bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Understanding Pelvic-Floor Tissue of Women With and Without Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Considerations for Physical Therapists
Authors: Saunders Kimberly
Published: February 2017

Pelvic organ prolapse is a fairly common condition that imposes significant symptoms, diminished quality of life, social burden, financial expense, and surgical risk on women. As evidence supporting the benefit of pelvic-floor muscle training in nonsurgical management of pelvic organ prolapse grows, physical therapists are becoming a provider of choice interacting with women affected by pelvic organ prolapse. This perspective article will review recent research on tissue characteristics of 3 key components of pelvic organ support: skeletal muscle, ligament, and vaginal wall. This information will be summarized as implications for physical therapists. An improved understanding of pelvic-floor tissue in women with and without pelvic organ prolapse will provide a more comprehensive appreciation of the interaction of multiple systems in the disorder.
Migraine and magnetic resonance spectroscopy: a systematic review
Authors: Younis Samaira , Hougaard Anders , Vestergaard Mark B. , Larsson Henrik B.W. , Ashina Messoud
Published: February 2017

Purpose of review

To present an updated and streamlined overview of the metabolic and biochemical aspect of the migraine pathophysiology based on findings from phosphorous (31P) and hydrogen (1H) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies.

Recent findings

Despite of the variation in the methodology and quality of the MRS migraine studies over time, some results were consistent and reproducible. 31P-MRS studies suggested reduced availability of neuronal energy and implied a mitochondrial dysfunction in the migraine brain. 1H-MRS studies reported interictal abnormalities in the excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), suggesting persistent altered excitability in migraine patients. N-Acetylaspartate levels were decreased in migraine, probably due to a mitochondrial dysfunction and abnormal energy metabolism. The reported abnormalities may increase the susceptibility of migraine patients to excitatory stimulation, such as migraine attack triggers.

Several biochemical aspects of the migraine pathophysiology remain to be elucidated using MRS, such as the migraine attack, correlation to disease severity, and medication efficacy. Nevertheless, to identify a biomarker in migraine, MRS may be a valuable noninvasive technique.
Similarity identification in gene expression patterns as a new approach in phenotype classification
Authors: Madani Tonekaboni Seyed Ali , Kumar Manem Venkata Satya , El-Hachem Nehme , Haibe-Kains Benjamin
Published: February 2017

Stratifying healthy and malignant phenotypes and identifying their biological states using high-throughput molecular data has been the focus of many computational approaches during the last decade. Using multivariate changes in expression of genes within biological pathways, as fingerprints of complex phenotypes, we developed a new methodology for Similarity Identification in Gene expressioN (SIGN). In this approach, we use centroid classifier to identify phenotype of each biological sample. To obtain similarity of a given biological sample with classes of phenotypes, we defined a new distance measure, transcriptional similarity coefficient (TSC) which captures similarity of gene expression patterns between a biological pathway in two samples or populations. We showed that TSC, as an interpretable and stable distance measure in SIGN, captures all oncogenic hallmarks for breast cancer even with low sample size, by comparing healthy and patient tumor samples in the largest breast cancer dataset. In this study, we demonstrate that SIGN is a flexible, yet robust approach for classification based on transcriptomics data. Comparing early and late relapses within each molecular subtypes of breast cancer, our method enabled subtype-specific stratification of breast cancer patients into groups with significantly different survival. Moreover, we used SIGN to classify with more than 99% specificity the site of extraction of healthy and tumor samples from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets. We showed that SIGN also enables robust identification of hematopoietic stem cell and progenitors within the hematopoietic hierarchy. We further explored chemical perturbation data in the Connectivity Map (CMAP) database and showed that SIGN was able to classify seven classes of drugs based on their mechanism of action. In conclusion, we showed that SIGN can be used to achieve interpretable and robust transcriptomic-based classification of healthy and malignant samples, as well as drugs based on their known mechanism of action, supporting the generalizability and relevance of the method for the analysis of gene expression profiles.
The mutation rates and mutational bias of influenza A virus
Authors: Pauly Matthew D. , Procario Megan , Lauring Adam S.
Published: February 2017

Influenza virus has a high mutation rate, and this low replicative fidelity contributes to its capacity for rapid evolution. Clonal sequencing and fluctuation tests have suggested that the mutation rate of influenza A virus is 7.1 × 10−6− 4.5 × 10−5substitutions per nucleotide per cell infection cycle and 2.7 × 10−6− 3.0 × 10−5substitutions per nucleotide per strand copied (s/n/r). However, sequencing assays are biased toward mutations with minimal impacts on viral fitness and fluctuation tests typically investigate only a subset of the twelve mutational classes. We developed a fluctuation test based on reversion to fluorescence in a set of virally encoded mutant green fluorescent proteins. This method allowed us to measure the rates of selectively neutral mutations representative of all 12 mutational classes in the context of an unstructured RNA. We measured an overall mutation rate of 1.8 × 10−4s/n/r for PR8 (H1N1) and 2.5 × 10−4s/n/r for Hong Kong 2014 (H3N2). The replication mode was linear. The mutation rates of these divergent strains are significantly higher than previous estimates and suggest that each replicated genome will have an average of 2-3 mutations. The viral mutational spectrum is heavily biased toward A to G and U to C transitions, resulting in a transition to transversion bias of 2.7 and 3.6 for the two strains. These mutation rates were relatively constant over a range of physiological temperatures. Our high-resolution analysis of influenza virus mutation rates will enable more refined models of its molecular evolution.

Significance

The rapid evolution of influenza virus is a major problem in public health. A key factor driving this rapid evolution is the virus’ very high mutation rate. We developed a new method for measuring the rates of all 12 mutational classes in influenza virus, which eliminates some of the biases of existing assays. We find that the influenza virus mutation rate is much higher than previously reported and is consistent across two distinct strains and a range of temperatures. Our data suggest that influenza viruses replicate at their maximally tolerable mutation rates, highlighting both the virus’ evolutionary potential and its significant constraints.
Genome-wide protein phylogenies for four African cichlid species
Authors: Varadarajan Ajay Ramakrishnan , Mopuri Rohini , Streelman J. Todd , McGrath Patrick T.
Published: February 2017

Background

The thousands of species of closely related cichlid fishes in the great lakes of East Africa are a powerful model for understanding speciation and the genetic basis of trait variation. Recently, the genomes of five species of African cichlids representing five distinct lineages were sequenced and used to predict protein products at a genome-wide level. Here we characterize the evolutionary relationship of each cichlid protein to previously sequenced animal species.

Results

We used the Treefam database, a set of preexisting protein phylogenies built using 109 previously sequenced genomes, to identify Treefam families for each protein annotated from four cichlid species:Metriaclima zebra, Astatotilapia burtoni, Pundamilia nyerereiandNeolamporologus brichardi.For each of these Treefam families, we built new protein phylogenies containing each of the cichlid protein hits. Using these new phylogenies we identified the evolutionary relationship of each cichlid protein to its nearest human and zebrafish protein. This data is available either through download or through a webserver we have implemented.

Conclusion

These phylogenies will be useful for any cichlid researchers trying to predict biological and protein function for a given cichlid gene, understanding the evolutionary history of a given cichlid gene, identifying recently duplicated cichlid genes, or performing genome-wide analysis in cichlids that relies on using databases generated from other species.
Transcriptome analyses of rhesus monkey preimplantation embryos reveal a reduced capacity for DNA double-strand break repair in primate oocytes and early embryos
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Liu Denghui , He Dajian , Suo Shengbao , Xia Xian , He Xiechao , Han Jing-Dong J. , Zheng Ping
Published: February 2017

Preimplantation embryogenesis encompasses several critical events including genome reprogramming, zygotic genome activation (ZGA), and cell-fate commitment. The molecular basis of these processes remains obscure in primates in which there is a high rate of embryo wastage. Thus, understanding the factors involved in genome reprogramming and ZGA might help reproductive success during this susceptible period of early development and generate induced pluripotent stem cells with greater efficiency. Moreover, explaining the molecular basis responsible for embryo wastage in primates will greatly expand our knowledge of species evolution. By using RNA-seq in single and pooled oocytes and embryos, we defined the transcriptome throughout preimplantation development in rhesus monkey. In comparison to archival human and mouse data, we found that the transcriptome dynamics of monkey oocytes and embryos were very similar to those of human but very different from those of mouse. We identified several classes of maternal and zygotic genes, whose expression peaks were highly correlated with the time frames of genome reprogramming, ZGA, and cell-fate commitment, respectively. Importantly, comparison of the ZGA-related network modules among the three species revealed less robust surveillance of genomic instability in primate oocytes and embryos than in rodents, particularly in the pathways of DNA damage signaling and homology-directed DNA double-strand break repair. This study highlights the utility of monkey models to better understand the molecular basis for genome reprogramming, ZGA, and genomic stability surveillance in human early embryogenesis and may provide insights for improved homologous recombination-mediated gene editing in monkey.
The use of small-molecule structures to complement protein–ligand crystal structures in drug discovery
Authors: Groom Colin R. , Cole Jason C.
Published: February 2017

Many ligand-discovery stories tell of the use of structures of protein–ligand complexes, but the contribution of structural chemistry is such a core part of finding and improving ligands that it is often overlooked. More than 800 000 crystal structures are available to the community through the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD). Individually, these structures can be of tremendous value and the collection of crystal structures is even more helpful. This article provides examples of how small-molecule crystal structures have been used to complement those of protein–ligand complexes to address challenges ranging from affinity, selectivity and bioavailability though to solubility.
(1S,2R,8R)-11-Amino-2,2-dichloro-3,7,7,10-tetramethyltricyclo[6.4.0.01,3]dodec-10-en-9-one
Authors: Ait Elhad Mustapha , Benharref Ahmed , El Ammari Lahcen , Saadi Mohamed , Oukhrib Abdelouahd , Berraho Moha
Published: February 2017

The title compound, C16H23Cl2NO, crystallizes in the monoclinic space groupP21with two independent molecules (AandB) in the asymmetric unit. They have essentially the same conformation. Each molecule is built up from fused six- and seven-membered rings and an additional three-membered ring. The six-membered ring has an envelope conformation, with the C atom belonging to the three-membered ring forming the flap, while the seven-membered ring displays a boat conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked into chains propagating along thea-axis direction by N—H...O hydrogen bonds.
Organizational constitution, organizational identification, and executive pay
Authors: Kline William , Kotabe Masaaki , Hamilton Robert , Ridgley Stanley
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights from the upper echelon, agency, and organizational identification literatures to help explain cross-cultural differences in top management team pay.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a theoretical paper building upon the executive compensation literature examining US and Japanese pay schemes.

Findings

The paper presents three propositions relating to the influence of organizational constitution and organizational identification on the level of pay, as well as the allocation of pay in top management team compensation schemes.

Originality/value

There is relatively little research focusing on why there are cross-cultural pay differences. This paper uses US and Japanese studies to highlight mechanisms that can foster principal-agent goal alignment in different contexts.
Psychological contract violation
Authors: Chih Wen-Hai , Chiu Tao-Sheng , Lan Li-Chi , Fang Wen-Chang
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationships between consumers’ perceived justice and their behavioral intentions and explores the effects of psychological contract violation on the relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts sampling through the survey to consumers after restaurant dining. This study collected data from 400 respondents and analyzed the data with the structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate that consumers who experience higher level of distribution justice and procedure justice are more likely to have behavioral intentions. This study also reveals that psychological contract violation is a partial mediator of the above relationships. Consumers will feel less psychological contract violation when they perceive more distribution justice and procedure justice and will not significantly affect them more likely to repurchase intention.

Originality/value

During restaurant service, if consumers feel distribution or procedure injustice, they are more likely to engage in negative word-of-mouth. However, the lack of significant and positive effect of interaction justice on negative word-of-mouth in this study can be because of other intervening variables, such as intensity. Furthermore, in terms of customer’s repurchase intention, the results indicate significant and positive effects for all three types of justice on repurchase intention.
The plights of Eritrean refugees in the Shimelba Refugee Camp, Ethiopia
Authors: Arega Natnael Terefe
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Thousands of Eritrean youth flee due to extreme domestic discontent with Eritrean Government. Little research has been done on Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia. The purpose of this paper is to explore the difficulties facing Eritrean refugees in the Shimelba Refugee Camp in northern Ethiopia. The study explores the refugees’ pre-migration experiences as well as their life difficulties in the refugee camp.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a cross-sectional qualitative approach. Relevant data were collected through personal interviews with a sample of 15 refugees. The study was also supplemented by the researcher’s personal observations regarding the living conditions of the refugees in the camp.

Findings

Gross human rights violations at home forced the Eritreans to flee in to Ethiopia. Refugees reported their experiences of arrest, torture, and abuse, due to their dissenting political and religious opinions. Moreover, they fled Eritrea to escape harsh compulsory conscription into the Eritrean military service. Unemployment and lack of income were also important push factors. Factors identified as threats to the psychosocial health of refugees at the refugee camp include the feeling of isolation, the absolute uncertainty of the future, fears concerning the safety of the family left behind, the strictness of the structure within the camp, and the fear of health-related problems associated with the limited health care facilities.

Research limitations/implications

Further research investigating the mental health problems of the refugees employing quantitative methods is needed. Also, research about the potential avenues for ameliorating the challenges faced by these refugees is desirable.

Originality/value

This paper gives an insight to the situation of Eritrean refugees in Ethiopia, which includes the reasons why they flee Eritrea, their experiences during flight, and the conditions in which Eritrean refugees live in the camp from the point of view of the refugees themselves. Understanding the challenges facing the refugees has implications for how short- and long-term policies can be altered to better serve them.
Exploring food and healthy eating with newcomers in Winnipeg’s North End
Authors: Henderson Amy , Epp-Koop Stefan , Slater Joyce
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with attempting to maintain a healthy traditional diet for newcomers living in the North End neighbourhood of Winnipeg, Canada.

Design/methodology/approach

In this mixed-methods photovoice study the researcher used food photographs taken by participants to facilitate in-depth, semi-structured interviews with newcomers living in the area of interest. Community workers involved in food and newcomer programming were also interviewed. Qualitative data from the interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Food security status of newcomer participants was also determined using The Household Food Security Survey Module.

Findings

Newcomer participants reported many struggles, including low incomes, gardening challenges and little access to culturally acceptable foods. Community worker interviews, field notes and an environmental scan of community resources also revealed a lack of social inclusion/support and few food and nutrition resources for newcomers.

Originality/value

Newcomers to Canada experience high rates of food insecurity and diminishing health status associated with length of time in Canada. This study demonstrates an imminent need for additional resources and programmes in this inner city community in order to decrease food security rates and help newcomers in Winnipeg to eat healthy traditional diets and avoid a decline in health.
Leadership, “communityship,” and “the good folk”
Authors: Mintzberg Henry , Caldwell Cam
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify critical challenges to public leaders in troubled times, based on the experience and thoughts of an accomplished and world-renowned academic in the field of strategy and leadership. The authors have also included it on the original paper, which is attached.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi-structured interview was conducted based on a series of questions that are considered pertinent to the challenges facing public leaders.

Findings

The key findings suggest that individualism and egos are too dominant, that there is an absence of effective ethical leadership which, together, overshadows the need for community action.

Originality/value

This summary of the short interview provides a unique insight into the challenges facing public leadership.
Reading databases: slow information interactions beyond the retrieval paradigm
Authors: Feinberg Melanie
Published: February 2017

Purpose

In this conceptual essay, the purpose of this paper is to argue that the structure of databases and other information systems provides valuable information beyond their content. The author contends that reading databases – as a separate, distinct activity from retrieving and reading the documents that databases contain – is an under-studied form of human-information interaction. Because the act of reading databases encourages awareness, reflection, and control over information systems, the author aligns the author’s proposal with “slow” principles, as exemplified by the slow food movement.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents an extended argument to demonstrate the value of reading a database. Reading a database involves understanding the relationship between database structure and database content as an interpretation of the world. For example, when a supermarket puts vermicelli in the pasta section but rice vermicelli in the Asian section, the supermarket suggests that rice vermicelli is more “Asian” than “noodle.” To construct the author’s argument, the author uses examples that range from everyday, mundane activities with information systems (such as using maps and automated navigation systems) to scientific and technical work (systematic reviews of medical evidence).

Findings

The slow, interpretively focused information interactions of reading databases complement the “fast information” approach of outcome-oriented retrieval. To facilitate database reading activities, research should develop tools that focus user attention on the application of database structure to database contents. Another way of saying this is that research should exploit the interactive possibilities of metadata, either human-created or algorithmically generated.

Originality/value

This paper argues that information studies research focuses too heavily on seeking and retrieval. Seeking and retrieval are just two of the many interactions that constitute our everyday activities with information. Reading databases is an area particularly ripe with design possibilities.
Reliability and validity test of a Scoring Rubric for Information Literacy
Authors: van Helvoort Jos , Brand-Gruwel Saskia , Huysmans Frank , Sjoer Ellen
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure reliability and validity of the Scoring Rubric for Information Literacy (Van Helvoort, 2010).

Design/methodology/approach

Percentages of agreement and Intraclass Correlation were used to describe interrater reliability. For the determination of construct validity factor analysis and reliability analysis were used. Criterion validity was calculated with Pearson correlations.

Findings

In the described case, the Scoring Rubric for Information Literacy appears to be a reliable and valid instrument for the assessment of information literate performance.

Originality/value

Reliability and validity are prerequisites to recommend a rubric for application. The results confirm that this Scoring Rubric for Information Literacy can be used in courses in higher education, not only for assessment purposes but also to foster learning.
Open-access mega-journals
Authors: Spezi Valerie , Wakeling Simon , Pinfield Stephen , Creaser Claire , Fry Jenny , Willett Peter
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Open-access mega-journals (OAMJs) represent an increasingly important part of the scholarly communication landscape. OAMJs, such asPLOS ONE, are large scale, broad scope journals that operate an open access business model (normally based on article-processing charges), and which employ a novel form of peer review, focussing on scientific “soundness” and eschewing judgement of novelty or importance. The purpose of this paper is to examine the discourses relating to OAMJs, and their place within scholarly publishing, and considers attitudes towards mega-journals within the academic community.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a review of the literature of OAMJs structured around four defining characteristics: scale, disciplinary scope, peer review policy, and economic model. The existing scholarly literature was augmented by searches of more informal outputs, such as blogs and e-mail discussion lists, to capture the debate in its entirety.

Findings

While the academic literature relating specifically to OAMJs is relatively sparse, discussion in other fora is detailed and animated, with debates ranging from the sustainability and ethics of the mega-journal model, to the impact of soundness-only peer review on article quality and discoverability, and the potential for OAMJs to represent a paradigm-shifting development in scholarly publishing.

Originality/value

This paper represents the first comprehensive review of the mega-journal phenomenon, drawing not only on the published academic literature, but also grey, professional and informal sources. The paper advances a number of ways in which the role of OAMJs in the scholarly communication environment can be conceptualised.
Transformational leadership and psychological empowerment
Authors: Pradhan Rabindra Kumar , Panda Madhusmita , Jena Lalatendu Kesari
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of transformational leadership in psychological empowerment in Indian retail industry. This study also tries to examine whether organizational culture plays a mediating role in the relationships between transformational leadership and psychological empowerment.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 310 respondents was randomly selected from different Indian retail organizations for the study. Data collections were carried out using a set of standardized questionnaires. Raw data were analyzed using SPSS 20.0 and process plugin of Hayes for mediation analysis.

Findings

The empirical investigations of the study have shown that transformational leadership is positively related to psychological empowerment. The study also found partial mediation of organizational culture between transformational leadership and psychological empowerment.

Research limitations/implications

First of all, the sample size of the study is relatively small (n=310). The study is limited to the employees of eastern Indian retail organizations. Second, the common method bias is presumed to influence and inflate the relationships between the variables of the study as the data on all three variables were collected at the same point of time from respondents.

Practical implications

The road map presented in this paper may be helpful for the retail executives to diagnose organizational culture and leadership styles prevailing in the organization and their influence on psychological empowerment. The study may be helpful for retail managers to develop a desirable culture through the practice of transformational leadership that would enhance the empowerment process.

Originality/value

This paper adds value to the limited body of knowledge about the association among transformational leadership, psychological empowerment, and organizational culture. The findings presented in this paper would be beneficial for Indian researchers, OD experts and organization scientists in developing a culture of empowerment by the help of transformational leadership. Unique statistical tools have been used for mediation analysis.
Customer satisfaction in Jamaican hotels through the use of information and communication technology
Authors: Chevers Delroy , Spencer Andrew
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the impact of information and communication technology (ICT) on customer satisfaction in Jamaican hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey approach was used with 213 hotel guests in Jamaica.

Findings

The study found that there was a significant relationship between ICT adoption and hotel guest satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

It is hoped that other researchers will refine the proposed research model.

Practical implications

It is believed that the findings of the study can be used to guide hotel managers regarding the ICT components with the greatest influence on customer satisfaction, which by extension can lead to improved hotel performance.

Social implications

These findings can assist policy makers at the national level in formulating optimal strategies to improve the Jamaican hotel industry.

Originality/value

The paper proposes a research model, which can provide useful insights to hotel administrators regarding increasing the ability to satisfy customers.
Long‐term time series of legume cycles in a semi‐natural montane grassland: evidence for nitrogen‐driven grass dynamics?
Authors: Herben Tomáš , Mayerová Hana , Skálová Hana , Hadincová Věra , Pecháčková Sylvie , Krahulec František
Published: February 2017

Several dynamic models have shown that dynamics of legumes and grasses can result in periodic behaviour. These oscillations arise due to delays in nitrogen flows coupled with differences in ability to compete for light. However, long‐term time series on legume dynamics that could be used to test predictions of these models are almost non‐existent.

We examine legume oscillations in a semi‐natural mountain grassland using a long‐term (Tilde; 30 years) data series on aboveground biomass of individual species and on nitrogen and phosphorus content over time.

Using autocorrelation analysis, we show that there is a strong periodicity (with period of 8–9 years) of legume and grass biomass and nitrogen content in the grass biomass. These three variables are in fairly stable phase shifts relative to each other, with a grass peak followed by a peak in C : N ratio in grasses which is followed by a legume peak. Phosphorus content in either legume or grass biomass does not show synchronous cycling with legume or grass biomass or nitrogen content in grass.

Fitting a dynamic linear model to the data showed that legumes affect nitrogen content in grasses, and grass biomass both affects and is affected by nitrogen content. In contrast, there is no negative effect of grasses on legumes, indicating some other process must be responsible for the legume decline. Manuring, which was occasionally applied to the plots, also does not seem to affect the cycling. Second‐order term for legumes showed some evidence of self‐inhibitory effects in legumes, but phosphorus content in legumes shows no support for phosphorus limitation. The most likely explanation of the legume decline should be sought elsewhere (pathogens, soil biota etc.).

Synthesis. Long‐term data support the existing the claim that legume dynamics are the key driver of nitrogen dynamics in nutrient‐poor semi‐natural grasslands. Grasses benefit from the nutrient enrichment due to legume cycling, but are a passive element and do not play a role in legume limitation. Apart from the role of nutrient cycling, these legume‐driven nutrient dynamics also constitutes processes by which long‐term richness of meadows is maintained.
Species but not genotype diversity strongly impacts the establishment of rare colonisers
Authors: Schöb Christian , Hortal Sara , Karley Alison J. , Morcillo Luna , Newton Adrian C. , Pakeman Robin J. , Powell Jeff R. , Anderson Ian C. , Brooker Rob W.
Published: February 2017

Understanding species coexistence and regulation of biodiversity are major research challenges, yet there is no consensus on the effects of diversity on diversity, including their mediation through plant–plant interactions.

We examined how the diversity of recipient communities impacted on the establishment of colonising species. We ran a greenhouse‐based community experiment, creating artificial arable crop communities with varying levels of barley genotype and weed species diversity, analysed with structural equation modelling of responses across trophic levels.

Colonising arable weed species establishment was significantly reduced when the recipient communities’ weed species richness, but not barley genotype richness, increased. Recipient plant communities with higher species richness occupied more total niche space and showed stronger competition with colonising species. In contrast, recipient plant communities with higher genotype richness, even though they had slightly greater niche space occupancy, had no significant effects on the colonisation of additional species.

Responses were species specific: colonising common weed species establishment was less affected by the recipient plant communities than that of colonising rare weed species. Strong responses of colonising rare species were related to the abiotic rather than the biotic environment created by the recipient communities. The stronger response of colonising rare species suggests greater niche overlap with and competitive inferiority to the recipient plant community, whereas the relative independence of colonising common species indicates less niche overlap and/or competitive equality or superiority.

We observed a negative species diversity effect on colonising species, with the effect size increasing with increasing rarity of the colonising species. This differential responsiveness of colonising rare and common arable weed species to the presence of and diversity in the recipient arable plant communities may be crucial in understanding rarity and may result from differential evolutionary pathways in response to interactions.
Privatising the suburbs: examining the trends and implications of 20 years of private residential development in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Kenna Therese , Goodman Robin , Stevenson Deborah
Published: February 2017

Master planned estates have been the subject of considerable academic interest since the publication of Blakely and Snyder's () typology. The growing provision of private assets, facilities, and infrastructure in such estates has been documented and discussed. However, the extent of this form of residential estate in Australia has yet to be systematically documented. This paper seeks to contribute to knowledge in this field by reference to findings from an investigation in Sydney, Australia, using data from 300 private residential estates constructed under the New South Wales Community Land Development Act, 1989 (community title) over a 20‐year period. The aim is to understand the broad trends emerging in relation to the nature and extent of these types of developments and to consider some of their potential implications. This research suggests that there has been a quiet revolution in residential development and postulates that the extent of privatisation of essential neighbourhood infrastructure has been considerable. The study finds that master planned residential estate development has proliferated, particularly in the outer suburbs and in areas of relative disadvantage, and resulted in enclaves of comparative affluence disconnected from surrounding areas. In addition, the restrictive covenants usually applied in these estates are often designed to prevent change, including future densification or environmental adaptation. To this extent, the privatised nature of these estates puts them beyond the reach of broader urban planning goals.
Elevated temperatures alter competitive outcomes and body condition in southern Appalachian salamanders
Authors: Liles L. A. , Cecala K. K. , Ennen J. R. , Davenport J. M.
Published: February 2017

Temperature elevation due to climate change is directly altering organismal performance and distributions, but the mechanisms behind these shifts require additional attention. Because small aquatic ectotherms are proposed to perform better at future climates, it is possible that competitive interactions in size‐structured communities may also shift. To study the interactive effects of climate and competition on species performance, we evaluated body condition of small and large desmognathan salamanders at current and elevated temperatures in stream mesocosms, and characterized habitat use. In situ evaluation of capture locations demonstrated that the widespread and larger species, Desmognathus conanti, competitively excludes the smaller more narrowly distributed, D. abditus, from stream centers and cooler temperatures, but ex situ mesocosm experiments indicated an interaction between temperature and intra‐ versus inter‐specific competition on D. abditus body condition. At current temperatures, D. abditus body condition increased in the presence of the larger D. conanti, but at elevated temperatures, D. abditus body condition tended to decline in the presence of the larger species relative to intraspecific competitors. We also noted that individuals at future temperatures prioritized growth differently than individuals at current temperatures by shifting allocations away from growth in length to growth in mass consistent with responses of other organisms to stressful conditions that could result in declining reproductive rates. This study demonstrates that processes in size‐structured communities may interact with temperature to affect species’ future success.
Laparoscopic orchidopexy with transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair in an adult
Authors: Omoto Kenichiro , Nishihara Yuichi , Kawaguchi Yoshiki , Urakami Hidejiro , Seki Shiko , Ohishi Takashi , Isobe Yoh , Matsumoto Sumio
Published: February 2017

We report an adult who underwent laparoscopic orchidopexy and transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair. The patient was a 53‐year‐old man who was referred to our hospital for a bulge and pain in his left inguinal area. An abdominal CT scan revealed that the greater omentum was incarcerated in a left inguinal hernia. The patient underwent emergency laparoscopic surgery immediately. After reduction, he was diagnosed with bilateral cryptorchidism and inguinal hernia. After adequate mobilization, pneumoperitoneum was discontinued, and orchidopexy was performed with the Lichtenstein tension‐free hernioplasty. One month later, the patient underwent elective laparoscopic orchidopexy with transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair on his right side. The patient's postoperative course has been uneventful, with no evidence of hernia recurrence to date. This procedure is safe and may be an option for adult patients who desire testis preservation. This may be the first report of laparoscopic hernia repair with orchidopexy.
Methodological considerations for designing a community water fluoridation cessation study
Authors: Singhal Sonica , Farmer Julie , McLaren Lindsay
Published: February 2017

High‐quality, up‐to‐date research on community water fluoridation (CWF), and especially on the implications of CWF cessation for dental health, is limited. Although CWF cessation studies have been conducted, they are few in number; one of the major reasons is the methodological complexity of conducting such a study. This article draws on a systematic review of existing cessation studies (n=15) to explore methodological considerations of conducting CWF cessation studies in future. We review nine important methodological aspects (study design, comparison community, target population, time frame, sampling strategy, clinical indicators, assessment criteria, covariates and biomarkers) and provide recommendations for planning future CWF cessation studies that examine effects on dental caries. There is no one ideal study design to answer a research question. However, recommendations proposed regarding methodological aspects to conduct an epidemiological study to observe the effects of CWF cessation on dental caries, coupled with our identification of important methodological gaps, will be useful for researchers who are looking to optimize resources to conduct such a study with standards of rigour.
What is the difference between the blood–nerve barrier and blood–brain barrier?
Authors: Nakatsuji Yuji
Published: February 2017

The blood–brain barrier and blood–nerve barrier play crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Takeshita et al. reported the different molecular expression pattern in the components constituting the blood–brain barrier and blood–nerve barrier, and suggested that the blood–nerve barrier might have a distinct mechanism for T cell migration.
GLI3‐related polydactyly: a review
Authors: Al‐Qattan M.M. , Shamseldin H.E. , Salih M.A. , Alkuraya F.S.
Published: February 2017

GLI3 mutations are known to be associated with nine syndromes/conditions in which polydactyly is a feature. In this review, the embryology, pathogenesis, and animal models of GLI3‐related polydactyly are discussed first. This is followed by a detailed review of the genotype–phenotype correlations. Based on our review of the literature and our clinical experiences, we recommend viewing GLI3‐related syndromes/conditions as four separate entities; each characterized by a specific pattern of polydactyly. These four entities are: the preaxial polydactyly type IV‐Greig‐acrocallosal spectrum, postaxial polydactyly types A/B, Pallister–Hall syndrome (PHS), and oral‐facial‐digital overlap syndrome. We also provide illustrative clinical examples from our practice including a family with a novel GLI3 mutation causing PHS. The review also introduces the term ‘Forme Fruste’ preaxial polydactyly and gives several conclusions/recommendations including the recommendation to revise the current criteria for the clinical diagnosis of PHS.
Are Brazil deforesters avoiding detection? Reply to Richards et al. 2016
Authors: Bustamante Mercedes M. C. , de Morisson Valeriano Dalton , de Almeida Claudio Aparecido , Cantinho Roberta Zecchini , Maurano Luiz Eduardo Pinheiro , Nobre Carlos A. , Oliveira Pedro V. C. , Ometto Jean P. , Roitman Iris , Rojas Márcio , de O. Santos Mauro Meirelles , Shimbo Julia Zanin
Published: February 2017

The paper “Are Brazil deforesters avoiding detection?” recently published in Conservation Letters by Richards et al. 2016 has critical shortcomings and conclusions based on biased and not very robust analyses. Here, we provide clarifications to some of the most critical points regarding the monitoring of land use changes in the Brazilian Amazon and related greenhouse emissions. Such clarifications are relevant to the readers of Conservation Letters and to a broader audience that rely on sound and robust science for a better management of environmental issues.
Therapeutic Differences in 24‐h Ambulatory Blood Pressures in Patients Switched Between Bioequivalent Nifedipine Osmotic Systems With Differing Delivery Technologies
Authors: Pollak PT , Herman RJ , Feldman RD
Published: February 2017

Comparing modified‐release formulations can be difficult using current bioequivalence criteria. Two 60‐mg‐once‐daily nifedipine formulations are deemed bioequivalent in Canada. This study examined the validity of the assumption that these interchangeable, but different, delivery technologies are therapeutically equivalent in maintaining systolic blood pressure (SBP) control throughout the entire dosing interval. We used 24‐h Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring to objectively examine whether formulation switches changed population SBP >2 mmHg (reflecting 6% increased stroke mortality) and in what proportion of patients SBP changed ≥6 mmHg (risking unnecessary therapeutic alterations). When 20 patients, previously receiving 60‐mg‐once‐daily Nifedipine‐GITS, were switched to Mylan‐Nifedipine‐XL, population‐mean ± SE 24‐h SBP increased 3 ± 1.1 mmHg (P = 0.0173) and 8‐h nocturnal SBP increased 4 ± 1.6 mmHg (P = 0.0098). Thus, interchange of nifedipine formulations can affect therapeutic consistency. These data support existing calls to improve criteria for establishing bioequivalence between formulations employing differing modified‐release technologies.
Acquisition of abstract concepts is influenced by emotional valence
Authors: Ponari Marta , Norbury Courtenay Frazier , Vigliocco Gabriella
Published: February 2017

There is considerable lack of evidence concerning the linguistic and cognitive skills underpinning abstract vocabulary acquisition. The present study considers the role of emotional valence in providing an embodied learning experience in which to anchor abstract meanings. First, analyses of adult ratings of age‐of‐acquisition, concreteness and valence demonstrate that abstract words acquired early tend to be emotionally valenced. Second, auditory Lexical Decision accuracies of children aged 6–7, 8–9, and 10–11 years (n = 20 per group) complement these analyses, demonstrating that emotional valence facilitates processing of abstract words, but not concrete. These findings provide the first evidence that young, school‐aged children are sensitive to emotional valence and that this facilitates acquisition of abstract words.
CAN GUEST WORKERS SOLVE JAPAN'S FISCAL PROBLEMS?
Authors: İmrohoroğlu Selahattin , Kitao Sagiri , Yamada Tomoaki
Published: February 2017

The labor force in Japan is projected to fall from 64 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2100, signaling unprecedented tax/transfer adjustments to achieve fiscal sustainability. In this paper, we develop a quantitative overlapping generations model to measure the impact of guest worker programs in Japan. Against a baseline general equilibrium transition in which the consumption tax adjusts to achieve fiscal sustainability, we compute alternative transitions with guest worker programs. Depending on the size and skill distribution of guest workers, these programs may mitigate Japan's fiscal imbalance problem with a relatively manageable increase in the consumption tax. (JEL E2, E6, H5, J11, J15)
25‐Hydroxy vitamin D suppresses hepatitis C virus replication and contributes to rapid virological response of treatment efficacy
Authors: Huang Jee‐Fu , Ko Yu‐Min , Huang Chung‐Feng , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Dai Chia‐Yen , Hsieh Meng‐Hsuan , Huang Ching‐I , Yang Hua‐Ling , Wang Shu‐Chi , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chen Shinn‐Chern , Yu Ming‐Lung , Chuang Wan‐Long
Published: February 2017

Aim

25‐Hydroxy vitamin D (Vit D) plays a role in treatment outcomes in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We aimed to clarify whether HCV replication is inhibited by Vit D in HCV replicon cells. Clinical implication was assessed for rapid virological response (RVR) and sustained virological response (SVR) among those patients receiving antiviral therapy.

Methods

Cell survival and viral loads were observed in Con1 (genotype 1b) and J6/JFH (genotype 2a) cells treated with different doses of Vit D. Three groups of patients with different treatment responses were recruited to assess their Vit D levels: group A, RVR−/SVR−; group B, RVR+/SVR−; and group C, RVR+/SVR+.

Results

The viral load of Con1 cells decreased by 69%, 80%, and 86% following treatment with 1 μM, 5 μM, and 10 μM Vit D, respectively (P < 0.0001). In J6/JFH cells, it decreased by 12%, 55%, and 80.5% following treatment with 1 μM, 5 μM, and 10 μM Vit D, respectively (P < 0.0001). There was a significant increase of Vit D between chronic hepatitis C groups, ranging from 4.4 ± 5.6 ng/mL in group A (n = 44), to 17.2 ± 11.6 ng/mL in group B (n = 44), and 32.5 ± 37.5 ng/mL of group C (n = 44) (P < 0.001). Advanced fibrosis (odds ratio = 0.13, 95% confidence interval = 0.04–0.41, P < 0.001) and Vit D deficiency (<10 ng/mL) (odds ratio = 0.11, 95% confidence interval = 0.03–0.43, P = 0.001) were predictive of SVR in the multivariate regression analysis.

Conclusion

Vitamin D decreases HCV replication and also contributes to early treatment viral kinetics.