bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Does Replication-Associated Mutational Pressure Influence Amino Acid Composition of Proteins?
Authors: Mackiewicz Pawel , Gierlik Agnieszka , Kowalczuk Maria , Dudek Miroslaw R. , Cebrat Stanislaw
Published: November 2021

We have performed detrended DNA walks on whole prokaryotic genomes, on noncoding sequences and, separately, on each position in codons of coding sequences. Our method enables us to distinguish between the mutational pressure associated with replication and the mutational pressure associated with transcription and other mechanisms that introduce asymmetry into prokaryotic chromosomes. In many prokaryotic genomes, each component of mutational pressure affects coding sequences not only in silent positions but also in positions in which changes cause amino acid substitutions in coded proteins. Asymmetry in the silent positions of codons differentiates the rate of translation of mRNA produced from leading and lagging strands. Asymmetry in the amino acid composition of proteins resulting from replication-associated mutational pressure also corresponds to leading and lagging roles of DNA strands, whereas asymmetry connected with transcription and coding function corresponds to the distance of genes from the origin or terminus of chromosome replication.
Genomic Structure and Comparative Analysis of Nine Fugu Genes: Conservation of Synteny with Human Chromosome Xp22.2–p22.1
Authors: Brunner Bodo , Todt Tilman , Lenzner Steffen , Stout Karen , Schulz Ute , Ropers Hans-Hilger , Kalscheuer Vera M.
Published: November 2021

The pufferfish Fugu rubripes has a compact 400-Mb genome that is ∼7.5 times smaller than the human genome but contains a similar number of genes. Focusing on the distal short arm of the human X chromosome, we have studied the evolutionary conservation of gene orders in Fugu and man. Sequencing of 68 kb of Fugugenomic DNA identified nine genes in the following order: (SCML2)-STK9, XLRS1, PPEF-1, KELCH2, KELCH1, PHKA2, AP19, and U2AF1-RS2. Apart from an evolutionary inversion separatingAP19 and U2AF1-RS2 from PHKA2, gene orders are identical in Fugu and man, and all nine human homologs map to the Xp22 band. All Fugu genes were found to be smaller than their human counterparts, but gene structures were mostly identical. These data suggest that genomic sequencing in Fugu is a powerful and economical strategy to predict gene orders in the human genome and to elucidate the structure of human genes.

[Sequence data for this article were deposited with the EMBL/GenBank data libraries under accession nos. AJ011381 and AF094327.]
Genomic Characterization of Human DSPG3
Authors: Deere Michelle , Dieguez Jose L. , Yoon Sung-Joo Kim , Hewett-Emmett David , de la Chapelle Albert , Hecht Jacqueline T.
Published: November 2021

DSPG3, the human homolog to chick PG-Lb, is a member of the small leucine-rich repeat proteoglycan (SLRP) family, including decorin, biglycan, fibromodulin, and lumican. In contrast to the tissue distribution of the other SLRPs, DSPG3 is predominantly expressed in cartilage. In this study, we have determined that the human DSPG3 gene is composed of seven exons: Exon 2 ofDSPG3 includes the start codon, exons 4–7 code for the leucine-rich repeats, exons 3 and 7 contain the potential glycosaminoglycan attachment sites, and exon 7 contains the potential N-glycosylation sites and the stop codon. We have identified two polymorphic variations, an insertion/deletion composed of 19 nucleotides in intron 1 and a tetranucleotide (TATT)n repeat in intron 5. Analysis of 1.6 kb of upstream promoter sequence ofDSPG3 reveals three TATA boxes, one of which is 20 nucleotides before the transcription start site. The transcription start site precedes the translation start site by 98 nucleotides. There are 14 potential binding sites for SOX9, a transcription factor present in cartilage, in the promoter, and in the first intron of DSPG3. We have examined the evolution of the SLRP gene family and found that gene products clustered together in the evolutionary tree are encoded by genes with similarities in genomic structure. Hence, it appears that the majority of the introns in the SLRP genes were inserted after the differentiation of the SLRP genes from an ancestral gene that was most likely composed of 2–3 exons.

[The sequence data described in this paper have been submitted to GenBank under accession nos.AF031658 and U63814.]
Loss of Heterozygosity Analysis Using Whole Genome Amplification, Cell Sorting, and Fluorescence-Based PCR
Authors: Paulson Thomas G. , Galipeau Patricia C. , Reid Brian J.
Published: November 2021

Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) is a common genetic lesion found in many human neoplasms. Extending investigation of LOH to large-scale clinical and public health science studies has proven difficult because of the small size and cellular and genetic heterogeneity of human neoplasms, in addition to the challenges associated with increasing throughput. Our approach to LOH analysis was developed using clinical biopsy samples from patients with Barrett’s esophagus (BE) and uses flow cytometric cell sorting to increase sample purity, whole genome amplification to increase sample amount, and automated fluorescent genotyping to increase sample throughput. This approach allows LOH assessment at 20 loci in DNA extracted from 1000 flow-purified cells while maintaining accurate and reproducible allele ratios compared with the standard method of using genomic DNA. This method of analysis should allow accurate, reproducible determination of allele ratios in a variety of human tumors and premalignant conditions.
Genomic Evolution, Patterns of Global Dissemination, and Interspecies Transmission of Human and Simian T-cell Leukemia/Lymphotropic Viruses
Authors: Slattery Jill Pecon , Franchini Genoveffa , Gessain Antoine
Published: November 2021

Using both env and long terminal repeat (LTR) sequences, with maximal representation of genetic diversity within primate strains, we revise and expand the unique evolutionary history of human and simian T-cell leukemia/lymphotropic viruses (HTLV/STLV). Based on the robust application of three different phylogenetic algorithms of minimum evolution–neighbor joining, maximum parsimony, and maximum likelihood, we address overall levels of genetic diversity, specific rates of mutation within and between different regions of the viral genome, relatedness among viral strains from geographically diverse regions, and estimation of the pattern of divergence of the virus into extant lineages. Despite broad genomic similarities, type I and type II viruses do not share concordant evolutionary histories. HTLV-I/STLV-I are united through distinct phylogeographic patterns, infection of 20 primate species, multiple episodes of interspecies transmission, and exhibition of a range in levels of genetic divergence. In contrast, type II viruses are isolated from only two species (Homo sapiens and Pan paniscus) and are paradoxically endemic to both Amerindian tribes of the New World and human Pygmy villagers in Africa. Furthermore, HTLV-II is spreading rapidly through new host populations of intravenous drug users. Despite such clearly disparate host populations, the resultant HTLV-II/STLV-II phylogeny exhibits little phylogeographic concordance and indicates low levels of transcontinental genetic differentiation. Together, these patterns generate a model of HTLV/STLV emergence marked by an ancient ancestry, differential rates of divergence, and continued global expansion.
The CMT2D Locus: Refined Genetic Position and Construction of a Bacterial Clone-Based Physical Map
Authors: Ellsworth Rachel E. , Ionasescu Victor , Searby Charles , Sheffield Val C. , Braden Valerie V. , Kucaba Tamara A. , McPherson John D. , Marra Marco A. , Green Eric D.
Published: November 2021

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is a progressive neuropathy of the peripheral nervous system, typically characterized by muscle weakness of the distal limbs. CMT is noted for its genetic heterogeneity, with four distinct loci already identified for the axonal form of the disease (CMT2). In 1996, linkage analysis of a single large family revealed the presence of a CMT2 locus on chromosome 7p14 (designatedCMT2D). Additional families have been linked subsequently to the same genomic region, including one with distal spinal muscular atrophy (dSMA) and one with mixed features of dSMA and CMT2; symptoms in both of these latter families closely resemble those seen in the original CMT2D family. There is thus a distinct possibility that CMT2 and dSMA encountered in these families reflect allelic heterogeneity at a single chromosome 7 locus. In the study reported here, we have performed more detailed linkage analysis of the original CMT2D family based on new knowledge of the physical locations of various genetic markers. The region containing the CMT2D gene, as defined by the original family, overlaps with those defined by at least two other families with CMT2 and/or dSMA symptoms. Both yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) and bacterial clone-based [bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) and P1-derived artificial chromosome (PAC)] contig maps spanning ∼3.4 Mb have been assembled across the combinedCMT2D critical region, with the latter providing suitable clones for systematic sequencing of the interval. Preliminary analyses have already revealed at least 28 candidate genes and expressed-sequence tags (ESTs). The mapping information reported here in conjunction with the evolving sequence data should expedite the identification of the CMT2D/dSMA gene or genes.
The Involvement of Genome Researchers in High School Science Education
Authors: Munn Maureen , Skinner Peggy O’Neill , Conn Lane , Horsma H. Geraldine , Gregory Paula
Published: November 2021

The rapid accumulation of genetic information generated by the Human Genome Project and related research has heightened public awareness of genetics issues. Education in genome science is needed at all levels in our society by specific audiences and the general public so that individuals can make well-informed decisions related to public policy and issues such as genetic testing. Many scientists have found that an effective vehicle for reaching a broad sector of society is through high school biology courses. From an educational perspective, genome science offers many ways to meet emerging science learning goals, which are influencing science teaching nationally. To effectively meet the goals of the science and education communities, genome education needs to include several major components—accurate and current information about genomics, hands-on experience with DNA techniques, education in ethical decision-making, and career counseling and preparation. To be most successful, we have found that genome education programs require the collaborative efforts of science teachers, genome researchers, ethicists, genetic counselors, and business partners. This report is intended as a guide for genome researchers with an interest in participating in pre-college education, providing rationale for their involvement and recommendations for ways they can contribute, and highlighting a few exemplary programs. World Wide Web addresses for all of the programs discussed in this report are given in Table 1. We are developing a database of outreach programs offering genetics education (http://genetics-education.mbt.washington.edu/database) and request that readers submit an entry describing their programs. We invite researchers to contact us for more information about activities in their local area.
A 3-Mb High-Resolution BAC/PAC Contig of 12q22 Encompassing the 830-kb Consensus Minimal Deletion in Male Germ Cell Tumors
Authors: Murty Vundavalli V.V.S. , Montgomery Kate , Dutta Shipra , Bala Shashi , Renault Beatrice , Bosl George J. , Kucherlapati Raju , Chaganti Raju S.K.
Published: November 2021

Cytogenetic and molecular genetic analyses have shown that the 12q22 region is recurrently deleted in male germ cell tumors (GCTs), suggesting that this site may harbor a tumor suppressor gene (TSG). Previous loss of heterozygosity (LOH) analyses identified a consensus minimal deleted region between the markers D12S377 andD12S296, and a YAC clone contig covering the region was generated. Here, we describe a high-resolution sequence-ready physical map of this contig covering a 3-Mb region. The map comprised of 52 cosmids, 49 PACs, and 168 BACs that were anchored to the previous YAC contig; 99 polymorphic, nonpolymorphic, EST, and gene-based markers are now placed on this map in a unique order. Of these, 61 markers were isolated in the present study, including one that was polymorphic. In addition, we have narrowed the minimal deletion to ∼830 kb betweenD12S1716 (proximal) and P382A8-AG (distal) by LOH analysis of 108 normal-tumor DNAs from GCT patients using 21 polymorphic STSs. These physical and deletion maps should prove useful for identification of the candidate TSG in GCTs, provide framework to generate complete DNA sequence, and ultimately generate a gene map of this segment of the chromosome 12.

[The sequence data described in this paper have been submitted to the Genome Survey Sequence under accession nos. AQ254896–AQ254955 andAQ269251–AQ269266. Online supplementary material is available athttp://www.genome.org]
A Sequence-Ready BAC Contig of the GABAA Receptor Gene Cluster Gabrg1–Gabra2–Gabrb1 on Mouse Chromosome 5
Authors: Lengeling Andreas , Wiltshire Tim , Otmani Chris , Bućan Maja
Published: November 2021

The type-A receptors for the neurotransmitter GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) are ligand-gated chloride channels that mediate postsynaptic inhibition. The functional diversity of these receptors comes from the use of a large repertoire of subunits encoded by separate genes, as well as from differences in subunit composition of individual receptors. In mammals, a majority of GABAAreceptor subunit genes are located in gene clusters that may be important for their regulated expression and function. We have established a high-resolution physical map of the cluster of genes encoding GABAA receptor subunits α2 (Gabra2), β1 (Gabrb1), and γ1 (Gabrg1) on mouse chromosome 5. Rat cDNA probes and specific sequence probes for all three GABAA receptor subunit genes have been used to initiate the construction of a sequence-ready contig of bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) encompassing this cluster. In the process of contig construction clones from 129/Sv and C57BL/6J BAC libraries were isolated. The assembled 1.3-Mb contig, consisting of 45 BACs, gives five- to sixfold coverage over the gene cluster and provides an average resolution of one marker every 32 kb. A number of BAC insert ends were sequenced, generating 30 new sequence tag sites (STS) in addition to 6 Gabr gene-based and 3 expressed sequence tag (EST)-based markers. STSs from, and surrounding, theGabrg1–Gabra2–Gabrb1 gene cluster were mapped in the T31 mouse radiation hybrid panel. The integration of the BAC contig with a map of loci ordered by radiation hybrid mapping suggested the most likely genomic orientation of this cluster on mouse chromosome 5: cen–D5Mit151–Gabrg1–Gabra2–Gabrb1–D5Mit58–tel. This established contig will serve as a template for genomic sequencing and for functional analysis of the GABAA gene cluster on mouse chromosome 5 and the corresponding region on human chromosome 4.

The sequence data described in this paper have been submitted to the GenBank/GSS data libraries under accession nos.AF156490 and AQ589406–AQ589436.
High-Resolution Landmark Framework for the Sequence-Ready Mapping of Xq23–q26.1
Authors: Steingruber Helen E. , Dunham Andrew , Coffey Alison J. , Clegg Sheila M. , Howell Gareth R. , Maslen Gareth L. , Scott Carol E. , Gwilliam Rhian , Hunt Paul J. , Sotheran Elizabeth C. , Huckle Elizabeth J. , Hunt Sarah E. , Dhami Pawandeep , Soderlund Cari , Leversha Margaret A. , Bentley David R. , Ross Mark T.
Published: November 2021

We have established a landmark framework map over 20–25 Mb of the long arm of the human X chromosome using yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) clones. The map has approximately one landmark per 45 kb of DNA and stretches from DXS7531 in proximal Xq23 to DXS895 in proximal Xq26, connecting to published framework maps on its proximal and distal sides. There are three gaps in the framework map resulting from the failure to obtain clone coverage from the YAC resources available. Estimates of the maximum sizes of these gaps have been obtained. The four YAC contigs have been positioned and oriented using somatic-cell hybrids and fluorescence in situ hybridization, and the largest is estimated to cover ∼15 Mb of DNA. The framework map is being used to assemble a sequence-ready map in large-insert bacterial clones, as part of an international effort to complete the sequence of the X chromosome. PAC and BAC contigs currently cover 18 Mb of the region, and from these, 12 Mb of finished sequence is available.
Evidence Suggesting That a Fifth of Annotated Caenorhabditis elegans Genes May Be Pseudogenes
Authors: Mounsey Andrew , Bauer Petra , Hope Ian A.
Published: November 2021

Only a minority of the genes, identified in theCaenorhabditis elegans genome sequence data by computer analysis, have been characterized experimentally. We attempted to determine the expression patterns for a random sample of the annotated genes using reporter gene fusions. A low success rate was obtained for evolutionarily recently duplicated genes. Analysis of the data suggests that this is not due to conditional or low-level expression. The remaining explanation is that most of the annotated genes in the recently duplicated category are pseudogenes, a proportion corresponding to 20% of all of the annotated C. elegansgenes. Further support for this surprisingly high figure was sought by comparing sequences for families of recently duplicated C. elegans genes. Although only a preliminary analysis, clear evidence for a gene having been recently inactivated by genetic drift was found for many genes in the recently duplicated category. At least 4% of the annotated C. elegans genes can be recognized as pseudogenes simply from closer inspection of the sequence data. Lessons learned in identifying pseudogenes in C. elegans could be of value in the annotation of the genomes of other species where, although there may be fewer pseudogenes, they may be harder to detect.

[Online supplementary material available atwww.genome.org.]
Impact of AI technologies on organisational learning: proposing an organisation cognition schema
Authors: Nimmi P.M. , Vilone Giulia , Jagathyraj V.P.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The work depicts an organizational learning schema, which reflects on the cognition structure of workplaces during the integration of AI-powered technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper summarizes the most recent advances on organizational cognition from organizational studies. The article tries to capture how learning is impacted at the individual level and organization level, with incorporation of AI technologies.

Findings

The theoretical schema on organizational cognition could be studied and integrated to fill this gap and support an effective and smooth transition from electronic, computer-based industries (characteristics of the third industrial revolution) to AI powered enterprises.

Originality/value

It's one of the first works to discuss organization learning along with AI technologies.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and policy response on single-parent families in Malaysia
Authors: Rahman Nur Hairani Abd
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The study focuses on the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and policy measures implemented by the Malaysian government to address issues during this period. The study examines the impacts on the financial security and mental health of single-parent families in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional survey to obtain data about single-parent families. To support the information collected with the survey, interviews were conducted with six representatives from six single-parent associations.

Findings

The study identified that policy measures implemented by the Malaysian government have helped improve the financial security of single-parent families. However, for mental health, the support single parents received was not able to provide better quality of life, as the majority were severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially during lockdown, before they received any assistance from the government.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted during the pandemic; thus, the study was not able to include a larger sample of single parents. Therefore, the findings cannot be generalized to explain nationwide issues. However, the study provides important insights into understanding the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on people, especially single-parent families.

Practical implications

The study confirmed that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected single parents in different ways. Financial security and mental health, the focus of this study, have provided a clear justification for how pandemics could affect people’s lives. Specifically, the situation was exacerbated after the implementation of movement control orders in Malaysia, and it has continuously affected the living conditions of single-parent families.

Social implications

The study focuses on single-parent families, a group that receives less attention from the government and policies, although this group is recognized as one of the vulnerable groups. Understanding this context helps to provide a clear guide for how policies can be formulated and provides equal attention to assist this group in the future.

Originality/value

This study focuses on single-parent families. Few studies have examined this perspective using Malaysia as the study context. Moreover, the study analyzes the pandemic situation, and this area is still new and underexplored.
Community norms and corporate philanthropy: the moderating role of women on board of directors
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Zhe , Jia Ming
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study examines how community norms, such as religious atmosphere and economic pressures, affect corporate philanthropic giving. Grounded in upper echelon theory, the authors further focus on how the women on board of directors (BODs) play an important role in the relationship between community norms and corporate philanthropic giving.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes a two-stage Heckman selection model to control the sample-selection bias. The final sample includes 8,566 observations for the first stage and 5,575 observations for the second stage. Then, by using a sample of Chinese listed firms in 2010–2014, this study establishes a strong and robust support for the hypotheses.

Findings

This study finds that religious atmosphere is significantly and positively associated with corporate philanthropic giving, whereas the relationship between economic pressure and corporate philanthropy is negative. Furthermore, women on BODs not only strengthen the relationship between religious atmosphere and corporate philanthropic giving but also strengthen the relationship between economic pressure and corporate philanthropic giving.

Originality/value

First, the authors contribute to community literature by developing a subdivided perspective. The authors provide the first attempt to empirically investigate the hidden association between the two perspectives of community (religious atmosphere and economic pressure) and corporate philanthropic giving. Second, the authors contribute to the literature on corporate philanthropy by expanding the antecedents of corporate philanthropic giving to communities where firms are headquartered. Third, by capturing the multiple identities of women, the authors enrich the study of the influence of minority groups on corporate decision-making. The authors find that gender diversity on BODs strengthen the influence of community norms on corporate philanthropic giving.
Job satisfaction and OCBs: what’s new? The mediating role of organizational identification
Authors: Urbini Flavio , Chirumbolo Antonio , Caracuzzo Emanuela , Callea Antonino
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of intrinsic job satisfaction (JS) on organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs) directed toward individuals (OCBs-I) and OCB directed toward organization (OCBs-O) via organizational identification (OID). Based on social exchange and social identity theories, it is hypothesized that OID may play a mediator role in the relationship between JS and OCBs-I and OCBs-O.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire investigating JS, OID and OCBs dimensions was administered to 719 Italian employees. The mediation hypotheses were analyzed through structural equation model, via bootstrap analysis, after preliminary analyses as correlations and measurement model.

Findings

Results showed a positive relationship between JS, OID and OCBs dimensions. Furthermore, OID partially mediated the positive effects of JS on OCBs-I and OCBs-O. These findings supported hypotheses, suggesting that OID may explain the psychological mechanism through which an employee intrinsically satisfied about own job will fulfill more extra-role performance, i.e. OCBs-I and OCBs-O.

Practical implications

Implications for human resource management policies are discussed: to HR professionals is proposed to implement interventions to enhance employees’ intrinsic satisfaction and identification with the organization, to increase consequently positive organizational behaviors such as OCBs.

Originality/value

This study attempted to examine the JS-OCBs relationship in more depth. For the first time, the JS on OCBs-I and OCBs-O were simultaneously investigated, with OID as a mediator: shedding new light on the relationship among these variables.
Orchestrating value co-creation in online communities as fluid organisations: firm roles and value creation mechanisms
Authors: Priharsari Diah , Abedin Babak
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The lack of authority of the sponsoring firm in online communities raises questions about how to orchestrate members of an online community in value co-creation. Hence, this study aims to examine how online communities co-create value with community members. The authors draw upon service-dominant logic (SDL) to study two comparable, and yet different, Indonesian firm-sponsored online communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors build on an earlier systematic literature review and triangulate it with semi-structured interviews of 28 community members and content analysis of over 35,000 online comments. The data collection was conducted from February to October 2018.

Findings

The findings revealed that (1) value co-creation in online communities is orchestrated through the fluidity of the online community, which is represented by three mechanisms: consensus-making, consensus settlement and changing boundaries, and (2) the mechanisms can be conditioned by switching firm roles (as a co-creator and facilitator).

Research limitations/implications

The study has enriched the body of knowledge in fluid organisations by explicating three mechanisms, consensus-making, consensus settlement and changing boundaries, that explain the coordination efforts between individuals who have options to participate or not and changing boundaries, that reveals actors' responses in online communities. The mechanisms demonstrate the dynamics of a service ecosystem.

Originality/value

This study offers valuable insights into how sponsoring firms orchestrate value creation in online communities where they do not have full control of participants' reactions. The authors hereby contribute to enriching the understanding of co-creating value with customers in a fluid organisation, such as online communities.
Leading change in health care: the challenge of anxiety
Authors: Edmonstone John Duncan
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the centrality of anxiety in health care, especially in the context of leading change. It identifies the importance of emotional labour for clinical professionals and the resultant development of defensive routines. The idea of containment is central to addressing anxiety.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach involves identification of anxiety as a key factor in leading change in health care, but one which is often ignored.

Findings

Anxiety is the elephant in the room vis-a-vis leading change in health care. To address the use of defensive routines, a range of activities can act as “containers” for anxiety and help with leading change.

Practical implications

To lead change in health care implies addressing the existence and importance of anxiety and the emotional labour which health-care professionals undertake.

Originality/value

The existence of anxiety and the profound impact it has on leading change in health care has typically been under-estimated or avoided. The paper aims to remedy this.
Physical activity and sedentary behaviors associated with overweight and obesity among primary school children in Tanzania: a case-control study
Authors: Pacific Renatha , Kulwa Kissa , Martin Haikael D. , Petrucka Pammla
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aims at determining the risk of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors on overweight and obesity among primary school children aged 10–13 years in Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

A case-control study was conducted from January to March 2020 involving 69 overweight/obese children as cases and 138 normal weight children as controls. Cases were identified as having body mass index-for-age ≥ +1 standard deviation (SD) and controls as those having BMI-for-age range between −2 SD to <+1 SD. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection on daily physical activities and sedentary behavior types, frequency duration and activity score. An independent sample t-test was used to compare means of activity score between cases and controls. Binary logistic regression was used to predict risk factors for overweight/obesity.

Findings

Risk factors for overweight/obesity were listening to music and/or radio for >2 h/week (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2–6.1) and walking for exercise <2 h/week (OR 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–4.1). On the other hand, rope skipping for >2 h/week (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.03–0.7) was a protective factor against overweight/obesity. Controls had a significantly higher mean score of being active during lunch breaks compared to cases (p = 0.012). Cases had higher weight, height and percentage body fat than controls (p < 0.001). The home environment provided more avenues for physical activity than the school environment.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is original research work and the first case-control study to predict physical activity and sedentary behaviors as risk factors for overweight and obesity in Tanzanian school children.
Organizational workplace relocation: assessment of facilities and real estate managers' practices
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed M. , Hassanain Mohammad A.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This research investigates the literature and perspectives of bilateral domains of experts, the facilities management (FM) and real estate management (REM) professionals. It provides insights towards a comprehensive understanding of office facilities relocation as organizational workplaces.

Design/methodology/approach

An investigation of the literature was conducted, to identify design aspects, drivers, challenges, and technical and functional considerations of the workplace relocation. A structured survey was utilized, as face-to-face interviews with 32 FM and 32 REM professionals, to explore and compare their perspectives and expertise.

Findings

The study identified key aspects for workplace relocation that were rarely focused on, holistically, in the literature. The research led to identifying the drivers, challenges, considerations, scenarios, and design needs pertaining to the implementation, acquisition, and occupation of the workplace in times of relocation. There is a dispersed view on workplace relocation between FM and REM, which requires alignment. FM and REM experts' perspectives were intrinsically discussed to ascertain the identified key areas.

Practical implications

Workplace relocation is a change that disturbs almost every workplace around the globe, at least once in its life cycle. This study enlists comprehension of the knowledge obtained from a review of the international literature, to provide a holistic guide for organizational decision makers, and interlink FM and REM professionals' perspectives, for enhanced decision-making.

Originality/value

This article reviews the literature on workplace relocation, covering FM and REM domains perspectives to advance the organizational workplace relocation practices.
Rooftop photovoltaic system allocation to improve the distribution transformers life span using golden ratio optimization algorithm
Authors: Sobouti Mohammad Amin , Bigdeli Mehdi , Azizian Davood
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the effect of optimal use of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems on improving the loss of life (LOL) of distribution transformers, reducing power losses as well as the unbalance rate of the 69-bus distribution network.

Design/methodology/approach

The problem is studied in three scenarios, considering different objective functions as multi-objective optimization in balanced and unbalanced operations. Meta-heuristic golden ratio optimization method (GROM) is used to determine the optimal size of the rooftop PV in the network.

Findings

The simulation results show that in all scenarios, the GROM by optimally installing the rooftop PV is significantly capable to reduce the transformer distribution loss of loss, unbalance rate and power loss as well as reduce the temperature of the oil and transformer winding. Also, the lowest %LOL, power loss and unbalance rate occurred in the second scenario for the balanced network and first scenario, respectively. In addition, the results showed that the unbalance of the network results in increased power losses and LOL of the distribution transformer.

Originality/value

The better capability of GROM is proved compared with the grey wolf optimization algorithm with better objective function and by achieving better values of LOL, unbalance rate and power loss. The results also showed that the %LOL, unbalance and power losses are weakened compared to without considering the PV cost but the achieved results are realistic and cost-effective.
Forgetting Oneself: Epigraphs and Escapism in Ann Radcliffe's Novels
Authors: Yem Eirian Jade
Published: November 2021

In spite of its gendered heritage, Ann Radcliffe was an early adopter of the chapter epigraph. She wrote her fiction with the interests of a growing female readership in mind, placing English (as opposed to Latin or Greek) epigraphs at the head of her chapters and quoting women alongside men. This article uses two of her novels, The Romance of the Forest (1791) and The Mysteries of Udolpho (1794), to explore the concept of forgetting oneself and the role of the epigraph in correcting a feminine mode of reading associated with the Gothic novel. It argues for the epigraph as a conservative but democratic form, which allowed Radcliffe to stage issues of nationalism and gender politics, and reveals an ambivalence towards authority that is characteristic of Radcliffe's style and purpose.
Pregnancy in Takayasu’s arteritis has a high risk of hypertension‐related fetomaternal complications: A retrospective study of a Turkish cohort
Authors: Gönenli Mehmet Gökhan , Kaymaz Tahra Sema , Kara Mete , Keser Gökhan , Yazıcı Ayten , Erden Abdulsamet , Omma Ahmet , Gerçik Önay , Akar Servet , Aksu Kenan , Kenar Gökçe , Kocaer Sinem Burcu , Önen Fatoş , Ersözlü Duygu , Alibaz‐Öner Fatma , Bayramlar Osman Faruk , Direskeneli Haner , Alpay‐Kanıtez Nilüfer
Published: November 2021

Background

This study aimed to examine fetomaternal outcomes in pregnant women in a large Turkish Takayasu arteritis (TAK) cohort and to evaluate the effects of pregnancy on the disease in those patients.

Methods

This is a cohort study involving 296 pregnancies of 112 TAK patients from 8 tertiary rheumatology centers in Turkey. Pregnancies were divided into 2 groups as pre‐d (before disease onset) and post‐d (after disease onset). In addition, post‐d pregnancies were further divided into 2 subgroups according to fetomaternal complications (FMC) development status. Finally, patients were grouped into those with and without a history of pregnancy after disease onset.

Results

In post‐d pregnancies, rates of worsening hypertension, new‐onset hypertension, and preeclampsia were higher than in pre‐d pregnancies (0.9% vs 16%, P < .001, 0.5% vs 5.3%, P = .012, and 0% vs 4%, P = .013, respectively). Patients with FMC were more likely to have renal artery involvement (65% vs 21%, P = .003). The patients who had post‐d were younger, had longer disease duration, and had more relapses number than other patients (P < .001, P = .028, P = .016, respectively). Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI) results were similar in patients with or without post‐d pregnancies.

Conclusion

Pregnancies after disease onset were found to be associated with HT and preeclampsia/eclampsia. HT‐related FMCs are increased in TAK, and patients with renal artery involvement are at higher risk. The number of relapses increases in patients who become pregnant after disease onset, but pregnancy was not an independent risk factor for relapse. Pregnancy after the onset of disease had no negative effect on VDI.
Optimal pricing, private information and search for an outside offer
Authors: Auster Sarah , Kos Nenad , Piccolo Salvatore
Published: November 2021

A buyer can either buy a good at a local monopolist or search for it in the market. The more intensely the buyer searches, the more likely he will find the good in the market; if his search fails, he can still buy it from the local monopolist. We show that a buyer with a higher willingness to pay searches (weakly) more intensely. This skews the distribution of types buying at the local monopolist toward lower valuations and exerts pressure on the local monopolist to reduce his price. Despite this effect, offering the monopoly price remains weakly optimal in equilibrium.
Best regimens for treating chemo‐naïve incurable squamous non‐small cell lung cancer with a programmed death‐ligand 1 tumor proportion score of 1%–49%: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Fukuda Nobuhiko , Horita Nobuyuki , Namkoong Ho , Kaneko Ayami , Somekawa Kohei , Tagami Yoichi , Watanabe Keisuke , Hara Yu , Kobayashi Nobuaki , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: November 2021

Background

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. It is advisable to select the appropriate treatment based on characteristics of the cancer such as pathology, mutations, and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) levels. In this study, by remarking squamous NSCLC with low PD‐L1 expression without mutations, we investigated the efficacy and safety of regimens that included molecularly targeted drugs such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) through a network meta‐analysis.

Methods

Databases were searched systematically to identify appropriate articles, in which randomized trials with incurable squamous NSCLC were described. Suitable studies were manually checked by two reviewers. A random model network meta‐analysis was conducted, in which the primary outcome was the overall survival rate.

Results

We identified 48 studies, which included 16 391 patients. When a platinum + third‐generation cytotoxic agent regimen (platinum regimen) was a reference, the platinum regimen + pembrolizumab (Pemb) yielded the best results in regard to the overall survival rate when compared with chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.36–0.90, p = 0.016) followed by the platinum regimen + nivolumab (Niv) + ipilimumab (Ipi) (HR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.44–0.84, p = 0.003). However, the efficacy of ICI monotherapy was not statistically different from that of the platinum regimen.

Conclusions

The combination therapies, which were the platinum regimen + Pemb and the platinum regimen + Niv + Ipi, rather than ICI monotherapy were effective first‐line agents for treating squamous NSCLC with low PD‐L1 levels.
Circulating tumor DNA predicts the outcome of chemotherapy in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Min , Huang Chao , Zhou Huan , Liu Dan , Chen Runze , Li Xiuhua , Cheng Ye , Gao Bing , Chen Jun
Published: November 2021

Background

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has potential as a specific, noninvasive, and cost‐effective new biomarker for patients with lung cancer. This study aimed to determine whether plasma ctDNA can be used to predict treatment outcomes in patients with lung cancer.

Methods

Pre‐ and in‐treatment blood samples were collected from 14 patients with lung cancer receiving chemotherapy. Based on next‐generation sequencing technology, we constructed a unique molecular identifier (UMI) library and performed targeted deep sequencing of 72 genes (15 000×). We used dVAF to evaluate the change level and trend of variant allele frequency (VAF).

Results

We identified MUC16, KMT2D, AMER1, and NTRK1 as the most‐frequently mutated genes in ctDNA associated with lung cancer. Furthermore, we showed that the change trend of dVAF in patients with lung cancer undergoing chemotherapy was closely related to the changes in both tumor volume and tumor biomarkers, including CEA, CA125, NSE, and CK (Cytokeratin). Moreover, the ctDNA analysis revealed disease progression of SCLC patients earlier than did computed tomography.

Conclusions

The dynamic detection of plasma ctDNA VAF has the potential value as a biomarker for evaluating the efficacy of chemotherapy in patients with SCLC and advanced NSCLC, and may predict the progression of lung cancer patients earlier than radiography.
Dual methylation and hydroxymethylation study of alcohol use disorder
Authors: Clark Shaunna L. , Chan Robin F. , Zhao Min , Xie Lin Y. , Copeland William E. , Penninx Brenda W. J. H. , Aberg Karolina A. , van den Oord Edwin J. C. G.
Published: November 2021

Using an integrative, multi‐tissue design, we sought to characterize methylation and hydroxymethylation changes in blood and brain associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). First, we used epigenomic deconvolution to perform cell‐type‐specific methylome‐wide association studies within subpopulations of granulocytes/T‐cells/B‐cells/monocytes in 1132 blood samples. Blood findings were then examined for overlap with AUD‐related associations with methylation and hydroxymethylation in 50 human post‐mortem brain samples. Follow‐up analyses investigated if overlapping findings mediated AUD‐associated transcription changes in the same brain samples. Lastly, we replicated our blood findings in an independent sample of 412 individuals and aimed to replicate published alcohol methylation findings using our results. Cell‐type‐specific analyses in blood identified methylome‐wide significant associations in monocytes and T‐cells. The monocyte findings were significantly enriched for AUD‐related methylation and hydroxymethylation in brain. Hydroxymethylation in specific sites mediated AUD‐associated transcription in the same brain samples. As part of the most comprehensive methylation study of AUD to date, this work involved the first cell‐type‐specific methylation study of AUD conducted in blood, identifying and replicating a finding in DLGAP1 that may be a blood‐based biomarker of AUD. In this first study to consider the role of hydroxymethylation in AUD, we found evidence for a novel mechanism for cognitive deficits associated with AUD. Our results suggest promising new avenues for AUD research.
Clinical management of cannabis withdrawal
Authors: Connor Jason P. , Stjepanović Daniel , Budney Alan J. , Le Foll Bernard , Hall Wayne D.
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims

Cannabis withdrawal is a well‐characterized phenomenon that occurs in approximately half of regular and dependent cannabis users after abrupt cessation or significant reductions in cannabis products that contain Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This review describes the diagnosis, prevalence, course and management of cannabis withdrawal and highlights opportunities for future clinical research.

Methods

Narrative review of literature.

Results

Symptom onset typically occurs 24–48 hours after cessation and most symptoms generally peak at days 2–6, with some symptoms lasting up to 3 weeks or more in heavy cannabis users. The most common features of cannabis withdrawal are anxiety, irritability, anger or aggression, disturbed sleep/dreaming, depressed mood and loss of appetite. Less common physical symptoms include chills, headaches, physical tension, sweating and stomach pain. Despite limited empirical evidence, supportive counselling and psychoeducation are the first‐line approaches in the management of cannabis withdrawal. There are no medications currently approved specifically for medically assisted withdrawal (MAW). Medications have been used to manage short‐term symptoms (e.g. anxiety, sleep, nausea). A number of promising pharmacological agents have been examined in controlled trials, but these have been underpowered and positive findings not reliably replicated. Some (e.g. cannabis agonists) are used ‘off‐label’ in clinical practice. Inpatient admission for MAW may be clinically indicated for patients who have significant comorbid mental health disorders and polysubstance use to avoid severe complications.

Conclusions

The clinical significance of cannabis withdrawal is that its symptoms may precipitate relapse to cannabis use. Complicated withdrawal may occur in people with concurrent mental health and polysubstance use.
Understanding contexts of smoking and vaping among dual users: analysis of ecological momentary assessment data
Authors: Piper Megan E. , Baker Timothy B. , Zwaga Deejay , Bolt Daniel M. , Kobinsky Kate H. , Jorenby Douglas E.
Published: November 2021

Aims

To understand dual users’ cigarette and e‐cigarette use patterns, including the contexts in which they vape versus smoke and to understand how environmental and internal contexts and smoking patterns differ between dual users and exclusive smokers.

Design

Longitudinal observational trial.

Setting

Research center in Wisconsin, USA.

Participants

Adult dual users (n = 162) and adults who exclusively smoked (n = 143), with no plans to quit smoking or vaping in the next 30 days.

Measurements

Participants carried smartphones for 2 weeks at baseline to record each use event for the two products and report on the context of their product use. The percentage of mornings where participants vaped first versus smoked were used to compute e‐cigarette dependence.

Findings

Hierarchical linear regression models with random slopes and intercepts examined the within‐ and between‐subject effects of context on the likelihood of vaping (versus smoking); significant fixed effects were tested for moderation by e‐cigarette dependence. Dual users reported significantly more puffs/cigarette [mean = 13.1, standard deviation (SD) = 10.2] than puffs/vape event (mean = 11.7, SD = 11.5; P = 0.01). E‐cigarette dependence moderated the influence of social cues (t‐ratio = 2.4, P = 0.02) and smoking restrictions (t‐ratio = 3.1, P = 0.003) on the likelihood of vaping versus smoking [odds ratio (OR) = 2.30, P = 0.02]. Context was more related to which product was used in those of low versus higher e‐cigarette dependence. Reports of strong cravings to smoke and positive expectancies for cigarettes were associated with a reduced likelihood of vaping, whereas strong cravings to vape and positive vaping expectancies were related to increased likelihood of vaping.

Conclusions

Among dual users of cigarettes and e‐cigarettes with no motivation to quit, vaping appears to be related to internal cues and more highly linked with social contexts and smoking restrictions (i.e. under stronger external stimulus control) among those with low to moderate e‐cigarette dependence compared with high e‐cigarette dependence. These findings illustrate the importance of contextual factors in tobacco product use among dual users with the influence of context being reduced at high levels of e‐cigarette dependence.