bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An alternative AUG codon in segment 5 of the 2009 pandemic influenza A virus is a swine-derived virulence motif
Authors: Wise Helen M. , Gaunt Eleanor , Ping Jihui , Holzer Barbara , Jasim Seema , Lycett Samantha J. , Murphy Lita , Livesey Alana , Brown Russell , Smith Nikki , Morgan Sophie , Clark Becky , Kudryavtseva Katerine , Beard Philippa M. , Nguyen-Van-Tam Jonathan , Salguero Francisco J. , Tchilian Elma , Dutia Bernadette M. , Brown Earl G. , Digard Paul
Published: August 2019

The 2009 influenza A virus (IAV) pandemic (pdm2009) was caused by a swine H1N1 virus with several atypical genetic features. Here, we investigate the origin and significance of an upstream AUG (uAUG) codon in the 5’-untranslated region of the NP gene. Phylogeny indicated that the uAUG codon arose in the classical swine IAV lineage in the mid 20thCentury, and has become fixed in the current triple reassortant, variant pdm2009 swine IAV and human pdm2009 lineages. Functionally, it supports leaky ribosomal initiationin vitroandin vivoto produce two isoforms of NP: canonical, and a longer “eNP”. The uAUG codon had little effect on viral gene expression or replicationin vitro. However, in both murine and porcine models of IAV infection, removing the uAUG codon gene attenuated pdm2009 virus pathogenicity. Thus, the NP uAUG codon is a virulence factor for swine IAVs with proven zoonotic ability.
A comprehensive annotation and differential expression analysis of short and long non-coding RNAs in 16 bat genomes
Authors: Mostajo Berrospi Nelly , Lataretu Marie , Krautwurst Sebastian , Mock Florian , Desirò Daniel , Lamkiewicz Kevin , Collatz Maximilian , Schoen Andreas , Weber Friedemann , Marz Manja , Hölzer Martin
Published: August 2019

Although bats are increasingly becoming the focus of scientific studies due to their unique properties, these exceptional animals are still among the least studied mammals. Assembly quality and completeness of bat genomes vary a lot and especially non-coding RNA (ncRNA) annotations are incomplete or simply missing. Accordingly, standard bioinformatics pipelines for gene expression analysis often ignore ncRNAs such as microRNAs or long antisense RNAs. The main cause of this problem is the use of incomplete genome annotations. We present a complete screening for ncRNAs within 16 bat genomes. NcRNAs affect a remarkable variety of vital biological functions, including gene expression regulation, RNA processing, RNA interference and, as recently described, regulatory processes in viral infections. Within all investigated bat assemblies we annotated 667 ncRNA families including 162 snoRNAs and 193 miRNAs as well as rRNAs, tRNAs, several snRNAs and IncRNAs, and other structural ncRNA elements. We validated our ncRNA candidates by six RNA-Seq data sets and show significant expression patterns that have never been described before in a bat species on such a large scale. Our annotations will be usable as a resource (Electronic Supplement) for deeper studying of bat evolution, ncRNAs repertoire, gene expression and regulation, ecology, and important host-virus interactions.

Supplementary information

is available at rna.uni-jena.de/supplements/bats, the Open Science Framework (doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/4CMDN), and GitHub (github.com/rnajena/bats_ncrna).
Automatic Spatial Estimation of White Matter Hyperintensities Evolution in Brain MRI using Disease Evolution Predictor Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Rachmadi Muhammad Febrian , del C. Valdés-Hernández Maria , Makin Stephen , Wardlaw Joanna , Komura Taku
Published: August 2019

Previous studies have indicated that white matter hyperintensities (WMH), the main radiological feature of small vessel disease, may evolve (i.e., shrink, grow) or stay stable over a period of time. Predicting these changes are challenging because it involves some unknown clinical risk factors that leads to a non-deterministic prediction task. In this study, we propose a deep learning model to predict the evolution of WMH from baseline to follow-up (i.e., 1-year later), namely “Disease Evolution Predictor” (DEP) model, which can be adjusted to become a non-deterministic model. The DEP model receives a baseline image as input and produces a map called “Disease Evolution Map” (DEM), which represents the evolution of WMH from baseline to follow-up. Two DEP models are proposed, namely DEP-UResNet and DEP-GAN, which are representatives of the supervised (i.e., need expert-generated manual labels to generate the output) and unsupervised (i.e., do not require manual labels produced by experts) deep learning algorithms respectively. To simulate the non-deterministic and unknown parameters involved in WMH evolution, we modulate a Gaussian noise array to the DEP model as auxiliary input. This forces the DEP model to imitate a wider spectrum of alternatives in the prediction results. The alternatives of using other types of auxiliary input instead, such as baseline WMH and stroke lesion loads are also proposed and tested. Based on our experiments, the fully supervised machine learning scheme DEP-UResNet regularly performed better than the DEP-GAN which works in principle without using any expert-generated label (i.e., unsupervised). However, a semi-supervised DEP-GAN model, which uses probability maps produced by a supervised segmentation method in the learning process, yielded similar performances to the DEP-UResNet and performed best in the clinical evaluation. Furthermore, an ablation study showed that an auxiliary input, especially the Gaussian noise, improved the performance of DEP models compared to DEP models that lacked the auxiliary input regardless of the model’s architecture. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first extensive study on modelling WMH evolution using deep learning algorithms, which deals with the non-deterministic nature of WMH evolution.
Single Cell Transcriptional Signatures of the Human Placenta in Term and Preterm Parturition
Authors: Pique-Regi Roger , Romero Roberto , L.Tarca Adi , Sendler Edward D. , Xu Yi , Garcia-Flores Valeria , Leng Yaozhu , Luca Francesca , Hassan Sonia S. , Gomez-Lopez Nardhy
Published: August 2019

More than 135 million births occur each year; yet, the molecular underpinnings of human parturition in gestational tissues, and in particular the placenta, are still poorly understood. The placenta is a complex heterogeneous organ including cells of both maternal and fetal origin, and insults that disrupt the maternal-fetal dialogue could result in adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth. There is limited knowledge of the cell type composition and transcriptional activity of the placenta and its compartments during physiologic and pathologic parturition. To fill this knowledge gap, we used scRNA-seq to profile the placental villous tree, basal plate, and chorioamniotic membranes of women with or without labor at term and those with preterm labor. Significant differences in cell type composition and transcriptional profiles were found among placental compartments and across study groups. For the first time, two cell types were identified: 1) lymphatic endothelial decidual cells in the chorioamniotic membranes, and 2) non-proliferative interstitial cytotrophoblasts in the placental villi. Maternal macrophages from the chorioamniotic membranes displayed the largest differences in gene expression (e.g. NFKB1) in both processes of labor; yet, specific gene expression changes were also detected in preterm labor. Importantly, several placental scRNA-seq transcriptional signatures were modulated with advancing gestation in the maternal circulation, and specific immune cell type signatures were increased with labor at term (NK-cell and activated T-cell) and with preterm labor (macrophage, monocyte, and activated T-cell). Herein, we provide a catalogue of cell types and transcriptional profiles in the human placenta, shedding light on the molecular underpinnings and non-invasive prediction of the physiologic and pathologic parturition.

One sentence summary

The common molecular pathway of parturition for both term and preterm spontaneous labor is characterized using single cell gene expression analysis of the human placenta.
Metabolic response to point mutations reveals principles of modulation of in vivo enzyme activity and phenotype
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sanchari , Bershtein Shimon , Adkar Bharat V. , Woodard Jaie , Shakhnovich Eugene I.
Published: August 2019

The relationship between sequence variation and phenotype is poorly understood. Here we use metabolomic analysis to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying the filamentous phenotype of E. coli strains that carry destabilizing mutations in Dihydrofolate Reductase (DHFR). We find that partial loss of DHFR activity causes reversible filamentation despite SOS response indicative of DNA damage, in contrast to thymineless death (TLD) achieved by complete inhibition of DHFR activity by high concentrations of antibiotic Trimethoprim. This phenotype is triggered by a disproportionate drop in intracellular dTTP, which could not be explained by drop in dTMP based on the Michaelis-Menten like in vitro activity curve of Thymidylate Kinase (Tmk), a downstream enzyme that phosphorylates dTMP to dTDP. Instead, we show that a highly cooperative (Hill coefficient 2.5) in vivo activity of Tmk is the cause of suboptimal dTTP levels. dTMP supplementation rescues filamentation and restores in vivo Tmk kinetics to Michaelis-Menten. Overall, this study highlights the important role of cellular environment in sculpting enzymatic kinetics with system level implications for bacterial phenotype.
A major locus controls a biologically active pheromone component inHeliconius melpomene
Authors: Byers Kelsey J.R.P. , Darragh Kathy , Musgrove Jamie , Almeida Diana Abondano , Garza Sylvia Fernanda , Warren Ian A. , Rastas Pasi M. , Kučka Marek , Chan Yingguang Frank , Merrill Richard M. , Schulz Stefan , McMillan W. Owen , Jiggins Chris D.
Published: August 2019

Understanding the production, response, and genetics of signals used in mate choice can inform our understanding of the evolution of both intraspecific mate choice and reproductive isolation. Sex pheromones are important for courtship and mate choice in many insects, but we know relatively little of their role in butterflies. The butterflyHeliconius melpomeneuses a complex blend of wing androconial compounds during courtship. Electroantennography inH. melpomeneand its close relativeH. cydnoshowed that responses to androconial extracts were not species-specific. Females of both species responded equally strongly to extracts of both species, suggesting conservation of peripheral nervous system elements across the two species. Individual blend components provoked little to no response, with the exception of octadecanal, a major component of theH. melpomeneblend. Supplementing octadecanal on the wings of octadecanal-richH. melpomenemales led to an increase in the time until mating, demonstrating the bioactivity of octadecanal inHeliconius.Using quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping, we identified a single locus on chromosome 20 responsible for 41% of the parental species’ difference in octadecanal production. This QTL does not overlap with any of the major wing color or mate choice loci, nor does it overlap with known regions of elevated or reducedFST. A set of 16 candidate fatty acid biosynthesis genes lies underneath the QTL. Pheromones inHeliconiuscarry information relevant for mate choice and are under simple genetic control, suggesting they could be important during speciation.
The etiological classification of the epilepsies: A brain network underpinning?
Authors: Slinger Geertruida , Otte Willem M. , Noorlag Lotte , Jansen Floor E. , Braun Kees P.J. , van Diessen Eric
Published: August 2019

Objective

the current epilepsy classification is primarily clinical driven and lacks a mechanistic basis. A mechanistic basis of the classification, and within the classification especially the etiology layer, may help to better understand epilepsy and the associated comorbidities. It may also be helpful in guiding epilepsy treatment. With this study we aimed to investigate if there is a modelled mechanistic underpinning for the etiological epilepsy classification by assessing the association between epilepsy etiology and brain network topology.

Methods

to that aim we assessed the association between epilepsy etiology and brain network topology. We included children referred to our outpatient first seizure clinic with suspected epilepsy who had a standard interictal EEG recording. From these EEGs, functional networks were constructed based on eyes-closed resting state time-series. Networks were characterized using measures of segregation, integration, centrality, and network strength. Principal component analyses were used to assess whether patients with epilepsy of similar etiology cluster together based on their functional brain network topology.

Results

in total, 228 children with epilepsy were included. Another 402 children served as control subjects. We were not able to detect a correlation between epilepsy etiology and functional brain network topology. We also did not find a difference in brain network topology between the controls and patients with epilepsy.

Conclusions

our results do not support the presence of a brain network underpinning for the etiological epilepsy classification. This may support the hypothesis that brain network abnormalities in epilepsy are a result of ongoing seizure activity rather than the epilepsy etiology itself. Further in-depth analyses of network measures and longitudinal studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Three rare disease diagnoses in one patient through exome sequencing
Authors: Ferrer Alejandro , Schultz-Rogers Laura , Kaiwar Charu , Kemppainen Jennifer L. , Klee Eric W. , Gavrilova Ralitza H.
Published: August 2019

Diagnostic exome sequencing yields a single genetic diagnosis in ∼30% of cases, and according to recent studies the prevalence of identifying two genetic conditions in a single individual range between 4.6% and 7%. We present a patient diagnosed with three different rare conditions, each explained by a pathogenic variant in a different gene. A 17-yr-old female was evaluated for a history of motor and speech delay, scoliosis, distinctive craniofacial features, and dry skin in the Department of Clinical Genomics at Mayo Clinic. Her distinctive features included prominent forehead, epicanthus, depressed nasal bridge, narrow mouth, prognathism, malar flattening, and oligodontia. Family history was notable for dry skin in her mother and missing teeth in the paternal grandmother. Previous diagnostic testing was unrevealing including biochemical testing, echocardiogram, abdominal ultrasound, and electroencephalogram. Previous genetic testing included a microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization that was reported normal. Three pathogenic loss-of-function heterozygous variants were identified by exome trio sequencing, each linked to different genetic conditions: SIN3A (Witteveen–Kolk syndrome), FLG (dermatitis), and EDAR (ectodermal dysplasia). Together, these three genetic alterations could explain the patient's overall phenotype. This patient demonstrates the importance of performing a thorough curation of exome data when presented with a complex phenotype. Although phenotypic variability can explain some of these situations, the hypothesis of multiple diseases coexisting in a single patient should never be disregarded completely.
Synchrotron in situ studies of mechanical activation treatment and γ-radiation impact on structural-phase transitions and high-temperature synthesis parameters during the formation of γ-(TiAl) compound
Authors: Loginova Marina , Sobachkin Alexey , Sitnikov Alexander , Yakovlev Vladimir , Filimonov Valeriy , Myasnikov Andrey , Sharafutdinov Marat , Tolochko Boris , Gradoboev Alexander
Published: August 2019

In situ synchrotron studies of structure and phase formation dynamics in mechanically activated (t = 7 min, power density 40 g) and mechanically activated with subsequent irradiation by γ-quanta 60Co powder mixture (Ti 64 wt% + Al) during high-temperature synthesis by the method of thermal explosion using induction heating are described. In situ high-temperature synthesis was carried out on the created experimental complex adapted for synchrotron X-ray diffraction methods. The sequence of formation and time–temperature interval of the metastable and main phases were determined. The impact of preliminary mechanical activation and of γ-irradiation on the macrokinetic parameters of the synthesis were studied experimentally in situ. It has been established that the impact of γ-irradiation on the mechanically activated powder mixture of the composition Ti 64 wt% + Al leads to a change in the thermal parameters of combustion: the maximum synthesis temperature and the burning rate decrease. The heating rate for the non-irradiated mixture is 204.8 K s−1 and that for the irradiated mixture is 81.6 K s−1. The dependences of mass fractions of the synthesized compounds on time and temperature were calculated from the stage of preheating until completion of the thermal explosion. A single-phase equilibrium product of the composition γ-(TiAl) is formed in γ-irradiated mechanically activated mixture when the system reaches maximum temperature. The synthesized product of the mechanically activated mixture without γ-irradiation contains 72% γ-(TiAl); TiAl3 (26%) and residual Ti (2%) are also observed.
Three new ZnII coordination polymers constructed from a semi-rigid tricarboxylic acid: structural changes caused by flexibility and luminescence sensing for hexavalent chromate anions
Authors: An Yanyan , Lu Liping , Zhu Miaoli
Published: August 2019

Coordination polymers (CPs) with specific structures and functional luminescence have been widely designed as sensors for detecting small molecules and ions. In this study, with or without the help of an N-donor auxiliary linker, three new ZnII CPs, namely, three-dimensional (3D) poly[[pentaaquabis[μ3-5-(4-carboxybenzyloxy)isophthalato]bis[μ6-5-(4-carboxylatobenzyloxy)isophthalato]di-μ3-hydroxido-hexazinc(II)] trihydrate], {[Zn6(C16H10O7)2(C16H9O7)2(OH)2(H2O)5]·3H2O}
n
or {[Zn6(μ3-HL)2(μ6-L)2(μ3-OH)2(H2O)5]·3H2O}
n
, (I), one-dimensional (1D) catena-poly[[[aqua(1,10-phenanthroline)zinc(II)]-μ2-5-(4-carboxybenzyloxy)isophthalato] dihydrate], {[Zn(C16H10O7)(C12H8N2)(H2O)]·2H2O}
n
or {[Zn(μ2-HL)(phen)(H2O)]·2H2O}
n
(phen is 1,10-phenanthroline), (II), and 3D poly[diaquatetrakis(4,4′-bipyridine)bis[μ6-5-(4-carboxylatobenzyloxy)isophthalato]di-μ3-formato-di-μ3-hydroxido-pentazinc(II)], [Zn5(C16H9O7)2(HCOO)2(OH)2(C10H8N2)4(H2O)2]
n
or [Zn5(μ4-L)2(bpy)4(μ2-OH)2(μ3-HCOO)2(H2O)2]
n
(bpy is 4,4′-bipyridine), (III), have been constructed from the semi-rigid tricarboxylic acid 5-(4-carboxybenzyloxy)isophthalic acid (H3
L) under hydrothermal conditions. CP (I) exhibits a twofold interpenetrated 3D+3D→3D skeleton with a 3,5-conn topology constructed from triangular trinuclear [Zn3(COO)4(μ3-OH)] clusters, in which the H3
L ligand adopts three different coordination modes. CP (II) exhibits a 1D infinite chain and stacking that gives a 3D structure mediated by hydrogen bonds and weak interactions. CP (III) is an interesting 3D 3,4,8-conn network including linear tetranuclear [Zn4(μ2-OH)2(HCOO)2(COO)2] clusters with a new {4·62}2{4·64·8}{46·619·83} topological symbol. The influences of the flexible –CH2–O– linker of the H3
L ligand and subtle environmental factors, such as solvent, pH value and auxiliary ligands, on the formation of the final structures are also discussed. The solid-state fluorescence spectra of CPs (I)–(III) were recorded at room temperature and all show better fluorescence performances than H3
L. In particular, (II) can act as a potential multifunctional fluorescent material for sensing hexavalent chromium ions in aqueous solution with high stability, selectivity and sensitivity. Under ultraviolet light of 365 nm from a UV lamp, a signal response of fluorescence from turning on to off can be observed with the naked eye. It was found that the detection for hexavalent chromium (i.e. Cr2O7
2−) by (II) has a high selectivity [K
SV = 1.61 × 104
M
−1 and limit of detection (LOD) = 0.434 µM] in aqueous solution. Quenching mechanisms were also studied in detail.
Efficient and reliable surge prevention algorithm for centrifugal compressor
Authors: Liśkiewicz Grzegorz
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The paper aims to present an outline of the technology of the active anti-surge algorithm based on high-frequency pressure measurement. The presented system is fast, inexpensive and reliable and does not limit the machine-operating range. Many contemporary anti-surge systems are based on theoretical surge margin. This solution limits machine operating range by about 10-15 per cent in the region of the highest pressure ratios. It is also often sensitive to change in external conditions such as temperature or density, as the system reacts to limits calculated theoretically.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents results of pressure measurements obtained on the low-speed centrifugal blower DP1.12. The pressure signals were presented in the form of phase diagrams, and conclusions were drawn from their phase portraits to develop the surge indication parameter.

Findings

The presented safety system uses the signal to develop the so-called (rate of derivative fluctuation) RDF parameter. In nominal working conditions, this parameter keeps the value close to 1. When RDF reaches values over 3, the anti-surge procedure should be implemented. Experimental studies have shown that this algorithm assures enough time to incur actions suppressing unstable phenomena.

Originality/value

The system reacts to real machine working conditions and is hence reliable. The RDF algorithm could also be used to identify local flow instabilities, as well as off-design operation.
Accounting changes and beyond budgeting principles (BBP) in the public sector
Authors: Alsharari Nizar Mohammad
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the process of accounting changes and beyond budgeting principles (BBP) in the public sector as influenced by the institutional framework. It also looks beyond the outcomes of implementing budgeting changes to take into account the complexities of the factors that drive and shape the cumulative processes of accounting change.

Design/methodology/approach

The study presents the results of an interpretive case study in the Jordan Customs (JC) as good evidence from developing countries. It uses the triangulation of data collection methods including interviews, observations, and documents and archival records.

Findings

The paper found that JC changes to their accounting systems were influenced by the BBP, with the new budgeting systems implemented based on reconsideration and re-enacting of theoretical accounting bases and procedures. As a result, the accounting changes were managed by modifying the laws and regulations. Among the accounting changes included in the Beyond Budgeting (BB) approach in JC was relative performance evaluation, as an alternative to fixed budget targets. Rolling forecasts were prepared the BB and were employed in JC’s revenues section and the technical aspects of preparing those relied on E-views software. Most BBP were successfully implemented as values, controls, teams, goals, rewards, resources, coordination and governance. Other BBP have faced some resistance in areas of transparency, trust and accountability.

Research limitations/implications

The paper uses the case study approach that yielded insightful lessons. It reveals the organizational interaction with the external environment and how BBP is influenced and shaped by isomorphic pressures. It also shows the successful and unsuccessful BBP with-(out) resistance in the public sector. This paper has important implications for change dynamics that can emerge from a BBP approach at the institutional level. It also explains the interaction between the “external” origins and “internal” accounts, which identified that accounting is both shaped by and shaping socio-economic and political processes. This broad sensitivity to the nature of accounting has important implications for how accounting change along with BBP is studied.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the few case studies in the accounting literature on organizations that change budgeting practice by adopting BBP. The study provides a detailed explanation of the dynamics of accounting changes through BBP in the public sector. It also provides pieces of evidence about the IPSAS and public accounting reforms in developing countries.
Public management systems, accounting education, and compliance with international public sector accounting standards in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Sellami Yosra Mnif , Gafsi Yosra
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the transparency and completeness of government financial reporting in sub-Saharan African countries by assessing the extent of compliance with IPSAS disclosures and to investigate the impact of the strength of public management systems (SPMS) and accounting education on this level.

Design/methodology/approach

This research develops a self-constructed disclosure index from content analysis and applies panel regressions for a sample of 60 sub-Saharan African government entities during the period 2014–2017.

Findings

The study results indicate that IPSAS disclosure levels significantly vary across sub-Saharan African governments. They reveal a positive effect of the SPMS and accounting education on the extent of compliance with IPSAS in this region.

Practical implications

The study findings are of interest to practitioners, researchers, government policy makers, supervisory authorities and professional bodies. By focusing on the effect of the SPMS and accounting education on IPSAS disclosure level, this paper leaves room for future research to investigate other relevant factors associated with the compliance with these standards whether in sub-Saharan Africa or in other parts of the world.

Originality/value

This paper gives new insights into the assessment of the quality and transparency of government financial reporting in sub-Saharan Africa by examining the extent of compliance with IPSAS in this region. It is the first to investigate the impact of the SPMS and accounting education on this level.
Determinants of digital learning acceptance behavior
Authors: Kaushik Mohit Kant , Verma Deepak
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review existing literature on users’ digital learning acceptance behavior and to identify gaps in the current body of knowledge and suggest future research directions. The paper also includes identification of motivating as well as inhibiting factors previously explored by academicians in the acceptance of digital learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The systematic literature review based on PRISMA methodology was conducted, and 200 articles from peer-reviewed journals on digital learning acceptance behavior using technology adoption theories were examined.

Findings

The study found an overall rise in the number of papers published yearly during 2002–2017. Most of the studies were published in two journals, i.e. Computers & Education and Computers in Human Behaviour and were carried out in Asia followed by Europe, North America, Africa, Oceania and South America. It was also noted that most of the studies have used the technology acceptance model and were empirical in nature. The study also found that prominently students’ digital learning acceptance behavior was investigated. The review also indicates a lack of qualitative and mixed method (qualitative and quantitative) approaches to study digital learning acceptance behavior.

Practical implications

The study identified gaps in the current body of knowledge by reviewing published articles that will suggest future directions for further research. The top three determinants of digital learning acceptance that have been analyzed were the behavioral intention, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, followed by attitude and user behavior. The study articulates the implications for providers in marketing digital learning products, for higher education institution in expanding digital content, for students seeking digital education tools, for educators in motivating students to accept digital learning and for governments in delivering cost-effective public education by utilizing digital learning.

Originality/value

The paper analyzes 200 publications on digital learning acceptance through technology adoption theories. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first initiative to provide systematic and exhaustive summarization of the knowledge in this subject. It further explores the various factors influencing digital learning adoption behavior and provides avenues for future research. The paper is useful for researchers working on digital learning acceptance behavior.
Functional diversity is a passenger but not driver of drought‐related plant diversity losses in annual grasslands
Authors: Miller Jesse E. D. , Li Daijiang , LaForgia Marina , Harrison Susan
Published: August 2019

Effects of climate change on plant community functional diversity are of interest since experiments have found functional diversity to predict ecosystem function. Functional diversity has been hypothesized to confer resilience to plant communities (as a “driver” of community change), but in unmanipulated natural communities, it might alternatively (or additionally) act as a “passenger” by responding to changes in plant diversity caused by extrinsic factors such as climate.

We examined trends in plant functional diversity in annual grasslands in Northern California over a 19‐year period, during which a trend towards drier winters had previously been associated with the losses of drought‐intolerant species. We tested whether functional diversity decreased over the period of the study (acting as a passenger), and also whether initial site functional diversity influenced the degree of community change over the study period (acting as a driver).

Initial community functional diversity was not related to species richness loss or community variability. We found that functional diversity declined as plant species richness and community mean specific leaf area declined over the course of the study, and all of these trends were associated with declining precipitation, indicating that functional diversity acted as a passenger of community change.

Synthesis. This study is among the first to demonstrate that recent climatic trends may drive loss of functional diversity. Our findings highlight that functional diversity does not necessarily confer community resilience when its variation is shaped by the environment rather than by experimental treatments.
Functional response of subordinate species to intraspecific trait variability within dominant species
Authors: Khalil Mohammed I. , Gibson David J. , Baer Sara G.
Published: August 2019

Dominant species can act as a biotic filter in structuring plant communities by constraining the establishment and survival of subordinate species. The effect of intraspecific trait variability of dominant species on the functional response of subordinate species, however, is not well understood.

We quantified intraspecific variation in four functional traits of 26 subordinate species in an experimental grassland established with two population sources (i.e. cultivars and local ecotypes) of three dominant grasses (Sorghastrum nutans, Andropogon gerardii and Schizachyrium scoparium) and three pools of subordinate species (each from one origin) within each of the dominant grass source treatments.

Twenty of the 26 subordinate species exhibited intraspecific trait variability for one trait or more in response to dominant species population source, and variation among population sources of the dominant species was non‐random. Dominant grass population source affected intraspecific variability in functional traits of multiple subordinate species. Cultivar sources of the dominant grasses and some of the subordinate species that established with them had higher and generally more variable functional leaf area and leaf nitrogen content compared to local ecotypes of the dominant grasses and the subordinate species that established with them. Local ecotype sources of the dominant grasses increased leaf area based functional diversity of subordinate species.

Synthesis. This study provides evidence that intraspecific trait variability in dominant species acts as a biotic filter to constrain niche availability and dimensionality affecting trait variation of subordinate species during community assembly.
Inhibitory and nutrient use phenotypes among coexisting Fusarium and Streptomyces populations suggest local coevolutionary interactions in soil
Authors: Essarioui Adil , LeBlanc Nicholas , Otto‐Hanson Lindsey , Schlatter Daniel Cameron , Kistler Harold Corby , Kinkel Linda L.
Published: August 2019

Bacteria and fungi are key components of virtually all natural habitats, yet the significance of fungal‐bacterial inhibitory interactions for the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of specific bacterial and fungal populations in natural habitats have been overlooked. More specifically, despite the broad consensus that antibiotics play a key role in providing a fitness advantage to competing microbes, the significance of antibiotic production in mediating cross‐kingdom coevolutionary interactions has received relatively little attention. Here, we characterize reciprocal inhibition among Streptomyces and Fusarium populations from prairie soil, and explore antibiotic inhibition in relation to niche overlap among sympatric and allopatric populations. We found evidence for local adaptation between Fusarium and Streptomyces populations as indicated by significantly greater inhibition among sympatric than allopatric populations. Additionally, for both taxa, there was a significant positive correlation between the strength of inhibition against the other taxon and the intensity of resource competition from that taxon among sympatric but not allopatric populations. These data suggest that coevolutionary antagonistic interactions between Fusarium and Streptomyces are driven by resource competition, and support the hypothesis that antibiotics act as weapons in mediating bacterial–fungal interactions in soil.
‘In the hospital all is taken care of’: a practice‐theoretical approach to understand patients’ medication use
Authors: Reichenpfader Ursula , Wickström Anette , Abrandt Dahlgren Madeleine , Carlfjord Siw
Published: August 2019

Drawing from case examples of medication review implementation in three hospital settings in Sweden, this article examines patients’ medication use. Based on a practice theory approach and utilising data from interviews with patients and participant observation, we reconstruct three practices of everyday medication use centring on accepting, challenging or appropriating medication orders. This article argues that patients’ medication practices are embedded in wider practice arrangements that afford different modes of agency. Reconceptualising patients’ medication use from a practice‐based perspective revealed the meaning‐making, order‐producing and identity‐forming features of these practices. Also, we illustrated how different modes of agency were achieved in patients’ medication practices, suggesting a fluidity of both the meanings attached to and the identities related to medication use. Our findings have practical implications as these practices of medication use can be transformed when altering the arrangements they are embedded in, thus going beyond the clinical encounter.
Comparing Imitation Responding and IBT for children with ASD, a preschool intervention
Authors: Spjut Janson Birgitta , Heimann Mikael , Tjus Tomas
Published: August 2019

The present study examined the effectiveness of two interventions, Imitation Responding (IR) and Intensive Behavior Treatment (IBT) used as initial treatment programs for autistic children enrolled in ordinary preschools. The interventions were carried out by parents and/or preschool teachers with supervision from Child Adolescent Habilitation and Health Clinics. Children were randomly assigned to either the IR group or the IBT group. The IR group received a new focused imitation treatment averaging 2.2 hours per week, while the children in the IBT group received 14.4 hours treatment per week. The outcome was measured with subscales from PEP‐3 and Vineland‐II, covering language and social domains. The between‐group comparison revealed no significant differences in effect of treatment during the 5 months that encompassed the period from pre‐ to posttest. Within‐group comparisons revealed significant changes on four subscales for the IR‐group, with the highest effect sizes for play and expressive language, while for the children in the IBT‐group a significant gain was evident for five subscales with the highest effect sizes observed for expressive and receptive language. These findings suggest that IR can be used as an initial and complementary method in settings where IBT is usually the primary treatment of choice.
Commercial Mortgage‐Backed Security Pricing with Real Estate Liquidity Risk
Authors: Chen Peimin , Kozhanov Igor , Liu Peng , Wu Chunchi
Published: August 2019

We propose a structural model with liquidity frictions at the property level for the pricing of commercial mortgages. The model shows that a moderate liquidity shock has a sizable effect on mortgage default risk. The sensitivities of default rates to volatility of property prices, cash payout and interest rates, all increase significantly as liquidity deteriorates. Empirical evidence strongly supports model predictions. The results suggest that failing to account for the effect of real estate illiquidity leads to substantial bias in estimation of default risk, the optimal subordination level and valuation of the structured products.
Determining the surgical quality improvement model by outcome monitoring in Hong Kong public hospitals
Authors: Cheung Yue‐Sun , Fung Anthony Shu‐Yan , Lai Paul Bo‐San
Published: August 2019

Aim

Reduction in the surgical mortality has been observed in Hong Kong public hospitals after the implementation of the Surgical Outcomes Monitoring and Improvement Program (SOMIP). The aim of the present study was to identify factors and strategies that allow surgeons to improve their outcome after the implementation of the SOMIP.

Patients and Methods

A qualitative study among surgeons in SOMIP‐participating hospitals using semistructured interviews was performed, with questions focused on knowledge of the SOMIP, comments on SOMIP methodology and actions taken by hospitals to drive quality improvement.

Results

Fifteen surgeons from five public hospitals in Hong Kong were recruited. The provision of objective data, culture change, surgeons' motivation to improve, advice from external reviewers, leadership and support from administration were identified as factors driving outcome improvement after the implementation of the SOMIP. Most surgeons strongly agreed that SOMIP can be used as a quality improvement tool and there was a need to disclose hospital results.

Conclusions

A risk‐adjusted, outcome‐based, quality improvement program could provide objective data as feedback to surgical units and benchmark with peers. Together with the driving force from public reporting, change in culture, appropriate resource allocation and service planning, improvement in the structure, process and outcome can be achieved.
Association of UCMA levels in serum and synovial fluid with severity of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Okuyan Hamza Malik , Terzi Menderes Yusuf , Ozcan Oguzhan , Kalaci Aydiner
Published: August 2019

Aim

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common joint diseases causing physical disability in the aged population. OA pathogenesis is not fully known and yet there are no effective therapeutic options against OA. Upper Zone of Growth Plate and Cartilage Matrix Associated (UCMA) is a member of vitamin K‐dependent protein family, and is involved in inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and OA. In the present study, our aim was to detect serum and synovial fluid (SF) levels of UCMA and to analyze their correlation with radiographic findings and symptomatic severity in OA patients as well as the correlation between oxidative stress levels and SF UCMA levels.

Methods

Forty OA patients with cartilage degeneration and 20 patients with other knee joint disorders (non‐OA control) were included in the present study. We used the Kellgren‐Lawrence (KL) classification and Western Ontario McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores to assess radiographic grading and symptomatic severity of OA, respectively. UCMA levels were measured in SF and serum. And also oxidative stress markers were analyzed in SF.

Results

SF UCMA levels of OA patients were higher compared to those of the non‐OA control group and were positively correlated with radiographic finding and symptomatic severity of OA. However, there was no significant correlation between oxidative markers of SF and the KL grade, WOMAC scores, and SF UCMA levels in OA patients.

Conclusion

There is a close connection between UCMA SF levels and symptomatic and radiographic severities of knee OA. Therefore, UCMA can be a promising biomarker in the diagnosis and/or prognosis of OA disease.
Serotonin syndrome masquerading as disease flare in lupus nephritis with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Navarroza Rodeo V. , Zamora Leonid D. , Navarra Sandra V.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life‐threatening condition characterized by the triad of mental status changes, autonomic instability, and neuromuscular changes. We report a case of serotonin syndrome masquerading as disease flare in a lupus nephritis patient with end‐stage renal disease receiving linezolid for the treatment of infected pseudoaneurysm.

Case report

A 36‐year‐old female lupus nephritis patient on maintenance hemodialysis for end‐stage renal disease had been on multiple antibiotics, including anti‐tuberculosis medications, over the past month for infected pseudoaneurysm complicating her arteriovenous fistula. Due to minimal response, she underwent pseudoaneurysmal ligation and given linezolid. Two days later, she developed chest pain, tachycardia, hypertension, tremors, later accompanied by high‐grade fever, diarrhea, insomnia, and body weakness. Although fully awake and oriented, she was markedly agitated, mildly icteric, had hyperreflexia and asthenia with proximal muscle strength graded 3/5 in all extremities. Blood counts revealed anemia and thrombocytopenia; ancillary tests showed aspartate aminotransferase markedly higher than alanine aminotransferase, elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase, and low C3 levels. Intravenous hydrocortisone was started for a suspected lupus flare. On the background of linezolid, isoniazid, and tramadol administration, serotonin syndrome with rhabdomyolysis was strongly considered. Offending drugs were discontinued, resulting in the dramatic improvement of symptoms and improved strength and well‐being. The steroid was successfully tapered to 5 mg/day and a week later, she remained afebrile without recurrence of symptoms.

Conclusion

Serotonin syndrome should be considered in patients on multiple serotonergic agents on the background of end‐stage renal disease. Prompt recognition and distinction from lupus activity can significantly impact management decisions.
Craving Mediates the Relation Between Impulsivity and Alcohol Consumption Among University Students
Authors: Flaudias Valentin , Maurage Pierre , Izaute Marie , de Chazeron Ingrid , Brousse Georges , Chakroun‐Baggioni Nadia
Published: August 2019

Background and Objectives

The relationship between impulsivity and craving in severe alcohol use disorders is well established, but the presence and characteristics of this link in University students are still to be established. The present study aims to better understand the relationship between impulsivity and craving in university students and to determine the influence of these variables on alcohol consumption characteristics.

Methods

A large sample of university students (N = 1055, mean age: 20.9 years; 713 women) completed an online questionnaire to evaluate alcohol use, impulsivity, and craving.

Results

Linear regression analysis demonstrated that the compulsive dimensions of craving (P < .001), sensation seeking (P < .001), and lack of premeditation (P < .001) constitute strong predictors of current consumption. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis determined the threshold level above which craving intensity can identify specific high‐risk populations. A mediation analysis showed that craving has a partial mediator effect on the impact of impulsivity on alcohol consumption for this population (37,8%, P < .001).

Discussion and Conclusions

The sensation seeking and lack of premeditation dimensions of impulsivity, coupled with compulsive craving, are efficient predictors of excessive alcohol consumption for university students. The partial mediator effect of craving is important in terms of characterizing the relationship between impulsivity and alcohol consumption.

Scientific Significance

Our study centrally shows that the interaction between elevated levels of impulsivity and craving constitute a crucial risk factor for alcohol consumption in university students, and should thus constitute a target for primary prevention programs (Am J Addict 2019;00:00–00).
In War and Peace: Shifting Narratives of Violence in Kurdish Istanbul
Authors: Günay Onur
Published: August 2019

In this article, I draw on two years of ethnographic research to explore the multiple and contradictory ways Kurdish working‐class men in Istanbul imagine, narrate, and conceptualize violence. How Kurdish workers remember and publicly speak of violence, self‐defense, and retribution has notably changed in the context of the resurgence of the war between the Turkish state and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). I came to understand this storytelling of violence, omnipresent in all the social infrastructures of male Kurdish life in Istanbul, as a form of communicative labor through which a distinct historical consciousness and shared understandings of violence are created, networks for survival and dignity engendered, and moral selves crafted. These narratives refuse interpretation of the ongoing Kurdish struggle as mere terrorism or victimhood and instead recuperate Kurdish agency and counterviolence. In these narratives, “defense of the community” not only asserts peoples’ right to exist but also charges just violence with moral significance, turning those who protect their community against state violence into aspirational figures. [violence, narrative, morality, war and peace, memory, Kurds, Turkey]