bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RhoGEF9 splice isoforms influence neuronal maturation and synapse formation downstream ofα2 GABAAreceptors
Authors: deGroot Claire , Floriou-Servou Amalia , Tsai Yuan-Chen , Früh Simon , Kohler Manuela , Parkin Georgia , Schwerdel Cornelia , Bosshard Giovanna , Kaila Kai , Fritschy Jean-Marc , Tyagarajan Shiva K.
Published: October 2017

In developing brain neuronal migration, dendrite outgrowth and dendritic spine outgrowth are controlled by Cdc42, a small GTPase of the Rho family, and its activators. Cdc42 function in promoting actin polymerization is crucial for glutamatergic synapse regulation. Here, we focus on GABAergic synapse-specific activator of Cdc42, collybistin (CB) and examine functional differences between its splice isoforms CB1 and CB2. We report that CB1 and CB2 differentially regulate GABAergic synapse formationin vitroalong proximal-distal axis and adult-born neuron maturationin vivo. The functional specialization between CB1 and CB2 isoforms arises from their differential protein half-life, in turn regulated by ubiquitin conjugation of the unique CB1 C-terminus. We report that CB1 and CB2 negatively regulate Cdc42; however, Cdc42 activation is dependent on CB interaction with gephyrin. During hippocampal adult neurogenesis CB1 regulates neuronal migration, while CB2 is essential for dendrite outgrowth. Finally, using mice lackingGabra2subunit, we show that CB1 function is downstream of GABAARs, and we can rescue adult neurogenesis deficit observed inGabra2KO. Overall, our results uncover previously unexpected role for CB isoforms downstream of α2-containing GABAARs during neuron maturation in a Cdc42 dependent mechanism.

Author Summary

GABAergic inhibition regulates distinct stages of brain development; however, cellular mechanisms downstream of GABAAreceptors (GABAARs) that influence neuronal migration, maturation and synaptogenesis are less clear.ArfGEF9encodes for RhoGEF with Cdc42 and TC10 GTPase as its substrates. Interestingly, ArhGEF9 is the only known RhoGEF essential for GABAergic synapse formation and maintenance. We report that during brain development ArfGEF9 mRNA splicing regulation generates different ratios of CB1 and CB2 splice isoforms. CB1 mRNA splicing is enhanced during early brain developmental, while CB2 levels remains constant throughout brain development. We also show that CB1 protein has shorter half-life and ubiquitin proteasome system restricts CB1 abundance within developing neuron to modulate neuron migration and distributing GABAergic synapse along the proximal-distal axis. On the other hand, CB2 isoform although expressed abundantly throughout brain development is essential for neuron dendrite maturation. Together, our data identifies specific post-transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms downstream of GABAARs influencing ArhGEF9 function to regulate distinct aspects of neuronal maturation process.
Females prefer cooperative males even when cooperative behavior is unobserved: evidence from the mound-building mouse,Mus spicilegus
Authors: Tognetti Arnaud , Raymond Michel , Ganem Guila , Faurie Charlotte
Published: October 2017

Theoretical and empirical studies in humans suggest that cooperative behaviors may act as signals during mate choice. However, cooperation is not always observable by potential partners before mate choice. To address whether cooperative phenotypes are preferred based on cues different from cooperative behaviorsper se,we designed an experimental paradigm using wild-born mound-building mice (Mus spicilegus), a species with biparental care. In this species, females cannot observe male cooperative behaviors: mate choice occurs in the spring, whereas mounds are cooperatively built in the fall. We first assessed the variation in mound building investment and identified males exhibiting high and low amounts of cooperation. Second, we presented these males to females during two-way choice tests. As offspring survival relies on mound protection, we hypothesized that mound building could be a form of paternal care and assessed whether cooperative males were more involved in offspring attendance using pup-retrieval experiments. Our results indicate that females were more attracted to highly cooperative males over less cooperative, even when they did not observe them build. This finding suggests that female mate choice is influenced either by cues of cooperativeness different than cooperative behaviors or by preferences for traits associated with cooperativeness. Moreover, male offspring attendance was negatively correlated with cooperativeness, suggesting the potential existence of two alternative paternal strategies in offspring care (mound building versus offspring attendance). Overall, our findings support the existence of preference for cooperative phenotypes in a non-human species and suggest that sexual selection might be involved in the evolution of cooperation.
Parachuting internationalization: a study of four Scandinavian firms entering China
Authors: Fang Tony , Tung Rosalie L. , Berg Linda , Nematshahi Nazanin
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a “parachuting internationalization” metaphor as an alternative strategy that firms may choose to enter foreign markets compared to Uppsala Model and Born Global Model. This proposed new metaphor seeks to integrate the Uppsala and the Born Global Models to show that firms can attain success in the age of globalization if they are adept at devising creative strategies that help them overcome the challenges in a psychically distant environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a research paper that develops theoretical perspectives inspired by the Yin Yang thinking as well as the “thick descriptive” multiple case studies.

Findings

“Parachuting internationalization” embraces essential elements of the Born Global and the Uppsala Models and refers to a firm’s strategic targeting of markets with great potentials, correct positioning, swift actions, and fast learning, thus enabling the firm to circumvent the conventional wisdom of liability of foreignness, cultural distance, and psychic distance. “Parachuting internationalization” is essentially a GLOCAL approach which can be implemented in practice in terms of global vision, location, opportunity, capital, accelerated cultural learning and quick action, and logistics.

Research limitations/implications

The “parachuting internationalization” metaphor is derived from interviews with four Scandinavian firms’ experiences that have entered into the Chinese market. This research reveals that two seemingly opposite approaches, i.e., the Born Global and the Uppsala Models, can be fruitfully combined and reconciled to generate a third novel approach.

Originality/value

To date, there has been little attempt to reconcile and/or integrate the Born Global and the Uppsala Models of internationalization. The paper enriches the ongoing debate on the internationalization of firms in the international business literature that has relied primarily on the Uppsala Model or Born Global Model. The study shows that a third way, i.e. the “parachuting internationalization” is both theoretically innovative and practically feasible.
A passage to France: skilled Indian SIEs in transition
Authors: Mielly Michelle , Jones Catherine , Smith Mark , Basistha Vikram
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the experience of self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) moving from the global South to the global North. It considers the relationship between country of origin and host country, the role of non-traditional destinations and the choices made by SIEs.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted with Indian SIEs and key experts to explore the motives, identities and life narratives of skilled expatriate Indians in France.

Findings

The results shed light on how individuals’ careers are fashioned through the intersection of identities; highlighting the interplay between country of origin and the host country as a catalyst in SIEs’ choice of destination. Furthermore, the authors demonstrate a strategic form of agency exercised through these SIEs’ choice of an unconventional destination.

Research limitations/implications

The intricate nature of SIE trajectories holds implications for migration theory, diaspora studies and career theory. SIEs from the Global South adopt varying strategies linked to specific host-country career offerings, often in sharp contrast with home-country opportunities.

Practical implications

The results inform managerial and policy-maker understandings of career motivations for mobile skilled workers moving for career and lifestyle. For countries seeking to attract talent, the findings demonstrate the roles of host-country immigration policy, country reputation and perceived career opportunities.

Originality/value

This study helps address research gaps in relation self-initiated expatriation from the Global South to the North. At the same time, it identifies the potential for transitional spaces and the relationship between countries, identity-formation factors and career agency. These findings on France as a transitional space – one of intermediacy and in-betweenness, where self-identity and future career projections can be re-imagined and reshaped – shed new light on how SIEs and their movements can be conceptualized.
Developing international talents: how organisational and individual perspectives interact
Authors: Hirt Christian , Ortlieb Renate , Winterheller Julian , Bešić Almina , Scheff Josef
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Focusing on an international trainee- and internship programme, this paper aims to propose a new framework that links organisational strategies regarding ethnic diversity with career competencies of the programme participants.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a case study design. It examines the interplay of the perspectives of the organisation, which is an Austrian bank, and of the programme participants, who are university graduates from South-Eastern Europe. It draws on the typology of diversity strategies by Ortlieb and Sieben (2013) and the categorisation of individual career competencies by DeFillippi and Arthur (1994).

Findings

The bank benefits from the programme participants’ competencies with regard to South-Eastern Europe and increased legitimacy gained from the public. Programme participants acquire many knowing-how, knowing-why and knowing-whom competencies, especially if the bank pursues a so-called learning strategy towards ethnic diversity. On the other hand, individual knowing-how competency supports an organisation’s antidiscrimination strategy, whereas knowing-why and knowing-whom competencies benefit the organisational learning strategy.

Research limitations/implications

Although the paper builds on a single case study and the ability to generalise is limited, the findings imply that future human resource development concepts should jointly consider the perspectives of both organisations and individuals.

Practical implications

Owing to their high strategic relevance, organisations should look into the competencies of skilled migrants and evaluate the critical resources they offer. Both organisational learning and an organisation’s strategic development are key concerns. The proposed framework helps to effectively design trainee- and internship programmes and simultaneously anticipate organisational and individual consequences thereof at an early stage.

Originality/value

The proposed framework concerning the interplay between organisational and individual perspectives as well as the regional focus on South-Eastern Europe present novelties.
Libraries, democracy, information literacy, and citizenship
Authors: Rivano Eckerdal Johanna
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advocate and contribute to a more nuanced and discerning argument when ascribing a democratic role to libraries and activities related to information literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The connections between democracy and libraries as well as between citizenship and information literacy are analysed by using Mouffe’s agonistic pluralism. One example is provided by a recent legislative change (the new Swedish Library Act) and the documents preceding it. A second, more detailed example concerns how information literacy may be conceptualised when related to young women’s sexual and reproductive health. Crucial in both examples are the suggestions of routes to travel that support equality and inclusion for all.

Findings

Within an agonistic approach, democracy concerns equality and interest in making efforts to include the less privileged. The inclusion of a democratic aim, directed towards everyone, for libraries in the new Library Act can be argued to emphasise the political role of libraries. A liberal and a radical understanding of information literacy is elaborated, the latter is advocated. Information literacy is also analysed in a non-essentialist manner, as a description of a learning activity, therefore always value-laden.

Originality/value

The agonistic reading of two central concepts in library and information studies, namely, libraries and information literacy is fruitful and shows how the discipline may contribute to strengthen democracy in society both within institutions as libraries and in other settings.
Global leaders’ perceptions of elements required for effective leadership development in the twenty-first century
Authors: Elkington Rob , Pearse Noel James , Moss Jennifer , Van der Steege Madeleine , Martin Suzanne
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a clear answer to the question “how is leadership developed?” This research utilized the knowledge of leadership development experts and their collective expertise to identify the critical elements required for a high-quality leadership development program.

Design/methodology/approach

The Lockean Inquiring System approach to the Delphi technique was used to solicit the views of experts in leadership and leadership development from around the world. Experts for Round 1 of the Delphi were drawn from a random sampling of 100 people, comprising leadership researchers, coaches, and organizational leaders, not personally known to the lead researcher of this project, but in his LinkedIn network. A response rate of 13 percent (n=13) yielded a rich range of qualitative data. Responses from the first round of the Delphi were analyzed using open coding and categorized into four themes, representing four sets of competencies required of leaders.

Findings

The four themes were labeled as contextual, human capital, social capital, and structural capital, all of which were seen by participants as being central to the development of collective leadership. Based on these themes, this paper identifies a useful list of key leadership development tactics from which those wishing to develop a leadership program can work.

Research limitations/implications

As the first round of a Delphi study, the authors are limited to presenting only the key elementary empirical judgments. Subsequent study with an expanded sample size and a refined set of questions rooted in the current data will contribute further to the development of factual propositions related to leadership development for the twenty-first century. The Delphi survey is a “snapshot” approach and presents a holographic-type image of the complex whole. The authors plan to triangulate the data by significantly expanding the pool of Delphi experts and conducting the Round 1 survey a second time with a larger international group of respondents that fit the criteria of expert.

Practical implications

This paper presents four dimensions of an effective leadership development strategy.

Originality/value

Core elements of the best methods for leadership development have been identified by leadership development experts, which serve as a basis for developing leadership as a collective, and for further research.
Niche differentiation and expansion of plant species are associated with mycorrhizal symbiosis
Authors: Gerz Maret , Guillermo Bueno C. , Ozinga Wim A. , Zobel Martin , Moora Mari
Published: October 2017

Mycorrhizal symbiosis is a widespread association between plant roots and mycorrhizal fungi, which is thought to contribute to plant niche differentiation and expansion. However, this has so far not been explicitly tested.

To address the effect of mycorrhizal symbiosis on plants’ realized niches, we addressed how mycorrhizal status (i.e. the frequency of occurrence of mycorrhizal symbiosis), flexibility (i.e. the ability to grow both with and without mycorrhizal symbiosis) and type of a plant species affect the realized niche optima, widths and volumes. For this, we used co‐occurrence data from the flora of the Netherlands along soil fertility, moisture, pH, salinity, light and temperature gradients. Phylogenetic dependency of the species was taken into account using phylogenetic generalized least squares models.

We show that facultatively and flexibly mycorrhizal plants have the widest niches compared to non‐mycorrhizal and obligately mycorrhizal, and inflexible plants respectively. Among obligate plant symbionts, ecto‐ and ericoid mycorrhizal plants exhibited the widest niches compared to plants with other mycorrhizal types. Also, plants with different mycorrhizal statuses and types differed in their realized niche optima.

Synthesis. Our results indicate that mycorrhizal symbiosis mediates plant niche differentiation and expansion, facilitating the understanding of current distribution patterns of plant species, as well as predicting shifts in plant distribution and dominance due to environmental changes.
Determinants of legislative turnover in Western Europe, 1945–2015
Authors: GOUGLAS ATHANASSIOS , MADDENS BART , BRANS MARLEEN
Published: October 2017

This article explains legislative turnover in eight West European legislatures over 152 general elections in the period 1945–2015. Turnover is measured as the rate of individual membership change in unicameral or lower chambers. It is the outcome of a legislative recruitment process with a supply and a demand side. Decisions made by contenders affect supply, while decisions made by parties and voters influence demand. Such decisions are shaped by four political and institutional factors: the institutional context of political careers, or structure of political career opportunities; political party characteristics; electoral swings; and electoral systems. Ten specific hypotheses are tested within this theoretical framework. The structure of political career opportunities is the most decisive factor explaining variability in turnover rates, followed by electoral swings and political parties. Electoral systems show less substantive effects. Electoral volatility is the predictor with the most substantive effects, followed by duration of legislative term, strength of bicameralism, regional authority, gender quotas, level of legislative income and district magnitude.
Are Irrigators Different from Dryland Operators? Insights from a Comparative Study in Australia
Authors: Sanderson Matthew R. , Curtis Allan L.
Published: October 2017

Social researchers tasked with advising practitioners on effective stakeholder engagement often develop typologies that distinguish operators on key attributes. We build on emerging research exploring the efficacy of occupational identity by investigating a potentially important difference among rural landholders that, to our knowledge, remains untested: irrigated operations and dryland operations. Using primary data collected from a large sample of operators in the North Central region of Victoria, Australia, we compared irrigators with dryland operators across a range of characteristics, controlling for the influence of occupational identity. We find evidence that irrigators tend to hold a stronger business orientation toward their properties and that dryland operators tend to hold stronger environmental concerns. But, it is important not to overdraw contrasts on business‐environment tradeoffs. Both place value on financial aspects of their properties and both hold environmental concerns. But, the especially close coupling of life and work among irrigators encourage a stronger orientation toward farming, and the natural resource base, as a means of sustaining livelihoods. We discuss the implications of the findings for future research and for stakeholder engagement efforts.
Effect of glycemic control on the Diabetes Complications Severity Index score and development of complications in people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
Authors: Pantalone Kevin M. , Misra‐Hebert Anita D. , Hobbs Todd M. , Wells Brian J. , Kong Sheldon X. , Chagin Kevin , Dey Tanujit , Milinovich Alex , Weng Wayne , Bauman Janine M. , Burguera Bartolome , Zimmerman Robert S. , Kattan Michael W.
Published: October 2017

Background

The aim of the present study was to assess the longitudinal accumulation of diabetes‐related complications and the effect of glycemic control on the Diabetes Complications Severity Index (DCSI) score in people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic health records from a large integrated healthcare system. People with newly diagnosed T2D were identified between 2005 and 2016 and stratified by initial HbA1c category (<7%, <8%, ≥8%). The DCSI scores were determined for each study year, and the cumulative incidence of diabetes‐related complications was assessed. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to evaluate the effect of baseline HbA1c and worsening glycemic (HbA1c) control on longitudinal changes in DCSI scores.

Results

Of 32 174 people identified as having newly diagnosed T2D, 14 016 (44%), 21 657 (67%), and 9983 (31%) had an initial or baseline HbA1c <7%, <8%, and ≥8%, respectively. Ten years after diabetes diagnosis, retinopathy, chronic kidney disease, coronary heart disease, and neuropathy were diagnosed in 22%, 29%, 24%, and 36% of people. Baseline HbA1c did not affect the observed trend in longitudinal changes in DCSI scores throughout the 11‐year period. For people in each of the initial HbA1c groups (<7%, <8%, ≥8%), worsening or persistently poor glycemic control was significantly associated with a 10%, 19%, or 16% increase in the risk of experiencing an increased DCSI score, respectively (all P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Baseline glycemic control had no apparent effect on longitudinal changes in DCSI score. Worsening or persistently poor glycemic control was associated with an increased risk of an increase in the DCSI score.
How to optimize the precision of allele and haplotype frequency estimates using pooled‐sequencing data
Authors: Rode Nicolas O. , Holtz Yan , Loridon Karine , Santoni Sylvain , Ronfort Joëlle , Gay Laurène
Published: October 2017

Sequencing pools of individuals rather than individuals separately reduces the costs of estimating allele frequencies at many loci in many populations. Theoretical and empirical studies show that sequencing pools comprising a limited number of individuals (typically fewer than 50) provides reliable allele frequency estimates, provided that the DNA pooling and DNA sequencing steps are carefully controlled. Unequal contributions of different individuals to the DNA pool and the mean and variance in sequencing depth both can affect the standard error of allele frequency estimates. To our knowledge, no study separately investigated the effect of these two factors on allele frequency estimates; so that there is currently no method to a priori estimate the relative importance of unequal individual DNA contributions independently of sequencing depth. We develop a new analytical model for allele frequency estimation that explicitly distinguishes these two effects. Our model shows that the DNA pooling variance in a pooled sequencing experiment depends solely on two factors: the number of individuals within the pool and the coefficient of variation of individual DNA contributions to the pool. We present a new method to experimentally estimate this coefficient of variation when planning a pooled sequencing design where samples are either pooled before or after DNA extraction. Using this analytical and experimental framework, we provide guidelines to optimize the design of pooled sequencing experiments. Finally, we sequence replicated pools of inbred lines of the plant Medicago truncatula and show that the predictions from our model generally hold true when estimating the frequency of known multilocus haplotypes using pooled sequencing.
Survival significance of coexisting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with early lung cancer after curative surgery
Authors: Saji Hisashi , Miyazawa Tomoyuki , Sakai Hiroki , Kimura Yusuke , Tsuda Masataka , Wakiyama Yoichi , Marushima Hideki , Kojima Koji , Nakamura Haruhiko
Published: October 2017

Background

The impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) severity on survival after curative resection of early‐stage lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been sufficiently elucidated.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 250 consecutive patients who underwent lobectomy with lymph nodal dissection for pathological stage I–II NSCLC.

Results

Among the COPD patients, 28 were classified as Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 1, 21 as GOLD 2, and one as GOLD 3. The cumulative overall survival (OS) of the non‐COPD, GOLD 1, and GOLD 2–3 groups at five years was 90.7%, 85.7%, and 55.3%, respectively, (P < 0.0001), while recurrence‐free survival (RFS) between the groups at five years was 84.7%, 80.7%, and 72.9%, respectively. Although RFS in the GOLD 2–3 group tended to indicate a poor prognosis, there was no statistical difference between the groups (P = 0.385). In multivariate analysis, age ≥75 years, pN1, and GOLD 2–3 COPD were independent factors for a poor prognosis (P = 0.034, P = 0.010, and P = 0.030, respectively).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that early stage NSCLC patients with COPD had a significantly increased risk of poorer OS and potentially an increased risk of poor RFS.
An individual‐based model of ectotherm movement integrating metabolic and microclimatic constraints
Authors: Malishev Matthew , Bull C. Michael , Kearney Michael R.
Published: October 2017

An understanding of the direct links between animals and their environment can offer insights into the drivers and constraints to animal movement. Constraints on movement interact in complex ways with the physiology of the animal (metabolism) and physical environment (food and weather), but can be modelled using physical principles of energy and mass exchange. Here, we describe a general, spatially explicit individual‐based movement model that couples a nutritional energy and mass budget model (dynamic energy budget theory) with a biophysical model of heat exchange. This provides a highly integrated method for constraining an ectothermic animal's movement in response to how food and microclimates vary in space and time.

The model uses r to drive a NetLogo individual‐based model together with microclimate and energy‐ and mass‐budget modelling functions from the r package “NicheMapR”. It explicitly incorporates physiological and morphological traits, behavioural thermoregulation, movement strategies and movement costs. From this, the model generates activity budgets of foraging and shade‐seeking, home range behaviour, spatial movement patterns and life history consequences under user‐defined configurations of food and microclimates. To illustrate the model, we run simulations of the Australian sleepy lizard Tiliqua rugosa under different movement strategies (optimising or satisficing) in two contrasting habitats of varying food and shade (sparse and dense). We then compare the results with real, fine‐scale movement data of a wild population throughout the breeding season.

Our results show that (1) the extremes of movement behaviour observed in sleepy lizards are consistent with feeding requirements (passive movement) and thermal constraints (active movement), (2) the model realistically captures majority of the distribution of observed home range size, (3) both satisficing and optimising movement strategies appear to exist in the wild population, but home range size more closely approximates an optimising strategy, and (4) satisficing was more energetically efficient than optimising movement, which returned no additional benefit in metabolic fitness outputs.

This framework for predicting physical constraints to individual movement can be extended to individual‐level interactions with the same or different species and provides new capabilities for forecasting future responses to novel resource and weather scenarios.
Effect of tillage, subsidiary crops and fertilisation on plant‐parasitic nematodes in a range of agro‐environmental conditions within Europe
Authors: Schmidt J.H. , Bergkvist G. , Campiglia E. , Radicetti E. , Wittwer R.A. , Finckh M.R. , Hallmann J.
Published: October 2017

The overall goal in nematode management is to develop sustainable systems where nematode populations are kept under the economic damage threshold. Conservation tillage and subsidiary crops, applied as cover crops and living mulches, generally improve soil health by increasing soil organic matter content and stimulating soil microbial activity. However, more permanent crop and weed cover associated with subsidiary crops and noninversion tillage, respectively, may benefit plant‐parasitic nematodes with broad host spectra such as Meloidogyne and Pratylenchus. These genera are major constraints to many field crops throughout Europe and there is a need to identify effective and reliable management options that can be applied to avoid excessive infestations. The dynamics of the indigenous fauna of plant‐parasitic nematodes were studied in eight coordinated multi‐environment field experiments (MEEs) under four agro‐environmental conditions in Europe (Continental, Nemoral, Atlantic North and Mediterranean North). The MEEs consisted of a 2‐year sequence of wheat combined with a living mulch or subsequent cover crops and second main crops maize, potatoes or tomatoes depending on site. Additionally, the effects of inversion tillage using the plough were compared with various forms of conservation tillage (no‐tillage, shallow and deep noninversion tillage). Overall, Helicotylenchus, Paratylenchus, Pratylenchus and Tylenchorhynchus were the most frequent genera across sites while Meloidogyne occurred only in Germany at very low densities. During the wheat–maize sequences in Switzerland, the populations of Pratylenchus increased from 63 to 146 nematodes per 100 mL soil and Helicotylenchus from 233 to 632 nematodes per 100 mL soil. The effects of tillage on plant‐parasitic nematodes were generally minor, although no tillage in Italy supported higher densities of Pratylenchus (184 nematodes per 100 mL soil) than inversion tillage (59 nematodes per 100 mL soil). Furthermore, Pratylenchus densities were 160 nematodes per 100 mL soil when leguminous subsidiary crops were grown, 122 nematodes per 100 mL soil in the green fallow and 84 nematodes per 100 mL soil after growing black oat (Avena strigosa) or oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus). The differences were greatest in Italy, in a sandy soil with low organic matter. Application of compost or nitrogen fertiliser had no consistent effects on plant‐parasitic nematodes. We conclude that crop rotations including specific subsidiary crops are prominent factors affecting the indigenous nematode community, while tillage and fertiliser are of lower importance.
Dopamine D4 receptor activation restores CA1 LTP in hippocampal slices from aged mice
Authors: Guo Fangli , Zhao Jianhua , Zhao Dandan , Wang Jiangang , Wang Xiaofang , Feng Zhiwei , Vreugdenhil Martin , Lu Chengbiao
Published: October 2017

Normal aging is characterized with a decline in hippocampal memory functions that is associated with changes in long‐term potentiation (LTP) of the CA3‐to‐CA1 synapse. Age‐related deficit of the dopaminergic system may contribute to impairment of CA1 LTP. Here we assessed how the modulation of CA1 LTP by dopamine is affected by aging and how it is dependent on the Ca2+ source. In slices from adult mice, the initial slope of the field potential showed strong LTP, but in slices from aged mice LTP was impaired. Dopamine did not affect LTP in adult slices, but enhanced LTP in aged slices. The dopamine D1/D5 receptor (D1R/D5R) agonist SKF‐81297 did not affect LTP in adult but caused a relative small increase in LTP in aged slices; however, although there was no difference in dopamine D4 receptor (D4R) expression, the D4R agonist PD168077 increased LTP in aged slices to a magnitude similar to that in adult slices. The N‐Methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antagonist D‐AP5 reduced LTP in adult slices, but not in aged slices. However, in the presence of D‐AP5, PD168077 completely blocked LTP in aged slices. The voltage‐dependent calcium channel (VDCC) blocker nifedipine reduced LTP in adult slices, but surprisingly enhanced LTP in aged slices. Furthermore, in the presence of nifedipine, PD168077 caused a strong enhancement of LTP in aged slices to a magnitude exceeding LTP in adult slices. Our results indicate that the full rescue of impaired LTP in aging by the selective D4R activation and that a large potentiation role on LTP by co‐application of D4R agonist and VDCC blocker may provide novel strategies for the intervention of cognitive decline of aging and age‐related diseases.
Are paper winners gamblers? Evidence from Australian retail investors
Authors: Frino Alex , Lepone Grace , Wright Danika
Published: October 2017

This study examines stock market gambling using a comprehensive set of investor characteristics and past portfolio performance measures. We find that retail investors overinvest in ‘lottery stocks’, stocks with gambling‐like properties. Significant portfolio underperformance is the result of gambling through lottery stocks. Investors are more likely to gamble following recent portfolio paper gains, regardless of realised performance, providing new evidence that paper gains trigger a house money effect. Investors trading greater values or holding more stocks, and older and female investors, are less likely to invest in lottery stocks.
Human health and pesticide use in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Sheahan Megan , Barrett Christopher B. , Goldvale Casey
Published: October 2017

While pesticides–such as insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides–are often promoted as inputs that increase agricultural productivity by limiting a range of pre‐harvest losses, their use may have negative human health and labor productivity implications. We explore the relationship between pesticide use and the value of crop output at the plot level and a range of human health outcomes at the household level using large‐scale, nationally representative panel survey data from four Sub‐Saharan African countries where more than 10% of main season cultivators use pesticides. We find that pesticide use is strongly correlated with increased value of harvest, but is also correlated with higher costs associated with human illness, including increased health expenditures and time lost from work due to sickness in the recent past. We take these results as suggestive that the findings of more targeted studies are indeed generalizable beyond their original, purposively chosen samples.
Propensity score matching analysis of the impact of Syntax score and Syntax score II on new onset atrial fibrillation development in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Rencuzogullari Ibrahim , Çağdaş Metin , Karakoyun Suleyman , Yesin Mahmut , Gürsoy Mustafa O. , Artaç İnanç , İliş Doğan , Efe Suleyman C. , Tanboga Ibrahim H.
Published: October 2017

Background

New‐onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) is a common complication in the setting of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and worsened short/long‐term prognosis. Several clinical parameters have already been associated with NOAF development. However, relationship between NOAF and coronary artery disease (CAD) severity in STEMI patients is unclear. This study evaluates the relationship between NOAF and CAD severity using Syntax score (SS) and Syntax score II (SSII) in STEMI patients who were treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI).

Method

We enrolled 1,565 consecutive STEMI patients who were treated with pPCI. Patients with NOAF were compared to patients without NOAF in the entire study population and in a matched population defined by propensity score matching.

Results

Patients with NOAF had significantly higher SS and SSII than those without, both in the matched population (18.6 ± 4 vs 16.75 ± 3.6; p < .001 and 42 ± 13.4 vs 35.1 ± 13.1; p < .001, respectively), and in all study population (18.6 ± 4 vs 16.5 ± 4.6; p < .001 and 42 ± 13.3 vs 31.5 ± 11.9; p < .001 respectively). SSII, compared to its components, was the only independent predictor of NOAF (OR: 1,041 95% CI: 1.015–1.068; p = .002). In the long‐term follow‐up, all‐cause long‐term mortality was significantly higher in patients with NOAF than those without NOAF (23.3% vs. 11%; p = .032).

Conclusion

This is the first study to comprehensively examine the relationship between NOAF development and CAD severity using SS and SSII. We demonstrated that, in STEMI patients, high SSII was significantly related to NOAF and was an independent predictor of NOAF. Furthermore, patients with NOAF were associated with poor prognosis.
Type of vascular invasion in association with progress of endometrial cancer
Authors: Visser Nicole C.M. , Werner Henrica M.J. , Krakstad Camilla , Mauland Karen K. , Trovik Jone , Massuger Leon F.A.G. , Nagtegaal Iris D. , Pijnenborg Johanna M.A. , Salvesen Helga B. , Bulten Johan , Stefansson Ingunn M.
Published: October 2017

Vascular invasion (VI) is a well‐established marker for lymph node metastasis and outcome in endometrial cancer. Our study explored whether specific types of VI, defined as lymphatic (LVI) or blood vessel invasion (BVI), predict pattern of metastasis. From a prospectively collected cohort, we conducted a case–control study by selecting three groups of endometrial cancer patients (n = 183): 52 with positive lymph nodes at primary surgery, 33 with negative nodes at primary surgery and later recurrence and death from disease, and 98 with negative nodes and no recurrence. All patients underwent hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy. Immunohistochemical staining with D2‐40 and CD31 antibodies was used to differentiate between BVI and LVI. By immunohistochemical staining, detection of VI increased from 24.6 to 36.1% of the cases. LVSI was significantly more often seen in patients with positive lymph nodes compared with patients with negative nodes (p = 0.001). BVI was significantly more often seen in node‐negative patients with recurrence compared with node‐negative patients without recurrence (p = 0.011). In multivariable analysis, BVI, age, and tumor grade were predictors separating patients with and without recurrence. Lymph node–positive patients showed more often LVI compared with lymph node–negative patients, while BVI seems to be a predictor for recurrent disease.
Prospective randomized controlled trial comparing partially absorbable lightweight mesh and multifilament polyester anatomical mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Wong John CC , Yang George PC , Cheung Tony PP , Li Michael KW
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Tension‐free mesh repair is currently the gold standard treatment for inguinal hernia. Recent evidence has shown that both open and laparoscopic approaches to inguinal hernia repair can achieve good results. Lots of meshes with different properties are available on the market, but direct comparisons between them are scare. We conducted a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing a partially absorbable lightweight mesh (ULTRAPRO™) and a multifilament polyester anatomical mesh (Parietex™) in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair.

Methods

This study was a single‐center, prospective randomized controlled trial to compare the surgical handling and clinical outcomes between two different types of meshes. All operations were performed using a standardized operative protocol. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Hong Kong East Cluster Health Service in 2009 (reference number: 2009‐087). The study was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12610000031066).

Results

From October 2009 to August 2011, 85 laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repairs were performed. The mean mesh handling time was 152 s for the ULTRAPRO group and 206 s for the Parietex group (P = 0.001). There were three cases of seroma formation in the ULTRAPRO group and nine in the Parietex group (P = 0.02). The overall recurrence rate was 2.5%.

Conclusion

It took less time to manipulate the flat mesh (ULTRAPRO) than the anatomical mesh (Parietex) in laparoscopic total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair, but the time difference was small. Lightweight mesh and heavyweight mesh offered similar clinical outcomes in terms of discomfort sensation and foreign body sensation during long‐term follow‐up.
Scanning the body, sequencing the genome: Dealing with unsolicited findings
Authors: Wouters Roel H. P. , Cornelis Candice , Newson Ainsley J. , Bunnik Eline M. , Bredenoord Annelien L.
Published: October 2017

The introduction of novel diagnostic techniques in clinical domains such as genomics and radiology has led to a rich ethical debate on how to handle unsolicited findings that result from these innovations. Yet while unsolicited findings arise in both genomics and radiology, most of the relevant literature to date has tended to focus on only one of these domains. In this article, we synthesize and critically assess similarities and differences between “scanning the body” and “sequencing the genome” from an ethical perspective. After briefly describing the novel diagnostic contexts leading to unsolicited findings, we synthesize and reflect on six core ethical issues that relate to both specialties: terminology; benefits and risks; autonomy; disclosure of unsolicited findings to children; uncertainty; and filters and routine screening. We identify ethical rationales that pertain to both fields and may contribute to more ethically sound policies. Considerations of preserving public trust and ensuring that people perceive healthcare policies as fair also support the need for a combined debate.
Taking an instrumental genesis lens: New insights into collaborative mobile learning
Authors: Cerratto Pargman Teresa , Nouri Jalal , Milrad Marcelo
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we argue that in order to gain a deeper understanding of collaborative mobile learning in schools, it is important to know not only how mobile devices affect collaborative learning but also how collaborative learning emerges and is mediated by these devices. We develop our argument by applying the instrumental genesis theory and the collective instrumented activities and situations model for the analysis of learners' collaborative learning in the tablet‐mediated classroom. This analysis is grounded in data collected in four elementary Swedish schools (ie, from fourth to eighth grade). From the data, we considered the learners' conversation in English as a foreign language, inquiry‐based learning in the natural sciences classroom and game‐based learning in the arithmetic classroom. On the one hand, the scrutiny of these specific activities led us to distinguish the pragmatic, epistemic, and reflexive instrumental mediations that have already been theorized in the instrumental genesis theory. On the other hand, they helped us to identify two additional ones, which we call emotional and spatial. Based on these findings, we claim that collaboration in the tablet‐mediated classroom is a complex activity that emerges from a variety of instrumental mediations that configure contemporary collaborative mobile learning.
Intraductal carcinoma of the prostate can evade androgen deprivation, with emergence of castrate‐tolerant cells
Authors: Porter Laura H. , Hashimoto Kohei , Lawrence Mitchell G. , Pezaro Carmel , Clouston David , Wang Hong , Papargiris Melissa , Thorne Heather , Li Jason ,   kConFab, Ryan Andrew , Norden Sam , Moon Daniel , Bolton Damien M. , Sengupta Shomik , Frydenberg Mark , Murphy Declan G. , Risbridger Gail P. , Taylor Renea A.
Published: October 2017

Objective

To determine the relevance of intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC‐P) in advanced prostate cancer by first examining whether IDC‐P was originally present in patients who later developed advanced prostate cancer and then using patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) to investigate the response of IDC‐P to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective pathology review of IDC‐P in primary prostate biopsy or surgery specimens from 38 men who subsequently developed advanced prostate cancer. Overall survival was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. To demonstrate the response of IDC‐P to ADT, we established PDXs from seven patients with familial and/or high‐risk sporadic prostate cancer. After castration and testosterone restoration of host mice, we measured the volume and proliferation of IDC‐P within PDX grafts.

Results

We found that IDC‐P was a prominent feature in the primary prostate specimens, present in 63% of specimens and often co‐existing with poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Overall survival was similar in patients with or without IDC‐P. In the PDXs from all seven patients, IDC‐P was identified and present at a similar volume to adenocarcinoma. Residual IDC‐P lesions persisted after host castration and, similar to castrate‐tolerant adenocarcinoma, testosterone restoration led to tumour regeneration.

Conclusion

The study showed that IDC‐P is prevalent in aggressive prostate cancer and contains cells that can withstand androgen deprivation. Thus, IDC‐P appears functionally relevant in advanced prostate cancer. The presence of IDC‐P may be a trigger to develop innovative clinical management plans.
Extracranial outflow of particles solved in cerebrospinal fluid: Fluorescein injection study
Authors: Akai Takuya , Hatta Toshihisa , Shimada Hiroki , Mizuki Keiji , Kudo Nae , Hatta Taizo , Otani Hiroki
Published: October 2017

Cerebrospinal fluid is thought to be mainly absorbed into arachnoid granules in the subarachnoid space and drained into the sagittal sinus. However, some observations such as late outbreak of arachnoid granules in fetus brain and recent cerebrospinal fluid movements study by magnetic resonance images, conflict with this hypothesis. In this study, we investigated the movement of cerebrospinal fluid in fetuses. Several kinds of fluorescent probes with different molecular weights were injected into the lateral ventricle or subarachnoid space in mouse fetuses at a gestational age of 13 days. The movements of the probes were monitored by live imaging under fluorescent microscope. Following intraventricular injection, the probes dispersed into the 3rd ventricle and aqueduct immediately, but did not move into the 4th ventricle and spinal canal. After injection of low and high molecular weight conjugated probes, both probes dispersed into the brain but only the low molecular weight probe dispersed into the whole body. Following intra‐subarachnoid injection, both probes diffused into the spinal canal gradually. Neither probe dispersed into the brain and body. The probe injected into the lateral ventricle moved into the spinal central canal by the fetus head compression, and returned into the aqueduct by its release. We conclude this study as follows: (i) The movement of metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles will be restricted by molecular weight; (ii) Cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricle and in the subarachnoid space move differently; and (iii) Cerebrospinal fluid may not appear to circulate. In the event of high intracranial pressure, the fluid may move into the spinal canal.