bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COUP-TFI/Nr2f1 orchestrates intrinsic neuronal activity during cortical area patterning
Authors: del Pino Isabel , Tocco Chiara , Magrinelli Elia , Marcantoni Andrea , Ferraguto Celeste , Tomagra Giulia , Bertacchi Michele , Alfano Christian , Leinekugel Xavier , Frick Andreas , Studer Michèle
Published: August 2019

The formation of functional cortical maps in the cerebral cortex results from a timely regulated interaction between intrinsic genetic mechanisms and electrical activity. To understand how transcriptional regulation influences network activity and neuronal excitability within the neocortex, we used mice deficient for the area mapping gene Nr2f1 (also known as COUP-TFI), a key determinant of somatosensory area specification during development. We found that cortical loss of Nr2f1 impacts on spontaneous network activity and synchronization at perinatal stages. In addition, we observed alterations in the intrinsic excitability and morphological features of layer V pyramidal neurons. Accordingly, we identified distinct voltage-gated ion channels regulated by Nr2f1 that might directly influence intrinsic bioelectrical properties during critical time windows of somatosensory cortex specification. Together, our data suggest a tight link between Nr2f1 and neuronal excitability in the developmental sequence that ultimately sculpts the emergence of cortical network activity within the immature neocortex.
Distinct neurocomputational mechanisms support informational and normative conformity
Authors: Mahmoodi Ali , Nili Hamed , Bang Dan , Mehring Carsten , Bahrami Bahador
Published: August 2019

A change of mind in response to social influence could be driven by informational conformity to increase accuracy, or by normative conformity to comply with social norms such as reciprocity. Disentangling the behavioural, cognitive and neurobiological underpinnings of informational and normative conformity have proven elusive. Here, participants underwent fMRI while performing a perceptual task that involved both advice-taking and advice-giving to human and computer partners. The concurrent inclusion of two different social roles and two different social partners revealed distinct behavioural and neural markers for informational and normative conformity. dACC BOLD response tracked informational conformity towards both human and computer but tracked normative conformity only when interacting with human. A network of brain areas (dmPFC and TPJ) that tracked normative conformity increased their functional coupling with the dACC when interacting with humans. These findings enable differentiating the neural mechanisms by which different types of conformity shape social changes of mind.
Development and validation of a multidimensional composite pain scale for Rabbit (CANCRS) in a clinical environment
Authors: Banchi Penelope , Quaranta Giuseppe , Ricci Alessandro , Degerfeld Mitzy Mauthe von
Published: August 2019

The main objective of this study was to develop a multidimensional composite pain scale for assessing and quantifying pain in rabbits (CANCRS); to this purpose, Rabbit Grimace Scale (RbtGS) and a scale including clinical parameters (CPS) were merged; the two scales performances were also evaluated individually, in order to validate RbtGS in a clinical setting and to verify clinical parameters usefulness in detecting pain.

Rabbits (n=116) were evaluated by two raters, who could be veterinarians (V) or veterinary medicine students (S). Raters were asked to report the time needed for any evaluation and a total score, in order to define a pain class. Pain classes (No pain, Discomfort, Moderate pain and Severe pain) matched presumptive pain classes and accordingly, the validity of the three scales was measured using Chi-square test.

Patients (n=69) were evaluated by one V and one S, allowing to assess the impact that the experience has on the results. Inter-rater reliability was tested for each scale using intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and for each parameter of the CANCRS using Cohen’s kappa. Validity results show that only CANCRS and RbtGS efficiently reveal pain, but both tend to underestimate it.

Inter-rater reliability was very good for both CANCRS and CPS, suggesting that experience has little influence on the results; rater’s experience has a greater impact using RbtGS.

Inter-rater agreement was at least good for each parameter.

In conclusion, CPS alone is neither effective or reliable in quantifying pain.

The RbtGS is a useful tool in clinical practice, when coping with many rabbit breeds; however, training is beneficial for a better use of the scale.

The CANCRS is easy and fast to use and enrich RbtGS with some clinical parameters that should be monitored during any clinical examination, leading to a more exhaustive evaluation of the patient.
A highly parallel, automated platform enabling individual or sequential ChIP of histone marks and transcription factors
Authors: Dainese Riccardo , Gardeux Vincent , Llimos Gerard , Alpern Daniel , Jiang Jia Yuan , Alves Meireles-Filho Antonio Carlos , Deplancke Bart
Published: August 2019

Despite its popularity, chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) remains a tedious (>2d), manually intensive, low-sensitivity and low-throughput approach. Here, we combine principles of microengineering, surface chemistry and molecular biology to address the major limitations of standard ChIP-seq. The resulting approach, FloChIP, automates and miniaturizes ChIP in a beadless fashion while facilitating the downstream library preparation process through on-chip chromatin tagmentation. FloChIP is fast (<2h), has a wide dynamic range (from 106 to 500 cells), is high-throughput (up to 64 parallel, antibody- or sample-multiplexed experiments) and is compatible with both histone mark and transcription factor ChIP. In addition, FloChIP’s interconnected design allows for straightforward chromatin re-immunoprecipitation, thus constituting the first example of a microfluidic sequential ChIP-seq system. Finally, we demonstrate FloChIP’s high-throughput capacity by performing ChIP-seq of the transcription factor MEF2A in 32 distinct human lymphoblastoid cell lines, providing novel insights into the main factors driving collaborative DNA binding of MEF2A and into its role in B-cell-specific gene regulation. Together, our results validate FloChIP as a flexible and reproducible automated solution for individual or sequential ChIP-seq.
Lipid digestion and autophagy are critical energy providers during acute glucose depletion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Weber Carmen A. , Sekar Karthik , Tang Jeffrey H. , Warmer Philipp , Sauer Uwe , Weis Karsten
Published: August 2019

The ability to tolerate and thrive in diverse environments is paramount to all living organisms, and many organisms spend a large part of their lifetime in starvation. Upon acute glucose starvation, yeast cells undergo drastic physiological and metabolic changes and reestablish a constant - though lower – level of energy production within minutes. The molecules that are rapidly metabolized to fuel energy production under these conditions are unknown. Here, we combine metabolomics and genetics, to characterize the cells’ response to acute glucose depletion and identify pathways that ensure survival during starvation. We show that the ability to respire is essential for maintaining the energy status and to ensure viability during starvation. Measuring the cells’ immediate metabolic response, we find that central metabolites drastically deplete and that the intracellular AMP to ATP ratio strongly increases within 20-30 seconds. Furthermore, we detect changes in both amino acid and lipid metabolite levels. Consistent with this, bulk autophagy, a process that frees amino acids, as well as lipid degradation via β-oxidation contribute in parallel to energy maintenance upon acute starvation. In addition, both these pathways ensure long-term survival during starvation. Thus, our results identify bulk autophagy and β-oxidation as important energy providers during acute glucose starvation.
BactMAP: an R package for integrating, analyzing and visualizing bacterial microscopy data
Authors: van Raaphorst Renske , Kjos Morten , Veening Jan-Willem
Published: August 2019

High-throughput analyses of single-cell microscopy data is a critical tool within the field of bacterial cell biology. Several programs have been developed to specifically segment bacterial cells from phase-contrast images. Together with spot and object detection algorithms, these programs offer powerful approaches to quantify observations from microscopy data, ranging from cell-to-cell genealogy to localization and movement of proteins. Most segmentation programs contain specific post-processing and plotting options, but these options vary between programs and possibilities to optimize or alter the outputs are often limited. Therefore, we developed BactMAP (Bacterial toolbox for Microscopy Analysis & Plotting), a software package that allows researchers to transform cell segmentation and spot detection data generated by different programs automatically into various plots. Furthermore, BactMAP makes it possible to perform custom analyses and change the layout of the output. Because BactMAP works independently of segmentation and detection programs, inputs from different sources can be compared within the same analysis pipeline. BactMAP runs in R, which enables the use of advanced statistical analysis tools as well as easily adjustable plot graphics in every operating system. Using BactMAP we visualize key cell cycle parameters in Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, and demonstrate that the DNA replication forks in Streptococcus pneumoniae dissociate and associate before splitting of the cell, after the Z-ring is formed at the new quarter positions. BactMAP is available from https://veeninglab.com/bactmap.
Guano morphology reveals ecological information in British bats
Authors: Ware Roselyn Lydia , Garrod Benjamin , Macdonald Hannah , Allaby Robin G
Published: August 2019

1.0.

Bats are primary consumers of nocturnal insects, disperse nutrients across landscapes, and are excellent bioindicators of an ecosystem’s health, however four of the seventeen Great British species are listed as declining. In this study we aim to investigate the link between bat guano morphology and diet, specifically looking at the ability to predict 1) species, 2) dietary guild and 3) bat size, using guano morphology alone. It was found that guano morphology overlapped too much to make predictions on species however, in some cases, it could be used to predict dietary guild or size.
Towards development of a statistical framework to evaluate myotonic dystrophy type 1 mRNA biomarkers in the context of a clinical trial
Authors: Kurkiewicz Adam , Cooper Anneli , McIlwaine Emily , Cumming Sarah A. , Adam Berit , Krahe Ralf , Puymirat Jack , Schoser Benedikt , Timchenko Lubov , Ashizawa Tetsuo , Thornton Charles , Rogers Simon , McClure John , Monckton Darren G
Published: August 2019

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a rare genetic disorder, characterised by muscular dystrophy, myotonia, and other symptoms. DM1 is caused by the expansion of a CTG repeat in the 3’-untranslated region of DMPK. Longer CTG expansions are associated with greater symptom severity and earlier age at onset. The primary mechanism of pathogenesis is thought to be mediated by a gain of function of the CUG-containing RNA, that leads to trans-dysregulation of RNA metabolism of many other genes. Specifically, the alternative splicing (AS) and alternative polyadenylation (APA) of many genes is known to be disrupted. In the context of clinical trials of emerging DM1 treatments, it is important to be able to objectively quantify treatment efficacy at the level of molecular biomarkers. We show how previously described candidate mRNA biomarkers can be used to model an effective reduction in CTG length, using modern high-dimensional statistics (machine learning), and a blood and muscle mRNA microarray dataset. We show how this model could be used to detect treatment effects in the context of a clinical trial.
Structural basis of nanobody-recognition of grapevine fanleaf virus and of virus resistance loss
Authors: Orlov Igor , Hemmer Caroline , Ackerer Léa , Lorber Bernard , Ghannam Ahmed , Poignavent Vianney , Hleibieh Kamal , Sauter Claude , Schmitt-Keichinger Corinne , Belval Lorène , Hily Jean-Michel , Marmonier Aurélie , Komar Véronique , Gersch Sophie , Schellenberger Pascale , Bron Patrick , Vigne Emmanuelle , Muyldermans Serge , Lemaire Olivier , Demangeat Gérard , Ritzenthaler Christophe , Klaholz Bruno P.
Published: August 2019

Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) is a picorna-like plant virus transmitted by nematodes that affects vineyards worldwide. Nanobody (Nb)-mediated resistance against GFLV has been created recently and shown to be highly effective in plants including grapevine, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. Here we present the high-resolution cryo-EM structure of the GFLV-Nb23 complex which provides the basis for the molecular recognition by the nanobody. The structure reveals a composite binding site bridging over 3 domains of the capsid protein (CP) monomer. The structure provides a precise mapping of the Nb23 epitope on the GFLV capsid in which the antigen loop is accommodated through an induced fit mechanism. Moreover, we uncover and characterize several resistance-breaking GFLV isolates with amino acids mapping within this epitope, including C-terminal extensions of the CP, which would sterically interfere with Nb binding. Escape variants with such extended CP fail to be transmitted by nematodes linking Nb-mediated resistance to vector transmission. Together, these data provide insights into the molecular mechanism of Nb23-mediated recognition of GFLV and of virus resistance loss.

Significance

Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) is a picorna-like plant virus that severely impacts vineyards worldwide. While Nanobodies (Nb) confer resistance to GFLV in plants the underlying molecular mechanism of action is unknown. Here we present the high-resolution cryo-EM structure of the GFLV-Nb complex. It uncovers the conformational epitope on the capsid surface which is a composite binding site into which the antigen loop is accommodated through an induced fit mechanism. Furthermore, we describe several resistance-breaking isolates of GFLV with reduced Nb binding capacity. Those that carry a C-terminal extension also fail to be transmitted by nematodes. Together, these data provide structure-function insights into the Nb-GFLV recognition and the molecular mechanism leading to loss of resistance.
Large-scale pan-cancer analysis reveals broad prognostic association between TGF-β ligands, not Hedgehog, and GLI1/2 expression in tumors
Authors: de Reyniès Aurélien , Javelaud Delphine , Elarouci Nabila , Marsaud Véronique , Gilbert Cristèle , Mauviel Alain
Published: August 2019

GLI1expression is broadly accepted as a marker of Hedgehog pathway activation in tumors. Efficacy of Hedgehog inhibitors is essentially limited to tumors bearing activating mutations of the pathway. GLI2, a critical Hedgehog effector, is necessary forGLI1expression and is a direct transcriptional target of TGF-β/SMAD signaling. We examined the expression correlations of GLI1/2 withTGFBandHHgenes in 152 distinct transcriptome datasets totaling over 23,500 patients and representing 37 types of neoplasms. Their prognostic value was measured in over 15,000 clinically annotated tumor samples from 26 tumor types. In most tumor types,GLI1andGLI2follow a similar pattern of expression and are equally correlated withHHandTGFBgenes. However,GLI1/2broadly share prognostic value withTGFBgenes and a mesenchymal/EMT signature, not withHHgenes. Our results provide a likely explanation for the frequent failure of anti-Hedgehog therapies in tumors, as they suggest a key role for TGF-β, not Hedgehog, ligands, in tumors with elevatedGLI1/2-expression.
Density-dependent effects of mortality on the optimal body size of a habitat shift: Why smaller is better despite increased mortality risk?
Authors: Chaparro-Pedraza P. Catalina , de Roos André M.
Published: August 2019

Many animal species across different taxa change their habitat during their development. An ontogenetic habitat shift enables the development of early vulnerable-to-predation stages in a safe ‘nursery’ habitat with reduced predation mortality, while less vulnerable stages can exploit a more risky, rich feeding habitat. Therefore, the timing of the habitat shift is crucial for individual fitness. We investigate the effect that size-selectivity in mortality in the rich feeding habitat has on the optimal timing of the habitat shift using a population model and the adaptive dynamics approach. We show that the size-selective nature of mortality in this habitat affects density-dependent body growth rate in the nursery habitat and thus the optimal timing of the habitat shift. This is caused by the effect exerted by size-dependent mortality on the size distribution of the population that results in strong competition in the nursery habitat. We furthermore find that, as a consequence of this effect, increased size-selectivity in mortality in the rich feeding habitat causes the optimal body size to shift habitat to decrease. Our results reveal the interdependence between population structure and life history traits, and highlight the need for integrating ecological interactions in the study of the evolution of life histories.
Complete genome assemblies for three variants of the Wolbachia endosymbiont of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Basting Preston J. , Bergman Casey M.
Published: August 2019

Here we report genome assemblies for three strains of Wolbachia pipientis assembled from unenriched, unfiltered long-read shotgun sequencing data of geographically distinct strains of Drosophila melanogaster. Our simple methodology can be applied to long-read datasets of other Wolbachia-infected species to produce complete assemblies for this important model symbiont.
AAV-mediated gene augmentation therapy restores critical functions in mutant iPSC-derived PRPF31+/- cells
Authors: Brydon Elizabeth M. , Bronstein Revital , Buskin Adriana , Lako Majlinda , Pierce Eric A. , Fernandez-Godino Rosario
Published: August 2019

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common form of inherited vision loss and is characterized by degeneration of retinal photoreceptor cells and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Mutations in pre-mRNA processing factor 31 (PRPF31) cause dominant RP via haploinsufficiency with incomplete penetrance. There is good evidence that the diverse severity of this disease is a result of differing levels of expression of the wild type allele among patients. Thus, we hypothesize that PRPF31-related RP will be amenable to treatment by adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene augmentation therapy. To test this hypothesis, we used induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) with mutations in PRPF31 and differentiated them into RPE cells. The mutant PRPF31 iPSC-RPE cells recapitulate the cellular phenotype associated with the PRPF31 pathology, including defective cell structure, diminished phagocytic function, defects in ciliogenesis, and compromised barrier function. Treatment of the mutant PRPF31 iPSC-RPE cells with AAV-PRPF31 restored normal phagocytosis and cilia formation, and partially restored structure and barrier function. These results provide proof-of concept that AAV-based gene therapy can be used to treat patients with PRPF31-related RP.
A Sense of Place: Transcriptomics Identifies Environmental Signatures in Cabernet Sauvignon Berry Skins in the Late Stages of Ripening
Authors: Cramer Grant R. , Cochetel Noé , Ghan Ryan , Destrac-Irvine Agnès , Delrot Serge
Published: August 2019

Background

Grape berry ripening is influenced by climate, the main component of the “terroir” of a place. Light and temperature are major factors in the vineyard that affect berry development and fruit metabolite composition.

Results

To better understand the effect of “place” on transcript abundance during the late stages of berry ripening, Cabernet Sauvignon berries grown in Bordeaux and Reno were compared at similar sugar levels (19 to 26 °Brix (total soluble solids)). Day temperatures were warmer and night temperatures were cooler in Reno. °Brix was lower in Bordeaux berries compared to Reno at maturity levels considered optimum for harvest. RNA-Seq analysis identified 5528 differentially expressed genes between Bordeaux and Reno grape skins at 22°Brix. Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis for all expressed transcripts for all four °Brix levels measured indicated that the majority (75%) of transcript expression differed significantly between the two locations. Top gene ontology categories for the common transcript sets were translation, photosynthesis, DNA metabolism and catabolism. Top gene ontology categories for the differentially expressed genes at 22°Brix involved response to stimulus, biosynthesis and response to stress. Some differentially expressed genes encoded terpene synthases, cell wall enzymes, kinases, transporters, transcription factors and photoreceptors. Most circadian clock genes had higher transcript abundance in Bordeaux. Bordeaux berries had higher transcript abundance with differentially expressed genes associated with seed dormancy, light, auxin, ethylene signaling, powdery mildew infection, phenylpropanoid, carotenoid and terpenoid metabolism, whereas Reno berries were enriched with differentially expressed genes involved in water deprivation, cold response, ABA signaling and iron homeostasis.

Conclusions

Transcript abundance profiles in the berry skins at maturity were highly dynamic. RNA-Seq analysis identified a smaller (25% of total) common core set of ripening genes that appear not to depend on rootstock, vineyard management, plant age, soil and climatic conditions. Much of the gene expression differed between the two locations and could be associated with multiple differences in environmental conditions that may have affected the berries in the two locations; some of these genes may be potentially controlled in different ways by the vinegrower to adjust final berry composition and reach a desired result.
Small molecule sequestration of amyloid-β as a drug discovery strategy for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Heller Gabriella T. , Aprile Francesco A. , Michaels Thomas C. T. , Limbocker Ryan , Perni Michele , Ruggeri Francesco Simone , Mannini Benedetta , Löhr Thomas , Bonomi Massimiliano , Camilloni Carlo , De Simone Alfonso , Felli Isabella C. , Pierattelli Roberta , Knowles Tuomas P. J. , Dobson Christopher M. , Vendruscolo Michele
Published: August 2019

Disordered proteins are challenging therapeutic targets, and no drug is currently in clinical use that has been shown to modify the properties of their monomeric states. Here, we identify a small molecule capable of binding and sequestering the amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) in its monomeric, soluble state. Our analysis reveals that this compound interacts with Aβ and inhibits both the primary and secondary nucleation pathways in its aggregation process. We characterise this interaction using biophysical experiments and integrative structural ensemble determination methods. We thus observe that this small molecule has the remarkable effect of increasing the conformational entropy of monomeric Aβ while decreasing its hydrophobic surface area. We then show that this small molecule rescues a Caenorhabditis elegans model of Aβ-associated toxicity in a manner consistent with the mechanism of action identified from the in silico and in vitro studies. These results provide an illustration of the strategy of targeting the monomeric states of disordered proteins with small molecules to alter their behaviour for therapeutic purposes.
Volatile molecules secreted by the wheat pathogenParastagonospora nodorumare involved in development and phytotoxicity
Authors: Muria-Gonzalez M. Jordi , Yeannie Yap Hui Yeng , Breen Susan , Mead Oliver , Wang Chen , Chooi Yit-Heng , Barrow Russell A. , Solomon Peter S.
Published: August 2019

Septoria nodorum blotch is a major disease of wheat caused by the fungusParastagonospora nodorum. Recent studies have demonstrated that secondary metabolites, including polyketides and non-ribosomal peptides, produced by the pathogen play important roles in disease and development. However, there is currently no knowledge on the composition or biological activity of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) secreted byP. nodorum. To address this, we undertook a series of growth and phytotoxicity assays and demonstrated thatP. nodorumVOCs inhibited bacterial growth, were phytotoxic and suppressed self-growth. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that 3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methyl-1-propanol and 2-phenylethanol were dominant in the VOC mixture and phenotypic assays using these short chain alcohols confirmed that they were phytotoxic. Further analysis of the VOCs also identified the presence of multiple sesquiterpenes of which four were identified via mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance as β-elemene, α-cyperone, eudesma-4,11-diene and acora-4,9-diene. Subsequent reverse genetics studies were able to link these molecules to corresponding sesquiterpene synthases in theP. nodorumgenome. However, despite extensive testing, these molecules were not involved in either of the growth inhibition or phytotoxicity phenotypes previously observed. Plant assays using mutants of the pathogen lacking the synthetic genes revealed that the identified sesquiterpenes were not required for disease formation on wheat leaves. Collectively, these data have significantly extended our knowledge of the VOCs in fungi and provided the basis for further dissecting the roles of sesquiterpenes in plant disease.
Difference in context-dependency between orienting and defense-like responses induced by the superior colliculus
Authors: Isa Kaoru , Sooksawate Thongchai , Kobayashi Kenta , Kobayashi Kazuto , Redgrave Peter , Isa Tadashi
Published: August 2019

Previous electrical stimulation and lesion experiments have suggested that the crossed descending output pathway from the deeper layers (SCd) of superior colliculus (SC) controls orienting responses, while the uncrossed pathway mediates defense-like behavior. Here we extended these investigations by using selective optogenetic activation of each pathway in mice with channelrhodopsin 2 expression by double viral vector techniques. Brief photo-stimulation of the crossed pathway evoked short latency contraversive orienting-like head turns, while extended stimulation induced contraversive circling responses. In contrast, stimulation of uncrossed pathway induced short-latency upward head movements followed by longer-latency defense-like behaviors including retreat and flight. The novel discovery was that the evoked defense-like responses varied depending on the environment, suggesting that uncrossed output can be influenced by top-down modification of the SC or its downstream. This further suggests that the SCd-defense system can be profoundly modulated by non-motor, affective and cognitive components, in addition to direct sensory inputs.
Differential detection of Entamoeba species in stool samples collected from children in District Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
Authors: Khan Muhammad Iftikhar , Shams Sumaira , Khan Asar , Akbar Ali , Muhammad Ijaz , Ullah Atta , Inam Muhammad , Ali Abid
Published: August 2019

Background

Amoebiasis is an intestinal disease caused by enteric protozoan called Entamoeba histolytica belongs to the Genus Entamoeba. The main reason of infection is the contamination of food and water due to the poor sanitation. Among Entamoeba species, Entamoeba histolytica is highly pathogenic while the other species are non-pathogenic and needs no medical treatment.

Methodology

A total of 400 stool samples were collected from different areas of district Swat and were processed for screening of amoebic cells. Microscopically identified samples containing amoebic cells were stored at −20 °C till DNA extraction. Extracted DNA was used in a PCR reaction with specific reference primers to amplify the target DNA.

Results

Out of all 400 stool samples 111 (27.7%) were found positive through microscopy while PCR reaction confirmed 80 out of microscope positive samples. Among 80 PCR positive samples, the infection with Entamoeba dispar was most common (57.5%) followed by E. histolytica (47.5%) and Entamoeba moshkovskii (20%). The positive cases for mono-infection of E. dispar were 33 (41.25%), followed by E.histolytica 25 (31.25%) and E. moshkovskii 7 (8.75%). The co-infection of E. histolytica with E. dispar and E. moshkovskii was 6 (7.5%) and 2 (2.5%), respectively. Similarly the co-infection of Entamoeba dispar with Entamoeba moshkovskii was also 2 (2.5%) while 5 (6.25%) samples were observed with mixed infection of E. histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii.

Significance of the study

The aim of the study was to detect and differentiate the E. histolytica, Entamoeba dispar and Entamoeba moshkovskii using conventional microscopy and polymerase chain reaction. The results suggested that the use of PCR is necessary to differentiate E. histolytica from E. dispar and E. moshkovskii and therefore, to avoid unnecessary treatment the present study recommend the use of PCR for the routine diagnosis of amoebiasis in the study area. It is also suggested that further studies from this area may also facilitate the understanding of genetic diversity of these pathogens.
Pyk2 in D1 receptor-expressing neurons of the nucleus accumbens modulates the acute locomotor effects of cocaine
Authors: de Pins Benoit , Montalban Enrica , Vanhoutte Peter , Giralt Albert , Girault Jean-Antoine
Published: August 2019

The striatum is a critical brain region for locomotor response to cocaine. Although the D1 receptor-expressing neurons are centrally involved in mediating the locomotor effects of cocaine, the molecular pathways controlling this response are not fully understood. Here we studied the role of Pyk2, a non-receptor calcium-dependent protein-tyrosine kinase, in striatum-related functions. We discovered that cocaine injection increases Pyk2 phosphorylation in the striatum of mice in vivo. Pyk2-deficient mice displayed an altered locomotor response to acute cocaine injection. In contrast, they developed normal locomotor sensitization and cocaine-conditioned place preference. Accordingly, a cocaine-activated signaling pathway essential for these late responses, ERK phosphorylation, was not altered. Specific deletion of Pyk2 in the nucleus accumbens or in D1 neurons reproduced this phenotype, whereas deletion of Pyk2 in the dorsal striatum or in A2A receptor-expressing neurons did not. Mice lacking Pyk2 in D1-neurons also displayed lower locomotor response to the D1 receptor agonist SKF-81297 but not to an anticholinergic drug. Our results identify Pyk2 as a regulator of acute locomotor responses to psychostimulants and suggest that changes in Pyk2 expression or activation may alter specific responses to drugs of abuse, or possibly other behavioral responses linked to dopamine action.
Domain model explains propagation dynamics and stability of K27 and K36 methylation landscapes
Authors: Alabert C. , Loos C. , Voelker-Albert M. , Graziano S. , Forné I. , Reveron-Gomez N. , Schuh L. , Hasenauer J. , Marr C. , Imhof A. , Groth A.
Published: August 2019

Chromatin states must be maintained during cell proliferation to uphold cellular identity and genome integrity. Inheritance of histone modifications is central in this process. However, the histone modification landscape is challenged by incorporation of new unmodified histones during each cell cycle and the principles governing heritability remain unclear. Here, we take a quantitative computational modeling approach to describes propagation of K27 and K36 methylation states. We measure combinatorial K27 and K36 methylation patterns by quantitative mass spectrometry on subsequent generations of histones. Using model comparison, we reject active global demethylation and invoke the existence of domains defined by distinct methylation endpoints. We find that K27me3 on pre-existing histones stimulates the rate of de novo K27me3 establishment, supporting a read-write mechanism in timely chromatin restoration. Finally, we provide a detailed, quantitative picture of the mutual antagonism between K27 and K37 methylation, and propose that it stabilizes epigenetic states across cell division.
Construction of SnS2–SnO2 heterojunctions decorated on graphene nanosheets with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic performance
Authors: Huang Ruting , Wu Chenghao , Huang Shoushuang , Chen Dayong , Zhang Qian , Wang Qing , Hu Zhangjun , Jiang Yong , Zhao Bing , Chen Zhiwen
Published: August 2019

Heterostructures formed by the growth of one kind of nanomaterial in/on another have attracted increasing attention due to their microstructural characteristics and potential applications. In this work, SnS2–SnO2 heterostructures were successfully prepared by a facile hydrothermal method. Due to the enhanced visible-light absorption and efficient separation of photo-generated holes and electrons, the SnS2–SnO2 heterostructures display excellent photocatalytic performance for the degradation of rhodamine (RhB) under visible-light irradiation. Additionally, it is found that the introduction of graphene into the heterostructures further improved photocatalytic activity and stability. In particular, the optimized SnS2–SnO2/graphene photocatalyst can degrade 97.1% of RhB within 60 min, which is about 1.38 times greater than that of SnS2–SnO2 heterostructures. This enhanced photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the high surface area and the excellent electron accepting and transporting properties of graphene, which served as an acceptor of the generated electrons to suppress charge recombination. These results provide a new insight for the design and development of hybrid photocatalysts.
Seeking an ecologically defensible calculation of net loss/gain of biodiversity
Authors: Cuckston Thomas
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain how proponents of biodiversity offsetting have sought to produce an ecologically defensible mechanism for reconciling economic development and biodiversity conservation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses a case study biodiversity offsetting mechanism in New South Wales, Australia. Michel Callon’s framing and overflowing metaphor is used to explain how accounting devices are brought into the mechanism, to (re)frame a space of calculability and address anxieties expressed by conservationists about calculations of net loss/gain of biodiversity.

Findings

The analysis shows that the offsetting mechanism embeds a form of accounting for biodiversity that runs counter to the prevailing dominant anthropocentric approach. Rather than accounting for the biodiversity of a site in terms of the economic benefits it provides to humans, the mechanism accounts for biodiversity in terms of its ecological value. This analysis, therefore, reveals a form of accounting for biodiversity that uses numbers to provide valuations of biodiversity, but these numbers are ecological numbers, not economic numbers. So this is a calculative, and also ecocentric, approach to accounting for, and valuing, biodiversity.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the extant literature on accounting for biodiversity by revealing a novel conceptualisation of the reconciliation of economic development and biodiversity conservation, producing an ecologically defensible form of sustainable development. The paper also makes a methodological contribution by showing how Callon’s framing and overflowing metaphor can be used to enable the kind of interdisciplinary engagement needed for researchers to address sustainable development challenges.
Theological perspectives on accounting: worldviews don’t change overnight
Authors: McPhail Ken , Cordery Carolyn J.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the 2004 AAAJ special issue (SI): “Accounting and theology, an introduction: Initiating a dialogue between immediacy and eternity,” the relative immediate impact of the call for papers and the relevance of the theme to address issues in accounting today and in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a reflection and is framed around three different modes of engagement with new perspectives as identified by Orlikowski (2015). These are religion as phenomenon, as perspective and as a worldview. The authors draw on Burrell and Morgan’s (1979) framework in order to explore the ontological and epistemological blinkers that have limited the attempts to explore accounting from a theological perspective.

Findings

The paper argues that historical and current structures can limit the manner in which accounting research uses theological perspectives. Indeed, the concerns of the initial SI remain – that the contemporary economic and knowledge system is in crisis and alternative ways of questioning are required to understand and respond to this system.

Research limitations/implications

As a reflection, this paper is subject to limitations of author bias relating to our beliefs, ethnicities and culture. The authors have sought to reduce these by drawing on a wide range of sources, critical analysis and the input of feedback from other scholars. Nevertheless, the narrative of impact remains a continuing story.

Originality/value

In drawing on both an original SI guest editor and a scholar for whom the 2004 SI has become a touchstone and springboard, this paper provides multiple viewpoints on the issue of accounting and theology.
The disparate roles of accounting in an amateur sports organisation
Authors: Clune Conor , Boomsma Roel , Pucci Richard
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine an ongoing process of logic assimilation within an amateur sports organisation (ASO) called the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). It seeks to develop our understanding of how forms of accounting mitigated (or exacerbated) the tensions that arose among GAA members due to the consequences of the assimilation of select elements of a professional logic and a commercial logic within its traditionally dominant social welfare logic.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews were undertaken with representatives and members of the GAA to understand the effects of growing commercialisation and professionalisation on the organisation’s traditional amateur status and social mission. In particular, the authors sought to understand how accounting, in the form of financial reporting, influenced the extent of the tensions that arose. Interviews were supported by an extensive collection of podcasts and news articles that discussed this topic.

Findings

The paper’s findings offer unique empirical insights into the role played by forms of accounting in the maintenance of amateurism within an ASO. It reveals the conflicting role of financial reporting within the GAA whereby it was used by the GAA’s management to ease member concerns surrounding logic assimilation while simultaneously being ignored by clubs and counties to facilitate payments to managers thereby eroding the amateur status of Gaelic Games.

Originality/value

The paper is unique in its exploration of logic assimilation within a form of hybrid organisation that has previously been unexamined in the accounting literature. It extends extant understandings of how accounting influences the co-existence of potentially conflicting logics. The paper also discusses the implications of what accounting makes visible and keeps invisible on the longevity of the traditionally dominant social welfare logic within an ASO.
Accelerating parameter estimation in Doyle–Fuller–Newman model for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Reddy Sohail R. , Scharrer Matthias K. , Pichler Franz , Watzenig Daniel , Dulikravich George S.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to solve the parameter identification problem to estimate the parameters in electrochemical models of the lithium-ion battery.

Design/methodology/approach

The parameter estimation framework is applied to the Doyle-Fuller-Newman (DFN) model containing a total of 44 parameters. The DFN model is fit to experimental data obtained through the cycling of Li-ion cells. The parameter estimation is performed by minimizing the least-squares difference between the experimentally measured and numerically computed voltage curves. The minimization is performed using a state-of-the-art hybrid minimization algorithm.

Findings

The DFN model parameter estimation is performed within 14 h, which is a significant improvement over previous works. The mean absolute error for the converged parameters is less than 7 mV.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, application of a hybrid optimization framework is new in the field of electrical modelling of lithium-ion cells. This approach saves much time in parameterization of models with a high number of parameters while achieving a high-quality fit.
A MSFEM to simulate the eddy current problem in laminated iron cores in 3D
Authors: Hollaus Karl
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The simulation of eddy currents in laminated iron cores by the finite element method (FEM) is of great interest in the design of electrical devices. Modeling each laminate by finite elements leads to extremely large nonlinear systems of equations impossible to solve with present computer resources reasonably. The purpose of this study is to show that the multiscale finite element method (MSFEM) overcomes this difficulty.

Design/methodology/approach

A new MSFEM approach for eddy currents of laminated nonlinear iron cores in three dimensions based on the magnetic vector potential is presented. How to construct the MSFEM approach in principal is shown. The MSFEM with the Biot–Savart field in the frequency domain, a higher-order approach, the time stepping method and with the harmonic balance method are introduced and studied.

Findings

Various simulations demonstrate the feasibility, efficiency and versatility of the new MSFEM.

Originality/value

The novel MSFEM solves true three-dimensional eddy current problems in laminated iron cores taking into account of the edge effect.
Effects of retail organisation design on improving private label merchandising
Authors: Kim Changju , Takashima Katsuyoshi
Published: August 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine empirically whether and under what organisational design conditions retailers can benefit from private label (PL) merchandising improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

The study tests hypotheses using a structural equation model and data obtained from general merchandise managers at 190 supermarket retailers in Japan.

Findings

The results reveal that both centralised merchandising authority and store cooperation between merchandising and store divisions motivate PL merchandising improvement, which strengthens PL competitiveness. In addition, outcome-based merchandiser control strengthens the positive relationship between store cooperation and PL merchandising improvement. However, regarding centralised merchandising authority, it is found that outcome-based control had no significant moderating effect.

Research limitations/implications

To generalise the findings, it may be desirable to reflect data from store divisions for at least two constructs of interdepartmental structure and coordination. Also, it will remain a challenge to produce objective financial outcomes, such as sales, profits or market share, of PL merchandise to empirically test PL contributions to a retail store or company.

Practical implications

It is important for retail managers to understand their merchandisers’ efforts and behaviours to continuously improve PL merchandising activities. It is strongly recommended that retail managers continue to find ways to motivate their merchandisers.

Originality/value

Drawing on the philosophy of continuous improvement, this study suggests a novel approach to retail merchandising management that investigates how organisational design can influence better PL merchandising. To highlight the growing role of retail merchandisers, often ignored in the PL literature, this study advances this knowledge about the organisational design–strategic behaviour linkage by empirically testing interactions between different aspects of retail organisation design.
The influence of political candidate brands during the 2012 and 2016 US presidential elections
Authors: Van Steenburg Eric , Guzmán Francisco
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether voters consider a candidate’s brand image when evaluating election alternatives. That is, how prominent a role does the candidate brand image have in the decision-making process? As election outcomes are behavior-driven, the goal is to examine the potential relationship between the candidate brand image, the self-brand image and voting intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected for the third week of October 2012 and again for the same time in 2016 – three weeks prior to the US presidential election each year. An online-based nationwide survey was leveraged, followed by correlation, regression and mediation analysis.

Findings

Candidate brand image has a role in US presidential elections. In addition, candidate brand image and self-brand image are significantly related to voting intention. In both elections, the losing candidate’s brand image was more of a factor when it came to voting intention, as both candidates’ brand image mediated the relationships between self-brand image and voting intention for all voters.

Research limitations/implications

A link between candidate brand image and voting intention was demonstrated for perhaps the first time. With results showing candidate brand image does relate to the voter’s self-brand image and voting intention, future research should investigate what other brand elements are a factor. There are undoubtedly other factors – some branding-related, others not branding-related – that go into voter decision-making. Because results were stronger for a losing candidate than a winning one, research should also examine whether this occurrence was coincidence or consistent voter behavior.

Practical implications

When voters considered who might best represent themselves, the brand image of the candidate enhanced the likelihood of voting for, or against, the candidate. Therefore, it is highly recommended that campaign managers understand not only the importance of their candidate’s brand image to develop and maintain a positive image among their supporters but also how to highlight what their supporters view as the negative aspects of the opposing candidates’ brand image to increase the lack of affinity for competitors.

Originality/value

This research demonstrates, for the first time, that candidates’ brand image is considered by voters in a US presidential election. In addition, it discovers the role candidate brand image plays in voting intention. Finally, it provides direction for campaign managers to conduct research into candidates as brands to build brand relationships with the electorate.