bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of microbial competition, commensalism and cooperation and its implications for coculture and microbiome engineering
Authors: Xu Peng
Published: March 2020

Microbial consortium is a complex adaptive system with higher order dynamic characteristics that are not present by individual members. To accurately predict the social interactions, we formulate a set of unstructured kinetic models to quantitatively capture the dynamic interactions of multiple microbial species. By introducing an interaction coefficient, we analytically derived the steady state solutions for the interacting species and the substrate profile in the chemostat. We analyzed the stability of the possible co-existing states defined by competition, parasitism, amensalism, commensalism and cooperation. Our model predicts that only parasitism, commensalism and cooperation could lead to stable co-existing state. We also determined the optimal social interaction criteria of microbial coculture with sequential metabolic reactions compartmentalized into two distinct species. Coupled with Luedeking–Piret and Michaelis-Menten equations, accumulation of metabolic intermediates in one species and formation of end-product in another species could be derived and assessed. We discovered that parasitism consortia disfavor the bioconversion of intermediate to final product; and commensalism consortia could efficiently convert metabolic intermediates to final product and maintain metabolic homeostasis with a broad range of operational conditions (i.e., dilution rates); whereas cooperative consortia leads to highly nonlinear pattern of precursor accumulation and end-product formation. The underlying dynamics and emergent properties of microbial consortia may provide critical knowledge for us to engineer efficient bioconversion process, deliver effective gut therapeutics as well as elucidate probiotic-pathogen interactions in general.
Multimodal phenotypic axes of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Markello Ross D. , Shafiei Golia , Tremblay Christina , Postuma Ronald B. , Dagher Alain , Miŝić Bratislav
Published: March 2020

Individuals with Parkinson’s disease present with a complex clinical phenotype, encompassing sleep, motor, cognitive, and affective disturbances. However, characterizations of PD are typically made for the “average” patient, ignoring patient heterogeneity and obscuring important individual differences. Modern large-scale data sharing efforts provide a unique opportunity to precisely investigate individual patient characteristics, but there exists no analytic framework for comprehensively integrating data modalities. Here we apply an unsupervised learning method—similarity network fusion—to objectively integrate MRI morphometry, dopamine active transporter binding, protein assays, and clinical measurements from n = 186 individuals with de novo Parkinson’s disease from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative. We show that multimodal fusion captures inter-dependencies among data modalities that would otherwise be overlooked by field standard techniques like data concatenation. We then examine how patient subgroups derived from fused data map onto clinical phenotypes, and how neuroimaging data is critical to this delineation. Finally, we identify a compact set of phenotypic axes that span the patient population, demonstrating that this continuous, low-dimensional projection of individual patients presents a more parsimonious representation of heterogeneity in the sample compared to discrete biotypes. Altogether, these findings showcase the potential of similarity network fusion for combining multimodal data in heterogeneous patient populations.
A method for achieving complete microbial genomes and improving bins from metagenomics data
Authors: Lui Lauren M. , Nielsen Torben N. , Arkin Adam P.
Published: March 2020

Metagenomics facilitates the study of the genetic information from uncultured microbes and complex microbial communities. Assembling complete microbial genomes (i.e., circular with no misassemblies) from metagenomics data is difficult because most samples have high organismal complexity and strain diversity. Less than 100 circularized bacterial and archaeal genomes have been assembled from metagenomics data despite the thousands of datasets that are available. Circularized genomes are important for (1) building a reference collection as scaffolds for future assemblies, (2) providing complete gene content of a genome, (3) confirming little or no contamination of a genome, (4) studying the genomic context and synteny of genes, and (5) linking protein coding genes to ribosomal RNA genes to aid metabolic inference in 16S rRNA gene sequencing studies. We developed a method to achieve circularized genomes using iterative assembly, binning, and read mapping. In addition, this method exposes potential misassemblies from k-mer based assemblies. We chose species of the Candidate Phyla Radiation (CPR) to focus our initial efforts because they have small genomes and are only known to have one ribosomal RNA operon. We present 34 circular CPR genomes, one circular Margulisbacteria genome, and two circular megaphage genomes from 19 public and published datasets. We demonstrate findings that would likely be difficult without circularizing genomes, including that ribosomal genes are likely not operonic in the majority of CPR, and that some CPR harbor diverged forms of RNase P RNA. Code and a tutorial for this method is available athttps://github.com/lmlui/Jorg.
Nine Novel Cluster E Mycobacteriophages Isolated from Soil
Authors: Gaballa Joseph M. , Freise Amanda , Parker Jordan Moberg
Published: March 2020

Novel mycobacteriophages FireRed, MISSy, MPhalcon, Murica, Sassay, Terminus, Willez, YassJohnny, and Youngblood were isolated from soil samples on the hostMycobacterium smegmatis. Transmission electron microscopy revealed phage structures suggestive of theSiphoviridaefamily of phages. Phage genomes were sequenced and annotated, revealing that they belong to actinobacteriophage Cluster E. Here, we describe the features of these phage genomes and discuss their similarity to previously discovered cluster E phages.
Synthesis and crystallographic studies of two new 1,3,5-triazines
Authors: Patricio-Rangel Emmanuel Blas , Tlahuextl Margarita , Tlahuext Hugo , Tapia-Benavides Antonio Rafael
Published: March 2020

The synthesis and characterization of two new 1,3,5-triazines containing 2-(aminomethyl)-1H-benzimidazole hydrochloride as a substituent are reported, namely, 2-{[(4,6-dichloro-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]methyl}-1H-benzimidazol-3-ium chloride, C11H9Cl2N6
+·Cl− (1), and bis(2,2′-{[(6-chloro-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diyl)bis(azanediyl)]bis(methylene)}bis(1H-benzimidazol-3-ium)) tetrachloride heptahydrate, 2C19H18ClN9
2+·4Cl−·7H2O (2). Both salts were characterized using single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and IR spectroscopy. Moreover, the NMR (1H and 13C) spectra of 1 were obtained. Salts 1 and 2 have triclinic symmetry (space group P-1) and their supramolecular structures are stabilized by hydrogen bonding and offset π–π interactions. In hydrated salt 2, the noncovalent interactions yield pseudo-nanotubes filled with chloride anions and water molecules, which were modelled in the refinement with substitutional and positional disorder.
A short review on analytical methods for a fully fourth-order nonlinear integral boundary value problem with fractal derivatives
Authors: He Ji-Huan
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to review some effective methods for fully fourth-order nonlinear integral boundary value problems with fractal derivatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Boundary value problems arise everywhere in engineering, hence two-scale thermodynamics and fractal calculus have been introduced. Some analytical methods are reviewed, mainly including the variational iteration method, the Ritz method, the homotopy perturbation method, the variational principle and the Taylor series method. An example is given to show the simple solution process and the high accuracy of the solution.

Findings

An elemental and heuristic explanation of fractal calculus is given, and the main solution process and merits of each reviewed method are elucidated. The fractal boundary value problem in a fractal space can be approximately converted into a classical one by the two-scale transform.

Originality/value

This paper can be served as a paradigm for various practical applications.
An integrated OEE framework for structured productivity improvement in a semiconductor manufacturing facility
Authors: Cheah Chew Keat , Prakash Joshua , Ong Kok Seng
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a practical integrated overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) framework that encompasses the core characteristics of OEE.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviewed the backgrounds of OEE and improvement frameworks and explored the limitations. An integrated OEE framework was developed by synergizing the strengths of OEE and improvement frameworks to complement the shortcomings. This new framework underlies the OEE concepts and provides structural improvement steps. It was applied to systematically assist and guide OEE practitioners in a case study.

Findings

The review of OEE literature found that there is a lack of improvement frameworks with systematic steps specifically developed for OEE implementation. Conversely, a review on improvement frameworks of different methodologies revealed that they do not fully capitalize on the use of performance measures as benchmarks and improvement drivers. An integrated framework that incorporated the advantages of both OEE and conventional improvement frameworks was developed and validated through a case study over a period of 38 weeks. The OEE performance before the improvements was low (73.4 percent) due to high availability losses (76.5 percent). Both OEE and availability achieved the target of 76.5 percent and 80 percent, respectively, after using the framework for improvements.

Research limitations/implications

The reviewed papers represent a sample of papers present in the literature and were selected based on relevancy. A greater number of papers incorporated into the literature review would certainly bring out a more comprehensive study.

Practical implications

The proposed integrated OEE framework provides OEE practitioners with systematic directions and steps combined with benchmarking and loss prioritization features for effective improvement efforts. In addition, it provides overview for the practitioners to make better decisions in project management. This helps address the common issues of practitioners not sure of what the next improvement step is. A case study using the proposed framework at a semiconductor company had successfully achieved the OEE benchmarks and set target for conversion time.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new integrated OEE framework offering a systematic approach toward implementing OEE improvements.
Creditworthiness and access to finance of SMEs in Malaysia: do linkages with large firms matter?
Authors: Wasiuzzaman Shaista , Nurdin Nabila , Abdullah Aznur Hajar , Vinayan Gowrie
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study investigates the influence of inter-firm linkages between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large firms on the relationship between an SME's creditworthiness and its access to finance.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey questionnaire was distributed to 456 SMEs in the manufacturing sector in the Selangor and Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur regions and a total of 145 useable responses were gathered. Investigation into the possible differences in the effect of creditworthiness – and its dimensions – on access to finance for SMEs with and without linkages are examined using Partial Least Squares-Multi Group Analysis (PLS-MGA).

Findings

It is found that the relationship between creditworthiness and access to finance is significant for both SMEs with and without links to large firms. However, no significant difference is found in the effect of creditworthiness on access to finance for both types of SME. Further analysis on the five different dimensions of creditworthiness shows statistically significant differences between SMEs with links and those without for the dimensions of collateral and condition. This implies that alliances formed between SMEs and large firms do not have much of an influence on the overall creditworthiness but do influence the collateral and condition of the SME.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of the effects of interfirm linkages on SME creditworthiness and access to finance. To the authors' knowledge no such study has been conducted on links between SMEs and large firms, especially in a developing country such as Malaysia.
Pro-veganism on Instagram
Authors: Phua Joe , Jin S. Venus , Kim Jihoon (Jay)
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Through two experiments, this study assessed source and message effects of Instagram-based pro-veganism messages.

Design/methodology/approach

Experiment 1 (N = 294) examined effects of organization (brand vs nonprofit) and message types (egoistic vs altruistic) on consumer responses to Instagram-based pro-veganism content. Experiment 2 (N = 288) examined effects of source type (celebrity vs noncelebrity) and message valence (positive vs negative) on consumer responses to Instagram-based pro-veganism content.

Findings

Results demonstrated significant main effects of organization type, with consumers indicating more positive attitudes and higher credibility toward the brand. Significant main effects of message type were also found, with altruistic messages eliciting higher perceived information value than egoistic messages. Subjective norms had moderating effects on attitude toward the organization, while attitude toward veganism had moderating effects on perceived information value. Results also indicated significant main effects of message valence on perceived information value of pro-veganism Instagram posts and significant interaction effects of the two manipulated factors on intention to spread electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) about pro-veganism.

Originality/value

Implications for use of Instagram-based health marketing communication about veganism were discussed. Specifically, organizations looking to use social media to influence attitudes and behavioral intentions toward health issues should seek to reach their target audiences through selecting endorsers and messages that will optimally present the health issue in a relatable and engaging way.
β‐Glucan is a major growth substrate for human gut bacteria related to Coprococcus eutactus
Authors: Alessi Anna M. , Gray Victoria , Farquharson Freda M. , Flores‐López Adriana , Shaw Sophie , Stead David , Wegmann Udo , Shearman Claire , Gasson Mike , Collie‐Duguid Elaina S. R. , Flint Harry J. , Louis Petra
Published: March 2020

A clone encoding carboxymethyl cellulase activity was isolated during functional screening of a human gut metagenomic library using Lactococcus lactis MG1363 as heterologous host. The insert carried a glycoside hydrolase family 9 (GH9) catalytic domain with sequence similarity to a gene from Coprococcus eutactus ART55/1. Genome surveys indicated a limited distribution of GH9 domains among dominant human colonic anaerobes. Genomes of C. eutactus‐related strains harboured two GH9‐encoding and four GH5‐encoding genes, but the strains did not appear to degrade cellulose. Instead, they grew well on β‐glucans and one of the strains also grew on galactomannan, galactan, glucomannan and starch. Coprococcus comes and Coprococcus catus strains did not harbour GH9 genes and were not able to grow on β‐glucans. Gene expression and proteomic analysis of C. eutactus ART55/1 grown on cellobiose, β‐glucan and lichenan revealed similar changes in expression in comparison to glucose. On β‐glucan and lichenan only, one of the four GH5 genes was strongly upregulated. Growth on glucomannan led to a transcriptional response of many genes, in particular a strong upregulation of glycoside hydrolases involved in mannan degradation. Thus, β‐glucans are a major growth substrate for species related to C. eutactus, with glucomannan and galactans alternative substrates for some strains.
Multiple Tools Are Needed for the Detection of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure: Findings From a Community Antenatal Setting
Authors: Stevens Suzanne , Anstice Nicola , Cooper Aimee , Goodman Lucy , Rogers Jennifer , Wouldes Trecia A.
Published: March 2020

Background

Although the toxic effects of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on children are well established, there is emerging evidence about the dynamics and associated demographics of drinking patterns across pregnancy, with risky drinking more likely to take place in the period before pregnancy awareness. This study investigated the use of complementary measurement tools in the understanding of alcohol use across pregnancy and reports on the rates and patterns of alcohol use in a community antenatal setting.

Methods

Data on alcohol consumption before and after awareness of pregnancy were collected via multiple measurement tools: anonymous lifestyle questionnaire, TWEAK (Tolerance, Worried, Eye‐opener, Amnesia, K/Cut down) screener questionnaire, and Substance Use Inventory interviews across multiple pregnancy timepoints. Additionally, phosphatidylethanol (PEth), a direct biomarker of alcohol metabolism, collected from newborns’ dried blood spot cards, was analyzed.

Results

The TWEAK screener was more likely to identify risky drinking behavior than the lifestyle questionnaire. When pregnancy was unplanned, women were more likely to find out they are pregnant significantly later (p < 0.001) and consume alcohol at moderate–heavy levels (p = 0.03), prolonging the risk to the fetus. There was an association between maternal self‐reported alcohol use on the lifestyle questionnaire and Substance Use Inventory interviews, but no association between maternal reports of alcohol use and PEth results (p = 0.72). Women self‐reported moderate–heavy alcohol use in early pregnancy only and a positive PEth screen indicated PAE in late pregnancy, suggesting that these methods may identify different groups of women.

Conclusions

Multiple measurement tools and methods are needed to identify PAE at different points across pregnancy. Prospective sensitive interviewing is better suited to detecting PAE in early pregnancy, but not later when social desirability bias is stronger, and the use of an objective biomarker, such a PEth, may be useful for identifying the risk of PAE in late pregnancy.
Risk factors of sepsis following pancreaticoduodenectomy based on inflammation markers and clinical characteristics
Authors: Zhang Haoyun , Meng Fanyu , Lu Shichun
Published: March 2020

Background

Sepsis is a common complication following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors of sepsis based on serum inflammatory markers and clinical characteristics in patients who underwent PD.

Methods

A total of 138 patients were enrolled in this study and all patients underwent curative PD. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for post‐operative sepsis. The patients' basic clinical features and inflammatory biomarkers including cytokines (IL‐1, IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10 and tumour necrosis factor‐α), procalcitonin, C‐reactive protein and peripheral neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio were analysed.

Results

Of 138 patients, 31 developed sepsis during hospitalization. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that body mass index, blood transfusion, operative time, American Society of Anesthesiologists score and diabetes were significant predictors of sepsis among all clinical characteristic variables. IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐10, procalcitonin and C‐reactive protein were significant predictors among all inflammation biomarkers. By including different variables, three different regression models were obtained. The full model including all predictors mentioned above showed a C‐index of 0.831 and blood transfusion showed no statistically significance in this model. The reduced model 1 including blood transfusion showed a C‐index of 0.809. Another reduced model which included pre‐operative and intra‐operative variables showed a C‐index of 0.814 and this model could be used for early sepsis risk estimation.

Conclusion

Pre‐operative IL‐6 was an independent risk factor for sepsis following PD. The three different predictive models could help early sepsis estimation for patients underwent PD.
Laos' hydropower development and cross‐border power trade in the Lower Mekong Basin: A discourse analysis
Authors: Tran Thong Anh , Suhardiman Diana
Published: March 2020

Increasing demands for energy to boost the Mekong economies have attracted the keen interest of riparian countries for hydropower development. This is evidenced by extensive investment in hydropower projects across the region over the last few decades. Drawing on interviews with key stakeholders, including officials from Ministry of Energy and Mines, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, private sector actors, civil society organisations and academics, as well as secondary data from public and policy resources, this paper aims to examine how the government of Laos' (GoL) decisions in hydropower development are influenced by regional energy dynamics, and how these shape the country's future energy development. The paper argues that the GoL's decisions on hydropower development are highly dilemmatic, given the current limited institutional capacity in hydropower governance and the accelerating evolution of alternative energy in neighbouring countries. While uncertainty in power markets is recognised, this places greater pressure on new hydropower projects as to how much power could be sufficiently produced and exported. The paper calls for GoL's policy considerations on the development and planning of alternative energy to secure the sustainable and equitable use of water resources as stipulated in the 1995 Mekong Agreement.
Spectre of neoliberal gentrification in Fiji: the price Suva's poor must pay
Authors: Mausio Asinate
Published: March 2020

This article seeks to examine Fiji's current housing crisis against the backdrop of neoliberal urbanism. In doing so, the article offers a fresh new perspective on the marginalisation, displacement and outright exclusion of the urban poor from the inner city areas of Suva. Among the trademark growth problems experienced by neoliberal cities across the globe, the crisis of urban housing affordability is perhaps more pronounced in Suva given economies of scale and constraints in Fiji's land tenure system. This article seeks to highlight that Suva's inner city spaces are being transformed along the lines of market fundamentalism and that this will exacerbate the social exclusion and displacement of Suva's poor.
Environmental migrants, structural injustice, and moral responsibility
Authors: Dwyer James
Published: March 2020

Climate change and environmental problems will force or induce millions of people to migrate. In this article, I describe environmental migration and articulate some of the ethical issues. To begin, I give an account of these migrants that overcomes misleading dichotomies. Then, I focus attention on two important ethical issues: justice and responsibility. Although we are all at risk of becoming environmental migrants, we are not equally at risk. Our risk depends on our temporal position, geographical location, social position, and the kind of society in which we live. We all contribute to environmental problems, but we do not contribute equally. About 11% of the world population is responsible for 50% of carbon emissions. These inequalities raise issues of justice because many of the people who are at high risk have contributed little to the problems. Since the issues of justice are relatively clear and compelling, I focus more attention on issues of responsibility. I use Iris Marion Young’s account of responsibility for structural injustice to address four key questions about moral responsibility and environmental migration.
DSGE models, detrending, and the method of moments
Authors: Mao Takongmo Charles Olivier
Published: March 2020

One important question in the DSGE literature is whether we should detrend data when estimating the parameters of a DSGE model using the moment method. It has been common in the literature to detrend data in the same way the model is detrended. Doing so works relatively well with linear models, in part because in such cases the information that disappears from the data is usually related to the parameters that also disappear from the detrended model. Unfortunately, in heavy non‐linear DSGE models, parameters rarely disappear from detrended models, but information does disappear from the detrended data. Using a simple real business cycle model, we show that both the moment method estimators of parameters and the estimated responses of endogenous variables to a technological shock can be seriously inaccurate when detrended data are used in the estimation process. Using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model and U.S. data, we show that detrending the data before estimating the parameters may result in a seriously misleading response of endogenous variables to monetary shocks. We suggest building the moment conditions using raw data, irrespective of the trend observed in the data.
A computational method based on Gustafson‐Kessel fuzzy clustering for a novel islanding detection for grid connected devices and sensors
Authors: Ponmudi B. , Balasubramanian G.
Published: March 2020

Fuzzy Clustering‐based (G‐K) Gustafson‐Kessel is used to create the fuzzy rule‐based classifier in a grid connected photovoltaic (PV) system where it is tested using specific features in a grid connected PV inverter for detecting islanding condition. It is detected when harmonic content of voltages at the Point of Common Coupling and inverter increases beyond a threshold value. If islanding is not detected, distribution lines are rendered unsafe. The present study uses G‐K fuzzy clustering to categorize islanding and nonislanding incidents. Two features based on Total Harmonic Distortion are extracted and used as inputs for the G‐K fuzzy clustering classifier. The proposed technique is tested using nonlinear loads and its performance is verified by simulation using MATLAB Simulink. A hardware test set‐up is developed to validate the proposed antiislanding technique and the results obtained are discussed.
The Moral Politics of Gendered Labour in Artisanal Mining in Sierra Leone
Authors: Rutherford Blair
Published: March 2020

Drawing on current anthropological approaches to labour, this article examines some of the moral politics mobilized around women and artisanal mining in policy‐inflected scholarship with reference to particular gold mining zones in Tonkolili district, Sierra Leone. In so doing, the article proposes that such a focus on labour not only allows one to appreciate how sentiments concerning (im)proper behaviour infuse wider policy proposals to amend social arrangements in regard to what is called ‘artisanal mining’, but it also offers insight into some of the enduring moral politics helping to constitute women as ‘family workers’ in the actual artisanal gold mining zones. The article suggests that examining the overlapping moral politics constituting women's labour practices provides a more supple understanding of the contested economic possibilities for women in this livelihood practice.
Antiplatelet therapies in diabetes
Authors: Sagar R. C. , Naseem K. M. , Ajjan R. A.
Published: March 2020

Cardiovascular complications remain the main cause of mortality and morbidity in diabetes. This is related to advanced vascular pathology in this population, together with an enhanced thrombotic environment. The increased risk in thrombosis is secondary to platelet hyper‐reactivity and increased levels and/or altered activity of coagulation factors. The current review is focused on the role of antiplatelet agents in modulating the thrombotic milieu in diabetes and improving vascular outcome in this high‐risk population. We review the latest evidence for the use of aspirin in primary vascular prevention together with long‐term treatment with this agent for secondary prevention. We also discuss the effects of the various P2Y12 inhibitors, including clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor, on both short‐ and long‐term secondary vascular prevention. Moreover, we briefly review antiplatelet therapies in special groups of people including those intolerant to aspirin, individuals with peripheral vascular disease and those with cerebrovascular pathology. The overall aim of this review is to provide the healthcare professional with a pragmatic guide for the management of thrombotic risk using established antiplatelet therapies to improve vascular outcome in persons with diabetes.
Testing association of rare genetic variants with resistance to three common antiseizure medications
Authors: Wolking Stefan , Moreau Claudia , Nies Anne T. , Schaeffeler Elke , McCormack Mark , Auce Pauls , Avbersek Andreja , Becker Felicitas , Krenn Martin , Møller Rikke S. , Nikanorova Marina , Weber Yvonne G. , Weckhuysen Sarah , Cavalleri Gianpiero L. , Delanty Norman , Depondt Chantal , Johnson Michael R. , Koeleman Bobby P.C. , Kunz Wolfram S. , Marson Anthony G. , Sander Josemir W. , Sills Graeme J. , Striano Pasquale , Zara Federico , Zimprich Fritz , Schwab Matthias , Krause Roland , Sisodiya Sanjay M. , Cossette Patrick , Girard Simon L. , Lerche Holger ,   EpiPGX Consortium
Published: March 2020

Objective

Drug resistance is a major concern in the treatment of individuals with epilepsy. No genetic markers for resistance to individual antiseizure medication (ASM) have yet been identified. We aimed to identify the role of rare genetic variants in drug resistance for three common ASMs: levetiracetam (LEV), lamotrigine (LTG), and valproic acid (VPA).

Methods

A cohort of 1622 individuals of European descent with epilepsy was deeply phenotyped and underwent whole exome sequencing (WES), comprising 575 taking LEV, 826 LTG, and 782 VPA. We performed gene‐ and gene set–based collapsing analyses comparing responders and nonresponders to the three drugs to determine the burden of different categories of rare genetic variants.

Results

We observed a marginally significant enrichment of rare missense, truncating, and splice region variants in individuals who were resistant to VPA compared to VPA responders for genes involved in VPA pharmacokinetics. We also found a borderline significant enrichment of truncating and splice region variants in the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein (SV2) gene family in nonresponders compared to responders to LEV. We did not see any significant enrichment using a gene‐based approach.

Significance

In our pharmacogenetic study, we identified a slightly increased burden of damaging variants in gene groups related to drug kinetics or targeting in individuals presenting with drug resistance to VPA or LEV. Such variants could thus determine a genetic contribution to drug resistance.
Critical mass: The rise of a touchscreen technology community for rodent cognitive testing
Authors: Dumont Julie R. , Salewski Ryan , Beraldo Flavio
Published: March 2020

The rise in the number of users and institutions utilizing the rodent touchscreen technology for cognitive testing over the past decade has prompted the need for knowledge mobilization and community building. To address the needs of the growing touchscreen community, the first international touchscreen symposium was hosted at Western University. Attendees from around the world attended talks from expert neuroscientists using touchscreens to examine a vast array of questions regarding cognition and the nervous system. In addition to the symposium, a subset of attendees was invited to partake in a hands‐on training course where they received touchscreen training covering both hardware and software components. Beyond the two touchscreen events, virtual platforms have been developed to further support touchscreen users: (a) Mousebytes.ca, which includes a data repository of rodent touchscreen tasks, and (b) Touchscreencognition.org, an online community with numerous training and community resources, perhaps most notably a forum where members can ask and answer questions. The advantages of the rodent touchscreen technology for cognitive neuroscience research has allowed neuroscientists from diverse backgrounds to test specific cognitive processes using well‐validated and standardized apparatus, contributing to its rise in popularity and its relevance to modern neuroscience research. The commitment of the touchscreen community to data, task development and information sharing not only ensures an expansive future of the use of rodent touchscreen technology but additionally, quality research that will increase translation from preclinical studies to clinical successes.
A role of sea buckthorn on Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Dong Ke , Fernando Warnakulasuriya M. A. D. Binosha , Durham Rosalie , Stockmann Regine , W. Jayatunga Dona Pamoda , Jayasena Vijay
Published: March 2020

Evidence suggests that diets rich in antioxidants reduce the risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Hippophae rhamnoides, commonly known as sea buckthorn (SB), is rich in antioxidants which could have direct effects on amyloid‐beta (Aβ) levels and consequently influence AD pathogenesis. In this study, sea buckthorn powder (SBP) was administered at varying concentrations (0.6, 0.9, 1.2, 1.5 and 1.8 µg mL−1) to cell cultures (BE(2)‐M17) with 20 mm Aβ for 72 h. MTS test indicated that SB significantly increased cell viability in Aβ‐induced cells up to 95%. Results of Western blot showed maximum 38% inhibition of Aβ compared to the control (Aβ only). ELISA demonstrated significantly lower amyloid‐β level (6672 pg mL−1) than the control (10189 pg mL−1). Images of AFM further confirmed the presence of low quantity of amyloid beta in SBP‐treated cells. These findings suggest that SB warrants further investigation as potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of AD.
Relationship Satisfaction Across the Transition to Parenthood Among Interracial Couples: An Integrative Model
Authors: Roy Roudi Nazarinia , James Anthony , Brown Tiffany L. , Craft Alexandrea , Mitchell Yolanda
Published: March 2020

As the number of multiracial families in the United States steadily increases, so does the need for more relevant conceptual frameworks that capture the structures and processes in these families. Much of the theoretical and empirical literature on the multiracial experience has focused on identity development, which has resulted in a body of scholarship heavily steeped in the individual level of analysis that neglects dyadic process‐oriented perspectives. More specifically, multiracial families experience complex life transitions just as their monoracial counterparts do, yet there is little recognition and/or understanding of their strengths and challenges, both as a family unit and as individuals within these family structures. This article proposes a conceptual model to describe and explain the relationship satisfaction of interracial couples across the transition to parenthood. We pay particular attention to the factors that are particular to interracial couples across this life transition.
School‐Level Factors Associated with Sun Protection Practices in California Elementary Schools
Authors: Reynolds Kim D. , Buller David B. , Berteletti Julia , Massie Kim , Ashley Jeff , Buller Mary K. , Meenan Richard T. , Liu Xia
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

This study examined implementation of district sun safety policy in schools and tested correlates of implementation in California public school districts.

METHODS

Principals (N = 118) and teachers (N = 113) in California public elementary schools (N = 118) were recruited and completed a survey on sun protection policies and practices. The sample contained schools whose districts subscribed to the California School Boards Association and adopted Board Policy 5141.7 for sun safety. Principals and teachers reported on implementation of 10 school practices related to BP 5141.7 indicating which practices were implemented in the school.

RESULTS

Years in public education (Exponentiated Score (ES) = 0.51, p < .001), years worked in the current district (ES = 0.49, p < .001), perception that parents should take action to protect children from the sun (ES = 0.43, p < .01), and personal skin phenotype (Low Risk ES = 0.55; High Risk ES = 0.09, p < .05) were associated with number of practices implemented in the school using multiple Poisson regression.

CONCLUSIONS

Policy implementation is more likely among schools with experienced faculty, when parents are seen as important partners in student skin cancer prevention, and when school principals and teachers have a lower personal risk phenotype.
Effects of dietary amylose/amylopectin ratio and amylase on growth performance, energy and starch digestibility, and digestive enzymes in broilers
Authors: Ma Jie , Yang Tai , Yang Mei , Yan Zhaoming , Zhao Lei , Yao Linglong , Chen Jiashun , Chen Qinghua , Tan Bie , Li Tiejun , Yin Jie , Yin Yulong
Published: March 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary amylose/amylopectin (AM/AP) ratio and amylase on growth performance, apparent digestibility of energy and starch, serum biochemical index, and digestive enzymes. The experiment used a 4 × 3 factor design, and 960 one‐day‐old Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly divided into 12 groups fed diets containing different AM/AP ratio of 0.11, 0.23, 0.35 and 0.47 and combined with 0, 3,000 and 6,000 U/kg amylase. Results showed that 0.23–0.35 AM/AP ratio increased growth performance, while dietary addition of 6,000 U/kg amylase significantly reduced average daily weight gain in broilers. The energy digestibility was significantly reduced along with the increase of dietary AM/AP ratio and in the 6,000 U/Kg amylase‐supplemented groups. The digestibility of starch also decreased significantly with the increase of dietary AM/AP ratio, but high dose (6,000 U/Kg) of amylase increased. High AM/AP diet reduced serum insulin concentration, which was increased in amylase‐supplemented groups. Furthermore, exogenous amylase increased amylase activity in the jejunal chyme. In conclusion, dietary 0.23–0.35 AM/AP ratio was suggested to maintain a higher growth performance in broilers and high AM/AP ratio diets reduced energy and starch digestibility and serum insulin concentration, which was reversed by dietary amylase.
Absence of Bsep/Abcb11 attenuates MCD diet‐induced hepatic steatosis but aggravates inflammation in mice
Authors: Fuchs Claudia D. , Krivanec Sebastian , Steinacher Daniel , Mlitz Veronika , Wahlström Annika , Stahlman Marcus , Claudel Thierry , Scharnagl Hubert , Stojakovic Tatjana , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich , Trauner Michael
Published: March 2020

Background

Bile acids (BAs) regulate hepatic lipid metabolism and inflammation. Bile salt export pump (BSEP) KO mice are metabolically preconditioned with a hydrophilic BA composition protecting them from cholestasis. We hypothesize that changes in hepatic BA profile and subsequent changes in BA signalling may critically determine the susceptibility to steatohepatitis.

Methods

Wild‐type (WT) and BSEP KO mice were challenged with methionine choline‐deficient (MCD) diet to induce steatohepatitis. Serum biochemistry, lipid profiling as well as intestinal lipid absorption were assessed. Markers of inflammation, fibrosis, lipid and BA metabolism were analysed. Hepatic and faecal BA profile as well as serum levels of the BA synthesis intermediate 7‐hydroxy‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one (C4) were also investigated.

Results

Bile salt export pump KO MCD‐fed mice developed less steatosis but more inflammation than WT mice. Intestinal neutral lipid levels were reduced in BSEP KO mice at baseline and under MCD conditions. Faecal non‐esterified fatty acid concentrations at baseline and under MCD diet were markedly elevated in BSEP KO compared to WT mice. Serum liver enzymes and hepatic expression of inflammatory markers were increased in MCD‐fed BSEP KO animals. PPARα protein levels were reduced in BSEP KO mice. Accordingly, PPARα downstream targets Fabp1 and Fatp5 were repressed, while NFκB subunits were increased in MCD‐fed BSEP KO mice. Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) protein levels were reduced in MCD‐fed BSEP KO vs WT mice. Hepatic BA profile revealed elevated levels of TβMCA, exerting FXR antagonistic action, while concentrations of TCA (FXR agonistic function) were reduced.

Conclusion

Presence of hydroxylated BAs result in increased faecal FA excretion and reduced hepatic lipid accumulation. This aggravates development of MCD diet‐induced hepatitis potentially by decreasing FXR and PPARα signalling.
Visible–near infrared spectral indices for mapping mineralogy and chemistry with OSIRIS‐REx
Authors: Kaplan Hannah H. , Hamilton Victoria E. , Howell Ellen S. , Scott Anderson F. , Barrucci M. Antonella , Brucato John , Burbine Thomas H. , Clark Beth E. , Cloutis Ed A. , Connolly Harold C. , Dotto Elisabetta , Emery Joshua P. , Fornasier Sonia , Lantz Cateline , Lim Lucy F. , Merlin Frederic , Praet Alice , Reuter Dennis C. , Sandford Scott A. , Simon Amy A. , Takir Driss , Lauretta Dante S.
Published: March 2020

The primary objective of the Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security–Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS‐REx) mission is to return to Earth a pristine sample of carbonaceous material from the primitive asteroid (101955) Bennu. To support compositional mapping of Bennu as part of sample site selection and characterization, we tested 95 spectral indices on visible to near infrared laboratory reflectance data from minerals and carbonaceous meteorites. Our aim was to determine which indices reliably identify spectral features of interest. Most spectral indices had high positive detection rates when applied to spectra of pure, single‐component materials. The meteorite spectra have fewer and weaker absorption features and, as a result, fewer detections with the spectral indices. Indices targeting absorptions at 0.7 and 2.7–3 μm, which are attributable to hydrated minerals, were most successful for the meteorites. Based on these results, we identified a set of 17 indices that are most likely to be useful at Bennu. These indices detect olivines, pyroxenes, carbonates, water/OH‐bearing minerals, serpentines, ferric minerals, and organics. Particle size and albedo are known to affect band depth but had a negligible impact on interpretive success with spectral indices. Preliminary analysis of the disk‐integrated Bennu spectrum with these indices is consistent with expectations given the observed absorption near 3 μm. Our study prioritizes spectral indices to be used for OSIRIS‐REx spectral analysis and mapping and informs the reliability of all index‐derived data products, including a science value map for sample site selection.
Dynamical behavior of tribal‐forest system in the presence of development activities: Leslie–Gower‐based nonlinear modeling study
Authors: Tandon Abhinav
Published: March 2020

A nonlinear dynamical system is developed in the proposed study to gain insight into the tribal‐forest system in the presence of unplanned development activities. Here, the system is comprised of densities of forest resources, tribal population, and development activities as dynamic variables. The realistic dynamics between the tribal population and forest resources is considered to be of modified Leslie–Gower consumer–resource type. The qualitative properties of the system are obtained by establishing the equilibrium points and their stabilities. However, permanence is derived to prove the system's viability in the long run. The model is also quantitatively examined using global sensitivity and bifurcation analyses. Through these analyses, sensitivity to different parameters and their thresholds for qualitative behavioral change are determined. The mathematical analyses prove that excessive overexploitation of forest resources and uncontrollable development activities can put the system in a state of destabilization and impermanence.

Recommendations for Resource Managers

A harmonious tribal‐forest system can be established by devising proper schemes to check unprecedented and unplanned development activities in the tribal region. For this, development projects should be thoroughly evaluated by the government agencies, before their approval.

Measures to increase the density of forest resources should be practised to cover up the loss incurred due to their utilization in development activities. This can be achieved by increasing the forest cover with enhanced plantation in and around forests and through effective protection schemes.

Initiatives to retain and employ tribal people in forests should be adopted for the protection and expansion of forests. The extraordinary knowledge inherited in tribal people about flora and fauna of forest system can be productively utilized for the conservation of biodiversity.
Enrique San Román (1945–2019)
Authors: Aramendía Pedro F. , Braslavsky Silvia E. , Lagorio María Gabriela
Published: March 2020

An homage to the Argentinian Photochemist Enrique San Román is presented. Enrique led the Photochemistry and Chemical Kinetics research group in the Department of Inorganic, Analytical and Physical Chemistry in the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences of the University of Buenos Aires from 1984 until his death in July 2019. He left a strong legacy in Chemical Kinetics and Photochemistry in Argentina. He is remembered as a meticulous and very knowledgeable scientist and teacher, a loyal friend and a generous and integer human being.
Living arrangements and cognitive abilities of community‐dwelling older adults in Singapore
Authors: Roystonn Kumarasan , Abdin Edimansyah , Shahwan Shazana , Zhang Yunjue , Sambasivam Rajeswari , Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit , Mahendran Rathi , Chua Hong Choon , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: March 2020

Aim

Dementia is a growing public health concern. It is necessary to focus on factors that may help preserve cognitive function in late life. Limited research has examined how living arrangements are associated with cognitive function in older adults. This study aims to further our understanding of this association in community‐dwelling older adults in a multi‐ethnic Asian population.

Methods

Data were obtained from a cross‐sectional population survey of 2548 adults aged 60 and older with standardized instruments. Living arrangements were classified as living with adult children and grandchildren, living with adult children only, living with a spouse/partner only, living alone, living with other relatives, and living with non‐relatives.

Results

Cognitive function was significantly predicted by living arrangements among community‐dwelling older adults. Multivariate linear regression analyses revealed that older adults in multigenerational family households had significantly poorer cognitive function than those living with a spouse/partner (β = 0.54, P < 0.02) and those living with non‐relatives (β = 1.08, P < 0.02). This association was independent of the influence of age, gender, ethnicity, education, employment status, marital status, depression, disability, chronic health conditions, and self‐reported health.

Conclusion

Older adults living in multigenerational households seem to be disadvantaged in their cognitive function. However, we cannot conclude this based on the evidence because of the cross‐sectional nature of the data. Further research is needed to reasonably determine the relationship between living arrangements and cognitive function. Regardless, these findings add to the growing understanding of the complex relationship between living arrangements and cognition in older adults and could provide a basis to design effective strategies to delay cognitive decline in community‐dwelling older adults.