bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spliceosome-Associated MicroRNAs Identified in Breast Cancer Cells Act on Nuclear Targets and Are Potential Indicators for Tumorigenicity
Authors: Mahlab-Aviv Shelly , Zohar Keren , Cohen Yael , Peretz Ayelet R. , Eliyahu Tsiona , Linial Michal , Sperling Ruth
Published: July 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) act as negative regulators of gene expression in the cytoplasm. Previous studies identified miRNAs associated with the spliceosome. Here we study three breast-derived cell-lines with increased tumorigenicity (from MCF-10A to MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and compared their miRNA sequences at the spliceosome fraction (SF). We report that the SF-miRNAs expression, identity, and pre-miRNA segmental composition vary across these cell-lines. The expression of the majority of the abundant SF-miRNAs (e.g. miR-100, miR-30a, and let-7 members) shows an opposite trend in view of the literature and breast cancer large cohorts. The results suggest that SF-miRNAs act in the nucleus on alternative targets than in the cytoplasm. One such miRNA is miR-7704 whose genomic position overlaps HAGLR, a cancer-related lncRNA. We found an inverse expression of miR-7704 and HAGLR in the tested cell lines. Moreover, inhibition of miR-7704 caused an increase in HAGLR expression. Furthermore, increasing miR-7704 levels attenuated the MDA-MB-231 cell-division rate. While miR-7704 acts as oncomiR in breast cancer patients, it has a tumor-suppressing function in SF, with HAGLR being its nuclear target. Manipulating miR-7704 levels is a potential lead for altering tumorigenicity. Altogether, we report on the potential of manipulating SF-miRNAs as an unexplored route for breast cancer therapeutics.
ATrypanosoma bruceiORFeome-based Gain-of-Function Library identifies genes that promote survival during melarsoprol treatment
Authors: Carter M , Gomez S , Gritz S , Larson S , Silva-Herzog E , Kim HS , Schulz D , Hovel-Miner GA
Published: July 2020

Trypanosoma bruceiis an early branching protozoan parasite that causes human and animal African Trypanosomiasis. Forward genetics approaches are powerful tools for uncovering novel aspects of Trypanosomatid biology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic approaches against trypanosomiasis. Here we have generated aT. bruceicloned ORFeome consisting of over 90% of the targeted 7,245 genes and used it to make an inducible Gain-of-Function parasite library broadly applicable to large-scale forward genetic screens. We conducted a proof of principle genetic screen to identify genes whose expression promotes survival in melarsoprol, a critical drug of last resort. The 57 genes identified as overrepresented in melarsoprol survivor populations included the rate-limiting enzyme for the biosynthesis of an established drug target (trypanothione), validating the tool. In addition, novel genes associated with gene expression, flagellum localization, and mitochondrion localization were identified and a subset of those genes increased melarsoprol resistance upon overexpression in culture. These findings offer new insights into Trypanosomatid basic biology, implications for drugs targets, and direct or indirect drug resistance mechanisms. This study generated aT. bruceiORFeome and Gain-of-Function parasite library, demonstrated the libraries’ usefulness in forward genetic screening, and identified novel aspects of melarsoprol resistance that will be the subject of future investigations. These powerful genetic tools can be used to broadly advance Trypanosomatid research.

IMPORTANCE

Trypanosomatid parasites threaten the health of over 1 billion people worldwide. Because their genomes are highly diverged from well-established eukaryotes, conservation is not always useful in assigning gene functions. However, it is precisely among the Trypanosomatid-specific genes that ideal therapeutic targets might be found. Forward genetics approaches are an effective way to identify novel gene functions. We used an ORFeome approach to clone a large percentage ofTrypanosoma bruceigenes and generate a Gain-of-Function parasite library. This library was used in a genetic screen to identify genes that promote resistance to the clinically significant, yet highly toxic drug, melarsoprol. Hits arising from the screen demonstrated the library’s usefulness in identifying known pathways and uncovered novel aspects of resistance mediated by proteins localized to the flagellum and mitochondrion. The powerful new genetic tools generated herein are expected to promote advances in Trypanosomatid biology and therapeutic development in the years to come.
Changes in Emergency Department attendances before and after COVID-19 lockdown implementation: a cross sectional study of one urban NHS Hospital Trust
Authors: Honeyford Kate , Coughlan Charles , Expert Paul , Burcea Gabriel , Maconochie Ian , Kinderlerer Anne , Cooke Graham S , Costelloe Ceire S
Published: July 2020

Background
Emergency Department (ED) attendances have fallen across the UK since the "lockdown" introduced on 23rd March 2020 to limit the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We hypothesised that reductions would vary by patient age and disease type. We examined pre- and in-lockdown ED attendances for two COVID-19 unrelated diagnoses; one likely to be affected by lockdown measures (gastroenteritis) and one likely to be unaffected (appendicitis).
Methods
Retrospective cross-sectional study conducted across two EDs in one London hospital Trust. We compared all adult and paediatric ED attendances, before (January 2020) and during lockdown (March/April 2020). Key patient demographics, method of arrival and discharge location were compared. We used SNOMED codes to define attendances for gastroenteritis and appendicitis.
Results
ED attendances fell from 1129 per day before lockdown to 584 in-lockdown; 51.7% of pre-lockdown rates. In-lockdown attendances were lowest for under-18s (16.0% of pre-lockdown). The proportion of patients admitted to hospital increased from 17.3% to 24.0% and the proportion admitted to intensive care increased four-fold. Attendances for gastroenteritis fell from 511 to 103; 20.2% of pre-lockdown rates. Attendances for appendicitis also decreased, from 144 to 41; 28.5% of pre-lockdown rates.
Conclusion
ED attendances fell substantially following lockdown implementation. The biggest reduction was for under-18s. We observed reductions in attendances for gastroenteritis and appendicitis. This may reflect lower rates of infectious disease transmission, though the fall in appendicitis-related attendances suggests that behavioural factors are also important. Larger studies are urgently needed to understand changing patterns of ED use and access to emergency care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 outbreak in Sichuan, China: epidemiology and impact of interventions
Authors: Liu Quan-Hui , Bento Ana I. , Yang Kexin , Zhang Hang , Yang Xiaohan , Merler Stefano , Vespignani Alessandro , Lv Jiancheng , Yu Hongjie , Zhang Wei , Zhou Tao , Ajelli Marco
Published: July 2020

In January 2020, a COVID-19 outbreak was detected in Sichuan Province of China. The aim of this work is to characterize the epidemiology of the Sichuan outbreak and estimate the impact of the performed interventions. We analyzed patient records for all laboratory-confirmed cases reported in the province for the period of January 21 to March 16, 2020. To estimate the basic and daily reproduction numbers, we used a Bayesian framework. In addition, we estimate the number of cases averted by the implemented control strategies. The outbreak resulted in 539 confirmed cases, lasted less than two months, and no further local transmission was detected after February 27. The median age of local cases was 8 years older than that of imported cases. Severity of symptoms increased with age. We estimated R0 at 2.4 (95% CI: 1.6–3.7). The epidemic was self-sustained for about 3 weeks before going below the epidemic threshold 3 days after the declaration of a public health emergency by Sichuan authorities. Our findings indicate that, were the control measures be adopted four weeks later, the epidemic could have lasted 49 days longer (95%CI: 31-68 days), causing 9,216 (95%CI: 1,317-25,545) more cases and possibly overwhelming Sichuan healthcare system.
Time series metagenomic sampling of the Thermopyles, Greece, geothermal springs reveals stable microbial communities dominated by novel sulfur-oxidizing chemoautotrophs
Authors: Meziti A. , Nikouli E. , Hatt J.K. , Konstantinidis K. , Kormas K. Ar.
Published: July 2020

Geothermal springs are barely affected by environmental conditions aboveground as they are continuously supplied with subsurface water with little variability in chemistry. Therefore, changes in their microbial community composition and function, especially over a long period, are expected to be limited but this assumption has not yet been rigorously tested. Toward closing this knowledge gap, we applied whole metagenome sequencing to 17 water samples collected between 2010 and 2016 (two to four samples per year) from the Thermopyles sulfur geothermal springs in central Greece. As revealed by 16S rRNA gene fragments recovered in the metagenomes,Epsilonproteobacteria-related operational taxonomic units (OTUs) dominated most samples, while grouping of samples based on OTU abundances exhibited no apparent seasonal pattern. Similarities between samples regarding functional gene content were high, especially in comparison to other surface water systems in Greece, with all samples sharing >70% similarity in functional pathways. These community-wide patterns were further confirmed by analysis of metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), which showed - in addition- that novel species and genera of the chemoautotrophicCampylobacteralesorder dominated the springs. These MAGs carried different pathways for thiosulfate and/or sulfide oxidation coupled to carbon fixation pathways. Overall, our study showed that even in the long term, functions of microbial communities in a moderately hot terrestrial spring remain stable, driving presumably the corresponding stability in community structure.
Dynamic allocation of carbon storage and nutrient-dependent exudation in a revised genome-scale model ofProchlorococcus
Authors: Ofaim Shany , Sulheim Snorre , Almaas Eivind , Sher Daniel , Segrè Daniel
Published: July 2020

Microbial life in the oceans impacts the entire marine ecosystem, global biogeochemistry and climate. The marine cyanobacteriumProchlorococcus, an abundant component of this ecosystem, releases a significant fraction of the carbon fixed through photosynthesis, but the amount, timing and molecular composition of released carbon are still poorly understood. These depend on several factors, including nutrient availability, light intensity and glycogen storage. Here we combine multiple computational approaches to provide insight into carbon storage and exudation inProchlorococcus. First, with the aid of a new algorithm for recursive filling of metabolic gaps (ReFill), and through substantial manual curation, we extended an existing genome-scale metabolic model ofProchlorococcusMED4. In this revised model (iSO595), we decoupled glycogen biosynthesis/degradation from growth, thus enabling dynamic allocation of carbon storage. In contrast to standard implementations of flux balance modeling, we made use of forced influx of carbon and light into the cell, to recapitulate overflow metabolism due to the decoupling of photosynthesis and carbon fixation from growth during nutrient limitation. By using random sampling in the ensuing flux space, we found that storage of glycogen or exudation of organic acids are favored when the growth is nitrogen limited, while exudation of amino acids becomes more likely when phosphate is the limiting resource. We next used COMETS to simulate day-night cycles and found that the model displays dynamic glycogen allocation and exudation of organic acids. The switch from photosynthesis and glycogen storage to glycogen depletion is associated with a redistribution of fluxes from the Entner-Doudoroff to the Pentose Phosphate pathway. Finally, we show that specific gene knockouts iniSO595 exhibit dynamic anomalies compatible with experimental observations, further demonstrating the value of this model as a tool to probe the metabolic dynamic ofProchlorococcus.
IMMUNOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS OF HHV-6 U12 AND U51 ENCODED PROTEINS INVOLVEMENT IN AUTOIMMUNE THYROIDITIS DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Sultanova Alina , Cistjakovs Maksims , Sokolovska Liba , Cunskis Egils , Murovska Modra
Published: July 2020

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a human pathogen with a wide cell tropism and many immunomodulating properties. HHV-6 has been linked to the development of multiple diseases, among them – autoimmune. Conflicting evidence implicates HHV-6 in autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). HHV-6 contains two genes (U12 and U51) that encode putative homologues of human G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) like CCR1, CCR3 and CCR5. It has been shown that proteins encoded by HHV-6 U12 and U51 genes can be expressed on the surface of epithelial and some peripheral blood mononuclear cells populations, which makes them a potential cause for evoking autoimmunity.

The aim of this study was to identify potentially immunogenic synthetic peptides derived from HHV-6 U12 and U51 amino acid sequences and to find evidences of the possible involvement of these proteins in AIT development. 62 AIT patients positive for HHV-6 infection were enrolled in this study. 30 different synthetic peptides designed from HHV-6 U12 and U51 proteins’ amino acid sequences, as well as, recombinant human CCR1, CCR3 and CCR5 proteins were used for suspension multiplex immunological assay (SMIA) to detect specific IgG, and IgM antibodies.

HHV-6 peptide specific IgG and IgM antibodies were found in patient’s samples, with higher signals for IgM antibodies, which is indicative of reactivation and active HHV-6 infection. As well recombinant CCR1 and CCR5 showed high signals on IgM antibodies which is indicating on the presence of potential auto-antibodies against human G protein-coupled receptors. No cross reactivity between HHV-6 peptide specific antibodies and human recombinant CCR1, CCR3 and CCR5 was found, however, the possibility of cross-reactive autoantibodies specific for structural epitopes cannot be excluded.
Variability of an early developmental cell population underlies stochastic laterality defects
Authors: Moreno-Ayala Roberto , Olivares-Chauvet Pedro , Schäfer Ronny , Junker Jan Philipp
Published: July 2020

Embryonic development seemingly proceeds with almost perfect precision. However, it is largely unknown how much underlying microscopic variability is compatible with normal development. Here, we quantified embryo-to-embryo variability in vertebrate development, by studying cell number variation in the zebrafish endoderm. We noticed that the size of a sub-population of the endoderm, the dorsal forerunner cells (which later form the left-right organizer), exhibits significantly more embryo-to-embryo variation than the rest of the endoderm. We found that, when incubated at elevated temperature, the frequency of left-right laterality defects is increased drastically in embryos with a low number of dorsal forerunner cells. Furthermore, we observed that these fluctuations have a large stochastic component among fish of the same genetic background. Hence, a stochastic variation in early development leads to a remarkably strong macroscopic phenotype. These fluctuations appear to be associated with maternal effects in the specification of the dorsal forerunner cells.
Siderophore-mediated zinc acquisition enhances enterobacterial colonization of the inflamed gut
Authors: Zhi Hui , Behnsen Judith , Aron Allegra , Subramanian Vivekanandan , Liu Janet Z. , Gerner Romana R. , Petras Daniel , Green Keith D. , Price Sarah L. , Camacho Jose , Hillman Hannah , Tjokrosurjo Joshua , Montaldo Nicola P. , Hoover Evelyn , Treacy-Abarca Sean , Gilston Benjamin A. , Skaar Eric P. , Chazin Walter J. , Garneau-Tsodikova Sylvie , Lawrenz Matthew B. , Perry Robert D. , Nuccio Sean-Paul , Dorrestein Pieter C. , Raffatellu Manuela
Published: July 2020

Zinc is an essential cofactor for bacterial metabolism, and manyEnterobacteriaceaeexpress the zinc transporters ZnuABC and ZupT to acquire this metal in the host. Unexpectedly, the probiotic bacteriumEscherichia coliNissle 1917 exhibited appreciable growth in zinc-limited media even when these transporters were deleted. By utilizingin vitroandin vivostudies, as well as native spray metal infusion mass spectrometry and ion identity molecular networking, we discovered that Nissle utilizes yersiniabactin as a zincophore. Indeed, yersiniabactin enables Nissle to scavenge zinc in zinc-limited media, to resist calprotectin-mediated zinc sequestration, and to thrive in the inflamed gut. Moreover, we discovered that yersiniabactin’s affinity for iron or zinc changes in a pH-dependent manner, with higher affinity for zinc as the pH increased. Altogether, we demonstrate that siderophore metal affinity can be influenced by the local environment and reveal a mechanism of zinc acquisition available to many commensal and pathogenicEnterobacteriaceae.
Demographic history impacts stratification in polygenic scores
Authors: Zaidi Arslan A. , Mathieson Iain
Published: July 2020

Large genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified many loci exhibiting small but statistically significant associations with complex traits and disease risk. However, control of population stratification continues to be a limiting factor, particularly when calculating polygenic scores where subtle biases can cumulatively lead to large errors. We simulated GWAS under realistic models of demographic history to study the effect of residual stratification in large GWAS. We show that when population structure is recent, it cannot be fully corrected using principal components based on common variants—the standard approach—because common variants are uninformative about recent demographic history. Consequently, polygenic scores calculated from such GWAS results are biased in that they recapitulate non-genetic environmental structure. Principal components calculated from rare variants or identity-by-descent segments largely correct for this structure if environmental effects are smooth. However, even these corrections are not effective for local or batch effects. While sibling-based association tests are immune to stratification, the hybrid approach of ascertaining variants in a standard GWAS and then re-estimating effect sizes in siblings reduces but does not eliminate bias. Finally, we show that rare variant burden tests are relatively robust to stratification. Our results demonstrate that the effect of population stratification on GWAS and polygenic scores depends not only on the frequencies of tested variants and the distribution of environmental effects but also on the demographic history of the population.
Multiple Capsid Protein Binding Sites Mediate Selective Packaging of the Alphavirus Genomic RNA
Authors: Brown Rebecca S. , Anastasakis Dimitrios G. , Hafner Markus , Kielian Margaret
Published: July 2020

The alphavirus capsid protein (Cp) selectively packages genomic RNA (gRNA) into the viral nucleocapsid to produce infectious virus. Using photoactivatable ribonucleoside crosslinking and an innovative biotinylated Cp retrieval method, we comprehensively defined binding sites for Semliki Forest virus (SFV) Cp on the gRNA. While data in infected cells demonstrated Cp binding to the proposed genome packaging signal (PS), mutagenesis experiments showed that PS was not required for production of infectious SFV or Chikungunya virus. Instead, we identified multiple novel Cp binding sites that were enriched on gRNA-specific regions and promoted infectious SFV production and gRNA packaging. Comparisons of binding sites in cytoplasmic vs. viral nucleocapsids demonstrated that budding caused discrete changes in Cp-gRNA interactions. Notably, Cp’s top binding site was maintained throughout virus assembly, and specifically bound and assembled with Cp into core-like particles in vitro. Together our data suggest a new model for selective alphavirus genome recognition and assembly.
SARS-CoV-2 infection induces a pro-inflammatory cytokine response through cGAS-STING and NF-κB
Authors: Neufeldt Christopher J. , Cerikan Berati , Cortese Mirko , Frankish Jamie , Lee Ji-Young , Plociennikowska Agnieszka , Heigwer Florian , Joecks Sebastian , Burkart Sandy S. , Zander David Y. , Gendarme Mathieu , El Debs Bachir , Halama Niels , Merle Uta , Boutros Michael , Binder Marco , Bartenschlager Ralf
Published: July 2020

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel virus that has rapidly spread, causing a global pandemic. In the majority of infected patients, SARS-CoV-2 leads to mild disease; however, in a significant proportion of infections, individuals develop severe symptoms that can lead to permanent lung damage or death. These severe cases are often associated with high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and low antiviral responses which can lead to systemic complications. We have evaluated transcriptional and cytokine secretion profiles from infected cell cultures and detected a distinct upregulation of inflammatory cytokines that parallels samples taken from infected patients. Building on these observations, we found a specific activation of NF-κB and a block of IRF3 nuclear translocation in SARS-CoV-2 infected cells. This NF-κB response is mediated by cGAS-STING activation and could be attenuated through STING targeting drugs. Our results show that SARS-CoV-2 curates a cGAS-STING mediated NF-κB driven inflammatory immune response in epithelial cells that likely contributes to inflammatory responses seen in patients and might be a target to suppress severe disease symptoms.
Biochemical characterization of recombinant UDP-sugar pyrophosphorylase and galactinol synthase fromBrachypodium distachyon
Authors: Minen Romina I. , Martínez María P. , Iglesias Alberto A. , Figueroa Carlos M.
Published: July 2020

Raffinose (Raf) protects plant cells during seed desiccation and under different abiotic stress conditions. The biosynthesis of Raf starts with the production of UDP-galactose by UDP-sugar pyrophosphorylase (USPPase) and continues with the synthesis of galactinol by galactinol synthase (GolSase). Galactinol is then used by Raf synthase to produce Raf. In this work, we report the biochemical characterization of USPPase (BdiUSPPase) and GolSase 1 (BdiGolSase1) fromBrachypodium distachyon. The catalytic efficiency ofBdiUSPPase was similar with galactose 1-phosphate and glucose 1-phosphate, but 5-to 17-fold lower with other sugar 1-phosphates. The catalytic efficiency ofBdiGolSase1 with UDP-galactose was three orders of magnitude higher than with UDP-glucose. A structural model ofBdiGolSase1 allowed us to determine the residues putatively involved in the binding of substrates. Among these, we found that Cys261lies within the putative catalytic pocket.BdiGolSase1 was inactivated by oxidation with diamide and H2O2. The activity of the diamide-oxidized enzyme was recovered by reduction with dithiothreitol orE. colithioredoxin, suggesting thatBdiGolSase1 is redox-regulated.
A new family of lanthanide coordination polymers based on 3,3′-[(5-carboxylato-1,3-phenylene)bis(oxy)]dibenzoate: synthesis, crystal structures and magnetic and luminescence properties
Authors: Yang Dong-Dong , Lu Li-Ping , Zhu Miao-Li
Published: July 2020

Six two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymers (CPs), namely, poly[{μ5-3,3-[(5-carboxylato-1,3-phenylene)bis(oxy)]dibenzoato-κ6
O
1:O
1′:O
3,O
3′:O
5:O
5′}bis(N,N-dimethylformamide-κO)lanthanide(III)], [Ln(C21H11O8)(C3H7NO)2]
n
, with lanthanide/Ln = cerium/Ce for CP1, praseodymium/Pr for CP2, neodymium/Nd for CP3, samarium/Sm for CP4, europium/Eu for CP5 and gadolinium/Gd for CP6, have been prepared by solvothermal methods using the ligand 3,3′-[(5-carboxy-1,3-phenylene)bis(oxy)]dibenzoic acid (H3cpboda) in the presence of Ln(NO3)3. The complexes were characterized by single-crystal X-ray and powder diffraction, IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). All the structures of this family of lanthanide CPs are isomorphous with the triclinic space group P\overline{1} and reveal that they have the same 2D network based on binuclear LnIII units, which are further extended via interlayer C—H...π interactions into a three-dimensional supramolecular structure. The carboxylate groups of the cpboda3− ligands link adjacent LnIII ions and form binuclear [Ln2(RCOO)4] secondary building units (SBUs), in which each binuclear LnIII SBU contains four carboxylate groups from different cpboda3− ligands. Moreover, with the increase of the rare-earth Ln atomic radius, the dihedral angles between the aromatic rings gradually increase. Magnetically, CP6 shows weak antiferromagnetic coupling between the GdIII ions. The solid-state luminescence properties of CP2, CP5 and CP6 were examined at ambient temperature and CP5 exhibits characteristic red emission bands derived from the Eu3+ ion (CIE 0.53, 0.31), with luminescence quantum yields of 22%. Therefore, CP5 should be regarded as a potential optical material.
An optimization-based deep belief network for the detection of phishing e-mails
Authors: M. Arshey , K. S. Angel Viji
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Phishing is a serious cybersecurity problem, which is widely available through multimedia, such as e-mail and Short Messaging Service (SMS) to collect the personal information of the individual. However, the rapid growth of the unsolicited and unwanted information needs to be addressed, raising the necessity of the technology to develop any effective anti-phishing methods.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary intention of this research is to design and develop an approach for preventing phishing by proposing an optimization algorithm. The proposed approach involves four steps, namely preprocessing, feature extraction, feature selection and classification, for dealing with phishing e-mails. Initially, the input data set is subjected to the preprocessing, which removes stop words and stemming in the data and the preprocessed output is given to the feature extraction process. By extracting keyword frequency from the preprocessed, the important words are selected as the features. Then, the feature selection process is carried out using the Bhattacharya distance such that only the significant features that can aid the classification are selected. Using the selected features, the classification is done using the deep belief network (DBN) that is trained using the proposed fractional-earthworm optimization algorithm (EWA). The proposed fractional-EWA is designed by the integration of EWA and fractional calculus to determine the weights in the DBN optimally.

Findings

The accuracy of the methods, naive Bayes (NB), DBN, neural network (NN), EWA-DBN and fractional EWA-DBN is 0.5333, 0.5455, 0.5556, 0.5714 and 0.8571, respectively. The sensitivity of the methods, NB, DBN, NN, EWA-DBN and fractional EWA-DBN is 0.4558, 0.5631, 0.7035, 0.7045 and 0.8182, respectively. Likewise, the specificity of the methods, NB, DBN, NN, EWA-DBN and fractional EWA-DBN is 0.5052, 0.5631, 0.7028, 0.7040 and 0.8800, respectively. It is clear from the comparative table that the proposed method acquired the maximal accuracy, sensitivity and specificity compared with the existing methods.

Originality/value

The e-mail phishing detection is performed in this paper using the optimization-based deep learning networks. The e-mails include a number of unwanted messages that are to be detected in order to avoid the storage issues. The importance of the method is that the inclusion of the historical data in the detection process enhances the accuracy of detection.
A variational approach for novel solitary solutions of FitzHugh–Nagumo equation arising in the nonlinear reaction–diffusion equation
Authors: Khan Yasir
Published: July 2020

Purpose

In the nonlinear model of reaction–diffusion, the Fitzhugh–Nagumo equation plays a very significant role. This paper aims to generate innovative solitary solutions of the Fitzhugh–Nagumo equation through the use of variational formulation.

Design/methodology/approach

The partial differential equation of Fitzhugh–Nagumo is modified by the appropriate wave transforms into a dimensionless nonlinear ordinary differential equation, which is solved by a semi-inverse variational method.

Findings

This paper uses a variational approach to the Fitzhugh–Nagumo equation developing new solitary solutions. The condition for the continuation of new solitary solutions has been met. In addition, this paper sets out the Fitzhugh–Nagumo equation fractal model and its variational principle. The findings of the solitary solutions have shown that the suggested method is very reliable and efficient. The suggested algorithm is very effective and is almost ideal for use in such problems.

Originality/value

The Fitzhugh–Nagumo equation is an important nonlinear equation for reaction–diffusion and is typically used for modeling nerve impulses transmission. The Fitzhugh–Nagumo equation is reduced to the real Newell–Whitehead equation if β = −1. This study provides researchers with an extremely useful source of information in this area.
Robust optimization model for sustainable supply chain for production and distribution of polyethylene pipe
Authors: Valizadeh Jaber , Sadeh Ehsan , Amini Sabegh Zainolabedin , Hafezalkotob Ashkan
Published: July 2020

Purpose

In this study, the authors consider the key decisions in the design of the green closed-loop supply chain (CSLC) network. These decisions include considering the optimal location of suppliers, production facilities, distribution, customers, recycling centers and disposal of non-recyclable goods. In the proposed model, the level of technology used in recycling and production centers is taken into account. Moreover, in this paper is the environmental impacts of production and distribution of products based on the eco-indicator 99 are considered.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the author consider the key decisions in the design of the green CLSC network. These decisions include considering the optimal location of suppliers, production facilities, distribution, customers, recycling centers and disposal of non-recyclable goods. In the proposed model, the level of technology used in recycling and production centers is taken into account. Moreover, the environmental impacts of production and distribution of products based on the eco-indicator 99 are considered.

Findings

The results indicate that the results obtained from the colonial competition algorithm have higher quality than the genetic algorithm. This quality of results includes relative percentage deviation and computational time of the algorithm and it is shown that the computational time of the colonial competition algorithm is significantly lower than the computational time of the genetic algorithm. Furthermore, the limit test and sensitivity analysis results show that the proposed model has sufficient accuracy.

Originality/value

Solid modeling of the green supply chain of the closed loop using the solid optimized method by Bertsimas and Sim. Development of models that considered environmental impacts to the closed loop supply chain. Considering the impact of the technology type in the manufacture of products and the recycling of waste that will reduce emissions of environmental pollutants. Another innovation of the model is the multi-cycle modeling of the closed loop of supply chain by considering the uncertainty and the fixed and variable cost of transport.
It's about time
Authors: Wofford Larry
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Time is a critical element of commercial real estate (CRE) and has received only cursory attention. This paper identifies and describes the interactions between time, change and CRE. It leads to important implications and possible changes in professional practice, teaching and research.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design involves identifying and synthesising research in a disparate discipline into a coherent portrayal of time, change and CRE. Using the CRE environment as a foundation, a more comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach is developed to highlight the temporal issues within CRE.

Findings

The extreme levels of complexity, dynamism and uncertainty characterising current CRE environments affect the interaction of time, change and CRE. In response, CRE has become increasingly specialised in property types and time segments. The paper identifies four issues for CRE: the role of CRE as an integrator of different layers of civilisation with different clock speeds, the need for a temporal mindset recognising finite and infinite games, the need for temporal ambidexterity and the use of strategic foresight and scenarios. The very definition of CRE as an industry is questioned.

Research limitations/implications

Need for essential empirical work as well as additional work for implications.

Practical implications

CRE faces disruption from many sources, and this paper considers how to incorporate time and change into analysis of the CRE market environment. It identifies specific ways CRE can understand and avoid disruption. Further, areas of teaching and research are highlighted.

Social implications

Real estate assets are substantial, long-lived assets with important consequences for society. This paper advances the analysis of such assets.

Originality/value

Areas of concentration in CRE and academia needing attention are identified. The areas have generally not been considered prior to this paper.
Competitive advantage from marketing the SDGs: a luxury perspective
Authors: Hepner Judith , Chandon Jean-Louis , Bakardzhieva Damyana
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Shall luxury firms promote their sustainable development goals (SDGs)? What are the risks and the competitive advantages? Some answers from sustainability-oriented luxury buyers are provided.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative analysis from an online survey of 315 luxury buyers in 28 countries.

Findings

Sustainability-oriented luxury buyers want branding strategies aligned with the SDGs and rank SDGs in order of importance for the luxury industry. However, they are unable to rank consistently most brands based on their sustainability efforts. The Stella McCartney brand is a clear exception to the general findings: sustainability-oriented luxury buyers rank Stella the most sustainable luxury brand by a vast margin, show willingness to purchase more from this brand, recommend it and are ready to pay a premium.

Research limitations/implications

The paper uses partial ranking of 20 luxury brands because in pretests, luxury buyers found it difficult to provide a complete ranking of the sustainability efforts of all the brands. Further research in more cultural or geographical contexts is needed.

Originality/value

The research empirically provides an example of a successful marketing strategy leveraging the SDGs to meet sustainability-oriented luxury buyers with targeted actions and messaging to gain competitive advantage.
European bird declines: Do we need to rethink approaches to the management of abundant generalist predators?
Authors: McMahon Barry J. , Doyle Susan , Gray Aimée , Kelly Seán B. A. , Redpath Steve M.
Published: July 2020

Bird species are declining across Europe. Current European policy, that is, the Birds and Habitats Directives, focus on habitat management as a way of halting the declines. This paper explores the role of predation in causing bird population declines and asks if we need to reconsider our approach to the management of generalist predators.

We analysed bird population trends and distribution changes across Europe, Britain and Ireland, reflecting an increasing gradient of generalist predator abundance (principally red fox Vulpes vulpes and species of the family Corvidae). We tested if ground‐nesting bird species, considered more vulnerable to predation, were in greater decline compared to other nesting strategies. We also compared Annex I designated species to non‐designated species as a proxy for habitat management.

We found that across Europe, 74% of ground‐nesting bird species were in decline, compared to 41% of other species. This was especially evident in Britain, where the pattern was 66% compared to 31%, and in Ireland, 71% compared to 20%. Ground‐nesting species were significantly more likely to be declining than other species.

These patterns are consistent with the idea that population declines are at least partially related to the increased abundance of generalist predators. In Britain, ground‐nesting species were less likely to be in decline if covered by Annex I designation. However, in Europe and Ireland, Annex I status did not mitigate the effect of nesting strategy.

Policy implications. Current legislation is clearly insufficient to prevent widespread declines in ground‐nesting birds, and this is the case across Europe, in Britain and Ireland. Ignoring the role of generalist predators in modern landscapes may lead to further declines and losses. We urgently need large‐scale experiments to establish causality in the impact of generalist predators on ground‐nesting birds in different landscapes. If we value our ground‐nesting bird species, consideration needs to be given to the control of widespread generalist predators, at least until landscapes are restored.
The secondary metabolite regulator, BbSmr1, is a central regulator of conidiation via the BrlA‐AbaA‐WetA pathway in Beauveria bassiana
Authors: Chen Jin‐Feng , Liu Yu , Tang Gui‐Rong , Jin Dan , Chen Xi , Pei Yan , Fan Yan‐Hua
Published: July 2020

The filamentous fungus Beauveria bassiana, an insect fungal pathogen, is widely used for pest biocontrol. Aerial conidia are infectious propagules, and their yield and viability greatly affect the field application of this fungus; however, little is known about the molecular regulatory mechanism of the triggered conidiation. In the present study, we find that the secondary metabolite regulator BbSmr1 is involved in the regulation of asexual conidiation development and stress response in B. bassiana. A deficiency in Bbsmr1 results in a prominent fluffy‐like phenotype on solid medium, decreased conidial yield, accelerated conidial germination, as well as increased tolerance to H2O2 stress and cell wall inhibitors. The deletion of Bbsmr1 also leads to thickened conidial cell walls and changed cell epitopes. Overexpressing either BbbrlA or BbabaA in the ∆Bbsmr1 strain can rescue the phenotypes of conidial development and stress response. BbSmr1 activates BbbrlA transcription by directly binding to the A4GA3 sequence of the BbbrlA promoter. BbBrlA in turn binds to the promoter of Bbsmr1 and negatively regulates the expression of Bbsmr1. These results indicate that BbSmr1 positively regulates conidial development in B. bassiana by activating the central development pathway BrlA‐AbaA‐WetA and provides insights into the developmental regulatory mechanism of entomopathogenic fungi.
Testing Antemortem Blood for Ethanol Concentration from a Blood Kit in a Refrigerator Fire
Authors: Kosecki Patrick Allan , Canonico Erika , Brooke Phillip
Published: July 2020

The stability of ethanol in antemortem blood stored under various conditions has been widely studied. Antemortem blood samples stored at refrigerated temperature, at room temperature, and at elevated temperatures tend to decrease in ethanol concentration with storage. It appears that the stability of ethanol in blood exposed to temperatures greater than 38°C has not been evaluated. The case presented here involves comparison of breath test results with subsequent analysis of blood drawn at the time of breath testing. However, the blood tubes were in a refrigerator fire followed by refrigerated storage for 5 months prior to analysis by headspace gas chromatography. The subject’s breath was tested twice using an Intoxilyzer 8000. The subject’s blood was tested in duplicate using an Agilent headspace gas chromatograph. The measured breath ethanol concentration was 0.103 g/210 L and 0.092 g/210 L. The measured blood ethanol concentration was 0.0932 g/dL for both samples analyzed. Although the mean blood test result was slightly lower than the mean breath test result, the mean breath test result was within the estimated uncertainty of the mean blood test result. Even under the extreme conditions of the blood kit being in a refrigerator fire, the measured blood ethanol content agreed well with the paired breath ethanol test.
The Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI): Treatment Scales and Interpersonal Characteristics in a Sample of Men Charged with or Convicted of a Sexual Offense*
Authors: Parker Alden J. , Mulay Abby L. , Gottfried Emily D.
Published: July 2020

An individual's interpersonal features are pertinent to treatment within clinical populations. The Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) contains two scales that assess the interpersonal features of warmth (WRM) and dominance (DOM), as well as two additional measures to assess to treatment prediction, process, and rejection (RXR; TPI). The current study examined associations between these PAI scales in a sample of 92 men who underwent comprehensive evaluations of sexual behavior after being charged with or convicted of a sexual offense. Analyses indicated that RXR was positively associated with WRM and DOM, TPI was negatively associated with WRM, and the two interpersonal scales of WRM and DOM were positively correlated with each other. A significant inverse relationship was found between the two treatment scales RXR and TPI indicating that motivation for treatment may have a limited relationship with the treatment process. WRM significantly predicted scores on the TPI, and both WRM and DOM predicted individual scores on RXR. Higher scores on positive impression management (PIM) were predictive of lower TPI and higher RXR, as individuals with higher stakes cases may score higher on PIM and underreport obstacles within treatment or be unwilling to accept the need for treatment. Overall, findings suggest that interpersonal characteristics identified by the PAI scales may be advantageous in approaching treatment within this population.
Trajectory modeling revealed a southwest‐northeast migration corridor for fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) emerging from the North China Plain
Authors: Wu Qiu‐Lin , Jiang Yu‐Ying , Liu Jie , Hu Gao , Wu Kong‐Ming
Published: July 2020

The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, an invasive insect pest native to the Americas, has established populations throughout eastern China. The North China Plain—a key corn‐producing area in East China with a unique topography—was invaded by fall armyworm in 2019 and is seriously threatened by this migratory pest. However, the spatiotemporal extent of the migratory movements of fall armyworm from the North China Plain remains poorly understood. Using an air transport‐based trajectory modeling approach that incorporates flight behavior, we simulated the potential nocturnal migration trajectories of fall armyworm from the North China Plain based on historical meteorological data from June to October of 2015–2019, and examined the night‐time atmospheric conditions associated with their possible flights. The emigration patterns showed monthly variation in the main landing area and common migration direction. The displacement of newly emerged moths from the North China Plain was concentrated in the Northeast China Plain (including Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces) before late summer, after which they were most likely to undertake return flights to the south (especially into Hubei, Anhui and Hunan provinces). This southwest‐northeast aerial migration corridor follows the topography of East China and is affected by the East Asian monsoon. These topographic‐atmospheric conditions have resulted in the North China Plain becoming a key stopover for fall armyworm populations engaging in multigenerational long‐distance migration across East China. These findings contribute to our knowledge of fall armyworm migration and will aid in the implementation of management and control strategies against this highly migratory agricultural pest.
Revision of the endemic Australian robber fly genus Daptolestes Hull, 1962 (Diptera: Asilidae) and description of Humorolethalis gen. nov.
Authors: Robinson Isabella J , Li Xuankun , Yeates David K
Published: July 2020

Daptolestes Hull, 1962 is a small genus of distinctive, ornate robber flies (Asilidae) endemic to Australia, currently placed in the subfamily Brachyrhopalinae, containing three described species, D. limbipennis, D. nicholsoni and D. sergius. Adults of Daptolestes species (except D. sergius) have patterned wings, brown and yellow integumental colour and a waisted abdomen and could be mistaken for vespid wasps when foraging for insect prey on flowers. Here, we present a phylogeny based on a morphological survey of adult specimens. Based on the phylogenetic results, we provide a description and revised diagnosis for Daptolestes and describe four new species: D. leei Robinson & Yeates, sp. nov. D. bronteflavus Robinson & Yeates, sp. nov. D. feminategus Robinson & Yeates, sp. nov. and D. illusiolautus Robinson & Yeates, sp. nov. We also erect a new genus, Humorolethalis Robinson, Li & Yeates, gen. nov. to accommodate Dasypogon sergius Walker [=Daptolestes sergius (Walker)]. For all species of both genera, we illustrate external features of the adults and male and female terminalia. Key to all Daptolestes species.
The chimera‐type galectin‐3 is a positive modulator of trophoblast functions with dysregulated expression in gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Freitag Nancy , Tirado‐González Irene , Barrientos Gabriela , Cohen Marie , Daher Silvia , Goldman‐Wohl Debra , Mincheva‐Nilsson Lucia , John Constance M. , Jeschke Udo , Blois Sandra M.
Published: July 2020

Problem

From conception, a delicate regulation of galectins, a family of carbohydrate‐binding proteins, is established to ensure maternal immune tolerance in pregnancy. Though galectin‐3 (gal‐3), the only chimera‐type galectin, is abundantly expressed at the feto‐maternal interface; the physiological role of this lectin during pregnancy remains to be fully elucidated and requires further investigation.

Method of study

In this study, we analyzed serum gal‐3 levels during the course of healthy gestation. Trophoblast functions were evaluated upon gal‐3 exogenous stimulation using trophoblastic cell lines (e.g. , HIPEC65, SGHPL‐4, and BeWo cells). Finally, we investigated variations in peripheral gal‐3 levels associated with the development of spontaneous abortion and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Results

Gal‐3 circulating levels increased as normal pregnancy progressed. In vitro experiments showed that exogenous gal‐3 positively regulated trophoblast functions inducing invasion, tube formation, and fusion. Compared with normal pregnant women, circulating gal‐3 levels were significantly decreased in patients who developed GDM.

Conclusion

Our results reveal a physiological role for gal‐3 during pregnancy, promoting proper trophoblast functions associated with healthy gestation. GDM is associated with a failure to increase circulating gal‐3 levels late in gestation. Thus, dysregulation of gal‐3 may indicate a contribution of the chimera‐type lectin to this adverse pregnancy outcome.