bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-dependent protein-lipid interactions of a pentameric ligand-gated ion channel in a neuronal membrane
Authors: Dämgen Marc A. , Biggin Philip C.
Published: April 2020

Pentameric ligand-gated ion channels (pLGICs) are receptor proteins that are sensitive to their membrane environment, but the mechanism for how lipids modulate function under physiological conditions in a state dependent manner is not known. The glycine receptor is a pLGIC whose structure has been resolved in different functional states. Using a realistic model of a neuronal membrane coupled with coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we demonstrate that the lipid-protein interactions are dependent on the receptor state, suggesting that lipids may regulate the receptor’s conformational dynamics. Comparison with existing structural data confirms known lipid binding sites, but we also predict further protein-lipid interactions including a site at the communication interface between the extracellular and transmembrane domain. Moreover, in the active state, cholesterol can bind to the binding site of the positive allosteric modulator ivermectin. These protein-lipid interaction sites could in future be exploited for the rational design of lipid-like allosteric drugs.

Author Summary

Ion channels are proteins that control the flow of ions into the cell. The family of ion channels known as the pentameric ligand gated ion channels (pLGICS) open in response to the binding of a neurotransmitter, moving the channel from a resting state to an open state. The glycine receptor is a pLGIC whose structure has been resolved in different functional states. It is also known that the response of pLGICs can also be modified by different types of lipid found within the membrane itself but exactly how is unclear. Here, we used a realistic model of a neuronal membrane and performed molecular dynamics simulations to show various lipid-protein interactions that are dependent on the channel state. Our work also reveals previously unconsidered protein-lipid interactions at a key junction of the channel known to be critical for the transmission of the opening process. We also demonstrate that cholesterol interacts with the protein at a site already known to bind to another compound that modulates the channel, called ivermectin. The work should be useful for future drug design.
Pathogenic LRRK2 regulates ciliation probability upstream of Tau Tubulin kinase 2
Authors: Sobu Yuriko , Wawro Paulina S. , Dhekne Herschel S. , Pfeffer Suzanne R.
Published: April 2020

Mutations that activate LRRK2 protein kinase cause Parkinson’s disease. We have shown previously that Rab10 phosphorylation by LRRK2 enhances its binding to RILPL1 and together, these proteins block cilia formation in a variety of cell types including patient derived iPS cells. We have used live cell fluorescence microscopy to identify, more precisely, the effect of LRRK2 kinase activity on both the formation of cilia triggered by serum starvation and loss of cilia seen upon serum re-addition. LRRK2 activity decreases the overall probability of ciliation without changing the rates of cilia formation in R1441C LRRK2 MEF cells. Cilia loss in these cells is accompanied by ciliary decapitation. Kinase activity does not change the timing or frequency of decapitation or the rate of cilia loss, but increases the percent of cilia that are lost upon serum addition. LRRK2 activity, or overexpression of RILPL1 protein, blocks release of CP110 from the mother centriole, a step normally required for early ciliogenesis. In both cases, failure of CP110 uncapping was due to failure to recruit TTBK2, a kinase needed for CP110 release. In contrast, recruitment of EHD1, another step important for ciliogenesis, appears unaltered. These experiments provide critical detail to our understanding of the cellular consequences of pathogenic LRRK2 mutation, and indicate that LRRK2 blocks ciliogenesis upstream of TTBK2 and enhances the deciliation process in response to serum addition.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Mutations that activate LRRK2 protein kinase cause Parkinson’s disease. LRRK2 phosphorylates a subset of Rab GTPases, in particular Rab8 and Rab10. Phosphorylated Rabs bind preferentially to a distinct set of effectors and block in primary ciliation in multiple cell types. We show here that the cilia blockade is upstream of the recruitment of TTBK2 kinase to the mother centriole, a step required for the release of CP110 and subsequent cilia formation. This study provides fundamental information related to how pathogenic LRRK2 interferes with normal cell physiology.
Phenotypic plasticity in chemical defence allows butterflies to diversify host use strategies
Authors: de Castro Érika C. P. , Musgrove Jamie , Bak Søren , McMillan W. Owen , Jiggins Chris D.
Published: April 2020

Hostplant specialization is a major force driving ecological niche partitioning and diversification in insect herbivores. The cyanogenic defences ofPassifloraplants keeps most herbivores at bay, but not larvae ofHeliconius butterflies, which can both sequester and biosynthesize cyanogenic compounds. Here, we demonstrate that bothHeliconius cydno chioneus, a host plant generalist, andH. melpomene rosina, a specialist,have remarkable plasticity in their chemical defence. When feeding onPassifloraspecies with cyanogenic compounds they can readily sequester, both species downregulate the biosynthesis of these compounds. In contrast, when fed onPassifloraplants that do not contain cyanogenic glucosides that can be sequestered, both species increase biosynthesis. This biochemical plasticity comes at a significant fitness cost for specialist likeH. m. rosina, as growth rates for this species negatively correlate with biosynthesis levels, but not for a generalist likeH. c. chioneus. In exchange,H. m rosinahas increased performance when sequestration is possible as on its specialised hostplant. In summary, phenotypic plasticity in biochemical responses to different host plants offers these butterflies the ability to widen their range of potential host within thePassifloragenus, while maintaining their chemical defences.
Servitization and performance: impacts on small and medium enterprises
Authors: Queiroz Stefania A.B. , Mendes Glauco H.S. , Silva Jorge H.O. , Ganga Gilberto M.D. , Cauchick Miguel Paulo A. , Oliveira Maicon G.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of the servitization on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses data from Brazilian SMEs and applies partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The findings suggest a positive relationship between servitization and SME performance. It is found that the strategy of offering base services does impact SME performance. Furthermore, servitization aims to promote a fit between environmental pressures and SME performance.

Practical implications

SMEs can use servitization to increase their performance in spite of their resources restrictions, size limitation and low level of service revenue. However, the adoption of servitization should be accompanied by managerial adjustments in servitization practices.

Originality/value

This paper is dedicated to investigating the servitization-performance relationship in the context of SMEs, which is not a usual research publication. Moreover, it adds to the servitization theory by demonstrating that it is not necessary to reach a critical mass of services to be profitable and base services may be also a source of revenues and profits.
A dynamic capabilities approach for the survival of Pakistani family-owned business in the digital world
Authors: Rashid Sumayya , Ratten Vanessa
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the role of dynamic capabilities for the survival of family-owned business (FOB) in Pakistan. The paper aims at examining the impact of digitization on business landscape for FOBs.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for this research were collected using in-depth interviews. About 24 interviews were conducted with the owners of 24 FOBs in four different states of Pakistan. Interviews were translated and transcribed. By using GIOIA methodology, first-order concepts, themes and aggregate dimension were identified that explained the additional dynamic capabilities needed for family businesses in digital era.

Findings

The results of the data analysis revealed that family businesses are struggling to cope with thriving digital market. Digital mind-set is needed to survive in the market. The ability to respond to change is needed. The intelligence and wisdom needed for creating and maintaining an intellectual asset should be used by investing in new technologies. Importantly, businesses need to maintain an emotionally and artificially intelligent brand.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on four different states of Pakistan. By focussing on each state could generate more data. The research is focussed on Pakistan to know about the dynamics of emerging economies. Replicating same research on other developing countries can bring more results. Lastly, it is a purely qualitative research. A quantitative analysis could bring a new context to the problem.

Practical implications

Understanding the challenges of family businesses for coping in digital market helps other family businesses to get a know-how before entering the market. Digital presence can help in building the brand but when not handled correctly can damage the brand as well. Investing in additional capabilities can provide a competitive advantage to family businesses. Family businesses possess a passion for the idea which helps to build the narrative for the brand.

Originality/value

This research is contributing to highlight the scenario of an emerging economy by studying the challenges of FOB in digitization. The literature provides more information and theories regarding developed countries. This research is a picture of developing economy and how wave of digital era has transformed the business landscape. In-depth interviews were conducted for deep insights which helps in contributing towards family business research.
Factors determining behavioral intentions to use Islamic financial technology
Authors: Darmansyah Darmansyah , Fianto Bayu Arie , Hendratmi Achsania , Aziz Primandanu Febriyan
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influential factors on behavioral intentions toward Islamic financial technology (FinTech) use in Indonesia, for all types of FinTech services as follows: payments, peer to peer lending and crowdfunding.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted structural equation modeling using the partial least squares approach to test the hypotheses. Based on purposive sampling, the questionnaire was distributed through an online survey and received 1,262 responses.

Findings

The results demonstrate that the latent variables, planned behavior, acceptance model and use of technology, have a significant impact on encouraging behavioral intentions to use Islamic FinTech. The “acceptance model” latent variable is the most influential factor.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted only in Indonesia; therefore, the results cannot be generalized to other countries. However, the study provides important strategic guidelines for policymakers in designing a framework to enhance the development of Islamic FinTech and to achieve financial inclusion. It is suggested that future studies include samples from FinTech users in different countries.

Originality/value

This study adds to the literature especially on the factors affecting behavioral intentions to use Islamic FinTech. There are limited studies concerning this topic, especially for Indonesia. The unique feature of this study is the use of a large primary data set that covers most provinces in Indonesia. Furthermore, this study focuses on three types of Islamic FinTech, namely, payments, peer to peer lending and crowdfunding.
Successful approaches for implementing additive manufacturing
Authors: Martens Robert , Fan Susan K. , Dwyer Rocky J.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this qualitative, multiple-case study was to explore the successful strategies that managers of light and high-tech small and medium-sized manufacturing companies in the Netherlands, use to adopt additive manufacturing (AM) technology into their business models.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, multiple-case study approach was used. The participants for this study consisted of executive-level managers of light and high-tech manufacturing companies in the Netherlands. Company documents were studied, and individual interviews were undertaken with participants to gain an understanding of the strategies they used to adopt AM technology into their business models.

Findings

Three significant themes emerged from the data analysis: identify business opportunities for AM technology, experiment with AM technology and embed AM technology.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study could be of advantage to industry leaders and manufacturing managers who are contemplating to adopt AM in their business models.

Originality/value

This study may contribute to the further proliferation of AM technology. Industry leaders may also gain a clearer understanding of the effects of 3DP on local employment. The results of the study may also work as a catalyst for increased awareness for manufacturing firm leaders who have not yet considered the opportunities and threats AM technology presents to their organizations.
Interspecific trait integration increases with environmental harshness: A case study along a metal toxicity gradient
Authors: Delhaye Guillaume , Bauman David , Séleck Maxime , Ilunga wa Ilunga Edouard , Mahy Grégory , Meerts Pierre
Published: April 2020

Functional traits are commonly used to calculate a wide array of functional diversity indices to infer different mechanisms of community assembly and species coexistence. Recently, the degree of interspecific covariation between multiple functional traits has been suggested as a mechanism influencing both species distributions and abundances in communities. However, empirical assessments of this theory along environmental gradients are still scarce due to the lack of an appropriate method and of sufficiently strong environmental gradients.

Here we compare interspecific trait integration (ITI) across plant communities along a marked gradient of copper toxicity in the soil, using new multivariate and bivariate indices. This was achieved using the range of the eigenvalues of a principal component analysis on the traits of the species in a local community (multivariate ITI index) and the correlations between traits in local communities (bivariate ITI index).

We show that the plant metal tolerance strategy (i.e. leaf metal content) is relatively independent from leaf economics, while negatively correlated to plant size. In addition, our results indicate a weak support for the expected general patterns of trait syndromes, such as the ‘leaf economics spectrum’ or the ‘leaf–height–seed’, at the whole‐community scale. This arises from an increase in multivariate trait integration along the soil copper gradient. The strongest trait integration is caused by an increase in the degree of association between certain traits on metal‐rich soils. The multivariate trait integration explains species richness better than other commonly used functional diversity indices.

Our study highlights the power of ITI, as well as its complementarity to other functional diversity indices, to investigate the variation in functional strategies and their drivers along environmental gradients. The increase in trait integration with soil metal toxicity in plant communities supports that highly constraining environments select increasingly coordinated sets of functional traits, in turn possibly driving the decrease in species richness. Further studies should assess the generality and underlying physiological mechanisms of such ecological patterns.
Determinants of prescription opioid use: population‐based evidence from Finland
Authors: Böckerman Petri , Haapanen Mika , Hakulinen Christian , Karhunen Hannu , Maczulskij Terhi
Published: April 2020

Background and aims

Previous studies have shown that prescription opioid use is more common in socio‐economically disadvantaged communities in the United States. This study examined the area and individual‐level determinants of prescription opioid use in Finland during the period 1995–2016.

Design

Logistic regression analysis using nation‐wide data on filled opioid‐related prescriptions dispensed at Finnish pharmacies and covered by National Health Insurance. Opioid consumption was linked, using personal identification codes, to population‐based data maintained by Statistics Finland, which records individual background and area‐level characteristics.

Setting and participants

Working‐age population aged between 15 and 64 years in Finland during the periods 1995–2007 (n = 4 315 409) and 2009–16 (n = 4 116 992).

Measurements

Annual prescription opioid use was measured using defined daily doses (DDD) and whether people used opioids during a year.

Findings

Prescription opioid use increased in Finland from 1995 to 2016 (from less than 1 to 7%), but the increase was explained by the change in the treatment of codeine‐based opioids in National Health Insurance. The area‐level unemployment rate was positively correlated with the share of opioid users at the municipal level (r = 0.36; P < 0.001). In comparison with being employed, being outside the labour force was associated with increased opioid use in 1995–2007 [odds ratio (OR) = 2.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.10–2.36] and non‐codeine opioid use in 2009–16 (OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 2.06–2.27), but not with codeine opioid use in 2009–16.

Conclusions

Prescription opioid use in Finland appears to be more common among low socio‐economic status people, similar to the United States and the United Kingdom.
Laparoscopic‐assisted colectomy with Duhamel procedure for idiopathic megacolon in adults: a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Li , Zheng Huichao , Tian Yue , Mou Jianghong , Zhang Lianyang , Liu Baohua , Tong WeiDong
Published: April 2020

Background

Idiopathic megacolon (IMC) is an uncommon disease in adults. To date, only a few laparoscopic experiences and functional outcomes of IMC have been reported. This study was to retrospectively analyse our 12 year surgical experience and functional outcomes in adult patients with IMC.

Methods

A 12‐year retrospective study from October 2006 to November 2018 was performed for patients with IMC who underwent surgical interventions. Patients who underwent laparoscopic‐assisted colectomy and Duhamel procedure with ileorectal or colorectal anastomosis were collected. Clinical data of surgery and functional outcomes were analysed.

Results

A total of 13 patients who underwent surgical interventions were included in the study. Seven patients underwent laparoscopic total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (Duhamel procedure), one patient underwent laparoscopic total colectomy with end ileostomy because of acute intestinal obstruction, while five other patients underwent laparoscopic segmental colectomy with colorectal anastomosis (Duhamel procedure). The mean operative time was 181.6 min (range 150–246). The mean estimated blood loss was 75.6 ml (range 40–200). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 8.2 days (range 6–13). There was no conversion to an open procedure and no surgical mortality. Postoperative diarrhoea was the most prominent complaint during the early period after total colectomy. All patients showed adaptation to the defaecation frequency 3–6 months postoperatively, and had a good quality of life in long‐term follow‐up.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic‐assisted colectomy with Duhamel procedure is a safe and efficient technique for IMC in adults. The scope of colon resection and the type of anastomosis should be individually selected.
A national survey showed low levels of physical activity in a representative sample of Swedish adolescents
Authors: Nyberg Gisela , Kjellenberg Karin , Fröberg Andreas , Lindroos Anna Karin
Published: April 2020

Aim

This study investigated objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time by sex, age and socioeconomic status in a large representative sample of Swedish adolescents.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional national survey between 2016 and 2017, students aged 11‐12, 14‐15 and 17‐18 years from 131 schools were invited to participate. Physical activity and sedentary time were measured objectively with accelerometers for seven consecutive days. Socioeconomic status (parental education) and country of birth were self‐reported in a questionnaire. Weight and height were measured by trained staff.

Results

A total of 3477 adolescents participated in the study, and 2419 (73%) had at least 3 days of valid accelerometer data. The results showed that 43% of boys and 23% of girls reached the recommendation of 60 minutes of daily moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity. Boys were more physically active than girls in all age groups. Girls with high socioeconomic status were more physically active than girls with low socioeconomic status (P < .001), and this difference was not found in boys.

Conclusion

The majority of Swedish adolescents did not reach the physical activity recommendation, and boys were more active than girls. Effective strategies to increase physical activity, especially among girls with low socioeconomic status, are urgently needed.
A dated phylogeny of Lardizabalaceae reveals an unusual long‐distance dispersal across the Pacific Ocean and the rapid rise of East Asian subtropical evergreen broadleaved forests in the late Miocene
Authors: Wang Wei , Xiang Xiao‐Guo , Xiang Kun‐Li , Ortiz Rosa del C. , Jabbour Florian , Chen Zhi‐Duan
Published: April 2020

Temperate South American–Asian disjunct distributions are the most unusual in organisms, and challenging to explain. Here, we address the origin of this unusual disjunction in Lardizabalaceae using explicit models and molecular data. The family (c.40 species distributed in ten genera) also provides an opportunity to explore the historical assembly of East Asian subtropical evergreen broadleaved forests, a typical and luxuriant vegetation in East Asia. DNA sequences of five plastid loci of 42 accessions representing 23 species of Lardizabalaceae (c. 57.5% of estimated species diversity), and 19 species from the six other families of Ranunculales, were used to perform phylogenetic analyses. By dating the branching events and reconstructing ancestral ranges, we infer that extant Lardizabalaceae dated to the Upper Cretaceous of East Asia and that the temperate South American lineage might have split from its East Asian sister group at c. 24.4 Ma. A trans‐Pacific dispersal possibly by birds from East Asia to South America is plausible to explain the establishment of the temperate South American–East Asian disjunction in Lardizabalaceae. Diversification rate analyses indicate that net diversification rates of Lardizabalaceae experienced a significant increase around c. 7.5 Ma. Our findings suggest that the rapid rise of East Asian subtropical evergreen broadleaved forests occurred in the late Miocene, associated with the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau and the intensified East Asian monsoon, as well as the higher winter temperature and atmospheric CO2 levels.
Efficacy, safety and cardiovascular outcomes of once‐daily oral semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes: The PIONEER programme
Authors: Thethi Tina K. , Pratley Richard , Meier Juris J.
Published: April 2020

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) are recommended for glycaemic management in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Oral semaglutide, the first oral GLP‐1RA, has recently been approved for clinical use, based on the results of the randomized, Phase 3a Peptide InnOvatioN for Early diabEtes tReatment (PIONEER) clinical trials. The PIONEER programme tested oral semaglutide in patients with T2D of duration ranging from 3.5 to 15 years, from monotherapy through to insulin add‐on, in global populations and two trials dedicated to Japanese patients. Outcomes (glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c] and body weight reduction, plus other relevant efficacy and safety endpoints) were tested against both placebo and active standard‐of‐care medications. A separate trial evaluated the cardiovascular safety of oral semaglutide in patients with T2D at high cardiovascular risk. Over periods of treatment up to 78 weeks, oral semaglutide 7 and 14 mg once daily reduced HbA1c and body weight across the spectrum of T2D, and improved other diabetes‐related endpoints, such as fasting plasma glucose. Oral semaglutide provided significantly better efficacy than placebo and commonly used glucose‐lowering medications from the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (sitagliptin) and sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor (empagliflozin) classes, as well as the subcutaneous GLP‐1RAs liraglutide and dulaglutide. Oral semaglutide was well tolerated in line with the known safety profile of GLP‐1RAs, with transient gastrointestinal events being the most common side effects reported. Cardiovascular safety was demonstrated for oral semaglutide in patients with cardiovascular disease or high cardiovascular risk. The results of the PIONEER programme suggest that oral semaglutide is efficacious and well tolerated for glycaemic control of T2D. The availability of oral semaglutide may help to broaden treatment choice and facilitate adoption of earlier GLP‐1RA treatment in the paradigm of T2D management.
Do Responsible Fatherhood Programs Work? A Comprehensive Meta‐Analytic Study
Authors: Holmes Erin Kramer , Egginton Braquel R. , Hawkins Alan J. , Robbins Nathan L. , Shafer Kevin
Published: April 2020

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of fatherhood programs targeting unmarried, low‐income, nonresident fathers.

Background

Programs for unmarried, nonresident, and low‐income fathers increased in number and scope over the past decade. Programs for fathers have typically targeted five broad areas: positive father involvement, parenting, co‐parenting, employment, and child support payment.

Method

We conducted a systematic search for published and unpublished evaluations of fathering programs targeting unmarried, never married, and low‐income fathers. We identified 25 reports with 30 independent studies. Of these, 21 employed a control–treatment design, and nine employed a one‐group/pre–post design.

Results

These programs produce small but statistically significant effects (d = .099, p < .01). We found that only father involvement (d = .114, p < .05), parenting (d = .110, p < .01), and co‐parenting (d = .167, p < .05) were significantly affected; the strongest effect size was in co‐parenting. Unfortunately, these programs did not significantly influence father employment and economic well‐being, nor did they significantly impact father payment of child support.

Conclusion

Although programs for low‐income, unmarried, nonresident fathers have a small statistically significant effect, evaluation work may increase the impact of these programs.

Implications.

There is a continued need for evaluation focused on unmarried, nonresident, low‐income fathers. There is also need for improved statistical reporting, reports of attrition, assessment of child outcomes, observational measures of outcomes, and better assessment of moderators, such as father age, program location, child developmental stage, multipartner fertility, and other barriers to father involvement.
Depth‐dependent soil organic carbon dynamics of croplands across the Chengdu Plain of China from the 1980s to the 2010s
Authors: Li Qiquan , Li Aiwen , Dai Tianfei , Fan Zemeng , Luo Youlin , Li Shan , Yuan Dagang , Zhao Bin , Tao Qi , Wang Changquan , Li Bing , Gao Xuesong , Li Yiding , Li Huanxiu , Wilson John P.
Published: April 2020

Agricultural soils have tremendous potential to sequester soil organic carbon (SOC) and mitigate global climate change. However, agricultural land use has a profound impact on SOC dynamics, and few studies have explored how agricultural land use combined with soil conditions affect SOC changes throughout the soil profile. Based on a paired soil resampling campaign in the 1980s and 2010s, this study investigated the SOC changes of the soil profile caused by agricultural land use and the correlations with parent material and topography across the Chengdu Plain of China. The results showed that the SOC content increased by 3.78 g C/kg in the topsoil (0–20 cm), but decreased in the 20–40 cm and 40–60 cm soil layers by 0.90 and 1.26 g C/kg respectively. SOC increases in topsoil were observed for all types of agricultural land. Afforestation on former agricultural land also caused SOC decreases in the 20–60 cm soil layers, while SOC decreases only occurred in the 40–60 cm soil layer for agricultural land using a traditional crop rotation (i.e. traditional rice–wheat/rapeseed rotation) and with rice–vegetable rotations converted from the traditional rotations. For each agricultural land use, SOC decreases in deep soils only occurred in high relief areas and in soils formed from Q4 (Quaternary Holocene) grey‐brown alluvium and Q4 grey alluvium that had a relatively low soil bulk density and clay content. The results indicated that SOC change caused by agricultural land use was depth dependent and that the effects of agricultural land use on soil profile SOC dynamics varied with soil characteristics and topography. Subsoil SOC decreases were more likely to occur in high relief areas and in soils with low soil bulk density and low clay content.
Global‐scale characterization of turning points in arid and semi‐arid ecosystem functioning
Authors: Bernardino Paulo N. , De Keersmaecker Wanda , Fensholt Rasmus , Verbesselt Jan , Somers Ben , Horion Stéphanie
Published: April 2020

Aim

Changes in dryland ecosystem functioning are threatening the well‐being of human populations worldwide, and land degradation, exacerbated by climate change, contributes to biodiversity loss and puts pressures on sustainable livelihoods. Here, abrupt changes in ecosystem functioning [so‐called turning points (TPs)] were detected using time series of Earth observation data. Hotspot areas of high TP occurrence were identified, observed changes characterized and insights gained on potential drivers for these changes.

Location

Arid and semi‐arid regions.

Time period

1982–2015.

Methods

We used a time series segmentation technique (breaks for additive season and trend) to detect breakpoints in rain‐use efficiency as a means of analysing changes in ecosystem functioning. A new typology to characterize the detected changes was proposed and evaluated, at regional to local scales, for a set of case studies. Ancillary data on population and drought were used to provide insights on potential drivers of TP occurrence.

Results

Turning points in ecosystem functioning were found in 13.6% (c. 2.1 × 106 km2) of global drylands. Turning point hotspots were primarily observed in North America, the Sahel, Central Asia and Australia. In North America, the majority of TPs (62.6%) were characterized by a decreasing trend in ecosystem functioning, whereas for the other regions, a positive reversal in ecosystem functioning was prevalent. Further analysis showed that: (a) both climatic and anthropogenic pressure influenced the occurrence of TPs in North America; (b) Sahelian grasslands were primarily characterized by drought‐induced TPs; and (c) high anthropogenic pressure coincided with the occurrence of TPs in Asia and Australia.

Main conclusions

By developing a new typology targeting the categorization of abrupt and gradual changes in ecosystem functioning, we detected and characterized TPs in global drylands. This TP characterization is a first crucial step towards understanding the drivers of change and supporting better decision‐making for ecosystem conservation and management in drylands.
Decrease in β‐diversity, but not in α‐diversity, of ants in intensively managed coffee plantations
Authors: Escobar‐Ramírez Selene , Tscharntke Teja , Armbrecht Inge , Torres Wilmar , Grass Ingo
Published: April 2020

Local land‐use intensity and surrounding landscape complexity affect the diversity of local species. Ants are an important biocontrol agent of the coffee berry borer (CBB), the main coffee pest worldwide. Although intensification of coffee production and deforestation in the surrounding landscape may reduce ant diversity, α‐ and β‐diversity patterns of ants in coffee landscapes remain poorly understood.

Ants foraging in coffee bushes were sampled, using tuna baits along an agricultural intensification gradient (forest, shaded coffee and sun coffee) in a Neotropical coffee landscape. We evaluated the differences in α and β components of ant richness, community differentiation and habitat specificity of ant communities, in response to land‐use type and the percentage of surrounding forest.

We found that ant β‐diversity and community differentiation among plots were significantly reduced with coffee management intensity. The amount of forest border adjacent to coffee plantations did not affect α‐ or β‐diversity. Yet, ant habitat specificity in the forest increased with plots having greater amounts of forest border, although in sun coffee plantations, the opposite was found: plots with greater forest border decreased habitat specificity.

We found that conserving forest at landscape scales enhanced β‐diversity, community differentiation and habitat specificity of ants in the forest. Loss of forest cover at landscape scales (i.e. predominance of sun coffee) may lead to biotic homogenisation of ant communities. In conclusion, landscape‐wide ant richness is important in terms of biological CBB control by conservation.
A COMMENT ON “ESTIMATING DYNAMIC DISCRETE CHOICE MODELS WITH HYPERBOLIC DISCOUNTING” BY HANMING FANG AND YANG WANG
Authors: Abbring Jaap H. , Daljord Øystein
Published: April 2020

Fang and Wang's (2015) Proposition 2 claims generic identification of a dynamic discrete choice model with hyperbolic discounting under exclusion restrictions. We note that Proposition 2 uses a definition of “generic” that does not preclude that a generically identified model is nowhere identified. We provide two examples of models that are generically identified under this definition, but that are, respectively, everywhere and nowhere identified. We then show that the proof of Proposition 2 is incorrect and incomplete. We conclude that Proposition 2 has no implications for identification of the dynamic discrete choice model and suggest alternative approaches to its identification.
Digital transformation of business ecosystems: Evidence from the Korean pop industry
Authors: Tan Felix T. C. , Ondrus Jan , Tan Barney , Oh Jungsuk
Published: April 2020

The notion of business ecosystems is gaining prominence among academics and practitioners. Scholars advise that business ecosystems are inherently fluid, unbounded and amorphous and thus that their boundaries can shift. Practitioners further suggest that business ecosystems are characterised by inter‐network – as opposed to inter‐firm – competition, and, moreover, that they are mainly driven by technological advancements. And yet few studies examine the role of information technology (IT) in driving boundary practices that enable the formation and transformation of business ecosystems. Through an in‐depth case study of technology‐enabled transformations within the Korean pop music (K‐pop) industry, our study examines how the digital transformation of business ecosystems unfolded. Our study contributes to the emergent body of knowledge on business ecosystems in a number of ways. Our investigations uncover the conditions under which the constituent firms operate and analyse the role of IT and its implications on new organisational forms. From our analysis, we present a framework that reveals insights on critical boundary practices and formative strategies for digital business ecosystems. We illustrate how these boundary practices drive industry change, from a largely linear content delivery system resembling a value chain to a new value network of co‐specialisation and self‐organisation among firms in a new digital business ecosystem.
Efficacy of repeat forward‐view examination of the right‐sided colon during colonoscopy: A prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Su Young , Lee Sang Jin , Chung Jun‐Won , Kwon Kwang An , Kim Kyoung Oh , Kim Yoon Jae , Kim Jung Ho , Park Dong Kyun
Published: April 2020

Background and Aim

Generally, colonoscopy is less effective for detecting colorectal adenomas in the right‐sided colon compared with the distal colon. Repeat forward‐view (RF) examination of the right‐sided colon has been suggested to increase the adenoma detection rate (ADR). However, studies investigating the efficacy of RF examination are lacking. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine whether RF examination in the right‐sided colon enhances right‐sided ADR.

Methods

We performed a prospective, randomized controlled trial, including asymptomatic subjects who underwent screening colonoscopy. Subjects were randomized to the RF group, in which the right‐sided colon was examined twice in the forward view, or to the standard forward‐view (SF) group, in which the right‐sided colon was examined once in the forward view. The primary outcome was the right‐sided ADR on RF examination of the right‐sided colon.

Results

A total of 640 subjects completed the study protocol (RF group, n = 320; SF group, n = 320). The right‐sided ADR in the RF group was significantly higher than that in the SF group (17.5% vs 11.9%, respectively; P = 0.044). In the RF group, an additional 31 adenomas were found, resulting in an increased detection rate of adenomas of 38.3% compared with the first forward view. The ADR of the whole colon was similar between the groups.

Conclusions

In our prospective randomized controlled trial, RF examination of the right‐sided colon, which can be easily performed in clinical practice, was associated with an increased rate of detection of right‐sided ADR.
Examining the Influence of Workplace Incivility on Nurses’ Patient Safety Competence
Authors: Alquwez Nahed
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study assessed clinical nurses’ workplace incivility experiences and determined the effects of workplace incivility experiences on nurses’ patient safety competence.

Design

This quantitative study surveyed 261 clinical nurses in two acute healthcare facilities in Saudi Arabia from June to August 2019.

Methods

A self‐administered survey, including the Nurse Incivility Scale and the Health Professional Education in Patient Safety Survey, was employed to assess the variables workplace incivility and patient safety competence. The association between incivility and patient safety competence was analysed using multivariate multiple regression.

Results

The highest mean score was recorded for patient or visitor incivility, whereas the lowest score was recorded for supervisor incivility. Regarding patient safety competence, the dimension “communicating effectively” received the highest mean score, whereas “working in teams with other health professionals” was rated lowest. General and nurse incivilities had multivariate effects on the six dimensions of patient safety competence.

Conclusions

Nurses’ experiences of uncivil acts from nurses and from general incivility negatively impact nurses’ patient safety competence.

Clinical Relevance

This investigation could guide the establishment of policies centered on boosting the patient safety competence of nurses by addressing uncivil acts in healthcare settings.
A nurse prescriber‐led protocol for anaemia management in established haemodialysis patients: A retrospective study
Authors: George Sani , McCann Margaret
Published: April 2020

Aim and objective

To evaluate the impact of a nurse prescriber‐led protocol compared to a traditional physician‐led nonprotocol‐based approach had on maintaining targeted haemoglobin levels in patients on maintenance haemodialysis.

Background

Anaemia is a common complication of chronic kidney disease and has a profound impact on the patients’ well‐being. Current practices place a greater emphasis on the decision‐making role of nurses in renal anaemia management. The introduction of nurse prescribing in this area is a relatively new concept.

Design

A retrospective cohort design, covering an eight‐month period pre‐ and post introduction of a nurse prescriber‐led anaemia protocol; study adheres to the STROBE Statement.

Methods

Using a nonprobability convenience sample, data extracted from the medical records and electronic patient records system (eMed) related to 74 patients at a single outpatient haemodialysis centre located within an acute general teaching hospital. The primary outcome was patients’ haemoglobin level pre‐ and post introduction of the protocol. Secondary outcomes included erythropoietin‐stimulating agent and iron dosage, and serum ferritin and transferrin saturation levels.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between pre‐ and post protocol serum haemoglobin level and erythropoietin‐stimulating agent dosage. Under the management of the nurse prescriber, patients experienced a significant improvement in serum ferritin and transferrin saturation levels and required significantly less intravenous iron dosage.

Conclusions

This study, the first of its kind, found that patients receiving haemodialysis experience a significant improvement in iron indices while receiving a significantly lower amount of intravenous iron when managed by a nurse prescriber. Furthermore, the nurse prescribers’ decision‐making capacity is as effective as a physician‐led nonprotocol‐based approach in achieving haemoglobin target levels.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurse prescribers have a role in implementing a safe, standardised and sustained approach to anaemia management in outpatient haemodialysis settings without compromising patient care.
Ehrlichia canisin dogs experimentally infected, treated, and then immune suppressed during the acute or subclinical phases
Authors: Sato Masahiko , Veir Julia K. , Shropshire Sarah B. , Lappin Michael R.
Published: April 2020

Background

Concerns for recrudescence ofEhrlichia canisinfection arise when immunosuppressive drugs are used to treat immune‐mediated diseases in dogs previously infected withE. canis.

Objectives

Determine whether administration of prednisolone and cyclosporine would reactivateE. canisinfection in dogs previously treated with doxycycline during the acute or subclinical phases.

Animals

Seven beagles previously experimentally infected withE. canisand administered doxycycline for 4 weeks were included. Three of the 7 dogs were incidentally concurrently infected withAnaplasma platysandBabesia vogeliand were administered 2 doses of imidocarb 2 weeks apart before enrollment in the current study.

Methods

Experimental study. Each dog was administered prednisolone and cyclosporine for 6 weeks. Clinical signs, complete blood cell count (CBC), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays forE. canis,A. platys, andB. vogeliDNA in blood,E. canisindirect fluorescent antibodies (IFA) titers, and flow cytometry for antiplatelet antibodies were monitored.

Results

All dogs completed the immunosuppressive protocol. No evidence for recrudescence ofE. canis,A. platys, orB. vogeliwere detected based on clinical signs or results of CBC, PCR, IFA, and flow cytometry for antiplatelet antibodies.E. canisIFA titers were negative in 5/7 dogs at the end of immunosuppressive protocol and were negative 6 months after the protocol in 5/5 dogs available for testing.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs administered with a 4‐week course of doxycycline with or without imidocarb failed to show evidence of activation ofE. canisinfection after administration of a commonly used immune suppressive protocol.
Terpenoids are transported in the xylem sap of Norway spruce
Authors: Duan Qiuxiao , Bonn Boris , Kreuzwieser Jürgen
Published: April 2020

Norway spruce is a conifer storing large amounts of terpenoids in resin ducts of various tissues. Parts of the terpenoids stored in needles can be emitted together with de novo synthesized terpenoids. Since previous studies provided hints on xylem transported terpenoids as a third emission source, we tested if terpenoids are transported in xylem sap of Norway spruce. We further aimed at understanding if they might contribute to terpenoid emission from needles. We determined terpenoid content and composition in xylem sap, needles, bark, wood and roots of field grown trees, as well as terpenoid emissions from needles. We found considerable amounts of terpenoids—mainly oxygenated compounds—in xylem sap. The terpenoid concentration in xylem sap was relatively low compared with the content in other tissues, where terpenoids are stored in resin ducts. Importantly, the terpenoid composition in the xylem sap greatly differed from the composition in wood, bark or roots, suggesting that an internal transport of terpenoids takes place at the sites of xylem loading. Four terpenoids were identified in xylem sap and emissions, but not within needle tissue, suggesting that these compounds are likely derived from xylem sap. Our work gives hints that plant internal transport of terpenoids exists within conifers; studies on their functions should be a focus of future research.