bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternative polyadenylation drives oncogenic gene expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Venkat Swati , Tisdale Arwen A. , Schwarz Johann R. , Alahmari Abdulrahman A. , Maurer H. Carlo , Olive Kenneth P. , Eng Kevin H. , Feigin Michael E.
Published: February 2020

Alternative polyadenylation (APA) is a gene regulatory process that dictates mRNA 3′-UTR length, resulting in changes in mRNA stability and localization. APA is frequently disrupted in cancer and promotes tumorigenesis through altered expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressors. Pan-cancer analyses have revealed common APA events across the tumor landscape; however, little is known about tumor type–specific alterations that may uncover novel events and vulnerabilities. Here, we integrate RNA-sequencing data from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to comprehensively analyze APA events in 148 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs). We report widespread, recurrent, and functionally relevant 3′-UTR alterations associated with gene expression changes of known and newly identified PDAC growth-promoting genes and experimentally validate the effects of these APA events on protein expression. We find enrichment for APA events in genes associated with known PDAC pathways, loss of tumor-suppressive miRNA binding sites, and increased heterogeneity in 3′-UTR forms of metabolic genes. Survival analyses reveal a subset of 3′-UTR alterations that independently characterize a poor prognostic cohort among PDAC patients. Finally, we identify and validate the casein kinase CSNK1A1 (also known as CK1alpha or CK1a) as an APA-regulated therapeutic target in PDAC. Knockdown or pharmacological inhibition of CSNK1A1 attenuates PDAC cell proliferation and clonogenic growth. Our single-cancer analysis reveals APA as an underappreciated driver of protumorigenic gene expression in PDAC via the loss of miRNA regulation.
Synchrotron radiation diffraction in a single crystal of paratellurite investigated with a new experimental scheme
Authors: Kohn V. G. , Kulikov A. G. , Prosekov P. A. , Seregin A. Yu. , Targonsky A. V. , Eliovich Ya. A. , Pisarevsky Yu. V. , Blagov A. E. , Kovalchuk M. V.
Published: February 2020

First results are presented for synchrotron radiation diffraction in a paratellurite (TeO2) single crystal investigated with a new experimental scheme consisting of a standard monochromator and a relatively narrow slit for collimation and monochromatization of an incident beam. The Bragg case reflection geometry is used. The monochromator, a pair of Si crystals, maintains the initial direction of the beam propagation. The theory is developed for a precise description of the instrumental function in such a scheme. A new rocking curve registration technique with use of an adaptive bending piezoactuator is applied for the first time with the aim to record the narrow diffraction peaks with high accuracy. A sample is attached to one edge of the bidomain lithium niobate single crystal piezoactuator used. The piezoactuator is bent under the influence of an electric field and it changes the angular position of the sample with a very small step. The experimental curves are compared with the calculated diffraction rocking curves of a perfect paratellurite crystal, both the theoretical one and the one calculated taking into account the instrumental function. An instrumental function account allows a complete coincidence of the simulated curves with the experimental results to be obtained if the experimental curve does not coincide with the theoretical rocking curve. A small discrepancy between the theory and the experimental data has been discovered in cases where the incident beam is sufficiently collimated and monochromated. This indicates the presence of a certain number of lattice defects in the sample under study.
Synthesis, crystal structure and conformational analysis of an unexpected [1,5]dithiocine product of aminopyridine and thiovanillin
Authors: Mambourg Kalina , Bodart Laurie , Tumanov Nikolay , Lanners Steve , Wouters Johan
Published: February 2020

The condensation reaction of 2-mercapto-3-methoxybenzaldehyde with 3-aminopyridine afforded an unexpectedN-alkylated [1,5]dithiocine instead of theN-salicylideneaniline. The proposed mechanism for this condensation involves a strong intramolecular hydrogen bond between the thiol and the amine groups, leading to a second condensation. The corresponding product,i.e.4,10-dimethoxy-13-(pyridin-3-yl)-6H,12H-6,12-epiminodibenzo[b,f][1,5]dithiocine methanol 0.463-solvate, C21H18N2O2S2·0.463CH3OH, was characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The supramolecular structure shows π–π stacking and S...S interactions in the crystal packing. Within the asymmetric unit, two geometries of the N atom are observed. Although a planar geometry should be expected, a pyramidal one is observed due to the crystal packing. The presence of the two geometries was further supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations that show an electronic energy difference of less than 2 kJ mol−1between the two conformers.
Optimization of a multi-constraint two-sided assembly line balancing problem using an improved imperialist competitive algorithm
Authors: Yang Mingshun , Ba Li , Xu Erbao , Li Yan , Liu Yong , Gao Xinqin
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Assembly is the last step in manufacturing processes. The two-sided assembly line balancing problem (TALBP) is a typical research focus in the field of combinatorial optimization. This paper aims to study a multi-constraint TALBP-I (MC-TALBP-I) that involves positional constraints, zoning constraints and synchronism constraints to make TALBP more in line with real production. For enhancing quality of assembly solution, an improved imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) is designed for solving the problem.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model for minimizing the weighted sum of the number of mated-stations and stations is established. An improved ICA is designed based on a priority value encoding structure for solving MC-TALBP-I.

Findings

The proposed ICA was tested by several benchmarks involving positional constraints, zoning constraints and synchronism constraints. This algorithm was compared with the late acceptance hill-climbing (LAHC) algorithm in several instances. The results demonstrated that the ICA provides much better performance than the LAHC algorithm.

Practical implications

The best solution obtained by solving MC-TALBP-I is more feasible for determining the real assembly solution than the best solution obtained by solving based TALBP-I only.

Originality/value

A novel ICA based on priority value encoding is proposed in this paper. Initial countries are generated by a heuristic method. An imperialist development strategy is designed to improve the qualities of countries. The effectiveness of the ICA is indicated through a set of benchmarks.
Regulatory focus and learning
Authors: Federman Jessica E.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand how regulatory focus influences informal learning behaviors. A growing body of research indicates that regulatory focus has significant consequences for goal pursuit in the workplace, yet it has not been readily studied or applied to the field of human resource management (Johnsonet al., 2015). This is one of the few studies to examine the relationship between informal learning and regulatory focus theory that can be applied to the training and development field.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative research design, a semi-structured interview was used to increase the comparability of participant responses. Questions were asked in an open-ended manner, allowing for a structured approach for collecting information yet providing flexibility for the sake of gaining more in-depth responses. An interview guideline was used to standardize the questions and ensure similar kinds of information were obtained across participants. A typological analytic approach (Lincoln and Guba, 1985) was used to analyze the data.

Findings

In a sample of 16 working adults, (44% female and 56% male), participants who were identified as having either a promotion- or prevention-focus orientation were interviewed about types of informal learning strategies they used. The results revealed that performance success and failure have differential effects on learning behaviors for prevention and promotion-focus systems. Stress and errors motivate informal learning for the prevention-focus system, whereas positive affect motivates informal learning for the promotion-focus system. Prevention-focus participants articulated greater use of vicarious learning, reflective thinking and feedback-seeking as methods of informal learning. Promotion-focus participants articulated greater use of experimentation methods of informal learning.

Originality/value

This study provides an in-depth understanding of how regulatory focus influences informal learning. Few studies have considered how regulatory focus promotes distinct strategies and inclinations toward using informal learning. Performance success and failure have differential effects on informal learning behaviors for regulatory promotion and prevention systems. This has theoretical and practical implications in consideration of why employees engage in informal learning, and the tactics and strategies they use for learning.
Do intentions ever die? The temporal stability of entrepreneurial intention and link to behavior
Authors: Joensuu-Salo Sanna , Viljamaa Anmari , Varamäki Elina
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aims to contribute to entrepreneurial intention research by examining the theory of planned behavior model in a longitudinal follow-up of the same individuals from a point at which they were studying until six to eight years after graduation and the link between entrepreneurial intention and actual behavior. The objectives of the paper are as follows: to examine the development and temporal stability of entrepreneurial intention and to examine the link between entrepreneurial intention and actual start-up behavior in a longitudinal setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this research originate in Finland and consist three data collection waves between years 2008 and 2018. In the second wave, 282 respondents were reached, and in the third wave, 89 respondents were reached. For examining the stability of entrepreneurial intention, latent growth curve modeling was used. In addition, a logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the link between intention and behavior.

Findings

The results suggest that entrepreneurial intention is a stable construct over time. High and low levels of entrepreneurial intention remain quite stable. Entrepreneurial intention measured during study time significantly explains entrepreneurial behavior both after one to three years (Exp (B) 2,069***) and after six to eight years (Exp (B) 1,830*). Gender and role models are significant factors in predicting entrepreneurial behavior.

Originality/value

This study provides new information on the stability of entrepreneurial intention in a rare longitudinal setting. The study verifies the value of intention measures in predicting entrepreneurial behavior in the long term.
Tapping the potential space-positioning of private labels
Authors: Sharma Veenu , Kedia Bhuvnesh , Yadav Vandana , Mishra Shreya
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the current scenario of private labels from consumers and retailers’ point of view and provide inputs to the retailers that will help them to increase their profitability. Profitability for retailers is a resultant of efficient inventory management in a limited space. This paper studies consumer’s purchase behavior and facilitates retailers in their decision-making of the dilemma between the appropriate mix of national brands (NBs) and private labels to increase their profitability. Retailers will be able to do cross-merchandising of the categories of the goods having strong associations and will increase the shelf space of the products, which are preferred by customers.

Design/methodology/approach

Market basket analysis was done for 1,223 transactions including two or more product categories in each transaction. In total, 564 products were studied and these products were further divided into 23 categories. Lift analysis was done 4 times to find an association between the products of all the categories.

Findings

The results find a strong association between some categories and advocate the placement of these combinations together – one being a NB and another private label.

Research limitations/implications

Analysis of only a limited set of brands and their product categories for a value retailer cross-merchandising.

Originality/value

The analysis of sales transactions will help retailers in determining the associations between product categories. This association will be helpful in placing their private labelsvis-à-visNBs to do cross-merchandising and allocating judicial space to the product assortment to increase their profitability.
Study on influential role of celebrity credibility on consumer risk perceptions
Authors: Deshbhag Raksha R. , Mohan Bijuna C.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of celebrity credibility (trustworthiness, attractiveness and expertise) on risk perception and buying intention of Indian fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study adopted the survey method to know the influence of celebrity credibility dimensions on the perceived risk and purchase intentions of Indian FMCG consumers. This study has performed a survey on 250 respondents using the self-administered questionnaire consisting of 18 measurement scales.

Findings

The major findings of this study indicate celebrity trust and celebrity expertise are the most important dimensions of celebrity to influence the risk perceptions of Indian FMCG consumers. The risk perceptions positively influence the purchase intentions of Indian FMCG consumers.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to the Indian context, but theoretical contributions in terms of justifying the relationship linking variables, which might affect success, as well as the failure of celebrity endorsements.

Practical implications

The research findings can assist the practitioners in selecting the right celebrity endorser as a spokesperson for promoting Indian FMCG brands based on three dimensions of celebrity credibility (trust, expertise and attractiveness).

Originality/value

The study has proposed and tested the new theoretical model considering the celebrity trust, celebrity expertise and celebrity attractiveness as the affective responses from the buyers of FMCG. Perceived risk is mainly cognitive responses influenced through celebrity credible sources. The study attempted to investigate the impact of both affective and cognitive responses on the purchase intentions of Indian FMCG consumers.
Student drinking: is change possible?
Authors: Lumb Tracy
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how the NUS (National Union of Students)’ Alcohol Impact programme is attempting to change patterns of student drinking using findings from the 2017 Students and Alcohol national survey conducted by NUS as context.

Design/methodology/approach

The 2017 Students and Alcohol national survey results were gathered via the distribution of the survey using the NUS’ database of NUS extra cardholders. A total of 2,215 responses was collected. Using this information, the author has approached this paper as a case study of NUS’ Alcohol Impact Programme.

Findings

Results from the 2017 Students and Alcohol national survey demonstrated that although there was a misalignment between what students perceived their peers were drinking prior to university and what they were actually reporting drinking, there was the persistence of harmful behaviours reported after consumption of alcohol. Feedback from partnerships involved in the Alcohol Impact programme has shown measurable improvements in areas including the inclusion of non-drinkers and anti-social behaviour.

Originality/value

Rolled out nationally, Alcohol Impact could be used to take positive steps in addressing the harmful consequences of student alcohol consumption.
Ethical dilemmas in studying family consumption
Authors: Khanijou Ratna , Pirani Daniela
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the types of ethical challenges and dilemmas researchers face when engaging in family consumption research.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from the concept of micro-ethics to bridge reflexivity with ethics in practice, the paper provides a reflexive account of the various ethical dilemmas encountered by two family consumption scholars during their fieldwork. Both researchers conducted qualitative research on family meals.

Findings

The paper reveals five types of ethical tensions that can arise when doing research on family consumption. These tensions are addressed as display, positioning, emotional, practical and consent dilemmas, all of which have ethical implications. The findings unpack these dilemmas, showing empirical and reflexive accounts of the researchers as they engage in ethics in practice. Solutions and practical strategies for dealing with these ethical tensions are provided.

Originality/value

Despite the growing interest in interpretive family research, there is less attention on the ethical and emotional challenges researchers face when entering the family consumption scape. As researching families involves entering an intimate area of participants’ lives, the field may be replete with tensions that may affect the researcher. This paper brings the concept of micro-ethics to family marketing literature, showing how researchers can do ethics in practice. The paper draws on reflexive accounts of two researchers’ personal experiences, showing their emotional, practical, positioning and display challenges. It also provides practical strategies for researchers to deal with dilemmas in the field.
Corporate social reporting in the banking industry of Bangladesh: a test of legitimacy theory
Authors: Islam Mohammad Tazul , Kokubu Katsuhiko , Nishitani Kimitaka
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to test the legitimacy theory (LT) argument in the context of the banking industry of a developing country, taking Bangladesh as a case by interpreting the bank managers’ perceptions in legitimizing corporate social (CS) reporting.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) listed banks data during a 10-year period (2004–2013) and uses Islam and Kokubu (2018) CS reporting index. The LT variables are tested by using multiple regression method. A mixed-method of research with “triangulation design” has been used in this study for a comprehensive understanding of LT variables. In addition, a total number of 28 interviews (ranges from Corporate Social Responsibility Operational Manager to Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer) from 24 listed banks have been conducted to interpret bank managers’ legitimate perception in CS reporting.

Findings

This study supports the applicability of the broader thrust of LT for the banking industry of the developing economies in three ways. First, for companies with lower “proximity to end-users” by density in population disclose more social information than the companies with higher ones to gain/regain/maintain market legitimacy. Second, newer banks with less scope to reach proximity to end-users disclose more social information to fill proximity to tertiary clients’ gap to meet community expectation. Third, companies disclose more social information in their annual reports to legitimize corporate actions in response to the CS reporting initiatives taken by the stakeholders, particularly regulators.

Research limitations/implications

The main implication of this study is that it extends the applicability of the LT for the developing country, in general, and for the banking industry, in particular.

Originality/value

The study enriches the existing LT literature of the developing economies’ banking industry by providing empirical evidence from the banking system in Bangladesh.
Are boys and girls just different? Gender differences in the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, 2nd edition (M ABC‐2) suggests that they are.
Authors: Fairbairn Natalie , Galea Claire , Wallen Margaret , Walker Karen , Hodge Antoinette , Badawi Nadia , Loughran‐Fowlds Alison
Published: February 2020

Introduction

The second edition of the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (M ABC‐2) is a standardised, norm referenced assessment that is frequently used by therapists to identify children with motor difficulties. The norms for the M ABC‐2 were derived from a sample of children in the United Kingdom (UK) and are combined across the age groups for boys and girls. The aims of this research were to investigate gender differences in the performance of 8‐ and 9‐year‐old Australian children and if the norms in our cohort differed from UK‐based M ABC‐2 norms.

Methods

Children aged 8 or 9 years of age who underwent major neonatal cardiac or non‐cardiac surgery and healthy controls were assessed using the M ABC‐2 as part of the Development After Infant Surgery (DAISy) study.

Results

There were statistically significant differences in the scores for boys and girls aged 8‐ and 9‐years old on the M ABC‐2. Girls performed better than boys in manual dexterity and on total standard scores. Our control group compared to the assessment norms scored significantly poorer in manual dexterity, aiming and catching and total standard scores.

Conclusion

Caution should be used when interpreting the results of the M ABC‐2 for Australian 8‐ and 9‐year olds. Contemporary Australian, gender‐specific M ABC‐2 norms should be considered. Further research is required to investigate gender differences and differences in performance of Australian children compared to the assessment norms in other age groups on the M ABC‐2.
Association between state Medicaid expansion status and naloxone prescription dispensing
Authors: Sohn Minji , Talbert Jeffery C. , Delcher Chris , Hankosky Emily R. , Lofwall Michelle R. , Freeman Patricia R.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To test whether Medicaid expansion is associated with (a) a greater number of naloxone prescriptions dispensed and (b) a higher proportion of naloxone prescriptions paid by Medicaid.

Data Sources/Study Setting

We used the IQVIA National Prescription Audit to obtain data on per state per quarter naloxone prescription dispensing for the period 2011‐16.

Study Design

In this quasi‐experimental design study, the impact of Medicaid expansion on naloxone prescription dispensing was examined using difference‐in‐difference estimation models. State‐level covariates including pharmacy‐based naloxone laws (standing/protocol orders and direct authority to dispense naloxone), third‐party prescribing laws, opioid analgesic prescribing rates, opioid‐involved overdose death rates, and population size were controlled for in the analysis.

Principal Findings

Medicaid expansion was associated with 38 additional naloxone prescriptions dispensed per state per quarter compared to nonexpansion controls, on average (P = .030). Also, Medicaid expansion resulted in an average increase of 9.86 percent in the share of naloxone prescriptions paid by Medicaid per state per quarter (P < .001).

Conclusions

Our study found that Medicaid expansion increased naloxone availability. This finding suggests that it will be important to consider naloxone access when making federal‐ and state‐level decisions affecting Medicaid coverage.
On the legacy of normalization
Authors: Duff Cameron
Published: February 2020

In 1998 Howard Parker, Judith Aldridge & Fiona Measham published Illegal Leisure, a ground‐breaking study of profound changes in British youth cultures in the 1990s, and the place of drugs and drug use in these upheavals. This work introduced the ‘normalization thesis’ to the social sciences, offering a novel vocabulary for re‐imagining the normative character of young people's attitudes towards and experiences of illicit drug use. Arriving at the dawn of the new century, the book offered a thoroughgoing re‐thinking of the character of youth cultures at a time of great social, cultural, economic and technological disruption. In so doing, the book deftly anticipated many of the most interesting currents of critical drug studies that followed.
Increasing Tim‐3+CD244+, Tim‐3+CD57+, and Tim‐3+PD‐1+ T cells in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Tan Jiaxiong , Huang Shuxin , Huang Jingying , Yu Zhi , Chen Youchun , Lu Yuhong , Li Yangqiu , Chen Shaohua
Published: February 2020

Aim

To characterize the distribution of T cell immunoglobulin mucin‐domain‐containing‐3 (Tim‐3) within the exhausted T cells in patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and AML in complete remission.

Methods

Tim‐3 expression and coexpression with PD‐1, CD244, and CD57 in CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+T cells were analyzed by multicolored fluorescent flow cytometry in peripheral blood from 28 newly diagnosed, untreated AML patient and 12 cases with AML in complete remission, 23 healthy individuals served as control.

Results

Increasing Tim‐3+CD244+ and Tim‐3+CD57+ in CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells were found in AML and AML‐CR groups in comparison with healthy controls. Similarly, increasing Tim‐3 coexpression PD‐1+ CD3+/CD4+/CD8+ T cells were found in AML group. A high tendency of PD‐1+Tim‐3+CD3+/CD4+/CD8+ T cells was detected in the AML‐M4 subtype group followed by the M2 group, and a low tendency was found in the M3 group. Moreover, Tim‐3+CD244+CD8+ T cells were found to be significantly higher in the M4 than that in M3 group. Dynamic changes of Tim‐3+ T cells in AML patients who achieved CR after chemotherapy at different time points showed that Tim‐3+ T cell subsets were evidently decreased; however, they remained at a higher level in most AML‐CR patients.

Conclusion

We made a novel observation on distribution of Tim‐3+CD244+, Tim‐3+CD57+, and Tim‐3+PD‐1+ T cells in patients with AML. Chemotherapy is incapable of resolving immunosuppression in some cases with AML in CR status.
Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy might provide survival benefit in patients with stage IIIb/IIIc locally advanced rectal cancer: A retrospective single‐institution study with propensity score‐matched comparative analysis
Authors: Sun Xi‐yu , Cai Song‐hua , Xu Lai , Luo Dan , Qiu Hui‐zhong , Wu Bin , Lin Guo‐le , Lu Jun‐yang , Zhang Guan‐nan , Xiao Yi
Published: February 2020

Background

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) and total mesorectal excision (TME) are standard treatments of stage II/III locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), currently. Here, we evaluated the oncological outcomes in LARC patients treated with NACRT compared to TME alone, and determined whether tumor regression grade (TRG) and pathologic response after NACRT was related to prognosis.

Methods

This is a retrospective comparison of 358 LARC patients treated with either TME alone (non‐NACRT group, n = 173) or NACRT plus TME (NACRT group, n = 185) during 2003–2013. Perioperative and oncologic outcomes, like overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS) and recurrence were compared using 1:1 propensity score matching analysis.

Results

A total of 133 patients were matched for the analysis. After a median follow‐up of 45 months (8–97 months), the 5‐year OS (NACRT vs non‐NACRT: 75.42% vs 72.76%; P = 0.594) and 5‐year DFS (NACRT vs non‐NACRT: 74.25% vs 70.13%; P = 0.224) were comparable between NACRT and non‐NACRT, whereas the 5‐year DFS rate was higher in the NACRT group when only stage IIIb/IIIc patients were considered (NACRT vs. non‐NACRT: 74.79% vs. 62.29%; P = 0.056). In the NACRT group of 185 patients, those with pCR/stage I (vs stage II/stage III disease) or TRG3/TRG4 disease (vs TRG0/TRG1/TRG2) had significantly better prognosis.

Conclusion

NACRT might provide survival benefit in patients with stage IIIb/IIIc locally advanced rectal cancer.
Child physical abuse, declining trend in prevalence over 10 years in Sweden
Authors: Kvist Therese , Dahllöf Göran , Svedin Carl Göran , Annerbäck Eva‐Maria
Published: February 2020

Aim

To study trends in prevalence and risk factors of child physical abuse over 10 years in Sweden.

Methods

This study analysed responses from school surveys in 2008, 2011, 2014 and 2017 in Södermanland County, Sweden with average 5125 respondents per year, 15 and 17 years old. There were identical questions on exposure to violence and risk factors including parental employment, separated parents, disability or disease, foreign background and lack of adult support. Intimate partner violence was included at three occasions. Data were analysed with bi‐ and multivariate models, and mean of accumulated risks were compared.

Results

Child physical abuse decreased significantly between 2008 and 2017. Repeated abuse decreased to a less degree than abuse once. In bivariate analyses, the share of risk factors declined for those exposed to physical abuse. In multiple analyses, it was found significant associations with exposure. There was and a dose‐relationship between numbers of accumulated risk categories and self‐reported abuse.

Conclusion

Exposure to child physical abuse decreased substantially between 2008 and 2017. However, prevalence of abuse is still unacceptable, and the finding that prevalence of the more severe forms of CPA decreased less during the same time, draws attention to the need of ongoing efforts.
Brucellosis associated with stillbirth in a bottlenose dolphin in Australia
Authors: Mackie JT , Blyde D , Harris L , Roe WD , Keyburn AL
Published: February 2020

A captive adult female bottlenose dolphin presented with stillbirth. The placenta appeared oedematous. No other gross lesions were evident in the placenta or the stillborn calf. Histopathology revealed mild multifocal placentitis and foetal encephalitis. Brucella sp. was isolated from lung, liver, spleen and kidney. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis demonstrated this organism to be most similar to Brucella ceti sequence type (ST) 27. Brucella sp. DNA was detected in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded placenta and brain by real‐time PCR using primers targeting the IS711 gene. Immunohistochemical staining revealed Brucella sp. antigen in placental inflammation. This is the first report of isolation of Brucella sp. from a marine mammal in the Southern Hemisphere and the first report of marine Brucella‐associated disease in Australia.
Do bipartite binary antagonistic and mutualistic networks have different responses to the taxonomic resolution of nodes?
Authors: Rodrigues Bárbara Nobrega , Boscolo Danilo
Published: February 2020

1. Bipartite network analyses are increasingly being used to better understand mutualistic and antagonistic plant–insect interactions at the community level. As a result of taxonomic limitations, it is usually very difficult to identify all nodes of a network down to the species level and many studies leave some specimens identified as lower resolution taxa. Accordingly, we do not know how much a lower resolution taxonomic representation changes the network structure compared with a representation with all nodes at species level.

2. The present study aimed to test whether insect–plant networks built using different combinations of taxonomic levels can still preserve the same basic structure of networks built only with species.

3. In total, 73 bipartite published interaction networks (mutualistic and antagonistic) were selected, which were turned into binary networks and reconstructed using the nodes classified as species, genus, family or order (representing different levels of classification difficulty). The network structures were compared using their binary representations mainly using connectance, NODF (Nestedness metric based on Overlap and Decreasing Fill) and modularity.

4. The mutualistic network structure was strongly linearly related to the original network structures if all nodes were grouped up to genus level. In antagonistic networks, the structure was related to the original network only if nodes were only grouped at the species level.

5. The findings of the present study are especially helpful for comparative network studies, such as those assessing the effects of environmental gradients. For mutualistic networks, Citizen Science programmes can provide useful ecological indicators, even with its taxonomic limitations.
Environmental determinants of perch (Perca fluviatilis) growth in gravel pit lakes and the relative performance of simple versus complex ecological predictors
Authors: Höhne Leander , Palmer Miquel , Monk Christopher T. , Matern Sven , Nikolaus Robert , Trudeau Ashley , Arlinghaus Robert
Published: February 2020

Growth of fish is an important contributor to individual fitness as well as fish production. Explaining and predicting growth variation across populations is thus important from fundamental and applied perspectives, which requires knowledge about the ecological factors involved in shaping growth. To that end, we estimated environment‐dependent von Bertalanffy growth models for 13 gravel pit lake populations of Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) from north‐western Germany. To identify the main drivers of perch growth, we evaluated the performance of 16 different biotic or abiotic lake variables in explaining growth variation among lakes. In addition, we compared growth predictions from the best‐performing model incorporating “complex” variables that require intensive sampling effort, with a model using only “simple”, easily measurable lake variables (e.g. shoreline development factor). The derivation of a simple model aimed at future applications in typically data‐poor inland fisheries, predicting expected growth potential from easily measurable lake variables. A model combining metabolic biomass of predators, maximum depth and shoreline development factor performed best in predicting perch growth variation across gravel pits. All three parameters in this model were positively related to perch growth. The best‐performing simple model consisted only of the shoreline development factor. Length‐at‐age predictions from both models were largely identical, highlighting the utility of shoreline development factor in approximating growth potential of perch in gravel pits similar to our study lakes. Our results can be used to inform fisheries management and restoration efforts at existing or newly excavated gravel pit lakes.
Plasma Glucose Levels Increase During Spontaneous Attacks of Migraine With and Without Aura
Authors: Zhang Ditte Georgina , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Guo Song , Vestergaard Mark B. , Hougaard Anders , Ashina Messoud
Published: February 2020

Objective

To investigate plasma glucose changes during the ictal state of migraine compared to the interictal state.

Background

Previous studies suggest abnormal glucose metabolism in migraine patients during and outside of attacks. It is not known if plasma glucose levels change during spontaneous migraine attacks.

Methods

Plasma glucose levels were measured during and outside of spontaneous migraine attacks with and without aura. Plasma glucose values were corrected for diurnal variation of plasma glucose by subtracting the difference between the moving average (intervals of 2 hours) and overall mean from the plasma glucose values.

Results

This was a sub‐study of a larger study conducted at Rigshospitalet Glostrup in the Capital Region of Denmark. Thirty‐one patients (24 F, 7 M, 13 with aura, 18 without aura) were included in the study. Mean time from attack onset to blood sampling was 7.6 hours. Mean pain at the time of investigation was 6 on a 0‐10 verbal rating scale. Plasma glucose was higher ictally compared to the interictal phase (interictal mean: 88.63 mg/dL, SD 11.70 mg/dL; ictal mean: 98.83 mg/dL, SD 13.16 mg/dL, difference 10.20 mg/dL, 95% CI = [4.30; 16.10]), P = .0014). The ictal increase was highest in patients investigated early during attacks and decreased linearly with time from onset of migraine (−1.57 mg/dL/hour from onset of attack, P = .020). The attack‐related increase in blood glucose was not affected by pain intensity or presence of aura symptoms.

Conclusions

We demonstrated higher plasma glucose values during spontaneous migraine attacks, independent of the presence of aura symptoms and not related to pain intensity, peaking in the early phase of attacks. Additional studies are necessary to confirm our findings and explore the possible underlying mechanisms.
Simón Bolívar and friends: Recent biographies of independence figures in Colombia and Venezuela
Authors: Racine Karen
Published: February 2020

The biographical genre is closely linked to the process of state building throughout Latin America and the Atlantic world. In the 19th century, statesmen and scholars produced hagiographies of their heroes' lives and viciously attacked their enemies' reputations. In a survey of recent academic biographies of independence figures in Colombia and Venezuela, several themes quickly become apparent. First, general biography remains extremely popular with both readers and writers for a broader public (including for children), but rigorous, well‐documented, scholarly studies are much fewer in number. Second, the genre remains dominated by studies of the lives of Euro‐descended creole men, most of whom were military or political actors, overwhelmingly aligned with patriot side, and resident in urban areas. Third—and directly related to the previous trend—is that most of the biographies are predicated on the concept of glory and glorious achievements. Fourth, biography remains a stubbornly national genre; in research sources and content, there appears to be little cross‐fertilization and content across countries, continents, or languages. And finally, Simón Bolívar remains a towering figure, not only because of the sheer number of biographies devoted to him specifically but also because he casts his long shadow over the life stories of virtually everyone else.
Targeting cognitive function: Development of a cognitive training intervention for diabetes
Authors: Cuevas Heather E. , Stuifbergen Alexa K. , Brown Sharon A.
Published: February 2020

Aim

The aim of this project was to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a comprehensive cognitive training intervention to build self‐efficacy for implementation of cognitive strategies in people with diabetes.

Background

People with diabetes are at greater risk than the general population for developing cognitive dysfunction. Some attention has been paid to the effect of cognitive impairments on diabetes self‐management, but even when cognitive problems have been identified, few interventions have been tailored for those with diabetes.

Methods

The intervention combines in‐person classes and home‐based online computer training. Development, in 2017, included (a) adaptation of prior established, tested interventions; (b) interviews with stakeholders; and (c) integration of course content.

Results

Information provided by the stakeholders was used to modify an existing intervention to meet the needs of people with diabetes so that feasibility testing could occur. Despite initial difficulty with recruitment, the intervention was found to be feasible, and nineteen participants found it to be acceptable.

Conclusion

This comprehensive cognitive training intervention targeting type 2 diabetes and cognitive dysfunction demonstrates that existing interventions can be adapted for use with people with diabetes.
A systematic review on randomized controlled trials: Coaching elements of digital services to support chronically ill adolescents during transition of care
Authors: Tornivuori Anna , Tuominen Outi , Salanterä Sanna , Kosola Silja
Published: February 2020

Aims

To define digital health services that have been studied among chronically ill adolescents and to describe e‐health coaching elements that may have an impact on transition outcomes.

Design

Systematic review without meta‐analysis.

Data sources

MEDLINE (Ovid), Pub Med, Scopus and CINAHL on 28 May 2018.

Review methods

Peer‐reviewed articles published between January 2008‒May 2018 were reviewed following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses statement.

Results

Twelve randomized controlled trials were included. The interventions varied significantly in duration and content. E‐coaching that included human and social support showed positive impact on transition outcomes. Digital health services incorporated into usual care provide efficient and accessible care.

Conclusion

E‐coaching elements enable tailoring and personalization and present a tool for supporting and motivating chronically ill adolescents during transition of care. Future research should evaluate the effectiveness of e‐coaching elements.

Impact

Digital services are considered a means for increasing adolescents' motivation for self‐care and for increasing their accessibility to health care. The coaching elements in digital services consist of a theoretical basis, human support, interactive means and social support. Included interventions varied in terms of duration, dose, content and design. Our results may serve the development of digital health services for adolescents in transition. E‐coaching can be used to engage and motivate chronically ill adolescents to improve health behaviour and self‐management during transition of care.
Vagococcus salmoninarum II—qPCR, tropism and egg‐associated transmission
Authors: Standish Isaac , Leis Eric , Erickson Sara , McCann Rebekah , Puzach Corey , Katona Ryan , Lark Ellen , Bailey Jennifer , Kleman Eric , Buening Jorge , Edwards Carey , Loch Thomas , Phillips Kenneth
Published: February 2020

Vagococcus salmoninarum was identified as the causative agent of a chronic epizootic in broodstock “coaster” brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) at the Iron River National Fish Hatchery. The epizootic spanned more than a year, was unresponsive to multiple florfenicol treatments, and resulted in >50% mortality of the affected fish. The decision was made to cull the remaining fish during spawning, which presented an opportunity to more thoroughly examine V. salmoninarum sampling methods, organ tropism and vertical transmission. A newly developed qPCR targeting the pheS gene was used in concert with bacterial culture to show that V. salmoninarum indeed disproportionately affects females and has a tropism for female reproductive tissues. The study demonstrates that some female reproductive tissues (e.g. ovarian fluid, unfertilized eggs) are also an effective option for non‐lethal detection. Despite the widespread presence of V. salmoninarum in ovarian fluid and on egg surfaces, we found no evidence of intra‐ova transmission.
Effects of post‐packaging pasteurization process on microbial, chemical, and sensory qualities of ready‐to‐eat cured vacuum‐packed Turkey breast
Authors: Vahabi Anaraki Neda , Abbasvali Maryam , Bonyadian Mojtaba
Published: February 2020

Ready‐to‐eat (RTE) cured vacuum‐packed turkey breast was pasteurized (80°C, 5.5 min) and stored at 8°C (like supermarkets refrigerator temperature). After 42 days (current shelf life of this product), in control group (RTE cured vacuum‐packed turkey breast), the number of mesophilic, anaerobic, lactic acid bacteria, mold and yeast, coliform, and psychrotrophic increased 5.82, 6.85, 5.85, 4.75, 1.49, and 5.57 log CFU/g, respectively. However, in the pasteurized samples, the number of mesophilic, anaerobic, and lactic acid bacteria increased 1.86, 2.12, and 2.28 log CFU/g, respectively, and mold and yeast, coliform, and psychrotrophic bacteria were under the detection limit. The effects of post‐packaging pasteurization on the reduction of total mesophilic, anaerobic and lactic acid bacteria counts on Day 42 of storage was 7.04 ± 0.33, 4.73 ± 0.11, and 5.58 ± 0.11 log CFU/g, respectively. Sensory quality of treated samples was significantly better than the control's (p < .05). Post‐packaging pasteurization (PPP) significantly inhibited the reduction in the pH and the increase in TVB‐N, TBARS, titratable acidity, and drip loss (p < .05). This study shows the effectiveness of PPP on microbial, chemical, and sensory quality of cured vacuum‐packed turkey breast during cold storage.
Broad diversity of simian immunodeficiency virus infecting Chlorocebus species (African green monkey) and evidence of cross‐species infection in Papio anubis (olive baboon) in Kenya
Authors: Nyamota Richard , Owino Vincent , Murungi Edwin Kimathi , Villinger Jandouwe , Otiende Moses , Masiga Daniel , Thuita John , Lekolool Isaac , Jeneby Maamun
Published: February 2020

Background

Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) naturally infects African non‐human primates (NHPs) and poses a threat of transmission to humans through hunting and consumption of monkeys as bushmeat. This study investigated the as of yet unknown molecular diversity of SIV in free‐ranging Chlorocebus species (African green monkeys—AGMs) and Papio anubis (olive baboons) within Mombasa, Kisumu and Naivasha urban centres in Kenya.

Methods

We collected blood samples from 124 AGMs and 65 olive baboons in situ, and detected SIV by high‐resolution melting analysis and sequencing of PCR products.

Results

Simian immunodeficiency virus prevalence was 32% in AGMs and 3% in baboons. High‐resolution melting (HRM) analysis demonstrated distinct melt profiles illustrating virus diversity confirmed by phylogenetic analysis.

Conclusions

There is persistent evolutionary diversification of SIVagm strains in its natural host, AGMs and cross‐species infection to olive baboons is occurring. Further study is required to establish pathogenesis of the diverse SIVagm variants and baboon immunological responses.