up to 96% species facing three or more threats. However, climate change mitigation would reduce risk to birds from climate change-related threats across over 90% of the US. Across the threats included here, extreme weather events have the most significant influence on risk and the most extensive spatial coverage. Urbanization and sea level rise will also have disproportionate impacts on species relative to the area they cover. By incorporating threats into predictions of climate change impacts, this assessment provides a comprehensive picture of how climate change will affect birds and the places they need.
Evolution of protective human antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein repeat motifs
Authors: Murugan Rajagopal , Scally Stephen W. , Costa Giulia , Mustafa Ghulam , Thai Elaine , Decker Tizian , Bosch Alexandre , Prieto Katherine , Levashina Elena A. , Julien Jean-Philippe , Wardemann Hedda
Published: October 2019

Circumsporozoite protein of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum (PfCSP) is the main target of antibodies that prevent the infection and disease. Protective antibodies recognize the central PfCSP domain, but our understanding of how parasite inhibition is associated with recognition of this domain and with the evolution of potent antibodies remains scattered. Here, we characterized the epitope specificity of 200 human monoclonal PfCSP antibodies. We show that the majority of PfCSP antibodies bind to NANP and NANP-like motifs with different preferences and define the molecular basis for recognition. Epitope cross-reactivity evolved with increasing antibody affinity around a conserved (N/D)P-NANP-N(V/A) core. High affinity to this motif, but not binding to NANP-like motifs, was associated with parasite inhibition and protection. Thus, NANP drives the development of potent PfCSP antibodies independently of their cross-reactivity profile, a finding with direct implications for the design of a second-generation PfCSP-based malaria vaccine.

HIGHLIGHTS

The majority of human PfCSP antibodies recognize multiple epitopes

NANP affinity maturation drives the evolution of cross-reactive PfCSP antibodies

Preferential PfCSP antibody binding to a conserved core motif

High affinity not epitope specificity is associated with PfCSP antibody potency
DNA Barcoding of fogged caterpillars in Peru: A novel approach for unveiling host-plant relationships of tropical moths (Insecta, Lepidoptera)
Authors: Hausmann Axel , Diller Juliane , Moriniere Jerome , Höcherl Amelie , Floren Andreas , Haszprunar Gerhard
Published: October 2019

A total of 130 lepidopteran larvae were selected from 37 fogging samples at the Panguana station, district Yuyapichis, province Puerto Inca, department Huánuco, Peru. Target trees were pre-identified and subsequently submitted to molecular confirmation of identity with three markers (rbcL, psbA and trnL-F). Identification of 119 lepidopteran larvae (92 species) was successful through DNA barcoding: Comparison of COI barcodes with the reference database of adult moths resulted in 65 (55%) matches at species level, 32 (27%) at genus level and 19 (16%) at subfamily or family level. Three larvae could not be assigned to a family. For these larvae the fogged target tree now suggests a potential host-plant relationship. Molecular gut content analysis, based on High-Throughput-Sequencing was successfully tested for ten larvae corroborating feeding on the target plant in some cases but elucidating several other cases of potential ‘alternative feeding’. We propose a larger-scale approach using this rapid and efficient method including molecular gut-content analyses for comprehensively testing the ratio of ‘alternative feeders’ and pitfalls caused by collateral fogging of larvae from neighboring trees.
Asamataxis: A cooperative relayed migration in response to subsurface inhomogeneity leads to long-range self-patterning of cells
Authors: Khadpekar Akshada , Mistry Kanksha , Dwivedi Nehal , Paspunurwar Aditya , Tandaiya Parag , Majumder Abhijit
Published: October 2019

Cells self-organize to give patterns that are essential for tissue functioning. While the effects of biochemical and mechanical cues are relatively well studied, the role of stiffness inhomogeneity on cellular patterning is unexplored. Using a rigid structure embedded in soft polyacrylamide (PAA) gel, we show that such mechanical inhomogeneity leads to long-range self-organized cellular patterns. Our results reveal that this patterning depends on cellular traction and cell morphology. Depending on a suitable combination of cellular morphology and traction, the information about the presence of embedded structure gets relayed outward. In response to this relay, the cells reorient their axis and migrate towards the embedded structure leading to the observed long-range (20-35 cell length) patterning. To predict the possibility of pattern formation, we present a dimensionless number ‘f’ combining the governing parameters. We have also shown that the pattern can be tailor-made by pre-designing sub-surface structures, a potential tool for tissue engineering. This mechanism of directed migration driven long-range pattern formation in response to mechanical inhomogeneity may be involved during several pathophysiological conditions, a proposition that needs further investigation.

One Sentence Summary

Substrate inhomogeneity and cooperative cellular traction together lead to cellular migration and long-range pattern formation.
A Microsporidian blocksPlasmodium falciparumtransmission inAnopheles arabiensismosquitoes
Authors: Herren Jeremy K. , Mbaisi Lilian , Mararo Enock , Oundo Joseph W. , Makhulu Edward E. , Butungi Hellen , Mancini Maria Vittoria , Mobegi Victor A. , Jabara Jordan , Sinkins Steven P.
Published: October 2019

Malaria imposes an enormous burden on sub-Saharan Africa, and evidence that incidence could be starting to increase again1suggests the limits of currently applied control strategies have now been reached. A possible novel control approach involves the dissemination in mosquitoes of inherited symbiotic microbes to block transmission. This strategy is exemplified by the use of transmission-blockingWolbachiainAedes aegyptiagainst dengue virus2–7. However, in theAnopheles gambiaecomplex, the primary African vectors of malaria, there limited reports of inherited symbionts with transmission-blocking capacity8–10. Here we show that a newly discovered vertically transmitted species ofMicrosporidiasymbiont in theAn. gambiaecomplex blocksPlasmodiumtransmission.Microsporidia MBis present at moderate prevalence in geographically dispersed populations ofAn. arabienesisin Kenya, localized to the mosquito midgut and ovaries, and is not associated with significant reductions in adult host fecundity or survival. Field collectedMicrosporidia MB-infectedAn. arabiensiswere never found to harborP. falciparumgametocytes and on experimental infection withP. falciparumno sporozoites could be detected inMicrosporidia MB-infected mosquitos. As aPlasmodiumtransmission-blocking microbe that is non-virulent and vertically transmitted,Microsporidia MBcould be exploited as a novel malaria control tool.
Random Parametric Perturbations of Gene Regulatory Circuit Uncover State Transitions in Cell Cycle
Authors: Katebi Ataur , Kohar Vivek , Lu Mingyang
Published: October 2019

Many biological processes involve precise cellular state transitions controlled by complex gene regulation. Here, we use budding yeast cell cycle as a model system and explore how a gene regulatory circuit encodes essential information of state transitions. We present a generalized random circuit perturbation (RACIPE) method, specifically for circuits containing heterogeneous regulation types, and its usage to analyze both stable steady states and oscillatory states from an ensemble of circuit models with random kinetic parameters. The stable steady states form robust clusters with a circular structure that are associated with cell cycle phases. We show that this circular structure in the clusters is consistent with single cell RNA-seq data. The oscillatory states specify irreversible state transitions along cell cycle progression. Furthermore, we identify possible mechanisms to understand irreversible state transitions from steady states of random models. We expect this approach to be robust and generally applicable to unbiasedly predict dynamical transitions of a gene regulatory circuit.
Trans-NanoSim characterizes and simulates nanopore RNA-seq data
Authors: Hafezqorani Saber , Yang Chen , Nip Ka Ming , Warren René L , Birol Inanc
Published: October 2019

We introduce Trans-NanoSim, the first tool that simulates reads with technical and transcriptome-specific features learnt from nanopore RNA-seq data. Through benchmarking on sets of nanopore reads from human and mouse reference transcriptomes, we show the robustness of Trans-NanoSim in capturing the characteristics of nanopore cDNA and direct RNA reads. As a cost-effective alternative to sequencing real transcriptomes, Trans-NanoSim would facilitate the rapid development of analytical tools for nanopore RNA-seq data. Trans-NanoSim is freely accessible at https://github.com/bcgsc/NanoSim
The effects of modified sialic acids on mucus and erythrocytes on influenza A virus HA and NA functions
Authors: Barnard Karen N. , Alford-Lawrence Brynn K. , Buchholz David W. , Wasik Brian R. , LaClair Justin R. , Yu Hai , Honce Rebekah , Ruhl Stefan , Pajic Petar , Daugherity Erin K. , Chen Xi , Schultz-Cherry Stacey L. , Aguilar Hector C. , Varki Ajit , Parrish Colin R.
Published: October 2019

Sialic acids (Sia) are the primary receptors for influenza viruses, and are widely displayed on cell surfaces and in secreted mucus. Sia may be present in variant forms that includeO-acetyl modifications at C4, C7, C8, and C9 positions, andN-acetyl orN-glycolyl at C5. They can also vary in their linkages, including α2-3 or α2-6-linkages. Here, we analyzed the distribution of modified Sia in cells and tissues of wild-type mice, or in mice lacking cytidine 5’-monophosphate-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH) enzyme that synthesizesN-glycolyl modifications (Neu5Gc). We also examined the variation of Sia forms on erythrocytes and saliva from different animals. To determine the effect of Sia modifications on influenza A virus (IAV) infection, we tested for effects on hemagglutinin (HA) binding and neuraminidase (NA) cleavage. We confirmed that 9-O-acetyl, 7,9-O-acetyl, 4-O-acetyl, and Neu5Gc modifications are widely but variably expressed in mouse tissues, with the highest levels detected in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. Secreted mucins in saliva and surface proteins of erythrocytes showed a great degree of variability in display of modified Sia between different species. IAV HA from different virus strains showed consistently reduced binding to both Neu5Gc andO-acetyl modified Sia; however, while IAV NA were inhibited by Neu5Gc andO-acetyl modifications, there was significant variability between NA types. The modifications of Sia in mucus may therefore have potent effects on the functions of IAV, and may affect both pathogens and the normal flora of different mucosal sites.

IMPORTANCE

Sialic acids (Sia) are involved in many different cellular functions and are receptors for many pathogens. Sia come in many chemically modified forms but we lack a clear understanding of how they alter the interactions with microbes. Here we examine the expression of modified Sia in mouse tissues, on secreted mucus in saliva, and on erythrocytes, including those from IAV host species and animals used in IAV research. These Sia forms varied considerably between different animals, and their inhibitory effects on IAV NA and HA activities and on bacterial sialidases (neuraminidases) suggest a host-variable protective role in secreted mucus.
Bats use social information within and across species
Authors: Culina Antica , Garroway Colin J.
Published: October 2019

In Focus: Lewanzik, D., Sundaramurthy, A. K., Goerlitz, H. R. (2019). . Journal of Animal Ecology, 88, 1462–1473.

Social interactions can generate social structures that shape the fate of individuals and populations. A key feature of social environments is the information produced by others. Whether actively shared or obtained via ‘eavesdropping’, individuals of many species use publically available information to guide their decision making in important ways. Lewanzik et al. (2019) explore social information use within and across several echolocating bat species. They experimentally manipulated the content of social information about prey abundance with playback experiments of echolocation calls. All species were found to use heterospecific and conspecific social information about conspecific activity levels and prey abundance. This is a rare experimental confirmation of social information use at a community level.
The Neurospora RNA polymerase II kinase CTK negatively regulates catalase expression in a chromatin context‐dependent manner
Authors: Duan Jiabin , Liu Qingqing , Su Sodgerel , Cha Joonseok , Zhou Yike , Tang Ruiqi , Liu Xiao , Wang Ying , Liu Yi , He Qun
Published: October 2019

Clearance and adaptation to reactive oxygen species (ROS) are crucial for cell survival. As in other eukaryotes, the Neurospora catalases are the main enzymes responsible for ROS clearance and their expression are tightly regulated by the growth and environmental conditions. The RNA polymerase II carboxyl terminal domain (RNAPII CTD) kinase complex (CTK complex) is known as a positive elongation factor for many inducible genes by releasing paused RNAPII near the transcription start site and promoting transcription elongation. However, here we show that deletion of CTK complex components in Neurospora led to high CAT‐3 expression level and resistance to H2O2‐induced ROS stress. The catalytic activity of CTK‐1 is required for such a response. On the other hand, CTK‐1 overexpression led to decreased expression of CAT‐3. ChIP assays shows that CTK‐1 phosphorylates the RNAPII CTD at Ser2 residues in the cat‐3 ORF region during transcription elongation and deletion of CTK‐1 led to dramatic decreases of SET‐2 recruitment and H3K36me3 modification. As a result, histones at the cat‐3 locus become hyperacetylated to promote its transcription. Together, these results demonstrate that the CTK complex is negative regulator of cat‐3 expression by affecting its chromatin structure.
Plant Extracts Inhibit the Formation of Hydroperoxides and Help Maintain Vitamin E Levels and Omega‐3 Fatty Acids During High Temperature Processing and Storage of Hempseed and Soybean Oils
Authors: Kitts David D. , Singh Anika , Fathordoobady Farahnaz , Doi Brenda , Pratap Singh Anubhav
Published: October 2019

Oxidative stability of hempseed and soybean oils, was evaluated after heating at 180 °C, followed by a subsequent 14‐day storage at 38 °C. Natural plant extracts (Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme) were added to oils, to evaluate the carry‐over stabilizing potential. Heated oils exhibited a relatively faster (P < 0.05) onset of lipid oxidation, as depicted by the analysis of the peroxides and aldehydes formed during the lipid oxidation process, with hempseed oil being more susceptible to lipid oxidation than soybean oil. There were notable losses in ω‐3 PUFA and ω−6‐GLA during storage of heat treated hempseed oil (P < 0.05). Moreover, peroxide values measured from hempseed oil remained low after high‐temperature heating but progressed at a relatively greater rate than that observed in soybean during storage (P < 0.05). The addition of different plant extracts to oils did not prevent oxidation due to heating, but effectively inhibited the generation of hydroperoxides during subsequent storage (P < 0.05). This stabilizing effect was attributed to retention of tocopherols, in particular, γ‐tocopherol.

Practical Application

This research demonstrates the use of plant extracts like rosemary, sage and thyme, for improving the shelf‐life and nutritional stability of hempseed and soybean oil. We demonstrate the deterioration of fatty acid profiles and vitamin E levels in the oil on heating and subsequent storage, and show the efficacy of using plant extracts in slowing down these deteriorations. This research will be applicable in food industries using or producing oils for use in food during cooking, and also as dressing on already processed food products.
Investigating Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Marketed Ready‐to‐Eat Small Crickets (Acheta domesticus)
Authors: Roncolini Andrea , Cardinali Federica , Aquilanti Lucia , Milanović Vesna , Garofalo Cristiana , Sabbatini Riccardo , Abaker Mahasin Salih Suliman , Pandolfi Matteo , Pasquini Marina , Tavoletti Stefano , Clementi Francesca , Osimani Andrea
Published: October 2019

The present investigation was aimed at evaluating the occurrence of transferable genes conferring resistance to tetracyclines, macrolide‐lincosamide‐streptogramin B (MLSB), vancomycin, beta‐lactams, and aminoglycosides in 32 samples from eight batches of ready‐to‐eat crickets (Acheta domesticus) commercialized by four European Union producers (two batches per producer). Bacterial DNA extracted directly from the insects was subjected to optimized polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested‐PCR assays for the qualitative detection of 12 selected antibiotic resistance (AR) genes. Microbial enumeration demonstrated high counts of spore‐forming bacteria and total mesophilic aerobes. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences between different producers and insect batches. Regarding AR genes, a high prevalence of genes conferring resistance to tetracycline [tet(M), tet(O), tet(K), tet(S)] was observed, together with the presence of genes conferring resistance to erythromycin [erm(B), erm(C)], beta‐lactams (blaZ and mecA), and aminoglycosides [aac(6’)‐Ie aph(2”)‐Ia]. We performed a principal component analysis based on the AR gene frequencies that differentiated samples of batch 1 from those of batch 2. This analysis provided evidence for a difference between the producer from France and all the other producers among the batch 1 samples.

Practical application

Overall, an intrabatch variation was seen in the transferable resistances among different producers. This evidence, coupled with the observed differences in the viable counts, suggests a low standardization of the production processes. Hence, a prudent use of antimicrobials during the rearing of insects destined for human consumption is strongly recommended, as well as a need for a full standardization of production technologies.
Metabarcoding of eukaryotic parasite communities describes diverse parasite assemblages spanning the primate phylogeny
Authors: Gogarten Jan F. , Calvignac‐Spencer Sébastien , Nunn Charles L. , Ulrich Markus , Saiepour Nasrin , Nielsen Henrik Vedel , Deschner Tobias , Fichtel Claudia , Kappeler Peter M. , Knauf Sascha , Müller‐Klein Nadine , Ostner Julia , Robbins Martha M. , Sangmaneedet Somboon , Schülke Oliver , Surbeck Martin , Wittig Roman M. , Sliwa Alexander , Strube Christina , Leendertz Fabian H. , Roos Christian , Noll Angela
Published: October 2019

Despite their ubiquity, in most cases little is known about the impact of eukaryotic parasites on their mammalian hosts. Comparative approaches provide a powerful method to investigate the impact of parasites on host ecology and evolution, though two issues are critical for such efforts: controlling for variation in methods of identifying parasites and incorporating heterogeneity in sampling effort across host species. To address these issues, there is a need for standardized methods to catalogue eukaryotic parasite diversity across broad phylogenetic host ranges. We demonstrate the feasibility of a metabarcoding approach for describing parasite communities by analysing faecal samples from 11 nonhuman primate species representing divergent lineages of the primate phylogeny and the full range of sampling effort (i.e. from no parasites reported in the literature to the best‐studied primates). We detected a number of parasite families and regardless of prior sampling effort, metabarcoding of only ten faecal samples identified parasite families previously undescribed in each host (x̅ = 8.5 new families per species). We found more overlap between parasite families detected with metabarcoding and published literature when more research effort—measured as the number of publications—had been conducted on the host species' parasites. More closely related primates and those from the same continent had more similar parasite communities, highlighting the biological relevance of sampling even a small number of hosts. Collectively, results demonstrate that metabarcoding methods are sensitive and powerful enough to standardize studies of eukaryotic parasite communities across host species, providing essential new tools for macroecological studies of parasitism.
Comparing Changes in Controlled Substance Prescribing Trends by Provider Type
Authors: Meadows Amy L. , Strickland Justin C. , Qalbani Shiraz , Conner Kailyn L. , Su Amanda , Rush Craig R.
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives

Forty‐nine out of 50 states have implemented Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) to monitor controlled substance (CS) prescribing. PDMPs change health care provider behavior, but few studies have examined changes in CS prescription by health care provider type.

Methods

Aggregated yearly data, including number of CS prescriptions, doses, and doses per prescription by health care provider type (physician, advanced practice registered nurse [APRN], and dentist) for each year from 2011 to 2017 was provided by the state PDMP, Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting System (KASPER). In aggregate, this data set included 64,578,307 total prescriptions and 3,982,130,994 total doses of Schedule II–V medications.

Results

Physicians and dentists showed a trend of decreasing prescriptions and doses for Schedule II opioids from 2012 to 2017 (27‐32% reduction in 2017 compared to 2011). APRNs showed a substantive increase in the number of doses and prescriptions (121‐204% increase in 2017 compared to 2011), with increases remaining when controlling for number of providers. Physicians increased doses and prescriptions of Schedule II stimulants (37% increase for both doses and prescriptions), but by a smaller magnitude than APRN increases in stimulants (334‐360% increase). Dentists showed decreases in Schedule II stimulants prescribed (69‐80% reduction). Similar trends, but more modest in magnitude, were observed for Schedule III–IV.

Discussion and Conclusions

Although monitoring and continuing education requirements are similar across all providers in Kentucky, differences in prescription trends for Schedule II opioids and stimulants were noted for physicians, APRNs, and dentists.

Scientific Significance

Changes in prescribing following introduction of mandatory use of KASPER markedly differed based on provider type, with increases observed for APRNs compared with physicians and dentists. These findings advance prior research by providing a detailed examination of prescribing trends by provider type subsequent to a PDMPs mandatory use law. (Am J Addict 2019;00:00–00)
The missed period
Authors: MANKEKAR PURNIMA , GUPTA AKHIL
Published: October 2019

Business process outsourcing (BPO) industries providing customer service are characterized by three features: the product of labor is affect; affect is central to the labor process; and affect constitutes a crucial modality for the workers’ subject formation. This affective labor is distinctive in that workers’ connections to their customers are live, transnational, and interactive. Such BPOs constitute a form of capitalist production in which profits are based on the management and monetization of affect, including brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. Affective labor generates disjunctive temporalities that are coimplicated with those of family life and with routines of schooling, ritual, and religion. These disjunctive temporalities engender modes of embodiment that are crucial to how BPO workers are constituted as specific kinds of laboring subjects. [affective labor, temporality, business process outsourcing, digital capitalism, Bengaluru, India]
Venous thromboembolic events in the tofacitinib ulcerative colitis clinical development programme
Authors: Sandborn William J. , Panés Julian , Sands Bruce E. , Reinisch Walter , Su Chinyu , Lawendy Nervin , Koram Nana , Fan Haiyun , Jones Thomas V. , Modesto Irene , Quirk Daniel , Danese Silvio
Published: October 2019

Background

Tofacitinib is an oral, small molecule JAK inhibitor for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Aim

To report incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in the tofacitinib UC programme.

Methods

DVT and PE were evaluated from one phase 2 and two phase 3 induction studies, one phase 3 maintenance study and an ongoing, open‐label, long‐term extension (OLE) study (September 2018 datacut). Data were analysed in induction, maintenance and overall (patients receiving ≥ 1 dose of tofacitinib 5 or 10 mg b.d. in any phase 2, 3 or OLE study) cohorts.

Results

1157 patients (2404 patient‐years’ exposure; ≤ 6.1 years’ tofacitinib treatment) were evaluated in the overall cohort. In induction, one placebo‐treated patient had DVT and one had PE; no tofacitinib‐treated patients had DVT/PE. In maintenance, one placebo‐treated patient had DVT and one had PE; no tofacitinib‐treated patients had DVT/PE. In the overall cohort, one patient had DVT (incidence rate [patients with events/100 patient‐years; 95% CI]: 0.04 [0.00‐0.23]); four had PE (0.16 [0.04‐0.41]); all received predominant dose tofacitinib 10 mg b.d.; all had venous thromboembolism risk factors alongside UC.

Conclusions

In this post hoc analysis of patients with UC, during tofacitinib exposure, one patient had DVT and four had PE, all during the OLE study, on predominant dose 10 mg b.d. (83% of overall cohort patients received predominant dose 10 mg b.d.) with venous thromboembolism risk factors. This analysis is limited by small sample size and limited drug exposure; further studies are needed. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00787202, NCT01465763, NCT01458951, NCT01458574, NCT01470612.
Prevalence and determinants of uptake of folic acid in peri‐conceptional period in a rural lower‐middle‐income country, Ghana
Authors: Mohammed Baba Sulemana , Kawawa Abubakar Rashid , Wemakor Anthony
Published: October 2019

Folate is a vitamin B‐related substance needed by expectant mothers during the period right before and after conception (peri‐conceptional period) to help protect foetuses against neural tube defects (NTDs). Despite efforts to promote the peri‐conceptional uptake of folic acid (FA), adherence remains low. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and determinants of peri‐conceptional FA uptake among childbearing women in northern Ghana. In a cross‐sectional study, data from 303 women accessing antenatal care services in the Upper East Region of Ghana between February and July 2017 were collected and analysed in Stata (Version 12.1). Chi‐square and logistic regression analysis were used to identify the independent determinants of peri‐conceptional uptake of FA. The mean age of the study population was 27.4 (±5.73) years. The prevalence of uptake of peri‐conceptional FA was 28.7% (95% confidence interval: 26.7%‐34.2%); 66% of the women were aware of FA and 52% had acceptable knowledge about FA. Initiating ANC after 3 months of pregnancy was associated with 91% less chance of peri‐conceptional FA use [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0.09; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04‐0.22; P < .001]. Not knowing the frequency of dosing of FA was associated with a 58% less likelihood of uptake of peri‐conceptional FA (AOR 0.42; 95% CI 0.23‐0.76; P = .004). There is low uptake of peri‐conceptional FA among women of childbearing age accessing antenatal services in Northern Ghana, and this uptake is determined by the time of initiation of ANC visit and knowledge of dosage regimen of FA.
An ecological framework of neophobia: from cells to organisms to populations
Authors: Crane Adam L. , Brown Grant E. , Chivers Douglas P. , Ferrari Maud C. O.
Published: October 2019

Neophobia is the fear of novel stimuli or situations. This phenotype has recently received much ecological attention, primarily in the context of decision making. Here, we explore neophobia across biological levels of organisation, first describing types of neophobia among animals and the underlying causes of neophobia, highlighting high levels of risk and uncertainty as key drivers. We place neophobia in the framework of Error Management Theory and Signal Detection Theory, showing how increases in overall risk and uncertainty can lead to costly non‐responses towards novel threats unless individuals lower their response threshold and become neophobic. We then discuss how neophobic behaviour translates into population and evolutionary consequences before introducing neophobia‐like processes at the cellular level, where some phenomena such as allergy and autoimmunity can parallel neophobic behaviour. Finally, we discuss neophobia attenuation, considering how a sudden change in the environment from dangerous to safe can lead to problematic over‐responses (i.e. the ‘maladaptive defensive carry‐over’ hypothesis), and discuss treatment methods for such over‐responses. We anticipate that bridging the concept of neophobia with a process‐centered perspective can facilitate a transfer of insight across organisational levels.
Skeletal abnormalities are common features in Aymé‐Gripp syndrome
Authors: Niceta Marcello , Barbuti Domenico , Gupta Neerja , Ruggiero Carlos , Tizzano Eduardo F. , Graul‐Neumann Luitgard , Barresi Sabina , Nishimura Gen , Valenzuela Irene , López‐Grondona Fermina , Fernandez‐Alvarez Paula , Leoni Chiara , Zweier Christiane , Tzschach Andreas , Stellacci Emilia , Del Fattore Andrea , Dallapiccola Bruno , Zampino Giuseppe , Tartaglia Marco
Published: October 2019

Aymé‐Gripp syndrome (AYGRPS) is a recognizable condition caused by a restricted spectrum of dominantly acting missense mutations affecting the transcription factor MAF. Major clinical features of AYGRPS include congenital cataracts, sensorineural hearing loss, intellectual disability, and a distinctive flat facial appearance. Skeletal abnormalities have also been observed in affected individuals, even though these features have not been assessed systematically. Expanding the series with four additional patients, here we provide a more accurate delineation of the molecular aspects and clinical phenotype, particularly focusing on the skeletal features characterizing this disorder. Apart from previously reported malar flattening and joint limitations, we document that carpal/tarsal and long bone defects, and hip dysplasia occur in affected subjects more frequently than formerly appreciated.
Accounting change in the Scottish and Westminster central governments: A study of voice and legitimation
Authors: Hyndman Noel , Liguori Mariannuziata
Published: October 2019

Organisational voice processes are crucial during change. These will affect actors’ individual understanding of change and the way in which change is perceived and legitimated generally. Looking at accounting changes at two government levels (Westminster and Scotland), this paper explores relationships between organisational voice processes during change (exploring these in terms of horizontal/vertical and promotive/prohibitive dimensions) and legitimation strategies subsequently used by the actors involved. In Westminster, where promotive vertical voicing was particularly identifiable, interviewees predominantly legitimated change through rationalisation strategies. In Scotland, where prohibitive, horizontal voice processes were more evident, authorisation strategies tended to prevail. However, regardless of the content and direction of voice, ultimately, the vast majority of key accounting changes in both Westminster and Scotland were supported (legitimated) by actors.
Structural analysis of glycated human hemoglobin using native mass spectrometry
Authors: Muralidharan Monita , Bhat Vijay , Mandal Amit Kumar
Published: October 2019

Glycated hemoglobin (GHb) is the indicator of the long‐term glycemic index of an individual. GHb is formed by the irreversible modification of N‐terminal α‐amino group of β globin chain with glucose via Amadori rearrangement. Cation exchange chromatography exploits the difference in surface charges between GHb and native hemoglobin (HbA0) for their separation and quantification. However, glucose condensation is specific to primary amino groups. Therefore, structural characterization of GHb synthesized in vivo is essential as multiple glycation may interfere with GHb assessment. The stoichiometric composition of different glycated hemoglobin from a 19% GHb sample was deduced using native mass spectrometry. We observed a comparable population of α and β glycated tetramers for mono‐glycated HbA0. Surprisingly, doubly and triply glycated HbA0 also showed mono‐glycated α and β globins. Thus, we propose that glycation of hemoglobin (HbA) occurs symmetrically across α and β globins with preference to unmodified globin first. Correlation between conventional and mass spectrometry‐based quantification of GHb showed a reliable estimation of the glycemic index of individuals carrying HbA0. Mutant HbAs have different retention time than HbA0 due to the differences in their surface charge. Thus, their glycated analog may elute at different retention time compared to GHb. Consequently, our method would be ideal for assessing the glycemic index of an individual carrying mutant HbA.
Episodic and Continuous Recharge Estimation from High‐Resolution Well Records
Authors: Eaton Timothy T.
Published: October 2019

Water table fluctuation (WTF) methods are a primary and well‐established way to determine groundwater recharge based on the direct response of the water table to precipitation input. An emerging complexity of recharge is whether it occurs as an episodic and transient process, or a continuous steady‐state process, however, most studies have not focused on these short‐term vs. long‐term timescales, in part because of a lack of data resolution. Here, high‐resolution (subhourly) precipitation and water‐level data are analyzed for wells in the suburbs of New York City using two contrasting WTF approaches, with a common mathematical basis, that are suited to episodic and continuous processes. The resulting hourly recharge results, like the individual water‐level records from comparable wells, are sensitive indicators of subtle differences in aquifer conditions such as thickness of the unsaturated zone, position in the flow system and localized preferential flow. While the episodic, transient approach excludes diffuse recharge by design, the continuous, steady‐state approach is influenced by short‐term precipitation events, and therefore integrates transient processes to some extent. However, the continuous, steady‐state approach is subject to its own limitations relating to position in the aquifer system, and may overestimate recharge if aquifer conditions are not well understood. More widespread use of higher resolution data as well as understanding aquifer conditions and refining aquifer parameters would improve WTF recharge estimation.
Road exposure and the detectability of birds in field surveys
Authors: Cooke Sophia C. , Balmford Andrew , Johnston Alison , Massimino Dario , Newson Stuart E. , Donald Paul F.
Published: October 2019

Road ecology, the study of the impacts of roads and their traffic on wildlife, including birds, is a rapidly growing field, with research showing effects on local avian population densities up to several kilometres from a road. However, in most studies, the effects of roads on the detectability of birds by surveyors are not accounted for. This could be a significant source of error in estimates of the impacts of roads on birds and could also affect other studies of bird populations. Using road density, traffic volume and bird count data from across Great Britain, we assess the relationships between roads and detectability of a range of bird species. Of 51 species analysed, the detectability of 36 was significantly associated with road exposure, in most cases inversely. Across the range of road exposure recorded for each species, the mean positive change in detectability was 52% and the mean negative change was 36%, with the strongest negative associations found in smaller‐bodied species and those for which aural cues are more important in detection. These associations between road exposure and detectability could be caused by a reduction in surveyors’ abilities to hear birds or by changes in birds’ behaviour, making them harder or easier to detect. We suggest that future studies of the impacts of roads on populations of birds or other taxa, and other studies using survey data from road‐exposed areas, should account for the potential impacts of roads on detectability.
Butterflies in corridors: quality matters for specialists
Authors: Habel Jan Christian , Ulrich Werner , Schmitt Thomas
Published: October 2019

Agricultural intensification and subsequent landscape homogenisation have caused severe losses of insects across major parts of Europe. In consequence, most animal and plant populations today exist in small and isolated habitat patches. Thus, there is an urgent need to increase landscape permeability to foster the exchange of individuals and thereby to promote the long‐term persistence of populations and species. Corridors can help to connect local habitats and populations. Nonetheless, whether species use a corridor and how species behave in a corridor strongly depend on species' ecology and the quality of the corridor.

In this study, we analysed the behaviour of 753 individuals of five butterfly species of the subfamily Satyrinae (Coenonympha pamphilus, C. arcania, Maniola jurtina, Melanargia galathea, and Erebia medusa) in a high‐quality habitat, in two corridors with different habitat qualities, and in arable fields.

Butterflies undertake more frequent and much longer flights in arable fields, and a more range‐restricted behaviour with perching and visiting of flowers in corridors and inside the original high‐quality habitat. Specialist butterflies only rarely leave the corridor and fly into the matrix if compared with generalist butterfly species. Furthermore, the relative difference in the probability of leaving a corridor was much more pronounced between the two corridor qualities for specialists than for generalists.

In conclusion, corridors with high habitat quality, such as many flowering plants, support species and population persistence. Specialist species especially respond to corridor quality, such as the availability of flowers or a calcareous grassland‐like species composition.
The influence of different SiC amounts on the microstructure, densification, and mechanical properties of hot‐pressed Al2O3‐SiC composites
Authors: Akbari Elaheh , Ghassemi Kakroudi Mahdi , Shahedifar Vahideh , Ghiasi Hanieh
Published: October 2019

The hot pressing process of monolithic Al2O3 and Al2O3‐SiC composites with 0‐25 wt% of submicrometer silicon carbide was done in this paper. The presence of SiC particles prohibited the grain growth of the Al2O3 matrix during sintering at the temperatures of 1450°C and 1550°C for 1 h and under the pressure of 30 MPa in vacuum. The effect of SiC reinforcement on the mechanical properties of composite specimens like fracture toughness, flexural strength, and hardness was discussed. The results showed that the maximum values of fracture toughness (5.9 ± 0.5 MPa.m1/2) and hardness (20.8 ± 0.4 GPa) were obtained for the Al2O3‐5 wt% SiC composite specimens. The significant improvement in fracture toughness of composite specimens in comparison with the monolithic alumina (3.1 ± 0.4 MPa.m1/2) could be attributed to crack deflection as one of the toughening mechanisms with regard to the presence of SiC particles. In addition, the flexural strength was improved by increasing SiC value up to 25 wt% and reached 395 ± 1.4 MPa. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations verified that the increasing of flexural strength was related to the fine‐grained microstructure.
Application of nanoemulsions (w/o) with active compounds of cactus pear fruit in starch films to improve antioxidant activity and incorporate antibacterial property
Authors: Medina‐Pérez Gabriela , Hernández‐Uribe Juan P. , Fernández‐León Dania , Prince Laurette , Fernández‐Luqueño Fabián , Campos‐Montiel Rafael G.
Published: October 2019

In order to improve the quality of food and extend its shelf life, preservation methods have been developed. Edible films have aroused potential interest in food preservation due to their ability to maintain quality product attributes. The objective of this research was to incorporate nanoencapsulated compounds of cactus pear “xoconostle” (Opuntia oligacantha C.F. Först) into “chayotextle” (Sechium edule Sw.) starch films. For the formulation of the starch films, different concentrations of nanoemulsion (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8%) were used. Phenols, flavonoids, antioxidant activities (ABTS [2,2‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonate)] and DPPH [2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl]), antibacterial properties, and mechanical properties (tensile strength, Young's modulus, and elongation percentage) of the films were analyzed. The results showed significant differences (p < .05) between the formulations. In phenols and antioxidant properties, DPPH had a significant increase (p < .5) during storage. In contrast, in flavonoids and antioxidant (ABTS) activities, a decrease was observed. Inhibition was observed with gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium). No significant (p > .05) changes were found in traction resistance in up to 30 days of storage. In Young's modulus and elongation percentage, significant differences were found (p < .05). The addition of nanoencapsulated compounds of cactus pear produces active films of starch with antioxidant and antibacterial properties.

Practical Application

Currently, it is very important for consumers that food conservation be achieved using natural products. Films based on polymers of natural origin could be used as food packaging technologies. Particularly, the starch of indigenous origin like the “chayotextle” (chayote tuber) has been demonstrated to be suitable for the elaboration of films. The addition of oils and bioactive extracts from fruits and plants to films improves the conservative properties of foods. These natural additives have bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. One source of these compounds is the cactus pear Opuntia oligacantha C.F. Först (xoconostle). Bioactive compounds are unstable especially when they are exposed to environmental factors. Hence, encapsulation systems have been designed for their protection and controlled release as nanoemulsions. The films with the addition of nanoemulsions have shown an improvement in antioxidant activity and have incorporated antibacterial activity in contrast to the control film. Consequently, these films can better preserve foods for more time without using synthetic products.