bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of exotic guava (Psidium guajavaL.) invasion on soil properties in Limpopo, South Africa
Authors: Ruwanza Sheunesu , Dondofema Farai 
Published: July 2019

AbstractMany studies in South Africa have examined the impacts of alien plants on ecosystems, but none have assessed the impact of guava (Psidium guajavaL.) invasion on soil properties. In this study, soils underneath guava‐invaded sites were assessed to determine if they had different soil physico‐chemical properties (pH, P, C, N, Na, K, Ca, Mg, moisture, penetration resistance, infiltration and water repellency) as compared to soils underneath uninvaded sites. Comparisons were made from three different sites over three autumn months. Results show that soil pH was significantly (p < 0.005) higher underneath uninvaded than guava‐invaded sites. Soil P was three times higher underneath guava‐invaded as compared to invaded sites. The soils collected underneath guava‐invaded sites had a significantly (p < 0.001) higher moisture content and were less compact but more repellent than soils from the uninvaded sites. Infiltration rate was significantly (p < 0.001) higher in the uninvaded than the guava‐invaded sites. The study concludes that guava invasion alters some soil properties, thus creating favourable conditions for its growth and making it potentially more invasive. From a management standpoint, guava removal is encouraged; however, given guava's socio‐economic importance more research on cost and benefits is required.
Pharmacological inhibition of Hippo pathway, with the novel kinase inhibitor XMU‐MP‐1, protects the heart against adverse effects during pressure overload
Authors: Triastuti Efta , Nugroho Ardiansah Bayu , Zi Min , Prehar Sukhpal , Kohar Yulia Suciati , Bui Thuy Anh , Stafford Nicholas , Cartwright Elizabeth J. , Abraham Sabu , Oceandy Delvac 
Published: July 2019

Background and PurposeThe Hippo pathway has emerged as a potential therapeutic target to control pathological cardiac remodelling. The core components of the Hippo pathway, mammalian Ste‐20 like kinase 1 (Mst1) and mammalian Ste‐20 like kinase 2 (Mst2), modulate cardiac hypertrophy, apoptosis, and fibrosis. Here, we study the effects of pharmacological inhibition of Mst1/2 using a novel inhibitor XMU‐MP‐1 in controlling the adverse effects of pressure overload‐induced hypertrophy.Experimental ApproachWe used cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCM) and C57Bl/6 mice with transverse aortic constriction (TAC) as in vitro and in vivo models, respectively, to test the effects of XMU‐MP‐1 treatment. We used luciferase reporter assays, western blots and immunofluorescence assays in vitro, with echocardiography, qRT‐PCR and immunohistochemical methods in vivo.Key ResultsXMU‐MP‐1 treatment significantly increased activity of the Hippo pathway effector yes‐associated protein and inhibited phenylephrine‐induced hypertrophy in NRCM. XMU‐MP‐1 improved cardiomyocyte survival and reduced apoptosis following oxidative stress. In vivo, mice 3 weeks after TAC, were treated with XMU‐MP‐1 (1 mg·kg−1) every alternate day for 10 further days. XMU‐MP‐1‐treated mice showed better cardiac contractility than vehicle‐treated mice. Cardiomyocyte cross‐sectional size and expression of the hypertrophic marker, brain natriuretic peptide, were reduced in XMU‐MP‐1‐treated mice. Improved heart function in XMU‐MP‐1‐treated mice with TAC, was accompanied by fewer TUNEL positive cardiomyocytes and lower levels of fibrosis, suggesting inhibition of cardiomyocyte apoptosis and decreased fibrosis.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe Hippo pathway inhibitor, XMU‐MP‐1, reduced cellular hypertrophy and improved survival in cultured cardiomyocytes and, in vivo, preserved cardiac function following pressure overload.
The novel cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist AM11101 increases food intake in female rats
Authors: Ogden Sean B. , Malamas Michael S. , Makriyannis Alexandros , Eckel Lisa A. 
Published: July 2019

Background and PurposeΔ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) acts via cannabinoid CB1 receptors to increase feeding. Here, we assessed the orexigenic effect of AM11101, a novel CB1 receptor agonist designed to have a more favourable pharmacodynamic profile than THC.Experimental ApproachThe acute, orexigenic effects of AM11101 and THC were compared in female rats. Food intake and meal patterns were also examined following once daily treatment with AM11101 and THC for 7 days.Key ResultsAM11101 (0.01–0.1 mg·kg−1) increased food intake during the first hour following both acute and chronic treatments in pre‐fed and freely feeding animals. This orexigenic effect persisted for up to 4 hr, with no compensatory decrease in feeding during the subsequent 4–22 hr. THC (1 mg·kg−1) increased 1‐hr food intake in pre‐fed animals, but was less reliable than AM11101 in increasing 1‐hr food intake in freely feeding animals following both acute and chronic administration. The orexigenic effect of both compounds was due to an increase in meal size, not meal number.Conclusions and ImplicationsOur study provides the first demonstration that AM11101 increases short‐term food intake via a selective increase in meal size. AM11101 promotes a more reliable orexigenic effect than THC in freely feeding animals, with no subsequent compensatory decrease in feeding. AM11101 may offer a greater efficacy than THC and its congeners in stimulating food intake in underweight clinical populations.
‘Actually There is a Brain in There’: Uncovering Complexity in Pathways Through Education for Young Adults Who Have Been in Care
Authors: Hanrahan Fidelma , Boddy Janet , Owen Charlie 
Published: July 2019

Internationally, research has highlighted disruption to the educational trajectories of young people in care, documenting concern about upheaval and poor educational outcomes. We present findings from English data arising from qualitative longitudinal research with care experienced people (16–32 years) who were also in education, employment or training. The analysis extends understanding of the experiences of those who achieve educational ‘success’, including those who followed non‐linear trajectories. The need for a flexible education system, and leaving care entitlements, which take into account the disruption experienced by young people in care and the consequent possibility of delayed educational pathways, is discussed.
Ex situ collections and their potential for the restoration of extinct plants
Authors: Abeli Thomas , Dalrymple Sarah , Godefroid Sandrine , Mondoni Andrea , Müller Jonas V. , Rossi Graziano , Orsenigo Simone 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThe alarming current and predicted species extinction rates have galvanized conservationists in their efforts to avoid future biodiversity losses, but for species extinct in the wild, few options exist. We posed the questions, can these species be restored, and, if so, what role can ex situ plant collections (i.e., botanic gardens, germplasm banks, herbaria) play in the recovery of plant genetic diversity? We reviewed the relevant literature to assess the feasibility of recovering lost plant genetic diversity with using ex situ material and the probability of survival of subsequent translocations. Thirteen attempts to recover species extinct in the wild were found, most of which used material preserved in botanic gardens (12) and seed banks (2). One case of a locally extirpated population was recovered from herbarium material. Eight (60%) of these cases were successful or partially successful translocations of the focal species or population; the other 5 failed or it was too early to determine the outcome. Limiting factors of the use of ex situ source material for the restoration of plant genetic diversity in the wild include the scarcity of source material, low viability and reduced longevity of the material, low genetic variation, lack of evolution (especially for material stored in germplasm banks and herbaria), and socioeconomic factors. However, modern collecting practices present opportunities for plant conservation, such as improved collecting protocols and improved cultivation and storage conditions. Our findings suggest that all types of ex situ collections may contribute effectively to plant species conservation if their use is informed by a thorough understanding of the aforementioned problems. We conclude that the recovery of plant species currently classified as extinct in the wild is not 100% successful, and the possibility of successful reintroduction should not be used to justify insufficient in situ conservation.
The Controllability Hypothesis: Near‐miss effect points to common neurological machinery in posterior parietal cortex for controllable objects and concepts
Authors: Kruse Imogen 
Published: July 2019

AbstractIn this paper, I postulate that the processing of concepts which are deemed controllable is rooted in neurological machinery located in the posterior parietal cortex specialised for the processing of objects which are immediately actionable because they are within reach. This is demonstrated with reference to the near‐miss effect in gambling behaviour, where it is argued that the configurative proximity of the near‐miss outcome to the win outcome creates the impression that the win outcome is ‘almost within reach’ or controllable. The perceived realisability of the desired outcome increases subjective reward probability and the associated expected action value, which impacts decision‐making and behaviour. When extended to substance addiction, this novel hypothesis adds fresh insight into understanding the motivational effects associated with cue exposure and opportunity for drug‐taking. Moreover, by postulating that a perception of control can be generated to minimise unpleasant affective states, it can also reconcile contrasting models of decision‐making and provide a neurological explanation for the efficacy of mindfulness‐based techniques in treating addictions. With reference to the previously hypothesised link between the self and control, these ideas can provide an explanation for the increased subjective value of self‐associated concepts in the ‘endowment effect’, as well as a neurological correlate for the concept of the ‘narrative self’. This paper therefore provides an innovative and unifying perspective for the study and treatment of behavioural and substance addictions as well as contributing to our neurological understanding of philosophical approaches to the self.
The pharmacokinetics of oral carbamazepine in rats dosed using an automated drug delivery system
Authors: Hill A. Cameron , Rower Joseph E. , White H. Steve 
Published: July 2019

AbstractObjectivePharmacokinetics (PK) of antiseizure drugs differ considerably between rats and humans. Rodents require larger and more frequent doses to maintain therapeutic drug levels. This study uses the antiseizure drug (ASD) carbamazepine (CBZ) to validate the application of a previously described automated drug delivery system for delivering chronic oral medication to rats.MethodsTreatment‐naive, male Sprague‐Dawley rats were treated with oral CBZ, 75 mg/kg every 6 hours for 10 days, via the automated feeder. Blood samples were collected on day 0 (acute), day 2 (steady‐state), and day 9 (chronic) and used to measure plasma CBZ and carbamazepine‐10,11‐epoxide (CBZ‐E) concentrations via high‐performance liquid chromatography. The PK of CBZ and CBZ‐E were modeled using Monolix v2018R1. The acute and chronic tolerability of CBZ was evaluated using the open field test.ResultsCBZ and CBZ‐E concentrations were best described by a one‐compartment parent‐metabolite model with first‐order absorption and elimination kinetics. Observed and predicted CBZ concentrations were maintained within the therapeutic window (4‐12 μg/mL) for the duration of the study. There was no change in open‐field test activity following acute or chronic oral dosing of 75 mg/kg CBZ compared to a pretreatment baseline (P > 0.4).SignificanceOral administration of CBZ dosed q.i.d. in rats using an automated drug delivery system results in therapeutic concentrations of CBZ and its active metabolite. This study represents the first PK validation for this previously described preclinical drug delivery system.
Identification of two dihydrodipicolinate synthase isoforms from Pseudomonas aeruginosa that differ in allosteric regulation
Authors: Impey Rachael E. , Panjikar Santosh , Hall Cody J. , Bock Lucy J. , Sutton J. Mark , Perugini Matthew A. , Soares da Costa Tatiana P. 
Published: July 2019

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the leading causes of nosocomial infections, accounting for 10% of all hospital‐acquired infections. Current antibiotics against P. aeruginosa are becoming increasingly ineffective due to the exponential rise in drug resistance. Thus, there is an urgent need to validate and characterize novel drug targets to guide the development of new classes of antibiotics against this pathogen. One such target is the diaminopimelate (DAP) pathway, which is responsible for the biosynthesis of bacterial cell wall and protein building blocks, namely meso‐DAP and lysine. The rate‐limiting step of this pathway is catalysed by the enzyme dihydrodipicolinate synthase (DHDPS), typically encoded for in bacteria by a single dapA gene. Here, we show that P. aeruginosa encodes two functional DHDPS enzymes, PaDHDPS1 and PaDHDPS2. Although these isoforms have similar catalytic activities (kcat = 29 s−1 and 44 s−1 for PaDHDPS1 and PaDHDPS2, respectively), they are differentially allosterically regulated by lysine, with only PaDHDPS2 showing inhibition by the end product of the DAP pathway (IC50 = 130 μm). The differences in allostery are attributed to a single amino acid difference in the allosteric binding pocket at position 56. This is the first example of a bacterium that contains multiple bona fide DHDPS enzymes, which differ in allosteric regulation. We speculate that the presence of the two isoforms allows an increase in the metabolic flux through the DAP pathway when required in this clinically important pathogen.DatabasesPDB ID: 6P90.
Salvage of exhausted neck access using a novel inside‐out device in dialysis‐dependent patients
Authors: Quek Lawrence Han Hwee , Tan Tracy Suet Mun , Tan Glenn Wei Leong , Pua Uei 
Published: July 2019

AbstractChronic central venous occlusion represents a challenge for upper body central dialysis access for both surgical and endovascular interventions. The Surfacer (Surfacer Inside‐Out Access Catheter System) is a novel technique that offers a device‐based solution over various physician‐modified techniques in salvaging exhausted right‐sided neck veins for catheter placement. We report a retrospective series of four cases in which this system is used to gain upper body venous access from a single center in Singapore. This report seeks to integrate the understanding of the technical aspects of a new inside‐out device and its utility in recanalization of occluded right‐sided neck veins as it relates to Asian patients.
CGRP and Brain Functioning: Cautions for Migraine Treatment
Authors: Borkum Jonathan M. 
Published: July 2019

BackgroundCalcitonin gene‐related peptide has emerged as a therapeutic target in migraine. Monoclonal antibodies and small molecule receptor antagonists (gepants) directed against CGRP have been approved or are in Phase II or III clinical trials. For monitoring the long‐term safety of these drugs, it is helpful to consider the role of CGRP in brain functioning.MethodsQualitative review of the preclinical literature on CGRP in brain physiology and pathophysiology.ResultsWithin the brain, CGRP is upregulated by stresses such as ischemia, injury, hyperthermia, and seizure, and activates neuroprotective processes. Thus, CGRP buffers intracellular calcium, triggers antiapoptotic signaling, upregulates a number of neurotrophins (including insulin‐like growth factor‐1/IGF‐1, basic fibroblast growth factor/bFGF, and nerve growth factor/NGF), reduces brain edema, and likely increases antioxidant defenses. When released outside the blood‐brain barrier, CGRP likely protects the endothelium, upregulates growth factor signaling from the endothelium to the brain parenchyma, strengthens the blood‐brain barrier, protects the immune privilege of the brain by inhibiting the movement of neutrophils and monocytes, and facilitates neurogenesis and angiogenesis at stem cell niches.ConclusionsCGRP participates in a wide range of neuroprotective processes. In theory, migraineurs with comorbid brain pathology might be at increased risk from CGRP inhibition. However, the extent of compensating processes is unknown and will determine whether these risks materialize in practice.
Aerobic industrial processing of Empeltre cv. natural black olives and product characterisation
Authors: Medina Eduardo , García‐García Pedro , Romero Concepción , de Castro Antonio , Brenes Manuel 
Published: July 2019

SummaryThe fermentation of natural black olives is currently carried out under anaerobic conditions. This work investigates the aerobic fermentation of this product in tanks containing 16 000 kg of Empeltre olives during two seasons. The microorganisms in brines were yeasts in all cases, whereas lactic acid bacteria growth was only observed in some tanks. Consequently, the pH during fermentation was in most cases higher than recommended 4.3 units. However, the Empeltre olive brines displayed bactericidal effect against Salmonella enterica, Sthapylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes, with a 5 log population drop in one or 24 h depending on the brine age so that these olive brines are a harsh environment for the growth of these pathogens. It was found HyEDA as the major phenolic compound in both brine and olive pulp at the beginning of fermentation that slowly hydrolysed into hydroxytyrosol that reached a concentration up to 1500 mg kg−1.
Effect of micronised oat bran by ultrafine grinding on dietary fibre, texture and rheological characteristic of soft cheese
Authors: Xue Xiuheng , Wang Juhua , Li Shaohua , Zhang Xiuxiu , Dong Jinhua , Gui Lin , Chang Qianqian 
Published: July 2019

SummaryThe purpose of this research was to study the effect of micronised oat bran on dietary fibre, textural and rheological of soft cheese. The soft cheese was processed by using the different particle size oat bran as fibre supplement, and its dietary fibre content, rheological and textural properties were determined. The results show that the micronised oat bran with 5–30 μm particle size was prepared by ultrafine grinding and passed through 60–400 mesh sieves. The soluble dietary fibre content in micronised oat bran soft cheeses was higher than that of the control (untreated oat bran soft cheeses; P < 0.05), with a maximum of 2.65 g per 100 g cheeses when oat bran was ultrafine crushed and passed through 300 mesh sieves, while the content of insoluble dietary fibre was lower than that of the control (P < 0.05). The micronised oat bran soft cheese in fermentation is a typical non‐newtonian fluid. G′, G″ and apparent viscosity of soft cheeses were increased with the reduction of oat bran particle size. The chewiness and springiness of micronised soft cheeses were increased with the reduction of oat bran particle size, and were higher than that of the control (P < 0.05). The hardness and cohesiveness of micronised soft cheese were decreased with the reduction of oat bran particle size, the hardness was lower, but the cohesiveness of micronised soft cheese was higher than that of the control (P < 0.05). The 1% micronised oat bran can obtain better processing characteristics and overall acceptability for cheese products.
Secondary traumatic stress among emergency nurses: Prevalence, predictors, and consequences
Authors: Ratrout Hamza Fathi , Hamdan‐Mansour Ayman M. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractBackgroundNurses working in emergency units are in direct contact with traumatic events. Trauma effects do not solely affect patients and their caregivers and, rather, extend to secondarily influence nurses themselves. Secondary exposure to trauma may result in symptoms similar to symptoms experienced by the patient themselves. No previous study investigated the secondary traumatic stress among emergency nurses in Jordan.PurposeTo identify prevalence, predictors, and consequences of secondary traumatic stress among nurses working in emergency departments.MethodA descriptive correlation design was utilized to collect data using self‐report questionnaires from 202 nurses working at eight emergency departments in Jordan.FindingsThe study revealed that almost half of the sample reported high to severe levels of secondary traumatic stress. The analyses showed that nurses who demonstrated lower empathy (P = .016) and greater coping capacity (P < .001) tended to develop more secondary traumatic stress. Organizational factors were not significant predictors of secondary traumatic stress.ConclusionA significant proportion of emergency nurses suffer secondary traumatic stress that is found also to be associated with psychical factors. Emergency nurses need to consider the consequences of secondary traumatic stress on their health and quality of care provided.
Economic policy uncertainty and stock market liquidity: Evidence from G7 countries
Authors: Dash Saumya Ranjan , Maitra Debasish , Debata Byomakesh , Mahakud Jitendra 
Published: July 2019

AbstractIn the aftermath of the 2007–2008 global financial crisis, there were heightened concerns among the market participants and policymakers on the potential adverse effects of economic policies on stock market liquidity. This paper examines the causality and co‐movement between economic policy uncertainties and stock market liquidity using monthly data from G7 countries. Our empirical analysis considers wavelet coherence and wavelet phase angle tests. Linear and nonlinear causality test results suggest that a causal relationship exists between economic policy uncertainty and stock market liquidity. Moreover, stock market illiquidity varies with the uncertainty but in the same direction while liquidity co‐moves in the opposite direction. In times of economic turmoil or crises, the relationship between policy uncertainty and illiquidity becomes stronger, and illiquidity leads economic policy uncertainty. Overall, our findings indicate that the leading indicator property of (il)liquidity is useful for providing economic information and thereby to manage market conditions and investor expectations.