bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metagenomic analysis of soil samples collected from estuarine mangroves of Arabian Sea reveals rich microbiota and high numbers of sulphate reducing bacteria accompanied with methanogen bacteria
Authors: Paingankar Mandar S. , Deobagkar Deepti D.
Published: August 2019

This study reports the analyses of the microbiome of the estuarine soil of mangroves of the Arabian Sea. Mangroves soil samples were collected from 12 locations of Arabian Sea coast of Maharashtra, India. 16S rRNA gene V3–V4 region amplicon sequencing was performed using the Miseq Illumina platform to identify the microbial communities present in the mangroves ecosystem. The metagenomics analysis provided an insight into the abundance, diversity and spatial variations in the mangrove microbial communities in relation to physico-chemical parameters and revealed that Proteobacteria, Flavobacteria and Planctomycetes are abundant in mangroves system. The differences in bacterial abundance, composition and diversity can partly be attributed to the physico-chemical characteristics of the samples, geographical location and anthropogenic activities in the locality. High numbers of sulphate reducing bacteria accompanied with methanogen bacteria were characteristic of Indian mangroves. The results obtained in the current study indicate rich species diversity and add valuable insights about the diversity of microbial communities of the mangroves in Maharashtra along the west coast of India and can provide better information for effective measures for conservation of mangroves. GIS based prediction suggest that the sulphur utilizing communities are under threat from anthropogenic activities and may decline in future if immediate measures are not implemented.
Dynamic coupling of cochlear inner hair cell intrinsic Ca2+action potentials to Ca2+signaling of non-sensory cells
Authors: Ceriani Federico , Johnson Stuart L. , Sedlacek Miloslav , Hendry Aenea , Kachar Bechara , Marcotti Walter , Mammano Fabio
Published: August 2019

The relationship between Ca2+action potential (AP) activity in immature inner hair cells (IHCs) and the spontaneous ATP-dependent intercellular Ca2+signaling in cochlear non-sensory cells (NSCs) of the greater epithelial ridge (GER) is unclear. Here, we determined that IHCs fired asynchronous Ca2+APs also in the absence of Ca2+activity in the GER. Patch clamp recordings from IHCs isolated from the rest of the sensory epithelium confirmed that this firing activity is an intrinsic property of immature IHCs. However, frequency, correlation index and burst duration of IHC APs increased significantly during Ca2+wave propagation in NSCs, and depended on wave extension in the GER. Furthermore, IHC depolarization under whole cell patch clamp conditions triggered Ca2+signals in nearby NSCs with a delay that was proportional to the distance from the stimulated IHC. Thus the immature mammalian cochlea supports bidirectional exchange of Ca2+signals between IHCs and NSCs.

IMPACT STATEMENT

In inner hair cells of the developing mammalian cochlea, Ca2+action potentials are both intrinsic and bidirectionally coupled to the ATP-dependent Ca2+signaling of the surrounding non-sensory cells.
The finger 2 tip loop of Activin A is required for the formation of its non-signaling complex with ACVR1 and type II Bone Morphogenetic Protein receptors
Authors: Aykul Senem , Corpina Richard A. , Goebel Erich J. , Cunanan Camille J. , Dimitriou Alexandra , Kim Hyonjong , Zhang Qian , Rafique Ashique , Leidich Raymond , Wang Xin , McClain Joyce , Jimenez Johanna , Nannuru Kalyan C. , Rothman Nyanza J. , Lees-Shepard John B. , Martinez-Hackert Erik , Murphy Andrew J. , Thompson Thomas B. , Economides Aris N. , Idone Vincent
Published: August 2019

Activin A functions in BMP signaling in two ways: it either engages ACVR1B to activate Smad2/3 signaling or binds ACVR1 to form a non-signaling complex (NSC). Although the former property has been studied extensively, the roles of the NSC remain unexplored. The genetic disorder fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) provides a unique window into ACVR1/Activin A signaling because in that disease Activin can either signal through FOP-mutant ACVR1 or form NSCs with wild type ACVR1. To explore the role of the NSC, we generated ‘agonist-only’ Activin A muteins that activate ACVR1B but cannot form the NSC with ACVR1. Using one of these muteins we demonstrate that failure to form the NSC in FOP results in more severe disease pathology. These results provide the first evidence for a biological role for the NSC in vivo and pave the way for further exploration of the NSC’s physiological role in corresponding knock-in mice.

Impact Statement

The non-signaling complex formed by Activin A and ACVR1 is operant in vivo and is required to temper the degree of heterotopic ossification in the genetic disorder fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva.
Job insecurity and performance over time: the critical role of job insecurity duration
Authors: Debus Maike E. , Unger Dana , König Cornelius J.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Research on the relationship between job insecurity and job performance has thus far yielded inconclusive results. The purpose of this paper is to offer a more dynamic perspective on the effects of job insecurity on job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from cognitive appraisal theory, research on critical life events, and stress reactions as well as more general theorizing around the role of time, this paper proposes that individuals’ job performance reactions to job insecurity will be dynamic over time.

Findings

Adopting a person-centered perspective, this paper suggests that there are seven subpopulations that differ in their intra-individual job performance change patterns over time.

Research limitations/implications

This paper presents potential predictors of subpopulation membership and presents an agenda for future research.

Originality/value

We contribute to the literature by introducing a dynamic perspective to the study of job performance in the context of job insecurity. Delineating a set of open questions that follow from the presented theoretical arguments, the authors also hope to stimulate future research in the context of job insecurity and job performance.
Efficient uncertainty propagation for MAPOD via polynomial chaos-based Kriging
Authors: Du Xiaosong , Leifsson Leifur
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Model-assisted probability of detection (MAPOD) is an important approach used as part of assessing the reliability of nondestructive testing systems. The purpose of this paper is to apply the polynomial chaos-based Kriging (PCK) metamodeling method to MAPOD for the first time to enable efficient uncertainty propagation, which is currently a major bottleneck when using accurate physics-based models.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the state-of-the-art Kriging, polynomial chaos expansions (PCE) and PCK are applied to “a^ vs a”-based MAPOD of ultrasonic testing (UT) benchmark problems. In particular, Kriging interpolation matches the observations well, while PCE is capable of capturing the global trend accurately. The proposed UP approach for MAPOD using PCK adopts the PCE bases as the trend function of the universal Kriging model, aiming at combining advantages of both metamodels.

Findings

To reach a pre-set accuracy threshold, the PCK method requires 50 per cent fewer training points than the PCE method, and around one order of magnitude fewer than Kriging for the test cases considered. The relative differences on the key MAPOD metrics compared with those from the physics-based models are controlled within 1 per cent.

Originality/value

The contributions of this work are the first application of PCK metamodel for MAPOD analysis, the first comparison between PCK with the current state-of-the-art metamodels for MAPOD and new MAPOD results for the UT benchmark cases.
The sharing economy ideal
Authors: Bhappu Anita D. , Schultze Ulrike
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Bridging noted gaps in the sharing economy and corporate social responsibility (CSR) literatures, the purpose of this paper is to investigate how an organization-sponsored sharing platform – a new class of information technology (IT) and the sharing economy ideal – is given meaning as a CSR program for internal stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involves phone interviews conducted with site coordinators of the Zimride by Enterprise® ridesharing platform in 25 organizations.

Findings

This case study reveals that two component processes of organizational sensemaking – sensegiving and sensebreaking – are underlying micromechanisms used by organizations to enact a sponsored sharing platform as a CSR program. Qualitative analyses demonstrate that every meaning given to Zimride remained open to sensebreaking during its implementation. As such, site coordinators were continuously drawn into sensemaking about Zimride’s cognitive, linguistic and conative dimensions as a CSR program and had to exert ongoing effort to stabilize its socially (re)constructed meaning within their organization. Furthermore, site coordinators’ sensegiving narrative about Zimride was often undermined by their sensebreaking communications and organizational actions, albeit unintentionally.

Research limitations/implications

Sponsoring a sharing platform to facilitate collaborative consumption can deliver triple bottom line benefits for both organizations and their members, but it may not. The key to accruing this potential shared value lies is how site coordinators navigate organizational sensemaking about these IT-enabled CSR programs.

Originality/value

This paper provides valuable insights into these sensemaking processes and develops a prescriptive framework for enacting an organization-sponsored sharing platform as a CSR program.
Unripe banana flour (Musa cavendishii) promotes decrease in weight gain and elimination of fecal cholesterol in Wistar rats
Authors: Escobar Amanda , Rocha-Gomes Arthur , Reis Clarisse Giovana Maciel dos , Herrera Kiara Nubia Silva , Guedes Tiago de Jesus , Silva Alexandre Alves da , Lessa Mayara Rodrigues , Dessimoni-Pinto Nísia Andrade Villela , Riul Tania Regina
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the chemical composition of unripe banana flour from Southeast Brazil and verify its nutritional, physiological and biochemical properties in adult Wistar rats.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH, moisture, ash, lipids, proteins, carbohydrate, resistant and total starch and energy was obtained. In all, 18 male Wistar rats were given different concentrations of unripe banana flour (0, 10 and 20 per cent) and these assessments were performed: feed, caloric and water intake; weight gain; coefficient of food efficiency; weight of organs; body, tibia and femur length; total mineral of bones; and biochemistry of blood, hepatic fluids and feces.

Findings

Unripe banana flour showed a potential for weight control as well as increased fecal cholesterol excretion. These results showed the potential of unripe banana flour for obesity treatment and lipid excretion. Nevertheless, plasma triacylglycerol levels increased in the animals that received the largest amount of banana flour (20 per cent w/w), possibly because of the large amount of resistant starch in the flour, indicating the need for additional studies to confirm the mechanisms responsible for this increase.

Originality/value

Unripe banana flour may promote beneficial health effects (such as weight control and increased elimination of cholesterol in feces); however, the large amount of resistant starch present may be responsible for an increase in blood triacyglycerol.
Direct and indirect effects of invasive species: Biodiversity loss is a major mechanism by which an invasive tree affects ecosystem functioning
Authors: Linders Theo Edmund Werner , Schaffner Urs , Eschen René , Abebe Anteneh , Choge Simon Kevin , Nigatu Lisanework , Mbaabu Purity Rima , Shiferaw Hailu , Allan Eric
Published: August 2019

Global change, such as exotic invasions, dramatically affects ecosystem functioning. However, the mechanisms behind the impacts are often unclear and despite extensive experimental work, we know little about the importance of biodiversity loss as a component of global change effects in real‐world ecosystems.

We disentangled several mechanisms by which an exotic invader affected ecosystem functioning in East African drylands in Kenya and Ethiopia. We used structural equation modelling to separate direct effects of a woody invaderProsopis julifloraon a range of ecosystem functions from indirect effects mediated through changes in biodiversity (plant species richness) and ecosystem functioning (herbaceous biomass). We analysed effects on ecosystem functions linked to soil biogeochemical cycling and transfer of energy between trophic levels.

We found that the mean size of individual indirect effects mediated by biodiversity and herbaceous biomass was about twice as large as the mean size of individual direct effects ofProsopison ecosystem functions, showing that indirect effects are an important component of the invader’s overall environmental impacts. Changes in both herbaceous biomass and biodiversity were approximately equally important as drivers of indirect effects, indicating that we need to expand our view of indirect effects to consider a wider range of mechanisms. Simple univariate models failed to capture someProsopisinvader effects because positive direct effects on soil stability and predatory invertebrates were counteracted by negative indirect effects on biodiversity or biomass loss. The majority of effects were similar in both study systems. Suggestions that woody invaders are able to increase certain ecosystem functions may therefore have arisen because these negative indirect effects were not considered.

Synthesis. Our study indicates that successful management of exotic invasions is likely to require not only control of the invader but also restoration of diverse and productive herbaceous communities as they are important for many ecosystem functions. This highlights the importance of biodiversity as a driver of ecosystem functioning also in real‐world systems.
Breeding system and bird pollination of Camellia pubipetala, a narrowly endemic plant from karst regions of south China
Authors: Chai Sheng‐Feng , Chen Zong‐You , Tang Jian‐Min , Wang Man‐Lian , Zou Rong , Wei Xiao
Published: August 2019

Camellia pubipetala is an endemic and endangered species with small and isolated populations occurring only in karst regions in Guangxi of south China. To understand the reproductive biology of C. pubipetala and its possible influences upon its endangered status, its breeding system and pollination ecology were studied in the Longhushan (LHS) and Longzhao (LZ) populations of this species. The flowering duration of the C. pubipetala populations spanned from late January to early April and anthesis of a single flower usually lasted 5–7 days. This species is homogamous, and the pollen and stigma are viable throughout anthesis. Each bagged flower could secrete 141.5 μL of nectar at a sugar concentration of 25.0% during anthesis. The observed high pollen/ovule ratio, and the results of hand‐pollination experiments indicated that this species obligately outcrosses. Open pollination resulted in a significantly decreased fruit set (6.7%) and seed set (38.9%) compared to supplementary pollination treatment (23.3% and 64.7%, respectively), which is indicative of a pollen limitation in the process of pollination. The primary pollinator of C. pubipetala is the sunbird Aethopyga christinae and its visiting frequency is quite low, whereas the honeybee Apis cerana is only an occasional pollinator in wild populations. Low reproductive rates in C. pubipetala were found to be a consequence of few species of pollinators and their low visiting frequency. Pollen limitation may be a crucial factor that contributes to the endangered nature of this species. Artificial pollination and the release of pollinators are effective ways to increase the fruit and seed yield of this species.
Oblique views of chest radiography from a designed rotation angle recommendation increase the contrast ratio between obscured lesions and surrounding structures
Authors: Lin Hui‐Chen , Huang Chung‐Yao , Huang Wei‐Ming , Jhou Zong‐Yi , Chen Chia‐Hung , Chien Yu‐Chan , Huang Chun‐Chao
Published: August 2019

Background

Chest radiography (CXR) is the main tool used to detect pulmonary nodules. Lateral views of CXR are less effective and the aim of our study was to develop a rotation angle recommendation model to obtain the best oblique CXR with significantly increased contrast between lesions and surrounding normal structures in order to enhance the detection rate for potential obscured lesions on traditional posterior and anterior (PA) CXR.

Methods

A total of 140 subjects receiving low‐dose lung computed tomography (CT) screening were enrolled from the health check‐up database. An additional 14 cases with lung lesions on chest CT were included. Demography was also reviewed. Gross, left and right cardiothoracic ratios (CTR) were measured. All CT images were transformed to CXR to detect the best rotation angles and produce different views of CXR. Contrast ratio was calculated in the transformed CXR from CT with lesions. Comparison of contrast ratio among oblique, posterior‐anterior and lateral views was performed.

Results

CXR shows smaller gross CTR and left CTR but larger heart width and thoracic width in men than in women. Correlation evaluation displays gross CTR, heart width and left CTR are positively correlated with age only for the women group. The most important factor for the best rotation angle is right CTR for left rotation angle and left CTR for right rotation angle. The contrast ratio of the lesion to surrounding structures is significantly better on the oblique views in the designed angles than that on the traditional views.

Conclusion

CXR oblique views in the assigned angle from the 10‐degree rotation angle recommendation are able to enhance contrast ratio between the possible obscured lesions and surrounding structures on CXR.
Analysing the dynamics and relative influence of variables affecting ecosystem responses using functional PCA and boosted regression trees: A seagrass case study
Authors: Wu Paul Pao‐Yen , Mengersen Kerrie , Caley M. Julian , McMahon Kathryn , Rasheed Michael A. , Kendrick Gary A.
Published: August 2019

Understanding the relative influence of variables on ecosystem responses and the dynamics of their effect is necessary for effective ecosystem monitoring and management. Also known as causal pathways analysis, we develop an approach using functional Principal Components Analysis (fPCA) and machine learning within a scenario analysis framework.

fPCA is used to identify most influential variables for correlated, non‐homogenoeus and nonlinear time series data characteristic of complex ecosystems. Hierarchical clustering of fPCA scores reveals groups of more homogeneous scenarios and similarly influential variables. The resultant subset of variables helps to overcome model identifiability problems when analysing time‐lagged effects using Boosted Regression Trees (BRT).

We use simulated data generated by a Dynamic Bayesian Network (DBN) of ecological windows for seagrass ecosystems given dredging stressors; 3,024 scenarios with 75 state variables are analysed. The BRT demonstrated a high level of fit (), supporting the validity of influential variables identified by fPCA. Influential variables identified included genus, location type, light, growth and seed. Six consecutive months of positive growth and adequate light were important for predicting states of high or moderate population.

Compared to traditional scenario analysis and sensitivity analysis approaches, our approach simultaneously enabled capture of n‐way interactions while accounting for time correlations. Although some variables and their dynamics agreed with existing knowledge, new variables and/or time lags of their effects were identified, corresponding to opportunities for further investigation as well as informing monitoring and management. Although we demonstrate our method on state variables with DBN simulated data, it is equally applicable to general time series data.
Who monitors opaque borrowers? Debt specialisation, institutional ownership, and information opacity
Authors: Platikanova Petya , Soonawalla Kazbi
Published: August 2019

In this study, we suggest that the level of information opaqueness determines the propensity of publicly listed firms to have debt financing from only a few debt types (i.e., debt specialisation). Using accruals quality as a proxy for information opaqueness, we find that the degree of debt specialisation is lower for firms with high‐quality accruals. This result is consistent with the notion that information collection and monitoring costs are higher for firms that have higher informational opacity, explaining the tendency towards debt specialisation. We further argue that creditors need not monitor borrowers so closely when they are monitored by institutional owners. The empirical findings support this argument and show that firms with more stable institutional ownership are likely to have less specialised debt types. The empirical evidence is also consistent with the expectation that stable institutional ownership is likely to reduce the demand for monitoring over accruals management. Using S&P 500 membership as an exogenous event driving institutional ownership changes, we further document that debt specialisation is decreasing in accruals quality when institutional investors are expected to have an influence.
Adding quality to quantity in randomized controlled trials of addiction prevention and treatment: a new framework to facilitate the integration of qualitative research
Authors: Maher Lisa , Neale Joanne
Published: August 2019

Background and aims

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are important for evaluating interventions, and qualitative research is increasingly recognized as being crucial to the success of this enterprise. We aimed to describe and demonstrate a temporal parallel purpose framework to help researchers understand how to make optimum use of qualitative research before, during and after RCTs. This framework sets out specific rationales for conducting qualitative research at each stage of a trial, where the rationales presented relate to both the intervention and evaluation methodology.

Method and results

We conducted a scoping review of published qualitative studies undertaken alongside RCTs focusing on illicit drug use. We then used the temporal parallel purpose framework to present key findings to demonstrate how qualitative studies can add value to addiction RCTs by enhancing understanding of the intervention being trialled and/or the RCT itself. In so doing, we highlight the missed opportunities for addiction science when qualitative research is overlooked. We also explain why barriers to combining qualitative research and RCTs are neither inevitable nor insurmountable.

Conclusions

The temporal parallel purpose framework provides a tool for assessing when and why to combine qualitative research with addiction treatment and prevention RCTs. Our paper and framework can help researchers formulate key questions that qualitative research can address. This can potentially save resources by reducing the number of poorly designed interventions and trials and prevent morbidity, mortality, and other addiction‐related harms by facilitating the identification and implementation of interventions that are most likely to be effective.
Therapist and computer‐based brief interventions for drug use within a randomized controlled trial: effects on parallel trajectories of alcohol use, cannabis use and anxiety symptoms
Authors: Drislane Laura E. , Waller Rebecca , Martz Meghan E. , Bonar Erin E. , Walton Maureen A. , Chermack Stephen T. , Blow Frederic C.
Published: August 2019

Background and Aims

Despite their high comorbidity, the effects of brief interventions (BI) to reduce cannabis use, alcohol use and anxiety symptoms have received little empirical attention. The aims of this study were to examine whether a therapist‐delivered BI (TBI) or computer‐guided BI (CBI) to address drug use, alcohol consumption (when relevant) and HIV risk behaviors, relative to enhanced usual care (EUC), was associated with reductions in parallel trajectories of alcohol use, cannabis use and anxiety symptoms, and whether demographic characteristics moderated reductions over time.

Design

Latent growth curve modeling was used to examine joint trajectories of alcohol use, cannabis use and anxiety symptoms assessed at 3, 6 and 12 months after baseline enrollment.

Setting

Hurley Medical Center Emergency Department (ED) in Flint, MI, USA.

Participants

The sample was 780 drug‐using adults (aged 18–60 years; 44% male; 52% black) randomly assigned to receive either a TBI, CBI or EUC through the HealthiER You study.

Interventions and comparator

ED‐delivered TBI and CBIs involved touchscreen‐delivered and audio‐assisted content. The TBI was administered by a Master's‐level therapist, whereas the CBI was self‐administered using a virtual health counselor. EUC included a review of health resources brochures in the ED.

Measurements

Assessments of alcohol use (10‐item Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test), cannabis use (past 30‐day frequency) and anxiety symptoms (Brief Symptom Inventory‐18) occurred at baseline and 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up.

Findings

TBI, relative to EUC, was associated with significant reductions in cannabis use [B = –0.49, standard error (SE) = 0.20, P < 0.05) and anxiety (B = –0.04, SE = 0.02, P < 0.05), but no main effect for alcohol use. Two of 18 moderation tests were significant: TBI significantly reduced alcohol use among males (B = –0.60, SE = 0.19, P < 0.01) and patients aged 18–25 years in the TBI condition showed significantly greater reductions in cannabis use relative to older patients (B = –0.78, SE = 0.31, P < 0.05). Results for CBI were non‐significant.

Conclusions

Emergency department‐based therapist‐delivered brief interventions to address drug use, alcohol consumption (when relevant) and HIV risk behaviors may also reduce alcohol use, cannabis use and anxiety over time, accounting for the overlap of these processes.
Experiences of (Dis)Unity: Students’ Negotiation of Ethnic and National Identities in Botswana Schools
Authors: Mulimbi Bethany , Dryden‐Peterson Sarah
Published: August 2019

This study examines how students of majority and minority ethnic backgrounds in Botswana understand national identity as inclusive of their ethnic groups. Within assimilationist policies and curriculum, we find that the value of national identity rests on its positioning as a path toward higher levels of education and employment. However, for ethnic minority students, enacting this national identity requires sacrifice of other desired dimensions of a future good life, including ethnic identity.
Estimation of appendicular skeletal muscle: Development and validation of anthropometric prediction equations in Chinese patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Wu Peng , Chen Li , Jin Jianfeng , Zhang Yiou , Su Chenxian , Wu Congcong , Lang Junzhe , Chen Lei , Jin Keke
Published: August 2019

Objective

To develop anthropometric prediction equations for estimating appendicular skeletal muscle (ASM) in Chinese knee osteoarthritis patients.

Methods

Subjects were divided into the model development group (MD group: 104 cases, 47 men and 57 women) and cross‐validation group (CV group: 69 cases, 38 men and 31 women). Stepwise multiple linear regression analyses were undertaken in the MD group to identify the best equations. Agreement between the estimated ASM and ASM measured by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) was tested in the CV group.

Results

Two models were developed in the MD group. Validation in the CV group showed that our models (R2 = 0.83 and R2 = 0.90) had a high coefficient of determination. The mean bias of ASM estimated by the two models from the ASM measured by DXA in the CV group showed no significant difference (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

These models could be useful for older Chinese patients with knee osteoarthritis to estimate ASM.
Killing Us Slowly: Pre‐Empting Suicide at a Women’s Hostel in Chennai
Authors: Krishnan Sneha
Published: August 2019

This paper draws on ethnographic research in Chennai to unpack the pre‐emptive logic that shapes anti‐suicide interventions at hostels—dormitories—for college‐going women in this city. Its central contention is that a concern for the production of a presumed future becomes, in hostels, a governmental technology that is used to limit young women’s lifeworlds in the present. These regimes of intervention reinforce the unliveability of attachments, intimacies and affects that popular discourse and scaled‐up demographic narrative associate with the potential for suicide. Building from this, the paper also shows that such regimes engender feelings of suffocation and attrition among the young women who live in hostels. “Being slowly killed”, as they call it, draws attention to suicide not as a spectacular event but as a site where the terms of everyday life are remade.
A linkage and exome study implicates rare variants of KANK4 and CAP2 in bipolar disorder in a multiplex family
Authors: Anjanappa Ram M. , Nayak Sourav , Moily Nagaraj S. , Manduva Vallikiran , Nadella Ravi K. , Viswanath Biju , Reddy Yemmiganur C. J. , Jain Sanjeev , Anand Anuranjan
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder with a complex pattern of inheritance. Although many genetic studies have been conducted on BD, its genetic correlates remain uncertain. This study was aimed at  identifying the genetic underpinnings of the disorder in an Indian family, which has been under comprehensive clinical evaluation and follow‐up for over 12 years.

Methods

We analysed a four‐generation family with several of its members diagnosed for BD employing a combination of genetic linkage and exome analysis.

Results

We obtained suggestive LOD score for a chromosome 1 and a chromosome 6 marker (D1S410; LOD = 3.01, Ө = 0; and D6S289; LOD = 1.58, Ө = 0). Manual haplotyping of the regions encompassing these two markers helped delimit a critical genomic interval of 32.44 Mb (D1S2700‐D1S435; chromosome 1p31.1‐13.2) and another of 10.34 Mb (D6S470‐D6S422; chromosome 6p22.3‐22.2). We examined the exomic sequences corresponding to these two intervals and found rare variants, NM_181712.4: c.2461G>T (p.Asp821Tyr) in KANK4 at 1p31.1‐13.2; and NM_006366:c.‐93G>A, in the 5' UTR of CAP2 at 6p22.3‐22.2.

Conclusions

Our studysuggests involvement of KANK4 or CAP2 or both in BD in this family. Further analysis of these two genes in BD patients and functional evaluation of the allelic variants identified are suggested.
Learning From Others: The Effects of Agency on Event Memory in Young Children
Authors: Howard Lauren H. , Riggins Tracy , Woodward Amanda L.
Published: August 2019

Little is known about the influence of social context on children's event memory. Across four studies, we examined whether learning that could occur in the absence of a person was more robust when a person was present. Three‐year‐old children (N = 125) viewed sequential events that either included or excluded an acting agent. In Experiment 1, children who viewed an agent recalled more than children who did not. Experiments 2a and 2b utilized an eye tracker to demonstrate this effect was not due to differences in attention. Experiment 3 used a combined behavioral and event‐related potential paradigm to show that condition effects were present in memory‐related components. These converging results indicate a particular role for social knowledge in supporting memory for events.
Understanding how consumers with food allergies make decisions based on precautionary labelling
Authors: DunnGalvin Audrey , Roberts Graham , Regent Lynne , Austin Moira , Kenna Fiona , Schnadt Sabine , Sanchez‐Sanz Angel , Hernandez Pilar , Hjorth Bettina , Fernandez‐Rivas Montserrat , Taylor Steve , Baumert Joseph , Sheikh Aziz , Astley Sian , Crevel Rene , Mills Clare
Published: August 2019

Background

Understanding consumer perceptions is crucial if effective food safety policy and risk communication are to be developed and implemented. We sought to understand how those living with food allergy assess risk with precautionary allergen labelling (PAL) and their preference in how risks are communicated within a quantitative risk assessment (QRA) framework.

Methods

The Integrated Approaches to Food Allergen and Allergy Risk Management (iFAAM) labelling online survey was developed for adults and parents of children with food allergy and distributed across Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and UK via patient support groups.

Results

There were 1560 complete responses. ‘This product is not suitable for’ was selected as first choice for PAL by 46% overall and ‘May contain’ was selected as the first choice by 44%. Seventy‐three percent reported that it would improve their trust in a product if a QRA process had been used to make a decision about whether to include ‘may contain’. Overall, 66% reported that a ‘statement + symbol’ on the label indicating a QRA, would help them to understand the risk assessment process that had been used by the food manufacturer.

Conclusions

Consumers want to know what process has actually taken place for the placing of a PAL and/or risk assessment statement on a particular food product. Our findings provide a basis for the development of more informative communication around food allergen risk and safety and support evidence‐based policy‐making in the context of the legislative requirements of the European Union's Food Information for Consumers Regulation.
A novel vaccine platform using glucan particles for induction of protective responses againstFrancisella tularensisand other pathogens
Authors: Abraham A , Ostroff G , Levitz S M , Oyston P C F
Published: August 2019

Vaccines are considered the bedrock of preventive medicine. However, for many pathogens, it has been challenging to develop vaccines that stimulate protective, long-lasting immunity. We have developed a novel approach using β-1,3-D-glucans (BGs), natural polysaccharides abundantly present in fungal cell walls, as a biomaterial platform for vaccine delivery. BGs simultaneously provide for receptor-targeted antigen delivery to specialized antigen-presenting cells together with adjuvant properties to stimulate antigen-specific and trained non-specific immune responses. This review focuses on various approaches of using BG particles (GPs) to develop bacterial and fungal vaccine candidates. A special case history for the development of an effective GP tularaemia vaccine candidate is highlighted.
New risk score of the early period after spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage: For the prediction of delayed cerebral ischemia
Authors: Fang Yuan‐Jian , Mei Shu‐Hao , Lu Jia‐Nan , Chen Yi‐Ke , Chai Zhao‐Hui , Dong Xiao , Araujo Camila , Reis Cesar , Zhang Jian‐Min , Chen Sheng
Published: August 2019

Background and Purpose

The aim of this study is to identify the early predictors for delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) and develop a risk stratification score by focusing on the early change after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).

Methods

The study retrospectively reviewed aSAH patients between 2014 and 2015. Risk factors within 72 hours after aSAH were included into univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis to screen the independent predictors for DCI and to design a risk stratification score.

Results

We analyzed 702 aSAH patients; four predictors were retained from the final multivariable analysis: World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies scale (WFNS; OR = 4.057, P < .001), modified Fisher Scale (mFS; OR = 2.623, P < .001), Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Early Brain Edema Score (SEBES; OR = 1.539, P = .036), and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH; OR = 1.932, P = .002). According to the regression coefficient, we created a risk stratification score ranging from 0 to 7 (WFNS = 3, mFS = 2, SEBES = 1, and IVH = 1). The new score showed a significantly higher area under curve (0.785) compared with other scores (P < .001).

Conclusion

The early DCI score provides a practical method at the early 72 hours after aSAH to predict DCI.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from systemic drugs
Authors: Gilissen Liesbeth , Boeckxstaens Emma , Geebelen Julie , Goossens An
Published: August 2019

Background

Health‐care workers (HCWs) and professionals working in the pharmaceutical industry are at risk of developing occupational allergic contact dermatitis (OACD) from systemic drugs (or drug intermediates).

Objectives

To study demographic characteristics and identify systemic drugs responsible for OACD in patients investigated for contact allergy during the period 2001‐2019.

Methods

In the study period, 9780 patients were patch tested with the European baseline series, sometimes with additional series, and other relevant potential allergens. All patients with a positive patch‐test reaction to systemic medication exposed to at work were included for further analysis.

Results

Of 1248 HCWs examined in our clinic, 201 suffered from OACD. In 26 (13%) dermatitis was caused by skin contact with a systemic drug: 19 nurses, five chemists working in the pharmaceutical industry, one physician, and one veterinarian. In total, 45 positive patch‐test reactions to 20 different systemic drugs were found, with tetrazepam (n = 11), ranitidine hydrochloride (n = 5), and zolpidem (n = 4) being the most frequent. Three pharmaceutical chemists were sensitized to a drug intermediate. The lesions were mostly localized on the hands, but often also on the face, as airborne dermatitis.

Conclusion

As much as 13% of OACD in HCWs, diagnosed in our tertiary referral center, was attributable to systemic drugs, most frequently in nurses.
Planning for success: Why conservation programs need a strategic program for recovering species
Authors: Adams Vanessa M. , O'Donnell Jessica , Burley Alana , Lawson James , Auld Tony D. , Brazill‐Boast James , Laws Claire A. , Gallagher Rachael V.
Published: August 2019

A substantial amount of money has been spent globally on threatened species management. While the number of threatened species continues to increase, we would expect to observe a portion of those receiving active management to respond positively and recover over time. Management of these recovering species requires a different approach to those which are declining. In particular, recovering species may require active monitoring as the primary management activity, once the threats causing their initial decline have been managed such that populations are stable or increasing. When prioritizing funding actions to improve species persistence (in particular with species prioritization approaches such as cost‐effectiveness rankings), we demonstrate that monitoring species to track their continued improvement would only occur in the (unlikely) scenario of comprehensive program funding. We provide one easily implemented solution to this—the establishment of a separately funded transitional management stream within which recovering or recovered species are prioritized for monitoring from a dedicated monitoring budget. We present a set of criteria to assess recovering species eligible for this management arrangement and demonstrate the successful application of this approach in New South Wales, Australia in the Saving our Species program.
Pancreas FNA
Authors: Onuba Louisa , Perez‐Machado Miguel
Published: August 2019

Splenules are uncommon incidental entities that can be mistaken for more serious pathological lesions. The key cytological features are presented which should allow diagnosis and prevent unnecessary surgical intervention.
Large‐scale α‐diversity patterns in plants and ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) indicate a high biodiversity conservation value of China's restored temperate forest landscapes
Authors: Zou Yi , Sang Weiguo , Bai Fan , Brennan Ewan , Diekman Maryse , Liu Yunhui , Li Liangtao , Marples Alice , Shi Hongliang , Sui Zhongzhou , Sun Xiaojie , Wang Changliu , Wang Xin , Warren‐Thomas Eleanor , Yang Xin , Yu Zhenrong , Axmacher Jan Christoph
Published: August 2019

Aim

Following the near‐complete destruction of China's forest ecosystems during the 20th century, recent reforestation programmes have created large‐scale mosaics of protected secondary and plantation forests. These restored forests are often assumed to have limited biodiversity conservation value, but large‐scale evaluations of their diversity are lacking. In our study, we compared α‐diversity and species dissimilarity patterns of vascular plants and ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in restored secondary and plantation forests to remnant mature forests across north‐eastern temperate China. We also assessed functional traits of beetles and cross‐taxon diversity links to evaluate differences in ecosystem functioning among forest types.

Location

. Northeast China.

Methods

Vascular plant and ground beetle assemblages were recorded in 159 temperate forest plots. The α‐diversity and species compositional dissimilarity of these taxa and the functional traits of beetles were compared between plantation, secondary and mature forest ecosystems.

Results

Herbaceous plant species richness peaked in mature forests, while carabid and woody plant diversity did not differ between forest types. Species dissimilarity of carabids was lowest in mature forests and highest in plantation forests. Mature forest contained the highest proportion of carnivorous beetles and secondary forests of large‐bodied carabids. Carabid diversity and woody plant species richness were positively correlated in mature forests, but not in secondary or plantation forests.

Main conclusions

While China's mature forests show a great conservation value in harbouring highly diverse herbaceous plant assemblages and an abundance of distinct invertebrate trait groups such as small predatory carabids, China's restored temperate forests also support a high diversity of woody plants and carabids. Overall, our findings offer an encouraging conservation message for biodiversity conservation in China and demonstrate the importance of policy measures that ensure effective long‐term protection of both, China's remnant mature forests, but also its new forest ecosystems.
Effects of the sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor dapagliflozin on estimated plasma volume in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Dekkers Claire C. J. , Sjöström C. David , Greasley Peter J. , Cain Valerie , Boulton David W. , Heerspink Hiddo J. L.
Published: August 2019

Aims

To compare the effects of the sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitor dapagliflozin on estimated (ePV) and measured plasma volume (mPV) and to characterize the effects of dapagliflozin on ePV in a broad population of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

The Strauss formula was used to calculate changes in ePV. Change in plasma volume measured with 125I‐human serum albumin (mPV) was compared with change in ePV in 10 patients with type 2 diabetes randomized to dapagliflozin 10 mg/d or placebo. Subsequently, changes in ePV were measured in a pooled database of 13 phase 2b/3 placebo‐controlled clinical trials involving 4533 patients with type 2 diabetes who were randomized to dapagliflozin 10 mg daily or matched placebo.

Results

The median change in ePV was similar to the median change in mPV (−9.4% and −9.0%) during dapagliflozin treatment. In the pooled analysis of clinical trials, dapagliflozin decreased ePV by 9.6% (95% confidence interval 9.0 to 10.2) compared to placebo after 24 weeks. This effect was consistent in various patient subgroups, including subgroups with or without diuretic use or established cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions

ePV may be used as a proxy to assess changes in plasma volume during dapagliflozin treatment. Dapagliflozin consistently decreased ePV compared to placebo in a broad population of patients with type 2 diabetes.
NetLogoR: a package to build and run spatially explicit agent‐based models in R
Authors: Bauduin Sarah , McIntire Eliot J. B. , Chubaty Alex M.
Published: August 2019

NetLogoR is an R package to build and run spatially explicit agent‐based models (SE‐ABMs) using the R language. SE‐ABMs are models that simulate the fate of entities at the individual level within a spatial context and where patterns emerge at the population level. NetLogoR follows the same framework as the NetLogo software (Wilensky 1999). Rather than a call function to use the NetLogo software, NetLogoR is a translation into the R language of the structure and functions of NetLogo. Models built with NetLogoR are written in R language and are run on the R platform; no other software or language has to be involved. NetLogoR provides new R classes to define model agent objects and functions to implement spatially explicit agent‐based models in the R environment. Users of this package benefit from the fast and easy coding provided by the highly developed NetLogo framework, coupled with the versatility, power and massive resources of the R language.
Environmental influences on life history strategies in partially anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta, Salmonidae)
Authors: Nevoux Marie , Finstad Bengt , Davidsen Jan Grimsrud , Finlay Ross , Josset Quentin , Poole Russell , Höjesjö Johan , Aarestrup Kim , Persson Lo , Tolvanen Oula , Jonsson Bror
Published: August 2019

This paper reviews the life history of brown trout and factors influencing decisions to migrate. Decisions that maximize fitness appear dependent on size at age. In partly anadromous populations, individuals that attain maturity at the parr stage typically become freshwater resident. For individual fish, the life history is not genetically fixed and can be modified by the previous growth history and energetic state in early life. This phenotypic plasticity may be influenced by epigenetic modifications of the genome. Thus, factors influencing survival and growth determine life‐history decisions. These are intra‐ and interspecific competition, feeding and shelter opportunities in freshwater and salt water, temperature in alternative habitats and flow conditions in running water. Male trout exhibit alternative mating strategies and can spawn as a subordinate sneaker or a dominant competitor. Females do not exhibit alternative mating behaviour. The relationship between growth, size and reproductive success differs between sexes in that females exhibit a higher tendency to migrate than males. Southern populations are sensitive to global warming. In addition, fisheries, aquaculture with increased spreading of salmon lice,introduction of new species, weirs and river regulation, poor water quality and coastal developments all threaten trout populations. The paper summarizes life‐history data from six populations across Europe and ends by presenting new research questions and directions for future research.
Career concerns and peer effects in institutional tournaments: Evidence from ECB reserve currency portfolios
Authors: Sahel Benjamin , Scalia Antonio , Zaccaria Luana
Published: August 2019

Using data on European Central Bank's (ECB's) reserve currency portfolios, we find that money managers react to relative rankings (i.e., own vs. peers’ performance) by adjusting portfolio active risk levels measured ex ante by actual deviations from their benchmark. This occurs in the absence of explicit incentives as no monetary reward is promised for winning this “tournament” among portfolio managers. We collect information on managers’ characteristics, including age, education, tenure, salary, and career path, and investigate the role played by implicit incentives. We provide evidence that both individual career concerns and institutional peer pressure contribute to the documented relationship between ranking and risk taking.