bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field relevant variation in ambient temperature modifies the density-dependent establishment of Plasmodium falciparum in mosquitoes: implications for the infectious reservoir and beyond?
Authors: Pathak Ashutosh K. , Shiau Justine C. , Thomas Matthew B. , Murdock Courtney
Published: July 2019

The relationship between Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte density and infections in mosquitoes is central to understanding the rates of transmission with important implications for control. Here, we determined whether field relevant variation in environmental temperature could also modulate this relationship. Anopheles stephensi were challenged with three densities of P. falciparum gametocytes spanning a ∼10-fold gradient, and housed under diurnal/daily temperature range (“DTR”) of 9°C around means of 20°C, 24°C and 28°C. At the peak stages of infection for each temperature, the proportion of mosquitoes infected with oocysts in the midguts or infectious with sporozoites in the salivary glands were measured (referred to collectively as vector competence hereon), in addition to oocyst intensities from infected midguts. While vector competence was similar at 20 DTR 9°C and 24 DTR 9°C, the proportion of mosquitoes infected and subsequently infectious were also comparable, with evidence, surprisingly, for higher vector competence in mosquitoes challenged with intermediate gametocyte densities. For the same gametocyte densities however, severe reduction in the proportion of infectious mosquitoes was accompanied by a significant decline in vector competence at 28 DTR 9°C, although density per se showed a positive and linear effect at this temperature. Unlike vector competence, oocyst intensities decreased with increasing temperatures with a predominantly positive and linear association with gametocyte density, especially at 28 DTR 9°C. Oocyst intensities across individual infected midguts suggested temperature-specific differences in mosquito susceptibility/resistance: at 20 DTR 9°C and 24 DTR 9°C, dispersion (aggregation) increased in a density-dependent manner but not at 28 DTR 9°C where the distributions were consistently random. Limitations notwithstanding, our results have manifold implications in, for instance, how variation in temperature could modify seasonal dynamics of infectious reservoirs and transmission and the contribution of high-/patent- and low-density/sub-patent carriers, to suggestions for design and deployment of transmission-blocking vaccines/drugs, but with a cautionary note suggesting how low efficacy could lead to transmission enhancement in certain environments.
Correspondence between population coding and psychophysical scaling models of working memory
Authors: Bays Paul M
Published: July 2019

A mathematical idealization of the way neural populations encode sensory information has been found to provide a parsimonious account of errors made by human observers on perceptual and short-term memory tasks. This includes the effects of set size and flexible prioritization of items within a set (Bays, 2014), the frequency and identity of “swap” or misbinding errors (Schneegans & Bays, 2017), subjective judgments of confidence (Bays, 2016; van den Berg et al., 2017), and biases and variation in precision due to serial dependent and stimulus-specific effects (Bliss et al., 2017; Taylor & Bays, 2018). A superficially quite different account of short-term recall has recently been proposed in work by Schurgin et al. (2018), who argue that taking into account the differences between physical and perceptual distance in a feature space reduces recall to a classical signal detection problem. Here I document a remarkable similarity between the two models, demonstrating a favourable convergence of neural- and cognitive-level accounts of working memory.
The Tuberous Sclerosis gene, Tsc1, represses parvalbumin+/fast-spiking properties in somatostatin-lineage cortical interneurons
Authors: Malik Ruchi , Pai Emily Ling-Lin , Rubin Anna N , Stafford April M , Angara Kartik , Minasi Petros , Rubenstein John L , Sohal Vikaas S , Vogt Daniel
Published: July 2019

Medial ganglionic eminence (MGE)-derived somatostatin (SST)+ and parvalbumin (PV)+ cortical interneurons (CINs), have characteristic molecular, anatomical and physiological properties. However, mechanisms regulating their diversity remain poorly understood. Here, we show that conditional loss of the Tuberous Sclerosis (TS) gene, Tsc1, which inhibits mammalian target of rapamycin (MTOR), causes a subset of SST+ CINs, to express PV and adopt fast-spiking (FS) properties, characteristic of PV+ CINs. These changes also occur when only one allele of Tsc1 is deleted, making these findings relevant to individuals with TS. Notably, treatment with rapamycin, which inhibits MTOR, reverses these changes in adult mice. These data reveal novel functions of MTOR signaling in regulating PV expression and FS properties, which may contribute to some neuropsychiatric symptoms observed in TS. Moreover, they suggest that CINs can exhibit properties intermediate between those classically associated with PV+ or SST+ CINs, which may be dynamically regulated by the MTOR signaling.
In vitro reconstitution of branched microtubule nucleation
Authors: Tariq Ammarah , Green Lucy , Jeynes J Charles G. , Soeller Christian , Wakefield James G.
Published: July 2019

Eukaryotic cell division requires the mitotic spindle, a microtubule (MT)-based structure which accurately aligns and segregates duplicated chromosomes. The dynamics of spindle formation are determined primarily by correctly localising the MT nucleator, γ-Tubulin Ring Complex (γ-TuRC)1-4, within the cell. A conserved MT-associated protein complex, Augmin, recruits γ-TuRC to pre-existing spindle MTs, amplifying their number, in an essential cellular phenomenon termed “branched” MT nucleation5-9. Here, we purify endogenous, GFP-tagged Augmin and γ-TuRC from Drosophila embryos to near homogeneity using a novel one-step affinity technique. We demonstrate that, in vitro, while Augmin alone does not affect Tubulin polymerisation dynamics, it stimulates γ-TuRC-dependent MT nucleation in a cell cycle-dependent manner. We also assemble and visualise the MT-Augmin-γ-TuRC-MT junction using light microscopy. Our work therefore conclusively reconstitutes branched MT nucleation. It also provides a powerful synthetic approach with which to investigate the emergence of cellular phenomena, such as mitotic spindle formation, from component parts.
Blue sky’s the limit? Somatic embryogenesis as a means of propagating recalcitrant blue spruce (Picea pungens) cultivar Hoopsii
Authors: Demone Jordan , Mao Jingqin , Wan Shen , Nourimand Maryam , Hansen Äsbjörn Erik , Flinn Barry , Facchin Olivia , Prost Alar , Altosaar Illimar
Published: July 2019

The ‘triple-blue’ cultivar of blue spruce (Picea pungens Hoopsii) is notably recalcitrant towards the realm of traditional vegetative propagation methods. Its ability to naturally proliferate is limited by ovule and embryo abortion during the growing season, leading to low viable seed yield. In this study, we established a protocol using somatic embryogenesis (SE) as a means of propagating this popular ornamental cultivar. We collected cones from Hoopsii trees at seven different timepoints throughout the growing season (mid-June to late July in Ottawa (Plant Hardiness Zone 5A)). Female megagametophytes were harvested following each collection and immature zygotic embryos were plated onto induction media. Early somatic embryos began developing from the embryonic tissue (ET) three to five weeks following induction. The highest ET initiation frequency occurred from embryos collected June 20–July 10, suggesting that developmental stage of the embryo was a significant factor in SE induction. The conversion of mature somatic embryos into plantlets (emblings) was completed in eight–ten weeks at a rate of 92.8%. In this study, we demonstrate that in vitro somatic embryogenesis using our optimized protocol is a fast and prolific method for the mass propagation of Hoopsii blue spruce. This is the first report on the production of somatic Hoopsii emblings.
Changes in endolysosomal organization define a pre-degenerative state in thecrumbsmutantDrosophilaretina
Authors: Kraut Rachel S. , Knust Elisabeth
Published: July 2019

Mutations in the epithelial polarity genecrumbs(crb) lead to retinal degeneration inDrosophilaand in humans. The overall morphology of the retina and its deterioration inDrosophila crbmutants has been well-characterized, but the cell biological origin of the degeneration is not well understood. Degenerative conditions in the retina and elsewhere in the nervous system often involve defects in degradative intracellular trafficking pathways. So far, however, effects ofcrbon the endolysosomal system, or on the spatial organization of these compartments in photoreceptor cells have not been described. We therefore asked whether photoreceptors incrbmutants exhibit alterations in endolysosomal compartments under pre-degenerative conditions, where the retina is still morphologically intact. Data presented here show that, already well before the onset of degeneration, Arl8, Rab7, and Atg8-carrying endolysosomal and autophagosomal compartments undergo changes in morphology and positioning with respect to each other incrbmutant retinas. We propose that these changes may be early signs of the degeneration-prone condition incrbretinas.
Prenatal heat stress effects on gestation and postnatal behavior in kid goats
Authors: Coloma-García Wellington , Mehaba Nabil , Llonch Pol , Caja Gerardo , Such Xavier , Salama Ahmed A. K.
Published: July 2019

Consequences of heat stress during pregnancy can affect the normal development of the offspring. In the present experiment, 30 Murciano-Granadina dairy goats (41.8 ± 5.7 kg) were exposed to 2 thermal environments varying in temperature-humidity index (THI) from 12 days before mating to 45 days of gestation. The environmental conditions were: gestation thermal-neutral (GTN; THI = 71 ± 3); and gestation heat stress (GHS; THI = 85 ± 3). At 27 ± 4 days old, GTN-born female kids (n = 16) and GHS-born ones (n = 10) were subjected to 2 tests: arena test (AT) and novel object test (NOT), the latter was repeated at 3 months of age. Additionally, 8 months after birth, a subset of growing goats (n = 8) coming from GTN and GHS (16.8 ± 3.4 kg BW) were exposed consecutively to 2 environmental conditions: a basal thermal-neutral period (THI = 72 ± 3) for 7 days, and a heat-stress period (THI = 87 ± 2) for 21 days. In both periods, feeding behavior, resting behavior, other active behaviors (exploring, grooming), thermally-associated behaviors and posture were recorded. The gestation length was shortened by 3 days in GHS goats. In the AT, GHS kids showed a lower number of sniffs (P < 0.01) compared to GTN. In the NOT, GHS kids also tended to show a lower number of sniffs (P = 0.09). During heat exposure, GTN and GHS growing goats spent more time resting as well as exhibited more heat-stress related behaviors such as panting and drinking (P < 0.001); however, no differences were observed between both groups. In conclusion, heat stress during the first third of pregnancy shortened gestation length and influenced the exploratory behavior of the kids in the early life without impact on the behavior during the adulthood when exposed to heat stress.
3D digital anatomic angioarchitecture of the mouse brain using synchrotron-radiation-based propagation phase-contrast imaging
Authors: Shi Shupeng , Zhang Haoran , Yin Xianzhen , Wang Zhuolu , Tang Bin , Luo Yuebei , Ding Hui , Chen Zhuohui , Cao Yong , Wang Tiantian , Xiao Bo , Zhang Mengqi
Published: July 2019

Thorough investigation of the three-dimensional (3D) configuration of the vasculature of mouse brain remains technologically difficult because of its complex anatomical structure. In this study, a systematic analysis is developed to visualize the 3D angioarchitecture of mouse brain at ultrahigh resolution using synchrotron-radiation-based propagation phase-contrast imaging. This method provides detailed restoration of the intricate brain microvascular network in a precise 3D manner. In addition to depicting the delicate 3D arrangements of the vascular network, 3D virtual micro-endoscopy is also innovatively performed to visualize randomly a selected vessel within the brain for both external 3D micro-imaging and endoscopic visualization of any targeted microvessels, which improves the understanding of the intrinsic properties of the mouse brain angioarchitecture. Based on these data, hierarchical visualization has been established and a systematic assessment on the 3D configuration of the mouse brain microvascular network has been achieved at high resolution which will aid in advancing the understanding of the role of vasculature in the perspective of structure and function in depth. This holds great promise for wider application in various models of neurovascular diseases.
The structure and crystal chemistry of vernadite in ferromanganese crusts
Authors: Lee Seungyeol , Xu Huifang , Xu Wenqian , Sun Xiaoming
Published: July 2019

The structure and crystal chemistry of vernadite in ferromanganese crusts from the Magellan Seamount in the north-west Pacific Ocean have been investigated using synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray pair distribution function (PDF) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM). XRD patterns of vernadite mainly show two strong diffraction peaks at 2.42–2.43 Å and 1.41 Å without or with a broad (001) diffraction peak, indicating thin layer nanophases along the c-direction. TEM images show flat and curved sheet-like nanocrystals with (001) layer thickness of ∼7.2 Å and ∼9.6 Å, and their interstratified structure. PDF patterns of the vernadite are similar to those from synthetic δ-MnO2 and defective birnessite, suggesting a phyllomanganate framework. Combined XRD/PDF patterns suggest that vernadite in the outer part is associated with a higher density interlayer species at triple-edge sharing sites. The proportion of the 10 Å phase increases from the outer (young) part to the inner (old) part of the Mn crusts due to aging and sorption of Mn, Co and Ni from ambient seawater. This study suggests that this combined method of synchrotron radiation XRD/PDF and high-resolution TEM is a powerful tool to determine atomic structures of poorly crystallized nano-minerals. The mixture model of vernadite structure will help to understand the partitioning and distribution of trace elements in the ferromanganese crusts.
Crystal structure of poly[[[μ4-3-(1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)adamantane-1-carboxylato-κ5
N
1:N
2:O
1:O
1,O
1′]silver(I)] dihydrate]
Authors: Senchyk Ganna A. , Krautscheid Harald , Domasevitch Kostiantyn V.
Published: July 2019

The heterobifunctional organic ligand, 3-(1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)adamantane-1-carboxylate (tr-ad-COO−
), was employed for the synthesis of the title silver(I) coordination polymer, {[Ag(C13H16N3O2)]·2H2O}
n
, crystallizing in the rare orthorhombic C2221 space group. Alternation of the double μ2-1,2,4-triazole and μ2-η2:η1-COO− (chelating, bridging mode) bridges between AgI cations supports the formation of sinusoidal coordination chains. The AgI centers possess a distorted {N2O3} square-pyramidal arrangement with τ5 = 0.30. The angular organic linkers connect the chains into a tetragonal framework with small channels along the c-axis direction occupied by water molecules of crystallization, which are interlinked via O—H...O hydrogen bonds with carboxylate groups, leading to right- and left-handed helical dispositions.
An unexpected rhenium(IV)–rhenium(VII) salt: [Co(NH3)6]3[ReVIIO4][ReIVF6]4·6H2O
Authors: Louis–Jean James , Mariappan Balasekaran Samundeeswari , Hagenbach Adelheid , Poineau Frederic
Published: July 2019

The title hydrated salt, tris[hexaamminecobalt(III)] tetraoxidorhenate(VII) tetrakis[hexafluoridorhenate(IV)] hexahydrate, arose unexpectedly due to possible contamination of the K2ReF6starting material with KReO4. It consists of octahedral [Co(NH3)6]3+cation (Co1 site symmetry 1), tetrahedral [ReVIIO4]−anions (Re site symmetry 1) and octahedral [ReIVF6]2−anions (Re site symmetries 1and \overline{3}). The [ReF6]2−octahedral anions (mean Re—F = 1.834 Å), [Co(NH3)6]3+octahedral cations (mean Co—N = 1.962 Å), and the [ReO4]−tetrahedral anion (mean Re—O = 1.719 Å) are slightly distorted. A network of N—H...F hydrogen bonds consolidates the structure. The crystal studied was refined as a two-component twin.
Crystal structure of (15,20-bis(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)-5,10-{(pyridine-3,5-diyl)bis[(sulfanediylmethylene)[1,1′-biphenyl]-4′,2-diyl]}porphyrinato)nickel(II) dichloromethane x-solvate (x > 1/2) showing a rare CN5 coordination
Authors: Gutzeit Florian , Näther Christian , Herges Rainer
Published: July 2019

The crystal structure of the title compound, [Ni(C63H31F10N5S2)]·xCH2Cl2 (x > 1/2), consists of Ni–porphyrin complexes that are located in general positions and dichloromethane solvent molecules that are disordered around centers of inversion. The NiII ions are in a square-pyramidal (CN5) coordination, with four porphyrin N atoms in the equatorial and a pyridine N atom in the apical position and are shifted out of the porphyrine N4 plane towards the coordinating pyridine N atom. The pyridine substituent is not exactly perpendicular to the N4 plane with an angle of intersection between the planes planes of 80.48 (6)°. The dichloromethane solvent molecules are hydrogen bonded to one of the four porphyrine N atoms. Two complexes are linked into dimers by two symmetry-equivalent C—H...S hydrogen bonds. These dimers are closely packed, leading to cavities in which additional dichloromethane solvent molecules are embedded. These solvent molecules are disordered and because no reasonable split model was found, the data were corrected for disordered solvent using the PLATON SQUEEZE routine [Spek (2015). Acta Cryst. C71, 9–18].
Employee involvement in decision-making: the more the better?
Authors: Tian Xiaowen , Zhai Xiaoxuan
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to relate participative decision-making (PDM) to organizational learning, and examine the impact of PDM on organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper integrates the resource-based theory with organizational learning theory to develop a framework, and distinguishes PDM in which decisions are jointly made by employees and managers from employee decision-making (EDM) in which decisions are completely in the hands of employees. The paper incorporates an augmented Cobb–Douglass production function into a structural equation model to estimate the performance impact of PDM and EDM.

Findings

The paper tests the framework against firm-level data form China, and finds that PDM provides an opportunity for collective learning, and has a positive relationship with productivity-based profit gains; the positive relationship is stronger in firms whose management has greater accumulated knowledge and experience; EDM fails to provide an opportunity for collective learning, and has a negative relationship with productivity-based profit gains.

Originality/value

Prior research focused on the role of PDM in enhancing the motivation and performance of individual employees, considered the degree of employee involvement as a continuum with the highest being decision-making “completely in the hands of employees,” and concluded that the more involved are employees in decision-making the better. This paper relates PDM to organizational performance, and challenges this conventional view from an organizational learning perspective.
The joint effects of IT resources and CEO support in IT assimilation
Authors: Gao Peiran , Gong Yeming , Zhang Jinlong , Mao Hongyi , Liu Shan
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the joint effects of different types of IT resources and top management support. Especially, the authors attempt to mainly examine a negative synergy or substitution relationship between IT infrastructure resources and CEO support, and a positive synergy or complementary relationship between IT human resources and CEO support among the large-sized enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model that integrates IT infrastructure resources, IT human resources, CEO support and the degree of usage of IT for business objectives (i.e. IT business spanning capability) is developed. Based on a sample of 112 large-sized enterprises, partial least squares is used to analyze the research model.

Findings

Whereas the positive moderating role of CEO support in the effectiveness of IT human resources is insignificant, CEO support and IT infrastructure resources have a substitution relationship in predicting IT business spanning capability. Furthermore, the results can explain under which conditions IT infrastructure resources insignificantly or significantly affect IT business spanning capability in large-sized enterprises. Specially, IT infrastructure resources significantly affect IT business spanning capability only when CEO support is low. Thus, in the presence of high CEO support, IT executives in large-sized enterprises should prioritize developing highly effective IT resources, such as IT human resources.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the joint effects of two critical IT resource types (i.e. IT infrastructure and IT human resources) and CEO support in the IT assimilation process among the large-sized enterprises, ultimately contributing to information systems theories and practices.
Leveraging previously reported research to create a decision support tool for institutional facility maintenance
Authors: Beauregard Michael A. , Ayer Steven K.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The discretionary expense budget required to maintain public infrastructure has declined in recent years, even as public expectations and accountability for performance have increased. The purpose of this paper is to leverage previously reported research to create a decision support tool (DST) for prioritizing institutional facility maintenance.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured literature review was developed to identify critical aspects of facility maintenance shown to have a positive relationship with academic performance in K-12 schools within the USA. Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) serves as a framework for a multi-criteria DST based on the findings of the literature review. Finally, a targeted focus group of industry professionals was used to validate the usability of the resulting DST.

Findings

The framework for the DST developed for this study effectively represents the scale and scope of an institutional facility. Results of the study suggest that when evaluating multi-criteria work orders, the proposed visual AHP methodology can be used to generate usable DSTs to assist with the prioritization of work.

Practical implications

This study provides a methodology for building a multi-criterion DST leveraging precedent research, using a visual AHP to assist facility management (FM) decision-makers in the prioritization of routine work orders.

Originality/value

The developed process indicates a practical approach to incorporating disparate research findings into a concise and useable manner to guide FM decision-makers, who have traditionally not been able to explicitly leverage this information to make evidence-based spending decisions.
Can energy commodities affect energy blockchain-based cryptos?
Authors: Gurrib Ikhlaas
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to shed fresh light into whether an energy commodity price index (ENFX) and energy blockchain-based crypto price index (ENCX) can be used to predict movements in the energy commodity and energy crypto market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using principal component analysis over daily data of crude oil, heating oil, natural gas and energy based cryptos, the ENFX and ENCX indices are constructed, where ENFX (ENCX) represents 94% (88%) of variability in energy commodity (energy crypto) prices.

Findings

Natural gas price movements were better explained by ENCX, and shared positive (negative) correlations with cryptos (crude oil and heating oil). Using a vector autoregressive model (VAR), while the 1-day lagged ENCX (ENFX) was significant in estimating current ENCX (ENFX) values, only lagged ENCX was significant in estimating current ENFX. Granger causality tests confirmed the two markets do not granger cause each other. One standard deviation shock in ENFX had a negative effect on ENCX. Weak forecasting results of the VAR model, support the two markets are not robust forecasters of each other. Robustness wise, the VAR model ranked lower than an autoregressive model, but higher than a random walk model.

Research limitations/implications

Significant structural breaks at distinct dates in the two markets reinforce that the two markets do not help to predict each other. The findings are limited by the existence of bubbles (December 2017-January 2018) which were witnessed in energy blockchain-based crypto markets and natural gas, but not in crude oil and heating oil.

Originality/value

As per the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to analyze the relationship between leading energy commodities and energy blockchain-based crypto markets.
In situ abundance and carbon fixation activity of distinct anoxygenic phototrophs in the stratified seawater lake Rogoznica
Authors: Pjevac Petra , Dyksma Stefan , Goldhammer Tobias , Mujakić Izabela , Koblížek Michal , Mußmann Marc , Amann Rudolf , Orlić Sandi
Published: July 2019

Sulphide‐driven anoxygenic photosynthesis is an ancient microbial metabolism that contributes significantly to inorganic carbon fixation in stratified, sulphidic water bodies. Methods commonly applied to quantify inorganic carbon fixation by anoxygenic phototrophs, however, cannot resolve the contributions of distinct microbial populations to the overall process. We implemented a straightforward workflow, consisting of radioisotope labelling and flow cytometric cell sorting based on the distinct autofluorescence of bacterial photopigments, to discriminate and quantify contributions of co‐occurring anoxygenic phototrophic populations to in situ inorganic carbon fixation in environmental samples. This allowed us to assign 89.3% ± 7.6% of daytime inorganic carbon fixation by anoxygenic phototrophs in Lake Rogoznica (Croatia) to an abundant chemocline‐dwelling population of green sulphur bacteria (dominated by Chlorobium phaeobacteroides), whereas the co‐occurring purple sulphur bacteria (Halochromatium sp.) contributed only 1.8% ± 1.4%. Furthermore, we obtained two metagenome assembled genomes of green sulphur bacteria and one of a purple sulphur bacterium which provides the first genomic insights into the genus Halochromatium, confirming its high metabolic flexibility and physiological potential for mixo‐ and heterotrophic growth.
Endoscopic repair of anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection for rectal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Chorti Angeliki , Stavrou George , Stelmach Veronica , Tsaousi Georgia , Michalopoulos Antonios , Papavramidis Theodosios S. , Kotzampassi Katerina
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Anastomotic leakage (AL) after low anterior resection for rectal cancer is a severe complication. Except for re‐operation, several endoscopic options have been proposed for the minimal invasive treatment of AL, including the endoluminal vacuum devices, tissue sealants and Over‐The‐Scope‐Clip (OTSC) technique. The aim of the present review is to evaluate the effect of alternative treatment options for AL repair, by means of endoscopy.

Method

A bibliographic search was performed in the international literature. Ten case reports and series were finally included, reporting 75 cases of endoscopic repair of AL. A descriptive statistical analysis and a systematic review were performed.

Results

The patients' mean age was 65.84 ± 9.92 years (95% CI: 61.70‐68.76), the male‐to‐female ratio being 1.5:1. The mean diameter of the cavity was 5.17 ± 3.32 cm (95% CI: 4.03‐6.31). The mean time until the diagnosis was 44.15 ± 105.91 days (95% CI: 13.39‐74.90). Vacuum‐assisted closure therapy was the most common technique (52%), followed by fibrin glue (25.3%) and OTSC (22.7%). As supplementary therapy, OTSC was applied in 8.3%, vacuum‐assisted closure in 25%, endoclips in 4.2%, while fibrin glue was the most frequently used (62.5%).

Conclusion

Endoscopic management of AL after low anterior resection is considered as an alternative to surgical treatment with promising results.
Clinical feeding examination with cervical auscultation for detecting oropharyngeal aspiration: A systematic review of the evidence
Authors: Frakking Thuy T. , Chang Anne B. , David Michael , Orbell‐Smith Jane , Weir Kelly A.
Published: July 2019

Background

Cervical auscultation (i.e. listening to swallowing sounds) is the most commonly used technique in adjuvant to the clinical feeding examination by speech‐language pathologists worldwide to assess for oropharyngeal aspiration risk in children. Despite its relative popularity in clinical practice, little is known on the clinical utility of cervical auscultation within a paediatric population.

Objective

To determine the diagnostic test accuracy of the clinical feeding examination with cervical auscultation in the detection of aspiration in children.

Type of review

Narrative review. Prospero Registration: CRD42017081467 Search strategy: Medline/Pub Med, Embase, CINAHL, AustHealth, Cochrane and UQ (Scopus) were searched up until October 2017. Specifically, the search terms used were: (((oropharyngeal OR respiratory) aspiration) AND (child* OR pediatr* OR paediatr*) and (cervical auscultation OR swallow sounds OR swallowing sounds OR accelerometry OR swallowing acoustics)). The search strategy also included scanning reference lists and citations of retrieved studies.

Evaluation method

Extracted studies were reviewed by two independent reviewers. Methodological quality of studies was assessed using the QUADAS‐2 tool.

Results

Only one study met inclusion criteria for this review, which had a bias for flow and timing. Use of cervical auscultation in conjunction with the clinical feeding examination to predict aspiration had a positive predictor value (PPV) of only 0.49 (0.31‐0.66), indicating potential over‐prediction of aspiration when cervical auscultation is used. In contrast a high NPV of 0.92 (0.78‐0.98) was reported indicating that cervical auscultation is useful at ruling out aspiration in children.

Conclusion

This review highlights the paucity of research studies assessing the accuracy of cervical auscultation as an adjuvant to the clinical feeding examination in aspiration detection within the paediatric population.
Enhanced bone tissue regeneration of a biomimetic cellular scaffold with co‐cultured MSCs‐derived osteogenic and angiogenic cells
Authors: Li Limei , Li Jidong , Zou Qin , Zuo Yi , Cai Bin , Li Yubao
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The bone tissue engineering primarily focuses on three‐dimensional co‐culture systems, which physical and biological properties resemble the cell matrix of actual tissues. The complex dialogue between bone‐forming and endothelial cells (ECs) in a tissue‐engineered construct will directly regulate angiogenesis and bone regeneration. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether co‐culture between osteogenic and angiogenic cells derived by bone mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could affect cell activities and new bone formation.

Materials and methods

Mesenchymal stem cells were dually induced to differentiate into osteogenic cells (OMSCs) and ECs; both cell types were co‐cultured at different ratios to investigate their effects and underlying mechanisms through ELISA, RT‐qPCR and MTT assays. The selected cell mixture was transplanted onto a nano‐hydroxyapatite/polyurethane (n‐HA/PU) scaffold to form a cell‐scaffold construct that was implanted in the rat femoral condyles. Histology and micro‐CT were examined for further verification.

Results

ELISA and gene expression studies revealed that co‐cultured OMSCs/ECs (0.5/1.5) significantly elevated the transcription levels of osteogenic genes such as ALP, Col‐I and OCN, as well as transcription factors Msx2, Runx2 and Osterix; it also upregulated angiogenic factors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and CD31 when compared with cells cultured alone or in other ratios. The optimized OMSCs/ECs group had more abundant calcium phosphate crystal deposition, further facilitated their bone formation in vivo.

Conclusions

The OMSCs/ECs‐scaffold constructs at an optimal cell ratio (0.5/1.5) achieved enhanced osteogenic and angiogenic factor expression and biomineralization, which resulted in more effective bone formation.
Efficacy and safety of linagliptin to improve glucose control in older people with type 2 diabetes on stable insulin therapy: A randomized trial
Authors: Ledesma Gilbert , Umpierrez Guillermo E. , Morley John E. , Lewis‐D'Agostino Diane , Keller Annett , Meinicke Thomas , van der Walt Sandra , von Eynatten Maximilian
Published: July 2019

Aim

To assess the addition of linagliptin as an alternative to insulin uptitration in older people with type 2 diabetes on stable insulin therapy.

Materials and Methods

This phase 4, randomized, multicentre, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, 24‐week study recruited individuals on stable insulin, with baseline HbA1c 7.0%‐10.0%, aged ≥60 years and body mass index ≤45 kg/m2. HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose were measured at study visits, and participants assessed glycaemic control with a self‐monitoring blood glucose device. Adverse events (AEs) were reported during the study.

Results

Three hundred and two participants were randomized 1:1 to linagliptin 5 mg qd and placebo, with one third of patients from Japan. Study population age and HbA1c (baseline mean ± SD) were 72.4 ± 5.4 years and 8.2 ± 0.8%, respectively; ~80% of participants were aged ≥70 years; 80% had macrovascular complications, one third had a baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2; and half had been diagnosed with diabetes for >15 years. Linagliptin significantly improved glucose control at 24 weeks (HbA1c‐adjusted mean change vs. placebo: –0.63%; P <0.0001) and the probability of achieving predefined HbA1c targets without hypoglycaemia (HbA1c <8.0%: OR 2.02; P <0.05 and HbA1c <7.0%: OR 2.44; P <0.01). Linagliptin versus placebo was well tolerated, with similar incidences of AEs, including clinically important hypoglycaemia (blood glucose <54 mg/dL) or severe hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

Addition of linagliptin improves glucose control without an excess of hypoglycaemia in older patients with type 2 diabetes on stable insulin therapy.
Climate change lengthens southeastern USA lightning‐ignited fire seasons
Authors: Fill Jennifer M. , Davis Corey N. , Crandall Raelene M.
Published: July 2019

Trends in average annual or seasonal precipitation are insufficient for detecting changes in the climatic fire season, especially in regions where the fire season is defined by wet–dry seasonal cycles and lightning activity. Using an extensive dataset (1897–2017) in the Coastal Plain of the southeastern United States, we examined changes in annual dry season length, total precipitation, and (since 1945) the seasonal distribution of thunder‐days as a correlate of lightning activity. We found that across the entire region, the dry season has lengthened by as much as 156 days (130% over 120 years), both starting earlier and ending later with less total precipitation. Less rainfall over a longer dry season, with no change in seasonal thunderstorm patterns, likely increases both the potential for lightning‐ignited wildfires and fire severity. Global climate change could be having a hitherto undetected influence on fire regimes by altering the synchrony of climatic seasonal parameters.
Adapt or die—Response of large herbivores to environmental changes in Europe during the Holocene
Authors: Hofman‐Kamińska Emilia , Bocherens Hervé , Drucker Dorothée G. , Fyfe Ralph M. , Gumiński Witold , Makowiecki Daniel , Pacher Martina , Piličiauskienė Giedrė , Samojlik Tomasz , Woodbridge Jessie , Kowalczyk Rafał
Published: July 2019

Climate warming and human landscape transformation during the Holocene resulted in environmental changes for wild animals. The last remnants of the European Pleistocene megafauna that survived into the Holocene were particularly vulnerable to changes in habitat. To track the response of habitat use and foraging of large herbivores to natural and anthropogenic changes in environmental conditions during the Holocene, we investigated carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope composition in bone collagen of moose (Alces alces), European bison (Bison bonasus) and aurochs (Bos primigenius) in Central and Eastern Europe. We found strong variations in isotope compositions in the studied species throughout the Holocene and diverse responses to changing environmental conditions. All three species showed significant changes in their δ13C values reflecting a shift of foraging habitats from more open in the Early and pre‐Neolithic Holocene to more forest during the Neolithic and Late Holocene. This shift was strongest in European bison, suggesting higher plasticity, more limited in moose, and the least in aurochs. Significant increases of δ15N values in European bison and moose are evidence of a diet change towards more grazing, but may also reflect increased nitrogen in soils following deglaciation and global temperature increases. Among the factors explaining the observed isotope variations were time (age of samples), longitude and elevation in European bison, and time, longitude and forest cover in aurochs. None of the analysed factors explained isotope variations in moose. Our results demonstrate the strong influence of natural (forest expansion) and anthropogenic (deforestation and human pressure) changes on the foraging ecology of large herbivores, with forests playing a major role as a refugial habitat since the Neolithic, particularly for European bison and aurochs. We propose that high flexibility in foraging strategy was the key for survival of large herbivores in the changing environmental conditions of the Holocene.
Impacts of Spatial Autocorrelation in Georeferenced Beta and Multinomial Random Variables
Authors: Hu Lan , Griffith Daniel A. , Chun Yongwan
Published: July 2019

The literature is replete with acknowledgments that spatial autocorrelation (SA) inflates the variance of a random variable (RV), and that it also may alter other RV distributional properties. In most studies, impacts of SA have been examined only for the three most commonly used distributions: the normal, Poisson (and its negative binomial counterpart), and binomial distributions; much less is known about its effects on two other RVs that are utilized in GIScience research: the beta and the multinomial. The beta distribution—which is considered to be very flexible because it can mimic a uniform, exponential, sinusoidal, and normal RV—can be utilized to analyze the radiance of a remotely sensed image, for example. The multinomial distribution, a generalization of the binomial distribution, has been widely used for land use classification, and to describe land use change. The literature also suggests that RV impacts of negative SA, a neglected topic in spatial analysis, may differ from those of positive SA, at least for some RVs (e.g., the Poisson RV). The purpose of this article is to extend the investigation of effects of SA to beta and multinomial RVs, with both positive SA and negative SA assessed and contrasted with each other, using simulation experiments. The simulation experiments are designed to support this assessment. One of the major discoveries is that impacts of positive SA and negative SA behave similarly when a RV conforms to a normal distribution; however, maximum negative SA is unable to materialize for asymmetric RV, whereas positive SA always converges upon its maximum.
Comparison of Microbiomes and Resistomes in Two Karst Groundwater Sites in Chongqing, China
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zhang Yuanzhu , Kuang Zhongmei , Xu Junqi , Li Chunyan , Li Yong , Jiang Yongjun , Xie Jianping
Published: July 2019

Karst groundwater is an important water resource, as it accounts for about 15% of the total landscape of the earth and supplies 20% of potable water worldwide. The antibiotics resistance is an emerging global concern, and antibiotics residual and increase of antibiotic resistance genes represent serious global concerns and emerging pollutants. There is no report on the antibiotic resistance genes in groundwater. To survey resistome and microbiome in karst groundwater, two karst water samples were chosen for metagenome and metatranscriptome study, namely the 37th spring (C) and Dongcao spring (R) in Beibei, Chongqing, China. The two sites differ significantly in sulfur content, geochemical parameters, community structure, antibiotic resistance genes, and mechanisms, and these results may be influenced by anthropogenic activities. Combining with the Antibiotic Resistance Genes Database, three types of resistance genes baca, sul2, sul1 are present in R and C, and ant3ia, ermc, tetpa are also present in R. The number of all resistance genes in R was more than C, and Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Nitrospirae are the main sources of antibiotic resistance genes. In addition, a large number of genes related to antibiotic gene transmission and drug resistance were found in both samples. Karst groundwater is an important source of drinking water and a possible venue for the transmission of microbial antibiotic resistance genes. However, few studies addressed this issue in karst groundwater, despite its widespread and great importance to global ecosystem. Karst groundwater is a reservoir for antibiotic resistant genes, and measures to control these resistant genes are urgently needed.
Optimal investment and pricing in the presence of defaults
Authors: Ishikawa Tetsuya , Robertson Scott
Published: July 2019

We consider the optimal investment problem with random endowment in the presence of defaults. For an investor with constant absolute risk aversion, we identify the certainty equivalent, and compute prices for defaultable bonds and dynamic protection against default. This latter price is interpreted as the premium for a contingent credit default swap, and connects our work with earlier articles, where the investor is protected upon default. We consider a multiple risky asset model with a single default time, at which point each of the assets may jump in price. Investment opportunities are driven by a diffusion X taking values in an arbitrary region . We allow for stochastic volatility, correlation, and recovery; unbounded random endowments; and postdefault trading. We identify the certainty equivalent with a semilinear parabolic partial differential equation with quadratic growth in both function and gradient. Under minimal integrability assumptions, we show that the certainty equivalent is a classical solution. Numerical examples highlight the relationship between the factor process, market dynamics, utility‐based prices, and default insurance premium. In particular, we show that the holder of a defaultable bond has a strong incentive to short the underlying stock, even for very low default intensities.
Ad Valorem Versus Per‐unit Royalty Licensing in a Cournot Duopoly Model
Authors: Hsu Judy , Liu Longhua , Henry Wang X. , Zeng Chenhang
Published: July 2019

Ad valorem royalty licensing is implemented when the licensor (i.e., patent‐holding firm) obtains ownership shares in the licensee as payment once the new technology is transferred. In a Cournot duopoly model, we compare two licensing forms between competitors of different productivity, ad valorem and per‐unit royalty licensing. This paper finds that ad valorem royalty licensing is superior to per‐unit royalty licensing for the patent‐holding firm when the cost‐reducing innovation is non‐drastic. The reason for this result is that cross ownership reduces output market competition and thus the patent‐holding firm enjoys better profit margins by strategically setting the share ratio. Furthermore, we show that the relieved competition under ad valorem royalty licensing pulls down the industry output, and thus hurts consumer surplus and social welfare in comparison to per‐unit royalty licensing.
Modeling Money and Credit: The New Monetarist View
Authors: Mattesini Fabrizio
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we survey recent theoretical work on money and credit following the New Monetarist approach. We argue that a coherent macroeconomic model should show that both these institutions are essential, in the sense that they help achieve allocations that could not be attained without them. As recent literature shows, however, this is difficult to establish and requires being very explicit about the frictions that money and credit help overcome. The paper highlights the importance of microfoundations and provides a word of caution against using reduced form models in macroeconomics.
Experiences of online breastfeeding support: Support and reassurance versus judgement and misinformation
Authors: Regan Sian , Brown Amy
Published: July 2019

Breastfeeding support is integral to many women's successful breastfeeding experiences. However, cuts to professional and peer support services, distance from family, and a predominant formula‐feeding culture mean that many women in the United Kingdom do not receive the support they need. Turning to online support is an increasingly popular means of gaining both informational and emotional support, but research into online breastfeeding support groups is sparse in the United Kingdom. Data from Australia and the United States tend to focus on the positives: Women value such groups, finding information, reassurance, and a feeling of belonging. This study explored 14 women's experiences of using online support for breastfeeding in the United Kingdom, using semistructured interviews to understand their motivations and positive and negative experiences. Mothers were drawn to online support due to a lack of professional, familial, and partner support. Online support was reassuring, empathetic, and available around the clock and less daunting than attending a face‐to‐face group. Many attributed their continued breastfeeding to the support they received. However, women also experienced negativities: judgement for using formula, polarised debate, and a lack of regulation, meaning that unhelpful information was sometimes posted. The findings have important implications for those working to support mothers. These groups provide a safe space for breastfeeding mothers, but moderation is needed of such groups to ensure information is accurate and debate respectful. Online support groups are currently plugging a gap in funded support; they should be in addition not in replacement to professional and trained peer support services.
Constraining estimates of terrestrial carbon uptake: new opportunities using long‐term satellite observations and data assimilation
Authors: Smith William K. , Fox Andrew M. , MacBean Natasha , Moore David J. P. , Parazoo Nicholas C.
Published: July 2019

The response of terrestrial carbon uptake to increasing atmospheric [CO2], that is the CO2 fertilization effect (CFE), remains a key area of uncertainty in carbon cycle science. Here we provide a perspective on how satellite observations could be better used to understand and constrain CFE. We then highlight data assimilation (DA) as an effective way to reconcile different satellite datasets and systematically constrain carbon uptake trends in Earth System Models. As a proof‐of‐concept, we show that joint DA of multiple independent satellite datasets reduced model ensemble error by better constraining unobservable processes and variables, including those directly impacted by CFE. DA of multiple satellite datasets offers a powerful technique that could improve understanding of CFE and enable more accurate forecasts of terrestrial carbon uptake.