bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genetic algorithm for optimizing space utilization in aircraft hangar shop
Authors: Li Xin , Wang Z.X. , Chan Felix T.S. , Chung S.H.
Published: February 2019

This study considers the aircraft placement problem in aircraft hangar shops (AHS) encountered by aircraft service companies. AHSs usually have irregular shapes, and aircraft, too, have special shapes. Moreover, frequent operations involving moving aircraft in and out are complicated. For these reasons, aircraft placement is difficult. The present study deals with operations management in AHS to optimize space utilization by placing a greater number of aircraft, which would greatly benefit aircraft services companies. Herein, a novel genetic algorithm (GA) based approach is applied to optimize space utilization. To exactly express the problem, practical and operational principles, including both in AHS and in outdoor areas, are abstracted based on interviews with the staff of an aircraft service company. Then, the placement space is modeled in an x–y coordinate system. In addition, a two‐dimensional geometry model for aircraft, consisting of seven parameters, is developed. Based on these works, a novel GA for solving the aircraft placement problem is developed. Finally, a practical instance with eight aircraft serviced by a company is tested. All eight aircraft are placed well by using the proposed approach. Compared to the previous scenario, where at most seven aircraft could be placed well, the proposed approach will greatly benefit aircraft service companies.
Determinants of individual investment decisions in investment‐based crowdfunding
Authors: Hervé Fabrice , Manthé Elodie , Sannajust Aurélie , Schwienbacher Armin
Published: February 2019

We investigate determinants of investment decisions in investment‐based (equity and bond) crowdfunding campaigns, using a novel investment‐, investor‐ and campaign‐level database, where equity refers to investments in entrepreneurial start‐ups and bonds to large real estate projects. We find that investors who have higher social interactions invest more. Social interactions are important in an equity crowdfunding context but do not affect participation in bond investments. This is consistent with the view that investors' social networks help reduce information asymmetry. Women invest less in the riskiest (equity) investments but more in safer ones (bonds). These findings are better explained by differences in risk aversion than differences in overconfidence between men and women. Overall, the findings contribute to the understanding of how investment‐based crowdfunding can be a viable source of entrepreneurial finance and how entrepreneurs' campaign decisions affect investor participation in this new form of entrepreneurial finance.
A walk on water: comparing the influence of Ai Chi and Tai Chi on fall risk and verbal working memory in ageing people with intellectual disabilities – a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nissim M. , Hutzler Y. , Goldstein A.
Published: February 2019

Background

Aquatic motor intervention has been found to be effective in reducing falls and improving verbal working memory among the general population. However, effects among older adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) have never been explored. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of aquatic motor intervention on fall risk and verbal working memory among older adults with ID.

Methods

Forty‐one older adults with mild to moderate ID (age: 50–66 years) were randomly assigned to 14 weeks of aquatic motor intervention (Ai Chi: N = 19) or identical on‐land motor intervention (Tai Chi: N = 22). Fall risk, measured with the Tinetti balance assessment tool (TBAT), and verbal working memory, measured with the digit span forward test, were assessed pre‐intervention, after 7 weeks of intervention and post‐intervention.

Results

Study results indicate positive effects of both aquatic and on‐land motor intervention on TBAT fall risk score, while the aquatic motor intervention group improved TBAT fall risk score quicker as compared with the on‐land motor intervention group. Moreover, the lower the pre‐intervention TBAT score was, the higher the improvement. In addition, study findings support the positive effects of aquatic motor intervention on verbal working memory ability as measured with the digit span forward test.

Conclusions

Motor intervention, and particularly in an aquatic environment, can potentially reduce fall risk. Aquatic motor intervention may help to improve verbal working memory among older adults with ID.
‘We've made the best of it. But we do not have a normal life’: families' experiences of tuberous sclerosis complex and seizure management
Authors: McDonald A. , Goodwin J. , Roberts S. , Fish L. , Vaughan B. , Cooper A. , Cadwgan J.
Published: February 2019

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a complex multisystem genetic disorder. Approximately 84% of people with TSC have epilepsy. However, there is little literature available regarding families' experiences with TSC and seizure management. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to explore families' positive and negative experiences, and attitudes towards TSC, epilepsy and medical management of seizures.

Methods

Framework analysis informed an open exploration of families' experiences with TSC, epilepsy and medical management of seizures. Using structured interviews, 11 parents of people with TSC and 2 people with TSC were interviewed, providing the data set for transcription and thematic analysis.

Results

‘TSC rules our life’ overarched three subordinate themes: ‘Our normal’, ‘Burnout’ and ‘Seizure management has given us our life back’. Families had to adapt to the normality of needing to constantly supervise their child even as they become an adult. They express a feeling of fear particularly of seizures, and this has impact throughout the family. There are frequent expressions of exhaustion and struggling to fight for access and support. There are some positives and cautious hope with the gaining of control from seizures as being able to predict or plan improves activity and participation. These interviews provided a rich insight into the lives of those with TSC and their families.

Conclusion

There are exciting developments with respect to scientific understanding of the pathophysiology of TSC, which opens opportunity for new treatments. Holistic family centred health care and practical support (e.g. opportunities for parental respite) is as important as medical intervention. As TSC is such a complex condition, there is a need for specialist clinics and TSC‐specific research.
GM1 promotes TrkA‐mediated neuroblastoma cell differentiation by occupying a plasma membrane domain different from TrkA
Authors: Chiricozzi Elena , Biase Erika Di , Maggioni Margherita , Lunghi Giulia , Fazzari Maria , Pomè Diego Yuri , Casellato Riccardo , Loberto Nicoletta , Mauri Laura , Sonnino Sandro
Published: February 2019

Recently, we highlighted that the ganglioside GM1 promotes neuroblastoma cells differentiation by activating the TrkA receptor through the formation of a TrkA–GM1 oligosaccharide complex at the cell surface. To study the TrkA–GM1 interaction, we synthesized two radioactive GM1 derivatives presenting a photoactivable nitrophenylazide group at the end of lipid moiety, 1 or at position 6 of external galactose, 2; and a radioactive oligosaccharide portion of GM1 carrying the nitrophenylazide group at position 1 of glucose, 3. The three compounds were singly administered to cultured neuroblastoma Neuro2a cells under established conditions that allow cell surface interactions. After UV activation of photoactivable compounds, the proteins were analyzed by PAGE separation. The formation of cross‐linked TrkA–GM1 derivatives complexes was identified by both radioimaging and immunoblotting. Results indicated that the administration of compounds 2 and 3, carrying the photoactivable group on the oligosaccharide, led to the formation of a radioactive TrkA complex, while the administration of compound 1 did not. This underlines that the TrkA–GM1 interaction directly involves the GM1 oligosaccharide, but not the ceramide. To better understand how GM1 relates to the TrkA, we isolated plasma membrane lipid rafts. As expected, GM1 was found in the rigid detergent‐resistant fractions, while TrkA was found as a detergent soluble fraction component. These results suggest that TrkA and GM1 belong to separate membrane domains: probably TrkA interacts by ‘flopping’ down its extracellular portion onto the membrane, approaching its interplay site to the oligosaccharide portion of GM1.

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Self‐Management Behaviors in Relation to Psychological Factors and Interdialytic Weight Gain Among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis in Indonesia
Authors: Natashia Dhea , Yen Miaofen , Chen Hsing‐Mei , Fetzer Susan J.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to understand the influence of demographic and psychological factors on self‐management behaviors and interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) as a fluid adherence marker among patients undergoing hemodialysis in Indonesia.

Design

A quantitative correlational study.

Method

A convenience sample of 145 patients undergoing hemodialysis was recruited from the dialysis units in two hospitals in Jakarta from September to December 2015. Questionnaires were used to examine self‐management behaviors, depression, anxiety, and stress. Data for IDWG were obtained by subtracting the individual's predialysis weight from his or her postdialysis weight from the previous session. Hierarchical multiple linear regression identified the predictors of IDWG.

Results

Self‐advocacy was ranked the least performed self‐management behavior, while medication adherence was ranked the most likely to be performed. Among the subscales of the Self‐Management Behavior Indices, positive correlations were found between the communication dimension with all psychological factors (depression, anxiety, and stress), while self‐advocacy had positive correlation with anxiety. Subjects gained a mean of 4.5% of their postdialysis weight, with over 50% exceeding the recommended 4% IDWG. Overall, 53.6% of the IDWG was explained by the weekly duration of hemodialysis, level of depression, communication, partnership in care, and self‐advocacy.

Conclusions

Self‐management behaviors are potential predictors that can be modified by nephrology nurses in order to enhance clinical outcomes, with the specific outcome being IDWG. Self‐management behaviors contribute to the promotion of appropriate IDWG. Depressed patients are less likely to adhere to weight gain restrictions.

Clinical Relevance

Education combined with training in self‐management behaviors—particularly communication, becoming a partner in care, and advocating for care—may improve adherence to IDWG guidelines among Indonesian hemodialysis patients. Interventions targeting depressed patients are needed.
Who is the Neoliberal? Exploring Neoliberal Beliefs across East and West
Authors: Beattie Peter , Bettache Karim , Chong Kristy Ching Yee
Published: February 2019

Research in political psychology has uncovered “elective affinities” between psychological traits and political ideology. Strong correlations have been found linking psychological variables to political‐economic beliefs in Western countries. These results suggest that people's psychological traits influence the development of their ideology, making some ideas, explanations, prescriptions, and ways of understanding the world seem more convincing or satisfying than others. Most such investigations have focused on differences along the liberal‐conservative ideological spectrum in the United States, or the left–right divide in Europe and (the rest of) the Americas. Relatively little research has examined psychological elective affinities with neoliberal ideology in particular, and none to our knowledge has been done outside of the West (including Turkey), except for Israel. We report the results of a preliminary investigation into the psychological correlates of neoliberal ideology in Hong Kong, India, and the United States. Our U.S. results replicate earlier research introducing the Neoliberal Beliefs Index, whereas our Hong Kong and Indian results reveal similarities and differences in the psychological traits associated with neoliberal beliefs.
Spray‐dried porcine plasma improves feed intake of weaned piglets subjected to heat stress
Authors: dos Santos Cerqueira Luis Gustavo , Schinckel Allan Paul , Silveira Hebert , Kuribayashi Thiago Hiroshi , Moreira Rennan Herculano Rufino , Lisboa Ítalo de Oliveira , Cantarelli Vínicius de Souza , Pospissil Garbossa Cesar Augusto
Published: February 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of spray‐dried porcine plasma (SDPP) on performance, measurement of thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), body temperature and relative organ weights of weaned piglets exposed to a heat stress or a thermoneutral environment. One hundred and forty‐four piglets with initial BW of 5.82 ± 0.33 kg (28 d old) were used. The experimental design was a 4 x 2 factorial arrangement, four plasma levels (0.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5%) and two environments (34º [heat stress (HS)] and 24°C [thermoneutral (TN)]). SDPP was fed from weaning (28 d of age) to the end of the trial (piglets were weighed at the beginning, 7, 21 and 35 days of trial). Rectal, neck, shoulder and leg temperatures were measured every seven days. At 21 days of trial, one piglet per pen was slaughtered to determine the weight of the carcass and organs. Blood samples were collected at 18 and 35 days of trial to determine levels T3 and T4. The rectal, neck, shoulder and leg temperatures were increased (p < 0.05) 0.4, 1.5, 1.0 and 1.3ºC, respectively, and relative weight of the lungs (p < 0.05) and total T3 (p < 0.05) were decreased 0.001 kg/kg and 0.19 ng/dl, respectively, for pigs in the HS environment. The estimated inclusion of 5.1% of SDPP had the greatest (p < 0.05) weight gain during the first week, and throughout the nursery phase, the 5% of inclusion had a tendency of improvement (p = 0.075), regardless of ambient temperature. For the entire period, pigs reared in the HS environment had the greatest (p < 0.05) estimated feed intake by the quadratic regression with the inclusion of 4.3% of SDPP.
α‐Ketoisocaproate and β‐hydroxy‐β‐methyl butyrate regulate fatty acid composition and lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle of growing pigs
Authors: Zhong Yinzhao , Song Bo , Zheng Changbing , Li Fengna , Kong Xiangfeng , Duan Yehui , Deng Jinping
Published: February 2019

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the effects and roles of excess leucine (Leu) versus its metabolites α‐ketoisocaproate (KIC) and β‐hydroxy‐β‐methyl butyrate (HMB) on fatty acid composition and lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle of growing pigs.

Methods and Results

Thirty‐two pigs with a similar initial weight (9.55 ± 0.19 kg) were fed one of the four diets (basal diet, L‐Leu, KIC‐Ca and HMB‐Ca) for 45 days. Results indicated that dietary treatments did not affect the intramuscular fat (IMF) content (p > 0.05), but differently influenced the fatty acid composition of longissimus dorsi muscle (LM) and soleus muscle (SM). In particular, the proportion of N3 PUFA specifically in LM was significantly decreased in the Leu group and increased in both KIC and HMB group relative to the basal diet group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, pigs fed KIC‐supplemented diets exhibited decreased expression of FATP‐1, ACC, ATGL, C/EBPα, PPARγ and SREBP‐1c in LM and increased expression of FATP‐1, FAT/CD36, ATGL and M‐CPT‐1 in SM relative to the basal diet control (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

These findings indicated that doubling dietary Leu content decreased the percentage of N3 PUFA mainly in glycolytic skeletal muscle, whereas KIC and HMB improved muscular fatty acid composition and altered lipid metabolism in skeletal muscle of growing pigs. The mechanism of action of KIC might be related to the TFs, and the mechanism of action of HMB might be associated with the AMPK‐mTOR signalling pathway.
Asymptotic Distribution of the Bias Corrected Least Squares Estimators in Measurement Error Linear Regression Models Under Long Memory
Authors: Koul Hira L. , Surgailis Donatas
Published: February 2019

This article derives the consistency and asymptotic distribution of the bias corrected least squares estimators (LSEs) of the regression parameters in linear regression models when covariates have measurement error (ME) and errors and covariates form mutually independent long memory moving average processes. In the structural ME linear regression model, the nature of the asymptotic distribution of suitably standardized bias corrected LSEs depends on the range of the values of where d

X
,d

u
, and d

ε
are the LM parameters of the covariate, ME and regression error processes respectively. This limiting distribution is Gaussian when and non‐Gaussian in the case . In the former case some consistent estimators of the asymptotic variances of these estimators and a log(n)‐consistent estimator of an underlying LM parameter are also provided. They are useful in the construction of the large sample confidence intervals for regression parameters. The article also discusses the asymptotic distribution of these estimators in some functional ME linear regression models, where the unobservable covariate is non‐random. In these models, the limiting distribution of the bias corrected LSEs is always a Gaussian distribution determined by the range of the values of d

ε
 − d

u
.
Use of 2‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography to assess left ventricular systolic function in dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome
Authors: Corda Andrea , Pinna Parpaglia Maria Luisa , Sotgiu Giovanni , Zobba Rosanna , Gomez Ochoa Pablo , Prieto Ramos Jorge , French Anne
Published: February 2019

Background

Early identification of systolic dysfunction in dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) potentially could improve the outcome and decrease mortality.

Objective

To compare 2‐dimensional speckle tracking (2D‐STE) with 2‐dimensional (2D) and M‐mode echocardiography in the evaluation of systolic function in SIRS dogs.

Animals

Seventeen SIRS and 17 healthy dogs.

Methods

Prospective observational case‐control study. Each dog underwent physical examination, conventional echocardiography, 2D‐STE, and C‐reactive protein measurement.

Results

Dogs with SIRS had lower 2D‐STE ejection fraction (X4D‐EF; 44 ± 8 versus 53 ± 8; P = .003), endocardial global longitudinal strain (ENDO‐G‐Long‐St; −14.6 ± 3.2 versus −18.5 ± 4.1; P = .003), and normalized left ventricular diameter in diastole (1.38 ± 0.25 versus 1.54 ± 0.17; P = .04) and systole (0.85 ± 0.18 versus 0.97 ± 0.11; P = .03) as compared to healthy dogs. Simpson method of disks (SMOD) right parasternal EF (55 ± 9 versus 60 ± 6; P = .07) and end systolic volume index (ESVI; 23 ± 10 versus 21 ± 6; P = .61), SMOD left apical EF (59 ± 9 versus 59 ± 6; P = .87) and ESVI (20 ± 8 versus 22 ± 6; P = .25), fractional shortening (FS; 34 ± 5 versus 33 ± 4; P = .39), M‐mode EF (64 ± 7 versus 62 ± 5; P = .35), and ESVI (23 ± 11 versus 30 ± 9; P = .06) were not significantly different between SIRS and control group, respectively.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Speckle tracking X4D‐EF and ENDO‐G‐Long‐St are more sensitive than 2D and M‐Mode FS, EF, and ESVI in detecting systolic impairment in dogs with SIRS.
Whole‐body amino acid pattern of juvenile, preadult, and adult pacu, Piaractus mesopotamicus, with an estimation of its dietary essential amino acid requirements
Authors: Khan Kifayat U. , Mansano Cleber F.M. , Nascimento Thiago M.T. , Boaratti André Z. , Rodrigues Andressa T. , Queiroz Daniel M.A. , Romaneli Rafael S. , Sakomura Nilva K. , Fernandes João B.K.
Published: February 2019

In the present study, juvenile (live body weight, 54.3 ± 8.2 g), preadult (live body weight, 822.5 ± 33.9 g), and adult (live body weight, 1,562.8 ± 41.8 g) pacu, Piaractus mesopotamicus, were used to estimate their dietary essential amino acid (EAA) requirements using the whole‐body amino acid (AA) pattern. The results showed that whole‐body moisture, crude protein, total lipid, and ash contents expressed on a wet weight basis (%) were significantly different among the studied growth phases. No significant differences were observed in the dietary EAA requirements estimated for the three growth phases of pacu. These dietary EAA requirements were found to be different than those previously estimated for the same fish through its muscle AA pattern. Based on whole‐body EAA to total EAA ratios {A/E ratios; [(each EAA/total EAA) × 1,000]}, EAA requirements were estimated to be histidine (0.42%), arginine (1.36%), threonine (0.82%), valine (0.90%), methionine (0.45%), isoleucine (0.83%), leucine (1.29%), phenylalanine (0.74%), lysine (1.64%), and tryptophan (0.14%) for pacu. These estimated requirements may serve as a reference line in the formulation of practical and experimental diets until dose–response‐based optimum EAA requirements are available for pacu.
Seasonal succession of tabanid species in equine infectious anaemia endemic areas of Italy
Authors: De Liberato C. , Magliano A. , Autorino G. L. , Di Domenico M. , Sala M. , Baldacchino F.
Published: February 2019

Equine infectious anaemia (EIA) is a disease with an almost worldwide distribution, with several outbreaks having been reported recently in European countries. In Italy, two regions, Lazio and Abruzzo, are considered as endemic areas for this disease. In nature, the EIA virus is mechanically transmitted by biting flies such as tabanids (Diptera: Tabanidae), although few studies have investigated the epidemiological implications. In the present study, several sites characterized by different levels of EIA prevalence were sampled. In sites with high tabanid populations, a seasonal succession of tabanid species with a dual‐peak corresponding to early active species (i.e. in June to July) and late active species (i.e. in August to September) was clearly observed. Moreover, a positive correlation was found between EIA prevalence and tabanid abundance and species richness, suggesting that tabanid diversity might extend the duration of the seasonal transmission period of EIA. Further observations are required to better assess how vector diversity influence EIA transmission.
Natural vertical infection by dengue virus serotype 4, Zika virus and Mayaro virus in Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus
Authors: Maia L. M. S. , Bezerra M. C. F. , Costa M. C. S. , Souza E. M. , Oliveira M. E. B. , Ribeiro A. L. M. , Miyazaki R. D. , Slhessarenko R. D.
Published: February 2019

Vertical transmission to progeny ensures the maintenance of arboviruses in their natural vectors. This mechanism is largely reported for dengue virus (DENV) and yellow fever virus (YFV). Few studies have addressed this mechanism for Zika virus (ZIKV), Mayaro virus (MAYV) and other arboviruses. The present study investigated the natural infection rate by arboviruses in 4490 Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and 296 Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) reared from eggs collected with ovitraps in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso State, from February to July, 2017. After viral RNA extraction and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction protocols for 10 flaviviruses and five alphaviruses, nucleotide sequencing and three passages in C6/36 cells, eight pools of Ae. aegypti positive for DENV‐4 genotype II, seven for ZIKV Asian genotype and two for MAYV genotype L were found. In addition, two Ae. albopictus pools were positive for DENV‐4 genotype II and two were positive for ZIKV Asian genotype. Infection was confirmed by viral isolation in all positive pools for DENV‐4 and for MAYV and in eight of nine for ZIKV. This mechanism may contribute to the spread of arboviruses during epidemics and also to their maintenance in natural vectors during interepidemic periods.
Inclusive fitness, asymmetric competition and kin selection in plants
Authors: Ehlers Bodil K. , Bilde Trine
Published: February 2019

The findings that some plants alter their competitive phenotype in response to genetic relatedness of its conspecific neighbour (and presumed competitor) has spurred an increasing interest in plant kin‐interactions. This phenotypic response suggests the ability to assess the genetic relatedness of conspecific competitors, proposing kin selection as a process that can influence plant competitive interactions. Kin selection can favour restrained competitive growth towards kin, if the fitness loss from reducing own growth is compensated by increased fitness in the related neighbour. This may lead to positive frequency dependency among related conspecifics with important ecological consequences for species assemblage and coexistence. However, kin selection in plants is still controversial. First, many studies documenting a plastic response to neighbour relatedness do not estimate fitness consequences of the individual that responds, and when estimated, fitness of individuals grown in competition with kin did not necessarily exceed that of individuals grown in non‐kin groups. Although higher fitness in kin groups could be consistent with kin selection, this could also arise from mechanisms like asymmetric competition in the non‐kin groups. Here we outline the main challenges for studying kin selection in plants taking genetic variation for competitive ability into account. We emphasize the need to measure inclusive fitness in order to assess whether kin selection occurs, and show under which circumstances kin selected responses can be expected. We also illustrate why direct fitness estimates of a focal plant, and group fitness estimates are not suitable for documenting kin selection. Importantly, natural selection occurs at the individual level and it is the inclusive fitness of an individual plant – not the mean fitness of the group – that can capture if a differential response to neighbour relatedness is favoured by kin selection.
From Pre‐Roman Bailo To Roman Baelo: Long‐Term Landscape Dynamics In The Straits Of Gibraltar
Authors: Jiménez‐Vialás Helena , Grau‐Mira Ignasi
Published: February 2019

The Straits of Gibraltar have been historically an important maritime axis of connection between the Mediterranean and Atlantic areas of the Iberian Peninsula. For this reason, most of the archaeological research has focused on the coastal settlements, but its broader archaeological landscape remains mostly unknown. In this paper, we present recent intensive surveys in which a wide range of sites was detected, dating from the eighth century BC to the fourteenth AD. The ancient landscape is thus reconstructed over a long‐term perspective. Prior to the Roman expansion, the earlier Bailo‐La Silla del Papa was an urban central place that supported a dense network of subordinate settlements. Later on, the central settlement was transported from inland to the coastal town of Baelo Claudia, but the territorial structure remained based on a similar pattern.
The prevalence and diagnosis of ‘stereoblindness’ in adults less than 60 years of age: a best evidence synthesis
Authors: Chopin Adrien , Bavelier Daphne , Levi Dennis Michael
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Stereoscopic vision (or stereopsis) is the ability to perceive depth from binocular disparity ‐ the difference of viewpoints between the two eyes. Interestingly, there are large individual differences as to how well one can appreciate depth from such a cue. The total absence of stereoscopic vision, called ‘stereoblindness’, has been associated with negative behavioural outcomes such as poor distance estimation. Surprisingly, the prevalence of stereoblindness remains unclear, as it appears highly dependent on the way in which stereopsis is measured.

Recent findings

This review highlights the fact that stereopsis is not a unitary construct, but rather implies different systems. The optimal conditions for measuring these varieties of stereoscopic information processing are discussed given the goal of detecting stereoblindness, using either psychophysical or clinical stereotests. In that light, we then discuss the estimates of stereoblindness prevalence of past studies.

We identify four different approaches that all converge toward a prevalence of stereoblindness of 7% (median approach: 7%; unambiguous‐stereoblindness‐criteria approach: 7%; visual‐defect‐included approach: 7%; multiple‐criteria approach: 7%). We note that these estimates were derived considering adults of age <60 years old. Older adults may have a higher prevalence. Finally, we make recommendations for a new ecological definition of stereoblindness and for efficient clinical methods for determining stereoblindness by adapting existing tools.
Focal nevoid hyperkeratosis of the nipple in a prepubertal girl
Authors: Muñoz‐Aceituno Ester , Colmenero Isabel , González‐Meli Beatriz , Torrelo Antonio , Hernández‐Martín Ángela
Published: February 2019

Nevoid hyperkeratosis (NH) of the nipple and areola is an extremely uncommon condition in prepubertal children. We report on a prepubertal girl with NH and provide dermoscopic findings that helped to make the diagnosis.
Cultural prerequisites for participating in open foresight
Authors: Wiener Melanie , Boer Harry
Published: February 2019

Companies are increasingly interested in participating in open foresight. However, little is known about the conditions supporting them to open up successfully in open foresight. This research takes a culture perspective on this issue. The leading assumption is that companies with an open culture are more likely to engage in collaboration than companies with a culture inhibiting openness. We use the Competing Values Framework to measure corporate culture, and collaboration breadth and depth to measure openness to external collaboration. Drawing on a sample of 168 Austrian companies, the research confirms that culture plays an important role in creating an environment supportive of open foresight, albeit in a somewhat surprising way: the internally oriented clan culture appears to support openness, while the externally oriented market culture does not support it. Possible explanations for this finding are put forward as directions for further research. The findings should help companies to predict whether they have the cultural conditions in place to embark on an open foresight journey successfully.
How Values Shape Program Perceptions: The “Organic Ethos” and Producers’ Assessments of U.S. Organic Policy Impacts
Authors: Carter David P. , Mosier Samatha L. , Adams Ian T.
Published: February 2019

Among the more recognizable programs related to natural and sustainable food is the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program. Although the robustness of the organic food market is difficult to contest, many debate the extent to which U.S. organic policy outcomes adequately serve consumers and the organic agriculture producers they rely on. This paper engages the debate from the perspective of certified organic producers. Drawing on the results of a nationwide survey of USDA‐certified producers, we first provide a snapshot of how producers assess the environmental, consumer, and market impacts of U.S. organic food policy. We then examine the extent to which organic producers’ policy impact perceptions are associated with their alignment with an “organic ethos”—understood as producers’ commitment to core organic principles and the organic movement. The paper highlights producers’ values as perceptual filters and cognitive mechanisms that help shape producers’ policy impacts perceptions, illustrating a contributing factor to the enduring nature of organic policy debates.
Should farmers apply fertilizer according to when their daffodils are in flower? Utilizing a “farmer‐science” approach to understanding the impact of soil temperature on spring N fertilizer application in Wales
Authors: Crotty Felicity , McCalman Heather , Powell Huw , Buckingham Sue , Marley Christina
Published: February 2019

Perennial ryegrass starts growing when soil temperatures reach 5.5°C for five consecutive days; applying N fertilizer before this risks environmental losses. To test whether daffodil flowering signified when to apply N fertilizer, farmers volunteered to take part in a citizen science study. The PROSOIL project used a “citizen science”, participatory approach to create farmer‐informed science, aiming to increase awareness of the importance of soil health. In 2014, over 300 farmers completed a “How do you manage your soil” survey. The survey included a question on the use of daffodils (Narcissus spp.) to indicate the best time to apply the first nitrogen fertilizer of the season, based on anecdotal feedback from farmers involved in the PROSOIL project. The survey recorded 7% of farmers based their first fertilizer application on when daffodils flowered. To increase farmer awareness of soil temperatures, we provided them with soil thermometers, held workshops and hosted interactive stands at agricultural events in 2014. In autumn 2014, farmers planted daffodil bulbs of the same variety, across Wales, and monitored soil temperatures. Farmers returned postcards once their daffodils were in flower, noting the soil temperature. An assessment of whether daffodil flowering date could indicate when to apply N fertilizer was made. Overall, in spring 2015, daffodils flowered when soil temperature was 6.4(±0.35)°C, suggesting daffodil flowering date is a more reliable indicator for fertilizer application, than first hypothesized. Findings show a scientific validation of local knowledge, regarding the use of daffodils to indicate the “not‐before” date for the first N fertilizer application.
Light‐induced stabilization of ACS contributes to hypocotyl elongation during the dark‐to‐light transition in Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Seo Dong Hye , Yoon Gyeong Mee
Published: February 2019

Hypocotyl growth during seedling emergence is a crucial developmental transition influenced by light and phytohormones such as ethylene. Ethylene and light antagonistically control hypocotyl growth in either continuous light or darkness. However, how ethylene and light regulate hypocotyl growth, including seedling emergence, during the dark‐to‐light transition remains elusive. Here, we show that ethylene and light cooperatively stimulate a transient increase in hypocotyl growth during the dark‐to‐light transition via the light‐mediated stabilization of 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) synthases (ACSs), the rate‐limiting enzymes in ethylene biosynthesis. We found that, in contrast to the known inhibitory role of light in hypocotyl growth, light treatment transiently increases hypocotyl growth in wild‐type etiolated seedlings. Moreover, ACC, the direct precursor of ethylene, accentuates the effects of light on hypocotyl elongation during the dark‐to‐light transition. We determined that light leads to the transient elongation of hypocotyls by stabilizing the ACS5 protein during the dark‐to‐light transition. Furthermore, biochemical analysis of an ACS5 mutant protein bearing an alteration in the C‐terminus indicated that light stabilizes ACS5 by inhibiting the degradation mechanism that acts through the C‐terminus of ACS5. Our study reveals that plants regulate hypocotyl elongation during seedling establishment by coordinating light‐induced ethylene biosynthesis at the post‐translational level. Moreover, the stimulatory role of light on hypocotyl growth during the dark‐to‐light transition provides additional insights into the known inhibitory role of light in hypocotyl development.
Spectral domain optical coherence tomography evaluation of the feline optic nerve and peripapillary retina
Authors: Espinheira Gomes Filipe , Parry Stephen , Ledbetter Eric
Published: February 2019

Objective

To describe and to establish normative data for the feline optic nerve and peripapillary retina using SD‐OCT (Spectralis® HRA+OCT2).

Methods

Slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and rebound tonometry were performed in seven male‐intact (0.65 ± 0.02 years;4.34 ± 0.33 kg) and seven female‐spayed (0.74 ± 0.03 years; 3.13 ± 0.28 kg) cats. All eyes were pharmacologically dilated with 1% tropicamide prior to indirect ophthalmoscopy examination. Animals were then placed under general anesthesia. Optic nerve and peripapillary retinal morphology was evaluated using SD‐OCT device by infrared imaging and volumetric scans (circle and radial). Optic disc area, optic cup depth, peripapillary retinal thickness (RT), and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) were measured. The RNFLT:RT ratio was calculated in the superior, nasal, temporal, and inferior peripapillary region.

Results

Intraocular pressure in all cats was 20.68 ± 4.87 mm Hg (mean ± SD). Mean RT and RNFL were thickest in the superior retina (264.7 ± 13.95 µm and 70.22 ± 11.78 µm, respectively) (P < 0.0001). Inferior RT was significantly thinner than nasal and temporal retina (P = 0.0013 and P = 0.0010, respectively). The RNFLT:RT was significantly higher in the superior retina (0.27 ± 0.04) (P < 0.0001). Optic disc area OU was 1.39 ± 0.26 mm2. Optic cup depth OU was 168.36 ± 67.74 µm. All parameters tested were not affected by gender, intraocular pressure, body weight, or tested eye. Most eyes had a Bergmeister papilla that was only visible on OCT. Some animals had a recessed area over the center of the ONH meniscus.

Conclusion

Normative peripapillary ONH OCT data have been introduced. A Bergmeister papillae is commonly seen in young cats on OCT examination. OCT is a helpful tool to evaluate the retina in cats.
Progress in multiple genetically modified minipigs for xenotransplantation in China
Authors: Pan Dengke , Liu Ting , Lei Tiantian , Zhu Huibin , Wang Yi , Deng Shaoping
Published: February 2019

Pig‐to‐human organ transplantation provides an alternative for critical shortage of human organs worldwide. Genetically modified pigs are promising donors for xenotransplantation as they show many anatomical and physiological similarities to humans. However, immunological rejection including hyperacute rejection (HAR), acute humoral xenograft rejection (AHXR), immune cell–mediated rejection, and other barriers associated with xenotransplantation must be overcome with various strategies for the genetic modification of pigs. In this review, we summarize the outcomes of genetically modified and cloned pigs achieved by Chinese scientists to resolve the above‐mentioned problems in xenotransplantation. It is now possible to knockout several porcine genes associated with the expression of sugar residues, antigens for (naturally) existing antibodies in humans, including GGTA1, CMAH, and β4GalNT2, and thereby preventing the antigen‐antibody response. Moreover, insertion of human complement‐ and coagulation‐regulatory transgenes, such as CD46, CD55, CD59, and hTBM, can further overcome effects of the humoral immune response and coagulation dysfunction, while expression of regulatory factors of immune responses can inhibit the adaptive immune rejection. Furthermore, transgenic strategies have been developed by Chinese scientists to reduce the potential risk of infections by endogenous porcine retroviruses (PERVs). Breeding of multi‐gene low‐immunogenicity pigs in China is also presented in this review. Lastly, we will briefly mention the preclinical studies on pig‐to‐non‐human primate xenotransplantation conducted in several centers in China.
Candida albicans
Biofilms Are Generally Devoid of Persister Cells
Authors: Denega Iryna , d’Enfert Christophe , Bachellier-Bassi Sophie
Published: February 2019

Candida albicans
is known for its ability to form biofilms, which are communities of microorganisms embedded in an extracellular matrix developing on different surfaces. Biofilms are highly tolerant to antifungal therapy.
Evaluation of Saliva as a Potential Alternative Sampling Matrix for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Levofloxacin in Patients with Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Ghimire Samiksha , Maharjan Bhagwan , Jongedijk Erwin M. , Kosterink Jos G. W. , Ghimire Gokarna R. , Touw Daan J. , van der Werf Tjip S. , Shrestha Bhabana , Alffenaar Jan-Willem C.
Published: February 2019

Saliva may be a useful alternative matrix for monitoring levofloxacin concentrations in multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients. The objectives of this study were (i) to evaluate the correlation between plasma and salivary levofloxacin (Lfx) concentrations in MDR-TB patients and (ii) to gauge the possibility of using saliva as an alternative sampling matrix for therapeutic drug monitoring of Lfx in areas where TB is endemic.
Gain- and Loss-of-Function Screens Coupled to Next-Generation Sequencing for Antibiotic Mode of Action and Resistance Studies in
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Gingras Hélène , Patron Kévin , Bhattacharya Arijit , Leprohon Philippe , Ouellette Marc
Published: February 2019

Two whole-genome screening approaches are described for studying the mode of action and the mechanisms of resistance to trimethoprim (TMP) in the Gram-positive
Streptococcus pneumoniae
. The gain-of-function approach (Int-Seq) relies on a genomic library of DNA fragments integrated into a fucose-inducible cassette.
Enzymatic and Structural Characterization of the
Naegleria fowleri
Glucokinase
Authors: Milanes Jillian E. , Suryadi Jimmy , Abendroth Jan , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Barrett Kayleigh F. , Dranow David M. , Phan Isabelle Q. , Patrick Stephen L. , Rozema Soren D. , Khalifa Muhammad M. , Golden Jennifer E. , Morris James C.
Published: February 2019

Infection with the free-living amoeba
Naegleria fowleri
leads to life-threatening primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. Efficacious treatment options for these infections are limited, and the mortality rate is very high (∼98%).
Reagent-Free Identification of Clinical Yeasts by Use of Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Lam Lisa M. T. , Dufresne Philippe J. , Longtin Jean , Sedman Jacqueline , Ismail Ashraf A.
Published: February 2019

Invasive fungal infections by opportunistic yeasts have increased concomitantly with the growth of an immunocompromised patient population. Misidentification of yeasts can lead to inappropriate antifungal treatment and complications.
PPAR-γ in Macrophages Limits Pulmonary Inflammation and Promotes Host Recovery following Respiratory Viral Infection
Authors: Huang Su , Zhu Bibo , Cheon In Su , Goplen Nick P. , Jiang Li , Zhang Ruixuan , Peebles R. Stokes , Mack Matthias , Kaplan Mark H. , Limper Andrew H. , Sun Jie
Published: February 2019

Respiratory viral infections, like IAV and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, impose great challenges to public health. Alveolar macrophages (AM) are lung-resident immune cells that play important roles in protecting the host against IAV and RSV infections. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms by which AM modulate host inflammation, disease development, and tissue recovery are not very well understood. Here we identify that PPAR-γ expression in AM is crucial to suppress pulmonary inflammation and diseases and to promote fast host recovery from IAV and RSV infections. Our data suggest that targeting macrophage PPAR-γ may be a promising therapeutic option in the future to suppress acute inflammation and simultaneously promote recovery from severe diseases associated with respiratory viral infections.
V1 and V2 Domains of HIV Envelope Contribute to CCR5 Antagonist Resistance
Authors: Wu Ellen , Du Yueqi , Gao Xiang , Zhang Jie , Martin John , Mitreva Makedonka , Ratner Lee
Published: February 2019

It is believed that each CCR5 antagonist-resistant isolate will develop its own unique set of mutations, making it difficult to identify a signature mutation that can effectively predict CCR5 antagonist resistance. This may explain why we do not observe shared mutations among clinical studies. The present study examined the earliest events in the development of drug resistance with viral quasispecies that continued the use of CCR5 for entry. Genotypic and phenotypic assays demonstrated a distinct role of the variable domain V1/V2 in competitive resistance to CCR5 antagonist therapy. Thus, future studies analyzing the development of clinical resistance should focus on the relationship between the V1/V2 and V3 domains.
Modeling Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Infections in Human Central Nervous System Neuronal Cells Using Two- and Three-Dimensional Cultures Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: D’Aiuto Leonardo , Bloom David C. , Naciri Jennifer N. , Smith Adam , Edwards Terri G. , McClain Lora , Callio Jason A. , Jessup Morgan , Wood Joel , Chowdari Kodavali , Demers Matthew , Abrahamson Eric E. , Ikonomovic Milos D. , Viggiano Luigi , De Zio Roberta , Watkins Simon , Kinchington Paul R. , Nimgaonkar Vishwajit L.
Published: February 2019

This study employed human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to model acute and latent HSV-1 infections in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) CNS neuronal cultures. We successfully established acute HSV-1 infections and infections showing features of latency. HSV-1 infection of the 3D organoids was able to spread from the outer surface of the organoid and was transported to the interior lamina, providing a model to study HSV-1 trafficking through complex neuronal tissue structures. HSV-1 could be reactivated in both culture systems; though, in contrast to 2D cultures, it appeared to be more difficult to reactivate HSV-1 in 3D cultures, potentially paralleling the low efficiency of HSV-1 reactivation in the CNS of animal models. The reactivation events were accompanied by dramatic neuronal morphological changes and cell-cell fusion. Together, our results provide substantive evidence of the suitability of hiPSC-based neuronal platforms to model HSV-1–CNS interactions in a human context.
Cardiolipin Alters
Rhodobacter sphaeroides
Cell Shape by Affecting Peptidoglycan Precursor Biosynthesis
Authors: Lin Ti-Yu , Gross William S. , Auer George K. , Weibel Douglas B.
Published: February 2019

The phospholipid composition of the cell membrane influences the spatial and temporal biochemistry of cells. We studied molecular mechanisms connecting membrane composition to cell morphology in the model bacterium
Rhodobacter sphaeroides
. The peptidoglycan (PG) layer of the cell wall is a dominant component of cell mechanical properties; consequently, it has been an important antibiotic target. We found that the anionic phospholipid cardiolipin (CL) plays a role in determination of the shape of
R. sphaeroides
cells by affecting PG precursor biosynthesis. Removing CL in
R. sphaeroides
alters cell morphology and increases its sensitivity to antibiotics targeting proteins synthesizing PG. These studies provide a connection to spatial biochemical control in mitochondria, which contain an inner membrane with topological features in common with
R. sphaeroides
.
Relationship between the Cervical Microbiome, HIV Status, and Precancerous Lesions
Authors: Klein Cameron , Gonzalez Daniela , Samwel Kandali , Kahesa Crispin , Mwaiselage Julius , Aluthge Nirosh , Fernando Samodha , West John T. , Wood Charles , Angeletti Peter C.
Published: February 2019

HPV is known to be the causal agent in the majority of cervical cancers. However, the role of the cervical bacterial microbiome in cervical cancer is not clear. To investigate that possibility, we collected cervical cytobrush samples from 144 Tanzanian women and performed deep sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA genes. We found that HIV-positive patients had greater bacterial richness (
P
= 0.01) than HIV-negative patients. We also observed that women with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) had greater cervical bacterial diversity than women with cytologically normal cervices. Data from our precise sampling of cervical lesions leads us to propose that
Mycoplasma
contributes to a cervical microbiome status that promotes HPV-related cervical lesions. These results suggest a greater influence of the bacterial microbiota on the outcome of HPV infection than previously thought.