bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlated evolution of self and interspecific incompatibility across the range of a Texas wildflower
Authors: Roda Federico , Hopkins Robin
Published: July 2017

Plant species have repeatedly evolved recognition systems between pollen and pistils that identify and reject inappropriate matings. Two of the most important systems recognize self-pollen and interspecific pollen. Outstanding questions are whether and how these two recognition systems are linked and if this association could constrain the evolution of mate choice. Our study characterizes variation in self and interspecific incompatibility in the native range of the Texas wildflowerPhlox drummondii. We found quantitative variation in self-incompatibility and demonstrate that this variation is significantly correlated with variation in incompatibility with its close congenerP. cuspidata. Furthermore, we find strong evidence that self and interspecific incompatibility involve common mechanisms of pollen adhesion or early pollen-tube germination. Finally, we show thatP. drummondiipopulations that co-occur and hybridize withP. cuspidatahave significantly higher interspecific incompatibility and self-incompatibility than isolatedP. drummondiipopulations. This geographic variation suggests that the evolution of self-compatibility is constrained by selection favoring interspecific incompatibility to reduce maladaptive hybridization. To our knowledge this is the strongest evidence that a correlation between variation in self and interspecific incompatibilities could influence the evolution of pollen recognition across the range of a species.
BPG: Seamless, Automated and Interactive Visualization of Scientific Data
Authors: P’ng Christine , Green Jeffrey , Chong Lauren C. , Waggott Daryl , Prokopec Stephenie D. , Shamsi Mehrdad , Nguyen Francis , Mak Denise Y.F. , Lam Felix , Albuquerque Marco A. , Wu Ying , Jung Esther H. , Starmans Maud H.W. , Chan-Seng-Yue Michelle A. , Yao Cindy Q. , Liang Bianca , Lalonde Emilie , Haider Syed , Simone Nicole A. , Sendorek Dorota , Chu Kenneth C. , Moon Nathalie C. , Fox Natalie S. , Grzadkowski Michal R. , Harding Nicholas J. , Fung Clement , Murdoch Amanda R. , Houlahan Kathleen E. , Wang Jianxin , Garcia David R. , Borja Richard de , Sun Ren X. , Lin Xihui , Chen Gregory M. , Lu Aileen , Shiah Yu-Jia , Zia Amin , Kearns Ryan , Boutros Paul C.
Published: June 2017

We introduce BPG, an easy-to-use framework for generating publication-quality, highly-customizable plots in the R statistical environment. This open-source package includes novel methods of displaying high-dimensional datasets and facilitates generation of complex multi-panel figures, making it ideal for complex datasets. A web-based interactive tool allows online figure customization, from which R code can be downloaded for seamless integration with computational pipelines. BPG is available athttp://labs.oicr.on.ca/boutros-lab/software/bpg
Single-molecule FISH in Drosophila muscle reveals location dependent mRNA composition of megaRNPs
Authors: Noma Akiko , Smith Carlas S. , Huisman Maximillian , Martin Robert M. , Moore Melissa J. , Grunwald David
Published: June 2017

Single-molecule fluorescence in-situ hybridization (smFISH) provides direct access to the spatial relationship between nucleic acids and specific subcellular locations. The ability to precisely localize a messenger RNA can reveal key information about its regulation. Although smFISH is well established in cell culture or thin sections, methods for its accurate application to tissues are lacking. The utility of smFISH in thick tissue sections must overcome several challenges, including probe penetration of fixed tissue, accessibility of target mRNAs for probe hybridization, high fluorescent background, spherical aberration along the optical axis, and image segmentation of organelles. Here we describe how we overcame these obstacles to study mRNA localization inDrosophilalarval muscle samples that approach 50 μm thickness. We use sample-specific optimization of smFISH, particle identification based on maximum likelihood testing, and 3-dimensional multiple-organelle segmentation. The latter allows using independent thresholds for different regions of interest within an image stack. Our approach therefore facilitates accurate measurement of mRNA location in thick tissues.
Resistome SNP Calling via Read Colored de Bruijn Graphs
Authors: Alipanahi Bahar , Muggli Martin D. , Jundi Musa , Noyes Noelle , Boucher Christina
Published: June 2017

Motivation

The resistome, which refers to all of the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria, is frequently studied using shotgun metagenomic data [14, 47]. Unfortunately, few existing methods are able to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within metagenomic data, and to the best of our knowledge, no methods exist to detect SNPs within AMR genes within the resistome. The ability to identify SNPs in AMR genes across the resistome would represent a significant advance in understanding the dissemination and evolution of AMR, as SNP identification would enable “fingerprinting” of the resistome, which could then be used to track AMR dynamics across various settings and/or time periods.

Results

We present LueVari, a reference-free SNP caller based on the read colored de Bruijn graph, an extension of the traditional de Bruijn graph that allows repeated regions longer than thek-mer length and shorter than the read length to be identified unambiguously. We demonstrate LueVari was the only method that had reliable sensitivity (between 73% and 98%) as the performance of competing methods varied widely. Furthermore, we show LueVari constructs sequences containing the variation which span 93% of the gene in datasets with lower coverage (15X), and 100% of the gene in datasets with higher coverage (30X).

Availability

Code and datasets are publicly available athttps://github.com/baharpan/cosmo/tree/LueVari.
Widely used commercial ELISA does not detect preHP-2, but recognizes properdin as a potential second member of the zonulin family
Authors: Scheffler Lucas , Crane Alyce , Heyne Henrike , Tönjes Anke , Schleinitz Dorit , Ihling Christian H. , Stumvoll Michael , Freire Rachel , Fiorentino Maria , Fasano Alessio , Kovacs Peter , Heiker John T.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

There is increasing evidence for the role of impaired intestinal permeability in obesity and associated metabolic diseases. Zonulin is an established serum marker for intestinal permeability and identical to pre-haptoglobin2. Here, we aimed to investigate the relationship between circulating zonulin and metabolic traits related to obesity.

METHODS

Serum zonulin was measured by using a widely used commercial ELISA kit in 376 subjects from the metabolically well-characterized cohort of Sorbs from Germany. In addition, haptoglobin genotype was determined in DNA samples from all study subjects.

RESULTS

As zonulin concentrations did not correlate to the haptoglobin genotypes, we investigated the specificity of the zonulin ELISA assay using antibody capture experiments, mass spectrometry and Western blot analysis. Using serum samples that gave the highest or lowest ELISA signals, we detected several proteins that are likely to be captured by the antibody in the present kit. However, none of these proteins corresponds to pre-haptoglobin2. We used increasing concentrations of recombinant pre-haptoglobin 2 and complement C3 as one of the representative captured proteins and the ELISA kit did not detect either. Western blot analysis using both the polyclonal antibodies used in this kit and monoclonal antibodies rose against zonulin showed a similar protein recognition pattern but with different intensity of detection. The protein(s) measured using the ELISA kit was (were) significantly increased in patients with diabetes and obesity and correlated strongly with markers of the lipid and glucose metabolism. Combining mass spectrometry and Western blot analysis using the polyclonal antibodies used in the ELISA kit, we identified properdin as another member of the zonulin family.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that the zonulin ELISA does not recognize pre-haptoglobin 2, rather structural (and possibly functional) analogue proteins belonging to the mannose-associated serine protease family, with properdin being the most likely possible candidate.
Semantic Networks Generated from Early Linguistic Input
Authors: Amatuni Andrei , Bergelson Elika
Published: July 2017

Semantic networks generated from different word corpora show common structural characteristics, including high degrees of clustering, short average path lengths, and scale free degree distributions. Previous research has disagreed about whether these features emerge from internally or externally driven properties (i.e. words already in the lexicon vs. regularities in the external world), mapping onto preferential attachment and preferential acquisition accounts, respectively (Steyvers & Tenenbaum, 2005; Hills, Maouene, Maouene, Sheya, & Smith, 2009). Such accounts suggest that inherent semantic structure shapes new lexical growth. Here we extend previous work by creating semantic networks using the SEEDLingS corpus, a newly collected corpus of linguistic input to infants. Using a recently developed LSA-like approach (GLoVe vectors), we confirm the presence of previously reported structural characteristics, but only in certain ranges of semantic similarity space. Our results confirm the robustness of certain aspects of network organization, and provide novel evidence in support of preferential acquisition accounts.
Detecting tandem repeat expansions in cohorts sequenced with short-read sequencing data
Authors: Tankard Rick M , Bennett Mark F , Degorski Peter , Delatycki Martin B , Lockhart Paul J , Bahlo Melanie
Published: July 2017

Repeat expansions cause over 30, predominantly neurogenetic, inherited disorders. These can present with overlapping clinical phenotypes, making molecular diagnosis challenging. Single gene or small panel PCR-based methods are employed to identify the precise genetic cause, but can be slow and costly, and often yield no result. Genomic analysis via whole exome and whole genome sequencing (WES and WGS) is being increasingly performed to diagnose genetic disorders. However, until recently analysis protocols could not identify repeat expansions in these datasets.

A new method, called exSTRa (expandedShortTandemRepeatalgorithm) for the identification of repeat expansions using either WES or WGS was developed and performance of exSTRa was assessed in a simulation study. In addition, four retrospective cohorts of individuals with eleven different known repeat expansion disorders were analysed with the new method. Results were assessed by comparing to known disease status. Performance was also compared to three other analysis methods (ExpansionHunter, STRetch and TREDPARSE), which were developed specifically for WGS data. Expansions in the STR loci assessed were successfully identified in WES and WGS datasets by all four methods, with high specificity and sensitivity, excepting the FRAXA STR where expansions were unlikely to be detected. Overall exSTRa demonstrated more robust/superior performance for WES data in comparison to the other three methods. exSTRa can be applied to existing WES or WGS data to identify likely repeat expansions and can be used to investigate any STR of interest, by specifying location and repeat motif. We demonstrate that methods such as exSTRa can be effectively utilized as a screening tool to interrogate WES data generated with PCR-based library preparations and WGS data generated using either PCR-based or PCR-free library protocols, for repeat expansions which can then be followed up with specific diagnostic tests. exSTRa is available via GitHub (https://github.com/bahlolab/exSTRa).
Dissection of purified LINE-1 reveals distinct nuclear and cytoplasmic intermediates
Authors: Molloy K.R. , Taylor M.S. , Altukhov I. , Mita P. , Jiang H. , Adney E.M. , Wudzinska A. , Ischenko D. , Burns K.H. , Fenyö D. , Chait B.T. , Alexeev D. , Rout M.P. , Boeke J.D. , LaCava J.
Published: July 2017

1.

Long Interspersed Nuclear Element-1 (LINE-1, L1) is a mobile genetic element active in human genomes. L1-encoded ORF1 and ORF2 proteins bind L1 RNAs, forming ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). These RNPs interact with diverse host proteins, some repressive and others required for the L1 lifecycle. Using differential affinity purifications and quantitative mass spectrometry, we have characterized the proteins associated with distinctive L1 macromolecular complexes. Our findings support the presence of multiple L1-derived retrotransposition intermediatesin vivo. Among them, we describe a cytoplasmic intermediate that we hypothesize to be the canonical ORF1p/ORF2p/L1-RNA-containing RNP, and we describe a nuclear population containing ORF2p, but lacking ORF1p, which likely contains host factors participating in template-primed reverse transcription.
Impact of different intensities of intermittent theta burst stimulation on the cortical properties during TMS-EEG and working memory performance
Authors: Chung Sung Wook , Rogash Nigel C. , Hoy Kate E. , Sullivan Caley M. , Cash Robin F. H. , Ftizgerald Paul B.
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique capable of increasing cortical excitability beyond the stimulation period. Due to the rapid induction of modulatory effects compared to conventional repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) paradigms, prefrontal application of iTBS is gaining popularity as a therapeutic tool for psychiatric disorders such as depression. In an attempt to increase efficacy, higher than conventional intensities are currently being applied. The assumption that this increases neuromodulatory effect is well established for the standard rTMS paradigms but may be mechanistically false for iTBS. This study examined the influence of intensity on the neurophysiological and behavioural effects of iTBS in the prefrontal cortex.

Methods

16 healthy participants received iTBS over prefrontal cortex (F1 electrode) at either 50, 75 or 100% resting motor threshold (rMT) in separate sessions. Single-pulse TMS and concurrent electroencephalography (EEG) was used to assess changes in cortical reactivity measured as TMS-evoked potentials (TEPs) and TMS-evoked oscillations. The n-back task (2-back and 3-back) were used to assess changes in working memory (accuracy and reaction time).

Results

The data can be summarised as an inverse U-shape relationship between intensity and iTBS plastic effects, where 75% iTBS resulted in the largest neurophysiological changes both in TMS-EEG and working memory. Even though 75% iTBS showed significantly decreased reaction time in the 3-back task, between condition comparisons revealed no significant differences.

Conclusions

The assumption that higher intensity results in greater neuromodulatory effects is false, at least in healthy individuals, and should be carefully considered for clinical populations. Neurophysiological changes associated with working memory following iTBS suggest functional relevance. However, the effects of different intensities on behavioural performance remain elusive in the present healthy sample.

Highlights

Effects of prefrontal iTBS at 50, 75 and 100% rMT were investigated

Inverse U-shape relationship between intensity and neurophysiological effects

Effects on the behavioural performance remain elusive in healthy individuals

Disclosures and conflict of interests

SWC was supported by a Monash Graduate Scholarship. NCR is supported by a NHMRC Early Career Fellowship (1072057). KEH is supported by a NHMRC Career Development Fellowship (1082894). PBF is supported by a NHMRC Practitioner Fellowship (1078567). PBF has received equipment for research from MagVenture A/S, Medtronic Ltd, Cervel Neurotech and Brainsway Ltd and funding for research from Neuronetics and Cervel Neurotech. He is on the scientific advisory board for Bionomics Ltd. There are no other conflicts.
Taking off the training wheels: Measuring auditory P3 during outdoor cycling using an active wet EEG system
Authors: Scanlon Joanna E. M. , Townsend Kimberley A. , Cormier Danielle L. , Kuziek Jonathan W. P. , Mathewson Kyle E.
Published: July 2017

Mobile EEG allows the investigation of brain activity in increasingly complex environments. In this study, EEG equipment was adapted for use and transportation in a backpack while cycling. Participants performed an auditory oddball task while cycling outside and sitting in an isolated chamber inside the lab. Cycling increased EEG noise and marginally diminished alpha amplitude. However, this increased noise did not influence the ability to measure reliable event related potentials (ERP). The P3 was similar in topography, and morphology when outside on the bike, with a lower amplitude in the outside cycling condition. There was only a minor decrease in the statistical power to measure reliable ERP effects. Unexpectedly, when biking outside significantly decreased P2 and increased N1 amplitude were observed when evoked by both standards and targets compared with sitting in the lab. This may be due to attentional processes filtering the overlapping sounds between the tones used and similar environmental frequencies. This study established methods for mobile recording of ERP signals. Future directions include investigating auditory P2 filtering inside the laboratory.

Highlights

A backpack containing all the equipment necessary to record ERP and EEG was worn by participants as they rode a bicycle outside along a street

EEG and ERP data from an auditory oddball task is compared with data acquired within subject inside the lab

Reliable MMN/N2b and P3 responses were measured during bicycle riding outside equal in magnitude to those obtained inside the lab

A surprising decrease in the P2 component of the ERP evoked by targets and standards was observed when doing the task outside on a bicycle, which we attribute to increased auditory filtering
Integration of plasticity mechanisms within a single sensory neuron ofC. elegansactuates a memory
Authors: Hawk Josh D. , Calvo Ana C. , Almoril-Porras Agustin , Aljobeh Ahmad , Torruella-Suárez Maria Luisa , Ren Ivy , Cook Nathan , Greenwood Joel , Luo Linjiao , Samuel Aravinthan D.T. , Colón-Ramos Daniel A.
Published: July 2017

Neural plasticity—the ability of a neuron to change its cellular properties in response to past experiences—underpins the nervous system’s capacity to form memories and actuate behaviors. How different plasticity mechanisms act togetherin vivoand at a cellular level to transform sensory information into behavior is not well understood. Here we show that in the nematodeC. eleganstwo plasticity mechanisms—sensory adaptation and presynaptic plasticity—act within a single cell to encode thermosensory information and actuate a temperature-preference memory. Sensory adaptation enables the primary thermosensory neuron, AFD, to adjust the temperature range of its sensitivity to the local environment, thereby optimizing its ability to detect temperature fluctuations associated with migration. Presynaptic plasticity transforms this thermosensory information into a behavioral preference by gating synaptic communication between sensory neuron AFD and its postsynaptic partner, AIY. The gating of synaptic communication is regulated at AFD presynaptic sites by the conserved kinase nPKCε. Bypassing or altering AFD presynaptic plasticity predictably changes the learned behavioral preferences without affecting sensory responses. Our findings indicate that two distinct and modular neuroplasticity mechanisms function together within a single sensory neuron to encode multiple components of information required to enact thermotactic behavior. The integration of these plasticity mechanisms result in a single-cell logic system that can both represent sensory stimuli and guide memory-based behavioral preference.
On the Origins of the Cerebral IVIM Signal
Authors: Hare Hannah V. , Frost Robert , Meakin James A. , Bulte Daniel P.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) has been proposed as a means of non-invasive MRI measurement of perfusion parameters such as blood flow and blood volume. Its main competitor in the brain is arterial spin labelling (ASL). In theory, IVIM should not suffer from some of the same limitations as ASL such as poor signal in white matter, and assumptions about arterial arrival times that may be violated in the presence of pathology.

Methods

In this study we aimed to test IVIM as a viable alternative to ASL for quantitative imaging of perfusion parameters in the brain. First, a direct comparison was performed between IVIM and multi-post label delay pseudo-continuous ASL; second, IVIM images were acquired with and without nulling cerebrospinal fluid; and finally, ultra-high resolution IVIM was performed to minimise partial voluming.

Results

In all three tests, IVIM failed to disprove the null hypothesis, strongly suggesting that, at least within the brain, the technique does not measure perfusion parameters as proposed.

Conclusion

Furthermore, the results obtained suggest that the contrast visible in IVIM-derived images is primarily sensitive to cerebrospinal fluid, and not the microvascular blood compartment.
Immuno-Detection by sequencing (ID-seq) enables large-scale high-dimensional phenotyping in cells
Authors: van Buggenum Jessie A.G. , Gerlach Jan P. , Tanis Sabine E.J. , Hogeweg Mark , Middelwijk Jesse , van der Steen Ruud , Albers Cornelis A. , Mulder Klaas W.
Published: July 2017

Cell-based small molecule screening is an effective strategy leading to new medicines. Scientists in the pharmaceutical industry as well as in academia have made tremendous progress in developing both large-scale and smaller-scale screening assays. However, an accessible and universal technology for measuring large numbers of molecular and cellular phenotypes in many samples in parallel is not available. Here, we present the Immuno-Detection by sequencing (ID-seq) technology that combines antibody-based protein detection and DNA-sequencing via DNA-tagged antibodies. We used ID-seq to simultaneously measure 84 (phospho-)proteins in hundreds of samples and screen the effects of ~300 kinase inhibitor probes on primary human epidermal stem cells to characterise the role of 225 kinases. Our work highlighted a previously unrecognized downregulation of mTOR signaling during differentiation and uncovered 13 kinases regulating epidermal renewal through distinct mechanisms.
Methods for the Refolding of Disulfide-Rich Proteins
Authors: Haggarty-Weir Christopher N , Galloway Roma , Godfrey William
Published: July 2017

Eschericia coliremains the workhorse producing recombinant proteins given its ease of handling, access and genetic manipulation using standard laboratory techniques. However, disulfide-rich proteins can be difficult to produce inE. coli, in large part due to the reducing environment of the bacterial cytoplasm. Refolding from insoluble inclusion bodies can be a viable strategy for generating substantial quantities of disulfide-rich protein. For the best chance of successfully refolding a protein, it is vital to carry out a variety of small-scale test refolds under a swathe of conditions including altering the concentration of urea, salts, reduced and oxidized glutathione, temperature, length of refold time and protein dilution factor. Once a protein has undergone refolding it is vital to determine that the final product is natively folded given the chance of soluble misfolded protein. For determination of correct folding, a variety of techniques can be employed, and ideally, numerous should be used together. For proteins that possess enzymatic function the gold standard to assess correct folding is an activity assay. Non-enzymatic proteins can be assessed using a combination of circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These techniques should be utilized alongside mass spectrometry, Western blotting and SDS-PAGE.
The emergence, maintenance and demise of diversity in a spatially variable antibiotic regime
Authors: Leale Alanna M. , Kassen Rees
Published: July 2017

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global threat that, in the absence of new antibiotics, requires effective management of existing drugs. Here, we explore how changing patterns of drug delivery modulates the spread of resistance in a population. Resistance evolves readily under both temporal and spatial variation in drug delivery and fixes rapidly under temporal, but not spatial, variation. Resistant and sensitive genotypes coexist in spatially varying conditions due to a resistance-growth rate trade-off which, when coupled to dispersal, generates negative frequency-dependent selection and a quasi-protected polymorphism. Coexistence is ultimately lost, however, because resistant types with improved growth rates in the absence of drug spread through the population. These results suggest that spatially variable drug prescriptions can delay but not prevent the spread of resistance and provide a striking example of how the emergence and eventual demise of biodiversity is underpinned by evolving fitness trade-offs.
Single-cell replication profiling reveals stochastic regulation of the mammalian replication-timing program
Authors: Dileep Vishnu , Gilbert David M.
Published: July 2017

In mammalian cells, distinct replication domains (RDs), corresponding to structural units of chromosomes called topologically-associating domains (TADs), replicate at different times during S-phase1–4. Further, early/late replication of RDs corresponds to active/inactive chromatin interaction compartments5,6. Although replication origins are selected stochastically, such that each cell is using a different cohort of origins to replicate their genomes7–12, replication-timing is regulated independently and upstream of origin selection13and evidence suggests that replication timing is conserved in consecutive cell cycles14. Hence, quantifying the extent of cell-to-cell variation in replication timing is central to studies of chromosome structure and function. Here we devise a strategy to measure variation in single-cell replication timing using DNA copy number. We find that borders between replicated and un-replicated DNA are highly conserved between cells, demarcating active and inactive compartments of the nucleus. Nonetheless, measurable variation was evident. Surprisingly, we detected a similar degree of variation in replication timing from cell-to-cell, between homologues within cells, and between all domains genome-wide regardless of their replication timing. These results demonstrate that stochastic variation in replication timing is independent of elements that dictate timing or extrinsic environmental variation.
Rapid whole-genome sequencing identifies a novel homozygous NPC1 variant associated with Niemann–Pick type C1 disease in a 7-week-old male with cholestasis
Authors: Hildreth Amber , Wigby Kristen , Chowdhury Shimul , Nahas Shareef , Barea Jaime , Ordonez Paulina , Batalov Sergey , Dimmock David , Kingsmore Stephen ,   on behalf of the RCIGM Investigators
Published: June 2017

Niemann–Pick type C disease (NPC; OMIM #257220) is an inborn error of intracellular cholesterol trafficking. It is an autosomal recessive disorder caused predominantly by mutations in NPC1. Although characterized as a progressive neurological disorder, it can also cause cholestasis and liver dysfunction because of intrahepatocyte lipid accumulation. We report a 7-wk-old infant who was admitted with neonatal cholestasis, and who was diagnosed with a novel homozygous stop-gain variant in NPC1 by rapid whole-genome sequencing (WGS). WGS results were obtained 16 d before return of the standard clinical genetic test results and prompted initiation of targeted therapy.
Enabling healthy food choices in the workplace: the canteen operators’ perspective
Authors: Price Sarah , Bray Jeffery , Brown Lorraine
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Employees eat regularly in workplace foodservice settings, thus the food served can significantly impact their overall diet. Workplace foodservice providers are facing several challenges, including changing consumer demands, partial blame for high levels of obesity and the delivery of accessible information that can encourage healthier food choices. The purpose of this paper is to explore the industry perspective on consumer information needs and to assess the challenges faced by foodservice providers in terms of responding to these in a workplace setting.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was adopted, involving ten in-depth semi-structured interviews with contract catering managers in the UK and Germany.

Findings

Canteen operators have a sound understanding of what is important to their customers. However, the amount of dish information currently provided is limited, and the reasons for this are discussed. The menu remains the traditional medium of communication of information on dishes, but there is openness to technical platforms, which not only reduce information overload but also increase customer engagement.

Practical implications

Technological solutions are discussed as a way to overcome barriers to information provision providing workplace caterers with a clear approach to effectively communicate enhanced dish information.

Social implications

The provision of enhanced dish information has been found to influence consumers’ to make more healthful selections. This is an important public health issue given the growing rates of obesity and diabetes type 2.

Originality/value

This study makes an original contribution by exploring the industry perspective on consumer needs for information and on how this information can be provided.
Does more energy consumption support economic growth in net energy-importing countries?
Authors: Esen Ömer , Bayrak Metin
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects of energy consumption on economic growth by means of a panel data analysis of 75 net energy-importing countries for the period 1990 to 2012.

Design/methodology/approach

For the purpose of the analysis, the countries are classified into two groups, and each group is then classified into subgroups. The first group is formed based on the energy import dependence of the countries and is classified into two subgroups according to whether their dependence is greater than or less than 50 per cent. The second group is formed based on the income level of the countries and is classified into four subgroups, specifically, low-income economies, lower-middle-income economies, upper-middle-income economies and high-income economies.

Findings

The findings obtained for both panel data and for each country indicate that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between energy consumption and economic growth over the long term such that energy consumption contributes more to economic growth as the import dependence of the country decreases. Moreover, the effect of energy consumption on economic growth decreases as the income level of the country increases. This indicates that the efficient use of energy is as important as energy consumption, which is regarded as an important indicator of economic development.

Originality/value

The authors expect that these findings will make a valuable contribution to the results of future studies, as they analyze the relationships among the variables by including the energy intensities of the countries.
Building police legitimacy in a high demand environment: the case of Yukon, Canada
Authors: Taylor Griffiths Curt , Clark Peter
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Police legitimacy has emerged as a core concept in the study of twenty-first century policing. The purpose of this paper is to contribute new knowledge by examining the dynamics surrounding policing legitimacy in a high demand environment in Northern Canada.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was used to explore the historical and contemporary factors that contributed to the challenges surrounding the police-First Nations relations, how these challenges affected public confidence in, and trust of, the police, and how the communities, police, and government took action to address these issues.

Findings

The findings reveal that it is possible for the police, First Nations, and government in high demand environments to implement reforms and to create the foundation for police-community collaboration. The development of relationships based on trust and a continuing dialogue is important components in building police legitimacy.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in one northern jurisdiction. The findings may apply to other jurisdictions where the police are involved in policing indigenous peoples.

Practical implications

The case study provides insight into the processes required to fundamentally alter the police-First Nations relations, to improve police service delivery in high demand environments, and to ensure that reforms are sustained.

Originality/value

Police legitimacy has been examined primarily in urban environments where police services have considerable capacities and there re-extensive networks of support from various agencies and organizations. The dynamics of policing in northern communities are appreciably different and present challenges as well as opportunities for improving police legitimacy.
The FgSRP1 SR‐protein gene is important for plant infection and pre‐mRNA processing in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Zhang Yimei , Gao Xuli , Sun Manli , Liu Huiquan , Xu Jin‐Rong
Published: June 2017

The versatile functions of SR (serine/arginine‐rich) proteins in pre‐mRNA splicing and processing are modulated by reversible phosphorylation. Previous studies showed that FgPrp4, the only protein kinase among spliceosome components, is important for intron splicing and the FgSrp1 SR protein is phosphorylated at five conserved sites in Fusarium graminearum. In this study, we showed that the Fgsrp1 deletion mutant rarely produced conidia and caused only limited symptoms on wheat heads and corn silks. Deletion of FgSRP1 also reduced ascospore ejection and deoxynivalenol (DON) production. Interestingly, FgSRP1 had two transcript isoforms due to alternative splicing and both of them were required for its normal functions in growth and DON biosynthesis. FgSrp1 localized to the nucleus and interacted with FgPrp4 in vivo. Deletion of all four conserved phosphorylation sites but not individual ones affected the FgSRP1 function, suggesting their overlapping functions. RNA‐seq analysis showed that the expression of over thousands of genes and splicing efficiency in over 140 introns were affected. Taken together, FgSRP1 is important for conidiation, and pathogenesis and alternative splicing is important for its normal functions. The FgSrp1 SR protein is likely important for pre‐mRNA processing or splicing of various genes in different developmental and infection processes.
Identification and occurrence of the hydroxamate siderophores aerobactin, putrebactin, avaroferrin and ochrobactin C as virulence factors from entomopathogenic bacteria
Authors: Hirschmann Merle , Grundmann Florian , Bode Helge B.
Published: June 2017

Effective iron acquisition and fine‐tuned intracellular iron storage systems are the main prerequisites for a successful host invasion by a pathogen. Bacteria have developed several different strategies to sequester this essential element from their environment, one relies on the secretion of low molecular weight compounds with high affinity for ferric iron, the so‐called siderophores. Here, we report hydroxamate siderophore structures produced by entomopathogenic bacteria of the species Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus, which are known for their potential to produce bioactive natural products, required for their role as nematode symbiont and insect pathogen. Four siderophores could be identified, namely aerobactin, putrebactin, avaroferrin and ochrobactin C, which was found previously only in marine bacteria. While the putrebactin and avaroferrin producing biosynthesis gene cluster (BGC) is more widespread and most likely was present in a common ancestor of these bacteria, the aerobactin and ochrobactin producing BGC was probably taken up by a few strains individually. For aerobactin a role in virulence towards Galleria mellonella larvae is shown.
The Piwi‐piRNA pathway: road to immortality
Authors: Sturm Ádám , Perczel András , Ivics Zoltán , Vellai Tibor
Published: June 2017

Despite its medical, social, and economic significance, understanding what primarily causes aging, that is, the mechanisms of the aging process, remains a fundamental and fascinating problem in biology. Accumulating evidence indicates that a small RNA‐based gene regulatory machinery, the Piwi‐piRNA pathway, represents a shared feature of nonaging (potentially immortal) biological systems, including the germline, somatic cancer stem cells, and certain ‘lower’ eukaryotic organisms like the planarian flatworm and freshwater hydra. The pathway primarily functions to repress the activity of mobile genetic elements, also called transposable elements (TEs) or ‘jumping genes’, which are capable of moving from one genomic locus to another, thereby causing insertional mutations. TEs become increasingly active and multiply in the genomes of somatic cells as the organism ages. These characteristics of TEs highlight their decisive mutagenic role in the progressive disintegration of genetic information, a molecular hallmark associated with aging. Hence, TE‐mediated genomic instability may substantially contribute to the aging process.
Management of pancreaticojejunal strictures after pancreaticoduodenectomy: clinical experience and review of literature
Authors: Ghazanfar Mudassar A. , Soonawalla Zahir , Silva Michael A. , Reddy Srikanth
Published: June 2017

Background

Symptomatic pancreaticojejunal anastomotic stricture (PJS) is a rare complication following pancreaticoduodenectomy. The incidence, presentation and management of this condition are infrequently reported in the literature. Revision surgery is thought to be an effective treatment. Recent literature shows some success from endoscopic management.

Methods

The patients treated for symptomatic PJS from January 2005 to June 2014 were identified. Their clinical presentation and management was retrospectively reviewed. Patients were followed up in clinic or by telephonic interviews to assess their symptoms.

Results

Three patients (two females and one male) had symptomatic PJS out of 314 who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (0.9%). Main presentating symptom was intermittent abdominal pain. The diagnosis was confirmed by computed tomography scan and/or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. One patient underwent a failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography attempt to dilate the stricture. A redo‐pancreaticojejunostomy was performed in all patients. At a mean follow‐up of 8 months, two patients had complete resolution of symptoms and one patient had partial benefit. Five out of seven case series in literature support surgical management.

Conclusion

Symptomatic PJS can be successfully treated with redo‐pancreaticojejunostomy, with good medium‐term outcomes. Although endoscopic intervention has been described, review of the literature shows that success rates are low and the long‐term results are unknown.
Distinction and the Ethics of Violence: On the Legal Construction of Liminal Subjects and Spaces
Authors: Perugini Nicola , Gordon Neve
Published: July 2017

This paper interrogates the relationship among visibility, distinction, international humanitarian law and ethics in contemporary theatres of violence. After introducing the notions of “civilianization of armed conflict” and “battlespaces”, we briefly discuss the evisceration of one of international humanitarian law's axiomatic figures: the civilian. We show how liberal militaries have created an apparatus of distinction that expands that which is perceptible by subjecting big data to algorithmic analysis, combining the traditional humanist lens with a post‐humanist one. The apparatus functions before, during, and after the fray not only as an operational technology that directs the fighting or as a discursive mechanism responsible for producing the legal and ethical interpretation of hostilities, but also as a force that produces liminal subjects. Focusing on two legal figures—“enemies killed in action” and “human shields”—we show how the apparatus helps justify killing civilians and targeting civilian spaces during war.
D‐512, a novel dopamine D2/3 receptor agonist, demonstrates greater anti‐Parkinsonian efficacy than ropinirole in Parkinsonian rats
Authors: Lindenbach David , Das Banibrata , Conti Melissa M , Meadows Samantha M , Dutta Aloke K , Bishop Christopher
Published: July 2017

Background and Purpose

Symptoms of Parkinson's disease are commonly managed using selective dopamine D2/3 receptor agonists, including ropinirole. While D2/3 agonists are useful in early‐stage Parkinson's disease, they tend to lose efficacy in later disease stages and do not appear to modify disease progression. We have recently developed a novel ‘multifunctional’ compound, D‐512: a high‐affinity D2/3 receptor agonist with antioxidant and other neuroprotective properties that may limit Parkinson's disease progression. This study sought to compare the anti‐Parkinsonian properties of the clinically used compound, ropinirole, with those of the novel compound, D‐512.

Experimental Approach

A rat model of Parkinson's disease was created by unilaterally infusing 6‐hydroxydopamine, a dopamine neurotoxin, into the medial forebrain bundle. D‐512 was compared with ropinirole for ability to stimulate spontaneous motor activity and reverse Parkinsonian akinesia. These beneficial effects were compared against each drug's liability to provoke dyskinesia, a common motor side effect.

Key Results

Both compounds increased spontaneous movement, but D‐512 showed a longer duration of action. Only D‐512 was able to significantly reverse forelimb akinesia. Drug‐induced dyskinesia was similar for equivalent doses.

Conclusions and Implications

Compared with ropinirole, D‐512 showed greater peak‐dose efficacy and a longer duration of action, despite a similar side‐effect profile. Our results add to earlier data showing that D‐512 is superior to available D2/3 agonists and could merit clinical investigation.
Translating advances in the molecular basis of schizophrenia into novel cognitive treatment strategies
Authors: O'Tuathaigh Colm M P , Moran Paula M , Zhen Xuechu C , Waddington John L
Published: July 2017

The presence and severity of cognitive symptoms, including working memory, executive dysfunction and attentional impairment, contributes materially to functional impairment in schizophrenia. Cognitive symptoms have proved to be resistant to both first‐ and second‐generation antipsychotic drugs. Efforts to develop a consensus set of cognitive domains that are both disrupted in schizophrenia and are amenable to cross‐species validation (e.g. the National Institute of Mental Health Cognitive Neuroscience Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia and Research Domain Criteria initiatives) are an important step towards standardization of outcome measures that can be used in preclinical testing of new drugs. While causative genetic mutations have not been identified, new technologies have identified novel genes as well as hitherto candidate genes previously implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and/or mechanisms of antipsychotic efficacy. This review comprises a selective summary of these developments, particularly phenotypic data arising from preclinical genetic models for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia, with the aim of indicating potential new directions for pro‐cognitive therapeutics.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of Cognition: a Panacea for Neuropsychiatric Disease? To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.19/issuetoc
Influence of EGCG on α‐synuclein (αS) aggregation and identification of their possible binding mode: A computational study using molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Liu Xuewei , Zhou Shuangyan , Shi Danfeng , Bai Qifeng , Liu Huanxiang , Yao Xiaojun
Published: July 2017

The accumulation of intrinsically disordered α‐synuclein (αS) protein that can form β‐sheet‐rich fibrils is linked to Parkinson's disease. (−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant active component in green tea and can inhibit the fibrillation of αS. The elucidation of this molecular mechanism will be helpful to understand the inhibition mechanism of EGCG to the fibrillation of αS and also to find more potential small molecules that can inhibit the aggregation of αS. In this work, to study the influence of EGCG on the structure of β‐sheet‐rich fibrils of αS and identification of their possible binding mode, molecular dynamics simulations of pentamer and decamer aggregates of αS in complex with EGCG were performed. The obtained results indicate that EGCG can remodel the αS fibrils and break the initial ordered pattern by reducing the β‐sheet content. EGCG can also break the Greek conformation of αS by the disappeared H‐bond in the secondary structure of turn. The results from our study can not only reveal the specific interaction between EGCG and β‐sheet‐rich fibrils of αS, but also provide the useful guidance for the discovery of other potential inhibitors.
Synthesis and evaluation of novel thiazole‐based derivatives as selective inhibitors of DNA‐binding domain of the androgen receptor
Authors: Xu Ruixue , Tian Ye , Huang Shenzhen , Yu Jiang , Deng Yufang , Zhan Miao , Zhang Tao , Wang Fangying , Zhao Lifeng , Chen Yuanwei
Published: July 2017

A series of thiazole‐based inhibitors selectively targeting DNA‐binding domain of the androgen receptor (AR) were synthesized and evaluated, and the SAR data were summarized. We identified a novel compound SKLB‐C2807 that effectively inhibited the human prostate cancer cell line LNCaP/AR with the IC50 value of 0.38 μm without significant antiproliferative effects on other cell lines PC‐3 (AR‐negative), SW620, MCF‐7 (ER‐positive), and L‐O2 (non‐cancerous). This compound also considerably decreased the expression of prostate‐specific antigen. Its binding mode to the AR‐DBD was studied. These efforts lay the foundation for developing the next generation of anti‐androgens.
Politics of innovation and development: The role of industry associations in integrating political, bureaucratic, industrial and health systems in India and South Africa
Authors: Papaioannou Theo , Watkins Andrew , Kale Dinar , Mugwagwa Julius
Published: June 2017

Integrating political, bureaucratic, industrial and healthcare systems has been a major challenge for politics of innovation and development policy in low‐ and middle‐income countries. This challenge has so far been understood in terms of separate industrial and health‐related innovation policies without paying adequate attention to the institutional roles of biopharmaceutical and other umbrella associations. This article seeks to examine such roles in the developmental contexts of South Africa and India. The argument put forward is that, in both countries, biopharmaceutical and umbrella associations have evolved from lobbying organizations to institutional partners who influence the politics of innovation and development—and therefore the degree of integration and fragmentation—of political, bureaucratic, industrial innovation and health systems.