bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A distinct phylogenetic cluster of Indian SARS-CoV-2 isolates
Authors: Banu Sofia , Jolly Bani , Mukherjee Payel , Singh Priya , Khan Shagufta , Zaveri Lamuk , Shambhavi Sakshi , Gaur Namami , Mishra Rakesh K , Scaria Vinod , Sowpati Divya Tej
Published: June 2020

From an isolated epidemic, COVID-19 has now emerged as a global pandemic. The availability of genomes in the public domain following the epidemic provides a unique opportunity to understand the evolution and spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus across the globe. The availability of whole genomes from multiple states in India prompted us to analyse the phylogenetic clusters of genomes in India. We performed whole-genome sequencing for 64 genomes making a total of 361 genomes from India, followed by phylogenetic clustering, substitution analysis, and dating of the different phylogenetic clusters of viral genomes. We describe a distinct phylogenetic cluster (Clade I / A3i) of SARS-CoV-2 genomes from India, which encompasses 41% of all genomes sequenced and deposited in the public domain from multiple states in India. Globally 3.5% of genomes, which till date could not be mapped to any distinct known cluster fall in this newly defined clade. The cluster is characterized by a core set of shared genetic variants – C6312A (T2016K), C13730T (A88V/A97V), C23929T, and C28311T (P13L). Further, the cluster is also characterized by a nucleotide substitution rate of 1.4 × 10−3variants per site per year, lower than the prevalent A2a cluster, and predominantly driven by variants in the E and N genes and relative sparing of the S gene. Epidemiological assessments suggest that the common ancestor emerged in the month of February 2020 and possibly resulted in an outbreak followed by countrywide spread, as evidenced by the low divergence of the genomes from across the country. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study characterizing the distinct and predominant cluster of SARS-CoV-2 in India.
LINE elements are a reservoir of regulatory potential in mammalian genomes
Authors: Roller Maša , Stamper Ericca , Villar Diego , Izuogu Osagie , Martin Fergal , Redmond Aisling , Ramachanderan Raghavendra , Harewood Louise , Odom Duncan T. , Flicek Paul
Published: June 2020

To investigate the mechanisms driving regulatory evolution across tissues, we experimentally mapped promoters, enhancers, and gene expression in liver, brain, muscle, and testis from ten diverse mammals. The regulatory landscape around genes included both tissue-shared and tissue-specific regulatory regions, where tissue-specific promoters and enhancers evolved most rapidly. Genomic regions switching between promoters and enhancers were more common across species, and less common across tissues within a single species. Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (LINEs) played recurrent evolutionary roles: LINE L1s were associated with tissue-specific regulatory regions, whereas more ancient LINE L2s were associated with tissue-shared regulatory regions and with those switching between promoter and enhancer signatures across species. Our analyses of the tissue-specificity and evolutionary stability among promoters and enhancers reveal how specific LINE families have helped shape the dynamic mammalian regulome.

HIGHLIGHTS

Tissue-specific regulatory regions evolve faster than tissue-shared

Switching promoter and enhancer regulatory roles is frequent in evolution

LINE L1s contribute to the evolution of tissue-specific regulatory regions

LINE L2s are associated with broad tissue activity and dynamic regulatory signatures
LIN28B controls the regenerative capacity of neonatal murine auditory supporting cells through activation of mTOR signaling
Authors: Li Xiaojun , Doetzlhofer Angelika
Published: June 2020

Mechano-sensory hair cells within the inner ear cochlea are essential for the detection of sound. In mammals, cochlear hair cells are only produced during development and their loss, due to disease or trauma, is a leading cause of deafness. In the immature cochlea, prior to the onset of hearing, hair cell loss stimulates neighboring supporting cells to act as hair cell progenitors and produce new hair cells. However, for reasons unknown, such regenerative capacity (plasticity) is lost once supporting cells undergo maturation. Here, we demonstrate that the RNA binding protein LIN28B plays an important role in the production of hair cells by supporting cells and provide evidence that the developmental drop in supporting cell plasticity in the mammalian cochlea is, at least in part, a product of declining LIN28B-mTOR activity. Employing murine cochlear organoid and explant cultures to model mitotic and non-mitotic mechanisms of hair cell generation, we show that loss ofLin28bfunction, due to its conditional deletion, or due to overexpression of the antagonistic miRNAlet-7g, suppressed Akt-mTORC1 activity and renders young, immature supporting cells incapable of generating hair cells. Conversely, we found that LIN28B overexpression increased Akt-mTORC1 activity and allowed supporting cells that were undergoing maturation to de-differentiate into progenitor-like cells and to produce hair cells via mitotic and non-mitotic mechanisms. Finally, using the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin, we demonstrate that LIN28B promotes supporting cell plasticity in an mTORC1-dependent manner.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Cochlear hair cell loss is a leading cause of deafness in humans and other mammals. In the immature cochlea lost hair cells are regenerated by neighboring glia-like supporting cells. However, for reasons unknown, such regenerative capacity is rapidly lost as supporting cells undergo maturation. Here we identify a direct link between LIN28B-mTOR activity and supporting cell plasticity. Mimicking later developmental stages, we found that loss of the RNA binding protein LIN28B attenuated mTOR signaling and rendered young, immature supporting cells incapable of producing hair cells. Conversely, we found that re-expression of LIN28B reinstated the ability of maturing supporting cells to revert to a progenitor-like state and generate hair cells via activation of mTOR signaling.
Population structure of eulachonThaleichthys pacificusfrom Northern California to Alaska using single nucleotide polymorphisms from direct amplicon sequencing
Authors: Sutherland Ben J. G. , Candy John , Mohns Kayla , Cornies Olivia , Jonsen Kim , Le Khai , Gustafson Richard G. , Nichols Krista M. , Beacham Terry D.
Published: June 2020

EulachonThaleichthys pacificus, a culturally and ecologically important anadromous smelt (Family Osmeridae), ranges from Northern California to the southeast Bering Sea. In recent decades, some populations have experienced declines. Here we use a contig-level genome assembly combined with previously published RADseq-derived markers to construct an amplicon panel for eulachon. Using this panel, we develop a filtered genetic baseline of 521 variant loci genotyped in 1,989 individuals from 14 populations ranging from Northern California through Central Alaska. Consistent with prior genetic studies, the strongest separation occurs among three main regions: from Northern California up to and including the Fraser River; north of the Fraser River to southeast Alaska; and within the Gulf of Alaska. Separating the Fraser River from southern US populations, and refining additional substructure within the central coast may be possible in mixed-stock analysis; this will be addressed in future work. The amplicon panel outperformed the previous microsatellite panel, and thus will be used in future mixed-stock analyses of eulachon in order to provide new insights for management and conservation of eulachon.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Dehydrated Lipopolysaccharide Membrane
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Elvati Paolo , Violi Angela
Published: June 2020

The outer membrane of bacteria is known to play an important role in the rapid response to desiccation, although the causes and the extent of these effects are still mostly unclear. For this reason, in this work we study the desiccation response of the Gram-negative lipopolysaccha-ride (LPS) bacterial outer membranes. By analyzing molecular dynamics simulations of LPS membranes of different composition during desiccation, we identified the formation of a rigid protective layer of polysaccharides that not only reduces the water evaporation but is also able to indirectly preserve several structural features and as such membrane functionality. Overall, we found that the presence of polysaccharide layer is critical in the conservation of a layer of water in proximity of the hydrophobic region as well as the structure of the lipids acyl chain structure.
Physiological responses of two accessions of tomato to three distance regimes in juvenile oil palm-tomato intercrop in rainforest zone of nigeria
Authors: Oluwatobi Ayodele Samuel
Published: June 2020

This study was conducted during the rainy season of 2017 within the alleys of juvenile oil palms that were 2-year-old at the oil palm plantation located in Ala, Akure-North Local Government, Ondo State. Tomato accessions (NGB 01665 and NG/AA/SEP/09/053) were intercropped at 1, 2 and 3 m from the juvenile oil palm within the alley in a randomized complete block design. The results showed that tomato (NGB 01665 and NG/AA/SEP/09/053) planted at 3 m from the juvenile oil palm performed better than those at other planting distances in terms of growth and yield attributes with number of fruit; fruit weight and yield per hectare of 39.50, 2265.8 g and 3.74 ton/ha respectively. However, the control (sole) recorded the best yield but was not significantly different from those planted at 3 m from the juvenile oil palm. Varietal advantage was recorded by tomato (NGB 01665) with higher number of fruits, fruit weight and yield per hectare (26.94, 1834 g and 3.158 ton/ha) respectively. Intercropping advantage was not recorded for any of the intercropping distance regimes during the trial (when the juvenile oil palms were 2-year-old), with LER values less than unity.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (Cdk2) controls phosphatase-regulated signaling and function in platelets
Authors: Woods Paul R. , Hood Brian L. , Shiva Sruti , Conrads Thomas P. , Suchko Sarah , Steinman Richard
Published: June 2020

Cell cycle regulatory molecules including cyclin-dependent kinases can be recruited into non-nuclear pathways to coordinate cell cycling with the energetic state of the cell or with functions such as motility. Little is known about the role of cell cycle regulators in anucleate cells such as platelets. We report that cyclin-dependent kinase (cdk2) is robustly expressed in human platelets, is activated by thrombin and is required for platelet activation. Cdk2 activation required Src signaling downstream of the platelet thrombin receptor PAR1. Kinase-active cdk2 promoted the activation of downstream platelet kinases by phosphorylating and inactivating the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1). Erk was bound to PP1 in a complex with the PP1 regulator PPP1R12a (MYPT1) in platelets, and cdk2 inhibited the phosphatase activity of PP1 and PPP1R12a bound complexes. The requirement for cdk2 in Erk activation could be replaced by the phosphatase inhibitor calyculin if cdk2 was inhibited. Blockade of cdk2 kinase with chemical and peptide cdk2 inhibitors resulted in suppression of thrombin-induced platelet aggregation, and partially inhibited GPIIb/IIIa integrin activation as well as platelet secretion of P-Selectin and ATP. Together, these data indicate a requirement for cdk2 in platelet activation.
Depression polygenic scores are associated with major depressive disorder diagnosis and depressive episode in Mexican adolescents
Authors: Rabinowitz Jill A. , Campos Adrian I. , Benjet Corina , Su Jinni , Macias-Kauffer Luis , Méndez Enrique , Martinez-Levy Gabriela A. , Cruz-Fuentes Carlos S. , Rentería Miguel E.
Published: June 2020

Objective

Large-scale genome-wide association studies have uncovered genetic variants associated with depression; however, most of this work has been limited to adults of European ancestry. We investigate the ability of depression polygenic risk scores (PRS) to predict both lifetime and past year major depressive disorder (MDD) diagnosis and the experience of a major depressive episode (MDE) in a sample of adolescents with admixed ancestry from Mexico City, and explore whether adverse life events moderate these relations.

Methods

The study sample consisted of adolescents (N = 1,152) aged 12–17 from Mexico City who were interviewed and genotyped as part of a general population survey on adolescent mental health. PRS for depression were derived using summary statistics from a large-scale discovery genome-wide association study (GWAS) conducted on depressive symptoms that included over 800,000 individuals of European ancestry (Howard et al., 2019).

Results

Higher depression PRS were associated with a higher likelihood of both past year MDD and MDE and lifetime MDE, accounting for 1.5%-2.5% of the variance in these outcomes. Adversity did not moderate the relationship between depression PRS and lifetime or past year MDD or MDE.

Limitations

This study is cross-sectional. As such, a few participants might have experience MDD/MDE after the interview. In addition, our sample comprised only Mexican youth and thus it may not generalize to other populations.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that depression PRS derived from a European ancestry GWAS are associated with MDD and MDE risk among Mexican adolescents and have the potential to aid in the identification of youth who may be genetically prone to developing depressive symptoms.
Characterisation of the Renal Cortical Transcriptome Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery in Experimental Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Nair Meera , Martin William P. , Zhernovkov Vadim , Elliott Jessie A. , Fearon Naomi , Eckhardt Hans , McCormack Janet , Godson Catherine , Brennan Eoin Patrick. , Fändriks Lars , Docherty Neil G. , le Roux Carel W.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery (RYGB) reduces albuminuria and the long-term incidence of end-stage renal disease in patients with obesity and diabetes. Preclinical modelling in experimental diabetic kidney disease (DKD) demonstrates that improvements in glomerular structure likely underpin these findings.

Research Design & Methods

In adult male Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats, we profiled the effect of RYGB on weight and metabolic control as well biochemical, structural and ultrastructural indices of diabetic renal injury. Furthermore, we sequenced the renal cortical transcriptome in these rats and used bioinformatic pathway analyses to characterise the transcriptional alterations governing the renal reparative response to RYGB

Results

In parallel with improvements in weight and metabolic control, RYGB reduced albuminuria, glomerulomegaly, podocyte stress, and podocyte foot process effacement. Pathway analysis of RYGB-induced transcriptomic changes in the renal cortex highlighted correction of disease-associated alterations in fibrosis, inflammation and biological oxidation pathways. RYGB reversed disease-associated changes in the expression of TGF-β superfamily genes that strongly correlated with improvements in structural measures of glomerulopathy.

Conclusions

Improved glomerular structure in ZDF rats following RYGB is underpinned by pathway level changes, including interruption of the TGF-β driven pro-fibrotic programme. Our data provide an important layer of experimental support for clinical evidence demonstrating that RYGB arrests renal damage in patients with obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.

KEY MESSAGES

What is already known about this subject?

RYGB is an effective treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes and longitudinal cohort studies have demonstrated it’s albuminuria lowering effect and evidence of longer term reno-protection.

Studies in pre-clinical models of diabetic kidney disease have described favourable changes in measures of renal structure and ultrastructure following RYGB.

What are the new findings?

The present study directly correlates structural and ultrastructural improvements in the ZDF rat kidney following RYGB with corrective shifts in the global renal transcriptome.

Chronic renal remodelling responses in experimental DKD that are governed by TGF-β signalling are interrupted and reversed by RYGB.

How might these results change the focus of research or clinical practice?

These data will support further interrogation of RYGB specific shifts in the renal transcriptome with a view to identifying tractable targets for treatment response biomarkers and bariatric mimetic based diet and pharmacotherapy based interventions.
Molecular Bases of the Membrane Association Mechanism Potentiating Antibiotic Resistance by New Delhi Metallo-β-Lactamase 1
Authors: Prunotto Alessio , Bahr Guillermo , González Lisandro J. , Vila Alejandro J. , Dal Peraro Matteo
Published: June 2020

Resistance to last-resort carbapenem antibiotics is an increasing threat to human health, as it critically limits therapeutic options. Metallo-β-lactamases are the largest family of carbapenemases, enzymes that inactivate these drugs. Among MBLs, New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase 1 has experienced the fastest and largest worldwide dissemination. This success has been attributed to the fact that NDM-1 is a lipidated protein anchored to the outer membrane of bacteria, while all other MBLs are soluble periplasmic enzymes. By means of a combined experimental and computational approach, we show that NDM-1 interacts with the surface of bacterial membranes in a stable, defined conformation, in which the active site is not occluded by the bilayer. Although the lipidation is required for a long-lasting interaction, the globular domain of NDM-1 is tuned to interact specifically with the outer bacterial membrane. In contrast, this affinity is not observed for VIM-2, a natively soluble MBL. Finally, we identify key residues involved in the membrane interaction of NDM-1, which constitute potential targets for developing therapeutic strategies able to combat resistance granted by this enzyme.
FlopR: An open source software package for calibration and normalization of plate reader and flow cytometry data
Authors: Robinson Clare M. , Fedorec Alex J. H. , Yan Wen Ke , Barnes Chris P.
Published: June 2020

The measurement of gene expression using fluorescence markers has been a cornerstone of synthetic biology for the last two decades. However, the use of arbitrary units has limited the usefulness of this data for many quantitative purposes. Calibration of fluorescence measurements from flow cytometry and plate reader spectrophotometry has been implemented previously but the tools are disjointed. Here we pull together, and in some cases improve, extant methods into a single software tool, written as a package in the R statistical framework. The workflow is validated usingEscherichia coliengineered to express GFP from a set of commonly used constitutive promoters. We then demonstrate its power by identifying the time evolution of distinct subpopulations of bacteria from bulk plate reader data, a task previously reliant on laborious flow cytometry experiments. Along with standardized parts and experimental methods, the development and dissemination of usable tools for quantitative measurement and data analysis will benefit the synthetic biology community by improving interoperability.

Graphical Abstract
Learning to synchronize: Midfrontal theta dynamics during rule switching
Authors: Verbeke Pieter , Ergo Kate , De Loof Esther , Verguts Tom
Published: June 2020

In recent years, several hierarchical extensions of well-known learning algorithms have been proposed. For example, when stimulus-action mappings vary across time or context, the brain may learn two or more stimulus-action mappings in separate modules, and additionally (at a hierarchically higher level) learn to appropriately switch between those modules. However, how the brain mechanistically coordinates neural communication to implement such hierarchical learning, remains unknown. Therefore, the current study tests a recent computational model that proposed how midfrontal theta oscillations implement such hierarchical learning via the principle of binding by synchrony (Sync model). More specifically, the Sync model employs bursts at theta frequency to flexibly bind appropriate task modules by synchrony. 64-channel EEG signal was recorded while 27 human subjects (Female: 21, Male: 6) performed a probabilistic reversal learning task. In line with the Sync model, post-feedback theta power showed a linear relationship with negative prediction errors, but not with positive prediction errors. This relationship was especially pronounced for subjects with better behavioral fit (measured via AIC) of the Sync model. Also consistent with Sync model simulations, theta phase-coupling between midfrontal electrodes and temporo-parietal electrodes was stronger after negative feedback. Our data suggest that the brain uses theta power and synchronization for flexibly switching between task rule modules, as is useful for example when multiple stimulus-action mappings must be retained and used.

Significance Statement

Everyday life requires flexibility in switching between several rules. A key question in understanding this ability is how the brain mechanistically coordinates such switches. The current study tests a recent computational framework (Sync model) that proposed how midfrontal theta oscillations coordinate activity in hierarchically lower task-related areas. In line with predictions of this Sync model, midfrontal theta power was stronger when rule switches were most likely (strong negative prediction error), especially in subjects who obtained a better model fit. Additionally, also theta phase connectivity between midfrontal and task-related areas was increased after negative feedback. Thus, the data provided support for the hypothesis that the brain uses theta power and synchronization for flexibly switching between rules.
Disruption of glycogen metabolism alters cell size inEscherichia coli
Authors: van der Walt Felix E , Bürgy Léo , Engelbrecht Lize , Adams Rozanne CM , de Stadler Jessica , Strydom Lindi , George Gavin M , Zeeman Samuel C , Kossmann Jens , Lloyd James R
Published: June 2020

The availability of nutrients impacts cell size and growth rate in many organisms. Research inE. colihas traditionally focused on the influence of exogenous nutrient sources on cell size through their effect on growth and cell cycle progression. Utilising a set of mutants where three genes involved in glycogen degradation - glycogen phosphorylase (glgP), glycogen debranching enzyme (glgX) and maltodextrin phosphorylase (malP)- were disrupted, we examined if endogenous polyglucan degradation affects cell size. It was found that mutations tomalPincreased cell lengths and resulted in substantial heterogeneity of cell size. This was most apparent during exponential growth and the phenotype was unaccompanied by alterations in Z-ring occurrence, cellular FtsZ levels and generation times. ΔmalPmutant cells did, however, accumulate increased DnaA amounts at late growth stages indicating a potential effect on DNA replication. Replication run-out experiments demonstrated that this was indeed the case, and that DNA replication was also affected in the other mutants. Bacteria with a disruption inglgXaccumulated glycogen and protein inclusion bodies that coincided with each other at inter-nucleoid and polar regions.
On Reliability of the COVID-19 Forecasts
Authors: Baruah Hemanta Kumar
Published: June 2020

In this expository article, we are aiming to show with an example that even short term forecasts regarding the COVID-19 spread pattern may sometimes not be very reliable. We have studied data published by Worldometers.info to get numerically an approximate formula of the spread pattern for a short period. We have observed that in the United States of America, there was a nearly exponential spread pattern for a very short period from May 3 to May 8, 2020. From May 9 to May 13, the nearly exponential character of the spread was found to be absent. Hence it can be concluded that the COVID-19 spread pattern, even after more than four months from the start of the outbreak, is not quite predictable. Therefore even short term forecasts regarding the spread may not be very reliable. We have found that forecasts using the assumption of an exponential pattern of spread may actually lead to overestimation.
Progress toward understanding chromosome silencing by Xist RNA
Authors: Brockdorff Neil , Bowness Joseph S. , Wei Guifeng
Published: June 2020

The X inactive-specific transcript (Xist) gene is the master regulator of X chromosome inactivation in mammals.Xistproduces a long noncoding (lnc)RNA that accumulates over the entire length of the chromosome from which it is transcribed, recruiting factors to modify underlying chromatin and silence X-linked genes incis. Recent years have seen significant progress in identifying important functional elements in Xist RNA, their associated RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), and the downstream pathways for chromatin modification and gene silencing. In this review, we summarize progress in understanding both how these pathways function in Xist-mediated silencing and the complex interplay between them.
Preparing Immunoprecipitations for Immunoblotting
Authors: Litovchick Larisa
Published: June 2020

Immunoprecipitated proteins can be readily analyzed by immunoblotting. Proteins can be efficiently eluted from the Protein A or similar beads by addition of the SDS-PAGE sample loading buffer and heating at 95°C. This elution procedure will also remove the capturing antibody from the beads unless the antibody was cross-linked to the beads. Alternatively, the immunoprecipitated proteins as well as non-cross-linked capture antibodies can be eluted from the beads using low (2.1–2.8) or high (10–11) pH conditions. Incubation of the immunoprecipitates with the excess of the competing peptide allows the elution of the captured proteins without contamination of the sample with the antibodies present in the immunoprecipitates. However, this option is not always available, and the cost of competing peptide can be prohibitive for the routine immunoprecipitation/immunoblotting experiments. In this protocol, elution of the immunoprecipitated proteins from the beads is performed by mixing Protein A or similar beads containing the immunoprecipitated protein antigens of interest with SDS-PAGE sample buffer and boiling to prepare samples for protein gel electrophoresis.
Expression of Cloned Genes Using the Baculovirus Expression System
Authors: Kielkopf Clara L. , Bauer William , Urbatsch Ina L.
Published: June 2020

The general strategy of the baculovirus expression system is to infect insect cells with a virus that expresses a foreign protein at a very late stage of infection. Almost all baculovirus expression systems use the procedures for insect cell transfection, baculovirus production, and protein expression given in the main portion of this protocol. This protocol also includes a method that uses molecular biology techniques to produce recombinant baculovirus DNA in E. coli before transfection of insect cells. It is important to quantify the viral titer to achieve optimal and reproducible expression of target proteins. Accordingly, the viral plaque assay is also described here.
Purification of Polyhistidine-Tagged Proteins by Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography
Authors: Kielkopf Clara L. , Bauer William , Urbatsch Ina L.
Published: June 2020

Immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) is based on the affinity of polyhistidine tracts for divalent metal cations (usually Ni2+) immobilized as transition metal chelate complexes on a chromatography resin. The main protocol here is optimized for use of Ni2+–NTA resin to purify soluble 6xHis-tagged proteins by a straightforward batch method during the binding step, followed by gravity flow for washes and elution. This protocol does not require any specialized equipment other than a simple glass or plastic column. IMAC resins can be used in multiple formats, including batch, gravity flow, centrifuge columns, and fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC) systems. FPLC systems are designed specifically for the chromatographic separations of proteins and other biomolecules. These systems typically contain multiple pumps, an in-line UV absorption monitor, conductivity meter, pH meter, fraction collector, and other options that allow for the simultaneous purification, analysis, and fractionation of the sample. When linked with the appropriate instruments, an FPLC can become a high-precision, automated instrument that separates proteins at a high resolution. An alternative protocol is included here that describes 6xHis-tagged protein purification using FPLC. Procedures for the cleaning and regeneration of the IMAC resin for reuse are also described, and, finally, considerations for storing purified proteins are discussed.
The chord-length distribution of a polyhedron
Authors: Ciccariello Salvino
Published: June 2020

The chord-length distribution function [γ′′(r)] of any bounded polyhedron has a closed analytic expression which changes in the different subdomains of the r range. In each of these, the γ′′(r) expression only involves, as transcendental contributions, inverse trigonometric functions of argument equal to R[r, Δ1], Δ1 being the square root of a second-degree r polynomial and R[x, y] a rational function. As r approaches δ, one of the two end points of an r subdomain, the derivative of γ′′(r) can only show singularities of the forms |r − δ|−n
and |r − δ|−m+1/2, with n and m appropriate positive integers. Finally, the explicit analytic expressions of the primitives are also reported.
Recovery from mental illness versus substance use disorder
Authors: Corrigan Patrick W. , Qin Sang , Davidson Larry , Schomerus Georg , Shuman Valery , Smelson David
Published: June 2020

Purpose

While serious mental illness (SMI) and substance use disorders (SUD) are common, less research has focused on causal beliefs across conditions. This is an important question when trying to understand the experience of dual diagnosis. The purpose of this paper is to examine how three factors representing causal beliefs (biogenetic, psychosocial or childhood adversity) differ by SMI and SUD. This study also examined how causal beliefs were associated with overall, process and outcome beliefs about recovery.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Mechanical Turks online panel, 195 research participants from the general public completed measures of recovery – overall, outcome and process – for SMI and SUD. Participants also completed the Causal Beliefs Scale yielding three causal factors for SMI and separately for SUD: biogenetic, psychosocial and childhood adversity.

Findings

Results indicated participants endorsed biogenetic cause more for SMI and SUD. Moreover, research participants endorsed biogenetic causes more than the other two for SMI. Results also showed the psychosocial cause was positively associated with recovery for SMI. Biogenetic causes were not. Almost none of the causal indicators was significantly associated with recovery for SUD.

Originality/value

Implications of these findings for future research and public efforts to enhance attitudes about recovery are discussed.
E-learning training in work corporations: a review on instructional planning
Authors: Kaizer Betânia Mafra , Silva Carlos Eduardo Sanches , de Pavia Anderson Paulo , Zerbini Thaís
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The main purpose of this work is a bibliometric and descriptive review of the literature on instruction planning of training offered in the e-learning modality in work corporations to identify methodologies and experiences that will serve as a model for professionals working in planning e-learning training in the corporate context.

Design/methodology/approach

The timeline from 2010 to 2020 was adopted. Data were extracted from five databases and were compiled in the software Zotero. Based on defined criteria, 260 productions were identified. The interrelation and metric presentation of the data from these studies were done in the software VosViewer. Subsequently, were selected only free access papers, resulting in 64 publications. From these, we chose 6 empirical studies for a descriptive analysis based on specific criteria.

Findings

The range of hardware and software platforms has stimulated the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) resources in corporative training. The use of management tools, such as Voice of Customer (VOC) and Quality Function Deployment (QFD), can support those responsible for instructional planning. The literature presented important elements that should be considered for the proper planning of an e-Learning training: learner: feedback, control of self-learning process, classification of cultural profiles in the case of courses in which participants are geographically distant and training management: content and delivery mode of instruction.

Originality/value

We selected 6 empirical studies that presented models, systems or experiences on training planning to support decisions in this area. This article contributes to the area of T&D showing an updated context of practices for the implementation of training systems that have been adopted in several countries. We present quantitative indicators of scientific production using two additional software to support the bibliometric review: Zotero and VosViewer. This article used five databases and a research equation to systematically present the current panorama of research on training planning from the perspective of the areas of management and organizational psychology.
Characteristics transferred into simulation-based learning of nursing programs
Authors: Nodari Cristine Hermann , de Almeida Daiane Riva , Nunes Fabiano de Lima , Sordi Jefferson Dobner , Bez Marta
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to relate the characteristics transferred from teaching into simulation-based learning in nursing by highlighting how they are presented and, thus, focus on more assertive pedagogical actions in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was performed in the Brazilian context through a survey, and the data were analyzed by the structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results show meaningful relationships for the four factors that are impacted by simulation-based learning: clinical reasoning for decision-making, patient safety, self-confidence and knowledge.

Practical implications

This research identified the importance of simulation as an alternative to improving the teaching–learning process, and it can contribute to structuring the nursing program curriculum and other training zones, by enabling the inclusion of new methodological modalities.

Originality/value

The simulation strategy becomes a differential tool in the integration between theory and practice, especially in the nursing program, and promotes teamwork, leadership and communication, self-confidence, critical thinking, clinical reasoning, priority management, decision-taking and conflict management.
The severity of a sports-related accident and sponsorship effects: focusing on the fear appeal theory
Authors: Lee Sanghak , Suh Young Ik
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of a sports-related accident and its severity on sponsorship effects, including brand recognition, attitude toward the sponsoring brand and purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The fear appeal theory and sensation-seeking are applied as a theoretical framework. The research is carried out via an experiment using auto racing video footage and print material that manipulates the severity of accidents at three levels – no accident, an accident with a minor injury and an accident resulting in a fatality.

Findings

The analyses demonstrate that the severity of the accident elicits varying sponsorship effects. Sponsorship effects are maximized in a minor injury condition, while smaller sponsorship effects are garnered in the absence of an accident or during fatal injury conditions, as expected via the fear appeal theory. These results suggest that sports fans are excited by auto racing crashes, but are averse to witnessing a fatal accident.

Research limitations/implications

The participants of the experiment were all students. Consequently, the participants did not represent all sports fans. Only auto racing was examined as experiment stimuli. Different demographic characteristics (e.g. age, race, nationality) and sports could differently influence the relationships among the research variables.

Practical implications

Potential sponsors do not need to take a negative view of the dangers of sports accidents. Rather, it is recommended that such companies actively plan their sponsorship activities with the appropriate strategy.

Originality/value

The relationship between the severity of a sports-related accident and sponsorship effects has received little attention regarding its potential impact on brand recognition, attitude toward the sponsoring brand and purchase intention. The current study is the first known empirical research using the fear appeal theory in sports sponsorship. It investigates the severity of a sports-related accident and determines how that severity influences sponsorship effects in auto racing. This study provides a better understanding of the effects of an accident and its severity on sponsorship effects.
Unintended negative consequences of loyalty programs: endowed vs earned loyalty
Authors: Baker Melissa A. , Legendre Tiffany S.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Loyalty programs are pervasive across service industries. However, the examination of cross-customer effects represents a critical gap in the loyalty literature. To address this gap, this research conducts two between-subjects experimental design studies to examine traditional versus endowed loyalty status earner attitudinal loyalty intention toward the company, switching intentions and perceived unfairness.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 conducts a 2 (self: earned vs endowed) × 2 (others: earned vs endowed) between-subjects experimental design on the direct effects of attitudinal loyalty intention toward the company and switching intentions. Study 2 builds upon these findings by examining the mediation effect of perceived unfairness on the attitudinal loyalty intention toward the company and switching intentions.

Findings

Results from Study 1 find that cross-customer comparisons exist, and traditional loyalty members have negative attitudinal loyalty intention toward the company and switching intentions when comparing their rewards to endowed earner rewards. Study 2 examines an airline context and finds that unfairness mediates the relationship.

Originality/value

The research builds upon the literature surrounding cross-customer comparisons, loyalty programs, equity theory and endowed status and discusses the unintended negative consequences related to endowed loyalty rewards on other customer intentions that have critical managerial implications.
Entrepreneur’s background and product innovation
Authors: Marques Natan de Souza , Sbragia Roberto , Oliveira Junior Moacir de Miranda , Borini Felipe
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Analyzing the association between the entrepreneur’s background and product innovation, this paper aims to propose that some entrepreneur’s features are associated with the product innovation in incubated companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved 95 technology-based firms incubated in Brazil. Questionnaires were sent to 461 technology-based incubated firms of the state, of which 112 have responded; however, only 95 met the established criteria, which was analyzed by logistic regression.

Findings

It was found that companies whose entrepreneurs have technical academic education closer to the Exact Sciences promote more innovation in products, regardless the size of their companies. In addition, in smaller firms, besides the technical background closer to the Exact Sciences, the entrepreneur's experience in the company also showed positive association regarding the intensity with which such firms innovate in products.

Practical implications

Results indicate that entrepreneurs who were selected taking into account their technical background closer to the Exact Sciences are more likely to contribute to the product innovation in their companies. Therefore, investing in their businesses will also increase the likelihood of success in the efficient allocation of the incubator resources.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper is reflected by the presentation of relations between entrepreneur’s background and product innovation in technology-based incubated firms in an emerging economy, highlighting the value of some characteristics of entrepreneur’s background to promote product innovation.
Improving boys' reading comprehension with readers theatre
Authors: Young Chase , Mohr Kathleen A.J. , Landreth Shelly
Published: June 2020

Research on readers theatre has indicated that it can improve elementary students' reading achievement and can be motivating, engaging and enjoyable, even for reluctant or struggling readers. Because of the potential for improvement and the engagement factor, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of readers theatre on young male students, a population that tends to be more reluctant to read. This matched quasi‐experimental study examined the differential effects of readers theatre on second‐grade boys' decoding, word knowledge and reading comprehension. Students were pretested and posttested using the Gates‐MacGinitie Reading Test. With the use ofa propensity score matching procedure, 46 students were matched from a sample of 76 on the basis of pretest scores, English‐language learner status, at‐risk status and whether the students received special education services. A repeated measures analysis of variance detected a time effect on the reading comprehension measure, which was qualified by an interaction effect, indicating that boys in the treatment group outperformed those in the business‐as‐usual comparison group. Implementing readers theatre in elementary classrooms may be an effective means for engaging young male students in the reading process and improving their reading comprehension. Additional implications for instruction, limitations and directions for future research are also discussed.
Small for gestational age—cognitive performance from infancy to adulthood: an observational study
Authors: Eves R , Mendonça M , Bartmann P , Wolke D
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine whether cognitive performance from infancy to adulthood is affected by being born small for gestational age (SGA), and if this depends on the SGA reference used. Furthermore, to determine SGA’s effect while considering the effects of very preterm/very low birthweight (VP/VLBW), socio‐economic status (SES) and parent–infant relationship.

Design, setting and population

A total of 414 participants (197 term‐born, 217 VP/VLBW) of the Bavarian Longitudinal Study.

Methods

Small for gestational age was classified using neonatal or fetal growth references. SES and the parent–infant relationship were assessed before the infant was 5 months old.

Main outcome measures

Developmental (DQ) and intelligence (IQ) tests assessed cognitive performance on six occasions, from 5 months to 26 years of age.

Results

The fetal reference classified more infants as SGA (<10th centile) than the neonatal reference (n = 138, 33% versus n = 75, 18%). Using linear mixed models, SGA was associated with IQ −8 points lower than appropriate for gestational age, regardless of reference used (95% CI −13.66 to −0.64 and 95% CI −13.75 to −1.98). This difference narrowed minimally into adulthood. Being VP/VLBW was associated with IQ −16 (95% CI −21.01 to −10.04) points lower than term‐born participants. Low SES was associated with IQ −14 (95% CI −18.55 to −9.06) points lower than high SES. A poor parent–infant relationship was associated with IQ −10 points lower than those with a good relationship (95% CI −13.91 to −6.47).

Conclusions

Small for gestational age is associated with lower IQ throughout development, independent of VP/VLBW birth, low SES or poor parent–child relationship. Social factors effects on IQ comparable to those of SGA and should be considered for interventions.

Tweetable abstract

Small for gestational age is associated with lower cognitive performance from infancy to adulthood.
Does undiagnosed diabetes mitigate the association between diabetes and cognitive impairment? Findings from the ELSI‐Brazil study
Authors: Cochar‐Soares Natália , de Carvalho Danilo H. T. , de Andrade Fabíola B. , Castro‐Costa Erico , de Oliveira Cesar , Lima‐Costa Maria F. , Alexandre Tiago da S.
Published: June 2020

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with cognitive impairment. However, most of the evidence has been based on self‐reported T2DM, and undiagnosed diabetes has not been considered as a separate category. We aimed to examine the extent to which undiagnosed diabetes modifies the association between diabetes and cognitive impairment in a representative sample of Brazilian adults aged 50 years and older.

Methods

We analyzed baseline data from 1944 participants of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI‐Brazil) conducted from 2015 to 2016. Diabetes was evaluated based on self‐reported doctor diagnosis and glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Participants were classified as diabetics (D), undiagnosed diabetics (UDD), or nondiabetics (ND). Cognitive function was assessed by word list learning and verbal fluency tests. Three multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate the changes in the strength of the associations.

Results

Participants with diabetes had 49% greater odds of exhibiting impaired memory than nondiabetics (odds ratio [OR] = 1.49; 95% CI: 1.01‐2.20). By combining UDD and ND, the association between diabetes and impaired memory was attenuated by 2.0%, losing its statistical significance (OR = 1.46; 95% CI: 0.98‐2.17). By combining UDD and D, the association was attenuated by 7.4% (OR = 1.38; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.90). No significant association was found between T2DM and impaired verbal fluency.

Conclusion

This study found an association between T2DM and impaired memory but not with impaired verbal fluency. When UDD individuals are considered diabetics, this association is attenuated; when UDD individuals are considered as ND, this association is attenuated to the extent that it loses its statistical significance, affecting thus the clinical interpretation.
A Content Analysis of Clinical Indicators of the Nursing Diagnosis Ineffective Breathing Pattern
Authors: Maia Pascoal Lívia , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira , Silva Viviane Martins da , Maciel Diniz Camila , Mendes Nunes Marília , Amorim Beltrão Beatriz , Sousa Freire Vanessa Emille Carvalho de
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE

To verify the relevance of the clinical indicators, the clarity and precision of the conceptual, and operational definitions for Ineffective breathing pattern (IBP).

METHODS

A content analysis by 39 judges.

FINDINGS

The results showed 28 clinical indicators for IBP. However, only seven were not considered relevant for the diagnosis. These are not listed in NANDA International taxonomy. All conceptual and operational definitions were adequate, according to the analysis of the judges.

CONCLUSION

The list of 28 clinical indicators of IBP was submitted for analysis by judges, which then resulted in the validation of 21 of these elements.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

This study clarifies that gaps in the structure of diagnoses, helping nurses' diagnostic reasoning process in clinical practice.