bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pyocin S5 import intoPseudomonas aeruginosareveals a generic mode of bacteriocin transport
Authors: Behrens Hannah M. , Lowe Edward D. , Gault Joseph , Housden Nicholas G. , Kaminska Renata , Moritz Weber T. , Thompson Catriona M A , Mislin Gaëtan L. A. , Schalk Isabelle J. , Walker Daniel , Robinson Carol V. , Kleanthous Colin
Published: November 2019

Pyocin S5 (PyoS5) is a potent protein bacteriocin that eradicates the human pathogenP. aeruginosain animal infection models, but its import mechanism is poorly understood. Here, using crystallography, biophysical and biochemical analysis and live-cell imaging, we define the entry process of PyoS5 and reveal links to the transport mechanisms of other bacteriocins. In addition to its C-terminal pore-forming domain, elongated PyoS5 comprises two novel tandemly repeated kinked three helix bundle domains that structure-based alignments identify as key import domains in other pyocins. The central domain binds the lipid-bound common polysaccharide antigen, allowing the pyocin to accumulate on the cell surface. The N-terminal domain binds the ferric pyochelin transporter FptA while its associated disordered region binds the inner membrane protein TonB1, which together drive import of the bacteriocin across the outer membrane. Finally, we identify the minimal requirements for sensitizingEscherichia colitowards PyoS5, as well as other pyocins, and suggest that a generic pathway likely underpins the import of all TonB-dependent bacteriocins across the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
Relationship between maximal incremental and high-intensity interval exercise performance in elite athletes
Authors: Chang Shih-Chieh , Adami Alessandra , Lin Hsin-Chin , Lin Yin-Chou , Chen Carl P.C. , Fu Tieh-Cheng , Hsu Chih-Chin , Huang Shu-Chun
Published: November 2019

It remains unclear whether the number of total bouts to limitation (Blim) in high-intensity interval testing (HIIT) differs among individuals, no matter if performed at the same relative intensity. This study aimed to explore the physiologic factors determining tolerance to effort during a HIIT. Forty-seven female participants (15-28 years old) were included: 23 athletes from Taiwan national or national reserve teams, and 24 moderately-active female. Each participant underwent maximal incremental (INC; modified-Bruce protocol) cardiopulmonary exercise testing and HIIT on treadmill, on separate days. HIIT protocol alternated a 1-min effort at 120% of the maximal speed and the same slope reached at the end of INC, with a 1-min rest, until volitional exhaustion. Gas-exchanges, and muscle oxygenation at right vastus lateralis by near-infrared spectroscopy, were continuously recorded. Additionally, bioelectrical impedance was utilized for body composition analysis. The result showed that Blim differed greatly (range: 2.6 to 12) among participants. Stepwise regression revealed that Blim was determined primarily by oxygen consumption (VO2) and heart rate (HR) at second-minute recovery; and, muscle tissue saturation index at peak of INC (R=0.644). Also, age and percent body fat were linearly correlated with Blim (adjusted R=−0.475, −0.371, p<0.05). Therefore, HIIT performance is determined by fast recovery of VO2 and HR, rather than maximal VO2 or muscle oxygenation recovery. Moreover, capacity to sustain a HIIT declines with age since as early as late adolescent. Further investigations on which factors should be manipulated to further improve athletes performance are warrant.
Effectiveness of micromorphy against drilling predation: Insights from early Miocene faunal assemblage of Quilon limestone, India
Authors: Chattopadhyay Debarati , Venu gopal K. S. , Chattopadhyay Devapriya
Published: November 2019

The nature of drilling predation, although well documented for molluscan fossils, is understudied for micromolluscs (<5mm). Studying predation in micromolluscs is especially critical in evaluating the adaptive significance of micromorphy against predation and assessing the importance of predator-prey size relationship (PPSR). This study documents drilling predation event in microbivalves from early Miocene (Burdigalian) fossil assemblage of Quilon limestone from Kerala, India. Our sample of ~2000 valves represent nine families with an average drilling frequency (DF) of 0.06 and an incomplete drilling frequency (IDF) of 0.26. The characteristic drillhole morphology and occurrence of five genera of modern drilling gastropods (Naticid: Natica, Tanea and Polinices; Muricid: Triplex and Dermomurex) from the same locality reveals the predator identity. Predation in the studied assemblage is found to be highly selective in terms of prey taxa, size, mobility and site selection. Six out of nine families show evidence of predation indicating taxon selectivity. Poor correlation between DF and abundance further supports this view. Failed attacks are strongly correlated with morphological features such as surface ornamentation (Lucinidae), presence of conchiolin layers (Corbulidae). Drilling occurs primarily on medium size class and prey outside this size range show lower rate of attack. This indicates the existence of an “inverse size refugia” for extremely small prey along with the classical size refugia existing for large prey. Mobility is found to be a deterrent to drilling predation and it also increases failure.
 Microbenthos of Quilon limestone shows a lower predation intensity in comparison to the Miocene macrobenthos worldwide including coeval formation of the Kutch Basin. The interaction in microbenthos is more strongly size-dependent in contrast to the Kutch fauna. Reduced predation intensity in microfauna and existence of “inverse size refugia” support the claim of micromorphy acting as a defense mechanism and highlights the role of size-dependent predation in marine benthos.
Using oxygen and hydrogen stable isotopes to track the migratory movement of Sharp-shinned Hawks (Accipiter striatus) along Western Flyways of North America
Authors: Wommack Elizabeth A. , Marrack Lisa C. , Mambelli Stefania , Hull Joshua M. , Dawson Todd E.
Published: November 2019

The large-scale patterns of movement for the Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus), a small forest hawk found throughout western North America, are largely unknown. However, based on field observations we set out to test the hypothesis that juvenile migratoryA. striatuscaught along two distinct migration routes on opposite sides of the Sierra Nevada Mountains of North America (Pacific Coast and Intermountain Migratory Flyways) come from geographically different natal populations. We applied stable isotope analysis of hydrogen (H) and oxygen (O) of feathers, and large scale models of spatial isotopic variation (isoscapes) to formulate spatially explicit predictions of the origin of the migrant birds. Novel relationships were assessed between the measured hydrogen and oxygen isotope values of feathers fromA. striatusmuseum specimens of known origin and the isoscape modeled hydrogen and oxygen isotope values of precipitation at those known locations. We used these relationships to predict the origin regions for birds migrating along the two flyways from the measured isotope values of migrant’s feathers and the associated hydrogen and oxygen isotopic composition of precipitation where these feathers were formed. The birds from the two migration routes had overlap in their natal/breeding origins and did not differentiate into fully separate migratory populations, with birds from the Pacific Coast Migratory Flyway showing broader natal geographic origins then those from the Intermountain Flyway. The methodology based on oxygen isotopes had, in general, less predictive power than the one based on hydrogen. There was broad agreement between the two isotope approaches in the geographic assignment of the origins of birds migrating along the Pacific Coast Flyway, but not for those migrating along the Intermountain Migratory Flyway. These results are discussed in terms of their implications for conservation efforts ofA. striatusin western North America, and the use of combined hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope analysis to track the movement of birds of prey on continental scales.
Impact of soil salinity on the cowpea nodule-microbiome and the isolation of halotolerant PGPR strains to promote plant growth under salinity stress
Authors: Mukhtar Salma , Hirsch Ann M. , Khan Noor , Malik Kauser A. , Humm Ethan A. , Pellegrini Matteo , Shi Baochen , Briscoe Leah , Huntemann Marcel , Clum Alicia , Foster Brian , Foster Bryce , Roux Simon , Palaniappan Krishnaveni , Varghese Neha , Mukherjee Supratim , Reddy T.B.K. , Daum Chris , Copeland Alex , Ivanova Natalia N. , Kyrpides Nikos C. , Shapiro Nicole , Eloe-Fadrosh Emiley A. , Maymon Maskit , Mirza Muhammad S. , Mehnaz Samina
Published: November 2019

Four soil samples (SS-1—SS-4) isolated from semi-arid soils in Punjab, Pakistan were used as inocula for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) grown under salinity stress to analyze the composition of bacteria in the rhizosphere and within nodules through cultivation-dependent and cultivation-independent methods. Two cowpea varieties, 603 and the salt-tolerant CB 46, were each inoculated with four different native soil samples, and data showed that plants inoculated with soil samples SS-2 and SS-4 grew better than plants inoculated with soil samples SS-1 and SS-3. Bacteria were isolated from both soils and nodules, and 34 of the 51 original isolates tested positive for PGPR traits in plate assays with many exhibiting multiple plant growth-promoting properties. A number of isolates were positive for all PGPR traits tested. For the microbiome studies, environmental DNA (eDNA) was isolated from SS-1 and SS-4, which represented the extremes of the Pakistan soils to which the plants responded, and by 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis were found to consist mainly of Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria. However, sequencing analysis of eDNA isolated from cowpea nodules established by the trap plants grown in the four Pakistan soils indicated that the nodule microbiome consisted almost exclusively of Proteobacterial sequences, particularly Bradyrhizobium. Yet, many other bacteria including Rhizobium, Mesorhizobium, Pseudomonas, as well as Paenibacillus, Bacillus as well as non-proteobacterial genera were isolated from the nodules of soil-inoculated cowpea plants. This discrepancy between the bacteria isolated from cowpea nodules (Proteobacteria and non-Proteobacteria) versus those detected in the nodule microbiome (Proteobacteria) needs further study.
Annotation-free Learning of Plankton for Classification and Anomaly Detection
Authors: Pastore Vito P. , Zimmerman Thomas G. , Biswas Sujoy , Bianco Simone
Published: November 2019

The acquisition of increasingly large plankton digital image datasets requires automatic methods of recognition and classification. As data size and collection speed increases, manual annotation and database representation are often bottlenecks for utilization of machine learning algorithms for taxonomic classification of plankton species in field studies. In this paper we present a novel set of algorithms to perform accurate detection and classification of plankton species with minimal supervision. Our algorithms approach the performance of existing supervised machine learning algorithms when tested on a plankton dataset generated from a custom-built lensless digital device. Similar results are obtained on a larger image dataset obtained from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Our algorithms are designed to provide a new way to monitor the environment with a class of rapid online intelligent detectors.

Author Summary

Plankton are at the bottom of the aquatic food chain and marine phytoplankton are estimated to be responsible for over 50% of all global primary production [1] and play a fundamental role in climate regulation. Thus, changes in plankton ecology may have a profound impact on global climate, as well as deep social and economic consequences. It seems therefore paramount to collect and analyze real time plankton data to understand the relationship between the health of plankton and the health of the environment they live in. In this paper, we present a novel set of algorithms to perform accurate detection and classification of plankton species with minimal supervision. The proposed pipeline is designed to provide a new way to monitor the environment with a class of rapid online intelligent detectors.
The frequency gradient of human resting-state brain oscillations follows cortical hierarchies
Authors: Mahjoory Keyvan , Schoffelen Jan-Mathijs , Keitel Anne , Gross Joachim
Published: November 2019

The human cortex is characterized by local morphological features such as cortical thickness, myelin content and gene expression that change along the posterior-anterior axis. We investigated if these structural gradients are associated with a similar gradient in a prominent feature of brain activity – namely the frequency of brain oscillations. In resting-state MEG recordings from healthy participants (N=187), we found that the strongest peak frequency in a brain area decreases significantly, gradually and robustly along the posterior-anterior axis following the global hierarchy from early sensory to higher-order areas. This spatial gradient of peak frequency was significantly anticorrelated with the cortical thickness of corresponding areas representing a proxy of the cortical hierarchical level. This result indicates that the intrinsic ‘resonance’ frequency decreases systematically from early sensory to higher-order areas and establishes a new structure-function relationship pertaining to brain oscillations as a core organizational principle that may underlie hierarchical specialization in the brain.
Indigenizing the Anthropocene? Specifying and situating multi-species encounters
Authors: Adams Matthew
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to articulate a meaningful response to recent calls to “indigenize” and “decolonize” the Anthropocene in the social sciences and humanities; and in doing so to challenge and extend dominant conceptualisations of the Anthropocene offered to date within a posthuman and more-than-human intellectual context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a radical material and relational ontology, purposefully drawing on an indigenous knowledge framework, as it is specifically exemplified in Maori approaches to anthropogenic impacts on species and multi-species entanglements. The paper takes as its focus particular species of whales, trees and humans and their entanglements. It also draws on, critically engages with, and partially integrates posthuman and more-than-human theory addressing the Anthropocene.

Findings

The findings of this study are that we will benefit from approaching the Anthropocene from situated and specific ontologies rooted in place, which can frame multi-species encounters in novel and productive ways.

Research limitations/implications

The paper calls for a more expansive and critical version of social science in which the relations between human and more-than-human becomes much more of a central concern; but in doing so it must recognize the importance of multiple histories, knowledge systems and narratives, the marginalization of many of which can be seen as a symptom of ecological crisis. The paper also proposes adopting Zoe Todd’s suggested tools to further indigenize the Anthropocene – though there remains much more scope to do so both theoretically and methodologically.

Practical implications

The paper argues that Anthropocene narratives must incorporate deeper colonial histories and their legacies; that related research must pay greater attention to reciprocity and relatedness, as advocated by posthuman scholarship in developing methodologies and research agendas; and that non-human life should remain firmly in focus to avoid reproducing human exceptionalism.

Social implications

In societies where populations are coming to terms in different ways with living through an era of environmental breakdown, it is vital to seek out forms of knowledge and progressive collaboration that resonate with place and with which progressive science and humanities research can learn and collaborate; to highlight narratives which “give life and dimension to the strategies – oppositional, affirmative, and yes, often desperate and fractured – that emerge from those who bear the brunt of the planet’s ecological crises” (Nixon, 2011, p. 23).

Originality/value

The paper is original in approaching the specific and situated application of indigenous ontologies in some of their grounded everyday social complexity, with the potential value of opening up the Anthropocene imaginary to a more radical and ethical relational ontology.
Selective incivility, trust and general well-being: a study of women at workplace
Authors: Rawat Preeti S. , Bhattacharjee Shrabani B. , Ganesh Vaishali
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study if trust on team members and leaders leads to an experience of civil behavior in the workplace or reduced incivility at the workplace. The study was conducted on women employees and therefore termed as selective incivility.

Design/methodology/approach

In the study, the relationship between team trust and leader trust was the antecedent variables and general well-being was the consequent variable. Civil behavior in the workplace was the mediating variable. The research was conducted on 228 working women in different sectors of the Indian organization. Trust (in leaders and on teams) and general well-being were measured by established scales. Selective incivility scale was developed based on the qualitative inputs from working women. Data were analysed on SPSS and AMOS version 20.

Findings

The study showed that trust (between leader and subordinates and among team members) led to an experience of civil behavior at workplace, and experience of civil behavior led to an experience of general well-being.

Research limitations/implications

This research has contributed to both theoretical and managerial aspects. On the theoretical front, this research has emphasized the role of trust in building a civil environment in the workplace. On the managerial front, it has contributed to showing how low incivility encourages inclusivity and maintains the general well-being of employees, and therefore advocates the practice of civil behavior.

Practical implications

The study is relevant in managing politics at workplace. With an environment of trust, the insecurity and doubt in the minds of employees are reduced. This leads to higher well-being of employees. In the modern times, workplaces are becoming more diverse. There are not only gender differences but also differences in age, sexual orientation and persons with disabilities. Presence of low incivility can go a long way in encouraging an inclusive workplace. It is thus relevant in managing workplace diversity and for creating a more inclusive environment.

Social implications

Diverse workplace constituting women and minority race have experienced more workplace incivility (Cameron and Webster, 2011). Also, presence of higher percentage of men in the workforce composition enhanced incivility toward women (Trudel and Reio, 2011). As the paper indicates that low incivility leads to general well-being, it also tries to point out that overall health of organization also improves. It should not be ignored that it is not only the employee who is exposed to incivility who gets affected but also the other employees who are witness to such situation.

Originality/value

This study investigates the mediating effect of civil behavior at the workplace between trust, both team member and leader, and general well-being.
“Everything changed!” – the ramification of the Second World War on the Canadian North
Authors: Lemelin Raynald Harvey , Beaulieu Michel S. , Ratz David
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to retrace past developments that occurred in the Alaskan and Canadian North as of result of the Second World War and illustrate the ramifications of these events in the Canadian and American political landscapes as it pertains to warfare tourism. The paper also intends to initiate a discussion on how certain narratives pertaining to warfare tourism are promoted, while others are overlooked.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyses the political, economic, socio-cultural and technological factors that resulted in tourism growth or the lack thereof in the Canadian and American Norths.

Findings

Warfare tourism, like most types of tourism, is expected to grow. Through this growth comes opportunities to expand and integrate the discussion pertaining to warfare tourism in the Canadian and American Norths while also providing a starting point for discussion about potential solutions to address warfare tourism and cultural dissonance.

Research limitations/implications

This viewpoint is dependent on literature reviews.

Practical implications

The relationship between Indigenous peoples and other marginalized populations in the Second World War and warfare tourism is a relatively new research area. For warfare tourism to become integrated into tourism policies and developments, a willingness to address cultural dissonance and integrate populations formerly marginalized in the Second World War will be required. This paper examines how northern and other marginalized voices can be integrated in future commemoration and interpretation strategies.

Social implications

The paper provides an opportunity to examine the growth and healing that can result from warfare tourism.

Originality/value

This interdisciplinary collaboration conducted by a military historian, a northern historian and a tourism research researcher provides one of the first examinations of the impacts of the Second World War in North America, and the relevance of these impacts to the interpretation of warfare tourism in Canada.
The Leader Support for Innovation Questionnaire (LSIQ)
Authors: Vincent-Höper Sylvie , Stein Maie
Published: November 2019

Purpose

In this study, the authors integrate the concept of leader support with a process model of innovation including the generation, promotion and implementation of innovative ideas to obtain an in-depth understanding of how leaders may support employees’ innovative efforts. The purpose of this paper is to develop an organizing framework and validate a measure for assessing leader support for innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors validated the Leader Support for Innovation Questionnaire (LSIQ) in German and English using samples from Germany (n=1,049) and South Africa (n=129).

Findings

Although confirmatory factor analyses supported a three-factor model of the 12-item LSIQ (leader support for idea generation, promotion and implementation), strong intercorrelations between the factors provide only weak evidence for the three-factor structure. Positive correlations with individual and organizational innovation demonstrate adequate construct validity. The LSIQ explains additional variance in innovation beyond that explained by measures of transformational leadership and leader–member exchange.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that linking leader support and innovation more directly to one another matches the complexity of innovation processes. The LSIQ is a theory based and valid tool that enables more rigorous research on the role of leadership in facilitating innovation.

Originality/value

Previous studies using well-established leadership approaches have produced a considerable heterogeneity of findings on the relationship between leadership and innovation. Therefore, the authors introduce an integrative framework for defining and organizing leadership behaviors specifically supporting employees’ innovative efforts and validate a measure of leader support for innovation that may guide both theoretical developments and empirical research on the relationship between leadership and innovation in organizations.
Predator responses to fire: A global systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Geary William L. , Doherty Tim S. , Nimmo Dale G. , Tulloch Ayesha I. T. , Ritchie Euan G.
Published: November 2019

Knowledge of how disturbances such as fire shape habitat structure and composition, and affect animal interactions, is fundamental to ecology and ecosystem management. Predators also exert strong effects on ecological communities, through top‐down regulation of prey and competitors, which can result in trophic cascades. Despite their ubiquity, ecological importance and potential to interact with fire, our general understanding of how predators respond to fire remains poor, hampering ecosystem management.

To address this important knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the effects of fire on terrestrial, vertebrate predators world‐wide. We found 160 studies spanning 1978–2018. There were 36 studies with sufficient information for meta‐analysis, from which we extracted 96 effect sizes (Hedges'g) for 67 predator species relating to changes in abundance indices, occupancy or resource selection in burned and unburned areas, or before and after fire.

Studies spanned geographic locations, taxonomic families and study designs, but most were located in North America and Oceania (59% and 24%, respectively), and largely focussed on felids (24%) and canids (25%). Half (50%) of the studies reported responses to wildfire, and nearly one third concerned prescribed (management) fires.

There were no clear, general responses of predators to fire, nor relationships with geographic area, biome or life‐history traits (e.g. body mass, hunting strategy and diet). Responses varied considerably between species. Analysis of species for which at least three effect sizes had been reported in the literature revealed that red foxesVulpes vulpesmostly responded positively to fire (e.g. higher abundance in burned compared to unburned areas) and eastern racersColuber constrictornegatively, with variances overlapping zero only slightly for both species.

Our systematic review and meta‐analysis revealed strong variation in predator responses to fire, and major geographic and taxonomic knowledge gaps. Varied responses of predator species to fire likely depend on ecosystem context. Consistent reporting of ongoing monitoring and management experiments is required to improve understanding of the mechanisms driving predator responses to fire, and any broader effects (e.g. trophic interactions). The divergent responses of species in our study suggest that adaptive, context‐specific management of predator–fire relationships is required.
Assurance of the existence of a trans‐boundary population of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) at Tsagaanshuvuut – Tsagan‐Shibetu SPA at the Mongolia–Russia border
Authors: POYARKOV Andrey D. , MUNKHTSOG Bariushaa , KORABLEV Miroslav P. , KUKSIN Alexander N. , ALEXANDROV Dmitry Y. , CHISTOPOLOVA Maria D. , HERNANDEZ‐BLANCO Jose Antonio , MUNKHTOGTOKH Ochirjav , KARNAUKHOV Alexander S. , LKHAMSUREN Namdag , BAYARAA Munkhtsog , JACKSON Rodney M. , MAHESHWARI Aishwarya , ROZHNOV Viatcheslav V.
Published: November 2019

The existence of a trans‐boundary population of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) that inhabits the massifs of Tsagaanshuvuut (Mongolia) – Tsagan‐Shibetu (Russia) was determined through non‐invasive genetic analysis of scat samples and by studying the structure of territory use by a collared female individual. The genetic analysis included species identification of samples through sequencing of a fragment of the cytochrome b gene and individual identification using a panel of 8 microsatellites. The home range of a female snow leopard marked with a satellite Global Positioning System (GPS) collar was represented by the minimum convex polygon method (MCP) 100, the MCP 95 method and the fixed kernel 95 method. The results revealed insignificant genetic differentiation between snow leopards that inhabit both massifs (minimal fixation index [FST]), and the data testify to the unity of the cross‐border group. Moreover, 5 common individuals were identified from Mongolian and Russian territories. This finding clearly shows that their home range includes territories of both countries. In addition, regular movement of a collared snow leopard in Mongolia and Russia confirmed the existence of a cross‐border snow leopard group. These data support that trans‐boundary conservation is important for snow leopards in both countries. We conclude that it is crucial for Russia to study the northern range of snow leopards in Asia.
Emulsifier Composition of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) Affects Mechanical and Barrier Properties of SLN‐Protein Composite Films
Authors: Wiedenmann Verena , Oehlke Kathleen , van der Schaaf Ulrike , Koivula Hanna M. , Mikkonen Kirsi S. , Karbstein Heike P.
Published: November 2019

Protein films can be applied to improve food quality and to reduce packaging waste. To overcome their poor water barrier properties, lipids are often incorporated. The function of incorporated lipid depends on the interface between filler and matrix. This study aimed to tailor the properties of a protein–lipid film by designing the oil/water interface to see if the concept of inactive/active filler is valid. Therefore, we varied the emulsifier stabilizing solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) to promote (via β‐lactoglobulin) or to minimize (via Tween 20) interactions between particle surface and protein. SLN were incorporated into protein films and film properties were determined. Addition of SLN led to significantly decreased water vapor permeability (WVP) of protein films. However, WVP was mainly affected by the emulsifiers and not by the lipid. Protein‐stabilized SLN (BS) replaced a lacking protein in the protein network and therefore did not influence the mechanical properties of the films at ambient temperature. BS‐composite films were temperature sensitive, as lipid and sucrose palmitate melted at temperatures above 40 °C. Tween 20‐stabilized SLN (TS) led to reduced tensile strengths, probably due to perturbative effects of TS and plasticizing effects of Tween 20. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that TS and Tween 20 increased film mobility. Melting of lipid and emulsifiers, and temperature‐dependent behavior of Tween 20 led to a strong temperature dependence of the film stiffness. By designing the interface, particles can be used to tailor mechanical properties of protein films. Tuned edible films could be used to control mass transfers between foods.
Distinguishing nutrient‐dependent plant driven bacterial colonization patterns in alfalfa
Authors: Moccia Katherine , Willems Andrew , Papoulis Spiridon , Flores Alicia , Forister Matthew L. , Fordyce James A. , Lebeis Sarah L.
Published: November 2019

To understand factors that influence the assembly of microbial communities, we inoculated Medicago sativa with a series of nested bacterial synthetic communities and grew plants in distinct nitrogen concentrations. Two isolates in our eight‐member synthetic community, Williamsia sp. R60 and Pantoea sp. R4, consistently dominate community structure across nitrogen regimes. While Pantoea sp. R4 consistently colonizes plants to a higher degree compared to the other six organisms across each community and each nutrient level, Williamsia sp. R60 exhibits nutrient specific colonization differences. Williamsia sp. R60 is more abundant in plants grown at higher nitrogen concentrations, but exhibits the opposite trend when no plant is present, indicating plant‐driven influence over colonization. Our research discovered unique, repeatable colonization phenotypes for individual microbes during plant microbiome assembly, and identified alterations caused by the host plant, microbes, and available nutrients.
Another Brick in the Wall: Mudbrick Construction at the Iron Age II Site of Hili 2 (Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates)
Authors: Karacic Steven , Al Meqbali Ali , Al Kaabi Abdulla , Al Tawallbeh Dia , Fadel Hamad , Sadozaï Chamsia , Magee Peter
Published: November 2019

The Iron Age II site of Hili 2 (Emirate of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) is remarkable because of its preservation. The initial excavations, begun in the 1970s, unearthed mudbrick walls preserved in places two meters high. Fieldwork recommenced at Hili 2 in 2018 and as part of this effort the previously exposed architecture was re‐examined. Of particular interest were three collapsed mudbrick walls that were excavated in order to conserve the surrounding architecture. The walls were removed course by course, providing new insight into mudbrick construction and raising questions about the social organisation of Iron Age settlements.
Cross‐National Comparisons and Correlates of Harms From the Drinking of People With Whom You Work
Authors: Laslett Anne‐Marie , Stanesby Oliver , Wilsnack Sharon , Room Robin , Greenfield Thomas K.
Published: November 2019

Background

While research in high‐income countries (HICs) has established high costs associated with alcohol’s harm to others (AHTO) in the workplace, scant attention has been paid to AHTO in the workplace in lower‐ or middle‐income countries (LMICs).

Aim

To compare estimates and predictors of alcohol’s impacts upon coworkers among workers in 12 countries.

Methods

Cross‐sectional surveys from 9,693 men and 8,606 women employed in Switzerland, Australia, the United States, Ireland, New Zealand, Chile, Nigeria, Lao PDR, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and Sri Lanka. Five questions were asked about harms in the past year because of coworkers’ drinking: Had they (i) covered for another worker; (ii) worked extra hours; (iii) been involved in an accident or close call; or had their (iv) own productivity been reduced; or (v) ability to do their job been affected? Logistic regression and meta‐analyses were estimated with 1 or more harms (vs. none) as the dependent variable, adjusting for age, sex, rurality of location, and the respondent worker’s own drinking.

Results

Between 1% (New Zealand) and 16% (Thailand) of workers reported that they had been adversely affected by a coworker’s drinking in the previous year (with most countries in the 6 to 13% range). Smaller percentages (<1% to 12%) reported being in an accident or close call due to others’ drinking. Employed men were more likely to report harm from coworkers’ drinking than employed women in all countries apart from the United States, New Zealand, and Vietnam, and own drinking pattern was associated with increased harm in 5 countries. Harms were distributed fairly equally across age and geographic regions. Harm from coworkers’ drinking was less prevalent among men in HICs compared with LMICs.

Conclusions

Workforce impairment because of drinking extends beyond the drinker in a range of countries and impacts productivity and economic development, particularly affecting men in LMICs.
Association of a P2RX7 gene missense variant with brachycephalic dog breeds
Authors: Sophocleous R. A. , Sluyter V. , Curtis B. L. , Curtis S. J. , Jurak L. M. , Faulks M. , Spildrejorde M. , Gates S. , Proctor E.‐J. , Seavers A. , Watson D. , Kuit T. , Dowton M. , Stokes L. , Sluyter R.
Published: November 2019

Missense variants are associated with various phenotypic traits and disorders in dogs. The canine P2RX7 gene, coding the ATP‐gated P2X7 receptor ion channel, contains four known missense variants. The current study aimed to examine the presence of these variants in a random sample of pedigree and mixed‐pedigree dogs. Exons 3, 8, 11 and 13 of the P2RX7 gene, encoding these four respective variants, in 65 dogs were assessed by Sanger sequencing and combined with existing sequencing data from another 69 dogs. The distribution of these variants was then evaluated in all 134 dogs combined and separately within individual breeds including 35 different pure breeds. The rs23314713 (p.Phe103Leu) and rs23315462 (p.Pro452Ser) variants were present in 47 and 40% of all dogs studied respectively, with the rs23314713 variant associated with brachycephalic breeds. Among pedigree dogs, the rs23314713 and rs23315462 variants were associated with brachycephalic and non‐brachycephalic breeds respectively. The rs851148233 (p.Arg270Cys) and rs850760787 (p.Arg365Gln) variants were present only in dogs of Cocker Spaniel and Labrador Retriever pedigrees respectively. No other missense variants were found in exons 3, 8, 11 and 13 of the P2RX7 gene within the dogs. In conclusion, the rs23314713 and rs23315462 missense variants of the P2RX7 gene are present in a large proportion of dogs, with the rs23314713 variant associated with a number of brachycephalic breeds. However, the association of this variant with dogs of bulldog ancestry, not brachycephaly per se, cannot be excluded.
State‐of‐the‐art in marketed adjuvants and formulations in Allergen Immunotherapy: A position paper of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI)
Authors: Jensen‐Jarolim Erika , Bachmann Martin F. , Bonini Sergio , Jacobsen Lars , Jutel Marek , Klimek Ludger , Mahler Vera , Mösges Ralph , Moingeon Philippe , O´Hehir Robyn E. , Palomares Oscar , Pfaar Oliver , Renz Harald , Rhyner Claudio , Roth‐Walter Franziska , Rudenko Michael , Savolainen Johannes , Schmidt‐Weber Carsten B. , Traidl‐Hoffmann Claudia , Kündig Thomas
Published: November 2019

Since the introduction of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) over 100 years ago, focus has been on standardization of allergen extracts, with reliable molecular composition of allergens receiving the highest attention. While adjuvants play a major role in European AIT, they have been less well studied. In this Position Paper, we summarize current unmet needs of adjuvants in AIT citing current evidence. Four adjuvants are used in products marketed in Europe: aluminium hydroxide (Al(OH)3) is the most frequently used adjuvant, with microcrystalline tyrosine (MCT), monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) and calcium phosphate (CaP) used less frequently. Recent studies on humans, and using mouse models, have characterized in part the mechanisms of action of adjuvants on pre‐existing immune responses. AIT differs from prophylactic vaccines that provoke immunity to infectious agents, as in allergy the patient is presensitized to the antigen. The intended mode of action of adjuvants is to simultaneously enhance the immunogenicity of the allergen, while precipitating the allergen at the injection site to reduce the risk of anaphylaxis. Contrasting immune effects are seen with different adjuvants. Aluminium hydroxide initially boosts Th2 responses, while the other adjuvants utilized in AIT redirect the Th2 immune response towards Th1 immunity. After varying lengths of time, each of the adjuvants supports tolerance. Further studies of the mechanisms of action of adjuvants may advise shorter treatment periods than the current three‐to‐five‐year regimens, enhancing patient adherence. Improved lead compounds from the adjuvant pipeline are under development and are explored for their capacity to fill this unmet need.
De Winter syndrome may be an early electrocardiogram pattern of acute myocardial infarction, two cases report
Authors: Zhang Lingzhi , Fan Yuncao , Xu Jinzhong , Yan Jianxin , Ruan Qianzi , Jiang Xiaoyan
Published: November 2019

Background

De Winter syndrome is an electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern related to acute occlusion of the anterior descending artery. The incidence rate of De Winter syndrome is rare, but still requires much attention from clinicians.

Methods

Two patients who finnaly diagnosed with De Winter syndrome were included in our study.

Results

A 55‐year‐old male farmer, who was previously healthy, came to the emergency room due to sudden pain in the precordial area for 6 hours, accompanied with back pain and sweating. The second ECG revealed De Winter syndrome. Emergency coronary angiography was taken, which showed a severe atrioventricular block; diffuse stenosis in the proximal and middle segments of the left anterior descending branch, with 90% stenosis in the severest region. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of the left anterior descending artery was performed. A 70‐year‐old man with a history of hypertension arrived at the Emergency Department with chest pain for 3 hours. The first ECG was performed, which was contacted with de winter syndrome. The second ECG demonstrated acute anterior Myocardial infarction. Emergency coronary angiography showed approximately 95% stenosis at the junction of the proximal and middle segments. PCI of the proximal and middle segments of the left anterior descending artery was performed.

Conclusion

De Winter syndrome is a type of acute coronary syndrome, which may be an early ECG pattern in the development of acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction. Therefore, once De Winter syndrome is observed on the ECG, acute coronary syndrome, especially acute anterior descending occlusion should not be ignored.
Sources of QTc variability: Implications for effective ECG monitoring in clinical practice
Authors: Hnatkova Katerina , Malik Marek
Published: November 2019

Pharmaceuticals that prolong ventricular repolarization may be proarrhythmic in susceptible patients. While this fact is well recognized, schemes for sequential QTc interval monitoring in patients receiving QT‐prolonging drugs are frequently overlooked or, if implemented, underutilized in clinical practice. There are several reasons for this gap in day‐to‐day clinical practice. One of these is the perception that serially measured QTc intervals are subject to substantial variability that hampers the distinction between potential proarrhythmic signs and other sources of QTc variability. This review shows that substantial part of the QTc variability can be avoided if more accurate methodology for electrocardiogram collection, measurement, and interpretation is used. Four aspects of such a methodology are discussed. First, advanced methods for QT interval measurement are proposed including suggestion of multilead measurements in problematic recordings such as those in atrial fibrillation patients. Second, serial comparisons of T‐wave morphologies are advocated instead of simple acceptance of historical QTc measurements. Third, the necessity of understanding the pitfalls of heart rate correction is stressed including the necessity of avoiding the Bazett correction in cases of using QTc values for clinical decisions. Finally, the frequently overlooked problem of QT‐heart rate hysteresis is discussed including the possibility of gross QTc errors when correcting the QT interval for simultaneously measured short‐term heart rate.
Knowledge of postpartum care and postbirth warning signs among midwives in Ghana
Authors: Adams Yenupini Joyce , Ray Herman E.
Published: November 2019

Background

In Ghana, midwives are the primary maternity care practitioners. Their knowledge of postpartum care is critical for preventing and reducing maternal deaths because it affects the quality of care provided to women. In addition, midwives’ knowledge of postbirth warning signs is important for early identification and management of complications. This study assessed midwives’ knowledge of postpartum care and postbirth warning signs to develop interventions to improve patient care.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of 246 midwives was conducted in the four main hospitals of Tamale, Ghana. Data were collected using a postpartum care knowledge questionnaire developed by JHPIEGO. Data were analyzed in SAS version 9.4 using descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate statistics.

Results

Mean age of midwives was 31.9 years. The percentage of midwives who responded correctly to each postpartum care question ranged from 41.6% to 84.9%. Most midwives were knowledgeable about breastfeeding—however, knowledge about fundus location, postpartum examination, and care during first 2 hours postpartum was low. Hospital was associated with knowledge of postpartum care (P < .001). Only 28.1% of midwives identified all nine warning signs of complications. Most midwives could identify severe bleeding, severe headaches, and high temperature as warning signs—however, knowledge of warning signs of some life‐threatening complications such as chest pain, obstructed breathing, and thoughts of hurting oneself was low. More years of experience was associated with better knowledge of postbirth warning signs (P = .03).

Discussion

Findings suggest a need for additional training of midwives in how to care for postpartum patients and accurately identify warning signs for life‐threatening complications.
Benefit‐risk assessment of nivolumab 240 mg flat dose relative to 3 mg/kg Q2W regimen in Japanese patients with advanced cancers
Authors: Bei Di , Osawa Mayu , Uemura Shinji , Ohno Tomoya , Gobburu Jogarao , Roy Amit , Hasegawa Mayumi
Published: November 2019

Nivolumab 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks (Q2W) has been approved in Japan for various cancers; however, use of a flat dose is expected to simplify dosing and administration. A quantitative clinical pharmacology approach was used to assess the benefit‐risk profile of nivolumab 240 mg Q2W relative to the approved dose of nivolumab 3 mg/kg Q2W in Japanese patients. Three exposure‐response safety analyses were performed for adverse events that led to discontinuation/death, were grade 3 or higher, and were immune‐mediated and grade 2 or higher for Japanese patients diagnosed with one of multiple tumor types. Exposure‐response analyses of efficacy were evaluated for overall survival and objective response rate. Exposures of nivolumab 240 mg Q2W were 37% higher than those of nivolumab 3 mg/kg Q2W in Japanese patients across the tumor types analyzed. Predicted safety profiles at the two doses differed by less than 2% across tumor types for adverse events leading to discontinuation/death, adverse events of grade 3 or higher, or immune‐mediated adverse events of grade 2 or higher. In addition, the predicted 1‐year and 2‐year overall survival rates, the mean overall survival and the objective response rates were comparable between the doses regardless of the tumor type analyzed. Overall, these results demonstrated that the benefit‐risk of nivolumab 240 mg Q2W was comparable to that of the previously approved 3 mg/kg Q2W dosing regimen, and was the basis for the approval of the 240 mg Q2W as an alternative dosing regimen for treatment in Japanese patients across multiple tumor types.
Accuracy of microcystic aspect on T2‐weighted MRI for the diagnosis of silent corticotroph adenomas
Authors: Kasuki Leandro , Antunes Ximene , Coelho Maria Caroline Alves , Lamback Elisa Baranski , Galvão Sarah , Silva Camacho Aline Helen , Chimelli Leila , Ventura Nina , Gadelha Mônica R.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

A single study suggested that silent corticotropinomas (SCAs) have a different imaging phenotype, with microcystic aspect on T2‐weighted sequence of magnetic resonance imaging (T2‐MRI). This study only analysed manifest and silent corticotropinomas and nonfunctioning gonadotroph adenomas. Therefore, the prevalence of microcystic patterns of other tumours is not known.

Aim

To analyse frequency of microcystic patterns on T2‐MRI in all subtypes of pituitary adenomas and determine accuracy of this radiological finding for diagnosing SCA.

Methods

Consecutive pituitary adenoma patients who underwent surgery between 2013 and 2016 at a single centre were included. T2‐MRIs were evaluated by a radiologist and an endocrinologist blinded to histological diagnosis.

Results

A total of 143 patients (52% female) with median age of 49 years (14‐80) were included. Clinically, there were 90 nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs), 32 somatotropinomas, 13 corticotropinomas, five prolactinomas and three TSH‐secreting adenomas. Of the patients with NFPA, 12 (13%) were SCAs, 73 (79%) were gonadotropinomas and five (6%) were positive for prolactin (three) or TSH (two). A microcystic pattern was observed in 16 tumours (11%): one somatotropinoma, one corticotropinoma, seven SCAs and seven gonadotropinomas, and in no prolactinomas or TSH‐secreting adenomas. It was more common in SCAs than in other tumours (58.3% vs 6.9%, respectively, P < .001) and had a sensitivity of 58%, a specificity of 93% and an accuracy of 90% to define an SCA.

Conclusion

Microcystic aspect on T2‐MRI is able to define SCA with a good accuracy and can be a useful tool, considering the more aggressive behaviour of these tumours.