bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ciliomotor circuitry underlying whole-body coordination of ciliary activity in thePlatynereislarva
Authors: Verasztó Csaba , Ueda Nobuo , Bezares-Calderón Luis A. , Panzera Aurora , Williams Elizabeth A. , Shahidi Réza , Jékely Gáspár
Published: February 2017

Ciliated surfaces harbouring synchronously beating cilia can generate fluid flow or drive locomotion. In ciliary swimmers, ciliary beating, arrests, and changes in beat frequency are often coordinated across extended or discontinuous surfaces. To understand how such coordination is achieved, we studied the ciliated larvae ofPlatynereis dumerilii, a marine annelid.Platynereislarvae have segmental multiciliated cells that regularly display spontaneous coordinated ciliary arrests. We used whole-body connectomics, activity imaging, transgenesis, and neuron ablation to characterize the ciliomotor circuitry. We identified cholinergic, serotonergic, and catecholaminergic ciliomotor neurons. The synchronous rhythmic activation of cholinergic cells drives the coordinated arrests of all cilia. The serotonergic cells are active when cilia are beating. Serotonin inhibits the cholinergic rhythm, and increases ciliary beat frequency. Based on their connectivity and alternating activity, the catecholaminergic cells may generate the rhythm. The ciliomotor circuitry thus constitutes a stop-and-go pacemaker system for the whole-body coordination of ciliary locomotion.
Single cell transcriptome analysis of human pancreas reveals transcriptional signatures of aging and somatic mutation patterns
Authors: Enge Martin , Arda H. Efsun , Mignardi Marco , Beausang John , Bottino Rita , Kim Seung K. , Quake Stephen R.
Published: February 2017

As organisms age, cells accumulate genetic and epigenetic changes that eventually lead to impaired organ function or catastrophic transformation such as cancer. Since aging appears to be a stochastic process of increasing disorder1 cells in an organ will be individually affected in different ways - thus rendering bulk analyses of postmitotic adult tissues difficult to characterize. Here we directly measure the effects of aging in primary human tissue by performing single-cell transcriptome analysis of 2544 human pancreas cells from eight donors spanning six decades of life. We find that islet cells from older donors have increased levels of molecular disorder as measured both by noise in the transcriptome and by the number of cells which display inappropriate hormone expression, revealing a transcriptional instability associated with aging. By further analyzing the spectrum of somatic mutations in single cells, we found a specific age-dependent mutational signature characterized by C to A and C to G transversions. These mutations are indicators of oxidative stress and the signature is absent in single cells from human brain tissue or in a tumor cell line. We have used the single cell measurements of transcriptional noise and mutation level to identify molecular pathways correlated with these changes that could influence human disease. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using single-cell RNA-seq data from primary cells to derive meaningful insights into the genetic processes that operate on aging human tissue and to determine molecular mechanisms coordinated with these processes.
Crystal structure of 1-methylimidazole 3-oxide monohydrate
Authors: Frampton Christopher S. , Murray James I. , Spivey Alan C.
Published: February 2017

1-Methylimidazole 3-N-oxide (NMI-O) crystallizes as a monohydrate, C4H6N2O·H2O, in the monoclinic space groupP21withZ′ = 2 (moleculesAandB). The imidazole rings display a planar geometry (r.m.s. deviations = 0.0008 and 0.0002 Å) and are linked in the crystal structure into infinite zigzag strands of ...NMI-O(A)...OH2...NMI-O(B)...OH2... units by O—H...O hydrogen bonds. These chains propagate along theb-axis direction of the unit cell.
Crystal structure and solvent-dependent behaviours of 3-amino-1,6-diethyl-2,5,7-trimethyl-4,4-diphenyl-3a,4a-diaza-4-bora-s-indacene
Authors: Yang Lijing , Drew Brett , Yalagala Ravi Shekar , Chaviwala Rameez , Simionescu Razvan , Lough Alan J. , Yan Hongbin
Published: February 2017

In the title compound (3-amino-4,4-diphenyl-BODIPY), C28H32BN3, the central six-membered ring has a flattened sofa conformation, with one of the N atoms deviating by 0.142 (4) Å from the mean plane of the other five atoms, which have an r.m.s. deviation of 0.015 Å. The dihedral angle between the two essentially planar outer five-membered rings is 8.0 (2)°. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaweak N—H...π interactions, forming chains along [010]. The compound displays solvent-dependent behaviours in both NMR and fluorescence spectroscopy. In the1H NMR spectra, the aliphatic resonance signals virtually coalesce in solvents such as chloroform, dichloromethane and dibromoethane; however, they are fully resolved in solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), methanol and toluene. The excitation and fluorescence intensities in chloroform decreased significantly over time, while in DMSO the decrease is not so profound. In toluene, the excitation and fluorescent intensities are not time-dependent. This behaviour is presumably attributed to the assembly of 3-amino-4,4-diphenyl-BODIPY in solution that leads to the formation of noncovalent structures, while in polar or aromatic solvents, the formation of these assemblies is disrupted, leading to resolution of signals in the NMR spectra.
L-Glutaminium 4-methylbenzenesulfonate
Authors: Thayanithi V. , Kumar P. Praveen , Gunasekaran B.
Published: February 2017

The asymmetric unit of the title salt, C5H10NO4+·C7H7O3S−, contains two glutaminium cations and two 4-methylbenzenesulfonate anions. The crystal packing features weak intermolecular C—H...O, O—H...O and N—H...O hydrogen bonds.
2-(4-Methylphenyl)-2-oxoethyl 3,4-dimethoxybenzoate
Authors: Kumar Shamantha , Chandra  , Rajesh B. M. , Mahendra M. , Doreswamy B. H.
Published: February 2017

In the title compound, C18H18O5, the dihedral angle between the mean planes of the two aromatic rings is 66.55 (8)°. The crystal packing features by intermolecular C—H...O contacts.
Tetrakis(μ-benzoato-κ2O:O′)bis[(piperidine-κN)rhodium]
Authors: Selent Detlef , Drexler Hans-Joachim
Published: February 2017

The title compound, [Rh2(C7H5O2)4(C5H11N)2], an adduct of dimeric rhodium(II) benzoate with piperidine, was prepared. The complex lies across an inversion centre with the unique RhIIion in a slightly distorted octahedral coordination environment.
Factors impacting the adoption of m-banking: understanding brand India’s potential for financial inclusion
Authors: Deb Madhurima , Agrawal Aarti
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study has been to understand brand India’s potential for financial inclusion in the future. As, digital channels like mobile banking (m-banking) are likely to provide better coverage and more cost-effective services to the unbanked population of India. Conventional banking might not be cost-effective for low-ticket-size transactions, hence financial inclusion, which is on the “Digital India” agenda of the Government of India (GoI), might not be feasible. However, to understand brand India’s potential for financial inclusion in the future, it would be essential to understand Indian customers’ attitudes toward m-banking, especially those who have not yet adopted it. This would bring out the potential of m-banking as a channel to drive financial inclusion based on customers’ intentions to adopt it. Until every Indian has access to a wider range of financial services, there cannot be financial inclusion. Similarly, until every Indian adopts digital channels to access a wider range of financial and non-financial services, the GoI’s initiatives for “Digital India” cannot be realized. Furthermore, a review of the literature suggests that there are very few studies concerning m-banking worldwide and still fewer in the context of India.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study used IBM SPSS and Amos software to test the conceptual model developed using secondary data.

Findings

The findings of the study suggest that subjective norm, output quality and personal innovativeness have impacts on the perceived usefulness of, and attitudes toward, the ultimate adoption of m-banking.

Originality/value

The paper is the original work of the authors. An attempt has been made to integrate all the existing literature on m-banking to develop a complete model for the technology’s adoption.
Design-oriented strategy typology and innovation framework
Authors: Hsu Yen
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Using Taiwanese enterprises that produce computer and consumer electronics products as case subjects, this study aims to explore the effective product innovation strategies applied to cope with competition in the global market and develop a competitive advantage. The product design strategies and methods of companies that used different types of innovation strategies were then analyzed. Finally, a mapping framework for product innovation and design strategies was proposed for enterprises in the computer and consumer electronics industry in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

The two stages of this study were a questionnaire survey and case studies. Stage 1: A questionnaire survey and literature review were performed to explore the innovation strategies used by companies in the Taiwanese computer and consumer electronics industry. The purpose of the literature review was to determine the definitions and content of innovation strategies. Stage 2: Design and R&D managers were interviewed to explore the practical design strategies and approaches to product design in the industry.

Findings

These four innovation strategies and ways of product design are closely related to the scale, business type and product development conditions in enterprises. Notably, different innovation strategies have different approaches to product design. Generally, product design emphasizes “new experience” in aggressive innovation enterprises, “new value” in market innovation enterprises, “new service” in technical innovation enterprises and “new positioning” in opportunity innovation enterprises. The findings of this study provide a reference for product R&D and design in enterprises.

Originality/value

In recent years, the global market of computer and consumer electronic products has been fiercely competitive. Therefore, only enterprises that can innovate, respond rapidly and maintain advantages in product design can survive in the market. Hopefully, this case study of companies in the Taiwan computer and consumer electronic industry can provide a reference for product R&D and design. The findings of this study provide a reference for product R&D and design in enterprises, especially the Chinese market.
The application and barriers of BIM in sustainable building design
Authors: Oduyemi Olufolahan , Okoroh Michael Iheoma , Fajana Oluwaseun Samuel
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and rank the benefits and barriers (technological and non-technological) of using Building Information Modelling (BIM) in sustainable building design. It also employs the use of a design tool analysis of a case study using BIM compatible tools (Ecotect and Green Building Studio) to determine the environmental performance of a proposed multi-use building at Derby North.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores the benefits and barriers of using BIM through a literature review. Regression and factor analysis were used to rank these benefits and barriers. A questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 120 practitioners with 69 completing the survey. Finally, the paper employs the use of a design tool analysis of a case study using BIM-compatible tools (Ecotect and Green Building Studio) to determine the environmental performance of a proposed multi-use building at Derby North riverside.

Findings

The key findings of the statistical analysis indicated that professionals ranked the integrated project delivery as the most established benefit, while the lack of interoperability was ranked the greatest technological challenge. Only three of the attributes of non-technological challenges made statistically unique contributions, namely, training costs and software costs, client demand and potential legal issues. It was also discovered that BIM delivers information needed for environmental performance. In a forward-looking approach, the paper attempts to provide some recommendations that would encourage the continuous application of BIM in sustainable building design.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not cover all features of BIM functionality, as the scope of BIM is very enormous and the resources of this research were limited.

Practical implications

The implication of the study is that it will assist in exploring and ranking the benefits and barriers (technological and non-technological) of using BIM while proffering recommendations for future use. This research will be of interest to industry practitioners and academic researchers with an interest in building information modelling.

Originality/value

This paper contributes with new outlooks aimed at syndicating sustainability with environmental performance and adds to the limited empirical studies on the benefits and barriers of the application of BIM.
Evaluating maintenance budget for an AC plant under its contextual conditions
Authors: Gupta Shashank , Gupta Piyush
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Maintenance actions are initiated by the annual maintenance budget (AMB) allocated for a plant system. It ensures that the assets are kept in a healthy and reliable state. The purpose of this paper is to scientifically evaluate the AMB for an air conditioning (AC) plant system, which forms an integral part of facility management.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper estimates the AMB of an AC system for specific contextual conditions using incidence matrix of the budget influencing variables. The diagonal elements of the matrix represent the values of the budget variables, whereas the off-diagonal elements represent the degree of influence among these. The maintenance budget function is derived from this matrix and is used to evaluate the AMB for the AC system as a percentage of its asset replacement value (ARV).

Findings

The AMB for the AC plant system considered in the work is evaluated as 11.1 per cent of ARV for the conditions unique to its context. The actual maintenance expenditure is lower by 7.6 per cent than the estimated value of the budget.

Research limitations/implications

The results of the methodology are a good guide for practicing facility managers. The shortcoming of the methodology is that it relies on fixed weights of the inter-relations among the budget variables, which may not be necessarily true.

Practical implications

This approach is expected to aid the maintenance managers in envisaging the AMB for their plant systems which operate under contextual conditions specific to their plant.

Originality/value

There is no evidence to indicate existence of maintenance budget evaluation methodology for an AC plant system based on its contextual conditions. This paper attempts to fill this gap.
Participation in clinical trials improves outcomes in women's health: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nijjar SK , D'Amico MI , Wimalaweera NA , Cooper NAM , Zamora J , Khan KS
Published: February 2017

Background

Previous reviews examining the effect of participation in trials on outcomes have not consistently shown benefit. Obstetrics and gynaecology is a unique disease area posing challenges for both researchers and patients.

Objectives

To determine whether participation in randomised controlled trials (RCTs), compared with non‐participation, has a beneficial effect on women's health.

Search strategy

Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and PsycInfo were searched up to December 2015.

Selection criteria

We selected studies that reported the same clinical outcomes for participants in a women's health RCT and a comparable non‐participant cohort.

Data collection and analysis

Data were extracted on quality, characteristics and study results. Outcomes were compared using logistic regression.

Main results

There were 21 relevant studies (20 160 women, 4759 outcome events). Trial participants, compared with non‐participants, had 25% better odds of improved outcomes on average (OR 0.75; 95% CI 0.64–0.87; I2 = 64.3%). The beneficial effect of participating in a trial was larger in comparisons where: RCTs were of high quality (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.50–0.76) versus low (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.74–1.16); and RCT intervention was not available to non‐participants (OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.47–0.69) versus when it was (OR 1.13; 95% CI 0.89–1.44). The effect of trial participation was not influenced by effect size within the RCT (P = 0.48), whether funding was received or not (P = 0.13), whether non‐participants received any treatment or not (P = 0.49), and the quality of the comparison of RCT participants with non‐participants (P = 0.88).

Conclusions

Women participating in RCTs on average experienced better outcomes compared with those outside trials.

Tweetable abstract

Participants in obstetric and gynaecology RCTs experience better outcomes compared with non‐participants.
Public Preferences and Willingness to Pay for Forest Disease Control in the UK
Authors: Sheremet Oleg , Healey John R. , Quine Christopher P. , Hanley Nick
Published: February 2017

Invasive pests and diseases in trees impose a range of costs on society related to reductions in timber values, impacts on recreational opportunities and effects on forest biodiversity. These costs need to be considered when assessing control options and developing public policy. We investigate the preferences and willingness to pay of the UK general public for a range of forest disease control measures using a choice experiment with a sample of 605 people. Respondents were relatively well informed about general tree disease‐related issues, such as causes and general measures to minimise the risk of disease spread. They were less knowledgeable about specific tree diseases, with Dutch elm disease and chalara ash dieback being the most well known. We find that disease control programmes in publicly‐owned forests and forests owned by charitable trusts are more likely to be supported by the public than equivalent control programmes in privately‐owned and/or commercial forests. The nature of scientific uncertainty about diseases does not affect peoples’ preferences for disease control measures significantly. Higher respondent income, greater ex‐ante knowledge about tree diseases, and more frequent visits to forests are correlated with greater willingness to support publicly‐funded tree disease control programmes in forests. Better knowledge about tree diseases also improves the clarity of respondents’ choices. We find a negative sentiment against some disease control measures, such as clear felling of a forest, and chemical or biocide spraying. We conclude that there is significant public support for part‐financing forest disease control policies in the UK, but that this is conditional on forest ownership and the type of control measures used.
Long‐Term Safety and Efficacy of Bixalomer in Hyperphosphatemic Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease Not on Dialysis
Authors: Akizawa Tadao , Tsukada Junko , Kameoka Chisato , Kuroishi Kentarou , Yamaguchi Yusuke
Published: February 2017

Bixalomer, a metal‐free, nonabsorbable phosphate binder, is approved in Japan to treat hyperphosphatemia in dialysis patients. Bixalomer is effective and has a favorable safety profile in predialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia. This study examined the long‐term effectiveness and safety of bixalomer in predialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia. This was a 48‐week, multicenter, open‐label, phase 3 study in Japanese predialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia. Patients received bixalomer at an initial dose of 1500 mg/day, which was titrated to a maximum of 7500 mg/day depending on patients’ serum phosphorus responses to bixalomer. A total of 105 patients received bixalomer treatment, and 39 completed the study. The most common reason for discontinuation was initiation of dialysis. Mean serum phosphorus concentrations decreased from 5.15 mg/dL at baseline to 4.67 mg/dL at Week 12 and then fluctuated slightly around this level until it reached 4.58 mg/dL at Week 48. The proportion of total patients achieving the target serum phosphorus concentration (≥2.5 to <4.6 mg/dL) increased after treatment to a maximum of 66.2% at Week 20 and subsequently decreased to 51.3% by Week 48. Most adverse events (AEs) occurred in the first 12 weeks of treatment. The incidence of AEs did not increase with long‐term treatment. Common AEs reported included nasopharyngitis (29.5%), constipation (19%), and upper respiratory tract inflammation (12.4%). These findings suggest that long‐term treatment with bixalomer is effective, well tolerated, and has no new safety concerns. Bixalomer may be an alternative treatment option for the long‐term management of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney diseases.
Comparison of Immunomodulatory Effects of Fresh Garlic and Black Garlic Polysaccharides on RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Li Min , Yan Yi‐Xi , Yu Qing‐Tao , Deng Yong , Wu Ding‐Tao , Wang Ying , Ge Ya‐Zhong , Li Shao‐Ping , Zhao Jing
Published: February 2017

Garlic has a long history to be used for medicine and food purposes. Black garlic, the fermented product of fresh garlic, is considered with better biological activities, such as antioxidant activity, and is developed as an increasingly popular functional food. Polysaccharides are the major components of fresh and black garlic, and immunomodulatory activity is one major pharmacological effect of polysaccharides. Therefore, chemical characteristics and immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides from fresh and black garlic are investigated and compared in vitro for the 1st time, in order to reveal their molecular and pharmacological differences. It is demonstrated that the molecular weights of polysaccharides from the 2 sources and molar ratios of monosaccharides after acid hydrolysis are greatly variant. The effects of polysaccharides from 2 sources on RAW 264.7 macrophages functions, including promotion of phagocytosis, release of NO, and expressions of several immune‐related cytokines (including interleukin [IL]‐6, IL‐10, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interferon gamma), were different from each other. The results indicated that fresh garlic polysaccharide exhibited stronger immunomodulatory activities than that of black garlic. Moreover, it is revealed that fructan might be the bioactive component in garlic and it is indicated that during the fermentation treatment, fructan constituents of garlic has degraded, and basically no immunomodulatory effect can be found in black garlic polysaccharides.
Phosphatidylethanol Detects Moderate‐to‐Heavy Alcohol Use in Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Fleming Michael Francis , Smith Matthew J. , Oslakovic Erika , Lucey Michael R. , Vue Jenny X. , Al‐Saden Patrice , Levitsky Josh
Published: February 2017

Background

Alcohol‐dependent liver transplantation (LT) patients who resume alcohol consumption are at risk for a number of alcohol‐related problems including liver injury and liver failure. Post‐LT patients are strongly advised to remain abstinent. However, we do not know how well this population complies due to a lack of valid methods (self‐report and/or biomarkers) to identify alcohol use. Studies suggest as many as 50% resume alcohol use within 5 years. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a new cell‐membrane phospholipid biomarker to identify alcohol use in the past 28 days. This prospective study followed 213 LT recipients at 2 U.S. liver transplant centers.

Methods

Sample included 213 LT subjects; 70.9% (n = 151/213) had a history of alcohol dependence prior to transplantation and 29.1% (n = 62/213) served as non‐alcohol‐dependent controls. Subjects participated in face‐to‐face interviews to assess alcohol use using a 30‐day calendar. The protocol called for collecting blood samples at baseline, 6‐, and 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Seventy percent (149/213) who reported no alcohol use had consistently negative PEth levels (<8 ng/ml). A total of 26.4% (57/213), 44 alcohol‐dependent patients and 13 controls, had a positive PEth test of >8 ng/ml either at baseline and/or during the follow‐up period. Alcohol‐dependent subjects (23.8%; n = 36/151) and 16.1% (n = 10/62) controls reported no alcohol use but had at least 1 positive PEth test. Of the 11.2% (24/213) post‐LT subjects who reported recent alcohol use, over half (11/24) had a positive PEth. The 13 self‐reported alcohol users with a negative PEth level reported insufficient drinking to trigger PEth formation.

Conclusions

Adoption of PEth as part of routine posttransplant care of LT recipients will enable early identification of patients at risk of alcohol use and facilitate abstinence in patients with a history of alcohol dependence and alcohol‐related liver damage.
Is there reproductive diapause in the winterform of pear psylla Cacopsyla bidens?
Authors: Madar Reut , Zamir Yalta , Litovsky Anna , Soroker Victoria
Published: February 2017

Seasonal changes in reproductive state were investigated in the pear psylla Cacopsylla bidens (Šulc), with a particular emphasis on the evaluation of reproductive diapause during autumn and winter.

Changes in reproductive status were observed in both seasons in populations living at four altitudes: 70, 300, 700 and 730 m. Winterform psylla females exhibited a period of slow ovarian development and a low mating rate. The onset, duration and extent of this period varied among the four sites but terminated synchronously, around December 20th. These changes were consistent within the same population over 3 years.

Laboratory and field data suggested that winterform female C. bidens maintain some characteristics of reproductive diapause. By manipulating photoperiod and temperature during psylla development, we showed a major role for photoperiod in the induction of a reproductive diapause‐like state. However, as observed under natural conditions, the timing of the decrease in ovarian development and mating was highly dependent on the decrease in temperature.

The fact that the initiation of reproductive activity was synchronous and highly predictable is very significant for the design of phenologically based management for this pest.
Differences in eosinophil molecular profiles between children and adults with eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Lingblom C. , Käppi T. , Bergquist H. , Bove M. , Arkel R. , Saalman R. , Wennerås C.
Published: February 2017

Background

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) afflicts both children and adults. It has been debated whether pediatric EoE and adult EoE represent different disease entities. The objectives of this study were to determine whether the blood eosinophil molecular pattern of children with EoE is (i) distinct from that of healthy children; and (ii) different from that of adults with EoE.

Methods

Blood eosinophils from children and adults with EoE, and healthy controls, were analyzed with flow cytometry regarding levels of CD23, CD44, CD54, CRTH2, FOXP3, and galectin‐10. Eosinophil FOXP3 and galectin‐10 mRNA levels were determined by qPCR. The data were analyzed using a multivariate method of pattern recognition.

Results

An eosinophil molecular pattern capable of distinguishing children with EoE from control children was identified. A smaller fraction of eosinophils from children with EoE expressed CD44 and a larger fraction expressed CRTH2 than the controls. Eosinophils from children with EoE also had higher levels of galectin‐10 mRNA and lower levels of FOXP3 mRNA. The eosinophils from children with EoE had lower levels of surface CD54 and of FOXP3 mRNA compared with the eosinophils from the adult patients. A key finding was the detection in healthy individuals of age‐related differences in the levels of several eosinophil markers.

Conclusions

Children with EoE can be distinguished from healthy children based on the molecular patterns of their blood eosinophils. Age‐related physiologic differences in eosinophil molecular patterns may partly explain the different blood eosinophil phenotypes in children vs adults with EoE.
Validation of data in the Medical Birth Registry of Norway on delivery after a previous cesarean section
Authors: Lehmann Sjur , Baghestan Elham , Børdahl Per , Ebbing Marta , Irgens Lorentz , Rasmussen Svein
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Trial of labor (TOL) is an option in most deliveries after a previous cesarean section (CS). The Medical Birth Registry of Norway (MBRN) has received compulsory notification of all deliveries in the country since 1967, including data that could identify TOL in epidemiologic research. The objective of this study was to validate MBRN data for identification of TOL deliveries after a previous cesarean section (CS).

Material and methods

The MBRN provided a random national sample of 500 birth order two deliveries during 1989–2012 in women with a registered birth order one CS delivery. The reporting maternity units were asked to complete a questionnaire on data items in both deliveries, using hospital record data as the gold standard.

Results

Completed questionnaires were returned for 477 women (95.5%) with data on both deliveries. An algorithm to identify TOL using MBRN data from the birth order two delivery had a positive predictive value of 93.2%, a negative predictive value of 93.5%, a sensitivity of 96.1%, and a specificity of 88.8%. Validity of MBRN data on mode and onset of delivery, CS subtype, and planned mode of delivery is also reported.

Conclusions

MBRN data on planned and actual mode of delivery, CS subtype, and the algorithm to identify TOL in deliveries after a previous CS had satisfactory quality for a registry‐based study of TOL.
Comparative morphology of sensilla on antenna, maxillary palp and labial palp of larvae of Eucryptorrhynchus scrobiculatus (Olivier) and E. brandti (Harold) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Yang Yuchao , Ren Lili , Wang Tao , Xu Lili , Zong Shixiang
Published: February 2017

Eucryptorrhynchus scrobiculatus (Olivier) and E. brandti (Harold) are two wood boring pests of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (tree of heaven) and the variety Ailanthus altissima var. Qiantouchun. These beetles attack healthy trees and bore into roots and trunks during the larval stage. We studied the typology, distribution and morphostructure of the sensilla on the antennae, maxillary palps and labial palps of E. scrobiculatus and E. brandti larvae using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed the following: (i) the antennae of the two weevil larvae had two types of sensilla, sensilla basiconica (S.b.1 and S.b.2) and sensilla twig basiconica (S.tb.1‐S.tb.3), with S.tb.4 observed only on the antennae of E. brandti larvae; (ii) the maxillary palps had three types of sensilla, S.b.2, S.tb. (S.tb.2, S.tb.3 and S.tb.5) and digitiform sensilla; (iii) the labial palps had two types of sensilla, S.b.2 and S.tb. (S.tb.2, S.tb.3 and S.tb.5); (iv) the quantity and distribution of sensilla on the antennae, maxillary palps and labial palps remained constant between E. scrobiculatus and E. brandti larvae; and (v) sensilla basiconica had distinct sidewall pores, an apical pore was observed on sensilla twig basiconica, and digitiform sensilla were oval in shape, with a distinct apical pore. Based on the microstructure of the cuticle wall and dendrite, we hypothesized that these sensilla functioned as olfactory, gustatory and hygro‐/thermo‐receptors, respectively. We discuss the relationships among types of sensilla and the types of damage caused by the larvae inside the host tree to understand olfactory and gustatory receptor mechanisms. The results of this study will provide a firm basis for future electrophysiological studies.
Ontogenetic changes in spot configuration (numbers, circularity, size and asymmetry) and lateral line in Neurergus microspilotus (Caudata: Salamandridae)
Authors: Vaissi Somaye , Parto Paria , Sharifi Mozafar
Published: February 2017

Coloration in three of four species of the genus Neurergus including N. microspilotus is characterized by the presence of yellow spots on a dark skin, but there is no available information about changes in spot configuration, speed of development and degree of association between melanophore‐free region and the lateral line. In this study, spot numbers, spot circularity, spot size and spot asymmetry were studied during larval to adult growth in N. microspilotus during July 2012 to June 2015. The mean numbers of spots increased during the late larval stage till postmetamorphic period from 13.33 ± 3.77 to 22.53 ± 4.09 and reached 42.62 ± 4.06 in adults. At the same time, the extent of spots gradually decreased in size from 5.80 ± 1.00 to 3.57 ± 0.97 mm2 and reached 3.55 ± 1.42 mm2 in adults, but the spot circularity increased from 0.48 ± 0.23 to 0.78 ± 0.49 and reached 0.80 ± 0.15 in adults. In adults, the numbers, circularity, size and asymmetry of spots remain stable with little but non‐significant changes during the study period. Histological study shows that formation of a melanophore‐free region correlates with the development of the lateral line receptors. This study demonstrates that the effects of lateral line on chromatophores persist through middle larval stages but diminish as metamorphosis completes.
Effect of Domperidone on Apomorphine Inhibition of the Copulatory Response and Exploratory Behaviour in the Female Rat
Authors: Sietnieks Anni , Meyerson Bengt J.
Published: February 2017

The effects of domperidone, a peripheral dopamine receptor blocker which poorly crosses the blood‐brain barrier, on copulatory and exploratory behaviour were studied in apomorphine (oestrogen + progesterone) treated ovariectomized rats. The dose of domperidone (1.0 mg/kg) which clearly prevented the inhibitory action of apomorphine on the lordotic response did not influence the effect of apomorphine in an exploratory test situation. This finding indicates that peripherally (intraperitoneally) administered domperidone influences dopaminergic mechanisms implicated in the copulatory behaviour of the female rat, but not dopaminergic mechanisms involved in exploratory behaviour. The possibility that domperidone reaches the brain region responsible for the lordotic behaviour, e.g. the hypothalamus, is discussed.
Adverse Reactions to H2‐Receptor Antagonists in Denmark Before and After Transfer of Cimetidine and Ranitidine to Over‐the‐counter Status
Authors: Andersen Morten , Schou Jens S.
Published: February 2017

The H2 receptor antagonists cimetidine and ranitidine were transferred from prescription only to over‐thecounter (OTC) status in Denmark on March 27, 1989. Reports to the Danish Committee on Adverse Drug Reactions, a voluntary reporting system, have been evaluated to detect possible changes in frequency and pattern of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) caused by the altered delivery status. From the introduction of cimetidine in 1977 and until March 31, 1990, the Committee received 494 reports of 612 suspected adverse reactions to anti#x2010;ulcer drugs. The H2receptor antagonists (mainly cimetidine and ranitidine) were responsible for 548 (90%) of the ADRs. The study, which presents experience with these drugs from more than a decade and a total consumption corresponding to 65 million treatment days, confirms their excellent safety record. Serious reactions were rare, and when they occurred, reversible. During the first year with cimetidine and ranitidine available OTC no changes were seen in reporting frequency or ADR pattern which could be ascribed to OTC transfer. Only one ADR report concerning OTC cimetidine was received. This may be caused by several factors: the safety of these drugs, the fact that only very little was actually sold OTC, and a relatively low sensitivity of the voluntary reporting system.
Colchicine Inhibits Acetylcholine Receptor Stimulation of G Protein GTPase Activity in Rat Striatum
Authors: Ravindra R. , Aronstam R. S.
Published: February 2017

Colchicine, which is known to influence tubulin function, was used to delineate a possible role of tubulin in signal transduction in the rat striatal membranes. Low Km GTPase activity (EC 3.6.1.‐) was assayed in 10 µg membrane protein using [γ‐32P]GTP at 37° in an ATP‐regenerating buffer containing 1 µM unlabeled GTP. At 10 and 100 µM, colchicine inhibited the GTPase activity by 18% and 40%, respectively. Colchicine (100 µM) inhibited the enzymatic activity by 30–40% at all the time points the reaction was monitored. Acetylcholine (ACh) stimulated the low Km GTPase activity in a concentration‐dependent manner, by up to 57%. ACh‐stimulated activity was accepted as reflecting GTP hydrolysis catalyzed by receptor‐coupled transducer G proteins. In the presence of 100 µM colchicine, the ability of ACh to stimulate G protein GTPase activity was inhibited. For example, at 10 µM ACh the enzyme activity was stimulated up to 52%; in the presence of 100 µM colchicine, 10 µM ACh stimulated the activity by only up to 33%. These results suggest that colchicine disrupts ACh receptor‐G protein coupling as a result of its interaction with tubulin or G protein(s) or both.
Transfer of 137Cesium via Rat Milk: Reduction with Ammonium Ferric Hexacyanoferrate
Authors: Sundberg Johanna , Oskarsson Agneta
Published: February 2017

Dose‐dependent transfer of 137cesium (137Cs) into milk and uptake in suckling rats after a three‐day nursing period was studied. On lactation day 9, the dams were administered a single oral dose of cesium, labeled with 137cesium chloride, in six doses from 0.4 to 19.7 µg Cs/kg. In addition, one group of rats was given ammonium‐ferric(III)‐hexacyanoferrate(II) (AFCF). There was a linear dose‐dependent relationship between Cs levels in plasma and milk, as well as in whole blood and milk. The Cs milk/plasma ratios were 7 at 24 hr and 6 at 72 hr after Cs administration. Cesium concentration in milk was linearly correlated with tissue levels in suckling offspring at 72 hr. Concentration ratios of cesium in tissues between pups and their lactating dams ranged from 0.5 to 1.2. Repeated treatment with AFCF (50 mg) given orally at 24, 30, 48 and 54 hr after a single administration of 137Cs, resulted in significantly decreased Cs levels in dam's kidney, liver, lung, erythrocytes and blood at 72 hr. In addition, Cs level in milk was decreased by 40% in rats treated with AFCF. However, no effects of AFCF on Cs levels in tissues of suckling pups were observed.
Lipid Peroxidation of Rat Erythrocyte Membrane Induced by Adriamycin‐Fe3+
Authors: Miura Toshiaki , Muraoka Sanae , Ogiso Taketo
Published: February 2017

Adriamycin‐Fe3+ caused lipid peroxidation of erythrocyte membrane in relation to its concentration. Adriamycin‐Fe3+ had a high affinity for membrane and the adriamycin‐Fe3+‐binding membranes was also found to cause lipid peroxidation. Under aerobic conditions, adriamycin‐Fe3+ caused a reduction of cytochrome c and ferrous iron formed spontaneously. Superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1) (SOD) strongly inhibited the reduction of cytochrome c; however, the enzyme promoted formation of ferrous iron independent of enzymatic action. These results suggest that cytochrome c was reduced by superoxide radical (O2
−) or an adriamycin‐iron‐O2 complex such as adriamycin‐Fe3+–O2
−, but not by adriamycin‐Fe2+. The ferrous iron chelator bathophenanthroline sulfonate (BPS) completely inhibited oxygen consumption caused by adriamycin‐Fe3+, indicating that ferrous iron is absolutely required for the lipid peroxidation. SOD and hydroxyl radical scanvengers did not inhibit the lipid peroxidation, indicating that O2
− and hydroxyl radical were not involved in membrane peroxidation. The peroxidation reaction was dramatically inhibited by Tris buffer (2‐amino‐2‐hydroxymethyl‐1,3‐propanediol). However, hydroxyl radical generation and lipid peroxidation in Tris buffer were not related obviously, indicating that Tris did not act as a hydroxyl radical scavenger. The initial rate of TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) formation induced by a mixture of adriamycin‐Fe3+ and adriamycin‐Fe2+ was much faster than that indcued by adriamycin‐Fe2+ or adriamycin‐Fe3+ alone. These results made it became possible to speculate that the lipid peroxidation might be initiated by an adriamycin‐Fe3+‐oxygen‐adriamycin‐Fe2+ complex.
Mobile games and science learning: A comparative study of 4 and 5 years old playing the game Angry Birds
Authors: Herodotou Christothea
Published: February 2017

A popular activity among young children is the use of mobile devices and apps. Yet, the impact of mobile devices on learning and development is rather underexplored. The limited studies identified explore effects on literacy development and communication and report on mixed findings. A considerable gap is observed as to how the use of mobile apps relates to young children's understanding in diverse domains including science learning, and to extend, whether and how mobile apps should be used and how in early years' settings. The aim of this paper is to shed light on this area by examining the learning effects of touch screen mobile game applications, in particular the game Angry Birds, on two groups of preschoolers 4 and 5 years old respectively. Evidence from a comparative study with 32 participants reveal significant differences between the two groups in terms of game skills and their understanding of projectile motion. Implications for educational stakeholders, parents and app designers are discussed along with future research directions.
Significance of angiotensin 1–7 coupling with MAS1 receptor and other GPCRs to the renin‐angiotensin system: IUPHAR Review 22
Authors: Karnik Sadashiva S , Singh Khuraijam Dhanachandra , Tirupula Kalyan , Unal Hamiyet
Published: February 2017

Angiotensins are a group of hormonal peptides and include angiotensin II and angiotensin 1–7 produced by the renin angiotensin system. The biology, pharmacology and biochemistry of the receptors for angiotensins were extensively reviewed recently. In the review, the receptor nomenclature committee was not emphatic on designating MAS1 as the angiotensin 1–7 receptor on the basis of lack of classical G protein signalling and desensitization in response to angiotensin 1–7, as well as a lack of consensus on confirmatory ligand pharmacological analyses. A review of recent publications (2013–2016) on the rapidly progressing research on angiotensin 1–7 revealed that MAS1 and two additional receptors can function as ‘angiotensin 1–7 receptors’, and this deserves further consideration. In this review we have summarized the information on angiotensin 1–7 receptors and their crosstalk with classical angiotensin II receptors in the context of the functions of the renin angiotensin system. It was concluded that the receptors for angiotensin II and angiotensin 1–7 make up a sophisticated cross‐regulated signalling network that modulates the endogenous protective and pathogenic facets of the renin angiotensin system.
Identification of the anti‐mycobacterial functional properties of piperidinol derivatives
Authors: Guy Collette S , Tichauer Esther , Kay Gemma L , Phillips Daniel J , Bailey Trisha L , Harrison James , Furze Christopher M , Millard Andrew D , Gibson Matthew I , Pallen Mark J , Fullam Elizabeth
Published: February 2017

Background and Purpose

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health threat and is now the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent worldwide. The current TB drug regimen is inadequate, and new anti‐tubercular agents are urgently required to be able to successfully combat the increasing prevalence of drug‐resistant TB. The purpose of this study was to investigate a piperidinol compound derivative that is highly active against the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacillus.

Experimental Approach

The antibacterial properties of the piperidinol compound and its corresponding bis‐Mannich base analogue were evaluated against M. smegmatis and Gram‐negative organisms. Cytotoxicity studies were undertaken in order to determine the selectivity index for these compounds. Spontaneous resistant mutants of M. smegmatis were generated against the piperidinol and corresponding bis‐Mannich base lead derivatives and whole genome sequencing employed to determine the genetic modifications that lead to selection pressure in the presence of these compounds.

Key Results

The piperidinol and the bis‐Mannich base analogue were found to be selective for mycobacteria and rapidly kill this organism with a cytotoxicity selectivity index for mycobacteria of >30‐fold. Whole genome sequencing of M. smegmatis strains resistant to the lead compounds led to the identification of a number of single nucleotide polymorphisms indicating multiple targets.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results indicate that the piperidinol moiety represents an attractive compound class in the pursuit of novel anti‐tubercular agents.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Drug Metabolism and Antibiotic Resistance in Micro‐organisms. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.14/issuetoc
Neural Oscillation Reveals Deficits in Visuospatial Working Memory in Children With Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Wang Chun‐Hao , Tseng Yu‐Ting , Liu Dang , Tsai Chia‐Liang
Published: February 2017

The electroencephalographic (EEG) oscillations associated with visuospatial working memory (VSWM) were examined in children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD; 10–11 years; N = 29) and typically developing (TD) children (10–11 years; N = 29). Behaviorally, DCD showed poorer VSWM than TD, which coincided with the diminished ability of DCD in modulating neural oscillations. Furthermore, prestimulus oscillatory alpha activity was correlated with VSWM performance. The results suggest that children with DCD might have a reduced ability to encode and recognize new information, and in particular have difficulty in maintaining task‐relevant information, resulting in poorer VSWM. This study thus concludes that changes in oscillatory EEG activity reflect some of the problems leading to cognitive deficits in DCD.
Differential responses of human dendritic cells to metabolites from the oral/airway microbiome
Authors: Whiteson K , Agrawal S , Agrawal A
Published: February 2017

Small molecule metabolites that are produced or altered by host-associated microbial communities are emerging as significant immune response modifiers. However, there is a key gap in our knowledge of how oral microbial metabolites affect the immune response. Here, we examined the effects of metabolites from five bacterial strains found commonly in the oral/airway microbial communities of humans. The five strains, each isolated from cystic fibrosis patient sputum, were Pseudomonas aeruginosa FLR01 non-mucoid (P1) and FLR02 mucoid (P2) forms, Streptococcus pneumoniae (Sp), S. salivarius (Ss) and Rothia mucilaginosa (Rm). The effect of bacterial metabolites on dendritic cell (DC) activation, T cell priming and cytokine secretion was determined by exposing DCs to bacterial supernatants and individual metabolites of interest. Supernatants from P1 and P2 induced high levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)−12 and IL-6 from DCs and primed T cells to secrete interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-22 compared to supernatants from Sp, Ss and Rm. Investigations into the composition of supernatants using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) revealed signature metabolites for each of the strains. Supernatants from P1 and P2 contained high levels of putrescine and glucose, while Sp and Ss contained high levels of 2,3-butanediol. The individual metabolites replicated the results of whole supernatants, although the magnitudes of their effects were reduced significantly. Altogether, our data demonstrate for the first time that the signature metabolites produced by different bacteria have different effects on DC functions. The identification of signature metabolites and their effects on the host immune system can provide mechanistic insights into diseases and may also be developed as biomarkers.