bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic development incentive program deadweight: The role of program design features, firm characteristics, and location
Authors: Rephann Terance J.
Published: January 2020

This paper examines the effectiveness of state economic development incentive programs in stimulating new business activity. It reviews literature that identifies factors that potentially influence the effectiveness of incentives. Empirical work draws on a 2018 survey of approximately 150 firms that received at least one award for startup, expansion, or relocation purposes during the period SFY2010–SFY2016 from a state economic development incentive program (i.e., grant, tax credit, loan, equity investment) offered by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The paper evaluates the role of program design features (e.g., discretionary vs. automatic, relative size of incentive), firm characteristics (e.g., size of firm, industry), and locational variables (e.g., state boundary location, rurality) on firm assessments of the role of incentives in business growth decisions. It finds that firms that receive up‐front or discretionary program awards and undertake multistate site searches are less likely to report that the incentive was not needed for their project to succeed. These results suggest that automatic, back‐loaded award programs, and programs that fund noncompetitive projects are less likely to affect firm location and expansion decisions.
Masculinities in the construction industry: A double‐edged sword for health and wellbeing?
Authors: Hanna Esmée , Gough Brendan , Markham Steven
Published: January 2020

Construction remains a male‐dominated industry and men in construction suffer high rates of illness and injury compared to other industries. Consideration of men and masculinities may support any attempt to maintain and promote the health and wellbeing of construction workers. This article discusses qualitative case study research conducted with stakeholders in the UK construction industry around health and wellbeing. Our thematic analysis highlights how masculinities operate to both inhibit and promote healthy practices. On the one hand, a culture of stoicism pertaining to illness or injury was evident, whilst a competitive ethos between occupational groups was observed to increase risk‐taking and poor health choices. However, interviewees identified homosocial camaraderie and respect for lived experience as a means to promote positive health behaviour. Differences between younger and older generations of employees were noted. Overall, we argue that men's work and associated health practices can be understood as ‘rational’ individualized responses to structural deregulation and insecurity within the construction industry.
Are going‐concern issues disclosed in audit reports associated with subsequent bankruptcy? Evidence from the United States
Authors: Desai Vikram , Desai Renu , Kim Joung W. , Raghunandan Kannan
Published: January 2020

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has expressed interest in the following issues related to going‐concern modified audit opinions (GCOs): auditor's communication of factors that led to the GCO, the role of liquidity versus other factors in GCOs, and the subsequent failures of clients with GCOs. We use a sample of 2,921 first‐time GCOs spanning the years 1999 to 2015 in the United States and find that profitability factors are cited in 81% of GCOs while liquidity issues are cited in 56% of GCOs. Overall, 16.8% of the first‐time GCO clients entered bankruptcy within one year. After controlling for the probability of bankruptcy, client size, and auditor type, for clients of Big N auditors, the disclosure of profitability factors in the GCO is associated with a higher likelihood of subsequent bankruptcy; in contrast, for clients of non–Big N auditors, disclosures of liquidity and solvency problems are associated with a higher likelihood of subsequent bankruptcy. Our findings provide an empirical grounding for the debates surrounding GCOs and provide useful information for standard‐setters and financial statement users.
Highly transparent cerium doped glasses with full‐band UV‐shielding capacity
Authors: Teng Liming , Jiang Yuncheng , Zhang Wenna , Wei Rongfei , Guo Hai
Published: January 2020

With thinning of the ozone layer, considerable attention has been paid to developing materials that block or reduce ultraviolet (UV) transmission. Here, bulk cerium doped glasses with relatively high transparency were successfully manufactured using the melt‐quenching method. The varied ratio of Ce3+ and Ce4+ in glasses could be deduced by optical properties in photoluminescence excitation, emission spectra, decay curves and absorption spectra. These glasses exhibit excellent UV‐blocking capacity due to the absorption of Ce3+ and Ce4+. Their outstanding physical and chemical stability have been demonstrated in the condition of high temperature, long‐term UV radiation, strong alkali solution and acetone. Hence, our cerium doped glasses are potentially attractive candidates in UV‐shielding device.
circRNA circ‐CCND1 promotes the proliferation of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma through elevating CCND1 expression via interacting with HuR and miR‐646
Authors: Zang Yanzi , Li Jing , Wan Baoluo , Tai Yong
Published: January 2020

Cyclin D1 (CCND1) is a well‐known proliferation promoter that accelerates G1/S transition in cancer. However, the underlying mechanism by which CCND1 is regulated is still largely unknown. In this study, we identified a novel circular RNA (circRNA) derived from CCND1 (circ‐CCND1, hsa_circ_0023303) as a key regulator for CCND1. circ‐CCND1 was found to be markedly up‐regulated in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and closely associated with aggressive clinical features and adverse prognosis. Depletion of circ‐CCND1 significantly inhibited LSCC cell proliferation in vitro and retarded tumour growth in vivo. Regarding the mechanism, circ‐CCND1 physically bound to human antigen R (HuR) protein to enhance CCND1 mRNA stability; on the other hand, circ‐CCND1 could act as an effective sponge for miR‐646 to alleviate the repression of miR‐646 on CCND1 mRNA. As a result, circ‐CCND1 post‐transcriptionally elevated CCND1 expression via coordinated avoidance of CCND1 mRNA decay, thereby promoting LSCC tumorigenesis. Taken together, our findings uncover the essential proliferation‐promoting role of circ‐CCND1 through regulation of the stability of CCND1 mRNA in LSCC. Targeting circ‐CCND1 may be a promising treatment for LSCC patients.
Climate change, sex reversal and lability of sex‐determining systems
Authors: Schwanz Lisa E. , Georges Arthur , Holleley Clare E. , Sarre Stephen D.
Published: January 2020

Sex reversal at high temperatures during embryonic development (e.g., ZZ females) provides the opportunity for new genotypic crosses (e.g., ZZ male × ZZ female). This raises the alarming possibility that climatic warming could lead to the loss of an entire chromosome—one member of the sex chromosome pair (the Y or W)—and the transition of populations to environmental sex determination (ESD). Here we examine the evolutionary dynamics of sex‐determining systems exposed to climatic warming using theoretical models. We found that the loss of sex chromosomes is not an inevitable consequence of sex reversal. A large frequency of ZZ sex reversal (50% reversal from male to female) typically divides the outcome between loss of the ZW genotype and the stable persistence of ZZ males, ZW females and ZZ females. The amount of warming associated with sex chromosome loss depended on several features of wild populations—environmental fluctuation, immigration, heritable variation in temperature sensitivity and differential fecundity of sex‐reversed individuals. Chromosome loss was partially or completely buffered when sex‐reversed individuals suffered a reproductive fitness cost, when immigration occurred or when heritable variation for temperature sensitivity existed. Thus, under certain circumstances, sex chromosomes may persist cryptically in systems where the environment is the predominant influence on sex.
The effect of artificial accelerated aging on the color stability, microhardness, and surface roughness of different dental laminate veneer materials
Authors: Taşın Simge , Celik Gozde , İsmatullaev Artur , Usumez Aslihan
Published: January 2020

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of artificial accelerated aging (AAA) on color stability, surface roughness, and microhardness of three laminate veneer (LV) materials.

Materials and Methods

Specimens of ceramic LV (CLV‐IPS E.max Press), hand‐layered composite LV (hand‐layered laminate veneer [HLV]‐Tetric N‐Ceram), and prefabricated composite LV (prefabricated laminate veneer [PLV]‐Componeer Coltene) were prepared as discs (n = 10). CIE L*, a*, and b* color coordinates, the Vickers microhardness, and surface roughness were measured 24 hours after preparation and reevaluated after aging for 300 hours in an ultraviolet (UV)‐AAA system (Ci35 Weather‐Ometer). Color difference (CIEDE2000 [ΔE00]) was calculated. Data were statistically analyzed with the Shapiro‐Wilk test and the Kruskall‐Wallis test followed by the Mann‐Whitney U tests (α = .05).

Results

All of the LV groups showed significant differences in ΔE00 after AAA (P < .001). Comparing the color changes of the HLVs with the PLVs, no significant difference could be found (P = .705). There was a statistically significant difference in the means of changes in microhardness among the LVs materials (P < .001). The changes in surface roughness results showed a significant difference after AAA in all the LVs (P < .001).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the color stability, the microhardness, and surface roughness of tested LVs were influenced by AAA.

Clinical significance

The prefabricated composite LV system does not replace the individualized ceramic LV technique, but rather offers an alternative to hand‐layered LVs, which is delicate and time‐consuming technique.
Sleep deprivation regulates availability of PrPC and Aβ peptides which can impair interaction between PrPC and laminin and neuronal plasticity
Authors: da Luz Marcio H. M. , Pino Jessica M. V. , Santos Tiago G. , Antunes Hanna K. M. , Martins Vilma R. , de Souza Altay A. L. , Torquato Ricardo J. S. , Lee Kil S.
Published: January 2020

PrPC is a glycoprotein capable to interact with several molecules and mediates diverse signaling pathways. Among numerous ligands, laminin (LN) is known to promote neurite outgrowth and memory consolidation, while amyloid‐beta oligomers (Aβo) trigger synaptic dysfunction. In both pathways, mGluR1 is recruited as co‐receptor. The involvement of PrPC/mGluR1 in these opposite functions suggests that this complex is a key element in the regulation of synaptic activity. Considering that sleep‐wake cycle is important for synaptic homeostasis, we aimed to investigate how sleep deprivation affects the expression of PrPC and its ligands, laminin, Aβo, and mGluR1, a multicomplex that can interfere with neuronal plasticity. To address this question, hippocampi of control (CT) and sleep deprived (SD) C57BL/6 mice were collected at two time points of circadian period (13 hr and 21 hr). We observed that sleep deprivation reduced PrPC and mGluR1 levels with higher effect in active state (21 hr). Sleep deprivation also caused accumulation of Aβ peptides in rest period (13 hr), while laminin levels were not affected. In vitro binding assay showed that Aβo can compete with LN for PrPC binding. The influence of Aβo was also observed in neuritogenesis. LN alone promoted longer neurite outgrowth than non‐treated cells in both Prnp+/+ and Prnp0/0 genotypes. Aβo alone did not show any effects, but when added together with LN, it attenuated the effects of LN only in Prnp+/+ cells. Altogether, our findings indicate that sleep deprivation regulates the availability of PrPC and Aβ peptides, and based on our in vitro assays, these alterations induced by sleep deprivation can negatively affect LN–PrPC interaction, which is known to play roles in neuronal plasticity.

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Resolvin D1 ameliorates cognitive impairment following traumatic brain injury via protecting astrocytic mitochondria
Authors: Ren Yi-Zhi , Zhang Ben-Zheng , Zhao Xiao-Jing , Zhang Zhi-Yuan
Published: January 2020

Cognitive impairment is one of the most common and devastating neuropsychiatric sequelae after traumatic brain injury (TBI), and hippocampal neuronal survival plays a causal role in this pathological process. Resolvin D1 (RvD1), an important endogenous specialized pro‐resolving mediator, has recently been reported to exert a potent protective effect on mitochondria. This suggests that RvD1 may suppress neuroinflammation and protect astrocytic mitochondria at the same time to play further neuroprotective roles. C57BL/6 mice subjected to TBI using a controlled cortical impact device were used for in vivo experiments. Cultured primary mouse astrocytes and an N2a mouse neuroblastoma cell line were used for in vitro experiments. In TBI mice, RvD1 significantly ameliorated cognitive impairment, suppressed gliosis and alleviated neuronal loss in the hippocampus. To explore the mechanism underlying this activity, we verified that RvD1 can induce a higher level of mitophagy to remove damaged mitochondria and eliminate extra mitochondria‐derived reactive oxygen species (mitoROS) by activating ALX4/FPR2 receptors in astrocytes. In an in vitro model, we further confirmed that RvD1 can protect mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential in astrocytes and thereby enhance the survival of neurons. Meanwhile, RvD1 was also shown to increase the expression of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and glutamate aspartate transporter in the hippocampus following TBI, which indicates a possible way by which RvD1 increases the supportive function of astrocytes. These findings suggest that RvD1 may be a potent therapeutic option for ameliorating cognitive impairment following TBI by controlling neuroinflammation and protecting astrocytic mitochondria.

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What Drives Anomaly Returns?
Authors: LOCHSTOER LARS A. , TETLOCK PAUL C.
Published: January 2020

We decompose the returns of five well‐known anomalies into cash flow and discount rate news. Common patterns emerge across the five factor portfolios and their mean‐variance efficient (MVE) combination. Whereas discount rate news predominates in market returns, systematic cash flow news drives the returns of anomaly portfolios and their MVE combination with the market portfolio. Anomaly cash flow and discount rate shocks are largely uncorrelated with market cash flow and discount rate shocks and with business cycle fluctuations. These rich empirical patterns restrict the joint dynamics of firm cash flows and the pricing kernel, thereby informing models of stocks' expected returns.
Impact of echocardiography on parental anxiety in children with innocent murmurs
Authors: Ip Fiona H L , Hay Margaret , Menahem Samuel
Published: January 2020

Aim

Heart murmurs are not uncommon in childhood. Once noted, they may induce appreciable parental anxiety even if the likely diagnosis is that of an innocent murmur. This study aimed to clarify if a confirmatory echocardiogram may increase parental understanding and reduce their anxiety even though the murmur had been diagnosed as being innocent by an experienced paediatric cardiologist.

Methods

Parents of children referred to a paediatric cardiologist for evaluation of a murmur were asked to complete a State Trait Anxiety Inventory after the cardiologist's clinical diagnosis of an innocent murmur. The questionnaire was repeated after cross‐sectional echocardiography to assess if there was a change in the parental understanding regarding their child's murmur and to review their level of anxiety.

Results

Over the time available for the study, 62 parents were recruited consecutively wherever possible. Forty‐eight (77%) completed both questionnaires. There was a reduction in the state anxiety level following the echocardiogram in parents who exhibited a high (n = 23) or even a low‐level trait anxiety (n = 25) (P < 0.05). Enhanced parental understanding of the diagnosis was also demonstrated.

Conclusions

Reduced parental anxiety and an increase in their understanding after echocardiography suggested that the procedure may have an important role in the management of innocent murmurs even after the initial reassurance by a paediatric cardiologist.
What are the self‐reported unmet dental treatment needs of people living with HIV in British Columbia? A case of minority subpopulation in Canada
Authors: Jessani Abbas , Aleksejuniene Jolanta , Donnelly Leeann , Phillips J. Craig , Nicolau Belinda , Brondani Mario
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To identify associations of Andersen and Newman's (A&N) predisposing, enabling, and need factors with self‐reported oral health status and self‐reported unmet dental treatment needs in a sample of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in British Columbia (BC), Canada.

Methods

Participants responded anonymously to a 41‐item online questionnaire with the following inclusion criteria: a) be at least 19 years old; b) self‐identify as HIV‐positive; c) be able to provide consent and be willing to voluntarily participate in the study; d) be residing in British Columbia; and e) be able to proficiently respond to the questions in English. Following the descriptive statistics, associations between A&N model factors and the main outcome variables (self‐reported oral health status and self‐reported dental treatment needs) were evaluated using bivariate inferential analyses.

Results

A total of 186 participants met the inclusion criteria. Approximately 40% (n = 74) of participants rated the health of their mouth as fair/poor and more than half (n = 112; 60.2%) reported having bleeding gums, tooth decay or tooth sensitivity. The bivariate analysis for the self‐reported oral status as the outcome variable showed “having fair/poor general health” (P = 0.001), “unemployment” (P = 0.019), “avoiding dental treatment due to cost” (P = 0.005), and “not visiting a dental professional within the last year” (P < 0.001) as the strongest predictors. For the second outcome variable unmet dental treatment needs, the strongest predictors were “experience of being discriminated by dental professionals” (P = 0.001), “having fair/poor general health” (P = 0.006), and “suffering from past and current medical conditions due to HIV” (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Several predisposing, enabling and need factors from the A&N model were associated with self‐reported oral health status and unmet dental treatment needs of PLHIV. Results from this study highlight the needs of improving access to affordable dental care to address the unmet oral health needs of PLHIV.
Association between abdominal ultrasound findings, the specific canine pancreatic lipase assay, clinical severity indices, and clinical diagnosis in dogs with pancreatitis
Authors: Cridge Harry , Sullivant Alyssa M. , Wills Robert W. , Lee Alison M.
Published: January 2020

Background

A clinical diagnosis (CDx) of pancreatitis includes evaluation of clinical signs, abdominal ultrasound (AUS), and pancreatic lipase. However, practitioners are using AUS to diagnose pancreatitis and are using AUS severity to guide decisions. The validity of this is unknown.

Objectives

To determine whether (1) there is a correlation between AUS, specific canine pancreatic lipase (Spec cPL) assay, and CDx; (2) individual AUS abnormalities correlate more closely with CDx than others; (3) AUS severity mirrors clinical severity indices; (4) changes in AUS can be used as a marker for changes in Spec cPL or CDx; and (5) the sensitivity and specificity of AUS for pancreatitis.

Animals

One hundred fifty‐seven dogs.

Methods

In this retrospective case study, inclusion criteria were signs of gastrointestinal, pancreatic disease, or both, in addition to having a Spec cPL and AUS performed within 30 hours. Information extracted from the records included bloodwork, Spec cPL, AUS images/clips, and severity of ultrasonographic findings.

Results

AUS was weakly correlated with Spec cPL (rs= .0178,P= .03) and moderately correlated with CDx (rs= .379,P= <.001). Pancreatic size (rs= .285,P= <.001), echogenicity (rs= .365,P= <.001), and mesenteric echogenicity (rs= .343,P= <.001) were correlated with CDx. Change in AUS was not correlated with Spec cPL or CDx changes. When pancreatic enlargement, echogenicity, or altered mesenteric echogenicity were required for a diagnosis, the sensitivity and specificity were 89% (95% confidence interval [CI] 71.8, 97.7) and 43% (95% CI 34.0, 51.6). When all 3 criteria were required, the sensitivity and specificity were 43% (95% CI 24.5, 62.8) and 92% (95% CI 85.3, 95.7).

Conclusions

AUS should not be used in isolation to diagnose pancreatitis and is a poor indicator of severity.
Gut microbiota compositional and functional fingerprint in patients with alcohol use disorder and alcohol‐associated liver disease
Authors: Addolorato Giovanni , Ponziani Francesca R. , Dionisi Tommaso , Mosoni Carolina , Vassallo Gabriele A. , Sestito Luisa , Petito Valentina , Picca Anna , Marzetti Emanuele , Tarli Claudia , Mirijello Antonio , Zocco Maria Assunta , Lopetuso Loris R. , Antonelli Mariangela , Rando Maria M. , Paroni Sterbini Francesco , Posteraro Brunella , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Gasbarrini Antonio
Published: January 2020

Background & aims

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) represents the most common cause of liver disease. The gut microbiota plays a critical role in the progression of alcohol‐related liver damage. Aim of this study was to characterize the gut microbial composition and function in AUD patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease (AALD).

Methods

This study included 36 AUD patients (14 with cirrhosis) who were active drinkers and an equal number of matched controls. Stool microbial composition, serum levels of lipopolysaccharide, cytokines/chemokines and gut microbiota functional profile were assessed.

Results

AUD patients had a decreased microbial alpha diversity as compared to controls (0.092 vs 0.130, P = .047) and a specific gut microbial signature. The reduction of Akkermansia and the increase in Bacteroides were able to identify AUD patients with an accuracy of 93.4%. Serum levels of lipopolysaccharide (4.91 vs 2.43, P = .009) and pro‐inflammatory mediators (tumour necrosis factor alpha 60.85 vs 15.08, P = .001; interleukin [IL] 1beta 4.43 vs 1.72, P = .0001; monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 225.22 vs 16.43, P = .006; IL6 1.87 vs 1.23, P = .008) were significantly increased in AUD patients compared to controls and in cirrhotic patients compared to non‐cirrhotic ones (IL6 3.74 vs 1.39, P = .019; IL8 57.60 vs 6.53, P = .004). The AUD‐associated gut microbiota showed an increased expression of gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) metabolic pathways and energy metabolism.

Conclusions

AUD patients present a specific gut microbial fingerprint, associated with increased endotoxaemia, systemic inflammatory status and functional alterations that may be involved in the progression of the AALD and in the pathogenesis of AUD.
Damping estimation using enhanced virtual dynamic shaker: A web‐enabled framework
Authors: Kwon Dae‐Kun , Hwang Jae‐Seung , Kareem Ahsan
Published: January 2020

Damping estimation from laboratory, full‐scale, or computational simulation is critical in response prediction of structures under wind, waves, or earthquake effects. A virtual dynamic shaker (VDS)‐based scheme was recently developed for system identification (SI) of structures for processing (weakly) stationary responses, that is, frequency and damping features that offers, especially the added advantage of its basic simplicity over other schemes. While the VDS has shown performance, equivalent to other popular SI schemes, it is based on the assumption of the global flatness of the load spectrum (i.e., white noise assumption) like used in most other SI schemes, which may not always be appropriate in practical applications. In addition, it is restricted to data from a single‐degree‐of‐freedom (SDOF) response (or unimodal response) to obtain accurate modal characteristics. To address these potential shortcomings, this study revisits the VDS scheme and offers an enhancement by invoking local flatness assumption (EVDS) to possibly improve the damping estimation with the assumption that the load spectrum is flat only around the natural frequencies of the desired modes. A new formulation involving the effect of the ground motion induced vertical vibrations of a building is also introduced for both the VDS and the EVDS. Extensive examples through numerical simulation and full‐scale data, including a comparison with other popular SI schemes, demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed EVDS scheme. To facilitate expeditious and convenient utilization of the proposed EVDS as well as the VDS, this study has implemented a web‐enabled framework, named VDS‐Damping, for on‐demand and on‐the‐fly applications through user‐friendly input and result interfaces. A recently developed mode decomposition scheme, state space‐based mode decomposition (SSBMD), is implemented in the framework to assist in analyzing output from multiple modes and eliminates restriction of SDOF system. Accordingly, the SSBMD can also serve as a stand‐alone mode decomposition tool to separate response in each mode. This framework enables users to estimate damping on‐the‐fly by uploading with ease their data.
Modelling optimal timing and frequency of insecticide sprays for eradication or knockdown of closed populations of tsetse flies Glossina spp. (Diptera: Glossinidae)
Authors: Barclay H. J. , Hargrove J. W. , van den Driessche P.
Published: January 2020

A population model for tsetse species was used to assess the optimal number and spacing of airborne sprays to reduce or eradicate a tsetse population. It was found that the optimal spray spacing was determined by the time (days) from adult emergence to the first larviposition and, for safety, spacing was assigned to that duration minus 2 days. If sprays killed all adults, then the number of sprays required for eradication is determined by a simple formula. If spray efficiency is less than 100% kill per spray, then a simulation was used to determine the optimal number, which was strongly affected by spray efficiency, mean daily temperature, pupal duration, age to first larviposition and the acceptance threshold for control, rather than eradication. For eradication, it is necessary to have a spray efficiency of greater than 99.9% to avoid requiring an excessive number of sprays. Output from the simulation was compared with the results of two aerial spraying campaigns against tsetse and a least squares analysis estimated that, in both cases, the kill efficiency of the sprays was not significantly less than 100%.
Senecio as a model system for integrating studies of genotype, phenotype and fitness
Authors: Walter Greg M. , Abbott Richard J. , Brennan Adrian C. , Bridle Jon R. , Chapman Mark , Clark James , Filatov Dmitry , Nevado Bruno , Ortiz‐Barrientos Daniel , Hiscock Simon J.
Published: January 2020

Two major developments have made it possible to use examples of ecological radiations as model systems to understand evolution and ecology. First, the integration of quantitative genetics with ecological experiments allows detailed connections to be made between genotype, phenotype, and fitness in the field. Second, dramatic advances in molecular genetics have created new possibilities for integrating field and laboratory experiments with detailed genetic sequencing. Combining these approaches allows evolutionary biologists to better study the interplay between genotype, phenotype, and fitness to explore a wide range of evolutionary processes. Here, we present the genus Senecio (Asteraceae) as an excellent system to integrate these developments, and to address fundamental questions in ecology and evolution. Senecio is one of the largest and most phenotypically diverse genera of flowering plants, containing species ranging from woody perennials to herbaceous annuals. These Senecio species exhibit many growth habits, life histories, and morphologies, and they occupy a multitude of environments. Common within the genus are species that have hybridized naturally, undergone polyploidization, and colonized diverse environments, often through rapid phenotypic divergence and adaptive radiation. These diverse experimental attributes make Senecio an attractive model system in which to address a broad range of questions in evolution and ecology.
Inhibition in selective attention
Authors: van Moorselaar Dirk , Slagter Heleen A.
Published: January 2020

Our ability to focus on goal‐relevant aspects of the environment is critically dependent on our ability to ignore or inhibit distracting information. One perspective is that distractor inhibition is under similar voluntary control as attentional facilitation of target processing. However, a rapidly growing body of research shows that distractor inhibition often relies on prior experience with the distracting information or other mechanisms that need not rely on active representation in working memory. Yet, how and when these different forms of inhibition are neurally implemented remains largely unclear. Here, we review findings from recent behavioral and neuroimaging studies to address this outstanding question. We specifically explore how experience with distracting information may change the processing of that information in the context of current predictive processing views of perception: by modulating a distractor's representation already in anticipation of the distractor, or after integration of top‐down and bottom‐up sensory signals. We also outline directions for future research necessary to enhance our understanding of how the brain filters out distracting information.
Beyond the green: assessing quarry restoration success through plant and beetle communities
Authors: Mexia Teresa , Antunes Cristina , Nunes Alice , Mira António , Correia Ana I. , Serrano Artur , Correia Otília
Published: January 2020

In assessing the effectiveness of ecological restoration actions, outcomes evaluation using a multi‐taxa approach can greatly contribute to a clearer understanding of their success/failure. Since comprehensive biodiversity assessments are rarely possible, choosing taxa groups that are indicative of the ecosystem's structural and functional recovery is of major importance. Our goal was to evaluate the success of revegetation actions performed in a Mediterranean limestone quarry, using plants and epigean beetles as indicators. We compared their abundance, diversity, and community composition between revegetated sites aged 5, 13, and 19 years and a natural reference. Total plant cover significantly increased with restoration age and quickly reached reference values. However, native woody species cover dropped in the oldest site, while non‐native species became dominant. The abundance of beetles was always lower in restoration sites when compared to the reference, increasing with age, although not significantly. The richness of both plant species and beetle families was lower in restoration sites and did not show any trend towards the reference values. Finally, using nonmetric multidimensional scaling, the composition of plant and beetle communities from restoration sites showed a clear separation from the reference. Restoration efforts have successfully modified post‐quarry sites, but considerable differences remain, probably largely related to the use of the non‐native species Pinus halepensis in restoration plans. P. halepensis high cover in restoration sites greatly affects the structure of the ecosystem, and most likely its functioning too, as well as related ecosystem services, causing divergence from the reference values and compromising restoration success.
Together With Veterans: VA National Strategy Alignment and Lessons Learned from Community‐Based Suicide Prevention for Rural Veterans
Authors: Monteith Lindsey L. , Wendleton Leah , Bahraini Nazanin H. , Matarazzo Bridget B. , Brimner Gina , Mohatt Nathaniel V.
Published: January 2020

Background

Rural veterans are at increased risk for dying by suicide compared with urban veterans, yet interventions for preventing suicide among rural veterans have been limited.

Objectives

(1) Describe how Together With Veterans (TWV), a community‐based intervention to prevent suicide among veterans in rural communities, aligns with the VA National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide; (2) share lessons learned while beginning to implement TWV in rural communities.

Methods

Together With Veterans is being implemented in four rural communities and comprises six suicide prevention best practices: (1) reducing stigma and promoting help‐seeking; (2) lethal means safety, with an emphasis on firearms; (3) gatekeeper training; (4) training primary care providers; (5) improving access to crisis services; and (6) enhancing support for high‐risk veterans.

Results

Together With Veterans best practices align with most, but not all, of the strategies in the VA National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide. Community veteran partners have shown a willingness to collaborate and provide local leadership, enthusiasm, and a sense of duty.

Conclusions

By supporting and facilitating local veteran leaders and their community partners in increasing suicide prevention knowledge, public awareness, and resources, we propose that TWV offers an acceptable and feasible approach that builds on the strengths of rural communities. Systematic evaluation is warranted.
Three‐dimensional vorticity and time‐constrained evolution of the Main Central Thrust zone, Garhwal Himalaya (NW India)
Authors: Montemagni Chiara , Carosi Rodolfo , Fusi Nicoletta , Iaccarino Salvatore , Montomoli Chiara , Villa Igor M. , Zanchetta Stefano
Published: January 2020

Vorticity estimates based on porphyroclasts analysis are limited by the extrapolation to three dimensions of two‐dimensional data. We describe a 3D approach based on the use of X‐ray micro‐computed tomography that better reflects the real 3D geometry of the porphyroclasts population. This new approach for kinematic vorticity analysis in the Munsiari Thrust mylonites, the lower boundary of the Main Central Thrust zone (MCTz) in Indian Himalaya, indicates a large pure shear component during non‐coaxial shearing. 40Ar/39Ar ages of micas along the mylonitic foliation of the Munsiari and Vaikrita thrusts (the upper boundary of the MCTz) constrain thrust activity to 5–4 and 8–9 Ma, respectively. Available kinematic vorticity analyses of the Vaikrita mylonites suggest the dominance of a simple shear component. Combining these data, we suggest that the southward and structurally downward shift of deformation along the MCTz was accompanied by a progressive increase in the pure shear component in a general shear flow.
GSK2 stabilizes OFP3 to suppress brassinosteroid responses in rice
Authors: Xiao Yunhua , Zhang Guoxia , Liu Dapu , Niu Mei , Tong Hongning , Chu Chengcai
Published: January 2020

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a class of phytohormones that modulate several important agronomic traits in rice (Oryza sativa). GSK2 is one of the critical suppressors of BR signalling and targets transcription factors such as OsBZR1 and DLT to regulate BR responses. Here, we identified OFP3 (OVATE FAMILY PROTEIN 3) as an interactor of both GSK2 and DLT by yeast‐two‐hybrid screening and demonstrated that OFP3 plays a distinctly negative role in BR responses. While knockout of OFP3 promoted rice seedling growth, overexpression of OFP3 led to strong BR insensitivity, which resulted in reduced plant height, leaf angle, and grain size. Interestingly, both BR biosynthetic and signalling genes had decreased expression in the overexpression plants. OFP3 overexpression also enhanced the phenotypes of BR‐deficient mutants, but largely suppressed those of BR‐enhanced plants. Moreover, treatment with either BR or bikinin, a GSK3‐like kinase inhibitor, induced OFP3 depletion, whereas GSK2 or brassinazole, a BR synthesis inhibitor, promoted OFP3 accumulation. Furthermore, OFP3 exhibited transcription repressor activity and was able to interact with itself as well as additional BR‐related components, including OFP1, OSH1, OSH15, OsBZR1, and GF14c. Importantly, GSK2 can phosphorylate OFP3 and enhance these interactions. We propose that OFP3, as a suppressor of both BR synthesis and signalling but stabilized by GSK2, incorporates into a transcription factor complex to facilitate BR signalling control, which is critical for the proper development of various tissues.
Metabolic profiles of six African cultivars of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) highlight bottlenecks of root yield
Authors: Obata Toshihiro , Klemens Patrick A.W. , Rosado‐Souza Laise , Schlereth Armin , Gisel Andreas , Stavolone Livia , Zierer Wolfgang , Morales Nicolas , Mueller Lukas A. , Zeeman Samuel C. , Ludewig Frank , Stitt Mark , Sonnewald Uwe , Neuhaus H. Ekkehard , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: January 2020

Cassava is an important staple crop in sub‐Saharan Africa, due to its high productivity even on nutrient poor soils. The metabolic characteristics underlying this high productivity are poorly understood including the mode of photosynthesis, reasons for the high rate of photosynthesis, the extent of source/sink limitation, the impact of environment, and the extent of variation between cultivars. Six commercial African cassava cultivars were grown in a greenhouse in Erlangen, Germany, and in the field in Ibadan, Nigeria. Source leaves, sink leaves, stems and storage roots were harvested during storage root bulking and analyzed for sugars, organic acids, amino acids, phosphorylated intermediates, minerals, starch, protein, activities of enzymes in central metabolism and yield traits. High ratios of RuBisCO:phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase activity support a C3 mode of photosynthesis. The high rate of photosynthesis is likely to be attributed to high activities of enzymes in the Calvin–Benson cycle and pathways for sucrose and starch synthesis. Nevertheless, source limitation is indicated because root yield traits correlated with metabolic traits in leaves rather than in the stem or storage roots. This situation was especially so in greenhouse‐grown plants, where irradiance will have been low. In the field, plants produced more storage roots. This was associated with higher AGPase activity and lower sucrose in the roots, indicating that feedforward loops enhanced sink capacity in the high light and low nitrogen environment in the field. Overall, these results indicated that carbon assimilation rate, the K battery, root starch synthesis, trehalose, and chlorogenic acid accumulation are potential target traits for genetic improvement.
Mitogenomic phylogeny of the Naticidae (Gastropoda: Littorinimorpha) reveals monophyly of the Polinicinae
Authors: Liu Hongyue , Yang Yi , Sun Shao'e , Kong Lingfeng , Li Qi
Published: January 2020

The Naticidae is a species‐rich family of predatory marine gastropods with substantial interspecific morphological diversity. The classification of the Naticidae has been traditionally based on morphology data, but the phylogenetic relationships within the family are debated due to conflicting molecular results, especially regarding the monophyly of subfamilies Polinicinae and Naticinae. To further resolve the phylogenetic controversies within the Naticidae, we undertake a phylogenetic approach using 14 newly sequenced complete or nearly complete (only lacking a control region) mitochondrial genomes. Both the maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses supported monophyly of the Polinicinae, but paraphyly of the Naticinae due to the placement of the enigmatic genusNotocochlis. The ancestral character reconstruction suggests that the operculum, a character that currently defines the two subfamilies, evolved from an ancestor with a calcareous operculum in the evolutionary history of naticids. In addition, the chronogram estimates that naticids was originated in late Triassic (about 227 million years ago), consistent with previous hypotheses. Our study highlights the importance of using complete mitochondrial genomes while reconstructing phylogenetic relationships within the Naticidae. The evolution scenario of the naticid operculum contributes new insights into the classification of Naticidae.
δ subunit‐containing GABAA IPSCs are driven by both synaptic and diffusional GABA in mouse dentate granule neurons
Authors: Sun Min‐Yu , Ziolkowski Luke , Mennerick Steven
Published: January 2020

Key points

Current views suggest γ2 subunit‐containing GABAA receptors mediate phasic IPSCs while extrasynaptic δ subunits mediate diffusional IPSCs and tonic current.

We have re‐examined the roles of the two receptor populations using mice with picrotoxin resistance engineered into receptors containing the δ subunit.

Using pharmacological separation, we find that in general δ and γ IPSCs are modulated in parallel by manipulations of transmitter output and diffusion, with evidence favouring modestly more diffusional contribution to δ IPSCs.

Our findings also reveal that spontaneous δ IPSCs are mainly driven by channel deactivation, rather than by diffusion of GABA.

Understanding the functional contributions of the two receptor classes may help us understand the actions of drug therapies with selective effects on one population over the other.

GABAA receptors mediate transmission throughout the central nervous system and typically contain a δ subunit (δ receptors) or a γ2 subunit (γ2 receptors). δ IPSCs decay slower than γ2 IPSCs, but the reasons are unclear. Transmitter diffusion, rebinding, or slow deactivation kinetics of channels are candidates. We used gene editing to confer picrotoxin resistance on δ receptors in mice, then pharmacologically isolated δ receptors in mouse dentate granule cells to explore IPSCs. γ2 and δ components of IPSCs were modulated similarly by presynaptic manipulations and manipulations of transmitter lifetime, suggesting that GABA release recruits δ receptors proportionally to γ2 receptors. δ IPSCs showed more sensitivity to altered transmitter release and to a rapidly dissociating antagonist, suggesting an additional spillover contribution. Reducing GABA diffusion with 5% dextran increased the peak amplitude and decreased the decay of evoked δ IPSCs but had no effect on δ or dual‐component (mainly γ2‐driven) spontaneous IPSCs, suggesting that GABA actions can be local for both receptor types. Rapid application of varied [GABA] onto nucleated patches from dentate granule cells demonstrated a deactivation rate of δ receptors similar to that of δ spontaneous IPSCs, consistent with the idea that deactivation and local GABA actions drive δ spontaneous IPSCs. Overall, our results indicate that δ IPSCs are activated by both synaptic and diffusional GABA. Our results are consistent with a functional relationship between δ and γ2 GABAA receptors akin to that of slow NMDA and fast AMPA EPSCs at glutamate synapses.
Investigation on Tomographic-Based Nondestructive Characterization of Short Glass Fiber-Reinforced Composites as Obtained From Micro Injection Molding
Authors: Rathore Jitendra Singh , Konopczyński Tomasz , Hesser Jürgen , Lucchetta Giovanni , Carmignato Simone
Published: January 2020

Quantitative assessment of fiber characteristics in composite parts is of great significance in order to correlate them with the fiber-induced mechanical properties. X-ray computed tomography (CT) is being successfully used as a three-dimensional nondestructive measuring technique for the analysis of fiber characteristics (mainly the fiber orientation and fiber volume content) in fiber-reinforced composite materials. However, the accuracy of such analyses depends on various factors (e.g., scanning parameters, resolution), which is the motivation for this study. The current work investigates the effect of CT scanning parameters and spatial resolution on the obtained fiber orientation and fiber volume content. First a simulation study is carried out using a computationally generated fiber composite model followed by a validation using a thin-wall injection-molded part. The findings showed that the effect of CT settings is not significant on the measurements, but the resolution affects the estimated fiber volume content adversely. A preliminary error calculation method is proposed for correcting the overestimation in the fiber volume content.
Measuring the Performance Impact of Using the Microsoft HoloLens 1 to Provide Guided Assembly Work Instructions
Authors: Hoover Melynda , Miller Jack , Gilbert Stephen , Winer Eliot
Published: January 2020

The human performance benefits of four types of guided assembly instructions, including the Microsoft HoloLens 1, were analyzed in the context of a realistic assembly task. Several studies have confirmed the benefits of using augmented reality (AR) work instructions over traditional digital or paper instructions, but few have compared the effects of different AR hardware, including head-mounted displays, for complex assembly tasks. Participants completed a mock wing assembly task using the Microsoft HoloLens 1, and completion time, error count, and net promoter score (NPS) were recorded. These data were compared to data from previous research which employed desktop model-based instructions (MBIs), tablet MBI, and tablet AR instructions for the same task. The use of HoloLens AR instructions led to time saving of 16% over the tablet AR instructions. HoloLens users also had lower error rates than non-AR users. Despite the performance benefits of the HoloLens AR instructions, this condition had a lower NPS than the tablet AR group. The qualitative data showed that some users thought the HoloLens device was uncomfortable and that the tracking was not always exact. Although the users favored the tablet AR condition, the HoloLens condition had significantly faster assembly times. The authors recommend using the HoloLens for complex guided assembly instructions with minor changes, such as allowing the user to toggle the AR instructions on and off at will. The results of this paper can help manufacturing stakeholders understand the benefits of different AR technologies for manual assembly tasks.
Elevated-Temperature Wear Study of HVOF spray Cr3C2–NiCr-Coated Die Steels
Authors: Chhabra Pankaj , Kaur Manpreet
Published: January 2020

Wear and surface damage of tools (die materials) in the hot metal forming industry is a critical problem observed and is producing an adverse effect on the process economy. The problem occurs when tool and workpiece interact at higher temperatures. However, the research related to the wear and friction of dies is still lacking. In the present investigation, tribological (wear and friction) studies were conducted with an aim to explore the potential of Cr3C2–NiCr surface coating. The high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) spray technique was used to formulate the coatings. The microhardness, surface roughness, bond strength, and porosity of the coated specimens were found and analyzed. Subsequently, elevated-temperature wear and friction study of the uncoated and coated specimens were done in the laboratory. The study was conducted at 25 N and 50 N loads. The coated specimens showed an increase in wear resistance at all test parameters. The lowest value of coefficient of friction (COF) and the specific wear-rate for the coated specimens were observed at 400 °C. Wear mechanisms were studied by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique. The wear mechanisms were observed to be adhesive in nature at room temperatures and the combination of abrasive/oxidative/adhesive in nature at higher temperatures for the Cr3C2–NiCr-coated specimens.