bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parallel Distributed Networks Resolved at High Resolution Reveal Close Juxtaposition of Distinct Regions
Authors: Braga Rodrigo M. , Van Dijk Koene R. A. , Polimeni Jonathan R. , Eldaief Mark C. , Buckner Randy L.
Published: November 2018

Examination of large-scale distributed networks within the individual reveals details of cortical network organization that are absent in group-averaged studies. One recent discovery is that a distributed transmodal network, often referred to as the ‘default network’, is comprised of two separate but closely interdigitated networks, only one of which is coupled to posterior parahippocampal cortex. Not all studies of individuals have identified the same networks and questions remain about the degree to which the two networks are separate, particularly within regions hypothesized to be interconnected hubs. Here we replicate the observation of network separation across analytical (seed-based connectivity and parcellation) and data projection (volume and surface) methods in 2 individuals each scanned 31 times. Additionally, 3 individuals were examined with high-resolution fMRI to gain further insight into the anatomical details. The two networks were identified with separate regions localized to adjacent portions of the cortical ribbon, sometimes inside the same sulcus. Midline regions previously implicated as hubs revealed near complete spatial separation of the two networks, displaying a complex spatial topography in the posterior cingulate and precuneus. The network coupled to parahippocampal cortex also revealed a separate region directly within the hippocampus at or near the subiculum. These collective results support that the default network is composed of at least two spatially juxtaposed networks. Fine spatial details and juxta-positions of the two networks can be identified within individuals at high resolution, providing insight into the network organization of association cortex and placing further constraints on interpretation of group-averaged neuroimaging data.
MORPhA Scale: behavioral and electroencephalographic validation of a rodent anesthesia scale
Authors: Esteves Madalena , Almeida António M , Silva Joana , Moreira Pedro Silva , Carvalho Emanuel , Pêgo José Miguel , Almeida Armando , Sotiropoulos Ioannis , Sousa Nuno , Leite-Almeida Hugo
Published: November 2018

Degree of anesthesia in laboratory rodents is normally evaluated by testing loss of reflexes. While these are useful endpoint assessments, they are of limited application to study induction/reversal kinetics or factors affecting individual susceptibility (e.g. sex or age). We developed and validated a grading system for a temporal follow up of anesthesia. The Minho Objective Rodent Phenotypical Anesthesia (MORPhA) scale was tested in mice and rats anaesthetized with a mixture of ketamine/dexmedetomidine (ket/dex - 3 doses). The scale comprises 12 behavioral readouts organized in 5 stages – (i) normal/(ii) hindered voluntary movement, elicited response to (iii) non-noxious/(iv) noxious stimuli and (v) absence of response – evaluated at regular time points. Progression across stages was monitored by electroencephalography (EEG) in rats during anesthesia induction and reversal (atipamezole) and during induction with a second anesthetic drug (pentobarbital). Higher anesthetic doses decreased the time to reach higher levels of anesthesia during progression, while increasing the time to regain waking behavior during reversal, in mice and in rats. A regular decrease in high frequencies (low and high gamma) power was observed as the MORPhA score increased during anesthesia induction, while the opposite pattern was observed during emergence from anesthesia through reversion of dex effect. The devised anesthetic scale is of simple application and provides a semi-quantifiable readout of anesthesia induction/reversal.
Risks in signal processing pipelines influencing the estimation of phase dependency for EEG-TMS
Authors: Guggenberger Robert , Scherer Maximilian , Gharabaghi Alireza
Published: November 2018

Phase-dependency of cortico-spinal excitability can be researched using TMS-EEG. Due to the large artifact, non-causal filters can smear the TMS artifact and distort the phase. However, causal filters can become biased by too high filter orders or uneven pass-bands. We explored the influence of different signal processing pipelines on the estimation of the optimal phase. This exploration involved performing two simulation studies. In the first, we simulated two different phase-dependencies (uni-versus bimodal) and sought to recover them with two distinct approaches that have previously been described. In the second, we specifically explored how filter parameters (e.g., order, pass-band) biased the phase estimation. On the basis of these findings, we propose using up-to-date toolboxes, re-running scripts after software updates and performing simulation studies in parallel to safeguard the analysis pipeline of empirical studies.
Olanzapine: a full and potent agonist at the hM4D(Gi) DREADD amenable to clinical translation of chemogenetics
Authors: Weston Mikail , Kaserer Teresa , Carpenter Jenna C , Snowball Albert , Knauss Samuel , Lignani Gabriele , Schorge Stephanie , Kullmann Dimitri M , Lieb Andreas
Published: November 2018

Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) derived from muscarinic receptors are a powerful tool to test causality in basic neuroscience, but are also potentially amenable to clinical translation. A major obstacle is however that the widely-used agonist clozapine-N-oxide undergoes conversion to clozapine, which penetrates the blood-brain barrier but has an unfavorable side effect profile. Perlapine has been reported to activate DREADDs at nanomolar concentrations, but is not approved for use in humans by the Food and Drug Administration or European Medicines Agency, limiting its translational potential. Here we report that the atypical antipsychotic drug olanzapine, widely available in various formulations, is a full and potent agonist of the human muscarinic-receptor M4-based DREADD, facilitating clinical translation of chemogenetics to treat CNS diseases.
Strong preference for autaptic self-connectivity of neocortical PV interneurons entrains them to γ-oscillations
Authors: Deleuze Charlotte , Bhumbra Gary S. , Pazienti Antonio , Mailhes Caroline , Aguirre Andrea , Beato Marco , Bacci Alberto
Published: November 2018

Parvalbumin (PV) positive interneurons modulate cortical activity through highly specialized connectivity patterns onto excitatory pyramidal neurons (PNs) and other inhibitory cells. PV cells are auto-connected through powerful autapses, but the contribution of this form of fast disinhibition to cortical function is unknown. We found that autaptic transmission represents the most powerful input of PV cells in neocortical Layer V. Autaptic strength was greater than synaptic strength onto PNs as result of a larger quantal size, whereas autaptic and heterosynaptic PV-PV synapses differed in the number of release sites. Overall, single-axon autaptic transmission contributed to ~40% of the total perisomatic inhibition that PV interneurons received. The strength of autaptic transmission modulated the coupling of PV-cell firing with optogenetically-induced γ-oscillations preventing high frequency bursts of spikes. Autaptic self-inhibition represents an exceptionally large and fast disinhibitory mechanism to synchronize the output of PV cells during cognitive-relevant cortical network activity.
Multi-color single molecule imaging uncovers extensive heterogeneity in mRNA decoding
Authors: Boersma Sanne , Khuperkar Deepak , Verhagen Bram M.P. , Sonneveld Stijn , Grimm Jonathan B. , Lavis Luke D. , Tanenbaum Marvin E.
Published: November 2018

mRNA translation is a key step in decoding genetic information. Genetic decoding is surprisingly heterogeneous, as multiple distinct polypeptides can be synthesized from a single mRNA sequence. To study translational heterogeneity, we developed the MoonTag, a new fluorescence labeling system to visualize translation of single mRNAs. When combined with the orthogonal SunTag system, the MoonTag enables dual readouts of translation, greatly expanding the possibilities to interrogate complex translational heterogeneity. By placing MoonTag and SunTag sequences in different translation reading frames, each driven by distinct translation start sites, start site selection of individual ribosomes can be visualized in real-time. We find that start site selection is largely stochastic, but that the probability of using a particular start site differs among mRNA molecules, and can be dynamically regulated over time. Together, this study provides key insights into translation start site selection heterogeneity, and provides a powerful toolbox to visualize complex translation dynamics.
Reciprocal cybrids reveal how organellar genomes affect plant phenotypes
Authors: Flood Pádraic J. , Theeuwen Tom P.J.M. , Schneeberger Korbinian , Keizer Paul , Kruijer Willem , Severing Edouard , Kouklas Evangelos , Hageman Jos A. , Wijfjes Raúl , Calvo-Baltanas Vanesa , Becker Frank F.M. , Schnabel Sabine K. , Willems Leo , Ligterink Wilco , van Arkel Jeroen , Mumm Roland , Gualberto José M. , Savage Linda , Kramer David M. , Keurentjes Joost J.B. , van Eeuwijk Fred , Koornneef Maarten , Harbinson Jeremy , Aarts Mark G.M. , Wijnker Erik
Published: November 2018

Assessing the impact of variation in chloroplast and mitochondrial DNA (collectively termed the plasmotype) on plant phenotypes is challenging due to the difficulty in separating their effect from nuclear derived variation (the nucleotype). Haploid inducer lines can be used as efficient plasmotype donors to generate new plasmotype-nucleotype combinations (cybrids)(Ravi et al., 2014). We generated a panel comprising all possible cybrids of seven Arabidopsis thaliana accessions and extensively phenotyped these lines for 1859 phenotypes under stable and fluctuating conditions. We show that natural variation in the plasmotype results in additive as well as epistatic effects across all phenotypic categories. Plasmotypes which induce more additive phenotypic changes also cause more significant epistatic effects, suggesting a possible common basis for both additive and epistatic effects. On average epistatic interactions explained twice as much of the variance in phenotypes as additive plasmotype effects. The impact of plasmotypic variation was also more pronounced under fluctuating and stressful environmental conditions. Thus, the phenotypic impact of variation in plasmotypes is the outcome of multilevel Nucleotype X Plasmotype X Environment interactions and, as such, the plasmotype is likely to serve as a reservoir of variation which is only exposed under certain conditions. The production of cybrids using haploid inducers is a quick and precise method for assessing the phenotypic effects of natural variation in organellar genomes. It will facilitate efficient screening of unique nucleotype-plasmotype combinations to both improve our understanding of natural variation in nucleotype plasmotype interactions and identify favourable combinations to improve plant performance.
In vivo generation of post-infarct mouse cardiac muscle by cardiomyocyte progenitors produced with a reproducible laminin-promoted human stem cell differentiation system
Authors: Yap Lynn , Wang Jiong-Wei , Moreno-Moral Aida , Chong Li Yen , Sun Yi , Harmston Nathan , Wang Xiaoyuan , Chong Suet Yen , Öhman Miina K. , Wei Heming , Bunte Ralph , Gosh Sujoy , Cook Stuart , Hovatta Outi , Kleijn Dominique P.V. de , Petretto Enrico , Tryggvason Karl
Published: November 2018

Regeneration of human heart muscle after injury is extremely limited and an unmet clinical need. Despite extensive research, there are no methods for the reproducible generation of clinical quality stem-cell-derived cardiovascular progenitors (CVPs). Here, we identified laminin-221 (LN-221) as the main cardiac laminin, which was produced here as human recombinant protein, and showed that LN-221 promotes differentiation of pluripotent hESCs towards cardiomyocyte lineage and downregulates genes associated with pluripotency and teratoma development. We developed a chemically defined, xeno-free laminin-based cardiomyocyte differentiation protocol to reproducibly generate CVPs that form human muscle in vivo. We assessed the reproducibility of the differentiation protocol using time-course bulk RNA sequencing developed from two different hESC lines. Single-cell RNA sequencing of CVPs derived from two hESC lines further showed high reproducibility and identified three main progenitor subpopulations. These CVPs were transplanted into myocardial infarction mice, where heart function was measured by echocardiogram and human heart muscle bundle formation was identified histologically. This method may provide clinical quality cells for use in regenerative cardiology.
Psittacid Adenovirus-2 infection in the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot (Neophema chrysogastor): A key threatening process or an example of a host-adapted virus?
Authors: Yang Nian , McLelland Jennifer , McLelland David J. , Clarke Judy , Woolford Lucy , Eden Paul , Phalen David N.
Published: November 2018

Psittacid Adenovirus-2 (PsAdv-2) was identified in captive orange-bellied parrots (Neophema chrysogastor) during a multifactorial cluster of mortalities at the Adelaide Zoo, South Australia, and an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa septicaemia at the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment captive breeding facility, Taroona, Tasmania. This was the first time that an adenovirus had been identified in orange-bellied parrots and is the first report of PsAdv-2 in Australia. To investigate the status of PsAdv-2 in the captive population of orange-bellied parrots, 102 healthy birds from five breeding facilities were examined for the presence of PsAdv-2 DNA in droppings and/or cloacal swabs using a nested polymerase chain reaction assay. Additionally, eight birds released to the wild for the 2016 breeding season were similarly tested when they were recaptured prior to migration to be held in captivity for the winter. PsAdv-2 was identified in all breeding facilities as well as the birds recaptured from the wild. Prevalence of shedding ranged from 29.7 to 76.5%, demonstrating that PsAdv-2 is endemic in the captive population of orange-bellied parrots and that wild parrots may have been exposed to the virus. PsAdv-2 DNA was detected in both cloacal swabs and faeces of the orange-bellied parrots, but testing both samples from the same birds suggested that testing faeces would be more sensitive than cloacal swabs. PsAdv-2 was not found in other psittacine species housed in nearby aviaries at the Adelaide Zoo. The source of the infection in the orange-bellied parrots remains undetermined. In this study, PsAdv-2 prevalence of shedding was higher in adult birds as compared to birds less than one year old. Preliminary data also suggested a correlation between adenovirus shedding prevalence within the breeding collection and chick survival.
Migration of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate from the plastic film into the air and vegetables in the greenhouses
Authors: Fu Xiaowei , Huang Bin
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) from plastic film of the greenhouse to the air and the vegetables grown in the greenhouse. This paper presents the migration of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) by determining the di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) concentration in air and vegetables in greenhouses with the change of temperature in a day and a half year. The determination of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) content in the air and the vegetables was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The results showed that di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) content in the greenhouse air increased with increasing temperature during one day, but di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) content changes in vegetable were different from those in air, and which depends on the exposure time. For the monthly content changes, di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) content in air first increased to a maximum and then decreased with increasing time and temperature. The di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) content changes of six vegetables not only were related with di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) content in air and temperature, but also with varieties of vegetables.
Prefoldin 6 mediates longevity response from heat shock factor 1 to FOXO in C. elegans
Authors: Son Heehwa G. , Seo Keunhee , Seo Mihwa , Park Sangsoon , Ham Seokjin , An Seon Woo A. , Choi Eun-Seok , Lee Yujin , Baek Haeshim , Kim Eunju , Ryu Youngjae , Ha Chang Man , Hsu Ao-Lin , Roh Tae-Young , Jang Sung Key , Lee Seung-Jae V.
Published: November 2018

Heat shock factor 1 (HSF-1) and forkhead box O (FOXO) are key transcription factors that protect cells from various stresses. In Caenorhabditis elegans, HSF-1 and FOXO together promote a long life span when insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) is reduced. However, it remains poorly understood how HSF-1 and FOXO cooperate to confer IIS-mediated longevity. Here, we show that prefoldin 6 (PFD-6), a component of the molecular chaperone prefoldin-like complex, relays longevity response from HSF-1 to FOXO under reduced IIS. We found that PFD-6 was specifically required for reduced IIS-mediated longevity by acting in the intestine and hypodermis. We showed that HSF-1 increased the levels of PFD-6 proteins, which in turn directly bound FOXO and enhanced its transcriptional activity. Our work suggests that the prefoldin-like chaperone complex mediates longevity response from HSF-1 to FOXO to increase the life span in animals with reduced IIS.
Neutron and X-ray crystal structures ofLactobacillus brevisalcohol dehydrogenase reveal new insights into hydrogen-bonding pathways
Authors: Hermann Johannes , Nowotny Phillip , Schrader Tobias E. , Biggel Philipp , Hekmat Dariusch , Weuster-Botz Dirk
Published: November 2018

Lactobacillus brevisalcohol dehydrogenase (LbADH) is a well studied homotetrameric enzyme which catalyzes the enantioselective reduction of prochiral ketones to the corresponding secondary alcohols.LbADH is stable and enzymatically active at elevated temperatures and accepts a broad range of substrates, making it a valuable tool in industrial biocatalysis. Here, the expression, purification and crystallization ofLbADH to generate large, single crystals with a volume of up to 1 mm3suitable for neutron diffraction studies are described. Neutron diffraction data were collected from an H/D-exchangedLbADH crystal using the BIODIFF instrument at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ), Garching, Germany to a resolutiondminof 2.15 Å in 16 days. This allowed the first neutron crystal structure ofLbADH to be determined. The neutron structure revealed new details of the hydrogen-bonding network originating from the ion-binding site ofLbADH and provided new insights into the reasons why divalent magnesium (Mg2+) or manganese (Mn2+) ions are necessary for its activity. X-ray diffraction data were obtained from the same crystal at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), Grenoble, France to a resolutiondminof 1.48 Å. The high-resolution X-ray structure suggested partial occupancy of Mn2+and Mg2+at the ion-binding site. This is supported by the different binding affinity of Mn2+and Mg2+to the tetrameric structure calculatedviafree-energy molecular-dynamics simulations.
Crystal structure of the dimethylsulfide monooxygenase DmoA from Hyphomicrobium sulfonivorans
Authors: Cao Hai-Yan , Wang Peng , Peng Ming , Shao Xuan , Chen Xiu-Lan , Li Chun-Yang
Published: November 2018

DmoA is a monooxygenase which uses dioxygen (O2) and reduced flavin mononucleotide (FMNH2) to catalyze the oxidation of dimethylsulfide (DMS). Although it has been characterized, the structure of DmoA remains unknown. Here, the crystal structure of DmoA was determined to a resolution of 2.28 Å and was compared with those of its homologues LadA and BdsA. The results showed that their overall structures are similar: they all share a conserved TIM-barrel fold which is composed of eight α-helices and eight β-strands. In addition, they all have five additional insertions. Detailed comparison showed that the structures have notable differences despite their high sequence similarity. The substrate-binding pocket of DmoA is smaller compared with those of LadA and BdsA.
Aspherical scattering factors forSHELXL– model, implementation and application
Authors: Lübben Jens , Wandtke Claudia M. , Hübschle Christian B. , Ruf Michael , Sheldrick George M. , Dittrich Birger
Published: November 2018

A new aspherical scattering factor formalism has been implemented in the crystallographic least-squares refinement programSHELXL. The formalism relies on Gaussian functions and can optionally complement the independent atom model to take into account the deformation of electron-density distribution due to chemical bonding and lone pairs. Asphericity contributions were derived from the electron density obtained from quantum-chemical density functional theory computations of suitable model compounds that contain particular chemical environments, as defined by the invariom formalism. Thanks to a new algorithm, invariom assignment for refinement inSHELXLis automated. A suitable parameterization for each chemical environment within the new model was achieved by metaheuristics. Figures of merit, precision and accuracy of crystallographic least-squares refinements improve significantly upon using the new model.
Relaxation method in description of RAM memory cell in RSFQ computer
Authors: Pomorski Krzysztof Dominik , Akaike Hiroyuki , Fujimaki Akira , Rusek Krzysztof
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The lack of reliable and scalable superconducting random access memory (RAM) cells is the main obstacle for full implementation of superconducting rapid single flux quantum(RSFQ) computers. This work points the methodology and the structures that shall be used in future implementation of RSFQ RAM.

Design/methodology/approach

A new design for RAM using two ferromagnetic strips in proximity to the superconductor in a RSFQ computer is presented (1). The concept of using a RAM RSFQ cell as a tuneable superconducting qubit is also explored.

Findings

Two basic architectures for superconducting RAM cells were developed with integration schemes in two dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed RAM cells as depicted in Figures 7 and 16 offer smaller size and greater 3 scalability in comparison to other suggested schemes (4), (3), (2), (5).

Practical implications

Currently, the main obstacle in implementation of RSQF computer is lack of reliable RAM cell. RSQF computer shall have potential to take a large fraction of classical supercomputers, as it consumes much less power.

Social implications

Computation power shall be cheaper when one uses RSQF computers for big data and computational centres. It is a matter of some time.

Originality/value

The publication presents the new design of superconducting RAM cell for use in RSQF computer. The numerical relaxation method is used to solve biharmonic Ginzburg–Landau equation. The analytic approach as a solution of a specified problem is given.
Understanding internationalisation approaches and mechanisms of diaspora entrepreneurs in emerging economies as a learning process
Authors: Ekanem Ignatius
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an exploration into the internationalisation approaches and mechanisms of diaspora entrepreneurs in emerging economies. It seeks to conceptualise the strategies as a learning process.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is qualitative using a case study approach involving in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted longitudinally.

Findings

The findings suggest that diaspora entrepreneurs adopt mostly the network or, in some cases, the international new venture (born-global) market entry approach rather than the traditional stage by stage approach. The findings also suggest that diaspora entrepreneurs have perceived advantages over domestic small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) because of their foreign exposure which has influenced their entrepreneurial behaviour in exploiting business opportunities.

Practical implications

The main implication of the study is that entrepreneurs who are beginning to internationalise their activities should seek to exploit potential first-mover advantages in emerging economies by realising an approach of internationalisation at high speed.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to better understanding of the diaspora entrepreneurship and its dynamics.
Preparation and tribological properties of a microemulsion for magnesium alloy warm rolling
Authors: Dong Chang , Sun Jianlin , Cheng Zixuan , Hou Yuqing
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize a microemulsion and investigate its tribological properties as lubricant. Magnesium alloy warm rolling experiments were conducted. Surface morphology was observed and wear form was summarized. The composition of surface residues was analyzed, which sheds light on the lubrication mechanism of microemulsion.

Design/methodology/approach

A microemulsion was prepared with a proper amount of oil, surfactant, cosurfactant, water and other additives for magnesium alloy strip warm rolling. Tribological properties, such as maximum non-seizure load (PB), friction coefficient (μ) and wear scar diameter (D) of the microemulsion were measured and compared with those of emulsion and rolling oil on an MR-10A four-ball tribotester. The extreme pressure anti-wear coefficients (O) were calculated and compared. Warm rolling experiments were carried out on a Ф 170/400 × 300 mm four-high rolling mill at 240°C to compare the finish rolling thickness and surface quality of rolled AZ31B magnesium alloy strip under four lubrication states, namely, no lubrication, rolling oil, microemulsion and emulsion. The surface morphology after warm rolling was observed with confocal laser scanning microscope and scanning electron microscope, respectively. The composition of surface residues was analyzed with energy dispersive spectrometry and X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Findings

Surface morphology indicated that pitting wear, adhesive wear and ploughing wear were three main forms of wear in magnesium alloy warm rolling. Microemulsion had excellent lubrication properties with less residual oil remaining. Two types of adsorption layers formed on magnesium alloy strip surface were responsible for lubrication properties. MgSO4 and magnesium stearate in the reaction layer played a key role in anti-wear and friction-reduction in warm rolling.

Originality/value

The study is original and gives valuable information on lubrication mechanism of microemulsion in warm rolling of magnesium alloy strips.
Friction reduction in EHL contacts by surface microtexturing – tribological performance, manufacturing and tailored design
Authors: Tremmel Stephan , Marian Max , Zahner Michael , Wartzack Sandro , Merklein Marion
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to derive tailor-made microtextures for elastohydrodynamically lubricated (EHL) contacts under consideration of manufacturing possibilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Component tests were used for the evaluation of the influence of surface texturing on the friction behavior in the cam/tappet contact. Furthermore, the manufacturing possibilities and limitations of a combined μEDM and micro-coining process and the feasibility of integration into a forming process were studied. Finally, a methodology based on transient EHL simulations and a meta-model of optimal prognosis was exemplarily used for microtexture optimization.

Findings

It was found that surface texturing in EHL contacts with high amount of sliding is promising. Moreover, the combination of μEDM and micro coining and the integration into established production processes allow the manufacturing of microtextures with desirable structural parameters and sufficient accuracy.

Originality/value

This paper gives a holistic view on surface microtexturing over several phases of the product life cycle, from the design, over efficient manufacturing to application-related testing.
Analysis of misaligned water-lubricated polymer bearing with axial grooves
Authors: Lv Fangrui , Jiao Chunxiao , Zou Donglin , Ta Na , Rao Zhu-shi
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the lubrication behavior of misaligned water-lubricated polymer bearings with axial grooves.

Design/methodology/approach

A lubrication model considering journal misalignment, bush deformation and grooves is established. In dynamic analyses of shaft systems, bearings are usually simplified as supporting points. Thus, an approach for solving the equivalent supporting point location is presented. The influence of misalignment angle and groove number on film thickness, hydrodynamic pressure distribution, load-carrying capacity and ESP location is investigated.

Findings

As the misalignment angle increases, the location of the maximum pressure and ESP are shifted toward the down-warping end, and the load-carrying capacity of the bearing decreases. In comparison to the nine-groove bearing, the six grooves bearing has a higher load-carrying capacity and the ESP is located closer to the down-warping end for an equivalent misalignment angle.

Practical implications

The results of this study can be applied to marine propeller shaft systems and other systems with misaligned bearings.

Originality/value

A study on the lubrication behavior of misaligned water-lubricated polymer bearings with axial grooves is of significant interest to the research community.
Managing the customer experience: a beauty retailer deploys all tactics
Authors: Koetz Clara
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the concept of customer experience in the marketing literature, identify its dimensions and applications in retail companies and integrate it with the concepts of touchpoints and consumer journey; some correlated concepts, such as customer delight and engagement, are also clarified, and an example of best practice customer experience management, using the beauty product company Sephora as a reference is provided.

Design/methodology/approach

The case analysis was based on an examination of available public documents, such as press articles, case studies and the content of beauty blogs and social media (Facebook and YouTube) from 2014 to 2017; Sephora’s social media communities (Beauty Talk, The Glossy and Sephora TV); the company’s website and mobile application; and physical stores and Sephora Flash (a mix of a physical and digital store).

Findings

Four categories emerged from the analysis, namely, to provide an enhanced omni-channel shopping experience, to reward loyalty and to bond with customers, to promote social shopping experiences and to delight customers.

Practical implications

The study results provide retail managers important insights for maximizing customer experience across different touchpoints and throughout the whole journey to increase customer engagement and loyalty.

Originality/value

The paper provides clear theoretical and practical basis for customer experience management, based on an analysis of the concepts of customer experience, delight and engagement, as well as a case analysis of a company that excels in this area.
Recommendations for under-represented entrepreneurship
Authors: Pathak Saurav
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to make strategic recommendations that benefit under-represented entrepreneurship (UE).

Design/methodology/approach

The approach toward suggesting the proposed strategic recommendations is conceptual in nature. Blumberg’s theory of nested level of resource structure and McPherson’s theory of homophily will be invoked.

Findings

Under-represented entrepreneurship would benefit from initiating key resource identification and acquisition at a meso-level, i.e. within one’s own community in the first place and engaging in community-based collaborative and collective entrepreneurship.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed strategies have not been validated empirically.

Originality/value

The beneficial effects of implementing these strategies for UE will be felt in stages. First, communities will emerge as entrepreneurial as a whole. Subsequently, societal-level attribution of these communities as “entrepreneurial communities” will occur providing the necessary visibility and acceptance they would need to participate, contribute and get blended with more traditional entrepreneurship without distinction or prejudice.
Effect of modified Khon dance performance on functional fitness in older Thai persons
Authors: Chutimakul Ladawan , Sukonthasab Suchitra , Kritpet Thanomwong , Vannalee Chanai
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Aging population is on the rise around the world. Strategies to improve quality of life in this population are being implemented. Exercise is one of those strategies that has been proven to be effective as it produces many health benefits. The purpose of this paper is to determine the effects of Khon exercise on functional fitness in older persons.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 44 older people aged 60–65 years were recruited through a senior club in an urban area. They were divided into two groups: the Khon exercise group (performed exercise for 12 weeks, 60 min/day, 3 times/week) and the control group (engaged in routine physical activity). The Senior Fitness Test, which consisted of chair stand, arm curl, 2-min step, chair sit and reach, back scratch, 8-ft up and go, and body mass index, was performed before and at 12 weeks after the exercise.

Findings

After 12 weeks of training, significant differences in chair stand, 2-min step, chair sit and reach, and 8-ft up and go tests were noted between the exercise and control groups.

Originality/value

These findings showed that Khon exercise has positive effects on lower body strength and flexibility, aerobic endurance and balance. Hence, it is recommended for health promotion among older persons.
Metabolic syndrome and psoriatic arthritis among patients with psoriasis vulgaris: Quality of life and prevalence
Authors: Souza Cacilda S. , de Castro Caio C. S. , Carneiro Francisca R. O. , Pinto Jane M. N. , Fabricio Lincoln H. Z. , Azulay‐Abulafia Luna , Romiti Ricardo , Cestari Tania F. , Suzuki Cláudia E. , Biegun Priscila M. , Guedes Luciana S. , Oyafuso Luiza K. M.
Published: November 2018

Interest has increased in comorbidities associated with psoriasis and their effects on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and to investigate HRQoL and the prevalence of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity and dyslipidemia. In a cross‐sectional design, patients diagnosed with plaque psoriasis answered an interview and standardized questionnaires (Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire [DLQI], 36‐Item Short Form Health Survey [SF‐36] and EuroQol Five‐Dimension Questionnaire Three‐Level version [EQ‐5D‐3L]). Physical examination and several tests to assess desired outcomes were performed by a dermatologist and a rheumatologist during three visits. The prevalence of MetS and PsA was 50.0% and 41.8%, respectively. Dyslipidemia was the most prevalent (74.5%) secondary comorbidity, followed by hypertension (61.8%), obesity (52.5%) and T2DM (30.9%). The mean (standard deviation) DLQI score was 6.5 (6.9), and mean physical and mental SF‐36 measures were 45.2 (10.4) and 45.5 (12.3), respectively, and for EQ‐5D‐3L, mean utility index and EQ‐VAS scores were 0.68 (0.27) and 72.7 (19.7), respectively. PsA and MetS are important comorbidities; a reduced HRQoL is noted among plaque psoriasis patients with these comorbidities, emphasizing the relevance of diagnosis and treatment beyond the care of skin lesions.
Dynamic polyphosphate metabolism in cyanobacteria responding to phosphorus availability
Authors: Li Jiying , Dittrich Maria
Published: November 2018

Despite the crucial role of polyphosphate (polyP) in aquatic environments, its metabolism in cyanobacteria responding to nutrients is poorly understood. We investigate polyP in three cyanobacteria species, specifically unicellular picocyanobacteria, under various nutritional conditions. Our experiments show that the accumulation of polyP in cyanobacteria is strongly dynamic, depending on phosphate levels and growth stages. ‘Overplus’ uptake of phosphorus (P) during the lag phase leads to the rapid accumulation of polyP, followed by lower polyP quotas during the exponential growth stage as a result of competing ‘luxury’ P uptake and polyP utilization to support rapid cell division. Cyanobacteria are capable of P deficiency responses that preferentially maintain polyP. However, preferential utilization of polyP occurs under severe P stress, suggesting the crucial role of polyP as P reserve to support cellular survival. Strong variability was observed among different species of cyanobacteria in their ability to accumulate polyP, and likely in the threshold P levels at which preferential polyP degradation occurs. This suggests that some cyanobacteria may be more adaptive to P‐stressed or P‐fluctuating conditions. Our results explain and provide important insights into the variability of polyP observed in aquatic environments where picocyanobacteria are the dominant primary producers.
A comparison of two structured taxonomic strategies in capturing adverse events in U.S. hospitals
Authors: Austin John M. , Kirley Erin M. , Rosen Michael A. , Winters Bradford D.
Published: November 2018

Objective

To compare the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's Quality and Safety Review System (QSRS) and the proposed triadic structure for the 11th version of the International Classification of Disease (ICD‐11) in their ability to capture adverse events in U.S. hospitals.

Data Sources/Study Setting

One thousand patient admissions between 2014 and 2016 from three general, acute care hospitals located in Maryland and Washington D.C.

Study Design

The admissions chosen for the study were a random sample from all three hospitals.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

All 1000 admissions were abstracted through QSRS by one set of Certified Coding Specialists and a different set of coders assigned the draft ICD‐11 codes. Previously assigned ICD‐10‐CM codes for 230 of the admissions were also used.

Principal Findings

We found less than 20 percent agreement between QSRS and ICD‐11 in identifying the same adverse event. The likelihood of a mismatch between QSRS and ICD‐11 was almost twice that of a match. The findings were similar to the agreement found between QSRS and ICD‐10‐CM in identifying the same adverse event. When coders were provided with a list of potential adverse events, the sensitivity and negative predictive value of ICD‐11 improved.

Conclusions

While ICD‐11 may offer an efficient way of identifying adverse events, our analysis found that in its draft form, it has a limited ability to capture the same types of events as QSRS. Coders may require additional training on identifying adverse events in the chart if ICD‐11 is going to prove its maximum benefit.
Mapping schools' NAPLAN results: a spatial inequality of school outcomes in Australia
Authors: Smith Crichton , Parr Nick , Muhidin Salut
Published: November 2018

This article identifies spatial dimensions of educational outcomes using maps of the 2016 Grade 5 reading results for Australia's National Assessment Program–Literacy and Numeracy for all Australian schools. A geographical information system (GIS) was used to overlay schools' results onto suburbs' advantage or disadvantage to visualise spatial patterns. We then examined the extent to which school results “cluster” in socio‐economically advantaged and disadvantaged suburbs and considered the consistency of spatial patterns for results across major cities. That work illustrates both how GIS can foreground educational inequality and how “the spatial” is more than corollary for student socio‐economic status. Results show substantial differences between urban and remote areas and towns of different size. Maps of cities visualise spatial “clustering” patterns of school results, with most schools in advantaged suburbs having high results and almost no schools in disadvantaged suburbs having high results. Educational outcomes strongly align to local socio‐demographic characteristics, and parallel host communities’ levels of advantage or disadvantage. Differences between public and private schools are less significant than within‐sector differences for schools in advantaged or disadvantaged locales. Patterns in all cities are consistent—schools in advantaged suburbs predominantly have high results, whereas non‐government schools generally perform better than government schools in disadvantaged suburbs. Most concerning is the persistent and increasing trajectory of results in advantaged, and more so in disadvantaged suburbs, of all cities since the first National Assessment Program–Literacy and Numeracy in 2008. Ameliorating spatial inequality between primary schools is one of the greatest challenges for Australians.
PD‐L1 expression in ROS1‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer: A study using simultaneous genotypic screening of EGFR, ALK, and ROS1
Authors: Lee Jongmin , Park Chan Kwon , Yoon Hyoung‐Kyu , Sa Young Jo , Woo In Sook , Kim Hyo Rim , Kim Sue Youn , Kim Tae‐Jung
Published: November 2018

Background

The aim of the current study was to investigate the prevalence and clinicopathologic characteristics of ROS1‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in routine genotypic screening in conjunction with the study of PD‐L1 expression, a biomarker for first‐line treatment decisions.

Methods

Reflex simultaneous genotypic screening for EGFR by peptide nucleic acid clamping, and ALK and ROS1 by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed on consecutive NSCLC cases at the time of initial pathologic diagnosis. We evaluated genetic aberrations, clinicopathologic characteristics, and PD‐L1 tumor proportion score (TPS) using a PD‐L1 22C3 assay kit.

Results

In 407 consecutive NSCLC patients, simultaneous genotyping identified 14 (3.4%) ROS1 and 19 (4.7%) ALK rearrangements, as well as 106 (26%) EGFR mutations. These mutations were mutually exclusive and were found in patients with similar clinical features, including younger age, a prevalence in women, adenocarcinoma, and advanced stage. The PD‐L1 assay was performed on 130 consecutive NSCLC samples. High PD‐L1 expression (TPS ≥ 50%) was observed in 29 (22.3%) tumors. PD‐L1 expression (TPS ≥ 1%) was significantly associated with wild type EGFR, while ROS1 rearrangement was associated with high PD‐L1 expression. Of the 14 cases with ROS1 rearrangement, 12 (85.7%) showed PD‐L1 expression and 5 (35.7%) showed high PD‐L1 expression.

Conclusion

In the largest consecutive routine Asian NSCLC cohort analyzed to date, we found that high PD‐L1 expression frequently overlapped with ROS1 rearrangement, while it negatively correlated with EGFR mutations.
Longitudinal Reciprocal Associations Between Anxiety, Depression, and Alcohol Use in Adolescent Girls
Authors: Schleider Jessica L. , Ye Feifei , Wang Frances , Hipwell Alison E. , Chung Tammy , Sartor Carolyn E.
Published: November 2018

Background

Depression, anxiety, and alcohol misuse predict adverse social, academic, and emotional outcomes, and their relations to one another increase during adolescence—particularly in girls. However, evidence on the directions of these relations is mixed. Longitudinal models of internalizing problem–alcohol use links may identify promising prevention targets. Accordingly, we examined reciprocal associations between anxiety severity and alcohol use, as well as between depression severity and alcohol use, in adolescent girls.

Methods

Data were drawn from a population‐based longitudinal study of female adolescents. The current sample comprised 2,100 participants (57.1% Black, 42.9% White) assessed annually between ages 13 and 17. Girls self‐reported depression severity, anxiety severity, and frequency of alcohol use (consumption of ≥1 full drink) in the past year. Primary caregivers reported on socioeconomic and neighborhood factors; these were included with race, early puberty, and conduct problems (youth‐report) as covariates. Anxiety and depression severity were included within a single cross‐lagged panel model, along with alcohol use, to isolate their independent and reciprocal links to drinking behavior.

Results

Higher depression severity modestly predicted increased likelihood of subsequent alcohol use from ages 13 to 17. However, inconsistent relations emerged for the reverse pathway: Alcohol use modestly predicted decreased depression severity at ages 14 and 16; associations were nonsignificant in other lagged associations. Anxiety severity and alcohol use were not consistently associated.

Conclusions

Results highlight the key role of depression, relative to anxiety, in predicting later alcohol use. Future studies may examine whether depression prevention programs yield secondary reductions in alcohol use in adolescent girls.
Exploring the relationship between polygenic risk for cannabis use, peer cannabis use and the longitudinal course of cannabis involvement
Authors: Johnson Emma C. , Tillman Rebecca , Aliev Fazil , Meyers Jacquelyn L. , Salvatore Jessica E. , Anokhin Andrey P. , Dick Danielle M. , Edenberg Howard J. , Kramer John R. , Kuperman Samuel , McCutcheon Vivia V. , Nurnberger John I. , Porjesz Bernice , Schuckit Marc A. , Tischfield Jay , Bucholz Kathleen K. , Agrawal Arpana
Published: November 2018

Background and aims

Few studies have explored how polygenic propensity to cannabis use unfolds across development, and no studies have yet examined this question in the context of environmental contributions such as peer cannabis use. Outlining the factors that contribute to progression from cannabis initiation to problem use over time may ultimately provide insights into mechanisms for targeted interventions. We sought to examine the relationships between polygenic liability for cannabis use, cannabis use trajectories from ages 12–30 years and perceived peer cannabis use at ages 12–17 years.

Design

Mixed‐effect logistic and linear regressions were used to examine associations between polygenic risk scores, cannabis use trajectory membership and perceived peer cannabis use.

Setting

United States.

Participants

From the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA) study, a cohort of 1167 individuals aged 12–26 years at their baseline (i.e. first) interview.

Measurements

Key measurements included life‐time cannabis use (yes/no), frequency of past 12‐month cannabis use, maximum life‐time frequency of cannabis use, cannabis use disorder (using DSM‐5 criteria) and perceived peer cannabis use. Polygenic risk scores (PRS) were created using summary statistics from a large (n = 162 082) genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of cannabis use.

Findings

Three trajectories reflecting no/low (n = 844), moderate (n = 137) and high (n = 186) use were identified. PRS were significantly associated with trajectory membership [P = 0.002–0.006, maximum conditional R2 = 1.4%, odds ratios (ORs) = 1.40–1.49]. Individuals who reported that most/all of their best friends used cannabis had significantly higher PRS than those who reported that none of their friends were users [OR = 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.04, 1.75, P = 0.023]. Perceived peer use itself explained up to 11.3% of the variance in trajectory class membership (OR = 1.50–4.65). When peer cannabis use and the cannabis use PRS were entered into the model simultaneously, both the PRS and peer use continued to be significantly associated with class membership (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Genetic propensity to cannabis use derived from heterogeneous samples appears to correlate with longitudinal increases in cannabis use frequency in young adults.