bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Causal relationships between blood lipids and depression phenotypes: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: So Hon-Cheong , Chau Carlos Kwan-long , Cheng Yu-ying , Sham Pak C.
Published: July 2018

Background

The etiology of depression remains poorly understood. Changes in blood lipid levels were reported to be associated with depression and suicide, however study findings were mixed.

Methods

We performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal relationship between blood lipids and depression phenotypes, based on large-scale GWAS summary statistics (N=188,577/480,359 for lipid/depression traits respectively). Five depression-related phenotypes were included, namely major depressive disorder (MDD; from PGC), depressive symptoms (DS; from SSGAC), longest duration and number of episodes of low mood, and history of deliberate self-harm (DSH)/suicide (from UK Biobank). MR was conducted with inverse-variance weighted (MR-IVW), Egger and Generalized Summary-data-based MR(GSMR) methods.

Results

There was consistent evidence that triglyceride (TG) is causally associated with DS (MR-IVW beta for one-SD increase in TG=0.0346, 95% CI=0.0114-0.0578), supported by MR-IVW and GSMR and multiple r2clumping thresholds. We also observed relatively consistent associations of TG with DSH/suicide (MR-Egger OR= 2.514, CI: 1.579-4.003). There was moderate evidence for positive associations of TG with MDD and the number of episodes of low mood. For HDL-c, we observed moderate evidence for causal associations with DS and MDD. LDL-c and TC did not show robust causal relationships with depression phenotypes, except for weak evidence that LDL-c is inversely related to DSH/suicide. We did not detect significant associations when depression phenotypes were treated as exposures.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence to a causal relationship between TG, and to a lesser extent, altered cholesterol levels with depression phenotypes. Further studies on its mechanistic basis and the effects of lipid-lowering therapies are warranted.
Temperature but not the circadian clock determines nocturnal carbohydrate availability for growth in cereals
Authors: Müller Lukas M. , Gol Leonard , Jeon Jong-Seong , Weber Andreas P.M. , Davis Seth J. , von Korff Maria
Published: July 2018

The circadian clock is considered a key target for crop improvement because it controls metabolism and growth in Arabidopsis. Here, we show that the clock gene EARLY FLOWERING 3 (ELF3) controls vegetative growth in Arabidopsis but not in the cereal crop barley. Growth in Arabidopsis is determined by the degradation of leaf starch reserves at night, which is controlled by ELF3. The vegetative growth of barley, however, is determined by the depletion of leaf sucrose stores through an exponential kinetics, presumably catalyzed by the vacuolar sucrose exporter SUCROSE TRANSPORTER 2 (SUT2). This process depends on the sucrose content and the nighttime temperature but not on ELF3. The regulation of starch degradation and sucrose depletion in barley ensures efficient growth at favorable temperature as stores become exhausted at dawn. On cool nights, however, only the starch degradation rate is compensated against low nighttime temperatures, whereas the sucrose depletion rate is reduced. This coincides with reduced biomass in barley but not in Arabidopsis after growth in consecutive cool nights. The sucrose depletion metabolism determines growth in the cereal crops barley, wheat, and rice but is not generally conserved in monocot species and is not a domestication-related trait. Therefore, the control of growth by endogenous (clock) versus external factors (temperature) is species-specific and depends on the predominant carbohydrate store. Our results give new insights into the physiology of growth in cereals and provide a basis for studying the genetics and evolution of different carbohydrate stores and their contribution to plant productivity and adaptation.

Significance Statement

The circadian clock controls growth in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana by regulating the starch degradation rate so that reserves last until dawn. This prevents nocturnal starvation until photosynthesis resumes. The cereal crops barley, wheat and rice, however, predominantly consume sucrose instead of starch as carbohydrate source. We find that carbohydrate supply from sucrose at night is regulated by enzyme kinetics and night-time temperature, but not the circadian clock. We postulate that the regulation of growth depends on the predominant carbohydrate store, where starch degradation is controlled by endogenous cues (clock) and sucrose depletion by external factors (temperature). These differences in the regulation of carbohydrate availability at night may have important implications for adapting crops yields to climate change.
Limits on visual awareness of object targets in the context of other object category masks: Investigating bottlenecks in the continuous flash suppression paradigm with hand and tool stimuli
Authors: Zopf Regine , Schweinberger Stefan R. , Rich Anina N.
Published: July 2018

Our capacity to become aware of visual stimuli is limited. Investigating these limits, Cohen et al. (2015, Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience) found that certain object categories (e.g., faces) were more effective in blocking awareness of other categories (e.g., buildings) than other combinations (e.g., cars/chairs) in the continuous flash suppression (CFS) task. They also found that more category-pair representational similarity in higher visual cortex was related to longer category-pair breakthrough times suggesting a high-level representational architecture bottleneck for visual awareness. As the cortical representations of hands and tools overlap, these categories are ideal to test this further. We conducted CFS experiments and predicted longer breakthrough times for hands/tools compared to other pairs. In contrast to these predictions, participants were generally faster at detecting targets masked by hands or tools compared to other mask categories when giving manual (Experiment 1) or vocal responses (Experiment 2). Furthermore, we found the same inefficient mask effect for hands in the context of the categories used by Cohen et al. (2015) and found a similar behavioural pattern as the original paper (Experiment 3). Exploring potential low-level explanations, we found that the category average for edges (e.g. hands have less detail compared to cars) was the best predictor for the data. However, these category-specific image characteristics could not completely account for the Cohen et al. (2015) category pattern or for the hand/tool effects. Thus, several low- and high-level object category-specific limits for visual awareness are plausible and more investigations are needed to further tease these apart.
Investigations of the mechanisms of interactions between four non-conventional species withSaccharomyces cerevisiaein oenological conditions
Authors: Harlé Oliver , Legrand Judith , Tesnière Catherine , Pradal Martine , Mouret Jean-Roch , Nidelet Thibault
Published: July 2018

Fermentation by microorganisms is a key step in the production of traditional food products such as bread, cheese, beer and wine. In these fermentative ecosystems, microorganisms interact in various ways, namely competition, predation, commensalism and mutualism. Traditional wine fermentation is a complex microbial process performed bySaccharomycesand non-Saccharomyces(NS) yeast species. To better understand the different interactions occurring within wine fermentation, isolated yeast cultures were compared with mixed co-cultures of one reference strain ofS. cerevisiaewith one strain of four NS yeast species (Metschnikowia pulcherrima, M. fructicola, Hanseniaspora opuntiae and H. uvarum). In each case, we studied population dynamics, resource consumed and metabolites produced from central carbon metabolism. This phenotyping of competition kinetics allowed us to confirm the main mechanisms of interaction between strains of four NS species.S. cerevisiaecompeted withH. uvarumandH. opuntiaefor resources although bothHanseniasporaspecies were characterized by a strong mortality either in isolated or mixed fermentations.M. pulcherrimaandM. fructicoladisplayed a negative interaction with theS. cerevisiaestrain tested, with a decrease in viability in co-culture, probably due to iron depletion via the production of pulcherriminic acid. Overall, this work highlights the importance of measuring specific cell populations in mixed cultures and their metabolite kinetics to understand yeast-yeast interactions. These results are a first step towards ecological engineering and the rational design of optimal multi-species starter consortia using modeling tools. In particular the originality of this paper is for the first times to highlight the joint-effect of different species population dynamics on glycerol production and also to discuss on the putative role of lipid uptake on the limitation of some non-conventional species growth although interaction processes.
Molecular Complexes for Effective Inhibition of Tau Aggregation
Authors: Gorantla Nalini V. , Landge Vinod G. , Nagaraju Pramod G. , Sunny Lisni P. , Nair Anjhu , Midya Siba P. , Priyadarshini CG Poornima , Balaraman Ekambaram , Chinnathambi Subashchandrabose
Published: July 2018

Tau is an axonal protein known to form abnormal aggregates and is the biomarker of Alzheimer’s disease. Metal-based therapeutics for inhibition of Tau aggregation is limited and rarely reported in the contemporary science. Here, the first example is reported of a rationally designed molecular cobalt(II)-complexes for effective inhibition of Tau and disaggregation of preformed Tau fibrils. The mechanistic studies revealed that the prevention of Tau aggregation by CBMCs is concentration-dependent and Tau seldom exhibits conformational changes. Interestingly, CBMCs play a dual role by causing disassembly of preformed aggregates as well as complete Tau inhibition. We believe that this unprecedented finding by the newly developed molecular complexes has a potential to lead to developing innovative metal-based therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease.
Structural and spectroscopic characterization of a new luminescent NiII complex: bis{2,4-dichloro-6-[(2-hydroxypropyl)iminomethyl]phenolato-κ3
O,N,O′}nickel(II)
Authors: Kara Duygu Akin , Donmez Adem , Kara Hulya , Coban M. Burak
Published: July 2018

The design and preparation of transition-metal complexes with Schiff base ligands are of interest due to their potential applications in the fields of molecular magnetism, nonlinear optics, dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), sensing and photoluminescence. Luminescent metal complexes have been suggested as potential phosphors in electroluminescent devices. A new luminescent nickel(II) complex, [Ni(C10H10Cl2NO2)2], has been synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and elemental analysis, UV–Vis, FT–IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and photoluminescence spectroscopies, and LC–MS/MS. Molecules of the complex in the crystals lie on special positions, on crystallographic binary rotation axes. The NiII atoms are six-coordinated by two phenolate O, two imine N and two hydroxy O atoms from two tridentate Schiff base 2,4-dichloro-6-[(2-hydroxypropyl)iminomethyl]phenolate ligands, forming an elongated octahedral geometry. Furthermore, the complex exhibits a strong green luminescence emission in the solid state at room temperature, as can be seen from the (CIE) chromaticity diagram, and hence the complex may be a promising green OLED (organic light-emitting diode) in the development of electroluminescent materials for flat-panel-display applications.
A strongly fluorescent NiII complex with 2-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyridine ligands: synthesis, characterization and theoretical analysis and comparison with a related polymeric CuII complex
Authors: Zeghouan Ouahida , Dems Mohamed AbdEsselem , Sellami Seifeddine , Merazig Hocine , Daran Jean Claude
Published: July 2018

The synthesis and characterization of diaquabis[2-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyridine-κ2
N,O)nickel(II) dinitrate, [Ni(C7H9NO)2(H2O)2](NO3)2, under ambient conditions is reported and compared with catena-poly[[bis[2-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyridine-κ2
N,O]copper(II)]-μ-sulfato-κ2
O:O′], [Cu(C7H9NO)2(SO4)]
n
[Zeghouan et al. (2016). Private communication (refcode 1481676). CCDC, Cambridge, England]. In the two complexes, the 2-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyridine ligands coordinate the metal ions through the N atom of the pyridine ring and the O atom of the hydroxy group, creating a chelate ring. The NiII or CuII ion lies on an inversion centre and exhibits a slightly distorted MO4N2 octahedral coordination geometry, build up by O and N atoms from two 2-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyridine ligands and two water molecules or two O atoms belonging to sulfate anions. The sulfate anion bridges the CuII ions, forming a polymeric chain. The photoluminescence properties of these complexes have been studied on as-synthesized samples and reveal that both compounds display a strong blue-light emission with maxima around 497 nm. From DFT/TDDFT studies, the blue emission appears to be derived from the ligand-to-metal charge-transfer (LMCT) excited state. In addition, the IR spectroscopic properties and thermogravimetric behaviours of both complexes have been investigated.
Poly[(μ5-cis-cyclohex-4-ene-1,2-dicarboxylato)(μ3-cis-cyclohex-4-ene-1,2-dicarboxylato)dicadmium(II)]
Authors: LaDuca Andrew R. , LaDuca Robert L.
Published: July 2018

The title compound, [Cd2(C8H8O4)2]
n
, crystallizes in the centrosymmetric monoclinic P21/n space group. Via cis-cyclohex-4-ene-1,2-dicarboxylate ligands in two different binding modes, square pyramidally and pentagonal bipyramidally coordinated Cd atoms are connected into coordination polymer layer motifs oriented parallel to the ab plane. These layered motifs are aggregated into the three-dimensional supramolecular crystal structure of the title compound by means of crystal packing forces.
Digitalization of aircraft performance nomograms
Authors: Mirosavljević Petar D. , Pantović Đorđe I. , Mijailović Radomir M.
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a new tool for aircraft performance analysis and optimization.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the methodology of converting nomogram curves into mathematical functions is presented. Aircraft performance nomograms represent graphical interpretation of influence of several variables on performance such as environmental conditions, runway conditions and aircraft mass. The aircraft performance nomograms are converted in mathematical functions that describe several independent variables’ influence on aircraft performance parameters. To achieve greater accuracy in calculation of aircraft performance parameters, it is necessary to determine mathematical functions presented by dependent variable variations with several independent variables. The method of determining mathematical functions is illustrated on Fokker 100 landing gear extended net climb gradient determination graph.

Findings

To evaluate model, it was necessary to determine net climb gradient both graphically and analytically using model and compare the results. After solving both analytically and graphically, it was concluded that results are a match. During model evaluation, it was observed that model has a lot of advantages such as it has great precision of calculation, requires less time to calculate results and has minimum error possibility.

Practical implications

Final result of digitalization of aircraft performance nomograms is software production. The usage of this software can reduce flight planning and aircraft exploitation costs in several different manners. Airliners can produce such a software for those types of aircraft where there is no software provided from aircraft manufacturer.

Originality/value

Digitalization of aircraft performance nomogram has never been analyzed before, although there is a possibility of this particular methodology implementation in a practical manner in aviation industry.
Do return to work interventions for workers with disabilities and health conditions achieve employment outcomes and are they cost effective? A systematic narrative review
Authors: Dibben Pauline , Wood Geoffrey , O’Hara Rachel
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate existing evidence on whether return to work interventions achieve employment outcomes and are cost effective in order to better inform those needing accommodations at work, as well as their line managers and trade union representatives, occupational health specialists and HR managers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a systematic narrative review to evaluate the evidence on the employment outcomes and cost effectiveness of return to work initiatives.

Findings

Evidence on interventions for musculoskeletal conditions such as lower back pain indicates that certain forms of intervention such as vocational rehabilitation and workplace-based rehabilitation facilitate outcomes such as employment, reduced sick leave and effective return to work. However, there is very little evidence on whether these interventions are cost effective. More generally there are glaring gaps in evidence on cardio-respiratory (heart and breathing) and mental health conditions with regard to both employment outcomes and the cost of interventions.

Research limitations/implications

This systematic review has critical and timely implications for both knowledge development and practice. While highlighting methodological limitations in the existing research base, it also presents avenues for further research on return work strategies and the factors inhibiting and facilitating their adoption and effective operation.

Originality/value

Although there is much existent literature on the return to work process, far less attention has been paid to the employment outcomes and cost effectiveness of interventions. This paper highlights the interventions for musculoskeletal conditions such as lower back conditions that may result in positive employment outcomes, with implications for practice. However, it also highlights gaps in evidence on the employment outcomes and cost effectiveness of interventions for cardio-respiratory (heart and breathing) and mental health conditions.
Restructuring quality assurance frameworks
Authors: Noda Ayaka , Hou Angela Yung Chi , Shibui Susumu , Chou Hua-Chi
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the Japanese and Taiwanese national quality assurance (QA) agencies, National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement (NIAD-QE) and Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council of Taiwan (HEEACT), transform their respective frameworks in response to social demands, and analyze and compare the respective approaches for the key concepts of autonomy, accountability, improvement and transparency.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative document analysis approach, this paper initially examines the higher education system, major policies and QA developments, after which the methods associated with the QA restructuring transformations are outlined in terms of motivations, expectations and challenges. Finally, the NIAD-QE and HEEACT evaluation policies and frameworks are compared to assess how each has prepared to respond to emerging challenges.

Findings

During the QA framework restructuring, both the NIAD-QE and HEEACT struggled to achieve autonomy, accountability, improvements and transparency. While the new internal Japanese QA policy is assured through the external QA, the Taiwanese internal QA, which has a self-accreditation policy, is internally embedded with university autonomy emphasized. The QA policies in both the NIAD-QE and HEEACT have moved from general compliance to overall improvement, and both emphasize that accountability should be achieved through improvements. Finally, both agencies sought transparency through the disclosure of the QA process and/or results to the public and the enhancement of public communication.

Originality/value

This study gives valuable insights into the QA framework in Asian higher education institutions and how QA has been transformed to respond to social needs.
Hospital service quality as antecedent of patient satisfaction – a conceptual framework
Authors: Swain Swapnarag , Kar Nirmal Chandra
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore dimensions of perceived service quality in hospitals and to develop a conceptual framework showing relationship between hospital service quality, patient satisfaction and their behavioural intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on extensive review of existing literature on hospital service quality, patient satisfaction and behavioural intention. Critical analysis of these literature studies has resulted in determining and defining the dimensions of perceived service quality and establishing relationship between hospital service quality, patient satisfaction and behavioural intention.

Findings

This study has identified six major areas through which patients perceive quality of service in hospitals. These six areas are technical quality, procedural quality, infrastructural quality, interactional quality, personnel quality, social support quality. Further 20 dimensions of hospital service quality are identified under these 6 major areas. These are clinical procedure, quality of outcome, admission, discharge, waiting time, patient safety, billing and price, follow-up, ambience, availability of resources, accessibility, food, staff attitude, personalised attention, information availability, staff competency, trustworthiness, staff diversity, hospital image and social responsibility. The conceptual framework proposes direct relationship between service quality, patient satisfaction and behavioural intention.

Originality/value

Though many studies have been conducted on hospital service quality, none of them has been able to project all the possible dimensions to measure the same. The “6-Q framework” developed by this study explores all the possible dimensions of perceived service quality in hospitals.
Exporting by experiential knowledge: a study of emerging market micro firms
Authors: Tiwari Sudip K. , Korneliussen Tor
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Relying on the theoretical lens of a knowledge-based view, the purpose of this study is to explore the sources and roles of experiential knowledge in the rapid internationalisation of an emerging market-based micro export firms (EMMFs).

Design/methodology/approach

This is an inductive theory building study, which attempts to understand the “how” and “why” questions. In so doing, the study used nine micro export firms operating in the handicrafts sector of Nepal.

Findings

The findings suggest that internationalisation of resource-poor EMMFs relies on the entrepreneurs’ experiential knowledge, which is mainly acquired through prior experience, social networks and participation in international trade-fairs.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes by formulating a number of propositions on the sources and roles of experiential knowledge, which could be tested in pursuit of theory building on micro firms’ internationalisation based in emerging markets.

Originality/value

The paper advances an understanding on the patterns of firms’ internationalisation, and discusses EMMFs’ possibilities to emerge as a faster internationalising firm, so-called “born globals”.
The company in society: when corporate responsibility transforms strategy
Authors: Lahtinen Sonja , Kuusela Hannu , Yrjölä Mika
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This study aims to identify and analyze the different roles corporate social responsibility (CSR) can play in corporate strategy. By acknowledging that one of the biggest challenges for companies in committing to sustainability is the strategy work, the authors outline specific strategic initiatives to achieve these roles and the strategic outcomes that will follow such initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Four illustrative case examples show how companies are recasting the role of CSR. The new CSR roles are characterized through two strategic dimensions: an inside-out (firm-oriented) vs outside-in (market-oriented) orientation and an emphasis on leveraging vs an emphasis on prospecting activities.

Findings

The findings show that to realize the opportunities of CSR for business, the environment and society at large, the role of CSR in the boardroom must be reconfigured. By recasting its role, CSR can become a driver for the strategy process and a transformative force generating strategic changes.

Practical implications

This paper aims to encourage top executives to take a proactive stance toward responsibility, recognize the new roles and potential impact that CSR can have in corporate strategy and assist strategic decision-making regarding CSR.

Originality/value

The paper aims to move beyond integrating sustainability into existing strategies and business models by demonstrating how sustainability can also inspire strategic changes a priori when the role of CSR is recast in companies. By viewing CSR as a driver of corporate strategy and strategic initiatives, the authors suggest that besides helping the environment, the community and society, CSR can take care of corporate strategy.
Evaluation of Satellite‐Derived Rainfall Data for Multiple Physio‐Climatic Regions in the Santiago River Basin, Mexico
Authors: Ávila‐Carrasco J.R. , Júnez‐Ferreira H.E. , Gowda P.H. , Steiner J.L. , Moriasi D.N. , Starks P.J. , Gonzalez J. , Villalobos A.A. , Bautista‐Capetillo C.
Published: July 2018

Assessment of water resources requires reliable rainfall data, and rain gauge networks may not provide adequate spatial representation due to limited point measurements. The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) provides rainfall data at global scale, and has been used with good results. However, TRMM data are an indirect measurement of rainfall, and therefore must be validated for its proper use. In this work, a validation scheme was designed and implemented to compare the TRMM Version 7 (V7) monthly rainfall product at different time frames with data measured in two hydrologic subregions of the Santiago River Basin (SRB) in Mexico: Río Alto Santiago and Río Bajo Santiago (RBS). Additionally, three physio‐climatic regions provide an assessment of the interplay of topography, distance from coastal regions, and seasonal weather patterns on the correspondence between both datasets. The TRMM V7 rainfall product exhibited good agreement with the rain gauge data particularly for the RBS and for the whole SRB during wettest summer and autumn seasons. However, strong regional dependence was observed due to differences in climate and topography. Overall, in spite of some noted underestimations, the monthly TRMM V7 rainfall product was found to provide useful information that can be used to complement limited monitoring as is the case of RBS. An improved combined rainfall product could be generated and thus gaining the most benefits from both data sources.
Description, natural history and genetic variation ofCaloptilia guacanivorasp. nov. Vargas‐Ortiz & Vargas (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) in the Atacama Desert, Chile
Authors: Vargas‐Ortiz Marcelo , Gonçalves Gislene L , Huanca‐Mamani Wilson , Vargas Héctor A , Moreira Gilson R P
Published: July 2018

Although considered the driest desert in the world, the Atacama provides unique habitats and a reservoir of biodiversity for plants and insects.CaloptiliaHübner, 1825 (Gracillariinae), is a highly diverse genus of leaf miner micromoths that has not yet been recorded in Chile. In this study, we describe a new species ofCaloptiliafrom a relict, vulnerable ecotone in the transverse valleys of the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. Adults, immature stages and natural history, including the mine ofCaloptilia guacanivoraVargas‐Ortiz & Vargas sp. nov., are described and illustrated. The larva is a leaf miner of the vulnerable, native, guacano treeMorella pavonis(Myricaceae). DNA barcode sequences were used to infer the specific status ofC. guacanivorasp. nov. Results indicate that the new species is monophyletic with a genetic distance of around 5% to the nearest congener. We also used genetic variation to make preliminary inferences on the population structure and demography of this new taxon. This data revealed the presence of haplotypes shared among distant valleys, suggesting an ancient polymorphism that is widespread throughout populations in the region.
Comparative development and growth of Aedes albopictus in response to native Quercus rubra and invasive Lonicera maackii leaf litter
Authors: Russo Leslie K. , Boyd Jennifer N.
Published: July 2018

1. Invasive plant species can modify native habitats in ways that influence co‐occurring mosquito populations. This study investigated the comparative influence on invasive Aedes albopictus Skuse (Asian tiger mosquito) of leaf litter of invasive Lonicera maackii (Rupr.) Maxim. (Amur honeysuckle) and leaf litter of native Quercus rubra L. (red oak).

2. Two density treatment levels of A. albopictus larvae were reared in either L. maackii or Q. rubru leaf infusions in small containers in a laboratory. The success of and time to pupation and emergence, adult sex ratio, and wing length as a proxy for size were assessed as dependent variables.

3. Individuals were more likely to pupate and emerge when reared in the Q. rubra infusion, but pupation occurred faster and adults grew larger when larval development occurred in the L. maackii infusion. The time to pupation for both females and males and male adult size were negatively impacted by density in the Q. rubra infusion, but density did not impact these factors in the L. maackii infusion.

4. Findings suggest that A. albopictus invasion could be influenced by concurrent L. maackii invasion. However, overall impacts on A. albopictus population dynamics through time could be complex, giving the contrasting influences of L. maackii on the early survival and subsequent development and growth of A. albopictus.
Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA) syndrome with septic shock: A case report
Authors: Kamio Masaki , Nagata Chikako , Sameshima Hirotsugu , Togami Shinichi , Kobayashi Hiroaki
Published: July 2018

Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA) syndrome is a rare complex of structural abnormalities of the female urogenital tract. A nulliparous 37‐year‐old woman was referred to our department for an acute abdomen. Multiple uterine myomas and painful right vaginal bulge were found on gynecological examination. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed a cystic mass and a right‐side cervix that was hidden behind the longitudinal vaginal septum. For these findings, pyocolpos arising from OHVIRA syndrome was suspected. Her general condition gradually worsened within an hour, and she developed septic shock and was hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU). Laboratory data revealed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and multiple organ failure. Her general condition gradually improved as a result of intensive care and transvaginal puncture drainage of the abscess. Hysterectomy, performed 2 months after the acute septic episode, confirmed the diagnosis of septate uterus with obstructed hemivagina. To date, there is no documented case of OHVIRA syndrome with an eventual septic shock.
Application of the solubility parameter concept to assist with oral delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs – a PEARRL review
Authors: Jankovic Sandra , Tsakiridou Georgia , Ditzinger Felix , Koehl Niklas J , Price Daniel J , Ilie Alexandra-Roxana , Kalantzi Lida , Kimpe Kristof , Holm René , Nair Anita , Griffin Brendan , Saal Christoph , Kuentz Martin
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Solubility parameters have been used for decades in various scientific fields including pharmaceutics. It is, however, still a field of active research both on a conceptual and experimental level. This work addresses the need to review solubility parameter applications in pharmaceutics of poorly water-soluble drugs.

Key findings

An overview of the different experimental and calculation methods to determine solubility parameters is provided, which covers from classical to modern approaches. In the pharmaceutical field, solubility parameters are primarily used to guide organic solvent selection, cocrystals and salt screening, lipid-based delivery, solid dispersions and nano- or microparticulate drug delivery systems. Solubility parameters have been applied for a quantitative assessment of mixtures, or they are simply used to rank excipients for a given drug.

In particular, partial solubility parameters hold great promise for aiding the development of poorly soluble drug delivery systems. This is particularly true in early-stage development, where compound availability and resources are limited. The experimental determination of solubility parameters has its merits despite being rather labour-intensive because further data can be used to continuously improve in silico predictions. Such improvements will ensure that solubility parameters will also in future guide scientists in finding suitable drug formulations.
Aquaculture feed technology adoption and smallholder household welfare in Ghana
Authors: Amankwah Akuffo , Quagrainie Kwamena K.
Published: July 2018

This study employs double‐hurdle model and propensity score‐matching techniques to examine the determinants and extent of adoption and the welfare impacts of improved fish feed technology in Ghana using cross‐sectional data of fish‐farming households. The study focuses on the Ashanti, Brong Ahafo, and western regions of Ghana. The results show that the quantity of improved feed used on‐farm is far below what is technically recommended for maximum yield. The analysis provides evidence that the adoption of improved feed technology increases fish income, as well as reduces poverty among fish‐farming households in the study area. In order to spur the adoption and intensity of the technology, complementary factors such as improving education, delivery of extension services and credit facilities, expansion of area under fish farming, and reduction in the price of improved feed are recommended.
Flesh matters: The body in cognition
Authors: Shapiro Lawrence A.
Published: July 2018

Embodied cognition emphasizes the importance of the body to cognition, but what is the nature of this importance? For some advocates, the body provides a computational resource within the context of a larger cognitive system. For others, the body constrains cognition, such that differently embodied organisms will differ cognitively as well. I examine these distinct conceptions of embodiment, defending the greater interest of the second. I argue as well that judgments of the body's significance in cognition do not, as contestants on both sides of the debate often insist, depend on showing the body to be a constituent in cognition.
Women's perspectives on home‐based care for family members with chronic illness: An Interpretive phenomenology study
Authors: Arpanantikul Manee
Published: July 2018

The number of people with chronic illness who need home‐based care is increasing globally. Home‐based care is socially constructed to be work carried out by women. However, little attention has been paid to the opinions of middle‐aged women caring for family members with chronic illness at home. In this study, Thai women's perspectives on home‐based care for family members with chronic illness using interpretive phenomenology were identified. Fifteen middle‐aged women were interviewed twice, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four major themes emerged: (i) role obligation; (ii) social life change; (iii) doing good things; and (iv) lack of support. Important findings were that care was considered a woman's duty owing to cultural beliefs. Most participants sacrificed their own needs to care for others, as doing good things is considered an important Buddhist belief. Caring for others decreased women's social networks, but they cared more for their own health. Support with finances, information, workplaces, and care recipients should be provided to women with care responsibilities. These results can help nurses to better understand women's caring roles and the consequences of home‐based care that influence woman's health.
Photodynamic Therapy in HeLa Cells Incubated with Riboflavin and Pectin‐coated Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Rivas Aiello María Belén , Castrogiovanni Daniel , Parisi Julieta , Azcárate Julio C. , García Einschlag Fernando S. , Gensch Thomas , Bosio Gabriela N. , Mártire Daniel O.
Published: July 2018

Riboflavin (Rf) is an endogenous photosensitizer, which can participate in Type I and Type II processes. We have recently shown that the yield of the triplet excited states of Rf is enhanced in the presence of pectin‐coated silver nanoparticles (Pec@AgNP) due to formation of a complex between Rf and Pec@AgNP (Rf‐Pec@AgNP). Consequently, under aerobic conditions, the amounts of singlet molecular oxygen and superoxide radical anion generated are also larger in the presence of the nanoparticles. This result made us suspect that the nanoparticles could have a beneficial effect in Rf‐based PDT. To prove this hypothesis, we here compared the photodamage in HeLa cells incubated with Rf in the presence and in the absence of Pec@AgNP applying several optical assays. We used fluorescence imaging of irradiated HeLa cells incubated with Annexin V and propidium iodide to evaluate the occurrence of apoptosis/necrosis, the reduction of the tetrazolium dye MTT to formazan and neutral red uptake to prove cell viability, as well as synchrotron infrared microscopy of single cells to evaluate possible structural changes of DNA and nuclear proteins. The enhanced photodamage observed in the presence of Pec@AgNP seems to indicate that Rf enters into the cells complexed with the nanoparticles.
3.0 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging anatomy of the central nervous system, eye, and inner ear in birds of prey
Authors: Stańczyk Ewa K. , Velasco Gallego María L. , Nowak Maricn , Hatt Jean‐Michel , Kircher Patrick R. , Carrera Inés
Published: July 2018

Despite the increasing interest in the clinical neurology of birds, little is known about the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of the avian central nervous system, eye, and inner ear. The objective of this cadaveric study was to document the MRI anatomic features of the aforementioned structures using a high‐resolution 3.0 Tesla MRI system. The final study group consisted of 13 cadavers of the diurnal birds of prey belonging to six species. Images were acquired in sagittal, dorsal, and transverse planes using T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted turbo spin echo sequences. A necropsy with macroscopic analysis of the brain and spinal cord was performed on all cadavers. Microscopic examination of the brain was performed on one cadaver of each species; the spinal cord was examined in three subjects. Anatomic structures were identified on the magnetic resonance images based on histologic slices and available literature. Very good resolution of anatomic detail was obtained. The olfactory bulbs; cerebral hemispheres; diencephalon; optic lobe; cerebellum; pons; ventricular system; optic, trigeminal, and facial nerves; pineal and pituitary glands; as well as the semicircular canals of the inner ear were identified. Exquisite detail was achieved on the ocular structures. In the spinal cord, the gray and white matter differentiation and the glycogen body were identified. This study establishes normal MRI anatomy of the central nervous system, eye, and inner ear of the birds of prey; and may be used as a reference in the assessment of neurologic disorders or visual impairment in this group of birds.
Inter-modality influence on the brainstem using an arithmetic exercise
Authors: Al Osman Rida , Al Osman Hussein
Published: July 2018

This study investigates the inter-modality influence on the brainstem using a mental task (arithmetic exercise). Frequency Following Responses were recorded in quiet and noise, across four stimuli conditions (No Task, Easy, Medium, and Difficult). For the No Task, subjects were instructed to direct their attention to the presented speech vowel while no mental task was performed. For the Easy, Medium, and Difficult conditions, subjects were instructed to direct their attention to the mental task while ignoring simultaneously presented speech vowel /a/. Results from this study suggest that top-down influences such as selective attention and working memory have no significant effects at the level of the brainstem in both listening backgrounds (quiet and noise).
Enhancing ferroelectric photovoltaic effect by polar order engineering
Authors: You Lu , Zheng Fan , Fang Liang , Zhou Yang , Tan Liang Z. , Zhang Zeyu , Ma Guohong , Schmidt Daniel , Rusydi Andrivo , Wang Le , Chang Lei , Rappe Andrew M. , Wang Junling
Published: July 2018

Destabilizing the polar order unexpectedly boosts the ferroelectric photovoltaic performance in bismuth ferrite.
Nano-kirigami with giant optical chirality
Authors: Liu Zhiguang , Du Huifeng , Li Jiafang , Lu Ling , Li Zhi-Yuan , Fang Nicholas X.
Published: July 2018

On-site nano-kirigami enabled continuous shape transformation of gold nanofilm for 3D nanofabrication and giant optical chirality.
In Vivo
Pharmacodynamic Characterization of a Novel Odilorhabdin Antibiotic, NOSO-502, against Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in a Murine Thigh Infection Model
Authors: Zhao Miao , Lepak Alexander J. , Marchillo Karen , VanHecker Jamie , Andes David R.
Published: July 2018

NOSO-502 is a novel odilorhabdin antibiotic with potent activity against
Enterobacteriaceae
. The goal of these studies was to determine which pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) indices and magnitude best correlated with efficacy in the murine thigh infection model.
β-Lactam Dosage Regimens in Septic Patients with Augmented Renal Clearance
Authors: Jacobs Alexandra , Taccone Fabio Silvio , Roberts Jason A. , Jacobs Frédérique , Cotton Frederic , Wolff Fleur , Creteur Jacques , Vincent Jean-Louis , Hites Maya
Published: July 2018

Augmented renal clearance is commonly observed in septic patients and may result in insufficient β-lactam serum concentrations. The aims of this study were to evaluate potential correlations between drug concentrations or total body clearance of β-lactam antibiotics and measured creatinine clearance and to quantify the need for drug dosage adjustments in septic patients with different levels of augmented renal clearance.
A Long-Standing Complex Tropical Dipole Shapes Marine Microbial Biogeography
Authors: Yan Wei , Zhang Rui , Jiao Nianzhi
Published: July 2018

Oceanic dipoles, which consist of a cyclonic eddy and an anticyclonic eddy together, are among the most contrasted phenomena in the ocean. Dipoles generate strong vertical mixing and horizontal advection, inducing biological responses. This study provides vertical profiles of microbial abundance, diversity, and community structure in a mesoscale dipole. We identify the links between the physical oceanography and microbial oceanography and demonstrate that the dipole, with its unique features, could act as a driver for microbial community dynamics, which may have large impacts on both the local and global marine biogeochemical cycles.
Transcription Factor NsdD Regulates the Expression of Genes Involved in Plant Biomass-Degrading Enzymes, Conidiation, and Pigment Biosynthesis in Penicillium oxalicum
Authors: He Qi-Peng , Zhao Shuai , Wang Jiu-Xiang , Li Cheng-Xi , Yan Yu-Si , Wang Long , Liao Lu-Sheng , Feng Jia-Xun
Published: July 2018

Most filamentous fungi produce a vast number of extracellular enzymes that are used commercially for biorefineries of plant biomass to produce biofuels and value-added chemicals, which might promote the transition to a more environmentally friendly economy. The expression of these extracellular enzyme genes is tightly controlled at the transcriptional level, which limits their yields. Hitherto our understanding of the regulation of expression of plant biomass-degrading enzyme genes in filamentous fungi has been rather limited. In the present study, regulatory roles of a key regulator, PoxNsdD, were further explored in the soil fungus
Penicillium oxalicum
, contributing to the understanding of gene regulation in filamentous fungi and revealing the biotechnological potential of
P
.
oxalicum
via genetic engineering.
Probing Zika Virus Neutralization Determinants with Glycoprotein Mutants Bearing Linear Epitope Insertions
Authors: Chambers Matthew T. , Schwarz Megan C. , Sourisseau Marion , Gray Essanna S. , Evans Matthew J.
Published: July 2018

Zika virus (ZIKV) infections are associated with severe birth defects and neurological disease. The structure of the mature ZIKV particle reveals a virion surface covered by the envelope glycoprotein, which is the dominant target of the humoral immune response. It is unclear if all regions of the envelope protein surface or even buried epitopes can function as neutralization targets. To test this, we created a panel of ZIKV mutants with epitope insertions in different regions of the envelope protein. In characterizing these viruses, we found that the strength of antibody binding to an epitope is the major determinant of the neutralization potential of an antibody, that even a buried region of the envelope protein can be efficiently targeted, and that the sole potential envelope glycan does not impact nearby epitope antibody binding and neutralization. Furthermore, this work provides important insights into our understanding of how antibodies neutralize ZIKV.
Protocol of the randomised placebo controlled pilot trial of the management of acute sciatica (SCIATICA): a feasibility study
Authors: Lassere Marissa Nichole , Johnson Kent Robert , Thom Jeanette , Pickard Grant , Smerdely Peter
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Acute sciatica (symptom duration less than 4 weeks), a major cause of pain and disability, is a common presentation to medical practices and hospital emergency departments. Selective CT fluoroscopy transforaminal epidural steroid injection is often used with the hope of reducing pain and improving function. Recently, there has been interest in using systemic corticosteroids in acute sciatica. However, there is limited evidence to inform management of selective CT fluoroscopy transforaminal epidural steroid in subacute and chronic sciatica and there is no evidence in acute sciatica, even though the practice is widespread. There is also limited evidence for the use of systemic corticosteroids in acute sciatica. Furthermore, the management of selective CT fluoroscopy transforaminal epidural steroid versus systemic steroids has never been directly studied.

Methods and analysis

SCIATICA is a pilot/feasibility study of patients with acute sciatica designed to evaluate the feasibility of undertaking a blinded four-arm randomised controlled intervention study of (1) selective CT fluoroscopy transforaminal epidural steroid (arm 1), (2) selective CT fluoroscopy transforaminal epidural saline (arm 2), (3) 15 days tapering dose of oral steroids (arm 3) and (4) a sham epidural and oral placebo control (arm 4). This feasibility study is designed to evaluate head-to-head, route versus pharmacology of interventions. The primary outcome measure is the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at 3 weeks. Secondary outcome is the ODI at 48 weeks. Other outcomes include numerical rating scale for leg pain, Pain DETECT Questionnaire, quality of life, medication use, rescue procedures or surgery, and adverse events. Results of outcomes from this randomised controlled trial will be used to determine the feasibility, sample size and power calculations for a large multicentre study.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/15/331/POHW/586).

Trial registration number

NCT03240783; Pre-results.